AAH (All About Horsham) October 2019

OCTOBER 2019

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 ADVERTISING: advertising@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 PHOTOGRAPHY: TOBY PHILLIPS tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk info@tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk 07968 795625

IN THIS

EDITION We have our great News Round-up, including details of the main fireworks events, and photos from Horsham AmeriCARna. We also try Horsham Serpent Gin!

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.

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 October 2019 cover features Liam Wakefield, a singer/songwriter from Southwater.

Liam is pictured with his Epiphone guitar outside of Blueleaf Care on the Oakhurst Business Estate.

The logo’s a hindrance, but Liam’s eyes just sneak through between the lines!

This is a location Toby has used before, as the reflective windows offer an interesting effect. We photographed filmmaker Tristan Loraine here in 2016.

Other cover contenders include Bruce Jordan at Big Plant Nursery and Geri Williams, who is interviewed for the My Story feature.

DOOR TO DOOR DISTRIBUTION Horsham: Jacquie Paterson, Dominic Goddard, Eshan Wakefield, The Judd family, The Rolling family, George Voisey, Mattie Boys, Katie Drysdale, George Williams, Sam Lucas, Hazel Garner, Sam Uphill, Jill Shuker, Owen Bloomfield, The Arliss family, Charlotte Wellbelove, Harry Conning, The Gavira 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) Tanneka Scadding-Hunt (Partridge Green), Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale); The Palmer family & Amy Butler (BBH) James Hobbs (Thakeham), Tom Matthews (Storrington) PICK UP POINTS 4,000 more copies are available at businesses, clubs, organisations and community centres across the district.

AAH STANDS 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, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee (Lower Beeding) 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 Just a thanks to Toby Phillips Photography.

Toby was taking photos for Horsham District Council at AmeriCARna all day on Sunday 30 September. But he stayed up until very late to provide photos for AAH as our deadline was 9am on Monday!

Geri Williams, who performed in Blackpool alongside leading variety acts inthe 1950s, tells her story, whilst the One to Watch feature is on singer and guitarist Liam Wakefield

Callum Budd talks about his love of playing Cerebral Palsy football. Big Plant Nursery in Ashington celebrates its 20th year, while people are swarming to join Central Sussex Beekeeping Association

A new book produced for the Horsham District Year of Culture lists 100 objects important to our heritage and history. Jim Stoner, who grew up in Ashington, completes a remarkable trip around Australia.

Ben Morris (Editor) and Toby Phillips (Photographer) enjoy a morning with the Central Sussex Beekeeping Association.

Email your thoughts on Ben’s column or on any AAH feature to: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Notes from the Editor

Is Citizen Kane any better than Transformers?

September 2019 saw the publication of the 100th edition of AAH Magazine.

I thought about making a song and dance of it. Maybe picking a ‘Top 10 Covers’ or ‘100 Favourite Photos’. But then I remembered that few things annoy me like a ‘Best of’ list.

Some come close - fast track queuing at theme parks, Prince Andrew, monster truck shows, football commentators who say: “he should have scored!”

But as a journalist, I’ve long found such lists to be a self-important promotion of personal tastes during a slow news week. I was reminded of this when The Guardian oddly chose September 2019 as the ideal time to announce its ‘100 Best Films of the 21st Century.’ It quickly repeated the formula for books, television, theatre and art.

Unfortunately, I can’t help but click on the link and scroll through, which is the point, of course. But I don’t think these lists are ever an honest reflection of the things that people truly enjoy.

I’m sure if you were to consider the movies that moved you the most, or the songs that have provided the soundtrack to your life, the majority would be unlikely to feature in any such poll. And nobody should tell you that Revolver by The Beatles or Orson Welles’ film Citizen Kane is better!

It is for similar reasons that AAH has never run any kind of awards. You know the sort - hosted by a regional news presenter at a three star hotel, judged on which entrant stayed up all night filling in vote slips, yet still described as “prestigious” and “glittering” in the paper.

Honestly, if Elton John isn’t hosting an after party, it’s not glittering.

Bearing all this in mind, I didn’t exactly jump for joy when I heard about a new book celebrating the heritage of the Horsham District in 100 objects. It’s been funded by the Horsham District Year of Culture and edited

by Horsham Museum. Fortunately, it doesn’t ‘rank’ objects, as they are instead divided into sections. So, some relate to ancient history, while others may highlight sporting endeavour.

The list was compiled after contributions from museums and history groups across the district. There are some things you would expect to be included, like Knepp Castle, Shipley Smock Mill and the dinosaur fossils found at a Rudgwick brickwork site. They’d be like The Godfather and Jaws. You just can’t leave them out! Then, there are a few quirky inclusions, like the Vamp Horn at Ashurst Church and the mummified cat found behind a bricked-up chimney in Southwater. They’d be more divisive inclusions, like Pulp Fiction or The Royal Tenenbaums.

In this instance, Horsham Museum isn’t claiming to have produced a definitive list of the district’s ‘best’ 100 objects. It’s just listing some of the fascinating things that have survived and makes for interesting reading.

But like any poll, it did make me wonder what I would select. If it were solely up to me...

Maybe the mud slide in St Leonard’s Forest where I played with friends after school. Or a skittle from the bowling lanes at the St Leonard’s Arms, where I would meet my friends for a few pints and a game of bowls or ‘killer’ pool. Or perhaps my membership card from Horsham Youth Club, where hundreds of teenagers would flock for Friday night’s disco.

When I saw the book’s inclusion of the murals at St Botolph’s Church, I thought about Piccolo’s Italian restaurant. Aside from The River Kwai, it was once just about the only option for a fancy meal out in town. It had a mural of a naked child sat under a vine, with grapes in his hair, leaning on a barrel of wine.

It always made me laugh that this little place had tried to recreate the Sistine Chapel on West Street.

By the way, I found Citizen Kane hard going.

As a child of the eighties, I prefer Welles’ work as the voice of Unicron in the Transformers cartoon.

It’s all subjective...

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News & Events Image from Horsham Sports Club fireworks night in 2011 (AAH/Toby Phillips)

Send to: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Horsham Sports Club hosts its 10th annual firework display on Saturday 26 October.

As well as the display and fire show by Aurora Fireworks, there’s vintage fairground rides including chair-o-planes, food stalls and a beer tent. Local band Strobe will perform live after the display. Gates open at 5pm with fireworks at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 (£12 on the gate/Under 5s free) from Horsham Sports Club, Cricketfield Road, Horsham or www.eventbrite.co.uk

The world premiere of Everybody Flies, a documentary by Fact Not Fiction Films, was held at the Vue Cinema in Leicester Square, London on 24 September.

Everybody Flies discloses never-beforeseen documentation, scientific findings and personal accounts relating to cabin air on aeroplanes. For 18 years, Tristan Loraine founder of the Horsham-based film company and a former pilot - has been gathering evidence and testimonies to highlight dangerous cabin toxins. The premiere was part of the Raindance Film Festival. www.everybodyflies.com

The Holbrook Club hosts a fireworks night on Friday 1 November. There will be a bouncy castle, children’s rides, candy floss, BBQ, bar and special guest Tomfoolery.

Doors open at 5pm, display at 7.30pm. A family ticket costs £15 (members £11). www.theholbrookclub.co.uk Ashington CE School’s hosts a fireworks extravaganza on Friday 8 November.

Fireworks by Aurora with amusements, BBQ, raffle and stalls. Gates open at 5.30pm,

Kiki Dee and Carmelo Luggeri perform at The Rec Rooms, Horsham on Friday 22 November.

The first European female artist to be signed to The Motown label, Kiki Dee had solo hits with ‘Amoureuse’ and ‘I Got The Music In Me’. However, she is best known for her chart topping hit, ‘Don’t Go Breaking My Heart’ with Elton John, which reached No.1 in the UK and the USA. Kiki has released three studio albums with guitarist and producer Carmelo Luggeri and the duo have toured extensively together.

Tickets £15 from https://therecrooms.com

fireworks at 7pm. Tickets on the night £3.50 (£12 family of four).

Horsham Rugby Club on Hammerpond Road, hosts its bonfire and fireworks night on Saturday 2 November. There will also be a hog roast, bar, fairground rides, music and stalls. Gates open at 5pm, with the display at 8pm. Tickets £8 in advance (£10 on the door) or £30 for a family of five. Available at the club or from www.eventbrite.co.uk

Children’s author Julia Donaldson presents The Gruffalo, The Witch and the Warthog at The Capitol on Monday 28 - Tuesday 29 October.

A cast of five, including Julia and her guitarplaying husband Malcolm, bring some of her best known stories to life with sons, puppetry and a touch of magic. The show, part of Horsham District Year of Culture 2019, features Room on the Broom, The Magic Paintbrush, The Ugly Five, Superworm, The Gruffalo and The Cook and the King. Suitable for children aged 4-10. Tickets £15 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Image from the Design and Access Document produced by Bohunt.

The sports fields will be to the right of the Bush Craft zone

Shipley Arts Festival presents Malcolm Singer’s Dragons at St Mary’s Church, Causeway, Horsham on Thursday 21 November, at 7pm.

The event involves a choir of children from schools including The Weald, Millais, Windlesham House, Leechpool, Greenway and Great Ballard performing alongside a string orchestra from The Yehudi Menuhin School and the String Academy.

Together, they breathe fiery life into a dragon-themed concert, set to the poems of Nick Toczek and music composed and conducted by Malcolm Singer. Songs include ‘The Dragon Who Ate Our School’, ‘Speaking Dragonese’ and ‘The Child Who Pretended To Be A Dragon.’

Tickets £15 (reduced price tickets will be available through schools to the family of those participating) from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Horsham District has announced that planning application has been submitted for the new Bohunt School at the North of Horsham development site.

Outline permission was granted for the development of the site in 2018, which included education facilities. But with building work yet to begin, plans for the school have been brought forward by the Department of Education, in consultation with Legal and General, who are the applicants for the whole site.

Bohunt School will provide a nursery for 50

pupils, a primary school for 420 pupils (including reception) and a secondary school for 1200 pupils. It will include a sports building, multi-use games areas and sports pitches. Work will start this winter.

Currently, Bohunt are occupying temporary accommodation at Hurst Road, Horsham.

It is anticipated that pupils will move into their new accommodation in September 2021. For more details, visit the Planning section of HDC’s website and search for application number DC/19/1730.

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The Downs Link is now a popular cycling and hiking path

High Noon by Edith Pargh Barton

The English Regional Transport Association (ERTA) held a public meeting in Horsham on 7 September and discussed the re-opening of the Downs Link railway line.

Those present at the meeting of the Transport Think Tank, chaired

by Steve Borrill (Sussex and Surrey ERTA Area Chairman), were supportive of the idea of rebuilding the rail link between Guildford, Horsham and Shoreham-by-Sea. Te line was closed in the 1960s as part of the Beeching Axe, but most of it

remains as a footpath and bridleway. Sussex and Surrey ERTA will now draw up a Strategic Plan and the group seeks volunteers to help them compile a case. A spokesman said: “People are concerned that much development is going ahead with minimal regard to infrastructure. We need Westminster to support a rolling programme of railway reopenings and rebuilds.”

To contact the local branch, call (01403) 750809 or email michaellcockerill@gmail.com

CONTEMPORARY

ART FAIR 2019 OCTOBER 19/20 at PARKSIDE COUNCIL OFFICES

The Bridge Leisure Centre in Broadbridge Heath is offering the chance for people to find out more about community groups with a special event on Thursday 10 October, 10am -1pm. Groups including Healthwatch West Sussex, Age UK Horsham, Alzheimer’s Society, Diabetes UK, Horsham Matters, St Catherine’s Hospice, Southern Water, NHS Horsham and Mid Sussex CCG, and HDC’s Horsham Health & Wellbeing Team will be on hand with advice and information. For details, call (01403) 211311.

Paul Zerdin's Puppet Party comes to The Capitol on Friday 22 November. This new show stars old favourites Sam, Albert and Baby, along with a new bodyguard, an urban fox and a talking ice cream, all using a mixture of master puppeteering, animatronic wizardry and edgy comedy.

A chance to see the winner of America’s Got Talent and one of Britain’s finest entertainers.

Tickets £21 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Work has begun on a 21-acre commercial hub in Billingshurst, which will include a Euro Garages petrol station and a drivethrough

coffee unit. Dunmoore, a real estate investment and development company, will construct a 200,000 sq ft industrial and trade hub on a greenfield site south of New Road. The site is north of a 500-home residential development currently under construction.

Completion of the first phase is expected by July 2020. https://dunmoore.co.uk

48 ARTISTS, SCULPTORS, CREATORS AND MAKERS SHOWING AND SELLING THEIR WORK OVER ONE SPECIAL WEEKEND DEMONSTRATIONS by a selection of artists participating in the Art Fair will run throughout both days A limited number of COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS (Normal price £2 per adult on the door, children under 18 free) are available through the HAOS website

horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk HorshamArtistsOpenStudios @HorshamArtists #horshamartistsopenstudios

A temporary exhibition at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery features outstanding art by some of the masters of 20th century Scottish art.

The exhibition showcases the private collection of a local art enthusiast. It includes work by four of the great Scottish colourists: William Cadell’s Marble Quarry, Iona, John Duncan Fergusson’s Rue St Jacques, George Leslie Hunter’s Still Life with Flowers and Fruit and Samuel John Peploe’s Kirdcudbright Castle. Paintings by

Anne Redpath, Sir Robin Philipson, Chris Bushe, Sir William MacTaggart and John Houston complement the works.

This is an opportunity to see paintings not seen in public since they were sold.

The exhibition, A Collector’s Passion, also includes a watercolour by Archie Sutter Watt. It was the first piece of art bought by the collector more than 60 years ago, after he won an art prize at secondary school.

The exhibition is open until 26 October. www.horshammuseum.org

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John Houston: Road to the Sea David McClure: Death and the Japanese Maiden

Horsham Museum & Art Gallery is again hosting an exhibition of work

by Steyning artist Sarah Duffield.

It includes four commissioned pieces, depicting Chesworth Farm, Knepp Estate, Beeding Hill and the River Arun, made for the Horsham District Year of Culture 2019. Sarah will be at the museum on Saturday 5 October, at 12-5pm, to chat and answer questions.

The exhibition, entitled Colourful Places, runs until 14 December. www.sduffieldart.co.uk

Anne Redpath: Madonna Saint Nicole

A mother and daughter have published their first book, Secret Super Sister, inspired by their real-life experiences.

Sophie Rice, who lives in Southwater, suffered an epileptic seizure when her daughter was five-months-old and relied on the support of her mum, Teresa Kiernan. The time they spent together led to them writing a picture book, which inspires young people to focus on positives when life presents tough challenges. Secret Super Sister, published by Olympia, is available on Amazon.

Photo: Camilla Adams

Art by HAOS members Heather Irvine, Angela Brittain and Greta Meeten

Horsham Artists Open Studios (HAOS) group holds its annual Art Fair at the Horsham District Council offices at Parkside, Horsham, on the weekend of 19-20 October.

Last year, more than 2,000 people attended and enjoyed work by more than 60 artists, sculptors, textile designers, jewellers, up-cyclers and other makers. All work is for sale, with prices ranging from a few pounds to several thousands for large, original work. It’s a great place for Christmas present hunters and serious collectors alike. As a preview to the show and in celebration of Horsham District Year of Culture 2019, The Capitol is hosting a free exhibition, featuring a selection of work by over 40 HAOS members. The current exhibition runs until 27 October. www.horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens in Lower Beeding hosts Tree and Wood on Thursday 24 October - Saturday 2 November.

Set in the forest as darkness falls, audiences can take a journey into the trees for a lively montage of images, sound, light and song. Tree and Wood reflects the many aspects of our cultural relationship to working with wood.

It’s a tough one to describe, so it’s worth watching the video on the ‘Events’ page on Leonardslee’s website to see if it’s your cup of tea. Performances are held twice a day (6.30pm and 8pm most days) and last for one hour.

Tickets £15. As this is a Horsham District Year of Culture event, tickets can be purchased from The Capitol on (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com Horsham Writers Circle presents a screening of the 1957 film Campbell’s Kingdom on Tuesday 15 October, at 7pm.

The film is based on a novel by Horsham author, Hammond Innes and stars Dirk Bogarde, as well as some of the most famous British film actors of the 1950s. Innes features as the Writers Circle’s Literary Figure of the Month in October.

Tickets £6 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com For more on Horsham Writers Circle visit www.horshamwriters.co.uk

Photo: Toby Phillips Photography

Vernon Kay with the Grizzly’s Male Hair Salon team and Rachel Gould from Modern Barber Magazine

Grizzly’s Male Hair Salon in Freshwater Parade, Bishopric, Horsham was named Male Grooming/Barbershop of the Year at HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2019.

Director Chris O’Sullivan received the award from Vernon Kay at a ceremony in London, which attracted peers and influencers from across the industry.

Judges considered business growth and marketing as well as the salon’s design.

Chris said: “To win two years after opening, is an amazing achievement and testament to the hard work of the team.� https://grizzlysmalehairsalon.co.uk

Horsham’s Big and Little Nibble was held over the weekend of 31 August and 1 September.

The annual food and drink celebration is organised by Horsham District Council, Horsham Markets and partners, and sponsored by NFU Mutual Henfield.

The Live Cookery Theatre featured some of the best local chefs, while an eclectic mix of producers, street food, author presentations, singing chef Jon Nulty and Little Notes’ Little Nibble Fruit and Vegetable Band kept the crowd entertained throughout.

Crates Local and Cabin Pressure Spiritss

Horsham’s branches of John Lewis and Waitrose have added their name to the list of outlets to have signed up to help support rough sleepers.

Horsham District Council’s Homeless Team launched an initiative in partnership with Horsham Matters and Greater Change to help combat homelessness, offering a cashless scheme so that people can donate to the homeless more effectively.

Other outlets who have signed up to the donation scheme include The Capitol and Crates.

launched its Horsham Serpent Gin and The Horsham Cellar celebrated its first anniversary with an insight into Spanish Vermouth. The Horsham Veganfest marquee presented plant-based food options, whilst Kinder Living Horsham brought along a Smoothie Bike! www.horshamfoodies.co.uk

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Horsham FCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream of FA Cup glory is over for another season, after they lost 2-0 to Conference South side Dartford in the 2nd Qualifying Round.

More than 900 fans packed into the Camping World Community Stadium, but the Hornets couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t convert good chances that fell their way. The stand-out name on Dartfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team sheet was that of Charlie Sheringham, son of former Manchester United and England forward, Teddy.

Horsham have made an encouraging start to their league campaign. As AAH went to press, the team was sitting 5th after seven games in the Isthmian Premier Division. www.horshamfc.co.uk Horsham Hawks Basketball Club is appealing for new players. The Hawks are a community based club with Junior and Ladies teams,. It is currently seeking new players, aged 9-11, for a Mini-Ballers team. Trial sessions are held at The Bridge Leisure Centre, Broadbridge Heath, every Wednesday from 6.30 7.30pm. For more details email gianluca@horshamhawks.co.uk or visit www.horshamhawks.co.uk

Chris Adams opens the new pavilion (Photo: Ben Morris)

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Photo: John Lines

Nuthurst Cricket Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new pavilion was officially declared open on Saturday 14 September.

During a celebratory event on The Common, Mannings Heath, residents and club members were joined by guests including Horsham MP Jeremy Quin and England cricketer Chris Adams, who performed the ribbon cutting.

Nuthurst Juniors enjoyed a fun cricket session, organised by Carl Tupper of Sussex Cricket Club, before the adults took to The Common. Club Chairman Kevin Barnes said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wonderful to see all the plans weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working on finally come to fruition. The pavilion is already being put to use and will be enjoyed by future generations of players and our community.â&#x20AC;?

The club has worked tirelessly to raise funds for the pavilion, which seats 50 people and has a modern kitchen so it can be used by local groups, as well as Nuthurst Cricket Club. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Nuttersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; received generous grants, including a Biffa Award and support from Sport England, to fund the project.

Other donations came from local individuals, as well as the Gatwick Airport Community Trust, Peter Harrison Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund.

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Enjoy a night of song and dance as The FB Pocket Orchestra return to St Mary’s House, Bramber, to play in the beautiful Victorian Music Room on Saturday 2 November, at 7.30pm. Talented musicians Jenny Russell (contralto/clarinet), Paul Stevenson (banjo) and Oliver Corbin (cornet/ euphonium/tuba/accordion) present a contemporary slant on popular music from the 19th and early 20th century. Tickets £27.50 (with wine and canapés) from www.stmarysbramber.co.uk For more than 25 years, the Olive Tree Cancer Support Centre, located in Crawley Hospital, has been providing support services to people affected by cancer. In order to reach more patients and their families, the Olive Tree has opened an Information Hub at Horsham Hospital.

The hub provides a central point to access information about cancer services. It is staffed by support worker Harpinder Bilkhu, who is assisted by an administrator and volunteers.

You can access help by calling (01403) 627240 or email horsham@olivetreecancersupport.org.uk

Horsham singer/songwriter Alice Ella returns with a single, Somewhere Else, released on Friday 4 October.

Produced by Scott Stoddart, the single includes remixes by Jeff Nang and Uncon.

Alice said: “The song is about my personal journey of recovery from chronic ill health, when I longed to escape the prison my own body had become. I hope it will connect with people going through dark times.”

Alice rose to prominence in 2012, when she duetted with Emeli Sandé for a BRIT Awards promotion, and opened for Jessie J shortly

after. Her debut single, ‘Summer Sun’ was funded by a Kickstarter campaign and its follow-up, ’24 Obsession’, was launched with a sold-out headline show at the Hospital Club, London. Since then, Alice has recorded vocals for a McDonalds advertising campaign in America. For more details visit www.aliceella.com

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Chip at The Limeburners in 2016 (AAH/Toby Phillips)

‘Chip’ Sawyer has poured his last pint as he retires after 38 years at The Limeburners, Newbridge Road, Billingshurst. He took over as landlord from his parents in 1981, after Harry and Freda had run the pub since 1956. The site includes a caravan and camping site in the field behind the pub, which is owned by the Fullers brewery.

Chip said: It’s going to be strange closing up for the last time, as I grew up here and my family has run The Limeburners for 63 years. It’s home! Because of that, I’ve always looked after the pub, ensuring it looked nice inside and out. I’d have been disrespecting my parents if I hadn’t! But I turned 70 earlier this year and I want to retire while I am still fit and healthy, to spend more time my wife and family. I have 11 grandchildren and it’ll be great to spend more time with them.”

The pub will continue with a new landlord. www.limeburnersbillingshurst.co.uk

© Jack Sain

Conductor JENNY HANSELL with Cavalli Consort

Saturday 23rd Nov 2019 4.30pm St Mary’s Church, The Causeway, Horsham RH12 1HE

Vivaldi Magnificat KV610 Handel Chandos Anthems Bach Lobet den Herrn

Tickets £13, under 18s £6, available from 07730 983 314 or email: information@horsham-chamberchoir.org.uk Visit our website: www.horsham-chamberchoir.org.uk Mulled apple juice will be served from 4pm Horsham Chamber Choir: Registered charity no. 800117

David Walliams attended the premiere of Billionaire Boy at The Capitol on Thursday 26 September. Birmingham Stage Company have developed a strong reputation for producing stage adaptations of David’s stories, with Billionaire Boy following Gangsta Granny and Awful Auntie. With a full house on opening night, the author made a surprise appearance. Whilst the production team and staff at the theatre were aware of the plans, it was a surprise to the cast and the audience. David complimented the venue and praised Birmingham Stage Company for developing the story for stage and the cast for bringing his characters to life.

The atmosphere was electric, with families leaving the venue amazed. www.billboylive.com Horsham District Archaeology Group host a talk by Dr. David Dunkin at Brighton Road Baptist Church, Horsham, on Wednesday 23 October 7:30.

The talk highlights the location of Bronze Age metalwork in South-East England, following a field study of 333 metalwork sites. This will lead to a better understanding of the deposition of artefacts during this period. All welcome, members free, non members £3. For details email horshamarch@hotmail.co.uk

An public inquiry is to be held into Britaniacrest Recycling’s application for a Recycling, Recovery and Renewable Energy facility off Langhurst Wood Road, Horsham.

The inquiry starts at Horsham Sports Club, Cricketfield Road, from Tuesday 29 October, 10am. It is expected to continue for 12 days.

A campaign group fighting the incinerator, No Incinerator for Horsham (NI4H) is collating names of residents and organisations who wish to speak at the inquiry. It is also raising funds to pay for a legal team, as part of its challenge to against Britaniacrest’s proposals. https://ni4h.org

About 150 people of all ages took part in a climate strike in Horsham town centre on Friday 20 September.

As part of a global campaign, people met in the Carfax and marched along West Street, before heading to Horsham District Council’s offices at Parkside and the constituency office of Horsham MP Jeremy Quin.

The event, part of a global campaign with a reported four million participants, coincided with a UN Conference on climate change, held in New York. Representatives of local groups the South East Climate Alliance

(SECA), Horsham Extinction Rebellion, Sussex Green Living and Horsham Kinder Living were involved in the march.

The following day, Horsham Unitarian Church presented a display and film of the building’s history. It also hosted an open-air climate emergency exhibition.

St Catherine’s Hospice has organised a challenging hike through the Sussex countryside on Sunday 13 October.

Starting at the South of England Showground at Ardingly, the hike will take in fields, Balcombe Viaduct, Ardingly Reservoir and Wakehurst Place Seedbank. The full hike is 13 miles, but there are also 9 and 6 mile walking routes available, as well as a 3 mile nature trail, making it suitable for dog walkers. Advance registration is £8 (£10 on the day) and £5 for children. www.stch.org.uk/SLH

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A ‘breakthrough treatment’ for

Nerve Pain Relief Keith Atkinson, local Horsham therapist is offering a new method of pain relief called external neuromodulation.

Labelled ‘a breakthrough for nerve pain relief’, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London did a clinical test and noted a ‘dramatic reduction in pain’. In 19 of 35 cases, the hospital reported a 100% improvement with pain reduced to zero. All these patients were suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.*

Gina’s Story I had been in terrible leg pain both down the hamstring and also in the groin and the front thigh for 8 months and was simply going nowhere.

Working with my GP, I was given strong medication like naproxen and tramadol but nothing was able to shift it.

Going through the NHS system, I was eventually able to get an MRI scan which confirmed I had a prolapsed disc which was the cause of the awful nerve pain. However to find a solution was not easy. I was dead against an operation as I was told that the risks were high and if it went wrong I could end up in a wheelchair. I was just not prepared to take that chance.

I work as a support worker in a care home and one day a colleague came in and told me how she had visited Keith Atkinson at his clinic and had achieved amazing results for her sciatic pain. We sat down together over our tea break and she told me about it in more detail and I explored it further on the clinic website. I was struck by the fact that some leading hospitals were doing the treatment and it was safe and non-invasive. I felt I had nothing to lose so booked an appointment with Keith.

He explained the treatment and the nerve systems that were giving me the pain. I was amazed through all the treatments I had that no-one had mentioned these nerves before. I liked his calm manner and

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honest approach. He didn’t promise the world but gave me confidence that at last we might be on the right track.

After the first treatment it felt a lot better but the pain returned and I needed a follow up appointment after about 4 days. After this treatment the relief was dramatic.

All the terrible shooting pains down the leg and in the groin were gone. I still had some back pain but in follow-up sessions these all disappeared as well.

I look back at that time, when I was in so much pain, and still don’t understand how I managed to keep going at work. Now I’m completely pain free and don’t take any medications and am thoroughly enjoying life again.

I can’t recommend Keith’s clinic highly enough for anyone with this sort of nerve pain.

Gina Maidment Upper Beeding, West Sussex (August 2017)

Keith’s Assessment Gina’s prolapse disc is certainly the likely cause of the pain down the sciatic nerve as well as her pain in the groin due to the irritation of the femoral and lateral cutaneous nerves. All these nerves feed into the spine from L3 to L5 and were the likely cause of the debilitating pain.

Using external neuromodulation I treated all 3 nerve pathways and that resulted in reduced nerve inflammation. In addition, Gina followed a small set of exercises to widen the nerve channel in the spine and to strengthen her core.

After just a few treatments the pain was eliminated completely.

Having not suffered the same pain since her treatment in 2017, Gina has been more than happy for me to reproduce her original testimonial Keith Atkinson (October 2019)

“After this treatment the relief was dramatic. All the terrible shooting pains down the leg and in the groin were gone.” Gina Suggested Applications for Upper body • Shoulder and neck pain • Frozen shoulder • Facial Pain and TMJ • Bell’s Palsy • Tension headaches • Thoracic back pain • Repetitive Strain injury • Tennis/golfer’s elbow • Osteoarthritis and other joint pain • Sporting injuries • Post operative pain • Complex Regional Pain syndrome • Other nerve related pain

Suggested Applications for Lower body • Sciatica lower back and leg pain • Femoral back and leg pain • Knee pain • Achilles tendonitis • Osteoarthritis and other joint pain • Ankle and feet pain including gout • Plantar fasciitis • Sporting injuries • Post operative pain • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome • Other nerve related pain

Free Review Consultation 20-minute consultation at the Practice or over the phone Horsham Nerve Pain Practice, 46 Depot Road, Horsham RH13 5HD

(01403) 256332 07768 537846 info@horshampainrelief.co.uk www.horshampainrelief.co.uk The Stimpod NMS 460 used for external neuromodulation is now available at the Horsham Nerve Pain Practice. * ‘External stimulation:simplistic solution to intractable pain?’

St Thomas’ Hospital. All testimonials and case studies are printed with the consent of the individuals concerned.

Watch video case studies and read patient testimonials at www.horshampainrelief.co.uk

STING IN THE HORSHAM SERPENT GIN PROVES AN IMMEDIATE HIT

Two Horsham businesses have joined forces to create a gin that has quickly established a fiery reputation.

Horsham Serpent Gin is inspired by the legendary slaying of a dragon in St. Leonard’s Forest. It has been created by David Howard, founder of Cabin Pressure Spirits, whilst the artwork was created by his wife, Emily.

But the initial concept came from PJ Aldred and Marion Carter, owners of Crates Local Produce in the Carfax, where the gin has proved an hit with local gin enthusiasts.

PJ said: “Customers often tell us that we should make our own gin as we enjoy it so much! But we’ve always dismissed the idea, as it wouldn't be good enough and

we pride ourselves on only selling the best spirits. But we had this idea of making a gin inspired by the St. Leonard’s dragon, or serpent, as it was originally known. It needed to be high-quality and David was the ideal person to do it. We’ve been selling Cabin Pressure Spirits in the shop since he started and his consistency is remarkable. He’s a perfectionist!”

David set about creating the recipe, experimenting with ingredients as he sought a “kick” to fit the serpent branding.

“The idea was to create a gin with a hint of fire,” he says. “Cabin Pressure gin is subtle, but this is quite punchy! I dabbled with varieties of horseradish, chilli and peppers before settling on pink peppers to give the gin its main

Dale Jannels Director, impactsf Ltd

TEL: 01403 272625

www.impactsf.co.uk

Opportunities in Buy to Let sector remain The Buy to Let sector has been through some interesting times recently and it always seems to be this area that is targeted when it comes to tax and regulatory changes.

I always stipulate that any property investor should have a good set of experienced property professionals around them when it comes to advice and recommendations, especially with regards to in-depth tax advice from an accountant who understands property, limited companies and all the new rules surrounding landlords and, where applicable, portfolio landlords.

In addition, minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) were introduced in April 2018. The standards affected all new lets and tenancy renewals in the private rented sector to have a minimum energy performance rating of E. From April 2020, this will also cover existing tenancies.

Landlords will be unable to rent properties until any works are done and the minimum rating is achieved.

TALE flavour. The heat is separated during distillation process, so although there’s a kick, it’s a pleasant one. It doesn’t bring a sweat on or overpower the earthy tones from the nutmeg, angelica and the rich juniper and coriander base. It’s at the wintry end of the gin spectrum, so it’s quite warming in comparison to London dry. I bounced ideas back and forth with PJ and Marion, but we were close with our first effort. It turned out to be a fun collaboration!”

Legend has it that a serpent was slain in the forest by St. Leonard, a hermit living there. Lily of the Valley flowers were said to grow where the beast’s blood fell.

Having won the battle, St. Leonard decreed that snakes in the forest should be banished and the nightingales silenced, so he could pray in peace. These elements of the tale are detailed in Emily Howard’s wraparound artwork on the bottle.

“The availability of Buy to Let mortgages is at its highest for some time.”

On the upside, the availability of Buy to Let mortgages is at its highest for some time with loans available up to 85% of the property value and five-year fixed rate deals, with only three year redemption penalties recently being launched. One lender has recently launched two-year rates from 1.99% and five-year deals from 2.99%.

Terms and conditions obviously apply and every case is looked at and underwritten on its own merits.

All types of property are catered for including Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO), multiple properties on one title, student lets, holiday lets, AirBNB, refurbishment / conversions and more.

With interest rates so low, demand for rented properties increasing and no clearly defined solution to help first time buyers, I can only see this sector growing over the foreseeable future.

The bottle’s artwork was created by Emily Howard

They go their own way: PJ Aldred and Marion Carter, owners of Crates Local Produce

“People are drawn to the Horsham story and the artwork, but the proof is in the pudding!”

“Sausages Worth Bangin’ on About!”

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Following a last-minute dash, with labels placed on only the night before, Horsham Serpent Gin was launched at the Big Nibble, a celebration of local food and drink, held in the town centre. The product proved an immediate success…

Marion said: “David set up a stall in the Carfax market and we were offering free tastings in the shop. Between us, we got through 900 tastings, with three people saying it wasn't for them. Most loved the smoothness, combined with the kick. It’s been a strong seller and we’re already on our third batch. People are drawn to the Horsham story and the artwork, but the proof is in the pudding and it really is a brilliant gin.”

“Working with David has been a lot of fun.

It doesn’t seem that long ago that we heard him talking about his new business venture in The Anchor Tap. We invited him to sell his very first batch in Crates and he’s done very well, making a gin for Leonardslee since then too.”

“So, we invite people to come along and give it a try. By joining our gin club, customers can try some of our other fantastic local gins too!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS Visit Crates Local Produce at 24A Carfax or www.crateslocal.co.uk Cabin Pressure Spirits visit www.cabinpressurespirits.com

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A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

YOU’ VE FOC USE D ON YOUR B USI NE SS, NOW L E T YOUR B USINE SS FOC US ON YOU

It’s never too early to start considering your business exit strategy and future wealth plans As a successful business owner, you have a detailed understanding of what is required to make your business succeed.You, your employees and business advisers are focused on ensuring your business continues to create value for your customers, maintains your competitive advantage and exploits market and competitor opportunities.

involvement. This will mean recruiting a strong management team to whom you can delegate the running of the business.

Your products and services should also be scalable and your business should have unique selling points, whilst you keep an eye on competitors.

However, successful business owners tend to focus their time and energies on their business, sometimes at the expense of their personal needs and requirements. One of the key challenges facing any business owner is how you convert your enterprise into wealth – or, to put it another way, how you can extract the rewards for the many years of hard work and personal sacrifices that have been made in building your business, to create financial independence for yourself and your family.

A strong client base is needed with measures established to protect it. Set up long-term contracts with key customers but also reduce dependence on key clients. Similarly, you should have appropriate commercial contracts with key suppliers, employees or any individual or entity that could impact your business. Ultimately, you should consider the issues that may arise with any potential purchaser who will conduct his or her own due diligence prior to a sale.

When considering exiting your business, it is always best to plan as far ahead as possible. Close examination of your business to understand its strengths, as well as the areas where you could improve operations, can considerably increase the value you can achieve. If your business has, or can demonstrate, a track record of strong, growing profits it will be of great value and interest to potential purchasers. Knowing where your expenses are being incurred, where savings can be made and demonstrating a good track record of expense control all help.

DE C I S I O N S M A D E I M M E D I ATE LY BEFORE, AND AFTER, EX I T A R E C RU C I A L TO YOU R P O ST- E X I T WE A LTH P L A N.

To maximise your exit value, the business must be able to stand alone without your

When considering your options of what to do with the proceeds of so many years of hard work, you will need to take advice and consider the taxation consequences of the variety of options open to you; and where to invest your wealth.

While it may be practical to delay any investment decisions until you have become accustomed to the funds you have at your disposal, it will increase the tax-efficiency and flexibility of your options if you decide, before you sell the business, what you are going to do with the profits.

As part of this process we will work closely with your existing professional advisers, ensuring you make the most of your business assets.

At the same time, we will be working with you to do exactly the same for your personal assets. We believe you should plan for your financial security as rigorously as you plan for your business success. To achieve this, you need an adviser who understands you and your business and will work with you to ensure you obtain the maximum benefit from all your hard work.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time.

The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Succession planning may include referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place.

MATTHEW WYKES Associate Partner Tel: 01403 710422 | Mob: 07974 062561 Email: matthew.wykes@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.matthewwykes.co.uk

The Partner is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

H2SJP32438 06/19

WE’RE ALL SHOOK UP!

CADILLACS AND THE KING SHINE AT AMERICARNA

Horsham’s celebration of all things American returned to the town centre on Sunday 29 September.

Horsham’s own Almost Elvis Band were undoubtedly among the highlights, bringing the event to a close in style. The flamboyant performance of Anthony Tidy as ‘The King’ saw the Bandstand utilised in ways it

Any dreams of Corvettes and Cadillacs purring across the lush green grass of Horsham Park were dashed by a week of heavy rain.

There was a distinct lack of convertibles at the event, while many motorcyclists who had registered for AmeriCARna opted against squeezing into

their leathers and stayed at home. Yet still, it turned into a memorable occasion with plenty to keep motoring enthusiasts enthralled including this rare 1959 Mercury Commuter, throught to be one of only six to have survived. It was parked in Market Square, along with several Hot Rods.

seldom has been throughout its long and illustrious history!

Carfax hosted music throughout the day, with performances by The Groove Aces, John Stapleton and Toto Perello. The Rec Rooms also hosted music from rising star Josie Proto, a Blues Brothers tribute act and the exceptional Odyssey (below).

The Customs and Hot Rods Zone was curated by Mid Surrey Roadsters.

Sadly, many visitors didn’t find their way to the new Piries Place car park, where some of the best presented cars, trucks and motorcycles were located.

The display by Junkyard Motor Club (right) won an award for the Best Display in a Cote-sponsored competition.

Unfortunately, Nascars of West Sussex decided against

attending due to the weather, which was understandable.

So, Classic Cruisers again took pride of place in the Carfax alongside Modern Muscle Cars, with support from enthusiast clubs led by local event partner, Oddballs.

There was a large number of pre-1973 Ford Mustangs too, with the organisers grateful for the support of Pilgrim Motorsports, a Mustang and Cobra specialist based in Small Dole.

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Guildford Harley Davidson sponsored the American Bike Zone.

It wasn’t as busy as it would have been had the sun been shining, but the very latest Harleys were displayed.

Event organisers Horsham District Council expressed gratitude to the car and bike owners who did attend. A spokesperson said: “The success of AmeriCARna is a great credit to those drivers who came along to support us. Some businesses, groups and individuals made a huge effort and I know that the workmanship behind many of

the vehicles on show was greatly appreciated by visitors.”

“We were blessed with a dry spell in the middle of the day and the town was heaving. With vehicles unable to access the Park, we had to move things around but it worked out well, with the police car display in East Street proving a big hit!”

It wasn’t just about cars and live.

Many local businesses, community groups and sports clubs got involved in a bit of promotion!

Local specialists Travel PA joined with Memphis and Mississippi Tourism to offer accommodation worth £500 in the heart of Elvis country.

Brighton-based Sussex Thunder American Football Club gave demonstrations and there was information on local baseball and softball clubs. Sporting Bears offered ‘ride-outs’ in exchange for

a charitable donation, basing itself at Brock Taylor.

Swan Walk Shopping Centre hosted LEGO building with support from Super Hero Parties, whilst Pemberton Hague provided great street theatre!

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Movie and police cars were brought together

by Motion Picture Motors and proved a huge hit on East Street.

Cops from the L.A and N.Y Police used heavy-handed tactics on anyone caught with planted goods. When they weren’t chomping on doughnuts, of course!

The presence of an Optimus Prime lorry and Bumblebee car from Transformers was another highlight. Both were part of the Great Cruise Out, during which several cars partook in a burn-out!

Horsham District Council thanks all of its partners and sponsors who helped make the event happen, including Oddballs Car Club, Pilgrim Motorsports, Guildford Harley Davidson, Horsham JEEP, Food Rocks and Coden Events, Corvette Club UK, Mid-Surrey Roadsters, Motion Picture Motors, Berkeley Homes, Freeman Brothers, Sussex Thunder AFC, Super Hero Parties, The Rec Rooms, The Crown and all of the musicians, performers and traders. www.horshamtimewellspent.co.uk

AMAZING VALUE ON USED SUBARU MODELS. We are currently offering huge savings on a limited range of Approved Used Subaru vehicles. All with low mileage and many less than 12 months old.

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Vehicles shown are a Forester 2.0i XE Premium Lineartronic OTR price of £32,050.00, Outback 2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price of £33,560.00 and an XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price of £29,060.00, all prices include optional special paint finish. OTR price incl. VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. Please consult your local Subaru dealer for exact quotation. NCAP rating applies to SUV, Impreza and Levorg models.

TURN YOUR MOTORING DREAMS INTO REALITY At Anthony James Cars Limited we specialise in giving our clients the experience they deserve when purchasing a new vehicle. Born from a lifelong passion for cars and the desire to own special vehicles that were once posters on a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedroom wall.

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MY STORY ...so far!

Geraldine Williams: Memories of Blackpool Variety Shows I was born in Lewisham in 1936.

My father was a Civil Engineer and after serving in the First World War, spent the Second World War building aerodromes and camps. My mother was milliner in Bond Street before she married.

We left London when the bombs started falling and stayed with my great aunt near Haslemere. I would stand in the garden and watch German bombers fly

overhead, on their way to London to drop doodlebugs. One night, I saw a plane with flames coming out of its tail as it plummeted to the ground. I went out with my father the next morning and we found some fragments!

as a boarder, aged seven. I wasn't clever but enjoyed my time there as it had an outdoor theatre. I loved singing and acting, particularly Shakespeare’s plays. I was also allowed to take my pony to school!

I shouldn’t admit to it, but I was expelled from school! I was a tomboy. I wanted to play tanks with the boys rather than dolls with the girls and didn’t fit in. So, I joined Inval’s St Hilary’s School

I enjoyed a pleasant, middle class upbringing in the countryside, riding horses throughout the summers. When I was 13, I would often ride with a girl who was a few years older than me. She

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taught how to play the Minute Waltz. When I returned home one weekend, my parents decided that I could have my own piano and when I sat down and played Chopin, they nearly fell off their chair! What they didn’t know at that point was that I couldn't play anything else!

At my father’s insistence, I attended secretarial college. He said it would give me skills I could always fall back on. It was

around that time that my father retired and took on The Pulborough Hotel. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long since been demolished to make way for housing. After that, my parents took on The Dukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Head public house in Leatherhead.

Geri (second from right) loved performing in plays as a child

I was at the pub one night when the ventriloquist, Dennis Spicer, popped in for a drink. We got talking as it turned out he needed somebody for a very small role in his stage act, playing the stooge for one of his dummies, James Green. Before I knew it, I was on stage at the Finsbury Park Empire!

I then performed at venues in Croydon and Brighton.

Dennis was a brilliant ventriloquist.

He would throw his voice and have a pretend conversation with somebody sat up in the gods. I was standing right beside him and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see his lips move, so Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve no idea how he did it.

Geri (far right) at the Policemansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ball

He was offered a six-month residency in Blackpool, at the very height of variety shows in the mid-1950s. So, at the age of only 18, I headed north. I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t paid a penny - I suppose Dennis thought it a privilege for me! So, I worked for a company selling photos of famous people with printed

â&#x20AC;&#x153;One night, Ernie Wise got locked in the toilet and we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get him out!â&#x20AC;? autographs. In the afternoons, I sang in one of the many booths that lined the Golden Mile. I remember that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Around the World in 80 Daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Victor Young was a big song at the time, so I was plugging that constantly. That was how records were sold!

Dennis travelled to Blackpool with his wife and they stayed in their own house. But I was in another house with a few up-and-coming variety acts performing at the same time. They included Tommy Steele, Bernie Winters, singer Joan Turner and a vocal group called The Three Deuces. In the evenings, we would all come together and Joan loved trying to get us all to sing in harmony. I remember lots of people with autograph books, wondering who on earth I was!

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Dennis Spicer with his famous puppet, James Green

There was a BBC Radio programme called ‘Mrs Dale’s Diary’, which was hugely popular at the time. We would all act out scenes from the show while it was playing, which was hilarious. It was an absolute madhouse!

recognised him. When Tommy saw the funny looks he was getting, he said, “It’s time to go!” I went to see him perform at the height of his fame and I had to walk through a crowd of screaming girls to get to his stage door!

Also on the bill at Blackpool Central Pier was the comedian and singer Joan Turner, Morecambe & Wise and the trumpeter Kenny Baker. One night, Ernie Wise somehow got locked in the toilet and we couldn’t get him out. We had to tell a soubrette to keep singing until we could get him out.

When the door opened, he said, “It could only happen to the straight man!”

I celebrated my 21st birthday in Blackpool. Morecambe & Wise were there for my party! Ernie took photos on the night, but sadly I’ve never seen them and I’ve lost all my photos from that time.

Another night, we went out in Blackpool for a Big Dance Night and dressed Tommy Steele up in loads of mascara. He looked ridiculous, with this beautiful blonde hair! He was already famous though and people

Soon, my time in the entertainment business was over. I came home and got a “proper job” as a telegraphist with Cable and Wireless. Some of the best variety acts in seaside resorts became household names. Dennis Spicer was a great talent, but he was killed in 1964. A car crossed the central reservation and collided with his car. I hadn’t spoken to him since leaving Blackpool.

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“I wouldn’t swap the relationship I have with my grandchildren for all the money in the world.”

Transcribing telegrams was great fun. You wouldn't pay heed to what was written, as your focus was on counting words. One time, I was typing, ‘She doesn't know what she's doing. She’s just tapping away line after line of this pointless message’ before I saw that my colleagues were playing a prank on me! I later worked at the airport on signals, then did a similar role at Wimpey, the housing developers.

I moved to Horsham with my husband in 1966 and we’ve lived in Cambridge Road ever since.

We paid £3500 for our house, with a mortgage of £33 a month. It sounds cheap, but my husband was only earning £10 a week at Shoreham Airport at the time!

Childminding has been a massive part of my life. I have four children and nine grandchildren, seven of which I’ve looked after over a 32 year period! It’s hard work, with lots of running around, but I wouldn’t swap the relationship I have with my grandchildren for all the money in the world.

Geri moved to Cambridge Road, Horsham, in 1966 and has never left

TREATMENT OF VERRUCA & WARTS IN CHILDREN Verruca (or warts in other parts of the body) are rough areas that develop in the skin as a result of the Human Papilloma virus.

Doctors, Dermatologists and Podiatrists will treat them with a cold spray called Cryotherapy or with an acid. The called inflammation around the verruca to try to trigger the immune system to clear them. A lot of children, especially younger ones, find this too painful.

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My dyed hair was the idea of one of my granddaughters! I had always fancied a streak of colour

and so, I went for it. It started with just a pink streak and people liked it, so it’s been getting brighter ever since. Usually I now go with a rainbow effect, with turquoise, blue and pink!

I still get excited and reminisce when I see somebody I used to know on TV! Last year, after an operation for arthritis, my family treated me to a day out in London.

We went to watch Tommy Steele in The Glenn Miller Story. I must say, he looks far better for his age than I do! My family tried to persuade me to meet Tommy, but I didn't think he’d remember me, so they left it! But I had a great day, with my granddaughter whizzing around the city in a wheelchair!

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS/ GERALDINE WILLIAMS If you live in the Horsham District and would like to share your story with AAH, we’d love to hear from you. It’s a great excuse to walk down memory lane and dig out those old photo albums!

Email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk

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Help at Home

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What is Age UK Horsham District’s Help at Home Service?

“Our Help at Home Service is for anyone over the age of 50 and living in Horsham District. It’s that little bit of extra help around the house, so if hoovering, dusting, shopping or changing the bed linen is becoming a struggle, please get in touch and hopefully we’ll be able to help. We can also help with gardening and small DIY jobs. The service is competitively priced, and the hourly rate you pay depends on your income (starting at £9 per hour).

We are supported by a team of about 40 self-employed Home Helps across the District. They work different hours/days to suit their lifestyle. All of the Home Helps

who work with us are lovely, caring people and we carry out DBS checks and obtain references.”

Julie, Jo and Yvonne (Age UK Horsham District’s Help at Home Team)

How does Age UK Horsham District’s Help at Home Service support you?

“When my Home Help, Mandy, comes each week, she cleans the kitchen and bathroom, dusts, vacuums and changes my bed linen. It is very reassuring to know that the same person will visit me each week. She comes on the same day and time and knows how I like things done.”

Mrs G, Horsham

If you, your Mum, Dad, Grandparent, neighbour or friend needs a little bit of extra help at home, please show them this article or get in touch on (01403) 260560 or email: helpathome@ageukhorshamdistrict.org.uk If you’re interested in working with us please visit our website: www.ageukhorshamdistrict.org.uk

How do you find being a Home Help, working alongside Age UK Horsham District?

“I have been a Home Help for just over four years. I find it very rewarding to provide help to those who are beginning to struggle with everyday tasks. My work varies from client to client but I clean kitchens/bathrooms, change bed linen, put the laundry on/out, iron and sometimes do the shopping or collect a prescription. Having regular clients means I get to know them and can help keep an eye on their well-being.”

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ONE TO WATCH

LIAM WAKEFIELD

SONGS

IN THE KEY OF So, who’s this then?

This is Liam Wakefield, a singer/songwriter and guitarist from Southwater.

He looks familiar…

Liam was previously featured in AAH in 2014, after writing a fantasy story, ‘Erik and the Curse of the Grimisoul’. However, there was no follow-up to the book, as Liam needed a more financially secure profession to provide for his young family.

And he chose music! Is he crazy?

Actually, he joined the army. Having previously served in Afghanistan, Liam re-trained as a Mariner and worked in the Mediterranean, monitoring migrant crossings as part of Operation Litten.

“My son was only a few months old when I left and it was awful being away from him,” said Liam. “But that’s part and parcel of the job.” Sadly, a long career in the Armed Forces has been curtailed by a rare genetic disease, Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (PXE).

What’s that?

PXE affects people in many different ways, but it’s common to experience loss of sight.

Liam has a partial loss of vision in one eye and chronic pain too. “Sometimes, the pain is unbearable. Medication makes me numb and docile and I like to be sharp and creative, especially around my children. So, I’m learning to deal with the pain. It’s tough, as I can’t do many of the things that I love, like riding my Harley Davidson!”

Tough break…

Indeed. However, Liam is receiving great support from the Armed Forces and discussing options open to him. Without a full-time occupation and with his Army ambitions hampered by the diagnosis, he wondered what else he could do. He wrote a draft for a second novel, but looking at a computer screen caused too much eye pain.

Then he thought, ‘I've always loved playing music!’

He’s performed before then, as he?

Liam was the singer in a rock band called Black Arrows. The members all went to Forest School together and built a solid following. “If we’d stuck at it, we could have done well,” reckons Liam. “But we expected

LIFE “There’s a definite nod to Americana and I can’t help but sing with a slight American twang.

But I’m not writing in somebody else’s style.”

big things to happen overnight and it doesn’t work like that. I was naïve and temperamental, so when things didn’t happen I l walked out on the band, shaved my head and joined the Army!”

crowd. Ultimately, some people do judge a book by its cover. I've seen great musicians who have been ‘beige’ on stage. If you walk out dressed as a peacock, people will drive home thinking about you!”

But this time, he’s going it alone?

Yes. And whereas Black Arrows were influenced by bands like Guns ‘n’ Roses, Liam is more influenced by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. “There’s a definite nod to Americana and I can’t help but sing with a slight American twang. But I'm not writing songs in somebody else’s style. I write how I feel. It’s an authentic sound, and I hope people can hear the heart and soul behind it.”

How did he embark on this musical rebirth?

He wrote some new songs and tentatively posted them online. Encouraged by the response, in February, he went gigging for the first time in a decade. His first gig was at an open mic night at a golf and country club, but it didn’t go great! “I was wearing a leather jacket and boots, and I walked on stage at this golf club thinking, ‘what have I done?’ I thought I’d made a dreadful mistake!”

He looks the part!

It’s something Liam considers important. “If you don't look right, you turn away a certain

But he kept going...

He didn’t have much choice! He’d bought a Turner acoustic guitar that he admits “broke

the bank” and felt compelled to carry on. So, he travelled to Southampton and played more open mic nights, gradually getting used to perform live again.

“Performing at 18 is very different to performing as a married father of two at 28! When I was young, I would get through each night on drink and adrenaline and I doubted I could give a decent show without that. But in fact, I found I was comfortable playing to a crowd. The Army had given me that confidence.”

And he just kept playing, did he?

Liam has been admirably prolific, racking up more than 100 gigs in six months and improving all the time. He went down at storm at Cellar Full of Sound in Hastings and picked up new fans at the Overdraft Craft Ale Bar in Southampton – a night when he’d worried that his fee wouldn’t even cover the petrol costs. “Sometimes, I play great gigs in an intense, vibrant atmosphere. I performed at the Wickham Festival in August with the likes of Frank Turner, Level 42 and The Proclaimers. Other times, I'm playing to two people in a pub and I’m lucky if I get a clap!”

“Initially, I wanted a Telecaster, like Bruce Springsteen.

But the sound didn’t suit my songs.”

Still, you never know who’s listening…

Something Liam is only too aware of. He played a live set for Crawley Hospital Radio and someone visiting a patient happened to work for Loud in London. They’ve booked Liam to play at the O2 Academy Islington on 2 November on a bill featuring other promising acts. “Sometimes, you play in front of a handful of people and you start to doubt everything. But then one of those people will come up and say, ‘that was brilliant! Where can I hear your music?’ If I can have that impact on one person at every gig, then it’s been a success. After only six months, I’ve generated an extra thousand followers on Facebook, so I’m getting some traction now.”

Liam uses his Epiphone Century guitar on Thirteen Gardens

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Has he recorded anything yet?

Liam has laid down four tracks in the studio. The most immediately catchy is ‘Thirteen Gardens’, which was streamed more than 2,500 times in its first week of release on Spotify. It features a jaunty, summer-tinged chorus courtesy of an Epiphone ‘1966’ Century guitar. Liam said: “Initially, I wanted a Telecaster like Bruce Springsteen. But the sound didn’t suit my songs, whereas the Epiphone was just right. It’s the guitar James Bay used on his debut album and I wanted a similar sound, between electric and acoustic.”

Any other recommendations?

Liam’s personal favourite is Shadows, a soft, reflective duet that resists the urge for a dramatic key change. The female vocals come courtesy of Maddison Douch, who is carving her own career as a songwriter.

“I’m delighted with how this song turned out,” said Liam. “We didn’t even record the song together, as Maddison sent her vocals separately!”

What’s next?

Liam now has a Manager and is hoping to reach new audiences with big shows in London and Guildford. He will be perfecting more songs in the coming months, releasing tracks through various platforms and hopes to use the best material for a new album. “The album will focus heavily on mental health, to help people understand the underlying issues behind it,” says Liam. All the profits will be donated to military charity, Combat Stress.

Liam’s album will have a strong emphasis on mental health (Photo: www.liamwakefield.com)

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WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS Liam has a YouTube channel and can be found on Spotify. For information on releases and gigs, visit www.liamwakefield.com

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CALLUM BUDD

Budding Talent

FOOTBALLER CALLUM SHINES IN CEREBRAL PALSY TEAM Many young footballers dream of seeing their image gracing a Premier League stadium.

For 21-year-old Callum Budd from Horsham, the dream became a reality when he was part of Brighton & Hove Albion’s official kit launch at the American Express Community Stadium.

Having impressed for Brighton & Hove Albion Cerebral Palsy FC, the midfielder is now targeting a place in the England CP team.

He talks to AAH about his sporting ambitions…

When I was two-years-old, I had a fit in the middle of the night.

My mum rushed me to hospital, where I suffered a stroke and my whole life changed. I was diagnosed with hemiplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy that paralysed the right side of my body. As well as that, I have uncontrollable epileptic seizures every night.

I have always loved football.

When I was eight, I joined Roffey Robins, which was run by best friend’s dad. Initially I did okay, but after a couple of years I was struggling to keep up. The manager was always kind and honest with me. He didn’t want to see me lose confidence as a substitute when we joined the league. So, he recommended another club, Forest Flyers.

“It was amazing to meet and play against people who were like me. It totally changed my life.”

The Flyers played indoors and was specifically for people with disabilities and special needs. It was great, as there were players of every ability. But I had a bad experience when I tried to play for my secondary school team.

Some boys said horrible things and told me I shouldn’t be playing sport at all. It hurt so much that I quit football completely.

I changed schools and Manor Green in Crawley offered better support. After a couple of years, I started playing football again at tournaments. They were run by Albion in the Community (AITC), the official charity of Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club.

There are different rules governing the game. Rather than throw-ins, we roll the ball into play to give us more time to control it. I’m okay with headers, but CP players can have varying degrees of brain injuries so, you’ll usually see the ball played on the ground. I’m lucky to have a powerful shot. It was recorded by one of the coaches at 80mph.

In training, my team mates know that if the ball is on my right side, I’ll pass it. But if it’s on my left, they need to get out of the way!

There is a big difference between Cerebral Palsy and mainstream players. We played a friendly against Eastbourne Under-23s and were 6-0 down

inside ten minutes. Their manager realised it wasn’t going to benefit anyone and his side just passed the ball around after that. However, our regular games are against other CP sides in the national league, including Chelsea and Southampton.

We train on Monday nights at Lancing and play our home games at the club’s training ground. The coaches never shout or criticise us, as the focus is on improving the team’s ability. I’m still improving as a player. I started in defence but have moved into midfield and have scored the odd goal.

My mum received an email from Paul Brackley, Disability Manager at AITC, inviting me for a trial with Brighton & Hove Albion Cerebral Palsy FC. As a Brighton fan, I was thrilled! I went along to the session at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre in Lancing and it was amazing to meet and play against people who were like me. It totally changed my life.

In Cerebral Palsy football, there are different levels of disability.

Some players are affected in both arms and both legs, some are affected in just the arms or the legs. Others are like me, affected down one side, while some have brain injuries and physically speaking – have an advantage on the pitch. Clubs tend to only field one such player at a time, so it’s not unfair on one side.

The left side of my body is strong, but my right side is very weak. I go to the gym and attend physio sessions, but my right foot is only capable of short passes. A lot of CP players have thin legs and I worry that I’ll snap them in half when I tackle them!

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Callum Budd also helps coach a Horsham Sparrows youth team

“The next thing I know, there’s a 50ft poster at the Amex Stadium club shop and I’m on it!”

Brighton is one of the best clubs in the country at supporting people with a disability. As well as Cerebral Palsy FC, AITC runs Brighton & Hove Albion Deaf FC, Brighton & Hove Albion Powerchair FC and Brighton & Hove Albion Amputee FC. We all wear the same kit as the Premier League side and feel part of the full Brighton set-up. AITC also a strong girls and women’s programme, so it encourages everyone to take up the sport.

Whatever place you’re into

Last season, I was invited to try out the new Brighton & Hove Albion kit. A few photographs were taken and next thing I know, there’s a 50ft poster at the Amex Stadium club shop and I’m on it! It also included players from the amputee, powerchair and deaf teams, along with players from the senior teams, including Lewis Dunk. It’s brilliant that the club is proud of all its national teams, as most Premier League sides only put up pictures of its star players.

My coach later joked that shirt sales were down and that it was all my fault!

My proudest moment as a footballer was when I was put forward for England trials. England has Cerebral Palsy teams at Under-21, Under-23 and Senior level, attracting the best players from across the country. I wasn’t selected for the squad, but just to train with them was an incredible experience.

I also volunteer with Horsham Sparrows Under 9’s and have gained my F.A Level 1 coaching badge. Now I’m working towards Level 2. It’s great helping young players, although my goal is still to be picked for England one day!

“Bring out the adventurer in you!”

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS Albion in the Community runs a weekly football session open to anyone with a disability. It takes place at Forest School, Comptons Lane, Horsham on Saturday mornings (U16s between 9.30am - 10.30am, and Over-16s from 10.30am -12.15pm).

For more information, email disability@albioninthecommunity.org.uk

Our colourful arena features 11 fun themed climbing experiences and 19 individual climbing lines, suitable from from the age of 4.

Just £9 per session. www.thebridgeleisurecenre.co.uk

The Bridge Leisure Centre 01403 211311 Places for People Leisure Ltd. working in partnership with Horsham District Council.

AAH would like to thank the Holbrook Club for allowing us to use its facilities for the photo shoot.

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BEING HARDY

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NURSERY For 20 years, the aptly-named Big Plant Nursery in Ashington has been known for its eye for the exotic.

It also has a selection of hardy exotics

Bamboos come in a multitude of colours whilst shrubs, olive trees, Japanese maples and hardy exotics from banana trees to gingko biloba plants, sets it apart from traditional nurseries.

Even after two decades in business, owner Bruce Jordan still travels extensively, seeking dazzling new plants to inspire gardening professionals and enthusiasts. And by embracing new technology, Big Plant is expanding its reach…

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Bruce had been designing and landscaping for 17 years but had struggled to source certain types of plants for the gardens he worked on. So, he started growing bamboo, as well as palm trees and some hardy exotics at his home in nearby Wiston.

Many of the plants are grown at a second site at the nursery

“It wasn’t long before clients started telling their friends about the plants I was introducing to their gardens,” said Bruce. “At weekends, people would visit my home, as they were enthused by these new ideas. There was a demand for bigger, jungle-like plants that wasn’t being catered for by garden centres.”

“I decided to take these plants on the road, attending county shows, as well as Horsham Farmers’ Market. It reached a point where I enjoyed finding and growing plants more than I enjoyed the landscaping. The owners of Hole Street Nursery offered me some space and we took the plunge in January 1999, running Big Plant from a caravan and a small poly tunnel.

CHAMPIONING EXOTICS The focus on evergreen, architectural-style plants created great interest at exhibitions and shows. After attending small Royal Horticultural Society

Bruce Jordan, owner of Big Plant Nursery

events, Bruce was soon being invited to prestigious venues like Hampton Court, Tatton Park and Chelsea, whilst the nursery attracted the attention of gardening programmes including BBC Gardeners’ World.

Big Plant eventually took on the entire site 12 years ago, when the owners of Hole Street Nursery retired. To meet demand, Bruce formed partnerships with a specialist nursery in Cornwall, as well as others in Holland, Belgium,

Germany and Italy, to offer more choice to customers.

“What we have always done is champion hardy exotics and new types of herbaceous plants,” he said. “We've been inspired and influenced by planting in European gardens, as well as ideas from the West Coast of America, particularly Oregon and California, and have introduced these new concepts to customers.”

E-commerce has seen the business grow

‘Big Plant champions clump-forming Fargesia varieties like Black Dragon, Black Cherry and the striking orange and red canes of Jiuzhaigou’.’

Imogen Padford, Operations Manager

Palm trees grow well in the Sussex clay

MARTYN EDWARDS

“Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf transformed the way we look at prairie-style gardens by giving it a contemporary twist. It’s not just about herbaceous borders, but about ornamental grasses combined with loose and relaxed bursts of colour. It’s vibrant, yet low maintenance and relatively inexpensive - perfect for modern living.”

“Every year, there are interesting forms of grass, shrubs and plants being developed by breeders all over the world, so I’m always on the lookout.

I've been in this industry for 40 years and I still learn something every day.

You can never know everything and that’s why I love the job!”

Award-Winning Farm Shop New House Farm Shop and Tea Room is located in a beautifully renovated 16th Century barn, hidden in a quiet spot on the edge of Horsham. People come from all over to enjoy our cafe and locally sourced produce.

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Local Food and Drink Produce IN-HOUSE GROWING

audibly. Not every plant prospers when grown from seed in the south of England, but Bruce says it’s surprising how many suit the conditions.

It is not just an eclectic mix that has helped Big Plant to thrive.

About half of its plants are grown at the nursery’s second site, not only providing a sustainable business model but also reducing the reliance on exported plants. A major success has been bamboo, with Big Plant championing clump-forming Fargesia varieties like Black Dragon, Black Cherry and the striking orange and red canes of Jiuzhaigou.

“We have a plantation of palm trees, as they grow well in Sussex clay. We’ve grow a range of exotic plants too and are working on new ideas all the time.

We have a begonia plant with enormous flowers in the shape of elephant ears. It was found high in a mountain range and we’re trying to grow it here. If it’s successful, we’ll offer it to customers.”

They are ideal focal points for prairie-style planting, as they are stimulating, both visually and

“Of course, sometimes you can't beat the Mediterranean sun and we do need to bring in certain

Our locally sourced produce include fresh fruit and veg, freshly baked bread, fresh meat from local farms, beers and gins by local brewers, wines from the Bolney Estate, Sussex cheeses, greetings cards and great gifts!

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The Jungle Tearoom is inspired by cafes in Costa Rica

plants from Sicily or elsewhere on the continent. We used to sell more olive trees, but there's a reliance on importing them from abroad for that same reason.”

JUNGLE TEA ROOM There have been two major changes over the last decade which have altered the way Big Plant caters for its customers.

On a local level, the Jungle Tearoom was built, drawing in

people to enjoy a hot drink or home-made savoury dishes, breakfast and lunches. The design was inspired by a tin-roof café that Bruce came across while on a plant-hunting expedition in Costa Rica.

On a national level, there has been a boom in online sales.

Bruce and his team were quick to utilise the potential of the internet and today there’s a constant stream of palm trees, bamboos, arid plants, ferns, Japanese maples, fruit trees,

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Palm tress, bamboo and hardy exotics attract customers from far afield

conifers and other plants being transported across the country and beyond. “The future for us is the continued growth of our e-commerce business,” says Bruce. “For that, we need to be aware of trends and you do that by talking to customers.”

“The wonderful thing at Big Plant is that it doesn’t matter if you’re a pensioner from the village looking for a single camellia or somebody looking to completely landscape a five-acre garden; we will do all we can to

help you choose the right plants.

People have different tastes when it comes to their garden and that’s what makes it exciting for us, as you never know what the next customer is looking for.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS

Visit Big Plant Nursery at Hole Street, Ashington, RH20 3DE Call: (01903) 891466 www.bigplantnursery.co.uk

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Members of the Central Sussex Beekeeping Association meet at Pease Pottage

CREATING A BUZZ

MAKING HONEY WITH CENTRAL SUSSEX BEEKEEPING ASSOCIATION

The Central Sussex Beekeeping Association (CSBKA) offers the chance for people to keep bees and harvest their own honey.

Affiliated to the British Beekeeping Association (BBKA), the group meets weekly in Pease Pottage, where it has its training apiaries. Introduction courses give people a taste of beekeeping, with talks and lectures held during the winter months to broaden the knowledge of members. We meet Apiary Manager Melvyn Essen, Membership Secretary Pip Edgcombe and members Becca Laurence, Morgan Bolt and Elaine Allen…

Melvyn: I have been a member since 2005.

I was working on an estate when I came across a swarm and called the CSBKA. The chap who came to deal with it could see that I was interested in the swarm and invited me to join. That year, I was the group’s only new member. Now, we attract many more people through introductory courses.

CSBKA members inspect the colony

Melvyn: It's hard to put your finger on what it is about bees; impossible to resist!

Becca: I've always loved the idea of keeping bees. They pollinate most of our crops and if it wasn’t for them, humans would struggle to exist. So, to say they’re important is an understatement!

In summer, each hive can carry 60,000 bees

Becca: I attended the course three years ago. Melvyn showed me the ropes but I like to keep coming along to the Saturday meetings. I have three children and it’s nice to have some time to pursue my own hobby.

Morgan: I was interested in beekeeping at a very young age, but my parents said I should wait a while. Then, I went to a school fair and met Melvyn, who invited me along to a CSBKA meeting. I don't know where the interest stems from, as it’s an unusual hobby for a 15-year-old. I've just always been fascinated by the natural world.

“Some people watch a few videos on YouTube and think they can do it, but it doesn’t work like that.”

Pip: I responded to a newspaper advert about the introduction course three years ago and have been a member ever since. There’s a space at the bottom of my garden and I’d long thought it would be ideal for hives. But with family and work commitments, it was a while before I could do it.

Elaine: I was booked on to the introductory course as a Christmas present, as I’d mentioned an interest in beekeeping. Melvyn has been my mentor and in the early days was always on hand to help. Some take the course and then continue beekeeping at home, but others enjoy coming to the meetings as it’s a pleasant, sociable environment.

Morgan: I joined four months ago and the experienced members have been showing me the basics. You can only learn by going into the apiary, inspecting the colony and understanding what to look for in a healthy hive. They allow me to be hands-on, and the morning flies by! I’m hoping that for my birthday, or perhaps Christmas, I will get a hive of my own.

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Melvyn Essen makes small batches of honey and sells it at a shop in Southwater

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Pip: You shouldn’t go into beekeeping without some experience, as you’ll come unstuck. Some people watch a few videos on YouTube and think they can do it, but it doesn’t work like that.

Elaine: When you keep bees, there are many things that can go wrong. It’s important to be able to call on people who have experience.

Becca: A few weeks after the introductory course, I bought a flat-pack hive, as well as the basic equipment. The day after my bee suit arrived, I found a swarm in a tree in my garden. Melvyn

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A smoker is used to calm the colony

WIN A SPA DAY FOR 2 AT SOUTH LODGE The CSBKA monitor the health of the colonies in the apiary

Morgan Bolt extracts the honey

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had just run a session on how to remove a swarm from a tree, so it felt like fate! With his words of wisdom ringing in my ears, I took on the swarm and now have two colonies at home.

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Pip: When I told my husband that I was bringing bees home for the first time, he freaked! Fortunately, he’s fine now and even helps me move the hives around in the summer months, when a colony can contain about 60,000 bees. As I have four, there’s potentially 250,000 bees in my garden.

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Elaine: I have two hives at home and produce a small amount of honey, which can be ‘set’ honey or ‘runny’ honey.

Beekeeping is my hobby at home and my husband is a little wary, as there are so many bees in a colony. Even when you’re wearing a protective suit, you need courage to open the hive.

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Melvyn: I have 12 hives and sell honey at the Co-op in Southwater (Godfrey’s). Even if you charge £10 a jar, you wouldn’t come close to making it profitable, as it takes a lot of time and effort. So, I don’t charge much. I just want people to enjoy it!

Pip: It’s very rewarding. When you dip your finger in and taste honey from your own hive, the feeling is incredible! Initially, I made just enough to give to friends and family. This year, I made 90lb of honey, which is remarkable when you think that each bee makes a tiny amount in its lifetime.

Morgan: For me, the honey extraction is the best part. You need to manually turn the rotating drum so that the honey comes off the wax combs. It’s a lot of work for quite small amounts of honey.

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Pip shows Morgan how to take apart and inspect a bee hive

Becca: It’s exhilarating to have honey that you helped nurture and gives you a great deal of satisfaction. My children get involved with the extraction. They’re too little to handle hives, although I’ll buy them bee suits one day as they are interested in it. I’ve even been to their school to give a talk on beekeeping!

Elaine: You do get stung occasionally. It's an occupational hazard, but not as common as you’d think. It normally occurs when you upset the colony. When you go into their

home and start shifting things around, they can get a little annoyed! But once you've been stung, you know what it feels like so you don't feel fear it as much.

Elaine: The colonies are now preparing for winter. They are much more active in the summer. However, most just go about their business. If you’re gentle and precise in your movement, they let you do what you need to.

Melvyn: Part of our role as a club is to protect the honeybee. There is a threat from the Asian hornet after a mated Queen was accidentally introduced in France. It’s moving throughout Europe and last year nests were found and destroyed in Hampshire. This species can wipe out entire colonies, so a network of beekeepers operates across the country and is ready to respond.

Melvyn: If a member of the public finds a swarm locally, they call us. If it’s not a wasp or

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“There is a threat from the Asian hornet after a mated Queen was accidentally introduced in France.” a bumblebee nest, we’ll take it away, build a colony and often one of our members will take it on. When we receive calls about nests in the ground, they are not honeybees but mining bees. They should be left alone as they are a very beneficial insect with an important ecological function. People needlessly worry- it’s best to put something around a mining bee nest, if you’re worried about dogs or children. Sadly, I regularly hear the words, “I love bees but not in my garden.”

Pip: We have about 100 members and another 50 who have been on the instruction course and are thinking about getting bees.

As well as Saturday meetings and courses, we attend events like the ploughing match to promote our work.

Elaine: During winter, guest speakers come in to talk about keeping bees, making honey or even things like cosmetics, which honey and beeswax is used for. We’ve also had talks on the environment, including one from the

beekeeper on the Knepp Estate. One woman studying for a PhD came here after she monitored the waggle dance that bees do to determine where bees forage for honey!

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS

For more details about the introductory course or meetings, visit the ‘Contact Us’ page at https://centralsussexbka.org.uk

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Henfield firemen, pictured in 1937. Old fire engines are featured in the new book. ©Marjorie Baker/HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

CONDENSED HISTORY BOOK LISTS 100 OBJECTS TO HIGHLIGHT OUR HERITAGE

Neil MacGregor has been telling the world’s history in only 100 objects for a programme on Radio 4.

So, if our global heritage can be defined in this way, surely describing the history of the Horsham District in the same number of objects would be easy? As it transpires, it is not! For stories span 100 million years and - while some are familiar to us - others have lain hidden in plain sight.

As part of the Horsham District Year of Culture, Horsham Museum has published

a book, revealing the district’s heritage in a list of 100 objects. it involves a vast amount of research, but it may still trigger much discussion! An exhibition is currently being held (until 12 October) to coincide with the book’s publication.

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Fragments of a Mural Crown Pot

Lintott & Son tea caddy

©Toby Phillips Photography/HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

©Toby Phillips Photography/HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

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“A bull ring dates from 1813, the last time the cruel sport of bull baiting was seen in Horsham.” to ensure towns and villages across the district were represented. Some choices were impossible to leave out. After all, how many towns in the world have a dinosaur named after it?

Horshamosaurus is the first object listed, as the first section of the book details the district’s ancient heritage. The Great Horsham iguanodon, the inspiration for a model dinosaur at the world’s first theme park at Crystal Palace in 1854, is also featured.

This photo, taken circa 1919, is thought to show workers at Southwater Brickworks ©HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

Less well known is the discovery of a Mural Crown Pot, dating back to 150-250 AD. Found by the Horsham Archaeological Group, the Roman pot was probably a religious artefact. A lead water cistern - dating back to the 4th century and found in a ditch at Wiggonholt - is equally fascinating, as is the story of the Bronze Age skull unearthed at Cricketfield Road, Horsham. Other oddities and curiosities include the bell set, a unique musical instrument designed in Victorian times and now on display at Henfield Museum, or the 18th century doll found under the floor boards of a Middle Street shop.

When you see the photo, you might wish it had stayed there...

Attwater’s Shop Sign Rusper Chalice, illustrated in Sussex Archaeology Collections ©HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

©Toby Phillips Photography/HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

In terms of local landmarks, castles at Knepp and Bramber are included among the man-made structures. The Wey and Arun Canal was created as a waterway from London to Portsmouth to

18th century doll found under floorboards in Middle Street, Horsham Collections ©Toby Phillips Photography/ HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

avoid the French fleet during the Napoleonic Wars. In a section on religion, the remarkable paintings on the walls of St Botolph’s Church, Hardham, was an obvious inclusion.

Less well known is the Rusper Chalice, the last of its kind in the world. Dating back to the 12th century, it was found in 1840 by the Hurst family.

Some of the stories are poignant, covering themes which resonate with the world today, such as posters for the abolition of slavery that date back over two centuries. Last year, the nation marked the suffrage movement as it was 100 years since some women were granted the right to vote. Two mosaics created in 2018 to mark this anniversary are among the more recent objects in the list.

There’s industry, covering Wealdon iron fire backs, tanning, brewing, tanning and the brickworks at Southwater, as well as relics from farming and agriculture. Objects from long-lost businesses include a tea caddy from Lintott & Sons and 17th century trade tokens.

Sport features prominently, with the inclusion of a 300-year-old legacy from the earliest known local cricket match, recorded in 1719 at Henfield. Stoolball is illustrated with a rare postcard of an early 20th century match at Cowfold, and football a photograph of an

Famous Horsham runner Alfred Shrubb’s shoes feature in the list. ©HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

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A bull ring last used in the Carfax in 1813 ©Toby Phillips Photography/ HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

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County Cricket festival programme from 1931

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©HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

©HDC’s Horsham Museum & Art Gallery

amateur side, Carfax United from 1902-3. But perhaps most incredible of the sporting stories comes from one that died out more than 200 years ago; a bull ring dates from 1813, the last time the cruel sport of bull baiting was seen in Horsham town centre.

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Access to the South Downs and the coast is easy, while Brighton is half an hour by car and London only one hour away.

The book has over 200 illustrations and covers the entire district, from Capons Farm in Cowfold to the Tithe Barn at Sullington Manor.

There are 13 themes covered in the book and as well as extensive details of the 100 objects listed, there is much more on the wellknown landmarks of the district.

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WORDS: JEREMY KNIGHT (EDITED BY BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS/ HDC’s HORSHAM MUSEUM

There really is something for everyone!

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The Heritage of Horsham District in One Hundred Objects exhibition is at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery until 12 October. The accompanying book is due to be launched at the beginning of October.

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ESCAPE AT BLUECOAT OUTDOOR ZONE OFFERS YEAR-ROUND FITNESS A new state of the art outdoor fitness space has opened at Bluecoat Sports Health & Fitness Club at Christ’s Hospital.

The Fitness Yard includes functional fitness equipment designed around Shock Turf, a 4G-like surface which provides a robust, all year-round fitness experience. Equipment in the new outdoor area includes: A custom-built, multi-functional rig for TRX, boxing, callisthenics, group training and more.

Four squat racks with lifting platforms for all types of barbell movements.

Four lane sled track, which can be used for High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) training.

Matrix rowers and HIIT Trainer, the S-Force.

A battle-ready fitness container to accommodate every type of functional fitness equipment.

The equipment was hand-picked by Liam Yeates, Fitness Manager at Bluecoat Sports.

“The Fitness Yard is a way of providing our members and the wider community with a fun and immersive way to train,” he said.

“Our membership is growing and we have ambitious plans to increase the sports and health facilities that we offer. However, until

‘Move-It’ is a HIIT-based class designed to achieve maximal post-exercise benefits. we can do that, we need to be creative in terms of space. So, we decided to use an area behind the gym which wasn’t being utilised to create a fully immersive outdoor training experience.”

“It's something that hasn’t been done before, but our members have responded to it with great enthusiasm. We believe that the equipment and classes on offer will attract people who may not necessarily enjoy going to the gym, but do enjoy group training and HIIT workouts.”

Escape is working in partnership with Bluecoat Sports to deliver a new kind of exercise experience. “Escape Your Limits” is the ethos at its foundation.

Liam said: “We have several instructor-led classes. ‘Move-It’ is a HIIT-based class designed to achieve maximal post-exercise benefits. The workout is varied, with high intensity functional training that engages members of every fitness level. ‘Battle Fit’ is based on military conditioning, as it was developed by former British Army officers.

These are high-intensity 35-minute workouts which push participants beyond their comfort zone.”

Experienced trainers run Escape sessions, and use the Fitness Yard for one-to-one sessions and personal training. All members are free to use the wide range of equipment available.

GREAT ESCAPE

PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS

The fitness team have collaborated with global leader Escape Fitness, to offer the latest functional equipment to use on a day-to-day basis and within a new programme of boutique-style classes.

Bluecoat Sports also invites non-members to try it, offering a day pass for only £6. Call (01403) 247572 or visit www.bluecoatsports.co.uk

EPIC ADVENTURE 93-Year-Old Makes 5,000 Kilometre Tour of Australia

Jim’s grandfather Charles managed a timber yard in Ashington

Jim’s father travelled to Australia just before the First World War

Jim with his trusty 1991 Ford Laser after his solo effort around Australia

In August 2011, when AAH was a fledgling business, editor Ben Morris was at the Ashington Festival, which was to be featured in the next edition.

Whilst chatting to festival organiser Margaret Alford, he met an Australian visiting the village for the first time in many years. Jim Stoner grew up in Ashington before emigrating in the 1950s and raising a family on the east coast of Australia. He was especially proud of his grandson, Casey Stoner, a double World Moto GP Champion.

Ben kept in touch with Jim and then, last month, he sent an account of a remarkable trip he completed in April. Driving a 1991 Ford Laser at the age of 93, he had driven 5,000 kilometres around Australia. It’s not often we venture outside the Horsham District for features, but it’s such a great story, we thought it a worthy inclusion!

Here, in his own words, Jim describes his epic journey...

AUSSIE DREAM I was born in Ashington in 1926.

I lived with my parents and sister in a cottage built by my father. It was named ‘Dongara’, after a town in Western Australia where my father had worked and spoke of fondly. In 1912, as a young man, he arrived by ship at the Port of Fremantle and stayed in Australia for two years, before returning to England to serve in the First World War. He fought on the Western Front, but survived. In later life, he would often talk about his adventures in Dongara.

In 1950, six months after marrying Wynn, the girl of my dreams, we migrated to Australia. I worked on a sawmill in Yetman, New South Wales, for three years, before we moved to Tamworth, NSW. It was there that we raised our three boys.

In 1976, we moved to the warmer climate of the Gold Coast in Queensland, living in the suburb of Paradise Point.

I bought a brand-new Ford Laser in 1991. It was such a treat

“The only way I could really get there was to drive my trusty Ford Laser, which was 28 years old!” that Wynn and I enjoyed a few trips around the state and even went as far south as Victoria once. We were married for 61 years before she went to be with the Lord.

IN DAD’S MEMORY Living on my own and reaching the age of 93, I found life lonely. I would reflect upon my life and had a desire to visit the town that my dad would so often talk about.

Looking across the Irwin River Estuary towards Dongara, Western Australia

My idea was to find out if there were any historical records held in Dongara relating to his visit all those years ago. The only way I could really get there was to drive my trusty Ford Laser, which was 28 years old!

I left on 29 March, stopping every two hours for a rest or sometimes at a McDonalds for a meal and coffee. My first overnight stop was at Morven, staying at Pick-a-Box Cabin Motel. The next day, I couldn’t avoid running over a large, dead kangaroo in the middle of the road. There was so many of them, killed by the huge road trains at night, with crows and eagles feeding on them during the day.

My next stop was at Kynuna, where I stayed and then drove on to Barkly Roadhouse. When I stopped at the shop there, a cockerel approached my car. He and all the hens were feasting on the grasshoppers stuck to the bumper bar!

I drove on to Mount Isa and then into Northern Territory, finally stopping for the night at Palm Tree Motel in Katherine.

The next day, heading for Kununurra, I took a wrong turn and ended up near a deserted motel after driving 56 kilometres the wrong way! Finally, I found the highway and reached Halls Creek is Western Australia!

Finally, on 8 April, I arrived at Dongara and booked into the Old Mill Motel.

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blinds 7 days after your order is placed. What sets me apart from other curtain shops is that I bring the curtain and blind store directly to your front door in my showroom vehicle at a time to suit you, including evenings and weekends. I take away the hassle of numerous trips to the shops to select small samples of fabric and hen imagining what the fabric will look like in your home.

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triciajones11@yahoo.co.uk Huge road trains travel across Australia

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Mighty Oaks from Little Acorns Grow!

Jay in an Oak Tree (RSPB/Chris Moore)

RSPB Pulborough Brooks

Jim with grandson Casey, a Moto GP World Champion with both Ducati and Honda

IN DAD’S MEMORY For three days, I made enquires, hoping to unearth something about my father’s time there in 1912 - 1914. But I had no success. However, I experienced joy in finally being able to see the town where so many years ago my father had worked. I had breakfast at a café on the beach at Dongara, which is a lovely little town about a few hours’ drive north of Perth.

I couldn’t help but think that maybe - in future - it will be like the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. There were quite a few nice homes being

built there. I said “farewell’ to the town and commenced my journey back to Queensland.

RETURN TRIP I drove to Kalgoorlie, Norseman, then across country to Port Augusta in South Australia and on to Broken Hill, New South Wales.

After reaching Broken Hill, I drove across to Nyngan and then on to Tamworth to stay with my son, Colin and his family for two days, before arriving back on the Gold Coast and the comforts of home...

The Ford Laser went perfectly, except the air conditioner broke down while driving through the Northern Territory. I pulled into a garage in the small village of Timber Creek, but the owner wasn’t able to repair it. He spent an hour working on the car to make sure that everything was okay and wouldn’t let me pay him!

I met many other kind and generous people who went out of their way to help me as I made my way around Australia. I praise God for taking such good care of me as I drove around this great country. The Lord was with me all the way!

Autumn has arrived, signalled by the gradual change of the countryside from green to golden, and it is my favourite time of year to go on a woodland wander; kicking through the leaves, risking the odd prickle whilst gathering sweet chestnuts and encountering some wonderful wildlife.

King of the woods is the mighty English oak. Symbols of strength and endurance, growing to well over 30 metres and living for as long as 1000 years, a mature oak tree is home to upwards of a thousand species. The Treecreeper specialises in extracting insects and spiders from the deep fissures in the bark, rare Barbastelle Bats may roost in cracks or under loose bark and Oak Beauty moth caterpillars will munch the leaves.

But it is the acorns that are particularly attractive to wildlife at this time of year. One of the creatures vying for the title of ‘Top Acorn Hoarder’ is the Jay. These colourful crows can be seen flying between woods and over open countryside with their bills and throats crammed with acorns. There are too many acorns for the Jay to eat in one sitting, so it will bury the excess in an underground cache ready to be raided in winter when the food supply is meagre.

It is claimed that a single Jay can hide around 5000 acorns each season whilst it is a clever bird, it cannot possibly remember each and every one, so it inadvertently becomes a tree-planter!

Jim started on the East Coast, headed north west, then across to Dongara, a few hours north of Perth on the west coast. He crossed the south of the country on the journey back to the Gold Coast.

Anna Allum RSPB Pulborough

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