Fine Magazine v5 2017

2017 VOLUME V Focus on... Education

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Activity holidays in Austria

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Festival season

In this issue...

8 THE PEOPLE WHO SHAPED

15 HISTORICAL LEONARDSLEE GARDENS

Find out the stories behind some of the blue plaques adorning the walls of buildings across Sussex and Surrey.

As Leonardslee prepares to reopen its doors to the public for the first time in almost a decade, we learn more about the history of the site.

12 A LIVING HISTORY

18 WILLIAM BLAKE IN SUSSEX:

The Weald and Downland museum near Chichester provides a fascinating glimpse into the way humans have lived over the centuries.

Petworth House is preparing to host an exhibition of William Blake’s work, including pieces painted across Sussex.

11 BUYING AND SELLING PROPERTY

52 PHOTOGRAPHY FOREVER

It can be a legal minefield, which is why having a crack team of solicitors on the case can ease the stress of property transactions. Surrey Hills Solicitors offer tips.

Looking for the perfect gift for your partner or parent?

Alan Wright explains why more families are turning to professional photographers to capture special moments.

20 HISTORICAL FICTION

56 WHOSE BRIGHT IDEA WAS TAX?

Fiction opens the door to history. Try our selection of some of the best researched historical novels currently on bookshelves.

Carolyn Burchell of Composure Accounting and Taxation explains how it all came about.

OUR FUTURE

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BLOOM AGAIN

VISIONS OF ALBION

22 WISTON WINE – A FAMILY AFFAIR

30 SEEFELD – A WINTER WONDERLAND

With English wine taking off, the Goring Family, which owns the Wiston Estate, has invested in developing a vineyard that’s producing award winning wines.

If you’re looking to book a winter sports holiday, look no further than Seefeld in Austria. This resort offers everything for outdoor enthusiasts in the winter months.

24 PROTECTING SUSSEX HERITAGE

48 BALANCED BOARDING APPROACH

From war memorials to telephone boxes, the Sussex Heritage Trust works tirelessly to preserve and protect our built heritage.

To board or not to board? Hurst College helps answer the question with an explanation of its approach to boarding.

58 VAUXHALL INSIGNIA GRAND SPORT

66 FINE DINING

Can Vauxhall’s latest offering give BMW a run for its money?

Our motoring writer, Ade Holder, finds out.

Dining room is much more than somewhere to put a dining table.

Collingwood Batchellor, interior design tips.

64 BIG TREATS FOR YOUR BIG DOG

68 FINE ART

Big Dog World is a haven for big dog owners, stocking everything your big dog needs, from leads and restraints to beds and food.

Jess Myers produces beautiful, lifelike images of all creatures great and small.

In this issue | 5

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A word from the

editor H

ello and welcome to another issue of Fine Sussex and Surrey Magazine.

FINE MAGAZINE LTD finemagazine.co.uk

One of my favourite things about living in the area is the deep sense of history associated with the ancient market towns and villages and the countryside in between.

Perhaps because the Industrial Revolution mostly happened in the north of England, huge swathes of our counties have been left relatively unspoilt in hundreds of years.

Of course, one of the tricky things about historically important buildings and landscapes is ensuring their preservation, while adapting to modern life. That’s one of the things the Sussex Heritage Trust has taken responsibility for. The Trust works to preserve those icons of local history that, without protection, might disappear forever. Examples include our local war memorials and even the old red telephone boxes. Read more about the work the Trust does on page 24.

Similarly, the Weald and Downland open air museum at Singleton near Chichester preserves buildings of historic importance to give modern society a glimpse into how previous generations lived. We asked the museum to tell us what’s new. If you haven’t already been, I’d highly recommend a visit and to whet your appetite, see our feature on page 12.

As a Horsham resident, lover of the outdoors and parent of two young children, I was deeply disappointed when Leonardslee Gardens closed and delighted to hear the property is now in new hands and will reopen

01243 717578

EDITOR Catherine Ross catherine@finemagazine.co.uk

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Philippa French production@finemagazine.co.uk

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

to the public next spring. I can’t wait to revisit this local gem. We asked the team at Leonardslee to tell us more about the history of the gardens and the relaunch plans. They were only too happy to oblige and you can read more on page15.

And finally, part of what makes the history of the area so interesting is looking at how the land is being used now. I visited Wiston Wine Estate to see how the Goring family – Sussex landowners for generations – are taking on the wine industry with great success (see page 22)

Ade Holder Carolyn Burchell Suzanne Sawyer

PHOTOGRAPHY Alan Wright Photography

CIRCULATION distribution@finemagazine.co.uk

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Terry Oliver toliver@finemagazine.co.uk

DIRECTOR Jennifer Oliver

Enjoy the issue and enjoy your autumn and we’ll look forward to seeing you again in November with our Doing Good issue.

Catherine Ross EDITOR

On the front...

Front cover image supplied by Timber Windows.

For more about their full range of windows and doors, see page 62.

The views and opinions expressed in the articles herein are those of the authors concerned and are not endorsed by the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken during the production process, the publisher does not accept any liability for errors that may have occurred or for the views expressed.

Fine Sussex & Surrey 2017 Volume V This publication is protected by copyright. ©2017 Printed in the UK by Foundry Press

A word from the editor | 7

The people who

shaped our future Have you ever looked at a blue plaque on the wall of a building and wondered what the significance is? Fine Editor, Catherine Ross, took a look at the stories behind some of the plaques adorning the walls across Sussex and Surrey. In this issue, we look at the men. Come back next month to find out more about the Sussex and Surrey women who shaped our future.

HG Wells, Woking Visionary science fiction writer, Herbert George Wells, acclaimed author of The Time Machine and The War of the Worlds, lived in Woking for 18 months with his second wife, Amy Catherine Robbins, otherwise known as ‘Jane’. They resided happily at ‘Lynton’, (now 141 Maybury Road).

Soon after his arrival in Woking, Wells’ first science fiction novel, The Time Machine, was published. He spent his mornings at Lynton dealing with correspondence or enjoying the surrounding countryside with Jane. Afternoons and evenings were spent writing and revising proofs.

Wells’s stay in Woking, although relatively

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short, proved to be an extremely creative period, perhaps the most productive of his whole writing career. While living in Woking he planned and wrote the War of the Worlds and the Invisible Man, completed The Island of Dr Moreau, wrote and published both The Wonderful Visit and a pioneering cycling novel called The Wheels of Chance. He began writing When the Sleeper Wakes, another science fiction story, and started on Love and Mr Lewisham. By his own admission, Wells had been working “at a ghastly pace”, and “writing away for dear life” to make his name and fortune.

Wells’ ideas of reforming society had taken hold during his college days. He joined the school’s Debating Society

and developed contemporary ideas of socialism He was among the founders of The Science School Journal, a school magazine that allowed him to express his views on literature and society, as well as trying his hand at fiction; a precursor to his novel The Time Machine was published in the journal under the title The Chronic Argonauts.

Volk’s Railway, Brighton Though not directly celebrating the individual (and technically, not a blue plaque at all) the plaque commemorating the Volk’s Railway that runs from the Marina to the Palace Pier in Brighton owes everything to Magnus Volk, the Victorian electrical engineer behind the endeavour.

The Volk’s Railway is the oldest running electric railway in the world. Along with this pioneering project, Magnus Volk set up the first telephone line in Brighton, fitted his own house with electric lights, demonstrated the fire alarm, which was connected to the police and fire station at the Town Hall and, in 1883, he fitted the Royal Pavilion with electric lights, followed by the Corn Exchange, Dome, Museum, Art Gallery, Library and Pavilion Grounds.

Volk was a true Brightonian. He was born in the city, lived and worked there throughout his life and died there. As well as his professional work, Volk was a regular visitor at Stanford Road School, always leaving rail tickets for the staff and pupils and paying for the School’s Christmas celebrations.

Bradwell Talbot Turner, Littlehampton On a freezing February night in the Norwegian Fjords in the middle of the Second World War, Bradwell Turner took actions that saved the lives of 300 British merchant seamen who had been captured when their ships were sunk by the raiding German battleship Admiral Graf Spee.

The British had already attempted to intercept the German ship, Altmark the previous day, but had been thwarted by Norwegian ships and the narrow fjord.

The Norwegians claimed that they had examined Altmark and found no prisoners.

With no proof that there were British prisoners on board, British forces were forced to breech Norway’s neutrality in an attempt to board the Altmark.

Cossack pulled alongside Altmark and Bradwell Turner made the leap that made him famous, eight feet over icy waters from one ship to the other. Turner is widely reported to have shouted down “Any British there?” and was answered “Yes, we’re all British!” It is claimed that Turner then shouted the legendary line “Come up then, the Navy’s here!” It’s a myth dispelled by Turner himself in a

lengthy interview with the Imperial War Museum, in which he accounts in great detail the events of Friday February 16, 1940. Turner attributes the infamous quote to the “second in command of the boarding party” and adds “it certainly wasn’t me”.

A brief struggle ensued on board, in which six Germans were killed and six wounded while others fled over the ice to the shore.

The 300 British prisoners were liberated and transferred to the Cossack.

It was, as Turner recalled many times in later years, a great moment. He was awarded the DSO.

E. H. Shepard, Lodsworth The man who brought A.A. Milne and Kenneth Grahame’s classic characters to life was gainfully employed as a political cartoonist for Punch magazine.

It was during his time working in house for Punch that Shepard took on the commissions that led to his place in the nation’s heart. In 1923, a Punch colleague introduced Shepard to A. A. Milne. It wasn’t an instant match. Milne wasn’t convinced Shepard’s style was what he was looking for, but the two collaborated on Milne’s book of poetry, “When We Were Very Young.”

Milne was so happy with the finished product, he insisted Shepard work with him again on Winnie-The-Pooh and was so confident of the success of the illustrator’s contribution he arranged for Shepard to receive a share of the book’s royalties.

Milne grew to hold Shepard’s skills in such high regard, he inscribed a copy of Winnie the Pooh with this verse: When I am gone, Let Shepard decorate my tomb, And put (if there is room) Two pictures on the stone: Piglet from page a hundred and eleven And Pooh and Piglet walking (157)…

And Peter, thinking that they are my own, Will welcome me to Heaven.

Shepard wanted to be remembered for his whole body of illustrated works, not just that “silly little bear”, but it is Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore et al whose stories have best survived, and it is Shepard who gave those characters form.

History & Heritage | 9

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Buying & Selling a Property If you’re buying or selling property, your solicitor will become your new best friend. Surrey Hills Solicitors offer some tips to help make sure it goes smoothly. there is a chain, exchange of contracts can only take place when everybody is ready to go and everyone in the chain has agreed the same completion date.

Buying a Property - What is involved in the Conveyancing Process ?

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Once an offer to buy a Property has been accepted by the Seller the Estate Agents will usually circulate details to the Buyers, to the Sellers and to their solicitors at the same time.

The Sellers’ Solicitors send out a pack of information about the Property and we will consider the information and raise legal and practical points that arise from the information that we have been given. In addition, if you have any specific questions we will follow these up too.

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If you need mortgage finance you should make your application as soon as possible as in our experience this will take 2 to 4 weeks. You should also arrange your Survey as soon as possible as once you receive your Survey results there may be further points which we need to clarify with your Seller.

It is very important that a Buyer is completely satisfied with the structural condition of the Property being brought. Once contracts are entered into if any faults are found it will be too late to change the price or withdraw from the purchase.

When we are satisfied with everything we will prepare a report on the Property for you and if you are satisfied with all the information we have provided we will ask you to sign and return the contract and arrange to transfer the deposit which will be paid to the Seller’s Solicitor when contracts are exchanged.

If you are obtaining a mortgage as soon as the mortgage offer has been obtained and we hold your signed contract and your deposit, we are ready to exchange. The completion date, when you actually take possession of the Property, must also be agreed at exchange of contracts. If

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When your Buyers’ solicitors are satisfied with everything you will be asked to sign and return the contract.

At this stage dates proposed dates will be suggested and agreed for completion.

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When a completion date is agreed and both parties are ready to proceed “exchange of Contracts” can take place. This describes the moment in time when the Agreement for Sale is entered into with your Buyer and becomes legally binding. The completion date is the day of moving and is usually 2 to 4 weeks from exchange of contracts.

When Contracts have been “exchanged” the date for completion when the move will take place is fixed.

The Selling Process – You have accepted an offer so what next and how long does it all take?

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has been carried out. Often the Valuer or Surveyor may want some “legal” information checked.

The key to a rapid and trouble free sale is the earliest supply to your Buyers of all the relevant information about your Property. We will ask you to complete Information Forms and a list of items that you may be taking or leaving. The originals (or copies if you only have those) of any documents relating to work done on your Property (even if it was prior to your purchase these documents should have been obtained when you purchased) should be made available. These may be Planning Permissions, Building Regulation Consents, Specifications, Plans or Guarantees.

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The Sellers’ solicitors send out a pack of information about the Property they are dealing with. The information covers a range of points, some of which are technical and some of which relate to practical matters such as boundary ownership, list of contents.

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If your Buyer needs a mortgage their mortgage application will need to be processed by their lender. In our experience this will take 2 to 4 weeks.

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When your Buyers have seen all our papers they may have some more questions to ask. These may arise from the information that you have given or from what we have said about your deeds. We will check everything that is relevant with you. Do not be surprised if there are some more questions asked when the Valuation or Survey

Surrey Hills Solicitors have many years of experience of guiding clients through this process and experience can really help to ensure the process is as smooth and trouble free as possible. The conveyancing process involves a number of parties and so it is not possible to set precise time frames as we are always relying on the other parties doing their bit. However we will always deal with correspondence quickly and efficiently in order to push matters forward to achieve the time frame you want. We are a paperless office which means we deal with all documents and communication electronically and this does speed up the process significantly.

We are always available to speak to you or meet with you and it is that personal touch and the efficient service that has ensured we have a loyal following of clients who have returned to use our services over many years.

When considering buying or selling Property contact Surrey Hills Solicitors Surrey Hills Solicitors please visit www.surreyhillssolicitors.co.uk, pop into their office at 296 High Street Dorking, or call 01306 877592.

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A Living History History is alive and well at Singleton’s charming open air and indoor museum, nestled in the beautiful South Downs National Park. This is a living museum - an atmospheric stroll through 1,000 years of English rural life alive with all the colours, customs and culture of our ancestors.

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ince its beginnings in 1970 the museum today boasts a collection of more than fifty exhibit buildings to explore, as well as six historical gardens, traditional farm animals, heavy horses, domestic and craft demonstrations, and a diverse range of seasonal activities.

In May this year, its newest addition – the impressive visitor centre – was opened to the public by the actor Hugh Bonneville who himself feels a close affinity to the area and traditions of our countryside.

The buildings are a thing of beauty on their own – although a modern timberframed design is in evidence it borrows heavily from to our vernacular past, managing effortlessly to combine the new with the traditional. Clad in traditional materials and roofed (for the most part) with a mix of timber shingles and Keymer tiles – the buildings are destined to mellow beautifully with age.

Visitors are welcomed into the museum via the spacious shop and ticket office, leading to the introductory and interactive new galleries. Opposite you’ll find the stunning waterside café overlooking the mill pond and serving an extensive menu available to the general public seven days a week. This new £6 million investment has been funded through a £4 million Heritage Lottery Fund award and the Museum’s own robust fundraising campaign.

After exploring the three fascinating introductory galleries, visitors enter the open air and can walk to the familiar and iconic Market Square - where live performances take place to entertain and enlighten the audience with knowledge ranging from how the Tudors harvested their gardens to how Medieval criminals were banished to the town’s lock-up!

Two exciting new exhibits, planned for spring 2018, include a Victorian bakehouse and a Georgian dairy. These are currently being constructed adjacent to the Museum’s 17th-century working watermill and together will form a hub of historical food production.

Also on offer is an exciting programme of activities and events for the Autumn to Christmas season, including the annual popular Autumn Countryside Show early next month (7-8 October), traditional family activities for Guy Fawkes, a traditional Christmas Market at the end of November and further Christmas events, such as the ever-popular annual Tree Dressing ceremony and various opportunities to meet an authentic Father Christmas, clad in his traditional green, not red, robes in the atmospheric setting of this glorious Museum.

For more information and to plan a trip to the Weald and Downland museum, visit www.wealddown.co.uk

History & Heritage | 13

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Historic

Leonardslee Gardens

bloom again Described as the finest spring gardens in England, the 200 acre Leonardslee estate at Lower Beeding, near Horsham in West Sussex, attracted some 50,000 visitors a year until it closed to the public in 2010. Now Penny Streeter OBE, a South African-based entrepreneur, has bought the estate and her team is busy restoring the gardens and buildings to their former glory, with plans for a grand opening in March 2018.

History & Heritage | 15

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he landscaped woodland gardens were first planted in 1801 and are listed Grade I on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. Until seven years ago they were a favourite weekend destination for families in Sussex, Surrey and beyond, drawn by the outstanding spring displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolias and bluebells.

Visitors also came to see the 19th-century Italianate style house, listed Grade II for architectural merit, and a unique doll’s house exhibition. A rare colony of wallabies, wildfowl and huge carp in the seven ponds are a further draw.

History Charles II granted the land of St Leonards Forest to his physician, Sir Edward Greaves.

It passed from him to the Aldridge family.

Up until the 19th century, Lower Beeding was largely unpopulated and lawless; the forest was reputed to be a meeting place for smugglers.

The area became more respectable when prosperous families moved there, drawn by the pleasant scenery and views of the South Downs. In 1801, some 400 hectares of the Aldridge estate in the south of the parish were sold to Charles George Beauclerk. He built a house called St Leonards Lodge on the site and began laying out the gardens and park in 1803.

In 1852 William Egerton Hubbard bought the estate; he built the present mansion and continued to develop the gardens, selling the estate to his future son-in law Sir Edmund Loder.

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From 1889 until his death in 1920, Sir Edmund further expanded the gardens and created a large collection of rare wild animals including unusual species of deer, wallabies and a colony of beavers. His son, Robin Loder, took over the management of the estate before putting it up for sale in 2010.

The Mansion The 19th Century, Grade II Listed house sits on a natural terrace above the steep west side of a valley, with wonderful views east and south over the gardens to Hogstolt Hill and the South Downs.

The two-storey, Italianate House was designed and built from 1853 to 1855 by T L Donaldson. The ground floor opens out onto a grand hallway with detailed flooring and an ornate open staircase with internal Tuscan columns.

Leading directly from the main hall is a spacious function room and a dining room.

The first floor landing overlooks the main hall and features an open windowed ceiling, which floods the area with natural light. This then leads into a number of rooms, which were converted to office space many years ago.

The Gardens The gardens were used for filming several exterior scenes for the 1947 Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger film ‘Black Narcissus’, which is set in the extreme north of India. The soil is damp and slightly acid, so it is well-suited to rhododendrons, camelias and magnolias.

The grounds are set in the steep-sided

valley and feature a series of seven manmade ponds, which contain a colony of carp, and were used in the 19th century to provide waterpower for the iron industry.

Forming a combination of parkland, lawn and forest land over acidic sandstone soil, the gardens are home to a colony of wallabies and a number of species of deer, which wander throughout the estate. The two alpine glasshouses are being restored.

The jewel in the crown of the estate is the ornamental rock garden; it features a series of rocky outcrops which combine natural sandstone with artificial Pulhamite rock, intensively planted with hummocks of azaleas, dwarf rhododendrons and dwarf conifers.

The Museum The unique ‘Beyond the Dolls House’ exhibition is located by the main courtyard.

Created by Helen Holland in 1998, and now being restored by her, the exhibition was a major attraction for visitors.

The collection depicts the Edwardian estate and neighbouring villages at 1/12th scale with miniature landscapes and characters acting out day-to-day activities.

Leonardslee Gardens estate will reopen to the public on March 1st 2018 and will also be available to hire for weddings and other events. For all enquiries, contact Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate, Hammerpond Road, Horsham, RH13 6PG, Tel 01403 210228 or email sales@manningsheath.com

History & Heritage | 17

William Blake in Sussex: Visions of Albion

A major new exhibition at the National Trust’s Petworth is the first of its kind to celebrate William Blake’s relationship with Sussex.

Some of Blake’s greatest works from poetry to painting will be displayed at Petworth in West Sussex this winter.

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his exhibition is the first to bring together for display many of the works that were inspired by his experience living in Sussex. Sussex remains the only area outside of London that Blake ever lived, spending three years in Sussex from 1800 to 1803 with his wife Catherine, renting a cottage in Felpham that he described as ‘the sweetest spot on Earth’.

Petworth will re-unite Blake’s works made during his time at Felpham along with later pieces that were informed by the landscapes of the Sussex coast and countryside. The exhibition will include extraordinary works by Blake on loan from the British Museum, National Portrait Gallery and Tate. These will be combined with three paintings by Blake from the Petworth collection and a fourth on loan from the National Trust’s Arlington Court, Devon.

This new exhibition has particular significance to Petworth. Elizabeth Ilive, mistress and then wife to George Wyndham, the 3rd Earl of Egremont, commissioned Blake to paint The Last Judgement, 1808 and Satan calling up his Legions, c. 1800-1805, both of which are usually displayed in the mansion. The Last Judgement is of particular significance given that the watercolour likely features Elizabeth ascending to Heaven with her six children beside an artist that may represent Blake.

These two paintings will be displayed alongside a third painting by Blake, Characters from Spenser’s Faery Queen, 1825, purchased by the Earl of Egremont from the artist’s widow as a philanthropic gesture.

The inclusion of Blake’s work at Petworth stands as the only example of his work within an English country house collection.

This suggests the patrons had a forward thinking taste in art which led them to commission visionary paintings from an artist largely unheard of during his own lifetime, considered mad by his contemporaries and someone who had been tried for sedition.

Elizabeth Ilive’s role also demonstrates a revolutionary woman of the period by taking an active role in commissioning artists.

Andrew Loukes, Exhibitions Manager, said: “William Blake in Sussex is not only a subject of great local interest but also of national cultural significance, not least because the famous lines that were later adopted for the song Jerusalem were written in the county.

“It’s very exciting to be mounting the first exhibition to re-unite many of Blake’s Sussex-related works, especially at Petworth – the only great English country house to hold major paintings by the artist.”

An unmissable addition to the exhibition, on loan from the British Museum, will be the hand coloured relief etching of Blake’s illustrated epic poem Milton, of which only four are still in existence. Written and illustrated between 1804-1811, the preface to Milton, ‘And did those feet in ancient time’ was adopted for the anthem Jerusalem.

One of the illustrations for display from the poem depicts Blake’s conception of Milton; a spirit of John Milton, the author of Paradise Lost, in the shape of a comet landing on the foot of Blake.

A second illustration, of the cottage at Felpham, overtly references Blake’s experiences in Sussex, with the text ‘In Felpham I saw Visions of Albion.’ Blake’s The Sea of Time and Space, 1821, a watercolour of a stormy coastal scene will also be a part of the exhibition. Discovered at Arlington Court above a wardrobe in the housemaid’s pantry when the house was given to the National Trust in 1947, little is known of how – or why – it came to be there.

Alongside this will be a parallel exhibit showing the original drawings by the author and President of the Blake Society, Philip Pullman, made for the internationally acclaimed His Dark Materials books that echo John Milton’s epic Paradise Lost.

These chosen illustrations will feature as part of an immersive experience in the Red Room using projections, sound and text to connect these Miltonian works within the wider context of the exhibition.

Early booking is recommended for William Blake in West Sussex: Visions of Albion, at Petworth from 13 January to 25 March. Entry is by pre-booked, timed tickets only, which are on sale from 5 October from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth or 0344 249 1895. £12 for National Trust members or £16 for non-members, ticket includes entry to the gardens, parkland and selected rooms in the house.

Image top to bottom: The Characters from Spencer’s ‘Faerie Queene’, c.1825. National Trust Images/John Hammond The Sea of Time and Space, 1821. Pen and ink and watercolour on paper (Arlington Court, National Trust) Satan calling up his Legions (from John Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost’) by William Blake (London 1757 - London 1827). National Trust Images/Derrick E Witty A Vision of the Last Judgment, 1808. National Trust Images/John Hammond Opposite page: Portrait of William Blake by Thomas Philips, oil on canvas, 1807. National Portrait Gallery, London

History & Heritage | 19

Historical fiction What better way to discover more about the past than by picking up a great book and transporting yourself right there? Fine Editor, Catherine Ross, looks at some of the best recent historical fiction.

The Faithful by Juliet West, published by Mantle As the Nazis were growing in power in Germany in the late 1930s, so the British Union of Fascists, or the Blackshirts as they were colloquially known, were making their own attempts to become a political force on this side of the Channel. In her second novel, local author, Juliet West, explores the impact the Blackshirts had on the local population. Kicking off with a summer camp in Aldwick on the Sussex coast in 1935, the novel is told through the eyes of a young woman, Hazel, who enjoys a brief liaison with a young Blackshirt man. Their dalliance has far-reaching consequences and over the following years their paths merge and divide incorporating life in London and Sussex, the rise and fall of British fascism, the Spanish Civil War and the outbreak of World War Two. West is a terrific character writer. Each character is complex and well-rounded and we are given the opportunity to meet each one individually to better understand their stories. The difficult relationship between young Hazel and her vibrant, borderline alcoholic mum, Francine, feels particularly raw. West’s research and attention to detail is also flawless, making the whole novel, the situations, the characters’ responses and the overall mood of the book feel entirely plausible.

Despite being set 80 years ago, many of the themes in The Faithful feel particularly relevant today. The way Hazel’s Blackshirt friend, Lucia, speaks of the Jews could come straight from the mouths of Britain First or the English Defence League. The sense of division, fear and uncertainty echo the impact of the Brexit referendum. Perhaps this novel should be read as a warning to help us all avoid the terrible mistakes of eight decades ago.

The children of Jocasta by Natalie Haynes, published by Mantle Whether you love the classics and thought you knew everything there was to know about the Oedipus story or you know only the basics, this novel is a work of literary brilliance. Natalie Haynes won the Classical Associateion Prize for her work in bringing Classics to a wider audience and has written and presented two series of the BBC Radio 4 show, Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics. In her authors note at the end of the novel, Haynes describes her motivation for wanting to write the novel, she compares classic versions of the Oedipus story, from Sophocles to The Odyssey.

In The Children of Jocasta, Haynes tells the story through the eyes of Jocasta – Oedipus’ mum/ wife – and Ismene, their youngest daughter. In alternating paragraphs it tells the two women’s tales, each starting when the relevant protagonist is 15 years old. It incorporates everything you might expect from a good Greek tragedy; forced marriage, attempted murder, scheming families, fratricide, plague, politics and pestilence, but with a greater insight into the characters.

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More re than anything, anythi Conf ssions of a The Confessions Young Nero offers an absolutely fascinating insight into life in ancient Rome.

By her own admission, Haynes “plays fast and loose” with the stories of several characters, but as the tale has been reworked countless times over the millennia, it seems entirely fair enough.

The town of Thebes and its royal family are brilliantly brought to life at Haynes’ keyboard, with the central theme of the story never explicitly proven one way or another. For a 2,500 year old story, parts of it seem thoroughly modern, not least the way a woman, whether Jocasta or Taylor Swift, can be deified one minute and brought down the next.

To Die in Spring by Ralf Rothman, published by Picador Back to World War Two, this German bestseller follows the lives of two young, German farmhands after they are “forced to volunteer” for the Waffen-SS towards the end of the war. The two are deployed separately, one to drive for a supply unit, one sent to the front lines in what are the desperate, bloody final days of the war.

This novel, translated into English by Shaun Whiteside serves as a reminder that German civilians were victims of WWII just as much as our own countrymen. As a country with an acute sense of where it has come from, it is not surprise that Germany’s writers are addressing the “sins of the past” in their literature.

It’s difficult these days to imagine the impact of life at the front on a young mind. Easy, then, to sympathise with Fiete, the young character who deserts, only to be captured and sentenced to death.

Overall, it’s not an easy or particularly pleasant read. By the end of the war, German troops were living in squalor and manners and social niceties had long gone out of the window. But for an insight into life on the other side, look no further than To Die in Spring.

The Confessions of Young Nero by Margaret George, published by Macmillan What do you know of the emperor Nero? That he fiddled while Rome burned? That he was a sex fiend and tyrant? If these are your assumptions of the man, you’re not alone, but Margaret George saw a different story. Through extensive research, George has discovered a man of integrity, ingenuity and generosity, a visionary in architecture, engineering, diplomacy and artistic freedom. Of course, he was living in ancient Rome, so his tale is not without escapades and brawls.

Although the book is very much a novel, it’s a novel in the way Wolf Hall is a novel. The characters are all based on real people doing the real things they did at the time. The events and interactions are based on known facts and genuine accounts.

George’s bibliography and research sources are extensive. Place and people names are a bit of a mouthful.

More than anything, The Confessions of a Young Nero offers an absolutely fascinating insight into life in ancient Rome. George works in the traditions and rites of passage, like “assuming the toga”, which Nero was given permission to do two years earlier than the standard 15th birthday and represented graduation to “adult status”.

While, at times, Nero comes across as little more than a spoiled brat, his story is engaging and compelling and well worth revisiting

History & Heritage | 21

Wiston Wine – a family affair Wiston Wine – a family affair Wine from the Wiston Estate Winery in West Sussex is attracting critical acclaim and a loyal client base from across the globe.

Fine Editor, Catherine Ross, popped down to Wiston to find out what makes it great.

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or a relatively new vineyard, it is clear wine is what makes the folk at Wiston Estate tick. Originally pitched as an idea by family matriarch, Pip Goring, when she first arrived on the estate in the 1970s, it took 30 years and calls from several Champagne vineyards before the family started looking at the possibility seriously.

Hailing from South Africa, Pip was used to being surrounded by the lushness of nature’s bounty in the form of the thriving wine trade. While the chalk land of the South Downs offers perfect pasture for grazing sheep, it is not known for rich soils that will sustain more complex crops. But Pip had visited the Champagne Region of France and knew chalk made for successful vineyards. As our climate has changed, offering increasing quantities of sunshine, our local agriculture industry has adapted and wine has become big business across the south east.

The Goring family’s estate covers 6,000 acres of Sussex, including swathes of the South Downs way and local beauty spot, Chanctonbury Ring. The vineyard, first planted in 2006, now covers 16 of those acres. Because of the size of the estate, the family, along with resident wine maker, Dermot Sugrue, were able to choose the very best land for cultivating grape vines. The south-facing slopes offering the best of the summer sunshine have been carefully planted with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier vines.

The grapes are very sensitive to the climate. As Kirsty Goring explains: “The wine harvest is really set in the spring.

If the covers are on at Wimbledon, we know we will have smaller yields, but that doesn’t mean we won’t grow outstanding grapes. In 2011 we didn’t have many grapes, but because the vines weren’t heavily laden with fruit, the individual grapes had more space to grow and receive sunlight, so after our scorching September, we had an incredible harvest. The perfectly ripe fruit from 2011 went on to make one of England’s most awarded rosé wines ever.”

Wiston is releasing its first magnums this autumn made from their inaugural 2008 vintage. There is definite buzz around a wine that has been their cellars for over eight years and of which there are only 150 bottles. As Kirsty says “Every year the conditions are different and we will choose the best style to reflect that unique vintage”. Fans of Wiston’s style of dry, focused sparkling wines are already getting excited about the launch.

While making excellent wine is the Goring family’s true focus, there’s also a real commitment to sustainability and the local community in the way the estate is run.

They’ve invested in a special rotavator to turn the soil between the lines of vines, enabling them to weed the soil without chemical herbicides. The Estate was strongly represented at the recent Steyning Food & Drink Festival, offering vineyard tours to local people and a recent

staff barbeque brought together staff from across the estate to celebrate ahead of the grape harvest.

While it’s often said that from tiny acorns, the mighty oak trees grow, in this case from the tiny seed of an idea thirty years ago, this magnificent wine family has grown.

History & Heritage | 23

Protecting Sussex Heritage Sussex Heritage Trust is a registered charity established in 1977 to preserve, improve and encourage the appreciation of the architectural and natural landscape of Sussex. Helen Reeve, from the Trust tells Fine what the charity does.

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ussex is one of Britain’s most beautiful counties. Relatively unscathed by the Industrial Revolution, some of its buildings and landmarks date back hundreds of years. As we march into the 21st century, the Sussex Heritage Trust aims to:

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Recognise and celebrate high quality conservation, restoration and new build projects in Sussex

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Take a strategic interest in Sussex building and landscape conservation issues

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Highlight, survey and report on Buildings at Risk

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Work with government agencies, local authorities and community groups on heritage projects

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Offer relevant educational opportunities for young people based in Sussex.

As part of the Trust’s commitment to highlight and report on Buildings at Risk, the Trust has launched a campaign to save the remaining K6 telephone boxes in Sussex. In partnership with BT, the Sussex Association of Local Councils and the South Downs National Park Authority, The Sussex Heritage Trust prepared and published a guide offering advice to local communities wishing to work with others either to maintain telephone boxes in their areas for their original purpose, or to modify them for alternative uses. The campaign has received strong support from the local community and on social media.

One huge opportunity in the preservation of the county’s built heritage is the education of young people working in the construction industry. Working with the Weald & Downland Living Museum and funded by the Historic Houses Association, we have put in place a programme of bursaries to increase and enhance the educational opportunities for young people based in Sussex, working in the construction industry. This scheme makes a significant contribution to ensuring the continuation of traditional building crafts and skills, essential if older buildings are to be sensitively restored and refurbished. We are responsible ourselves for just one such building, the early 19th-century Ashcombe Toll House at Lewes, a domed, circular building with a vaulted roof, which is the sole survivor of a pair that marked the beginning of the Brighton Turnpike. The building is open to the public once a year as part of the Heritage Open Days.

However, the focus of the Trust’s work remains the annual Sussex Heritage Trust Awards scheme, which is designed to recognise and reward high quality conservation, restoration and good design of newly built projects and encourage the use of traditional skills and crafts. Winners

receive a hand-crafted slate plaque to attach to the winning project. There may also be Highly Commended projects in any given category. All parties involved in the winning projects receive certificates.

Over the past 19 years Sussex Heritage Trust has presented over 350 Awards and the Awards scheme is now established as the most prestigious architectural and conservation awards programme in Sussex.

In 2017 there were 26 Awards and 16 Highly Commended projects announced.

Winners included the Hound Lodge in Goodwood, Chichester, the i360 in Brighton and the Depot Cinema in Lewes, the former Harvey’s Brewery depot site, which now houses a 3-screen independent cinema with community and film education facilities. Other winners included the Community Playcentre@ Walberton creating a purpose-designed, sustainable community building and Trinity Medical Centre and Pharmacy, which saw the conversion of a redundant Grade II listed Church into a medical centre. The 2018 Awards scheme will be launched early in the New Year at the Depot Cinema in Lewes.

2017 marks the 40th anniversary of the Sussex Heritage Trust. To celebrate, the Trust’s president,The Rt. Hon. Lord Egremont and Lady Egremont are kindly hosting a celebratory black-tie dinner on 6th October at Petworth House.

The dinner will highlight the Trust’s continued focus to work to support the conservation movement in Sussex and to raise much needed funds for the charity.

For further details about the Trust please have a look at www.sussexheritagetrust.org.uk

History & Heritage | 25

Surrey Hills – For business and pleasure, for local food and drink Silent Pool

© Ellie Bowman

Surrey Hills is renowned for its landscape of spectacular natural beauty and is home to outstanding local food and drink as well as pubs, hotels, restaurants and catering services. Local produce grown or made in the special landscape of chalk downlands and wooded valleys range from local cheeses and meat to locally brewed beer, high quality sparkling wine and locally distilled Gin and other spirits (whiskey and Calvados style apple brandy in the near future.)

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ineyard tours, wine tastings, farm visits and local events and activities are all available making the most of the special character of the Surrey Hills and its natural heritage.

Surrey Hills Enterprises works with local businesses to support the rural economy and to promote, protect and enhance the beautiful Surrey Hills. As a Community Interest Company, funds generated from its work goes directly back to support the work of enhancing Surrey Hills, its landscape and local communities.

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Members of Surrey Hills Enterprises are part of a growing community of businesses who have been awarded the Surrey Hills Trade Mark and are coming together to support each other and the special Surrey Hills Heritage.

Inspiring local businesses such as Norbury Park Farm Cheese Company, a small family run business based at the foot of Box Hill near Dorking. Founded by Neil and Michaela Allam, the company makes handmade artisan cheeses, including Surrey’s only Blue Cheese, the well-known Norbury Blue and Dirty Vicar.

Coverwood Farm Coverwood Lakes, Gardens and Farm nestles within a stunning wooded valley near Peaslake (midway between Guildford and Dorking) in the heart of the Surrey Hills. The Farm produces local lamb and beef from its established herd of pedigree Herefords and sheep and plans to provide a centre for other farmers to process meat not only for local but regional sale.

Last year, a Food and Drink event was hosted by Coverwood as part of the yearlong Surrey Hills Enterprises Cow Parade which raised significant funds for local charities.

Surrey ey Hills Enterprises Enterp al bu works with lo local businesses to support the rural economy and to promote, protect and enhance the beautiful Surrey Hills

© John Powell

Nick Wenman Albury Organic Vineyard

The special nature of the Surrey Hills and particularly the chalk downlands, which have the same geology as the Champagne region in France, make it home to multi award-winning vineyards from vines grown exclusively in the Surrey Hills.

High Clandon Estate Vineyard founded by Sibylla and Bruce Tindale lies on the chalk hills above Clandon and produces high quality sparkling wines. Albury Organic Vineyard founded by Nick Wenman is based on the southern slopes of the Surrey Hills, just outside Guildford and produce high quality organic sparkling and Rose wines. Denbies Wine Estate based in Dorking has become one of the largest wine producers in the UK and produce red and white wines as well as sparkling wines, Rose and dessert wines. Vineyard tours make an excellent way to explore and enjoy the stunning Surrey Hills landscape.

Coverwood Farm

Locally produced spirits and ales have an equally impressive record. The Silent Pool Gin distillery is based on the banks of the spring-fed Silent Pool east of Guildford within Surrey Hills.

It is internationally known for its high quality hand-crafted spirits including the

Silent Pool Gin distilled with 24 unique botanicals of which many are sourced locally. Tillingbourne Brewery, are an award winning micro-brewery producing some of the finest hand-crafted ales in the South East. They are located close to the picturesque village of Shere, and takes its name from the river which starts as a spring on Leith Hill.

In 2018 Surrey Hills celebrates its 60th Anniversary since it was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As part of the celebrations there will be a range of Surrey Hills events and activities including food, drink and local artisan events, a Wood Fair, art festivals and much more.

We are proud of the diverse local food, drink, produce, crafts and places to stay that bring life to the Surrey Hills landscape – we think you’ll love them too. Use our members directory to help you experience the best of the Surrey Hills. Find out more and sign up for our e-newsletter www.surreyhillsenterprises.co.uk

Surrey Hills Enterprise | 27

30 years of making dreams come true

As people increasingly “self-package” their holidays online, there’s still space in the market for local, expert travel agents who can use their knowledge and industry contacts to put together your ideal holiday. Symphony World Travel has been doing just that for 30 years.

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ocal travel agent, Symphony World Travel, is celebrating 30 years in business this November. Owned by brother and sister team Anthony Raffaini and Simonetta Nutt the business is very much a family affair – the Fetcham office was opened by Anthony’s wife Lucia in November 1987. “Following the success of our Kingswood office we felt we could do the same in Fetcham, offering the local community an excellent travel service on their doorstep” says owner, Anthony Raffaini.

All they needed to do was find a shop for rent, which was harder than it seemed - they really wanted to be in the heart of the village however there were no premises available. Sim, Anthony and Lucia walked up and down the familiar parade of shops approaching each business until they found the current premises at 220 Cobham Road. The lady that owned the shop, a newsagent and old fashioned sweetshop, was looking to retire so the match was perfect and a deal was done. The project to bring the shop up to Symphony standards was a challenge however after weeks of toil and many a sleepless night, the Fetcham branch of Symphony World Travel opened its doors.

Anthony was so exhausted and exhilarated in equal measure at the end of the successful opening day, he was escorted back to his house, 2 glasses of Champagne in hand!

When asked what has been their proudest

moment, Sim and Anthony both commented “Starting a business from nothing!” Coming from an entrepreneurial family, Sim and Anthony were encouraged by their father to combine their expertise and set up on their own. Having gained invaluable experience in separate travel businesses, Symphony World Travel was born - first came the Kingswood branch and the Fetcham branch was opened three years later.

Since 1997 Symphony World Travel has become very much part of the village community and has continued to provide the best in travel expertise. Jan and June have been part of the furniture for 12 and 20 years respectively and new to the team is Emma who herself comes with a wealth of experience. Between them they have travelled to all four corners of the globe and have a tale or two to tell about their travels. Always happy to chat and inspire, they welcome familiar and new faces into the Fetcham office for a cup of coffee and to talk about your next holiday.

Things have changed a lot in the past 30 years and the world of travel has seen amazing diversification. The growth of new and exciting destinations as well as the expansion of the worldwide travel network has taken the discerning client away from the package holiday and into more intrepid adventures. It has been an exciting time and interesting to grow with these changes as a company. Symphony World Travel really is THE local expert in

Between etween them th they ve trav lled to all have travelled four corners of the globe and have a tale or two to tell about their travels providing travel advice and booking your perfect holiday whatever your chosen destination.

Over the years they have built up strong relationships with key travel partners, bolstering up their already superb knowledge and ensuring exceptional value for their clients each time. Specialist partners such as Classic Collection, Tailormade Africa, Elegant Resorts, Seabourn, AmeriCan & Worldwide Travel, Mark Warner, Titan, Wendy Wu and family owned property, Calabash in Grenada provide a wealth of trusted channels for booking the perfect holiday.

To celebrate 30 years of successful trading, the Fetcham office of Symphony World Travel will be holding an open day on Thursday 23 November 2017 – pop down and join them for a glass of Prosecco or a cup of tea and have a chat to the team and some of their favourite travel partners.

Symphony World Travel: Trusted. Experts.

Without compromise.

Symphony World Travel 22 Cobham Road, Fetcham, KT22 9JQ, Tel: 01372 375361 email: emma@symphonyworldtravel.com, jan@symphonyworldtravel.com or, june@symphonyworldtravel.com or visit www.symphonyworldtravel.com

Travel | 29

Seefeld –

a winter wonderland

Looking for an active winter break? Jenny Oliver recommends the Seefeld region of Austria for outdoor adventurers of every age.

SPECIAL READERS OFFER Aktiv-Hotel Veronika has agreed to offer a FREE return airport transfer service from Innsbruck Airport to the hotel .

If you add the password – fineveronika – to your booking, this transfer will be complementary for both journeys.

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n winter, the Tyrolean Olympiaregion Seefeld boasts a breath-taking natural backdrop and a host of winter sports to delight the whole family.

Surrounded by the largest nature reserve in the Eastern Alps – the Naturpark Karwendel – the Wildmoos landscape protection area, the Wetterstein range and the Hohe Munde massif, the southfacing mountain plateau at an altitude of 1,200 metres, offers a sun-blessed setting in the heart of the Austrian Alps.

The Olympiaregion Seefeld is the first place every year to be visited by the winter. By December, the landscape is covered in a thick white layer of snow and

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the region, with its vast network of tracks, is ready to welcome cross-country ski fans and winter hiking enthusiasts. Immaculately groomed, award-winning cross-country ski tracks – ~150 kilometres for classicstyle and ~120 kilometres for skating-style skiing - offer perfect conditions.

For fans of alpine skiing, Seefeld Ski Arena offers no fewer than 31 ski-runs and 32 state-of-the-art cable-cars, chairlifts and ski tows ensuring winter fun for skiers and snowboarders. From beginners to experienced skiers to those ‘re-finding their skiing feet’ after a break from the sport, Seefeld Ski Arena offers holidaymakers a second-to-none,

sunshine-filled ski holiday in high alpine terrain. The youngest skiers enjoy lots of fun in the superbly designed and equipped children’s ski areas.

And for those who have still not had enough of their favourite sport after the sun has gone down, the region boasts several floodlit pistes and crosscountry tracks.

Those guests who prefer to walk rather than ski can enjoy 142 kilometres of cleared winter walking trails to breathtaking panoramic viewpoints with wonderful huts and restaurants.

Dinner was a gourmand’s delight. The innovative chef successfully blended Old Austrian Cuisine with a modern, up-todate touch. I particularly enjoyed the starter of fish mousse and prawn crackers with a carpaccio of red and yellow beets.

If you still had space after 4 courses you could indulge in the extensive cheese board. Vegetarians were spoilt for choice.

WHERE TO STAY For your full enjoyment of this beautiful Tyrolean resort I would highly recommend a stay at the AktivHotel Veronika where we stayed for a wonderful fortnight this summer.

The public areas such as the bar are beautifully wood-clad and cosy. An open fire awaits the cold winter evenings where you can relax after a hard day’s winter or summer activities. The Brandy Alexander was a perfect end to a perfect day.

The hotel has been owned by the same family since they started it in 1927 when skiing first took off as a sport in Europe.

Over the years the first modest guest house has expanded to a luxurious 55-rooms\suites mega-chalet with every modern comfort and convenience.

The charming bedrooms offer you a huge choice of conformation: from triples with separate upstairs bedrooms with en-suites to penthouse rooms. All of them have large balconies with tables and chairs from which you can enjoy the views across to the mountain peaks surrounding Seefeld.

Families are especially welcome in this hotel but couples are also carefully looked after with quiet rooms and their own places in the extensive restaurant. Not that noise is an issue as the hotel is tucked away just outside the village centre and very quiet.

In the basement is an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, sauna, relaxing area and massage room more like the type of facility found in five-star establishments.

A variety of beauty treatments can be booked at the front desk.

Most guests take the half-board option that includes a four-course dinner and this is to be recommended. www.aktivhotel-veronika.at/en/ +43 5212 2105

omelettes made to order, smoked salmon, cheese and cold meat platters, fresh fruit, cereals, homemade breads and rolls and wonderful cakes. We opted mostly for ice-coffee at lunchtime before returning to the hotel at 4pm to indulge in tea/coffee and homemade gateaux which are all included in the above option.

The breakfast buffet is as comprehensive as you could imagine. Available up to midday, the buffet tempts you with everything from

Now to the staff who really made our holiday something special. Charm, politeness, combined with efficiency helped to make our stay so enjoyable and relaxing that we intend to return to this charming hotel next year. I am looking forward already and hope to introduce some of my family to this wonderful place.

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There’s no better place to spend the festive period

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our time at The Roundabout Hotel is always time well spent.

Especially over the festive period, our buzzing restaurant & bar are filled with Christmas cheer and a magical atmosphere with open log fires you will love.

Whether you’re joining us for a work Christmas party, catching up with friends over a couple of crafted festive cocktails in our bar area or sitting down to a delicious family dinner, our expert, friendly teams will make you feel totally welcome and relaxed.

Our festive menus, made with fresh, quality, seasonal ingredients, feature a range of flavoursome dishes. From a traditional succulent roast turkey with all the trimmings to an indulgent, rich dark chocolate torte and a luxurious dessert

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– all beautifully done like only we can.

Christmas at The Roundabout Hotel really is wonderfully unique.

Party Nights December 8th 15th 22nd, call us for more details.

Christmas Bookings Please note, there is a required deposit of £10 per person to secure all festive bookings. Once you have booked a festive meal with us, a member of our team will be in contact to arrange payment.

For more information visit www.theroundabouthotel.webs.com or call 01798 817336 to speak to a member of the team.

We have Christmas all wrapped up for you Book now for your festive experience!

Monkmead Lane, West Chiltington, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 2PF t: 01798 817336 e. roundabout@southcoastinns.co.uk w. theroundabouthotel.webs.com

Kangaroos – here’s what they do There are a myriad of charities working across Sussex and Surrey to enhance the lives of the local community. Each issue, we look at one of those charities to shine a light on their efforts. In this issue, we meet Kangaroos, a charity providing fun activities for children and young adults with learning disabilities and complex medical needs.

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Established 22 years ago with only six children, Kangaroos now accommodates over 200 families.

There is an increasing demand for Kangaroos services and the charity relies greatly on financial support.

Please consider making a donation towards to this wonderful local charity, which greatly needs your help.

This is where Kangaroos hops in!

Many parents say that the charity is a lifeline to them allowing them precious quality time to get on with everyday things that we all take for granted, as well as being able to spend time with their other children.

WHAT WE DO Kangaroos is a local registered charity based in Haywards Heath, which provides a range of fun, inclusive year round clubs and trips out, in and around Mid Sussex, for children and young adults with learning disabilities and complex medical needs.

Kangaroos’ aim is to enrich the lives of their members and their families, and by attending their clubs, the youngsters have opportunities to socialise, learn new skills, become more independent of their families and increase their confidence, self-esteem and social inclusion within the community.

o ping with a new baby, bringing up children and dealing with hormonal teenagers with all the challenges that life brings can be difficult at the best of times, but when they have a learning disability or special needs this adds a whole new dimension, putting incredible pressure on families.

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www.justgiving.com/kangaroos/donate www.kangaroos.org.uk Tel: 01444 459108 Reg charity no: 1150202 Company no: 8273898

Christmas at Nymans Saturday 2 December – Tuesday 2 January 10am – 4pm

rry e M s a m t s i Chr Celebrate the festive season with us, as we take a closer look at some of our well-loved nursery rhymes. See the decorated Christmas trees, follow the children’s trail in the winter garden and visit the exhibition in the gallery: ‘Sing a Song for Sixpence’. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Nymans, Handcross, West Sussex RH17 6EB

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places such as Nymans for ever, for everyone. © National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

Christmas Menu available throughout December when booked in advance

Open 7 days a week Bar open for coffee and drinks Mon-Sat 12-11 • Sunday 12-9 Lunch Monday – Saturday 12-3 • Dinner Monday – Saturday 6-9 On Sundays we serve our delicious Sunday roast in addition to an array of seasonal dishes 12-6 Christmas Party Night on Friday 15th December- 3 course dinner and DJ. (The details will be on the website.)

The Bat and Ball Country Pub and Haywards Restaurant Newpound Lane • Billingshurst • RH14 0EH www.haywards-restaurant.co.uk • enquiries@haywards-batandball.co.uk 01403 700199 36 | fine

Character & Charm this Christmas The Bat & Ball Country Pub is housed in a very special building. Built in the 16th century, it has been a bakery, drapers, barbers, alehouse, grocery shop and brewery. Documents state the central part of the building with oak pegged beams is the oldest and was originally thatched.

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n establishment with so much heritage means our customers are blessed with a quirky building providing a unique environment in which to celebrate special occasions, enjoy family time or indulge in a romantic evening.

The dining room is the heart of the restaurant. It is the first area guests see when visiting The Bat & Ball and it does not disappoint. Open plan and tastefully decorated, the dining room is perpetually a buzzing hub of excited diners.

With different rooms, areas and nooks, customers often find their favourite spot and we are happy to reserve this for you.

Our different areas make it a prefect place

to hold any celebration, The snug area is perfect for private functions and intimate dining. A separate room, it allows guests to enjoy each others company away from other diners. The snug is a popular choice for those celebrating and having parties, seats 8-14.

The Lounge is light and airy with an open log fire in the winter and a large openfaced window front in the summer. As the name suggests, The Lounge is cozy, providing a homley setting for customers to relax in whilst still being provided with a full restaurant menu and attentive table service. Diners can also bring wellbehaved dogs to accompany them for lunch or dinner in the lounge, seating on tables of 2-10.

A roaring fire, sumptuous food and a warm welcome make the Bat and Ball a perfect place to have your festive celebration, our special Christmas menu is available if booked in advanced. Book now and don’t be disappointed.

If you haven’t visited us before or are thinking of holding a celebration or function at The Bat & Ball Country Pub, give us a call on 01403 700199.

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From design to reality

3 Smithbrook Kilns, Horsham Road, Cranleigh Surrey GU6 8JJ www. simonpure.co.uk • 01483 273111

Christmas Cheers

For many, Christmas is about spending time with friends and family, enjoying delicious food and creating happy memories.

The Three Crowns, a family owned pub set in the heart of the pretty Sussex Village of Wisborough Green, makes the picture perfect Christmas venue.

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he pub with its eclectic interior, crackling log fires and cosy seating areas makes for a warm and welcoming home from home, ideal for catching up with friends and family over the Festive Season.

Open all the way through the Christmas period with a delicious selection of menus.

As a pub that is renowned for its great use of fresh local ingredients festive menus include hearty seasonal classics, traditional Christmas fair and Three Crowns imaginative creations. Imagine cosy afternoons in front of an open fire enjoying delicious festive afternoon tea or enjoying family dinner with loved ones in our private dining room. Open on both Christmas Day and New Years Eve our celebration menus include champagne on arrival and wine on the table.

The Christmas spirit certainly comes into its own in the gardens at The Three Crowns. Every December Beautiful World Tents uses its tipis to create a winter wonderland. The Nordic style giant hats with fairy lit interiors warmed by crackling open log fires and reindeer hide adorned seating makes a magical venue. Now in its fourth year, the ‘Tipi Festive Feasting’ which includes live music from local band ‘Jukebox 6’ and three course traditional feast make the ultimate Christmas party night. New for 2017 are Tipi Tribute Saturdays; come and enjoy Christmas with The Ratpack and Frank Sinatra, a night with The Almost Elvis Band or The Men

who fell to Earth, Brighton’s very own David Bowie tribute.

For those stuck for Christmas gift ideas why not visit The Three Crowns Christmas Popup shop, selling Artisan Sussex Gins and Bubbles to Socks in a Box by Peper Harrow and Christmas bouquets by local florist Juliette Phipps. For the green fingered why not book a Wreath making lunch here at the pub. A festive lunch with Prosecco and arrival coffee and mince pies as well as a tutorial and personalised Christmas wreath to take home.

Our gift vouchers also make the perfect gift idea, and can be used as full or part payment against anything from a romantic dinner for two, a bottle of premium champagne or wine to share, a sumptuous Sunday lunch, or any of the other many things here to enjoy at The Three Crowns Inn. Our vouchers provide a perfect and original present for Christmas, as well as birthdays, weddings and anniversaries, and for business they provide a fantastic staff incentive, reward scheme, performance prizes or seasonal bonus.

One of the favourite nights of the year is Village Night, when all of the local residents join us for Mulled Wine and mince pies. The local Wisborough Glee singers entertain all with some beautiful carol singing and everyone gets in the festive spirit. A night of memories with all

of our friends and neighbours are made which is truly what Christmas is all about.

Come and enjoy Christmas with us, we look forward to welcoming you.

For menus and any further information please visit our website at www.thethreecrownsinn.com or contact events@thethreecrownsinn.com

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Nutrition:

A history

While nutrition may seem like a 21st century science, Fine readers may be surprised to learn that messaging about how what we eat impacts our health have been around for millennia.

In 400BC, the Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the ‘Father of Medicine’ said to his students ‘Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food’. He realised the importance of food on a person’s health, body and mind to help prevent illness as well as maintain wellness.

Since ancient times, food has been used to affect health. For instance the juice of a liver was squeezed into the eye to treat eye disease now known to be caused by a vitamin A deficiency. Garlic was used to treat athlete’s foot and eating ginger was thought to improve the metabolism.

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n the 17th Century, the French author La Rochefoucauld said ‘To eat is a necessity but to eat intelligently is an art’.

Human nutrition refers to the essential nutrients necessary to support human life and health.

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In 1747 a British Navy Captain discovered through experiments that giving sailors limes prevented them from developing the life threatening disease of scurvy. Thus British sailors became known as ‘Limeys’ as they were given limes on every long voyage to keep them scurvy free.

In 1912 a Polish doctor, Casimir Funk, coined the word ‘vitamins’ as essential factors in the diet. The term vitamin, first called ‘vitamine’ comes from the words

‘vital’ and ‘amine’ – compounds derived from ammonia. The first vitamin pills were marketed in the 1930’s and created a new industry around science based health products.

In 1925, Dr Harry Finkel, in his book ‘Diet and Cookbook’, warned about the perils of overeating and devoted a section of the book for ‘foods for the stout person’. He wrote that being ‘stout’ has not one thing to commend it, declaring that ‘the stout person’s food costs more, his clothing is more expensive, his appearance does not emplify the Grecian type of beauty, always physically handicapped, is more susceptible to disease and dies at an earlier age than his less corpulent brother’. ‘Why be so stout when it is easy to be normal’ he said.

It would seem that obesity was as much a problem in the 1920’s as it is today. He also observed that ‘the dominant factor in removing obesity is food’. How very true!

Suzanne Sawye Nutritional Therapist Healthwyze www.healthwyze.co.uk

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| 45

WE ARE THE COUNTRY’S LEADING BOARDING SCHOOL FOR SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES.

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Balanced boarding approach Flexi and weekly boarding, the popular choices for children and parents at Hurst College 48 | fine

Caty Jacques, Deputy Head Pastoral said: “I think it is much easier to fully immerse yourself in the school community when you stay the night. You can embrace the ethos and values of the school and really feel part of it. I worked at a school for 11 years where there was full boarding and the biggest complaint from parents was that they felt as if they were totally out of the loop and cut off from their children.

This is the first time I have worked in a school with flexi boarding, and I am completely sold on it.”

Hurst’s weekly boarders, with increasing numbers from the London market, can stay Sunday to Thursday or Monday to Friday, removing the stresses of a daily commute and allowing more time for co-curricular activities and study.

Housemaster Adam Hopcroft, said: “Boarding gives pupils a work-home balance. School life is busy, so boarding provides pupils with the chance to take part in extra-curricular sport, drama or music after school.”

The benefits of boarding extend far beyond the extra-curricular options.

Adam believes boarding gives pupils an advantage academically. “Boarding pupils have more access to their teachers as well as their friends. Our pupils work in study groups during Prep and we make sure they are productive during this time. If they work well it allows them to have a more relaxed weekend.”

B

oarding at an independent school falls into three categories; full boarding, weekly boarding and flexi boarding. Whilst full boarding involves living at school seven days a week and weekly boarding five nights a week, flexi boarding allows pupils to board for three nights of their choice.

Different schools operate their boarding in different ways, at Hurst College, the boarding community is made up of flexi and weekly boarders, as the college has now moved away from full boarding.

Hurst believes that these two options allow students to make the most of the educational and co-curricular opportunities during the week, and then enjoy their home life with their families at the weekends.

Housemistress Fran Williams said: “Most parents have now moved away from the full boarding idea, as nowadays they actually want to see their children, which is lovely. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Flexi boarding is a huge attraction, as it really is flexible, with pupils able to choose their nights even at short notice, while retaining their own bed throughout the term. It is also seen as a halfway house between being at home and boarding.

As all pupils participate in co-curricular activities many find this particularly beneficial, as do parents who need to juggle a busy lifestyle.

Kathren Lea, Housemistress believes that a boarding environment gives students a strong foundation for their future. “As boarders children have to learn skills for life, which is preparation for their future. Our girls grow up in a supportive environment and it becomes their second home.”

In modern families where both parents are working full-time and childcare is expensive, boarding means parents don’t need to worry about the school run every day and can be confident that their child is being well looked after. This leaves weekends free for quality family time.

For children, boarding is a way to spend more time with their peers, be better prepared for the school day and have more time to take part in a range of extra activities.

Headmaster Tim Manly explains: “At Hurst, we offer a balanced approach to boarding. I am not a great fan of the full on, send your child away for several weeks with no time off for good behaviour, type of full boarding. Essentially we are trying to strike a healthy balance between school and home. Boarding means that pupils are able to engage with a rich and textured life within strong communities but also maintain contact with parents and family. We want our students to develop in all sorts of good ways, not least a sense of independence and individuality, but also the ability to work in a team with others and to understand what it means to be a fully functioning human being and live not just for oneself but for other people as well.”

Education | 49

It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey

Rewarding children for: ConďŹ dence, Curiosity, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Commitment and Craftsmanship For a private tour, please call our Registrar on 01444 483528 or visit www.greatwalstead.co.uk *Claxton, G. and Lucas, B. 2015. Educating Ruby. Carmarthen, Wales: Crown Publishing.

Photography forever In this modern, digital age of smartphones, fewer and fewer of us are printing photos, meaning the priceless memories of yesteryear are fading faster and faster. Fine Editor, Catherine Ross, met with local photographer, Alan Wright, to find out more about why families are opting for professional photo shoots.

“In years gone by, people would have shoeboxes full of photos. Every so often, they’d pull out the shoebox and take a walk down memory lane. These days, people have drawers full of old mobile phones instead and we’re losing that tactile opportunity to interact with our own history.” Says Alan Wright, a

52 | fine

professional portrait photographer based in Billingshurst, West Sussex.

Alan’s seen a steady increase in the number of people booking family photo shoots to commemorate special family occasions. “Often, we’ll have three generations of one family, including

assorted children and pets. The grandparents love it, because they get to get all their children and grandchildren together and often make a day of it, going out for a celebratory dinner afterwards.

We have family members flying in from all over the globe to make the occasion and the photos really special.”

Handing over the photos remains a career highlight: “The look on peoples’ faces when I show them the finished product is absolutely priceless and knowing I’ve helped them create something they’ll cherish for a lifetime is a real honour.

Alan started his career as a professional photographer in 2009 when he left the IT industry in search of a more fulfilling career. “I’m a very visual person and photography marries a technical side with an emotional side that’s both compelling and really satisfying,” he says. Alan is largely self taught, relying on the internet for tutorials in the early days and training with renowned photographers to hone his skills and develop new techniques.

“Gaining the knowledge is never ending and every photography session is different, so even though I’ve been doing this for the best part of a decade now, I’m still learning every day.”

For anyone thinking of booking a family photo shoot, Alan has given Fine a handy “what to expect” guide.

Phone consultation – each booking starts with a discussion over the phone to agree dates, locations and outfits, discuss who’s involved and flag any potential issues.

Pre-shoot confirmation – one or two days before the shoot, we’ll do a last minute

weather check. I only ever book one session in a day to give us plenty of time to work around sudden rain showers.

On the day – the session itself takes 90 minutes to two hours. I find everyone’s energy shifts quite a lot over the course of the session, so children might be running around all over the place at the beginning, but will be ready to be picked up for cuddles towards the end.

Post session – within two weeks of the shoot, we’ll have a viewing appointment.

I’ll edit out the photos that are no good and pick 30-40 of the best ones to show clients. Each one of these will be hand edited.

The viewing – this is the client’s first opportunity to see the photos. We’ll look at the photos together on an iPad and discuss framing options. I’ve become an expert at holding things against walls to give a sense of what the finished products will look like!

Delivery – my favourite part of the whole process when clients get to see the finished product, fully framed and ready to hang on the wall. Along with the physical prints, clients have the images stored on an online gallery available through an app and can download files for a year, giving clients a virtual gallery in their pockets.

There’s still time to book a shoot before Christmas. Visit www.alanwrightphotography.co.uk And if you’re stumped for what to get your loved ones for Christmas, gift vouchers are available to buy online.

| 53

It’s good to talk ‌

about inheritance

Families in the South East appear to be shying away from difficult conversations about inheritance matters. Wealth management firm Brewin Dolphin wants to encourage families to talk about estate planning – before it is too late.

A

s a nation we remain buttoned-up when it comes to talking about inheritance. Almost half of families in the UK say they have never discussed inheritance matters, according to new research commissioned by Brewin Dolphin1.

Our own region is no exception. In the South East of England 45% of people admitted to never discussing the subject with loved ones.

The research1, carried out by Opinium, provides a fascinating insight into a topic which we ultimately all can’t avoid. A quarter (25%) of people in the South East said they haven’t discussed the subject because they don’t think they are old enough for it to be a priority. Many find the idea of discussing inheritance uncomfortable: one in six (16%) admitted that they don’t like talking about death.

Lee Clark, Head of Financial Planning at Brewin Dolphin’s Reigate office, says: “Talking about estate planning is an extremely emotional subject as people generally don’t like talking about death or money. However, our research shows that around one in 10 people in the South East would like to talk about it but haven’t found the right time, and some people just don’t know where to start. We want to help people start these conversations so they don’t leave it too late. ”

Tackling the myths One reason for failing to act is the misconception that estate planning is only necessary if you are really well-off. High house price growth in recent years means that even families who would never think of themselves as wealthy have a potential inheritance tax (IHT) liability.

Everyone is entitled to pass on assets of up to £325,000 IHT free. This is called the nil-rate band. An extra allowance is available when a residence is passed on to a ‘direct descendant’, called the residence nil-rate band (RNRB). In the 2017-18 tax year, the RNRB is £100,000 per person.

This means a married couple with children can pass on a maximum of £850,000 in total without having to pay IHT. Any excess over that amount is taxed at 40%.

Regardless of whether your estate is large enough to pay IHT, it is still necessary to plan. After all, most of us would like to leave a legacy and are keen that our wishes are followed after we die.

Start with the simple things Making a will is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your estate goes to who you want and that your wishes are carried out.

put off until the last minute, by which time it may be too late to make a difference.

Creating an estate plan does not have to be difficult, and the sooner you start the better. Talking about inheritance is a vital first step. Once you have started the discussion, a financial planner can help build the most appropriate estate plan to meet your needs.

1.

Opinium surveyed 4,012 UK adults online between 11th and 17th August 2017.

2. GOV.UK: Inheritance tax

Gifting money while you are alive is another easy way to reduce an IHT liability, - and watch loved ones benefit from your wealth. You can give away £3,000 each year and this will not be subject to IHT. In addition, parents can gift £5,000 to each of their children as a wedding gift, while grandparents can give £2,500.2 Gifts of any size to charities or political parties are also tax free. If a gift is regular, comes out of your income and does not affect your standard of living, any amount of money can be given away and ignored for inheritance tax.

It is possible to make further tax-free gifts – potentially exempt transfers - but you have to survive for seven years after making the gift to get the full benefit of it being outside of your estate for IHT purposes.

If reducing an IHT liability is a high priority, other options are available, from using your pension to pass on wealth to employing trusts or making use of Business Property Relief schemes.

Don’t leave it too late There are a surprising number of legitimate ways to reduce an IHT bill. So many, in fact, that former home secretary, Lord Jenkins of Hillhead called IHT “a voluntary tax, paid by those who distrust their heirs more than they dislike the Inland Revenue.”

Reigate: 45 London Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 9PY | t: 01737 223 722 London: 12 Smithfield Street, London EC1A 9LA | t: 020 3201 3900

Disclaimers The opinions expressed in this document are not necessarily the views held throughout Brewin Dolphin Ltd. Please note that this document was prepared as a general guide only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. While we believe it to be correct at the time of writing, Brewin Dolphin is not a tax adviser and tax law is subject to frequent change. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances; therefore you should not rely on this information without seeking professional advice from a qualified tax adviser.

The information is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as investment advice.

The information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

Brewin Dolphin is an award-winning wealth manager, specialising in creating bespoke financial plans and investment portfolios for individuals, charities and pension funds.

However, our research1 suggests that many families’ failure to plan is more a matter of reticence than distrust. This reticence means that estate planning is

This is the life | 55

Whose bright idea was tax?

“Robin Hood, Robin Hood riding through the glen…”

No, not the Sheriff of Nottingham.

Carolyn Burchell of Composure Accounting and Taxation explains.

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There were only around half a million taxpayers by the time of the Crimean War in the mid-19th century when the tax rate peaked at just under seven per cent. Even at the start of the Second World War only one in five of the working population were paying income tax. By the end of the War, this number had tripled to 12 million – a pretty steep jump in such a short time. It was also at this time that the system of deducting tax at source via PAYE was devised. Until then only the Bank of England had been allowed to withhold tax. Pop quiz: how many individual taxpayers are subject to income tax these days? Not including companies who got their own tax in 1965.

Answer at the bottom – no cheating.

Amusingly, both Gladstone and Disraeli promised to repeal income tax in the run up to the 1874 General Election.

No prizes for guessing what actually happened. Disraeli won. Income tax stayed. In spite of his description of income tax as “unjust, unequal and inquisitorial”. It is generally thought that Gladstone would have done the same.

During his own, legendary five-hour Budget speech in 1853, Gladstone had, however, introduced the concept of offsetting expenses against income provided they are incurred ‘wholly, exclusively and necessarily’ for the purpose of the trade. This fundamental rule forms the basis of income and corporation tax laws today and is a mantra I recite with my clients. Back then you were allowed to offset the cost of keeping a horse for work purposes. I imagine that the computations were a bit less complicated than the CO2 emissions and private fuel adjustments that modern taxpayers have to consider for their own mode of transport.

Photo by Sophie Ward Photography

We might moan about the amount of tax we have to pay these days but it is almost impossible to imagine the rate of tax that was imposed on some taxpayers during the Second World War – a staggering 99.25%. The fifties and sixties were not much kinder with rates peaking at 90% and it was not until the premiership of Margaret Thatcher, who was a believer in indirect taxation, that rates started to drop. It was 1988 before tax rates approached anything like the 20% and 40% that we have today

and increases in other taxes – namely National Insurance and VAT - have made up some of the shortfall. Looking ahead to 2018, forecast total public revenue is £744 billion made up of: Public Revenue £billion 55 244 317 130

Income and capital gains tax

National Insurance

Indirect taxes

Business and other revenue

In spite (or maybe because of) the Office of Tax Simplification, the last decade has seen volumes of additional tax laws.

I feel that I should also say that huge strides have been made to improve comprehension and remove ambiguity mainly through a big effort to use plain English. Much of our current framework is simply consolidated case law, some of which dates as far back as the 18th century. For example, the definition of a partnership remains unchanged since the Partnership Act 1890 and the Capital Allowances Act 2001 description of what constitutes plant (as in plant and machinery) is derived from the case of Yarmouth v France (1887).

Quite a few clients have asked me what the impact of Brexit will be on tax in the UK. Naturally leaving the EU will have a knock-on effect to our economy which will impact our tax regime. But, of all the taxes we pay, VAT is the European tax. Prior to 1973, the UK had ‘Purchase Tax’ which was a consumption tax charged at different rates according to how luxurious each item was deemed to be. Although the theory behind the two taxes is similar, VAT is paid for by the recipient of the goods or service whereas it was the manufacturer who was responsible for Purchase Tax. No one expects VAT to disappear post Brexit but the UK will no longer be governed by the Sixth Directive which promotes harmonisation between member states and sets out rules for what rate is applied to various goods and services. What happens next remains to be seen but I think this sums it all up neatly: “History repeats itself. So you might wanna pay attention.”

Quavo - American hip hop artist

For more advice on this or any other accountancy and taxation issues, contact Carolyn Burchell and her Team at Composure on 01403 211865 or email cburchell@composureaccounting.co.uk

According to HMRC there were 30.7 million taxpayers in 2014-15happens

A

ctually, tax as we know it was devised by William Pitt the Younger in 1799 driven by the need to finance a Napoleonic war. Initially he only levied taxes on property, woodlands, “trade, profession or vocation” and Crown appointments although he did finish off with a jolly-old ‘anything not covered by the above’. Oddly though, employment income was not included because employees were not considered important enough to be liable for income tax until 1816. Once peace had been made with the French, these first taxes were abolished, only to be swiftly reintroduced when funds were needed for the next war.

Your money, your business | 57

Insignia – Grand Sport It seems Vauxhall is going up in the world. Fine’s motoring writer, Ade Holder, takes it for a spin and offers his take on the Insignia Grand Sport.

C

ar reviews fall into two main categories. The first is a general review of a model and the second is a specific review of a certain iteration and spec level of said model. General reviews are great but in some cases the top level option is something a little special and needs to be treated differently. This is one such case; the new Vauxhall Insignia may be amazing across every single option but the Grand Sport version I was sent to test is certainly a car to write (home) about and deserves its own platform.

Big Game Hunter!

When talking about the luxury/ business market you have to be aware that Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Jaguar pretty much rule the roost. Vauxhall have always made rather good “rep mobiles” and some very solid cars but they have always struggled to make a high end option. Well, the new Insignia might not be a £60,000 BMW but it is certainly going after some of the big rivals and it is well armed!

Outside The new look Insignia is a very pretty car.

This may or may not be selling point for some people but it doesn’t look like a Vauxhall at all. Most people I encountered almost had to ask what the car was which certainly gives you some idea of the difference. It is sleek, low and has a wonderful poise about it. The grille and lights make for an aggressive but not over the top look while the not so subtle lines and frankly stunning rear lights really give it an air of real style.

Grand and Sport Sport version Spo vers I was sentt to tes test is as se te certainly a car to write (home) about and deserves its own platform.

Inside Once you open the door you are invited into what initially appears to be a very high end cabin. That is not to suggest it is not a very nice place to be but it is here you start to just feel a hint of the lower asking price. However, it would be hugely unfair to say that the Insignia fails to deliver. The interior is great, it matches the sleek exterior well just don’t

expect to find BMW levels of refinement covering ever inch.

Toys There is no doubt the Grand Sport is well kitted out. The head up display is brilliant, it is actually a real display shown on the inside of the windscreen. Showing the speed at eye level does wonders for avoiding any 30+ creep; you simply can’t not notice your speed. There is a huge range of other electronic kit in there too, most of which seems useful, some of which is a little fiddly to work out. Again, this is where you can perhaps just get a slight feeling of a lower cost but there is enough to keep almost everyone happy.

Performance Sadly it is here that the Grand Sport is a little let down. Perhaps it is only to be expected but a top spec car of this type should have some pretty serious grunt and the Insignia just doesn’t quite deliver.

While the 2.0 litre turbo petrol engine will get to 60mph in just under seven seconds, it does it in a fairly uneventful way. Perhaps that is the issue, it is more how it does it than what it does. The engine noise sounds a little like its being augmented by the stereo system which is never good and it just doesn’t really set your world on fire. That being said, performance is not really what the car is offering. The handling is superb, again, not eventful, but superb nonetheless. The all-wheel drive system is taken from the Focus RS and it certainly works wonders.

All in all the Grand Sport is a great car and it’s great value at around £26,000.

That is simply light years cheaper than a German rival with similar spec and certainly one with an all-wheel drive system and 260 bhp. It may not be a German muscle car but for many people its great looks, stylish interior and long list of toys will be more than enough; and so it should be because the Grand Sport offers a lot of bang for anyone’s buck.

Motoring | 59

In the

diary

Autumn is always a busy time for diaries. October half term often sees Halloween themed activities at all our favourite local attractions. Hot on its heels, bonfire night can be enjoyed at myriad locations across Sussex and Surrey. Apart from that, we’re celebrating harvest and heading towards Christmas.

30 September to 4 November

30 November to 17 December

SHOCKTOBERFEST AT TULLEY’S FARM

GLOW WILD WINTER LANTERN FESTIVAL AT WAKEHURST

The most popular Halloween attraction in Sussex, Shocktoberfest adds new gruesome scares each year.

Don’t miss out on a truly terrifying time. For families with younger children, Tulley’s is also offering a daytime “Spooktoberfest” from 14-29 October with plenty for kids to do without the nightmare inducing antics of the night-time festival.

17 to 19 October CANDLELIT TOURS AT HATCHLANDS PARK See the house the way it would have been illuminated in days gone by. In our digital age of toxic blue light, there’s something particularly magical about candlelight and firelight. This atmospheric afternoon will give you a warm glow on the chilliest of days.

18-22 October TASTE OF AUTUMN AT RHS WISLEY The orchard is laden with fruit and the garden is awash with colour. Prepare to be tempted by quality food and drink stalls, pick up advice, be wowed by displays and exhibitions, and much more at this autumn event.

This magical, after-dark walk will get your Christmas off to a wonderful start. Wind your way along a path lit by glowing lanterns, through the botanic gardens and out into the woodland.

Toast marshmallows over giant fire pits and enjoy winter warmer meals in The Stables restaurant.

2 December ARUNDEL BY CANDLELIGHT Christmas doesn’t start until Arundel

by Candlelight. Enjoy live music, festive food and drink, a hand-picked Christmas market and the popular lantern parade in one of our most beautiful towns. Homes and businesses will be adorned with traditional real Christmas trees with simple white lights and the town’s Christmas tree, donated by the Duke of Norfolk will decorate the town square.

24-26 November

21 December

WEALD AND DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM CHRISTMAS MARKET

BURNING THE CLOCKS, BRIGHTON

Find a perfect gift and enjoy a great day out at the Museum. The annual bustling Christmas Market sees over 120 stands ‘pop up’ in our collection of rescued historic buildings and houses, in the museum’s award-winning Gridshell building and around other locations on the Museum site. Visit craft and trade stands, selling arts, crafts, food, unusual gifts and enjoy festive music and tasty seasonal treats to sample and buy.

60 | fine

The winter solstice sees thousands of people gather to make paper and willow lanterns to carry and burn on the beach to mark the shortest day of the year and to greet the lengthening days.

Chasing Our indoor Our indoo showroom in an environment that the love of beautiful cars that understands under and is free from sales pressure.

O

ur indoor showroom is an environment that understands the love of beautiful cars and is free from sales pressure.

It is a rare place where customers and enthusiasts alike can compare rival marques under one roof. The service department is always busy, servicing and repairing Morgan, Noble and TVR, and again has an enviable reputation in this area due to the knowledge and expertise of the technicians, one of whom has over thirty years’ experience in these marques.

Mole Valley’s reputation is such that customers return time after time and many cars are sold unseen to customers over the phone in the UK and overseas.

As a TVR Heritage dealer, Mole Valley will be eagerly awaiting details of the new car, which is being designed by Gordon Murray and will be powered by a new Cosworth V8 engine.

For this and the full range of Mole Valley’s prestige brands, visit the showroom and workshop on the A24 between Dorking and Horsham where you will be assured of a warm welcome whether looking for a new car or just to browse and dream!

Ferrari 360 F1 Spyder

www.mole-valley.co.uk

Registration: 2004 Mileage: 30,000

£79,995

Aston Martin Vantage

Audi R8

Registration: 2007

Registration: 2008

Mileage: 42,500

Mileage: 34,000

£38,495

£46,495

Horsham Road (South of Dorking A24) www.mole-valley.co.uk Sales 01306-710088 Service: 01306-710099

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Big treats for your big dog Big Dog World supplies premium dog foods, natural dog treats and accessories such as collars, harnesses, tough toys and chews, beds, coats, training products and grooming supplies from their new premises in Rudgwick, next to the Firebird brewery.

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... hee struggled strugggled to find fi ducts suitable uitabl for products his Newfoundland, Elvis...

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eil Stanton launched the company in 2010 when he struggled to find products suitable for his Newfoundland, Elvis, and found there was nobody in the UK specialising in products for large breeds. After working for almost 10 years as an IT and website manager in the public sector, he was made redundant in June 2010 and immediately set about searching for products and putting the website together.

Seven years on and the company now has thousands of customers from all over the UK and internationally. Their ethos is simple: quality products at great value prices with fast reliable delivery and unbeatable customer service.

With free delivery and discount prices on hundreds of products, they are one of the highest rated online pet shops on Trustpilot (the independent customer review site) with a rating of 9.8/10. Their service has also earned them a semifinalist position in the 2014 “Britain’s Friendliest Business” awards, and winner of the 2011 “Young Business of the Year” in the Surrey Business Awards.

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| 65

Take your

Dining Room to the Next Level

The folk at Collingwood Batchellor understand your dining room is much more than somewhere to put a dining table. The need to make your room a comfortable and relaxing environment is more important than ever, which is why they’re oering their top tips to help you kit yours out.

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our dining room isn’t just a place for eating; it’s a place where you can gather with family and friends – and it’s also one of the main focal points in your home. So, it’s important to invest some time in creating a dining room that ties in with your lifestyle.

Choosing a Dining Table The options really are endless when it comes to dining tables, but there are a few things to think about when whittling away the unsuitable from the ideal. The most important factor to take into account is size; if you have a large family then a bigger dining table makes sense, while smaller spaces will necessitate the need for something more compact. Either way, extending dining tables can often make the most of the space in your home – allowing you to entertain extra guests while also saving space.

Our top tip when choosing a dining table for size is to measure up and outline the space you want to fill with masking tape.

This way you can assess how much room you’ll have to move around the table, and also see the impact it makes on the rest of the room as a whole.

The next step is to decide on the material.

Dining tables made from wood are the most common and durable you can buy, and represent an easy way to get that designer look everyone’s striving for.

Glass is another option and will work well in modern settings, while the reflective surface will serve to brighten up dining rooms that need a little extra light.

Complete the Set in Style – Dining Chairs For a long time it was common to choose matching dining table and chairs, but while this is the easiest way to complete your dining set, opting for designer or statement dining chairs can provide a more interesting look. Opt for chairs that complement your table but aren’t exactly the same style – fabric chairs in neutral colours can add a lot of depth to a wooden table, and small details such as button-back features or curved backs will add a stylish look that’s sure to impress.

...opting for designer or statement dining chairs can provide a more interesting look

Show Off your Accessories Most people keep their dishes and accessories tucked away in storage until they’re needed, but showing off your plates, cutlery, candles and placemats can easily contribute to the overall design. If you don’t use your dining room every day then giving your accessories a chance to shine can be a great way to take your dining room from functional to elegant – without having too big an impact on your budget.

The alternative would be to display your favourite pieces on a nearby sideboard, but the important point to takeaway is that your favourite accessories are now on show instead of being hidden away for no one to see.

Collingwood Batchellor y o u r

h o m e

Make a Big Difference with Lighting Light is a big factor in every room around the home – and the dining area is no different. If you have a larger room then sprucing up your space with a chandelier can really help to add a decorative feel – and will do wonders for what can sometimes be a bare space. Alternatively – with smaller spaces – utilising hanging pendant lights, floor lamps and wall lights can make sure your dining room is never too dim. Either way, think about where the natural light is scarce and seek to improve the balance of light throughout the whole room.

Blinds, Window Coverings and Walls Sometimes you can use your window space as a way to bring texture and pattern to your dining room. Traditionally, dining rooms are usually filled with simple, functional furniture and as a result there isn’t always a lot of colour. Dining rooms tend to rely on accessories to bring the best out of the space – and one way to do this is by fitting patterned blinds or curtains in a theme that’s conducive to the colour scheme. Floral, quirky and colourful designs draw your focus and can be easily changed to freshen up the room’s feel as the year goes on.

Adding something a bit funky is a great way to give your dining room an artistic focal point, and as well as curtains and blinds you can achieve the same effect with colourful artwork for the walls.

Smaller spaces will benefit from the introduction of wall mirrors to reflect the natural light and make the room appear larger – proving an inexpensive way to decorate your dining room.

A Quick Word on Storage Storage often serves one purpose in the dining room – to declutter and store.

However, it’s becoming increasingly popular to bring open shelving to the dining area, allowing you to create a multifunctional space the whole family will love.

Open shelving provides additional storage for plants, books and ornaments – meaning a diverse living space that’s certainly going to catch your eye – something the simple sideboard often struggles to do.

So, there you have it – our quick guide for kitting out your dining room. More in depth tips can be found in store and online at collingwoodstores.co.uk, although you can always give our friendly team a call on 01293 224859 for more information on the dining room furniture we offer.

Interiors | 67

Fine Art

Jess Myers is a young and hugely talented local artist who grew up near the Cathedral City of Chichester and who specialises in creating detailed pencil drawings.

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hroughout her educational years Jess’s interest and passion for art grew, leading her to undertake a fine art degree at the University of Chichester. Here she tried many different mediums, but in her final year rediscovered a love of pencil drawings and has been exploring their capabilities ever since.

Beginning with the weathered faces of older people from Far East Asia, her human portraits explored the idea of beauty and narrative. Since graduating with a 2.1 in 2014 she has moved onto animals, drawing everything from Lions and Chimpanzees to Hedgehogs and Spaniels.

Her animals are driven by a strong and unwavering love for the creatures we share our planet with and aim to capture the character, personality and beauty of each subject. The eyes have become a focal point of each image and attract the viewers gaze in a way that allows them to really connect with the subject.

Jess has just finished exhibiting at the Arundel Gallery Trail for a third year running. It is here that she exhibits and sells her framed originals, although she is hoping to exhibit at more venues over the coming years. It was in preparation for her first Gallery Trail that Jess decided to have her images printed on a range of greeting cards. This has since expanded to include prints and Tote bags, which is where Jess Myers Designs was born. The ultimate goal is to develop her own product range of home wares and accessories, still exhibiting and selling the originals, but expanding on to cushions, mugs and china.

Jess says “I’ve found that in today’s modern age of digital media and technology, the significance and capabilities of the simple pencil are often greatly underestimated.

I’m drawn to pencils because of their ability to achieve absolute precision, yet remain versatile enough to be reworked and erased numerous times over”.

Jess’s gallery and products are available to view and purchase on her website www.jessmyersdesigns.co.uk or you can contact her via email on jessmyers@btinternet.com.

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Horsham, West Sussex A bespoke award winning contemporary new home

KnightFrank.co.uk/Horsham James.Machell@knightfrank.com 01403 339180

Horsham station 1.6 miles, Gatwick Airport 13.9 miles, Central London 39.5 miles Last of four brand new luxury homes situated on a quiet Sussex country lane in this stunning, tranquil location, yet close to Horsham town centre with all its amenities and convenient commuting. Further incentives are available for proceedable buyers.

Guide price: ÂŁ 1,495,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/HOR170136 @KF_HomeCounties KnightFrank.co.uk

Brooks Green, West Sussex A newly built 6 bedroom detached property for sale near Horsham

KnightFrank.co.uk/Horsham James.Machell@knightfrank.com 01403 339180

Billinghurst 4.6 miles, Horsham 5.8 miles, Pulborough 10 miles, London 49 miles A striking newly built country property drawing from both the Lutyens and Arts & Crafts VW\OH VHW LQ DQ HQYLDEOH SRVLWLRQ ORRNLQJ WRZDUGV 7KH 6RXWK 'RZQV b7KH SURSHUW\ LV D wonderfully designed newly built house which has been carefully constructed with styles from both Edwin Lutyens and the ‘Arts & Crafts’ era.

Guide price: £ 2,295,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/HOR160208

@KF_HomeCounties KnightFrank.co.uk

Horsham 35 Carfax, Horsham RH12 1EE 01403 886860 | horsham@struttandparker.com

West Sussex | West Hoathly

Guide Price ÂŁ3,250,000

A beautifully designed country house with stunning entertaining space and separate cottage in glorious Sussex countryside.

Reception hall | Kitchen/breakfast room | Expansive drawing room with dining area | Games room and gym | 2 cloakrooms | Store room, boot room and utility room | Master bedroom suite | 4 further bedrooms (two en suite) | Family bathroom | Wrap around south and west facing terrace | 2-bedroom detached cottage | EPC: C Gardens and grounds of about 46.3 acres

Horsham Edward Jackson | 01403 886860

/struttandparker

@struttandparker

struttandparker.com

60 Offices across England and Scotland, including Prime Central London

Horsham 35 Carfax, Horsham RH12 1EE 01403 886860 | horsham@struttandparker.com

Surrey | Felbridge

Guide Price ÂŁ2,500,000

An exceptional 18th century country house within fabulous lakeside gardens bordering Hedgecourt Lake.

Reception hall | Kitchen/breakfast room | Utility room | 4 Reception rooms | Master bedroom suite with dressing room and nursery/study | 6 further bedrooms (3 with en suite bathrooms) | Family bathroom | Wine cellar | Swimming pool and pool house | Extensive garaging with workshop/store, log store and gym/studio | Beautifully landscaped mature gardens | EPC: D Gardens and grounds of about 6.45 acres

Horsham Ken Roberts | 01403 886860

/struttandparker

@struttandparker

struttandparker.com

60 Offices across England and Scotland, including Prime Central London

EAST PRESTON, WEST SUSSEX A SUBSTANTIAL DETACHED PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE EXCLUSIVE AND HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER WILLOWHAYNE PRIVATE ESTATE Reception hall, cloakroom, ‘l’ shaped sitting room with archway to dining room, conservatory, fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility, study,g/floor bedroom with en-suite, further reception/bedroom, master bedroom with en-suite, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, west facing rear garden, integral double garage, less than 1/2 a mile to the beach, total plot of approximately a 1/3 of an acre.

Guide Price £950,000

EPC rating E

Arundel 01903 885 886 arundel@jackson-stops.co.uk

WEST WITTERING, WEST SUSSEX LOCATED IN A CONVENIENT POSITION FOR THE LOCAL AMENITIES AND BEACHES OF EAST & WEST WITTERING, A BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED DETACHED PROPERTY THAT HAS BEEN SIGNIFICANTLY EXTENDED AND MODERNISED BY THE CURRENT OWNER. Partially vaulted reception hall, sitting room/bedroom 4, kitchen/dining/living room, utility room, cloaks/wet room, study, ground floor bathroom, ground floor bedroom, 2 first floor bedrooms, bathroom, garage, garden, 2 driveways.,

Guide Price £850,000

EPC rating C

Chichester 01243 786316 chichester@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

NEWDIGATE, SURREY A FINE EDWARDIAN HOME WITH EXTENSIVE OUTBUILDINGS SET IN ABOUT 32 ACRES WITH GLORIOUS RURAL VIEWS Entrance Hall, cloakroom, sitting room, dining room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, boot room, utility/further cloakroom, four double bedrooms, two bathrooms/ shower rooms, delightful formal gardens, fenced paddocks and fields, circular exercise track, ancient woodland, swimming pool, ten indoor stables, four further stables with treatment and tack room, five barns, separate office with further store rooms, mobile home know as ‘The Lodge.’

Guide Price £1,750,000

EPC rating D

Dorking 01306 887560 dorking@jackson-stops.co.uk

NORWOOD HILL, SURREY A DETACHED FAMILY HOME SITUATED ON AN ELEVATED LOCATION WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS AND APPROVAL TO EXTEND Reception hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, three bedrooms, family bathroom, quadruple garage, seven stables plus tack room, outbuildings, approved planning to extend, in all, about 5.6 acres.

Guide Price £1,150,000

EPC rating E

Reigate 01737 222027 reigate@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

Wood d pecker L a ne e, Storrring gton,, We estt Susse ex

Pri ce guii d e £685,, 000

P riivatte l ane e se e tting,, a wall k frrom t he e viil l age e and d cl ose e to Nattionall Trustt l and d A detached 1950’s bungalow, offering comfortable 1,457 1,457 sq ft accommodation as it stands and with huge potential to enlarge/change, subject to consents | Nice location amongst mostly larger high quality homes | 2 or 3 double bedrooms | Feature double aspect bay sitting room | Sun room | Separate dining room or bedroom 3 | Square kitche kitchen n with scope to enlarge into big integral garage | Superb double aspect aspect main bedroom | Bathroom | Separate cloakroom | Extra large entrance hall & lobby | Gas CH (new boiler) boiler) | Recent double glazing to many windows | Extensive Extensive drive | Large garage | Glorious 0.3 - 0.5 acre plot, lovely private gardens on three sides | Glimpse of the Do Downs wns | EPC E |

Storrington £825,000

Storrington £1,050,000

Petworth £700,000

Storrington £675,000

Storrington £685,000

Coolham £530,000

Viilla g e & Countt ry Home es for sa a le & wa a ntted in We e stt S usse ex Cla rk e & Cha a rlesworrt h ha a ve e a na a me e forr se elli ng a ll sorrt s off p rop p erty to a ll k i nd ds off p eop p le - currrentt p rop p ert i es ra ng ge from £ 250k k - £ 1 .5m g cove era ge on Ri ghttmove e; OnT The eMark et .c com a nd d thrroug gh t he e pages off Susse e x Li f e Ourr fulll Premii um--Li stt i ng gi ve es ourr se eller cli entt s a ccess t o the e b estt buye ers i n the e ma a rk e t Custtome ers sa ay the ey li k e ourr persona a l se ervii ce, entt husiia stti c a tt i tud de a nd d at t entt ion t o det ai l g orr se elli ng i n t hii s glorri ous p art off We estt Susse ex,, do p lea se e phone e, ema ai l orr call i n - we e’re he ere to he elp you...

So i f you are b uyii ng

Village & Country Homes For Sale & Wanted in West Sussex

01903 74 12 12 Church Street Storrington RH20 4LA

www.clarkeandcharlesworth.com

Churrch Streett, We estt Chilttingtton old d villa a ge,, Westt Susse ex Guid d e Pric ce £3 50,, 000 D e lighttful pe riod d cotttage e e njjoying a pre tty garrde n. Hand d y loc cattion ne e arr village e ame e nittie es For the over-50 age group (one resident has to be over over 50) | Reasonable service charge of £1,800 pa includes includes buildings insurance, external decoration AND structural repair repair costs | Lovely beamed interior | 2 double bedrooms bedrooms (Bedroom 2 or separate dining room downstairs) | Luxury bathroom & shower | 18ft beamed sitting room with optional dining dining area | Fitted kitchen | Entrance hall | Character features, latch doors, lattice windows, open fireplace | Attractive front & rear outlook | Terrace looking onto pretty garden | Central heating (radiators) | Allocated car space at rear with garden garden access | Village stores/Post Office nearby & village inn/restaurant | Available with no chain | EPC Not applicable |

Burry Villa a ge,, Westt Susse ex

Guid d e Pric ce £500,, 000

On the e e dge e of B ury village e , a large e se e mi-d de tac che e d cotttage e e njjoying outtsttand ding farmland d vie e ws 1,442 sq ft (134.0 sq m) interior, plus detached garage garage | Sunny corner plot with lawn & home produce section section | side drive & garage | Much enlarged ground floor layout | Superb 18x12 kitchen & family dining room | Small room | Lobby Lobby & hall | Double aspect sitting room | Study with en-suite cloakroom cloakroom & shower | Separate dining room/bedroom 4 | 3 good size first floor bedrooms | Oil-fired central heating, heating, double glazing | Attractive cottage atmosphere atmosphere | Rear patio area | Sunny paved terrace | Own side/rear side/rear drive and parking | Detached garage/workroom | Naturally screened gardens | Wonderful country walks walks nearby and village pub/restaurant | EPC D 63 |

Clarke & Charlesworth

01903 74 12 12 e: property@clarkeandcharlesworth.com

A treasure trove for your elegant home

Nestled in the heart of Arundel, in the shadow of the South Downs, lies a haven for style-seekers on the hunt for stunning decorative stimulus.

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family run business, Antiquities has been beguiling their worldwide clientele for over twenty-five years—from trade buyers and designers to private clients and tastemakers. Every last customer is drawn to the shop’s uncluttered and inspirational stock; encompassing both period and modern furniture, alongside lighting and accessories.

Antiquities know that the present must exist alongside the past, especially when you’re catering to the demands of decorative living. That’s why they curate their inventory with the utmost care, ensuring a complimentary aesthetic, regardless of whether the item is contemporary or antique.

Antiquities take immense pride in looking for these treasures. Which is why they scour every auction, market, dealer and private collection across the UK and Europe—personally selecting every object in their showroom. The result is a subtle eclecticism, ranging from period dining tables, armoires and buffets to mirrors,

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garden statuary, chandeliers and much, much more.

Life moves pretty fast, which means the stock can change completely from one week to the next. But disappointment is a dirty word at Antiquities, and that’s why they operate a finder’s service, sourcing incredible one-offs on request— indeed, if there is an interior lacking decorative grace, you can be sure they’re ready to track down the ideal item for you.

It’s for all these reasons that Antiquities is respected internationally as one of the finest antique shops in the UK. Their effortless blend of refined elegance, industrial chic, country charm and daring old world glamour, making this gem on the south coast as a must stop destination for those ‘in the know’.

5 Tarrant Street. Arundel. 01903 884355 www.antiquitiesarundel.com

Whittington’s Kitchen & Bathroom Studio is part of the Whittington group. We are passionate about providing our customers with total quality Kitchen and Bathroom solutions to meet their needs.

From design through to complete installation, we provide all the expertise and services required to ensure your new Kitchen or Bathroom projects are managed smoothly and efficiently.

A key strength of Whittington’s Kitchen and Bathroom Studio is to offer a bespoke service giving you the Kitchen or Bathroom you desire.

Come and talk to us in our luxury showroom at Pulborough RH20 1AQ. Free outside parking.

www.whittington-bathrooms.com www.whittington-kitchens.com

01798 874455

FIRST TAG HEUER MODULAR SWISS MADE WATCH 50M WATER RESISTANT | GPS

63 Churchill Square, Brighton, BN1 2RG

43 High Street, Reigate, RH2 9AE

Telephone: 01273 710357

Telephone: 01737 249357

49 West Street, Horsham, RH12 1PP

Explore the collection

Telephone: 01403 258582

at thbaker.co.uk