TN Uncovered December 2014 Issue

U N C O V E Rmagazine ED

DECEMBER 2014 - ISSUE 28 Delivered to 23,000 homes & businesses in the TN19, TN20, TN21 & TN22 postcodes

19 Station Road, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 2BH

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Welcome to our

28

December issue

16 22

COMMUNITY

6 Community News

12 Days gone by

14 Community Groups

15 Whats On FOOD AND DRINK 16 Mini Christmas cakes HEALTH 18 The gift of kindness CHILDREN AND EDUCATION 20 Educate early for

success in later life HOMES 22 Top tips for

Christmas decorations

24 Feeling Festive GARDENS 28 Winter planters

We’ve been making our lists and checking them twice and think we have most things you might need to do, buy or see this festive season covered within our pages this month.

On the naughty but nice front we have a delicious recipe for mini Christmas cakes for those of you that find yourselves eating the Christmas cake way past New Year’s Eve.

Plus, if you feel your decorations are a little tired we’ve got some handy tips to put the sparkle back into dressing your home up for Christmas.

2014 has seen some fabulous Community Events in the area and we have a round-up of all that’s been happening along with lots more community news as always.

All that remains is to thank you all for your contributions, feedback and support during 2014. We hope that you have a wonderful festive season with lots of lovely food, family, friends and festivities!

See you in 2015!

The Team at RH Uncovered

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4 - Intro

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Buy Once, But Give Twice This Christmas Cards For Good Causes – the UK’s largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation is urging local residents to buy once but give twice during the festive season.

The charity organisation sells high quality Christmas cards for over 300 national and local charities in pop-up-shops across the UK, including one in Uckfield’s High Street, which is open until 17th December. Running with the help of local volunteers ensures costs are kept as low as possible, meaning that 70p from every £1 spent (less VAT) goes directly to the card buyers chosen charity.

Chief Executive of Cards for Good Causes says. ““The great thing about sending charity Christmas cards is that you buy once but give twice, once to the person you send the card to and again to a cause that is close to your heart.”

Inspiration for Cards for Good Causes came in 1959, when then secretary of the British Diabetic Association, James ‘Jim’ Jackson gathered together a group of medical charities to publically sell cards at Christmas. This formed the basis of The 1959 Group of Charities, a registered charity and multi-charity membership, which in 1964 began selling cards in empty “Christmas cards are an important town centre shops. Cards for Good source of funding for charities while Causes was formally established as also raising awareness of their the trading arm of The 1959 Group work,” Christine Holland, in 1988.

Since its formation, Cards for Good Causes has helped many charities raise the vital funds they need to continue – with £20 million donated in the last five years alone.

If you’re yet to buy your charity Christmas cards, there’s still time!

The Uckfield pop-up-shop is open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm, until Wednesday 17th December and can be found at: 170 High Street, Uckfield.

Cards for more than 35 charities are also available for sale online at www.cardsforcharity.co.uk.

Community Highlights 2014 has been a fantastic year for our local groups and organisations – here’s just some of the highlights from our community: Christine L’Ecuyer raised £1,089 for Macmillan at her Barnsgate Manor fundraiser, over 26th, 27th and 28th August – a big well done to her!

David Sudbery from Uckfield Twinning got in touch to tell us about their highlights, including; arranging a day in London for youngsters from French twin town Arques- la- Bataille, as well

as organising this year’s festival weekend, which hosted a twenty piece jazz band (The Greenhorns from German twin town, Quickborn), a packed concert in Framfield church, a performance on Luxford field and a swinging serenade the Civic Centre in the evening. Of course, there was also the annual visit for Uckfield residents to Arques, France too.

“I would really like to mention the very positive story from St Dunstan’s, Mayfield concerning our new outdoor Labyrinth which was officially blessed and opened back in August,” Vicar, Fr Nigel Prior tells us.

6 - Community

“This has been a real community effort in terms of all the digging of the pathway and although we had professional help with the design, it was great that so many people helped bring it to life.”

On 30th August, Catriona Beveridge held a fundraising tea party for three charities; Ovarian Cancer Action, Hospice in the Weald and Macmillan Cancer Care, raising £198.00 for each. The event was held in memory of her mum, Joy Beveridge (nee Fowler) who lost her life to cancer and was an active part of the Hurst Green community.

To advertise call - 01293 824088

s u a l C a t n Sa

is Coming To Town

A community Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Father Christmas on his magical sleigh. Thanks to Uckfield and District Lions, Santa and his trusty team of fundraisers will be visiting a street near you very soon…

Starting on 2nd and finishing on 23rd December, the Lions have once again organised Santa to visit residential streets on his musical sleigh, where children will have the opportunity to give him those all-important Christmas wish letters and even receive sweets from the man himself.

As always, the Lions will be collecting donations for a whole host of local causes, so dig deep this charitable season.

The dates listed below are time and weather permitting and further information can be found: www.uckfield-lions.org.uk

Tuesday 2nd - 5.00pm - Church Coombe Thursday 4th - 6.00pm - New Barn Lane, 7.00pm - Pipers Field Friday 5th - 5.30pm - Late Night Shopping, Olives Yard, High Street Sunday 7th - 5.00pm - Rocks Park Monday 8th - 6.00pm - Newick –Oldaker Rd, Newick Drive, & Allington Road Tuesday 9th - 6.00pm - Buxted – Gordon Road, Britts Farm, Littlewood Lane Thursday 11th - 6.00pm - Harcourt, Vernon & Selby Roads,

- 7.00pm - Keld Drive, Keld Avenue, Alexander Road Sunday 14th - 2.30pm - Carol Service

- 5.00pm - Castle Rise, Fernley Park, Wares Road, New Road Monday 15th - 6.00pm - Five Ash Down – Ashdown Place

- 6.45pm - Maresfield - Parklands, The Paddock Tuesday 16th - 6.00pm - Olives Meadow, Hempstead Gdns, Linden Chase

- 6.45pm - Roman Way, Knights Meadow Thursday18th - 6.00pm – West Park,

- 7.15pm - Hunters Way, Hughes Way Friday 19th - 6.00pm - Forge Rise, Bridge Farm Road,

- 7.15pm - Framfield - Beckets Way Sunday 21st - 5.00pm - Harlands Farm - Woodpecker, Goldcrest, Mallard Dr Monday 22nd - 6.00pm - Manor Park South Tuesday 23rd - 6.00pm - Manor Park North 8 - Community

To advertise call - 01293 824088

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Festival of Christmas Trees Now returning for its 7th year, the annual Festival of Christmas Trees comes to Uckfield’s Church of The Holy Cross, between Friday 5th – Sunday 7th December.

activities within our local community, and last year over four thousand people visited the festival.”

“On Saturday morning Jimmy the Juggling Jester will be entertaining the children, The festive community event aims to and on both the Saturday and Sunday unite local residents, young and old alike, afternoons there will be live musical Do come, a warm welcome awaits all of with a range of exciting activities and entertainment featuring some of Uckfield’s you to this truly festive and community entertainment, over the three day festival. most talented musicians. “ venture,” Angela continues.

“As in previous years, the Church will be “Activities will be available for young filled with a wonderful display of over people both in the Church and in the Opening hours: Friday from seventy decorated Christmas trees,” Angela Belmont Centre where there will also 10 am – 9 pm, Saturday 10 am – 6 pm Noel, verger for the church says. “This be morning coffee, lunches and and Sunday 11.30 – 4 pm followed by festival reflects the truly wide range of afternoon teas provided.

Service (with Carols) at 4.30 pm.

Turn your trash St Peter & St James Hospice, a charity providing specialist care, love and support for those living with life limiting-illnesses, rely on the community to make up 86% of their funding.

The charity cares for patients from Haywards Heath, Lewes, Uckfield and our surrounding villages. “Last year, we provided care for more than 600 patients and their families. All of our services are free of charge and we receive less than 14% of our funding from the Government,” Jo Carr from the hospice told us. “This means we have to raise more than £2.6 million every year through fundraising.

That’s £7,200 every single day!”

into treasure

This year, they are asking supporters to turn trash into treasure by donating any old, foreign coins or notes. These can be used by the hospice as part of their fundraising, and even notes that are no longer legal currency can be converted into funds!

“If you have any old or foreign money at home that you think is worthless or you do not need, please donate it to St Peter & St James Hospice. You can send the coins and notes to the hospice address, take the money to reception or put it in the collection buckets and pots in shops and elsewhere in the community,” Jo adds.

For further information, contact Jo Carr on 01444 471598, or email fundraising@stpeter-stjames.org.uk.

Feeding the Community This Festive Season In the last year, Uckfield Foodbank which supports residents from Uckfield, surrounding villages and as far a-field as Crowborough, Heathfield and East Hoathly, has provided over 4,590 meals to 510 people.

With Christmas fast approaching, the Foodbank service is asking local residents to donate items of food, to help others through the festive period.

“Over the last eight years UK food prices have risen by 43.5 percent, forcing 40% 10 - Community

of low income households into having to On Friday 28th and Saturday 29th choose between ‘heat or eat’,” Sharon Burt, November, Uckfield Foodbank will Foodbank project manager, tells us. be at Tesco in Bell Farm Road, which also has a permanent donation box, asking For this reason, many members of our shoppers to “drop as they shop” as part of community may need donations to get the Tesco National Collection weekend. them through Christmas – so if you are able to donate any items of food, please To find out more about feel free to drop them off to: Buxted Medical the Foodbank service, Practice, Bird in Eye Medical Practice and visit: www.uckfield.foodbank.org.uk Uckfield High Street’s The Bargain Store and The Lord’s Vineyard. Many local churches also have donation boxes.

To advertise call - 01293 824088

Days Gone By Every month, thanks to the Danehill Parish Historical Society, we’ll be taking you back to a day gone by and testing out your memory, with an image taken from yesteryear to see if you can spot the nearby location. Of course, in the following month’s issue, along with a new photograph, we’ll also show you where the original photograph was taken, as we’d recognise it now! Are you ready? Get set… spot that location!

The Danehill Parish Historical Society, who are helping us with this feature, are a long-established group and are looking for like-minded locals to join them.

Meeting at 8pm, in Danehill Memorial Hall, London Road, Danehill, RH17 7HS, on the last Tuesday of each month, the society focuses on both local and wider Sussex history, with exciting outdoor events visiting churches, old houses and gardens, throughout the summer months.

“The society was formed in 1972 by a group of local enthusiasts which included Philip Lucas and Hylda and James Rawlings, and the first President was Dame Margery Corbett “As well as our talks, we also have a library of Ashby, DBE,” the group’s secretary, Susan books, particularly on local historic houses,” Howe explains. the keen historian continues. “Anyone who has moved into the area and would like to “We have approximately 125 members and know the history of their house should come welcome new and younger members to a meeting and ask - it is likely to have been to join us.” researched!”

12 - Community

The group’s November talk (on Tuesday 25th November) is a don’t miss event, as Gary Enstone from Bateman’s National Trust, will be discussing the life of Rudyard Kipling, including his personal war loss, as his only son died in the First World War. This will be the last talk for 2014, as the society breaks for Christmas and returns in January with an insightful 2015 programme.

To find out more about the historical society, phone Susan on: 07967637034.

To advertise call - 01293 824088

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COMMUNITY - CHARITIES, CLUBS, GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS MONDAY

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Mayfield Bridge Club - Meet in the memorial club between 1:30-5pm.

For further info call Eithne Hodgens 01435 867430

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Uckfield Singers - Every Monday at 7.30pm in the Belmont Centre next door to the Holy Cross Church. Open to over 16s and all abilities welcome ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Extend Exercise Classes (gentle movement to music) at the State Hall, Station Rd, Heathfield, courtesy of the Kings Church, between 11.15am and 12.00 noon each week.

These classes are run by Alison Salters, a qualified instructor (01825 766 293).

The cost is £4 per person & inc. refreshments.

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Heathfield Hard of Hearing Group - Why not go along to meet others with hearing difficulties in an easy-to-communicate atmosphere? The group meets at the Red Cross Hall in Streatfield Road between 2.00pm and 3.30pm on the second Monday in the month.

Different speakers are there each month to talk on a variety of subjects and equipment of help to hard-of-hearing people is demonstrated. You will learn how to communicate with deaf and hardof-hearing people so your friends and family might want to come too. For further information, ring the East Sussex Hearing Resource Centre on 01323 722505. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Heathfield Small Business Network - established to help small non-high street based companies and the self employed in Heathfield establish working links meet at the Blackboys Inn on the Lewses Rd in Blackboys from 12.00- 1.45 on the first Monday of the month, Call Barbara Hibbart on 01435 865135 or barbara@barbarahibbartcoaching.co.uk ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Community Coffee Morning - For those who enjoy meeting others from the community.

Share memories, jigsaws, top tips etc over a hot drink & cake. £2 donation. The Grove, Blackboys. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Burwash Short Mat Bowls Club - 6.30pm Monday evenings in Burwash Village Hall .

Come and give it a try, new members welcome. Call Joan Howard on 01435 882434 or Stephen Trew on 01435 866252

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WI FOURWAYS - Meet 1st Monday each month (except Bank Hols)7.30 pm Luxford Centre, UckfieldContact: 01825 767501 - Secretary ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Heathfield & District Horticultural society - We meet on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm at St Richard's Church Hall, Park Road, Heathfield. We have various speakers throughout the year plus our Annual Shows in the Spring and Summer. New members are always welcome. Phone 01435 864875 for details..

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Burwash Monday Painters - Meet on Mondays at 1pm to share our love of painting.

We do not have classes but paint subjects devised by the members. We are a very friendly group and welcome anyone who would like to join us. Contact Grace 01435 860848 or Anne 01435 883247. Our website is burwash-monday-painters.com

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British Sugarcraft Guild , Tunbridge Wells Branch - Meets every 3rd Monday (except Aug and Dec) at 7.45pm @ St James Infant School, Sandrock Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3PR. Demonstrations or workshops at most meetings, visitors always welcome £5 entry fee.

Programme on www.region8bsg.co.uk/diary pages. Secretary Janet Creek 01825 723010 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Badminton Club - play at Uckfield Leisure Centre from 8.30pm to 10.30pm weekly.

No teaching facilities. For details contact Maureen 01825 765091 or Lynn 01435 865920

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Ladies Who Lunch - Ladies Who Lunch' meet monthly in Uckfield from 12.30 pm.

Very friendly club with lunch and an after dinner speaker. Maureen 01825 765091.

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Uckfield Inner Wheel - Meet in the Luxford Centre at 7.30 pm on the 3rd Monday of every month. Please contactYvonne Linthwaite on 01825 767167 for more details. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

TUESDAY

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Uckfield Art Group - “Painting for Pleasure” We meet every Tuesday evening 7 - 9pm at the Luxford Centre, Library Way, Uckfield

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Heathfield Market - A regular weekly Market on Tuesdays / Saturdays throughout the year. Tuesdays there is a General Auction at 1100 view from 0830. Free car Park provided near by for Tuesdays. Heathfield Market, Burwash Road, Heathfield. TN21 8RA

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Day Care - The Holdenhurst Centre in Mill Road, Heathfield is open for Day Care between 10.00am and 3.30pm under the supervision of Age UK East Sussex. Door to door transport can be arranged by Age Concern Heathfield.

For details, ring Mary Parker of Age UK East Sussex on 01273 476 704. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

14 - Community

Senior Citizens Lunch - at the Union Church Hall, Station Road, Heathfield, commencing at 12.30 pm, £3.50 for 2 courses, tea or coffee. You will get a birthday card and flowers on your birthday, and there's always lots of "friendly chat". There are new volunteers who are keen to cook for and serve more people. Please call Jean Plummer on 01435 883 483.

Minibus transport from and to your door is only available EVERY OTHER Tuesday Please ring Clarrie Pont on 01435 813 284 to check. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Learn a Craft - or practise with friends: knitting, crochet, decoupage, quilting etc., at Richard's Church Hall, Park Road, Heathfield, 1.30 to 3.30pm. Every other Tuesday. Call Loraine - 01435 865789.

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Heathfield Folk Dance Group - Tuesday 7.30pm - 10.00pm, St Richard's Church Hall Park Road, Heathfield - £2.00 per session (includes tea/coffee) no partner is needed For more info: 01435 873551 / 01435 863580

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Luncheon Club, Union Church, High Street, Heathfield - Join every fortnight for a 2 course meal with tea and coffee £3.50 - Call Jean Plummer on 01435 883483 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Buxted Park (Duplicate) Bridge Club - Meets weekly at the Sports Pavilion - 2.00-5.15 pm. £2 per session. Please call Christina Harvey on 01825 890437 if you’d like to come along. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Framfield Duplicate Bridge Club - meet every Tuesday morning Framfield Church Hall - 9.15 to 12.30

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Short Mat Bowls - Nutley - Every Tuesday afternoon between 2 and 4pm there is a small, friendly group of 55+ who enjoy a socialable afternoon playing SHORT MAT BOWLS in the Memorial Hall, Nutley.

Liz 01825 714609.

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Heathfield Olde Tyme & Modern Sequence Dance Club Every Tuesday evening at Christchurch Hall, Horam from 7.30pm to 10.00pm. £3 per session inc. refreshments and a raffle ticket. Further details from Mrs.D French - 01435 864827 or Mrs.P Wakehurst - 01435 863151 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PJ's Dance Club. Rock & Roll and Swing Jive. Tuesdays 8pm -10pm £5 per session including tea/coffee and cake. No partner required Nutley War Memorial Hall Nutley Contact Peter 07770 348354

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Uckfield Art Group - If you fancy yourself as a budding artist you would be very welcome to join the friendly members of Uckfield Art Group on a Tuesday evening. They meet at the Luxford Centre between 7pm and 9pm with a refreshment break half way through. For more information on becoming a member ring Annie on 01825 765021 or look on the website www.uckfieldartgroup.co.uk ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Royal British Legion - Uckfield Branch - meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm in the Uckfield Club, Bell Lane, Uckfield. Contact Norman Mayers:01825 765878. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bellringing - at Holy Cross Church in Uckfield. Weekly from 7.30 pm. Learners and previous ringers welcome. Contact Chris 01825 765091

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TN22 Community Choir - meet new friends and have fun singing with opportunities to perform to other groups. Every Tuesday evening in Hadlow Down from 7pm - 8.15pm.

New members welcome. Only £3. Contact Suzanne on 07864 533884 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WEDNESDAY

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Broad Oak Table Tennis Club - Held in Broad Oak Village Hall. Wednesday 7.30pm, September - May Contact: 01435 862275

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Cross In Hand WI - meet in Cross in Hand Village Hall every 4th Wednesday of the month, 2.00 - 4.00 pm. Contact: Pat on 01435 862161

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Heathfield Drama Club - The Club meets on Wednesdays (7.00pm - 8.30pm) at the Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield. Mrs Mary Pearson on 07885 563073 Website: www.tunbridgewellsdramaclub.co.uk

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Uckfield Writers - meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month at 7.30pm in the Luxford Centre, Library Way, Uckfield. Call Jane on 01825 760236.

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A Country Lunch - is now offered every other Wednesday at Punnetts Town Village Hall replacing the Friday Lunch in Heathfield at the cricket club. The minibus can still pick you up to get you there for a 12.00pm start and take you home at 2.30pm. To book please contact Mrs. A Kenward on 01435 862618. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

To advertise call - 01293 824088

COMMUNITY - WHAT’S ON Rest Christian Centre - Volunteers from the Rest Christian Centre in Punnetts Town welcome visitors to a cooked lunch, every third Wednesday of the month - £4 for 2 courses including tea or coffee. For the lunch please call Barbara Lovett 01435 882241. A minibus may be provided if sufficient people are interested. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Performing Arts Classes - Award-winning not for profit company, Intrepid Theatre, offer high quality performing arts classes for 4-7s & 7-11s at Broad Oak Village Hall, Broad Oak on Wednesdays 5.15pm - 6.45pm. For details and to try out please contact, Allie West on 01273 476 226 or 07934 362 312 or email office@intrepidinspires.co.uk ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Uckfield and District Lions Club- meet at The Alma Arms, Framfield Road, Uckfield on the second Wednesday of each month, 7.30 for 8pm, and the contact is Bob Eaves on 01825 764638

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Lunch & Chat - at Oaklands Court, Horam - Every first Wednesday of the month from 12pm. £5 for a 3 course meal. To book please telephone 01435 813030 or email admin@chanctonbury-care.com

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Uckfield Community Orchestra - We’re a group of enthusiastic amateur musicians, who meet once a week. We’re open to anyone aged eight and over. We play a wide range of ‘real’ orchestral music, arranged for players up to Grade 4/5 standard. We aim to give a couple of concerts a year within Uckfield. We rehearse on Wednesdays (term-time only) from 6.108.00 pm at the Foresters Hall, Harcourt Road, Uckfield TN22 5DT. Call Sundari Heller on 01342 823099 or email info@uckfield-community-orchestra.co.uk __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rushlake Green WI - We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Dunn Village Hall, Rushlake Green from 7.30 - 9.45pm. New members very welcome.

Secretary: Sharon Coleman Tel: 01435 812388 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Phoenix Club Uckfield - for ladies meet in the Civic Centre every 4th Thursday in the month from 2 to 4 p.m. We have speakers, outings, lunches & holidays.

Very friendly. Annual subscription £15. Please ring for further information on 01825 766568 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FRIDAY

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Community Coffee Morning - every Friday10.30am-12.30pm at Punnetts Town Village Hall.

For coffee, cakes, plants, books and lots of friendly facesPunnetts Town Village Hall, Battle Road, Punnetts Town. For more information: Punnetts Town Village Hall Committee Maggie Lambert-Gorwyn - Telephone number: 01435 830645 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Go Getters Woman's Club- Uckfield - Meetings held in Luxford Centre, Library Way. Every Friday evening from 7.45-10pm. We have speakers, outings, theatre trips, etc.

Cost £2.50 per evening which includes tea and biscuits. Contact Shirley 01825 763117.

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Art and Craft Coffee Mornings - Kings Church, Station Rd, Heathfield 10am 12 noon.

Enjoy art, knitting, quilting, etc. or just a chat with friends. For info contact 01435 863786. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Uckfield Pub Group 40+ - A friendly group for the over 40’s meets monthly on a Friday evening at various Uckfield Pubs. There is a voluntary £1 charge to cover admin. For more details see www.meetup.com/Uckfield-pub-group-40 or call Bren on 07799 664696

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Cross in Hand Duplicate Bridge Club - meet every Wednesday at Punnetts Town Village Hall at 6.45pm

Welcome Art Group - every Friday 10am-noon at Welcome Baptist Church, Heathfield.

Contact Lee Smith 01435 862 110 to discuss details about this friendly, informal group.

TN22 Club -for over-55s - meet on alternate Wednesdays in Hadlow Down village hall 11 - 2.

Come meet others, chat, enjoy a 2-course freshly prepared lunch, activities and outings on offer.

Cost £5 and volunteer transport is available at small extra charge. Suzanne 07864 533884.

SATURDAY

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Isfield Dancing Club - We meet every other Wednesday at Isfield Village Hall 8.00 till 10pm where we do Sequence and Ball room dancing, we have been going for over 40 years and are a small friendly club so If you would like to join us, please Contact Ron: 01825 750404 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

THURSDAY

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Free CV Review - Bring your CV to the Uckfield Volunteer Centre. Any Thursday from 1pm to 4pm for a free review, 79 High Street, Uckfield, TN22 1AS

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Uckfield Amateur Photographic Society - we meet on first and third Thursdays of month at the United Reformed Church Hall, New Town, Uckfield. TN22 5AE. 7.45pm for 8pm start. New members of any standard always welcome.

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The Wine Circle - Meet the third Thursday of every month 7.45pm -10.30pm at Luxford Day Centre, Library Way, Uckfield, TN22 1AR For information - Mrs. I. Wright, 01825 508323 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Tots and Toys - Term time, 10.00-11.45am & 1.00-2.45pm. For fun, crafts, stories & songs. £1.00 for a drink & healthy snack. Kings Church, Station Rd, Heathfield ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Horam & Heathfield Flower Club - Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month at the Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield at 7.30pm - 01435 864633

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Horam WI - We meet on the first Thursday every month at the Christchurch Centre, Horebeech Lane, Horam , 2pm to 4pm. Contact Kim on 01435 813942

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Heathfield and District History Society - meet on the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, in the Ian Price Room, 7.15 for 7.30.

For details of talks ring Brian Hall on 01435 865 260 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Royal British Legion - Buxted Branch - meet on the first Thursday of each month at 8.00pm in the Buxted Cricket Pavilion. Contact Richard Stanton: 01825 731899

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Uckfield Scrabble Club - A friendly, social Scrabble club, meets every third Thursday at 7.30pm at the Luxford Centre, Uckfield. New members of any ability always welcome.

Contact Ann on 01825 712052.

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Waldron Country Market - Held every 2nd Thursday of the month at Holy Cross Priory, Cross in Hand, between 11amand 1pm.

The Priory is situated on the B2102 at Cross in Hand between Beacon Down and Blackboys.

All produce is homemade and includes, jams, marmalade, chutney, knitted goods, cards, crafts, vegetables and much more. There is easy parking and coffee and refreshments available. Contact Roy Wilkinson on 01435 8l293l. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Heathfield Market - A regular weekly Market on Saturdays weekly.

See details inthe Tuesday listing.

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Buxted Symphony Orchestra - Meets Sat. 9.30-11.30 at St. Mary's Church hall, Buxted. www.buxtedsymphonyorchestra.org.uk - or Frances @peri.co.uk phone 01435862744. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SUNDAY

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Broad Oak Short Mat Bowls Club - Meet at Broad Oak Village Hall - Sunday 1.45pm 4.15pm. A friendly club which plays in a local league. Contact: Mrs Voinquel 01435 866383 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Kings Church - meet every Sunday morning 10.30am to 12 noon. We provide a creche for 1-4 years. Kings Kids for primary school children and Focus for school years 7 and up. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

St Thomas à Becket, Framfield - Please join us on any or every Sunday for our 10 o'clock service, a really warm welcome awaits you. See our website for all services www.framfieldchurch.org.uk WHAT’S ON                                                                               

6th December 2014, Saturday, 10am - 2pm, Annual Christmas Market St Dunstan’s Church, Mayfield - will be taking place with lots of Christmas cheer!

We have local stallholders who come to sell their produce - local cheeses, jewellery, Phoenix Trading Christmas wrapping paper and cards and many of our Church community make beautiful Christmas decorations, wreaths, garlands and cards etc that will be for sale. All proceeds go to the general Church funds. More information from the Parish Office – 01435 873484.

                                                                              

6th December 2014, Saturday, 3pm, The Buxted Symphony Orchestra Concert The programme is Elgar Romance for bassoon and orchestra, soloist Susana Dias, Finzi: Dies Natalis, soloist Sophie Pullen and Beethoven Symphony No 4 . The conductor is Julian Broughton and leader Tessa Younger.

                                                                              

13th December 2014, Saturday, 2pm - 4.30pm, CraftyNo.3 - Art, Craft and Vintage Fair.

At Wadhurst Commemoration Hall, High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6LE. Vintage, beautiful art, crafts and gifts by very talented local crafts people.

Christmas shopping opportunity. FREE ENTRY. FREE PARKING. Raising funds for 'Friends of Eastbourne Hospital' & 'Age Concern Heathfield' - come along and support. Stallholder info: thecraftyno.3@gmail.com / 01435 813335.

                                                                              

20th December 2014, Saturday, 7.30pm, St Dunstan’s is proud to present ‘The 1914 Christmas Truce Concert’ in association with the Mayfield, Five Ashes and Hadlow Down British Legion, Mayfield Silver Band and the Wateryard group. St Dunstan’s Church, Mayfield.

Doors open at 6.45pm. Pre show bar and interval. Tickets £8 available from Burnett's Estate Agents, High Street, Mayfield - cash or cheque on collection only, no reservations.

                                                                              

23rd December 2014, Tuesday, 6pm, St Dunstan’s Church, Mayfield -Carol Concert Takes place at the Church at 6pm. All are most welcome to join us.

                                                                              

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Community - 15

Mini Christmas Cakes Makes 9 Ready in 4 hours, plus cooling

These delightful mini fruit and nut topped cakes are perfect for giving as a festive foodie present. Simply wrap in clear cellophane and tie with gold ribbon or place in small gift boxes.

For the cake 250g butter, softened 250g dark muscovado sugar 4 medium eggs, beaten 350g plain flour 2 tsp ground mixed spice ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground cloves Finely grated zest of 1 lemon 800g mixed dried fruit 100g glace cherries, rinsed, dried and chopped 100g chopped mixed nuts

Preheat the oven to When the cake is completely 50C/300F/gas 2. cold, use a sharp knife to 1 4 Grease and line the base and cut it into 9 smaller square sides of a 20cm square cake tin with a double thickness of greased, greaseproof paper.

cakes. Brush the sides of each cake with a little apricot jam.

Divide the marzipan into 9 pieces. Dust a surface lightly Place the butter and sugar with icing sugar and roll in a large bowl and cream each piece out to a strip together until pale and fluffy. long enough to go around Gradually beat in the eggs. Sift each cake. Wrap the strips together the flour and spices around the cakes pinching then fold into the creamed the ends together to seal. mixture. Fold in the lemon zest, Top each cake with a dried fruit, glace cherries and selection of cherries, nuts and mix thoroughly. nuts and apricots.

Tie a ribbon around Spoon the mixture into each cake if desired. the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface. Use the back of a metal spoon to make a slight dip in the centre (this will help to give an even rise).

Bake in the preheated oven for 3¼ - 3 ½ hours or until firm to the touch and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.

Leave to cool in the tin.

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For the decoration 750g marzipan Icing sugar, for dusting 4 tbsp apricot jam, warmed and sieved Mixed coloured glace cherries, walnut halves, Brazil nuts and chopped dried apricots

16 - Food and Drink

To advertise call - 01293 824088

FOOD AND DRINK

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Food and Drink - 17

The gift of

kindness How many times do you walk down the street, head buried in a phone, or looking at the ground, not seeing anyone else? In the place you live, do you know the names of your neighbours?

Whilst walking down a street a few months ago, I looked over and said ‘good morning’ to the lady walking down the street in the opposite direction.

Rather than being alarmed, she told me I was the first person she’d spoken to all day. That small act had lifted her spirits.

I am very keen to take time out to offer free hypnotherapy talks to groups on at least a monthly basis.

The overwhelming response I’ve been getting from those that attend is; it’s the comfort they find in knowing someone cares about them enough to give an hour of their time.

How can you spread the gift of kindness?

Compliment those around you – tell someone how great they look. Pop into see a relative in a nursing home or volunteer an hour’s time at one, listening to stories and having a cup of tea with one of the residents.

I have learnt so much about the British history this way.

I spent a number of hours talking to a lady who was one of the Enigma team in World War II. You suddenly realise what an easy life we lead, when you talk to the older generations.

How about offering to babysit for a friend or a neighbour for a couple of hours or an evening?

It might be the first time they’ve been able to go out without a child in tow.

Kindness does not have to cost a penny but to the receiver it can feel like a priceless gift, to the giver, the knowledge that a little kindness goes a long way.

Becky Wells, www.beckywells.com Personal Development Hypnotherapist www.payitforwarduk.net

18 - Health

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a natural state of heightened awareness that occurs within all of us. It allows us to open our minds to beneficial suggestions and allows the client to use their imagination to make positive changes.

A brief way to describe a feeling similar to hypnosis is that moment you’ve been watching TV and not heard a word that’s been said, even though you’ve been staring straight at the screen.

Alternatively it’s the car journey where you wonder how you got to a certain place.

Your mind is on auto-pilot and must have been in control, otherwise there would probably have been an accident.

What can hypnotherapy help with?

• Addictions (e.g. alcoholism, nicotine) • Anger management • Anxiety • Blushing • Bruxism (teeth grinding) • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome* • Depression • Eating Disorders • Exam Nerves • Fear of Flying • Food Addiction • Gastric Band Hypnotherapy • Insomnia • Internet addiction • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Low Self Confidence • Low Self-Esteem • Obsessions & Compulsions • Childbirth • Confidence • Fears and phobias • Grief • Habits e.g. nail biting • Health • Memory • Relaxation • Performance • Personal development • Regression • Relationships • Sexual problems • Sleep Disorders • Sports performance • Stress and anxiety • Weight loss To advertise call - 01293 824088

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Health - 19

Educate Early For success in later life Sending your child to nursery or enrolling them in other pre-school education may mean they have a better chance of receiving higher GCSE grades, and earning more money later in life, than those who don’t, according to research collated by leading academics.

The report by the Institute of Education, University of Oxford, University of London (Birkbeck) and The Effective Pre-School, Primary and Secondary (EPPSE) found that children who receive pre-school education, are projected to earn £27,000 more than children whose parents don’t enrol them in early years education.

They are also more likely to achieve higher results in English and Maths GCSE exams.

“At Copthorne Prep School, we believe that time spent in the Nursery is hugely beneficial to children’s development and learning.

Our environment is outstandingly imaginative, appropriately challenging and lots of fun!”

20 - Children and Education

Thanks to the government backed Free Entitlement scheme, parents can now send their children to a registered nursery, pre-school or child-minder for free (for up to 15 hours per week, 38 weeks of the year).

Currently 1,150 two year-olds in West Sussex are benefiting from Free Entitlement, but it’s estimated with the expansion of this scheme that now 40% of this age group are now eligible, while over 12,000 three and four-year olds regularly enjoy sessions in West Sussex alone.

“We already know that children benefit in so many ways from an early education before they start school,” West Sussex County Council Member for Children (Start of Life), Peter Evans says.

“Making friends, gaining social skills and getting ready for school are just some examples. But this new research shows that the benefits are wider reaching and the positive effects can last right through into adult life.”

To check your eligibility and also find out how to apply to the scheme visit your local council’s website.

West Sussex: www.westsussex.gov.uk/freechildcare Surrey: www.surreycc.gov.uk/learning/ early-years-and-childcare-service East Sussex: www.eastsussex.gov.uk/freechildcare To advertise call - 01293 824088

CHILDREN AND EDUCATION

are holding a

at the Piano Workshop, Reigate RH2 9EL Saturday 6th Dec 2014, 10am - 4pm There will be both harps and pianos (including ‘silent pianos’) to try, hire & buy, as well as selections of CDs and accessories, that would make perfect stocking fillers! Teachers and experts will be on hand to help you to try for the first time, or answer your questions.

All harp & piano purchases or orders 5% Off on the day.

For more information see www.pilgrimharps.co.uk www.pianoworkshop.co.uk www.mantramagazines.co.uk

Children and Education - 21

Top tips for

Christmas Decorations

Have your festive decorations lost their sparkle?

Are they gaudy rather than gorgeous, tacky instead of terrific?

Katherine Sorrell has some ideas to bring back your home’s Christmas cheer with wreaths, baubles and garlands galore.

Choose a theme Rather than assembling any old cacophony of decorations, choosing a theme brings unity to the overall look. It should suit the style of your house and the way your family celebrates the festive season, whether laid-back and relaxed, sophisticated or formal.

For some, that might mean a traditional, living fir tree and a colour theme of red, green and gold.

For others, a kitsch fake tree with fluorescent ornaments; or perhaps a minimal, modern style with pure silver and glass. A Scandinavian theme would involve simple decorations in red and white, while a colourful, contemporary theme would be based around one or two bright colours.

Dress the tree Start by winding it with lights – making sure they’re evenly distributed by occasionally switching them on and standing back for an overall impression. Use a small stepladder if necessary to reach the top. Next, drape your garlands, again aiming for evenness and an impression of generosity without overloading the tree. On small or slim trees, use slender garlands; on larger trees you can afford to go for heavier, fancier garlands. Last, hang your ornaments, with the largest first, filling in around them with smaller ones. Don’t hang all the ornaments on the tips of branches – placing some nearer the trunk creates a sense of depth and interest.

22 - Homes

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Hang a wreath For some, the making of a family wreath using foraged leaves, flowers, seeds, nuts and fruit is a significant part of the holiday season; for others, creating a decorative wreath offers the chance to experiment with exciting new materials, from tinsel to feathers, pearls to buttons.

Alternatively, ready-made examples are available in any style imaginable, from classic to contemporary, heart-shaped or circular, small or large, utterly simple or lavish and complex.

Whatever its style, a Christmas wreath always provides a wonderful sense of festive welcome.

Make some decorations Home-made Christmas decorations can be as elaborate or simple as you wish, be they charmingly childish or ultra-sophisticated. Multi-coloured paper chains are the ultimate in family favourites, as are cutwork paper stars and clove-studded oranges. How about pom pom snowmen, peg-doll angels or glitter-covered pine cones? Or mini stocking shapes cut out of felt and ginger biscuits to hang from the tree? It’s all great fun and will create happy memories for years to come.

Wrap your presents Transform present-wrapping from a chore to a pleasure by taking a little extra time and trouble.

When they’re piled under the tree they will look so much better if they’re colour-coordinated and criss-crossed with ribbons and bows. Inexpensive paper – even brown paper or newsprint – looks lovely if adorned with a home-made label, while sequins, feathers, glitter, stamped designs and wired beads can all provide additional allure. For a frivolous finishing touch add a tiny pine cone, iced biscuit or small bauble.

Sort out your cards An abundance of cards can soon appear to cover every available surface, so it pays to establish a system as soon as they start arriving. The most straightforward option is to clear a shelf or two, and arrange them close together, large at the back and small at the front, in neat rows. Smaller cards can be tucked around a mirror or picture frame. An alternative is to staple them to ribbons (weighted by a bauble or pine cone) to hang in rows from a mantelpiece or along the side of the staircase.

Create displays Nothing says Christmas like poinsettias in pots, scented candles on the mantelpiece and ivy, holly and mistletoe draped over every available surface. Bowls of clementines or nuts are both ornamental as well as edible, while baubles or fairy lights (the latter placed near a handy socket) can also be bundled into a glass bowl or vase for a glittery effect. Now’s the time to dig out that special table runner and your best crockery, glassware and cutlery for an eye-catching table display, finished off with a dish, tray or platter filled with greenery, candles and other festive decorations.

Looking after your tree Buy a tree that’s as fresh as possible; bright green and, ideally, displayed in water, out of direct sunlight. As soon as possible, cut half an inch off the bottom of the trunk, to help the tree absorb water. Trim away low-down or interior branches that you don’t need.

Put the tree in a stand that can hold plenty of water, and never let it run out. Try not to stand the tree in a sunny window or near a radiator. If you wish, you could add a couple of cups of corn syrup to the water to provide the tree with extra nourishment. www.mantramagazines.co.uk

Homes - 23

Feeling

1

Festive!

Now December’s here, it’s time to start decking those halls and enjoy the exciting run up to Christmas. If you need some inspiration to turn your home into a cosy winter wonderland, check out our favourite festive finds… just call us Santa’s Little Helpers!

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1. Knitted mitten garland, The White Company, £35.00 2. Deluxe crackers (6), Sainsbury’s, £18.00 3. Berry wreath, Tesco, £15.00 4. Enamel tree decorations, Monsoon, £5.00 5

5. Pre lit mistletoe garlands, Wilko, £8.00 6. Handpainted baubles, www.decoratorsnotebook.co.uk, £16.00 7. 50’s red Christmas wrapping paper, www.dotcomgiftshop.com, £6.95 7

6 24 - Homes

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HOMES

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- Exterior painting - Fascias and soffits replaced or installed - Patio / drive cleaning - Pigeon spikes and netting fitted

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Contact George now to get a free estimate

info@tilleyandco.com - 07787 866 174 - 0800 433 2113 based in East Grinstead but cover London, Sussex, Surrey and Kent

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Homes - 25

HOMES

26 - Homes

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HOMES

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Homes - 27

Winter Planters

Even if you’re sure you’re not going to venture into your garden much this winter, make sure you have every possible encouragement by creating a winter planter or two.

They will not only look gorgeous from the warm comfort of your house, but will also help to coax you outside from time to time.

Choose a larger container as it’s more likely to protect the roots on the plants due to the greater volume of compost.

I’d avoid any container less than 30cm (12in) diameter if possible.

Any container will insulate the roots a little, but one made from thick wood (such as a wooden trough or window box, or a half-barrel) will be very effective. Good quality, fairy chunky plastic also works quite well. Try to avoid metal as this tends to conduct cold.

Warm undergarments are all the rage for winter planters. A lining of bubble-wrap polythene or even a few layers of old fabric or carpet, sandwiched between the sides of the container and the compost will help to keep both compost and roots warm.

If you live in a particularly cold area, or simply want to decrease the risk of winter damage further, try to position winter planters out of the windiest areas.

28 - Gardens

If possible place them fairly close to a house wall on the south or west side as this will help to provide a little extra warmth.

You’ll be amazed at the range of plants available at your local garden centre for adding winter colour and interest to pots and planters. Some of my favourites are the universal or other winter flowering pansies or even hardier smaller flowered violas.

In warmer areas, you can add bright patches of colour to your display using the ‘winter cherry’ or solanum which has bright yellow and orange fruits. You could also use a few winter flowering cyclamen but these definitely need a very sheltered spot such as a window box on a protected wall.

Don’t forget to add in a few early spring flowering bulbs such as miniature narcissus, crocus and miniature iris. Hide them beneath the For some seriously sturdy winter colour, roots of your winter bedding plants; try the winter flowering heathers as you’ll forget they are there until they these make a good base for the display burst out in spring. and you can then add trailing plants such as variegated ivies to help provide By Pippa Greenwood extra colour, texture and interesting leaf shapes. All these plants will last Visit Pippa’s website for years, not just the winter months. www.pippagreenwood.com and sign up At this time of year, garden centres offer very tiny versions of shrubs such as skimmias, Pieris or hollies and many of the dwarf conifers. They will provide good colour and interest in a container for a year or two and can then be planted in your garden to reach their full size.

for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’.

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Gardens - 29

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roger@languedoc.co.uk Unit C3, Bird in Eye Farm, Uckfield 30 - Professional Services

To advertise call - 01293 824088

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES / INDEX Accountants, Dixon & Company, 30 Building & Maintenance, Reg Mardlin, 27 Car Dealer, Wilmoths Citroen, 9 Care Home, Chanctonbury Healthcare, 19 Conservatories, Icon Roofs Ltd, 29 Curtains and Soft Furnishings, Florence Landais, 27 Domestic Fuels, Geoff Boorman Fuels, 29 Energy Solutions, Paynes Heating and Energy Solutions, 26 Fitness, Control fitness, 1 Food Supplier, Wiltshire Farm Foods, 17 Furniture & Gift Shop, Trading Boundaries, 5 Garage Refurbishment, VSF Ltd, 3 Golf & Country Club, East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa, 2 Heating Services, Storaheat, 27 Hotel and Restaurant, Chequers Inn, 7 Kitchen and Bathroom Services, Hand Painted Kitchens, 26 Mobile Car Valeting, P & B Mobile Valeting, 41 Mobility Scooters, A B Mobility (Sussex) Limited, 19 Musical Instruments, Pilgrim Harps, 21 Outdoor Pursuits, Blackland Farm, 21 Oven Cleaning, Indreco Professional Cleaning , 27 Personal Trainer, Body tune, 19 Pre-School, Broad Oak Pre-school, 21 Property Refurbishment & Construction,

Baileybridge Property Refurbishment & Construction, 13 Reclamation Yard, BDL Holdings Ltd, 29 religious group, London Temple Visitor Centre, 11 Removals & Storage, Amadeus, 30 Roof & Gutter Cleaning, Tilley & Co, 25 Senior Citizen Welfare Group, Wealden Senior Citizens Partnership, 32 Septic Tank/Cesspool Emptying, South East Tankers, 27 Solar Installers & panels, Watts Up Solar, 26 Will Writing Service, Good Wills, 30

P&B

Mobile Valeting

We Come To You For a Perfect Shine Every Time

Car & Commercial Fully insured

Prices Starting from only ÂŁ30 01825 766 353 07891 336 742 07590 480 865

Pandbmobilevaleting@yahoo.co.uk www.mantramagazines.co.uk

Professional Services / Index - 31

WEALDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ PARTNERSHIP

Winners of the Highly Commended Silver Surfers Award 2011 and 2012