Ashdown Forest Living March Issue

March 2016

British Wildlife Centre Photo of the Year, courtesy of Ashley Buttle Š Photo taken at the centre, Lingfield.

Crowborough & the England Rugby Captain Local Business Directory & Community News Attracting Bees and Butterflies Looking Good in 2016 Call 01342 300152 to advertise Weirwood Reservoir Support your local businesses

Quality Timber and Building Materials Softwoods

Hardwoods

Mouldings

Sheet Materials

Flooring

Doors

Windows and Frames

Staircases and Accessories

Fencing and Garden Products

Building Products

Drainage and Guttering

RooďŹ ng

Insulation

Lightside

Power Tools and Hand Tools

Easter Opening Hours Good Friday 25th March: East Grinstead, Haywards Heath & Crowborough - Open 8am - 12.30pm Forest Row - Closed.

(Normal Saturday Opening Hours)

Monday 28th March: All Branches Closed

Visit Our Website for Seasonal Special Offers Forest Row Station Road Forest Row East Sussex RH18 5EL 01342 822191

East Grinstead Railway Approach East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 1BY 01342 317470

Haywards Heath College Road Haywards Heath West Sussex RH16 1QW 01444 413413

Crowborough Ballards Yard Park Road Crowborough East Sussex TN6 2QS 01892 652725

Open: Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday Closed

Open: Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 1pm

Open: Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 12.30pm

Open: Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 12.30pm

www.mstc.co.uk Call Mid-Sussex Timber Sales on 01342 822191 or Order online at mstc.co.uk Enquiries: 01342 300152

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Roofing

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Yours truly, Richard Reuss Independent Business Consultant Forest Row

Dear Sir/Madam, We are a professional family business with 40 years experience. Our services are cost-effective with references.

Our Roofing Services

• Roof tiling works, renew/repair • Flat roofing works, renew/repair • Sheet roofing, renew/repair • Chimney repair/remove/rebuild • Guttering replacement/Fascias For a free quotation call Paul on:

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Chimneys

Guttering

New Boarding / uPVC

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Courses now available in Ashdown Forest

07961 402114

Call Halina on or email AshdownNordic@gmail.com www.nordicwalking.co.uk

-VY H ZVMH [V JVTL OVTL [V

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S u p p o r t i n g lo c a l B u s i n ess

Dear Residents,

Whats inside this month

Welcome to the March issue.

This month we have a fabulous article about Weirwood Reservoir and the history and wildlife to be found there. And another feature about England Rugby Captain Dylan Hartley who lived in Crowborough and was introduced to the Sussex League here, on page 22.

With spring very nearly here, we can all breath a sigh of relief!

Hopefully you can find services in the magazine to help you with your garden and home projects.

Crowborough & the England Rugby Captain

Bees and Butterflies

If you are a community group or charity, please drop us a line if you would like more promotion.

All the best for a great March.

Tally & Chris

Keep this directory handy for when you need it

Looking Good in 2016

Garden Guide this March

A Baa-tanical Garden

Recipe

Ashdown Forest Living To advertise call 01342 300152 info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk www.ashdownforestliving.co.uk Follow us on TWITTER

Correction: Last month we published a ‘mash-up’ poem which was erroneously attributed to Byron when it was in fact partially Byron but mostly Shakespeare. Thank you to those who pointed this out and apologies.

Although this publication does not vet advertisers, a number of complaints will mean that businesses will be barred from further advertising.

Recipe

Weirwood Reservoir

Ashdown Forest Living Notice: Ashdown Forest Living prints various articles, features, and advertisements. Although these appear in Ashdown Forest Living, any opinions expressed are the opinion of the author, these are not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. © Copyright Ashdown Forest Living 2016. The contents of this publication are written specifically for our readers, no part may be reproduced elsewhere without express and prior permission.

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Looking good in 2016 With the new spring colours beginning to show in our countryside, it’s time to look into our wardrobes and make a few changes.

pictures and those are the colours available this season.

Muted greens, mint, various blues, lemon, pinks, all gentle on the complexion and easy to wear. And while we are on the garden route, be prepared to wear a flock of birds, budding branches, leaves and flowers within the prints of your dresses and tops – not the big floral prints of 2015 but more gentle botanical studies. Prefer something a bit more vibrant?

You’ll find citric green, vibrant yellow, bright red, cobalt blue – plain, or contained within vibrant geometric prints.

2016 is a leap year, when traditionally, if only for a day, a woman can propose marriage, thereby wearing the ‘trousers’.

Most modern day women would argue that we have earned the right every day, but we are not here to debate that point. The fashion question here is, wide or narrow, short or long? And the answer for 2016 is that anything goes. For those wanting a change from the skinny look, you can wear a flare or wider cut with pride, but this year consider the easier styles of elastic waisted, harem type pants in a bright print: an easy holiday look, teamed with a baggy top and either a cork wedge shoe or flat sparkly sandal. Trouser lengths remain fluid: calf length to very long are all acceptable. Fancy culottes or long shorts? This is your year!

Look out for the inevitable patriotic blue, white and red of an Olympic year – and of course, for those who wish to follow the trend, the athletic look with flat trainers and plimsolls. But bling them up – with metallic colours, a bit of sparkle or a bright colour.

With Easter arriving early this year (end of March), maybe consider the yellows and oranges of the season in lightweight knitwear or maybe statement jacket. If the weather stays chilly, these work very well with the navy, black and grey of the winter season but if it’s warm, then team them with white and neutrals – either way you’re still Easter chic!

Worried about those extra pounds you’ve gained from comfort eating this winter? No worries. Tuck them away under the easy fit tops of the season: long line shirts and jackets, layered knitwear, with round and v-necks. Put a faux suede/ chamois jacket on top – maybe quilted jacket or gilet. Trying to get away from trousers? Dresses are still a major look, teamed with a cardigan for cooler days.

Hints & Tips brought to you

by Tessa Sturdy of Private Collection, Forest Row & Second Glance, East Grinstead

Imagine the sort of palette that Monet might use to paint his

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ISTD and RAD Dance and LAMDA Drama and Musical Theatre classes

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Apple, apricot & sultana squares The perfect treat with a cup of tea. And great for packed lunches and picnics too!

Serves: 16 adults.

Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 20 mins

What to do: 1. Preheat the oven to Gas Mark 4/180°C/ fan oven 160°C. Grease a 23cm (9inch) shallow square cake tin with a spread, then line the base with baking parchment or greaseproof paper.

2. Melt the remaining spread in a large saucepan with the golden syrup. Take care that the mixture doesn’t get too hot.

Ingredients:

3. Remove the pan from the heat and add the porridge oats, apple, apricots, sultanas or raisins and mixed spice (if using). Stir well, add the beaten egg and mix again.

100g spread/butter 4 tbsp golden syrup 250g porridge oats 1 apple cored and chopped 50g ready-to-eat apricots chopped 50g sultanas ½ tsp ground mixed spice (optional) 1 egg beaten

4. Tip the mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm.

Cool in the tin for about 20 minutes, then cut into 16 squares.

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Thinking of learning a new useful language?

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She prides herself on making German accessible to her students which is why she calls her lesson format ”Easy German Learning”. As an adult learner with no German experience Elisabeth has pitched the lessons appropriately. She has a wealth of experience which provides a necessary structure to our lessons whilst also being able to deviate and respond to my queries. I whole-heartedly recommend her as a tutor for all ages’. Dr N.W.

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Join us to train your dog and have fun at the same time Kennel Club Good Citizen Assessments offered

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Routine foot health check Diabetic foot care Toe nail and finger nail cutting and filing Corns Callus Ingrown toe nails Verruca Fungal infection OPI manicure/pedicure with varnish or gel

Contact: Maxine Briggs MCFHP MAFHP Tel: 07711 986776 • www.feetunique.com Member of the Open College of Foot Health Professionals and Member of the British Association Of Foot Health Professionals Visit: w w w.ashdownforestliving.co.uk Please mention us when responding to adverts

Attracting Bees and Butterflies We’d all love more wildlife in the garden and what better way to start than planting bee and butterfly friendly plants. With their bright colours and rich pollen or nectar source they create the perfect habitat for these important pollinators.

The best approach is to plant a mix of species so that you can provide habitat from early spring through to late autumn. The pollinators are important for a lot of plants because without them they wouldn’t seed and/or fruit. Sadly our bees and butterflies are in decline so every little effort we make in our gardens, however large or small can help reduce this downward trend.

Below are just some of the plants that are good for pollinators but you can visit the RHS website on their ‘Get Your Garden Buzzing’ page where they are providing comprehensive lists for you to choose from.

Spring

Summer

Autumn/Winter

Herbs

Shrubs

Aubretia

Lavender

Helenium

Oregano

Buddleja

Primrose

Nepeta

Aster

Rosemary

Berberis

Myosotis (Forget me not)

Marigolds

Sunflowers

Mint

Pyracantha

Alliums

Honeysuckle

Echinacea

Borage

Viburnum

English Bluebells

Scabious

Sedum

Chives

Ceanothus

Digitalis Foxglove

Evening Primrose

Hyssop

Skimmia

Pulmonaria

Dahlia

Papaver (Poppies)

Geraniums

Now is the perfect time to plan some of these important plants into your planting scheme. Every little effort contributes to the survival of our bees and butterflies and the importance of this cannot, of course, be over-stated.

Clare Parkinson, Horticultural Manager and Garden Designer, Imberhorne Lane Nursery

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S u p p o r t i n g lo c a l B u s i n ess

HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB

PERFECT SUSSEX SE T T I N G Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club is a beautiful country house hotel nestled in 186 acres of beautifully maintained parkland in the heart of the Ashdown Forest. Offering luxurious accommodation, excellent food, extensive gardens and parkland, it’s a delightful place to relax and unwind.

The perfect gift…

If you’re looking for a gift for that person who has everything then our gift vouchers make the ideal present! They can be used towards any experience at the hotel including afternoon tea, overnight stays and spa treatments - ideal for Mother’s Day or Easter!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Sunday 6th March – Mothering Sunday Lunch - £42.50 Sunday 6th March – Mothering Sunday Champagne Afternoon Tea - £38.00 Sunday 20th March – The Luxury Wedding Show (free registration at www.luxuryweddingshow.co.uk) Friday 25th March – Good Friday Lunch - £29.50 Sunday 27th March – Easter Sunday Lunch - £36.00 Sunday 27th March – Easter Sunday Afternoon Tea in the converted Chapel - £29.50

01342 824988 | www.ashdownpark.com V i s i t : wAshdown w w . a s h d o wPark n f o r eHotel s t l i v i n& g .Country co.uk Please mention us when responding to adverts

Club, Wych Cross, nr Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5JR

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Blackland Farm Activity Centre The place to go for birthday parties or adventure activities!

Bring the family for a day in the great outdoors and challenge yourselves to do something you’ve never done before!

If you have a head for heights, try our climbing wall, abseiling tower, zip wire or Leap of Faith – Or keep your feet on the ground with an archery session Are you brave enough to tackle the tunnel system?

If you can swim, you can go canoeing with our qualified instructor on the nearby Weir Wood lake from May onwards.

Then stay and have a picnic and go for a walk in the 120 acres of woods and fields in this beautiful part of the West Sussex countryside near East Grinstead and the Bluebell steam railway.

Ring 01342 810493 to book, or www.blacklandfarm.org.uk for further information Blackland Farm Grinstead Lane, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4HP Email: blackland@girlguiding.org.uk

J&V

Quotes

Carpentry Est.1984 Services

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Quiz Answers

‘Sometimes the strength of motherhood is greater than natural laws.’

Barbara Kingsolver

1: 2: 3: 4: 5:

‘Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.’

Stevie Wonder

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Central Line Raspberry Bordeaux Butterfly National Aeronautics & Space Administration

6: Oliver Twist 7: Yellow 8: Eyelids 9: Athens 10: William Shakespeare

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Care in your Own Home

Blackland Farm Activity Centre, West Sussex

Having your own Personal Care Assistant living with you in the comfort and familiarity of your own home is realistic and affordable.

At Domus Live-In Care we provide experienced carers who help with:

• Meal preparation • Domestic support Personal Care z Kayaking Are you considering care?

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z Rock climbing Our aim is to support you to be as independent as possible and to Having your own Personal Care Assistant living with you in the comfort, safety and familiarity of your own home, is a realistic, z Archery maintain your lifestyle and social life. affordable alternative to residential care and allows you to continue to live your life, your way. At Domus LiveͲIn Care we can z Zip wire provide experienced care staff who will assist in the activities of daily living.

For a free consultation call: 01892 512961 ...and much more. info@domus-live-in.co.uk • www.domus-live-in.co.uk The services we provide include: x Personal Care (assistance with bathing and dressing)

Come and join us for x Support with medication Meal preparation fun-filledx activity days.

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Our liveͲin care service is based on an assessment of your needs and a Personal Care Plan is designed to ensure we meet all your

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Painters & Decorators Interiors, Exteriors, 25 Experience Customer references available on request For a FrEE quotE tEl Mark:

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French TranslaTions Whether you are a business or a private individual, need a small letter or large documents translated, you are guaranteed services at a price and speed that suit your needs.

dŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ ŵŽƌĞ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ƵƐ T: 01342 822573 E: enquiries@broadstonewarren.org.uk W: www.broadstonewarren.org.uk

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A Baa-tanical Garden with a difference Russell Croft, shepherd at Wakehurst, pulls the wool from our eyes

I’ve been working at Wakehurst since 2006 as both an arboriculturist and also a shepherd, looking after our flock of Southdown sheep.

Southdowns are sturdy animals which were bred to thrive on the short grass of the Sussex Downs. Their distinctive woolly ‘teddy-bear’ faces are popular with visitors, but they are predominantly kept for conservation reasons. By grazing the meadows and opening up bare patches of earth in the grass, known as poaching, we have managed to improve conditions for these species rich grasslands and allowed them to thrive.

with, although they have their moments and I have spent some time chasing escaped ram lambs and helping sheep onto their feet after they’ve got stuck on their backs! Studies have shown sheep are able to recognise faces of more than 50 other sheep for a period of two years and it is interesting to watch how the flock behave when reunited after periods of separation. Last year a number of our Southdowns went on ‘an outing’ to Kew to join Shaun the Sheep in celebration of his new movie but they were pleased to be back here and reunited once more with the flock.

Initially, 20 Southdown ewes came to Wakehurst. The numbers have risen into the 80s at times but normally hover around the 60 mark. My background was in trees but looking after sheep was totally new to me and I’ve had to learn on the job. To begin with I found it quite challenging but now I really enjoy it. Southdown sheep have a docile temperament and are usually easy to work

I started preparing for this year’s lambing, last September, when it was important to ensure the ewes were in the right condition for the ram’s arrival. Our ram arrived in November, on a Friday 13th which may or may not have been a lucky day for the ewes depending on their viewpoint!

We put a ’raddle’ or harness on his chest with a coloured crayon so he leaves a mark on the ewes

14

he has visited. This crayon is replaced with a different colour after 15 days and that shows us if he has returned to any ewes.

After about 12 weeks the ewes can be scanned to see how many lambs are expected. For us this year it means four singles and eight sets of twins. That is a good ratio for Southdowns as they commonly produce more singles than other breeds lambing at a ratio of 1.5 lambs per ewe where other breeds will be two or more.

Ewes tupped in November should lamb in early April and we are expecting to see lambs from about the 7th April 2016.

After the scanning, I ensure that they have an incremental rise in feed to support the growing lambs. This usually takes the form of added ‘ewe and lamb’ nuts which contain added protein, fats and fibre and helps prevent twin-lamb disease. At the end of March, I will have finished preparing for lambing - including cleaning the lambing area, collecting hay and straw, worming and vaccinations and I will have a collection of gloves, bottles, lambing rope, sprays and syringes at the ready. From then on it is just a case of regular checks and watching for tell-tale signs. Ewes are fairly predictable in that they will start lambing when they feel safe and secure, this usually occurs late evening and early morning and you can really observe a rhythm to the whole process. Signs I watch out for as an early indicator are the vulva becoming very pink and slack and the ewe becoming restless and pawing the ground.

It becomes more obvious to

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15

spot what is occurring in the final stage as the ewe lies on her side and begins straining, the water bag then appears and then the lamb should follow shortly after. Of course it is not always that straight forward and sometimes a helping hand is required. If I too need help, my colleagues at Wakehurst are usually happy to assist, as long as it’s not too late! There are advantages to the early mornings and late nights checking on the sheep. It provides the opportunity for me to see Wakehurst’s other wildlife, and I regularly see Barn and Tawney owls, bats, badgers and foxes on the move as I walk down to the sheds.

The lambs are due the week after Easter but there are plenty of other things to see and activities to take part in over the Easter holidays, visit www.kew.org/visit-wakehurst

BOOK YOUR 2016 ADVERTISING TODAY

If you’d like to see more wildlife at Wakehurst ask at the desk for a complementary entry into the Loder Valley Wildlife Reserve. www.kew.org/visit-wakehurst/explore/ attractions/loder-valley-nature-reserve.

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ASHURST GROOMBRIDGE

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ERIDGE GREEN COLEMAN’S HATCH

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HORSTED KEYNES NUTLEY DANEHILL LINDFIELD SHEFFIELD PARK

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for more information or visit www.ashdownforestliving.co.uk SAINT HILL

16

Enquiries: 01342 300152

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S u p p o r t i n g lo c a l B u s i n ess

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Garden Guide this March

method is the same as moving the deciduous shrubs. This then gives the shrub a growing season before its next flowering.

What a mild winter it’s been this year, so many daffodils already in flower, competing with the crocus and the snowdrop, but on a blue sky and sunshine day it all looks absolutely gorgeous. The other benefit of a mild winter is how beautiful the camellias are looking, perfectly formed rosettes of colour rather than the brown blobs of frost bitten petals.

Each day I look at the lawn and say, when there is a dry spell, I must get out and mow the lawn… February does seem somewhat early for lawn mowing but the grass is so long - a mix of the wet and mild conditions – that

if left it will become mossy and its condition will deteriorate.

There’s always plenty to do in March and it’s worth investing your time now in the garden to tidy everything up and prepare for the months ahead. If you are planning new hedges now is the time to buy the bare root stock.

Prepare the ground by digging it over and digging in a good compost such as farmyard or horse manure, then plant your bare root stock straight into the prepared area, give it a good watering to bed it in. Likewise with any new shrubs you are planning – now is the perfect time for planting.

This is the last opportunity (until they lose their leaves in the Autumn) to move any deciduous shrubs. Dig them up with a large root ball and transplant into a well-prepared (as above) planting hole. Ensure they establish with plenty of water during a dry spell. Evergreen shrubs are best moved after they have flowered e.g. rhododendrons, the

18

As well as new plantings you need to get stuck into your borders now to tidy them up and sort them out before everything starts growing again. Remove the weeds, cut old stems back down to ground level, taking care not to damage any new shoots.

Large clumps of perennials can be divided and transplanted and new self-sown seedlings can be moved to more appropriate positions in the border. Gaps can be filled with new plants. Fork over between the plants and then apply a good thick mulch. Always work from the back of the border to the front.

Sheds can be tidied and greenhouses scrubbed, the patio can be cleared of moss and weeds. Tidy your patio pots and add colour with spring bedding (only if mild) or flowering bulbs.

The gardening season has definitely started…

Clare Parkinson Horticultural Manager and Garden Designer Imberhorne Lane Nursery Enquiries: 01342 300152

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Masala curry potatoes with cumin and tomatoes This simple dish is a delicious way to enjoy Indian flavours and is great with a side salad for lunch.

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1 red chilli finely chopped 1 tsp ground coriander

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From a land Down Under to England Rugby captain via Crowborough

By Jacob White

Following England’s disappointing World Cup performance last autumn which saw the host being eliminated in the pool stage, the RFU set about rebuilding the national team set-up which started with the appointment of Australian Eddie Jones in November 2015 and was followed-up by the announcement that New Zealand-born Dylan Hartley would captain Jones’ new look England.

18’s in Rotorura New Zealand, Dylan approached him and asked if his dad (me) could get him into the England side.”

The Crowborough connection was virtue of Hartley’s aunt and uncle who live in the town and as a result of the encounter the ball started rolling as Dave goes on, “Jon told him to ring me, which he did and I told him that if he was good enough then yes I could. Within six weeks he was enrolled at Beacon Academy and playing for the academy and the county”.

Hartley may have been born in Rotorua on the other side of the world but he was reborn on the sports fields of Crowborough, East Sussex. For whether it was coincidence or destiny a teenager from rugbymad New Zealand would travel 18,534 km, or 11,516 miles in old money, to ply his trade in Sussex before signing for one of England’s biggest clubs and finally go on to now skipper the England team.

Science teacher and rugby academy coach at Crowborough’s Beacon Community College, Dave Pass, who has known Hartley since he first arrived in the UK as a teenager (moving to Crowborough in 2002) said: “We are all extremely proud that Dylan has been nominated to lead the new England rugby team for the forthcoming Six Nations”.

Hartley qualifies to play for England through his English-born mother and Dave explains how Hartley found himself in Crowborough, “Having met my son Jon, who was playing and captaining Sussex Under

22

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According to Dave, Hartley made a sensational impact immediately upon his arrival in East Sussex, “It didn’t take him long to scale the divisional scene and then he was selected for England Under 18’s.

From there he was spotted by Worcester and then to Northampton” Dave says.

Having been picked for Sussex, Hartley joined Worcester Warriors Academy before signing for Northampton Saints in the summer of 2005. In the 2006-07 Season Hartley enjoyed his biggest match yet in the Heineken Cup Quarter Final against French side Biarritz Olympique which Northampton went on to win. However, come the end of the season the Saints were relegated from the Premiership.

Left is Tom Caruthers England Under 16, Dylan, Jon Pas Captain London South East

In the summer of 2007-08 Northampton won the EDF Energy Trophy and secured promotion from the RFU Championship back to the Premiership. Hartley played in the victorious 2008-09 European Challenge Cup campaign culminating in a victory against Bourgoin of France at Twickenham. In July, he was appointed Northampton Saints captain, succeeding Bruce Reihana with the captain’s armband.

Hartley first represented England at the 2005 Under21 Rugby World Championship before receiving in his first full-cap in 2008. In June 2009 he made his first England start in a 37-15 victory against Argentina.

Despite being a Northampton Saint, Hartley has been accused of being a sinner but Dave points to a disciplinary record which tells a different story, “A lot has been made about his discipline, but in 66 test matches plus his youth caps I have to remind people Dylan has only received one yellow card! In those internationals he has proudly represented the country”.

Defeats to Wales and Australia at the World Cup in the autumn raised questions over the selections made by then coach Stuart Lancaster and Dave maintains it could have been a different story, “I believe he is just what England need, he is strong, talented, a proven leader with Northampton and probably the best hooker England have ever had and was sadly missed in the World Cup”.

Off the field, Hartley contributes a lot of time to charity work and is an ambassador of the Matt Hampson Foundation, which provides advice, support and treatment to those suffering injury as a result of competitive sport. In November, 2013 he captained a the ‘Front Mo Union’ team which raised in the region of £44,000 for men’s health charities.

“Had he been there, I have no doubt that England would have topped the group, and then, who knows. We sadly missed a leader in a critical position and why he wasn’t introduced following the Fiji game and his ban served, only Stuart Lancaster knows. At Northampton he was soon made captain, which he is still and then onto a successful career with England, earning 66 caps” Dave added.

Reminiscing about Hartley’s time in East Sussex, Dave remembers the time very fondly, “Whilst at Beacon Academy he also played for the Local Crowborough Rugby Club Colts side which went on to win the County Championship. He was a regular at my home and a close friend of myself, my wife and particularly my son Jon, who was his captain throughout his early years at Beacon Academy”.

Looking to the future, Dave believes the appointment as captain is the right move for England and will be great for Hartley, “His selection as national captain has been well received both locally and nationally and it has been expected as he is a proven leader. I expect him to do very well and my prediction is England to win the Six Nations and Dylan to be selected as captain for the British Lions!”

Dylan with Dave Pass, Oct 2015

24

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Baileybridge is run by Sue Risley who has over 25 years experience in the field. Sue provides exceptional attention to detail and is

Strange Easter Customs Finland

This noisy custom originated in Corfu towns but has extended to the villages. Apparently it was taken from the conquering Venetians who, on New Year’s day, used to throw their old things from the windows in order to receive new ones for the New Year.

You couldn’t be accused of confusing Finnish Easter traditions with Halloween. In times gone by it was thought that evil spirits and witches would roam around the country, doing mischief on the Saturday before Easter.

This throwback belief is a good reason for a bit of fun. Kids wear old and oversized clothes and headscarves, painting freckles and rosy cheeks on their faces, and whisking birch twigs decorated with feathers and crepe paper.

Knocking on doors, the children cast a good spell on you and kindly ask you to put some sweets and money into a pot. And they thank you with a twig.

Corfu

The Corfiots drew on this tradition to celebrate the most important Greek holiday, Easter. Nowadays, the ‘old things’ have been replaced by pots and jugs full of water, which make for an even louder noise upon impact. If you plan to visit, stand back people - the street cleaners must be very forgiving after that much merriment!

Corfu’s Easter celebrations are famous, attracting tens of thousands of tourists, from mainland Greece, and beyond. A crazy custom that would never be allowed in health and safety conscious Britain is to hurl earthenware pots half full of water, from great heights, at precisely 11am on the Saturday while other people look on.

It is also thought that the peculiar custom may have partial roots in the biblical passage “Thou, O Lord, raise me up, that I may crush them as a potter’s vessel”, and as Easter falls in the beginning of the plantation season, the time when newly-harvested produce from the land was stored in new pots and the old ones were destroyed.

At Easter, Olde Worlde Finns would ignite large bonfires to keep the mischievous spirits at bay.

These days the fires still get lite but just as an excuse for a community get together.

Sudoku

Answers on page 12

1:

What is the red line on the London Undergound map?

2:

What colour was Princes beret in his song?

3:

Which region of France produces claret wines?

4:

In nature, what is a red admiral?

5:

What does the acronym NASA stand for?

6:

In which famous book does the dog ‘Bullseye’ appear?

7:

What colour is Pac-Man?

8:

Where on the human body would you find the thinnest layer of skin?

9:

In which city was the 2004 Olympcs?

© Kevin Stone [www.brainbashers.com]

Quick Quiz

10: Which English author is arguably the best selling author of all time?

26

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She works to her client’s budget requirements and is always testing new products and materials to see what works, saving time and money for her customers. Kitchens Bespoke can also attend to lighting, decoration, flooring and building works if necessary. The word ‘bespoke’ refers to the design process itself and Rachael says that her kitchens are more affordable than you might think.

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Weirwood Reservoir:

History and Nature Reserve Society

Weir Wood Reservoir\View of Nature Reserve from the layby © Bob Johnson

Before human intervention, the Weirwood Reservoir was a valley of the River Medway. By their nature, river valleys are ancient sites, and this valley is no exception. The warmer, wetter climate that followed the last glaciation meant a much greater flow of water into the river. Thus sometime between 6000 and 2300 BC, when people of the Middle Stone Age hunted in the area, they might have seen a broad deep river filling the valley, closely surrounded by a thick forest of oak and alder.

Two Mesolithic flint implements were found in the exceptionally dry conditions of 1976, showing that people were in the area, both were small cutting tools of primitive design.

There is a great gap in the records until the use of the site as an iron works in Roman times. A large slagheap at Walesbeech (beside an inlet on the south bank) marks the precise location. The slag was the residue of an iron smelter or bloomery, which may have been worked for a period sometime between 70 and 210 AD. There was also a late 16th Century iron furnace and forge named “Stone” located by the river at a site now under the west end of the reservoir.

The actual reservoir itself however, originated in 1954 when a stream from the River Medway, in the valley south of Standen House was dammed. Some of the agricultural land became water

Heron carrying nesting material to Heronry © Peter Johnson

28

Bird Ringing a young Barn Owl © Peter Johnson

meadows, hedges grew and un-grazed fields started to revert to scrub. This created a set of different habitats for wildlife. The reservoir was, at that time, the largest area of open water in the whole of Sussex.

Naturally bird watchers were soon attracted to the site by the sheer numbers and range of species one could see. In autumn and spring passing migrants pause here; while in winter flocks of duck, geese, etc. find shelter.

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To This

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Whillets Pool & Reed bed taken as seen from the road © Bob Johnson Bird Ringing a Kingfisher ©Peter Johnson

East Sussex council became the sole contractor.

sightings of the wildlife.

These days the eastern end of the reservoir is given over to sporting activities, sailing, canoeing and fishing in the spring/summer months.

In 1988 the western end was classified as a Local Nature Reserve [LNR] which extended in 1994 to the whole of the reservoir; this LNR is managed by a committee of interested bodies including English Nature - two local nature observers joined this group as they had been recording Great Crested Grebes in Sussex.

In 1966, this extensive birdlife led to the reservoir being given the status of an area of Special Scientific Interest [SSSI].

The western part of the reservoir is shallower and in dry periods extensive mud banks are exposed which attract water birds and waders. Summer drought can lead to a small meandering stream representing the original course of the River Medway.

These muddy fringes become a blaze of colour with extensive swathes of Purple Loosestrife.

In 2005 and 2011 when severe drought struck the old road actually became visible crossing the central area.

Male Mandarin Duck © Bob Johnson

In those days the two Sussex counties employed ecologists who recognised a potential nature reserve site and contracted with the water company to maintain the wildlife of the area. Countryside rangers were employed, assisted by trainee rangers in a scheme to prepare them for a career in wildlife management - in 1974

30

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Great White Egret © Bob Johnson Osprey at Nature Reserve © Peter Johnson

The reserve extends beyond Whillet’s Bridge [Grinstead Lane] where grassland is crossed by streams feeding the river and liable to continuous flooding.

In the mid 1990’s some of the observers started assisting the ranger in maintaining the reserve which led in 1996 to the formation of the Friends of Weirwood Society. Increasing volunteer numbers enabled more extensive work in the reserve.

Then in 2013 council cutbacks and financial stringency at Southern Water (the reservoir owners) resulted in maintenance of the reserve being fully taken

over by the Friends of Weirwood Society members, assisted only by a ranger who carries out machine work.

Over time the friends have built up their natural history knowledge and expertise in habitat management, however they always welcome new members especially those with specialist knowledge.

Forthcoming event: Friday 8 April 2016 at 8pm.

The best observation point is at the Hide Car Park. The land is private but the friends arrange a public open day in July and a Members’ Day in May when visitors can enter areas of the reserve.

Friends of Weirwood Nature Reserve Society: An illustrated talk about Broadstone Stream, Forest Row. Guy Woodward and Alan Hildrew from University of London. Probably the world’s longest running, 40 years, continuing detailed study of a stream. A fascinating insight into the effect of environmental changes on the invertebrates and on food chains in this Ashdown Forest stream.

Specialist biological knowledge not necessary. Entrance fee - a donation. At the Community Centre, Hartfield Road, Forest Row, RH18 5DZ. See www.weirwood.me.uk for details of how to join, sightings and a fantastic photo gallery.

Fairy Inkcap fungi at Car Park © Bob Johnson

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33

What’s On in March

If you would like your event on these pages email info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk for information

Friday 4th March

Wednesday 16th March

You’ve Never Had It So Good. In the immediate post war years the pace of change began accelerating and by the end of the 1950s people were daring to think that life was good once again.

With music and humour of the time this is a lively audio-visual talk that looks back at a period of social history in Britain that was summed up by local MP and Prime Minister Harold MacMacmillan in these words in 1959. At 8pm, Groombridge Village Hall.

Groombridge Amateur Dramatic Society present Frederick Knott’s fabulous play Dial M for Murder.

Tickets Wed 16th/Thurs 17th March £9/£6 (conc.) from Groombridge post office or on the door.

Supper nights Fri 18th/Sat 19th March from box office only 01892 860493. Licensed Bar from 7:15pm, 7:45pm, Groombridge Village Hall, TN3 9QX. Saturday 19th March

Chelwood Gate Village Market. Come along to our Spring Market at Chelwood Gate Village Hall.

Locally sourced produce, including meat, cheese, wine, vegetables, craft stalls, jewellery, cards, plants, hot snacks, coffee and teas and Tombola. At 10am to 2pm, Chelwood Gate Village Hall, RH17 7LF.

Wednesday 9th March

An insight into Oathall School Farm. Recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list, Howard Woods MBE retired recently, having run school farms for over 40 years. He served on the DFES growing schools committee, acting as an advisor to HRH The Prince of Wales. Talk presented by the Lindfield Horticultural Society, at 8pm, King Edward Hall, Lindfield.

Saturday 19th March

A Patchwork Mass. Forest Row Choral Society presents highlights from major works spanning four centuries: Palestrina, Liszt, Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, Cherubini Poulenc, Part, Haydn. Tickets £15 on the door or in advance from Seasons, Forest Row (under 16s free) 7:30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row, RH18 5AF.

Thursday 10th March

Groombridge Horticultural Society - Evening Event. A talk by Kent Turner on Perennials and Mixed Borders. All are welcome and tea, coffee and biscuits will be served. Free for members or £3 for nonmembers to include full membership for the 2016 year. At 8pm, Groombridge Village Hall (New Hall).

Saturday 19th March

Thursday 10th March

Concert: Forest Row Choral Society. The choir presents ‘A Patchwork Mass’ from old favourites - Bach, Haydn and Vivaldi to the less well-known including Cherubini, Palestrina, Poulenc and Arvo Part. Conductor: Tom Scratchley. Tickets £15 on the door or in advance from Seasons, Forest Row. Under16s free. At 7:30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row.

War Artists: Spies and the Art of Deception.

Nicholas Reed’s talk includes official war artists such as the art historian Sir Anthony Blunt, as well as totally fictitious characters such as the Spaniard Tomas Harris. He will also tell listeners how deception and mis-direction are used in warfare.

Ashdown Forest Decorative and Fine Arts Society members free of charge, guests £6. At 2:30pm, Nutley Village Hall, High Street, Nutley TN22 3NE.

Saturday 26th March

Lindfield Bonfire Society Easter Egg Hunt. The Easter Bunny has given Lindfield Bonfire Society some of his eggs, but to find one of them, you’ll need to follow the clues in the garden of The Red Lion in the High Street. At 1pm to 4pm. Children are welcome to join in the fun for a £1 donation to Lindfield Bonfire Society, but only if they bring along a grown up!

Saturday 12th March

Crowborough Lions, present their annual Big Quiz. Tickets £8 per head. Includes ploughman’s platter supper + licenced bar. Any number of persons but maximum of 8 per team. 1st prize £125.00, 2nd prize £75.00, 3rd prize £25. Advance tickets only. Contact David Brown, 01892 655530 or email dgjb@btinternet.com. At 6:30pm for 7.30pm start, Crowborough community centre.

Wednesday 30th March

Free Fun and Safety Event at Uckfield Fire Station with penalty shoot out competition, children’s entertainer, community safety, fire engines, arts and crafts, refreshments. No parking on site. Children aged 10 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult. At 10am - 1pm. Uckfield Fire Station, TN22 1BA. Call: 01323 443275.

Sunday 13th March

The Great British Dog Walk in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Adults £12 (£10 online), Children free.

National Trust Sheffield Park and Garden. Contact jo.godden@hearingdogs.org.uk. At 11am, National Trust Sheffield Park and Garden near Uckfield.

34

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Testimonial “It was a real pleasure to have Lewis and Phil constructing our oak-framed garage and Imperial Framing has our highest recommendation. Not only were they extremely hard working, conscientious and diligent but also highly-adept in their traditional skills, concerned to provide value for money and committed to achieving a fabulous result.” Sally and David Lamb

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