Ashdown Forest Living March Issue

March 2017

© Many Thanks to Clive Poole of the Dawn Chorus bird watching walks.

A Photo of a male Dartford Warbler taken at Stonehill on the south of the forest last Spring.

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All Images © RBG Kew / Jeff Eden / Jim Holden

S U P P O R T I N G LO C A L B U S I N E S S

Imagine taking a unique journey through the peaceful and tranquil woodlands of the world – you have space to breathe - you feel relaxed – worries seem a million miles away.

Beyond Wakehurst’s world famous botanic gardens and Millennium Seed Bank lies an enchanted world of woodlands – in fact more than 500 acres of both native and managed woods, including the Loder Valley nature reserve – just waiting for you to discover.

In the year of the 30th anniversary of The Great Storm, Wakehurst is celebrating a year of wonderful woodlands. More than 20,000 trees were lost during the storm which seemed devastating at the time but after rigorous replanting the landscape has been completely rejuvenated.

In the managed arboreta, trees are planted out according to the country they are native to. This careful arrangement means you can go on an adventure through the temperate woodlands of the world without having to dust off your passport.

Closer to home, a new woodland trail will wind through one of Wakehurst’s

most beautiful oak woodlands.

From charcoal burning and bodging to coppicing and dormice, the trail will help to unlock the woodland’s secrets and reveal its hidden charms.

Combining elements of sculpture, play, art, music and science.

Wakehurst’s woodland highlights* Woodland secrets Easter egg trail, 8 – 17 April.

Stunning bluebell displays from late April to mid-May. Guided woodland walks, 26 and 29 April.

Friends of Wakehurst evening opening with exclusive access to behind the scenes woodland activities, 28 April.

Wild Wood festival. An action packed bank holiday weekend for all the family, 27 – 29 May. Summer holiday woodland fun. Weekly activities including: bush craft, wild cooking, tree climbing and mini beast hunts.

Adult day tickets: £12.50.

Children: FREE (16 and under).

Friends of Wakehurst annual membership from £25. *some activities incur extra cost

Wakehurst is located between Ardingly and Turners Hill on the B2028 For V i s idetails t : w w w visit . a s h dkew.org/wakehurst ownforestliving.co.uk Please mention us when responding to adverts

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Dear Residents, Whats inside this month Welcome to the March issue.

Spring is nearly here, thank goodness!

This month we bring you an article about Broadwater Warren and its regeneration and how it is gaining ground in the flora and fauna stakes year on year. We also have a Q&A with the Conservation Officer Recipe of Ashdown Forest.

FROM

For the Love of Cats TO THE

There is a wonderful old map of this area which we’re publishing for you to have a good peruse over.

As it is Spring you may be thinking of commencing work in your home and garden. We hope that within these pages you can find local tradesmen, etc. that can help you with your upcoming projects. As well as our many other local advertisers offering products and services.

Phoenix Comics

A National Profile for Local RDA

Here’s hoping we have a fabulous start to Spring and lovely warm weather ahead.

With Best Wishes, Tally & Chris

Times Gone By

10 Year Anniversary of Broadwater Warren

Ashdown Forest Living To advertise call 01342 300152 info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk www.ashdownforestliving.co.uk FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Keep this directory handy for when you need it

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

A picture that tells a thousand words

Local News

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 2017. 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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T IM E S G O N E B Y

A V I E W O F C R O W B O R O U G H TO W N I N 1950

N U T L E Y I N N - C .1 9 0 5

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Roasted Scottish Beef Sirloin Gruyere Potato Gratin, Wild Mushrooms

By Andrew Wilson, Exec Head Chef at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club

Ingredients • 300g beef sirloin • 3 cloves garlic, crushed • 150g wild mushrooms • 4 large baking potatoes • 500ml double cream • 2 garlic cloves, whole • 100g grated gruyere cheese • 200 g baby spinach • ½ bunch of thyme

Method

5. Remove the foil, sprinkle the grated gruyere on top and place under a hot grill until golden brown. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

1. Season the beef with salt and pepper. In a hot pan, add a dash of olive oil and place the beef in, sealing all sides.

6. While the potatoes and beef are cooking, wash your spinach in fresh water and rinse a couple of times to get rid of the dirt, then leave in a sieve to drain.

2. Put the beef into a roasting tin, add the garlic and a few springs of thyme, then place in a pre-heated oven at 170°C for 35- 40 minutes (if you have a meat thermometer, it should be 32°C for medium-rare). After cooking leave the beef to rest for a good 10-12 minutes.

7. Brush any dirt off the wild mushrooms with a paint brush (do not wash them in water), then cut them down into evenly sized pieces.

8. To cook the wild mushrooms, in a pan add a dash of olive oil and a small knob of butter and cook them for 2-3 minutes, then place into a bowl. Add another small amount of butter to the pan, add the spinach with salt and pepper and cook until soft and tender, the mix with the mushrooms and serve alongside the beef and potatoes

3. Peel the potatoes and slice very finely on a mandolin or with a very sharp knife. Warm the cream with a pinch of salt and pepper, 2 cloves of garlic and a couple of springs of thyme, then pass through a sieve to remove garlic and thyme pieces.

4. Lay your sliced potatoes in a small rectangular oven dish, about 7-8 slices deep, making sure you season each layer. Pour over the cream, cover in tin foil and bake for 45-50 minutes.

Test the potatoes are cooked by pushing a knife in, it should pass through the potatoes smoothly when the potatoes are soft.

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club Wych Cross, RH18 5JR HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB

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Contact: Maxine Briggs MCFHP MAFHP Tel: 07711 986776 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

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With Grateful thanks to Ian Berry of Vintage Pics for providing this best selling map for us to publish.The map, reference 2004 was drawn

by John Kelton in 1747 when the forest was known as Lancaster Great Park. It is available in greeting card form and 2 sizes of mounted print.

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Full details are available on the East Sussex page of his website, www.vintagepics.co.uk, Tel: 07887 395272.

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FOR THE LOVE OF CATS

The winner of the British Wildlife Centre’s ‘Photo of the Year’ last year was awarded to Bob Matthews for his wonderful family portrait of Kendra the Scottish Wildcat and her three gorgeous kittens (it won ‘Photo of the Month’ in May). by another body or, even worse, a youngster running out of shot just as the shutter is released. Capturing all kittens in contact with their mother conveys her love for them and their dependence on her. I particularly like the way they are grouped together in a diagonal line, which enhances the composition. Well done and congratulations Bob!"

The winner of the British Wildlife Centre's 'Photo of the Year' last year was awarded to Bob Matthews for his wonderful family portrait of Kendra the Scottish Wildcat and her three gorgeous kittens (it won 'Photo of the Month' in May).

Oxted resident Bob (age 59) is a long-time member of the British Wildlife Centre (BWC) and his wonderful photograph was selected by renowned wildlife photographer Heather Angel, who said:

Bob has been a keen photographer since his youth, acquiring a particular interest in wildlife photography over the last 10 years.

To view all twelve of BWC's 'Photos of the Month' visit:

"It is always difficult to get an animal family portrait without one individual's face masked

www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk/photography.

The British Wildlife Centre is on the A22, near Lingfield.

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West Park Road, Newchapel, Surrey RH7 6NB | Phone: 01342 837 952 The gardens here at the Temple are some 28 acres excluding the buildings, and are traditional English country gardens with wonderful walks through the parkland.

We have woodland walks on well maintained and wheelchair freindly paths. with Bluebells, Wood Anemones, not to mention the trees - Oaks, Atlantic Ceders, Lime Trees, and Yew Trees, the list goes on.

We are happy to cater for local school groups, youth organisations, senior citizen organisations, W.I’s, horticultural/gardening clubs, religious groups and any individuals with an interest of the above.

Find us on the web www.lds.org/placestovisit Follow the London Temple Visitor’s Centre on Facebook “The walk around the gardens was a revelation in itself, and to be able to do it on such a lovely day was just perfect.

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Working as a dedicated team, we can provide all the services required to create the garden or outdoor space of you dreams.

Specialising in traditional country gardens, or modern town gardens, large or small. We can design any space to suit your individual needs.whether it is a family friendly place to relax after a busy day or an interesting space for parties and play.

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A NATIONAL PROFILE FOR LOCAL RDA The Riding for the Disabled Association is a vibrant and progressive charity that operates across the area. Riders come to enjoy the experience of riding, carriage driving, show jumping, dressage endurance and western style, with opportunities to learn a new skill, enter competitions or even take a holiday. For the past decade, the region has been sponsored by East Grinstead’s Cowan Architects who’s vision to improve the quality of life across all manner of disabilities makes them ideal supporters of RDA across the South East.

The Riding for the Disabled Association is a vibrant and progressive charity that operates across the area. Riders come to enjoy the experience of riding, carriage driving, show jumping, dressage endurance and western style, with opportunities to learn a new skill, enter competitions or even take a holiday. For the past decade, the region has been sponsored by East Grinstead’s Cowan Architects who’s vision to improve the quality of life across all manner of disabilities makes them ideal supporters of RDA across the South East.

participants are key to the success of the organisation and many work tirelessly for decades. Happily, their work does not go unnoticed with regular awards for service being handed out. But the highest accolade comes from the RDA President herself, HRH the Princess Royal and just recently Carol Rycroft of Court Meadow Group (nr Haywards Heath) has been chosen to receive this honour.

The coaches are also tasked with keeping their knowledge and training up to date so that they can provide the best experience for their participants. Just recently a very special

The many volunteers who run these organisations and act as coaches to the

Continues over the page.

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A NATIONAL PROFILE FOR LOCAL RDA CONTINUED

seminar and demonstration was provided at Ardingly which featured not only well-known local figures in the equitation world, but also a horse behaviour specialist who flew in from Scotland to help more than 60 group coaches and volunteers.

who have a difficult behaviour that needs to be managed: Nutmeg, a driving pony from Heron’s Ghyll group near Uckfield, gets anxious in new surroundings, when separated from friends and can also be very strong to lead; Bill is a riding pony from Bradbourne group near Sevenoaks who is frightened of scissors and clippers, while stablemate, Disney, rushes when ridden; Lastly, Alicia from Epsom RDA reacts when the leg is applied as an aid when being ridden.

The day kicked off with Ali Remman and Rachel Roberts from the Ashdown Forest Group examining the need for diversity in what a Group offers and shared their philosophy for the need to integrate their RDA participants fully with the yard so that they become part of the team. Since taking this approach, their young riders have blossomed and gained confidence, with many finding that poo picking, making the feeds, grooming and mucking out were favourite activities. Each session is devised into various sections, these can include riding, leading and handling, long reining and all aspects of stable management.

Great strides were made with their education and it is good to see so much ground-breaking progress being made on our doorstep with the RDA.

Gemma Pearson is Veterinary Liaison Officer for the International Society of Equitation Science and currently studying for a PhD at the University of Edinburgh. She gave a fascinating lecture and demonstration using her extensive experience in equine behaviour and the application of Learning Theory to show how quickly and calmly ‘problem’ horses can be re-wired to behave in a more positive, safe manner.

Gemma did some practical work with four RDA horses and ponies from local groups

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10 Year Anniversary of Broadwater Warren

By Matt Twydell, Warden, Weald Reserves It is now 10 years since the RSPB acquired Broadwater Warren. The site sits in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB) which was once part of the medieval forest of Waterdown.

Clive Poole of the Dawn Chorus bird watching walks.

When BWW was first acquired, it consisted of a swathe of immature and mature Scots pine from a conifer plantation.

The 185ha site has now been restored back to the historic open landscape comprising a range of different habitats, the main two being lowland heathland and woodland.

As you may know, lowland heaths have been managed by man for thousands of years. The cessation of traditional management is one of several reasons why lowland heaths have disappeared (others being development pressure and land use change such as afforestation), and since the 1800s 80% of lowland heath has disappeared. Looking at historical maps BWW would have once been one of several stepping stones connecting up to Ashdown Forest.

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The first few years were about carrying out research and surveys to find out what species were present.

The next stage was the removal of the conifer plantation to start the slow process of reverting the woodlands back to deciduous and restore the open landscape of lowland heath. This was carried out gradually to reduce disturbance to the wildlife.

Each year up to 2017, areas of conifer were removed, Continues over the page.

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S U P P O R T I N G LO C A L B U S I N E S S In honour of Mother's Day this March, a poem by Rudyard Kipling (we choose it, not least because Kipling made his home at Batemans, close to the Ashdown Forest area).

Mother o’ Mine Rudyard Kipling, 1865 - 1936

If I were hanged on the highest hill, Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

I know whose love would follow me still, Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

If I were drowned in the deepest sea, Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

I know whose tears would come down to me, Mother o’ mine, O mother o’ mine!

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Rachael has found that being a female designer gives her an edge: “I design from a practical view point. Most people who use kitchens are women and I can relate to the need to balance aesthetics with function”.

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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23

ARTICLE : 10 Year Anniversary of Broadwater Warren

sometimes sections being as large as 20ha at a time.

As each part was removed the top layer of humic soil was removed to expose the hidden heather seeds to the light and warmth of the sun. Heather seeds can stay dormant for over 50 years.

The restoration has created a home for an array of different species (see the heathland bird graph).

The woodland is being slowly restored back to deciduous woodland to help create the ideal habitat for a range of woodland bird species such as lesser spotted woodpecker, marsh tit and spotted flycatcher which have all seen declines nationally of 70%+ since the 1970s. Areas of woodland are also being coppiced to improve the structure of the woodland for dormice as well as improve the ground flora such as violets and honeysuckle, which are the food plants for silver-washed fritillary and white admiral.

Broadwater Warren now has a mosaic of habitats, from wet woodland with its iron-rich

pools and Sphagnum moss to open heathlands where reptiles bask in the sun, such as adders.

Ponds have been created across the reserve in the woods and on the heath; already 18 species of dragonfly and damselfly have been recorded on site.

10 years has gone past fast but, with the help from different funding streams and the hard work of volunteers and staff, RSPB Broadwater Warren shows how lost habitats and landscapes can be restored within just 10 years, to not only give rare species a home but to allow people to enjoy the wildlife that has returned.

We now enter the next phase on the nature reserve, bringing back traditional management such as grazing; 15 Exmoors help graze the site in the summer, while scrub removal and heather cutting is being carried out by staff and volunteers.

We look forward to see what further species return and how the site develops over the next 10 years; all we know now is that the nature reserve is secured as a home for future generations of wildlife and for people to enjoy.

As this is our 10-year anniversary we will be holding several events throughout the year, from Continues over the page.

Scraping at Broadwater

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ARTICLE : 10 Year Anniversary of Broadwater Warren

family days to volunteer taster days, so please keep an eye out on our events page on our website or within the pages of Ashdown Forest Living.

crossbills, stonechat, woodcock, snipe, reed bunting (which is an uncommon bird at Broadwater!), raven and Dartford warbler which were heard calling near the nightjar viewpoint! Strangely enough a ring-necked parakeet, a species never before seen on the reserve, was spotted last month which brings the total to 92 bird species seen since the RSPB took over in 2007!

NEWS: Preparing for Springtime at Broadwater As ground nesting birds will be setting up territories and nesting on the heath, the aim last month was to remove all unwanted scrub species to halt succession on parts of the heath before the birds move in.

For any visitors, listen out for woodlarks which can be heard singing as they begin setting up their territories. Next time you are having a stroll through Broadwater, cock your ears to the incredibly beautiful increasing downward lilt.

Various compartments were scraped of their top layer of humic soil by hardworking contractors. The purpose? To bring back patches of heath to its pioneer phase and encourage the silver-studded blue butterfly.

This rare butterfly has a restricted range but can occur in large numbers in suitable heathland or coastal habitats, although its range is usually further restricted by the fact that it relies on black ant species for breeding - the larvae will produce honeydew-like liquid to feed the ants in return for protection from predators. Although they have not been recorded on the reserve for years, they have been observed on nearby heathland at Ashdown Forest and so it is possible that they may disperse further, making Broadwater an important stepping stone – so keep your eyes (and camera lenses) open!

Last month the focus was on birch and pine clearing on the heathland and creating habitat piles. This tiring but rewarding work is very important for bird species. Pine and birch clearing stops succession from occurring and reduces nutrient enrichment. The heathland will develop into a more mature structure of heather which attracts lowland heathland birds such as nightjar, woodlark and tree pipit, as well as the rare Dartford warbler. The habitat piles created from clearing also provide excellent nesting opportunities for various species such as whitethroats and stonechats.

Recent sightings on the reserve have included

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© David Sandison

A picture that tells a thousand words Although this is, strictly speaking, a little outside of our area, we thought it was close enough and good-newsy enough to share it with you: Last month Raymond Briggs, who lives in Westmeston, a small hamlet about half an hour from Ashdown Forest, won the prestigious BookTrust 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award.

The iconic children’s author and illustrator is famed for The Snowman, Fungus the Bogeyman and Ethel and Ernest (his graphic novel/animated film for adults).

showed interest in cartooning from an early age and attended various art schools. He briefly pursued painting before becoming a professional illustrator, winning several awards throughout his extended career, including the 1966 and 1973 Kate Greenaway Medals from the British Library Association, the Horn Book Award in 1979 and the British Book Award in 1993 and 1999.

The award was set up in 2015 to celebrate the body of work of an author or illustrator who has made an outstanding contribution to children’s literature and the first winner was Shirley Hughes, author of Dogger and the Alfie series, whilst Judith Kerr was awarded the accolade in 2016.

The adjudicating panel is made up of six judges including writer Nicolette Jones, current Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell, author and illustrator Cressida Cowell, poet John Agard, Shami Chakrabarti, Britain’s leading human rights campaigner, and Book Trust’s CEO Diana Gerald.

Discussing the impact of Raymond Briggs’ work, judge Shami Chakrabarti said: “Raymond is a true artistic genius who has touched the hearts of millions of children of all ages. They say that a picture is worth a thousand words and his particular style of illustration is unmistakable as are his understated and poignant words of narrative and dialogue. His talent expresses his values and with his choice and treatment of subjects he brings our history and contemporary challenges to life.”

Briggs, who has become synonymous with Christmas, said: “It’s lovely to be given an award for all my life achievements. Drawing, telling stories and sharing these adventures is something I’ve always been passionate about. Being awarded the BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award is an incredible honour and I’m so glad I’ve been able to make such an impression on people.”

CEO of Book Trust Diana Gerald said: “It is truly an honour to be presenting our third Lifetime Achievement Award to someone with such captivating and inspiring work. Raymond continues to have such a widespread impact on both children and adults and the award is so very well deserved.”

Raymond’s most noted works include the classic Christmas tales The Snowman and Father Christmas, as well as Fungus the Bogeyman, Ug, The Bear, When the Wind Blows, Gentleman Jim and Ethel and Ernest.

Born in 1934 to dad Ernest, a milkman, and Ethel, a former lady’s maid-turned-housewife, Briggs

Many congratulations to Mr. Briggs!

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News from the Forest This month we bring you a Q&A with Conservation Officer Steve Alton about the current goings on.

1.75 miles/3km miles/3km

Please explain the current projects for Ashdown Forest?

With the review of governance and funding for the forest, what are the biggest issues that the team are fighting for?

From Linton’s Linton’s car car park parkcross crossthe theroad road(with (withcare) care)into intoRidge Ridge car park park (summer (summer only). only). Walk Walkout outofofthe therear rearpast pasta a seat seat onto onto a grass grass path path and andin inabout about50m 50mturn turnleft leftonto ontoaaride. ride.

Remain Remain onon this gently gently descending descendingride, ride,ignoring ignoringanother anotherthat that bears bears offoff Most what we do on the forest is about right, for right, for about aboutof 400m.

400m.

controlling the spread of invasive species,

On both left and right are linear quarries, some them like birch, gorse and now filled with of scrub and native trees. Such quarriesbracken, dot the Forest landscape and others introduced, such as Japanese provided stone for roads. Typical heathland knotweed.

The special interest of the forest birds such as nightjar, stonechat, tree pipit and woodlark breedof in this and important wildlife (andusually it is one thearea most the ride edges in particular are one of the sites in the south-east) depends on the open best places on the Forest (indeed in Sussex) landscape of heathland, to see, in May, the yellow flowers of thescrub and woodland. small spiny shrub, petty whin.

Our conservation work is well funded, at least in the short term; it is the amenity work, such as car park maintenance and litter picking, and the everyday work of the rangers, such as surveying dangerous trees and walking the boundaries of the forest, that are likely to suffer. And some of those could have a big, obvious impact on people’s experience of visiting the forest.

That open landscape would be lost without So through we graze, and the The ridemanagement. bears left, then right a break in mow the quarries bracken, and burn the to gorse in late winter, and continues descending for 400m a metalled drive (Sandyto Lane) maintain . On the left is a bowling green and ahead are the a mosaic of habitats.

What are the upcoming projects?

cricket pitch and pavilion of Coleman’s Hatch Cricket Club.

What is the most challenging part to taking care of the forest?

A great many people still have rights, as commoners, to graze livestock on the forest, and we are obliged to support that right. One way we are trying to help more commoners graze the forest is through ‘invisible’ fencing.

This uses a buried cable to restrict the movement of cattle, which wear a collar with a sensor. As there is no actual fence above ground, there is no visual impact on the forest and the public’s right to free access is not compromised. The system has been trialled for a couple of years now, and we’d like to extend it to additional areas of the forest in future.

This will bring back one of its ancient uses of creating the landscape that people know and love today.

I think the fact that it is constantly trying to revert to woodland; everything we do is a fight against natural processes. And you might ask why bother? Why not just let nature take its course? But the fact is that the unique habitats of the forest, and the rare species they support, are here because of thousands of years of human activity and if we were to cease that activity, something very special would be lost. Heathland is rarer than tropical rainforest, on a global scale, whereas woodland (at least in the High Weald) is pretty common. We have a moral as well as a legal obligation to stop that heathland from disappearing.

M O T H E R ’ S D AY Q U O T E S “My mother said I must always be intolerant of ignorance but understanding of illiteracy. That some people, unable to go to school, were more educated and more intelligent than college professors.”

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“A mother’s love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity, it dates all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path.”

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On the hill-top in the distance is Gills Lap Clump, the Galleons Lap of the Winnie-the-Pooh books. One old name for the Clump was The Camel’s Hump, from the shape formed by the silhouettes of its pine trees. In the 1920s, when the picture (left) was taken, there were Providing a turnkey solution for all of your refurbishment needs: Concept, Design, Drawing, Structural very few trees on the surrounding slopes,Engineering just open heathland.

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woodland is most unusual for the public Equestrian construction Curtains & blinds part of the Forest withfrom its many largeof hours advice, Services available a couple trees, especially beech, and & several to full scale design build projects hectares of planted sweet chestnut coppice. The area was sold off from the All projects are personally common land of the Forest in 1693 and overseen

by Sue Risley who only ‘returned’ during World Warprovides Two in exceptional to detail. exchange for attention the compulsory purchase of projects land elsewhere for military reasons.

All are based on a fixed price In the map of 1931 (below) the heavily wooded Ghyll is in marked contrast to the heath to the north of the stream – a reflection of different land use over 250 years.

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What’s On in March

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

WEDNESDAY 8TH MARCH

SATURDAY 18TH MARCH

Lindfield Horticultural Society "The Revival of an Arts & Crafts Garden at Standen" - a talk by Sue Greig. Come along to hear about the highs and lows of the five year project to reinstate the garden at Standen back to its former glory of the 1920s. Entry £1 members, £2 visitors. All welcome, at 8pm, King Edward Hall, High Street, Lindfield.

Chelwood Gate Village Market. A wide variety of locally sourced produce including meat, cheese, vegetables, chutneys, cakes and pastries, craft stalls, jewellery, cards and plants. Hot snacks, teas and coffee.

At 10am to 2pm, Chelwood Gate Village Hall, RH17 7LF. MONDAY 20TH MARCH Ontario, Canada. Talk given by local resident Phil Holland. At 7:45pm, The East Grinstead Natural History Society, St Barnabas Church Hall, Dunnings Road, East Grinstead.

THURSDAY 9TH MARCH Ashdown Forest Decorative and Fine Arts Society: Murder And Modernism - Walter Richard Sickert and the Camden Town Group. Join us to hear Nicola Moorby BA MA introduce us to the core members of the Camden Town Group, the innovative circle of painters united by the desire to paint works of a modern character. Members free of charge, visitors £6 or complimentary if you join the society at the meeting. At 2pm, Crowborough Community Centre, Pine Grove, Crowborough, TN6 1FE.

MONDAY 20TH MARCH St Thomas the Apostle Church, Groombridge. The Hermitage Ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia, comprises five male singers who will be performing a cappella. Their programme includes sacred music from the Russian Orthodox Church and folk songs.

The performance commences at 7:30pm. Tickets are available at £15 from Shirley Harrison on 01892 882536, St Thomas the Apostle Church, Groombridge.

SATURDAY 11TH & SUNDAY 12TH MARCH The East Grinstead Model Railway Club will be holding their annual Model Railway Exhibition at Sackville School, East Grinstead. Sat 10am5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. 17 layouts; traders; Bluebell Railway. Adults £4.50, concessions £3.50. Children (5-16) £3.50, family (2+2) £15.00, children under 5 free. Refreshments, wheelchair access. Free parking.

Sackville School, RH19 3TY.

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH HoneyLeaf Creative Writing Workshop - Head in the Clouds. Taking inspiration from nature and the basic elements that provide the foundation to life.

Saturday morning workshops in the cosy armchairs upstairs at The Bookshop in East Grinstead: £20 per workshop. To book, email: hello@honeyleafwriting. com. For people who want to write stories, poems, journals, blog posts or simply have something to say.

10am – 12 noon, 22 High Street, RH19 3AW.

TUESDAY 14TH - FRIDAY 17TH MARCH Groombridge Amateur Dramatic Society Spring Production: Close Encounters II. Four short tales of country life and personal relationships. An evening of fun and laughter. Saturday 18th March Supper Night (pre-booking required). Tickets (£9/£6 conc.) available from Village Store, Village Community Café and on the door. Supper Night tickets (£16) and other online sales from our website: groombridgetheatre.co.uk (booking charge applies).

At 7:30pm, Supper Night at 7:15pm, Groombridge Village Hall TN3 9QX.

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH 1839 Consort Concert. Heralded as “A pearl of culture in the Ashdown Forest”, the talented 1839 Consort’s celebration of music includes works by Purcell (Welcome to all the pleasures), Britten (Hymn to St. Cecilia), Elgar (There is sweet music), and the thrilling Dixit Dominus by Monteverdi. Profits from the concert in aid of St. John’s building fund. Tickets £10, under 16s free, to include interval refreshments.

At 7:30pm, St. John's Church, Crowborough.

THURSDAY 16TH MARCH

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH & 1ST APRIL

Mid Sussex Friends of the Donkey Quiz Night.

Entry £5 per person to include a light snack, teams of no more than 6. Reserve your table now on 01444 470128. All proceeds to Safe Haven for Donkeys in the Holy Land (charity 1083468), arrive from 7 for 8pm start, The Woolpack, Burgess Hill, RH15 8NN.

Lambing Celebration. Tablehurst Farm welcomes you to celebrate the lambing season! Come and see the lambs and their mothers in the barn Saturdays 25th March & 1st April 2017. Café serving organic refreshments, organic BBQ from 11:30 - 3pm, live music,

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Enquiries: 01342 300152 Please mention us when responding to adverts

S U P P O R T I N G LO C A L B U S I N E S S

Your Local Satellite TV, Aerial, CCTV & Data Networking Specialists

Satellite

Aerials

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10% off any aerial work with this advert!

Visit us at: www.norsat.co.uk

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Oak Garages Oak Carports Oak Garden rooms Oak Home offices Oak Pool houses Oak Porches

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Call us on: 01342 349440

Oak Conservatories Oak Orangeries Oak Barns Oak Workshops/Commercial Design & Planning services

For more information call: 07766 188841 www.imperialframing.co.uk enquiries@imperialframing.co.uk ImperialFramingLtd Based in the Ashdown Forest Area

Visit: w w w.ashdownforestliving.co.uk Please mention us when responding to adverts

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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

SATURDAY 1ST APRIL

face painting, crafts & much more. Come and see the animals in the fields and see how your food is grown.

11am - 4pm, London Road, Forest Row, RH18 5DP.

Groombridge Horticultural Society Spring Show.

All welcome to come and see the many entries and enjoy some afternoon tea. Full details are on our website (www.ghsgc.org.uk). At 2:30pm with prizegiving at 4pm, Groombridge Village Hall.

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH Community Resilience Event. An interactive, informative and fun event for all ages focusing on community resilience. Come along and engage with the utilities and services we use every day. Visit with the local fire and rescue team or watch first aid demonstrations. If this all gets too much enjoy a nice cup of tea and slice of homemade cake at the community café. We look forward to seeing you there. At 10am, Groombridge Village Hall.

SUNDAY 2ND APRIL RSPCA South Godstone Easter Fayre. Games and competitions for all the family and our Easter Egg hunt for the kids. BBQ, hot & cold food and cakes. Entrance to the fayre is free but donations appreciated. Easter Egg hunt £3 per child. Tours of centre £1 per person, under-16s go free. At 11am - 4pm, RSPCA South Godstone Animal Centre, Eastbourne Road/A22, South Godstone, RH9 8JB.

WEDNESDAY 29TH MARCH Coffee, Cake and Computers. Free drop-in sessions.

Learn more about computers in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere: keep safe online, Facebook and Twitter, emails - watch TV and movies, listen to the radio, use the web and shop online, store and share photos, Skype, hobbies online, bring your own device. 10am 12pm at Luxford Centre, Uckfield, TN22 1AR. Tel: 01892 602757, email: digitalskills@wealden.gov.uk.

SATURDAY 8TH APRIL

FRIDAY 31ST MARCH

Crowborough Choral Society 50th Anniversary Concert The St. John Passion by J. S. Bach with two choirs, professional soloists and Sussex Sinfonia, at 7pm at All Saints Church Centre, Chapel Green, Crowborough, TN6 1ED. Tickets £15 from www.crowboroughchoral.com, Tester & Jones, Crowborough Shoe Repairs and choir members. This event is kindly sponsored by Tester & Jones. Email: bev@bjworthington.plus.com. Phone: 01892 664823.

Forest Row Choral Society Spring Concert featuring Fauré's Requiem and excerpts from Cherubini's Requiem. Conducted by Tom Scratchley. Soprano soloist: Eloise Irving; bass soloist: Andrew Jacques. At 7:30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row, RH18 5AF. SATURDAY 8TH APRIL

Sir Willard White & The Brodsky Quartet. One of the world's finest and best loved opera singers in concert with the great Brodsky String Quartet. Songs from Porgy and Bess and much much more. Tickets £30 @ www.wegottickets.com. At 8pm (doors open at 7:30pm), Frant Church, High Street, Frant, TN3 9DX. SATURDAY 1ST APRIL

RUNNING UNTIL FRIDAY 31ST MARCH

Lindfield Horticultural Society Spring Show of flowers and produce. Join us to celebrate the horticultural achievements of our fellow gardeners.

Home-made cakes and coffee will be on offer as well as a sale of plants. Entry £1, children free. All welcome, 2-4:45pm, King Edward Hall, High Street, Lindfield.

Out of the Woods: An exhibition of paintings and ceramics by Barbara Harrison, David Harrison, Tony Mills. The Ashdown Forest Centre. Weekends only from 11am - dusk. Wych Cross, RH18 5JP.

Local News

SATURDAY 1ST APRIL St Matthew Passion. East Grinstead Choral Society is honoured and delighted to be joined by internationally celebrated tenor Mark Padmore as Evangelist for this masterpiece of sacred Baroque music. Musical Director Richard Jenkinson, Meridian Ensemble (leader George Clifford) on period instruments. It will be sung in German. Tickets: Adult £15 / £7 student available from Bullfrog Music, Ship Street, East Grinstead, or on our website. For further information visit www.egcs.co.uk. At 6pm, Jubilee Community Centre, Charlwoods Road, East Grinstead, RH19 2HL.

A big thank you to the home schooled children (and parents) who picked 22 bags of litter from the Hindleap Car Park area (in 2 hours). A fantastic effort!!

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Enquiries: 01342 300152 Please mention us when responding to adverts

S U P P O R T I N G LO C A L B U S I N E S S

Award Winning Care Homes

Care homes for people with learning and/or physical disabilities, neurological conditions, acquired brain injury and autism:

Sussex Healthcare is an award winning group of care homes providing over 30 years of healthcare in Sussex. The Group operates 20 homes, predominantly in the West Sussex area, providing over 600 placements, incorporating specialist care provision as well as care for older people.

Care for older people: Clemsfold House Forest Lodge Horncastle House Kingsmead Care Centre Longfield Manor Rapkyns Care Home Upper Mead

Horsham Nutley Sharpthorne Horsham Billingshurst Horsham Henfield

01403 790312 01825 712514 01342 810219 01403 265335 01403 786832 01403 265096 01273 492870

Beechcroft Care Centre and Hazel Lodge

East Grinstead

01342 300499

Beech Lodge and Oak Lodge

Horsham

01403 791725

Horncastle Care Centre

Sharpthorne

01342 813910

Kingsmead Care Centre

Horsham

01403 265335

Kingsmead Lodge

Horsham

01403 211790

Norfolk Lodge

Horsham

01403 218876

Orchard Lodge and Boldings Lodge

Horsham

01403 242278

Rapkyns Care Centre (The Grange)

Horsham

01403 276756

The Laurels

Horsham

01403 220770

Rapkyns Care Home

Horsham

01403 265096

Sycamore Lodge

Horsham

01403 240066

White Lodge

Croydon

02087 632586

Wisteria Lodge and Stable Lodge

Nutley

01825 713082

Woodhurst Lodge

Crawley

01444 401228

STOP PRESS: Brand new purpose built facilities now available to view for anyone wishing to arrange a visit. The service provisions include specialist care facilities for people with acquired brain injury, profound learning and physical disabilities and residential services for people with Autism.

Great care starts with great people – are you one of them?

Due to expansion, Sussex Healthcare has fantastic opportunities to become part of a leading healthcare company that provides exemplary care to the service users in a positive and friendly environment.

If you are thinking of a career in care please visit our website www.sussexhealthcare.co.uk and submit your CV to recruit@sussexhealthcare.co.uk stating the position you are interested in working in.

To find out more about our homes and the services we offer, contact: Corrine Wallace Director of Operations

01403 217 338

Visit: w w w.ashdownforestliving.co.uk

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enquiries@sussexhealthcare.co.uk | www.sussexhealthcare.co.uk Please mention us when responding to adverts