Bognor Regis Post issue 34

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Bognor Regis Post ISSN 2397-8724

BognorRegisPost Your FREE weekly independent newspaper

Thursday, December 22, 2016

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Trains to Santa are popular - Page 3

Christmas Day joy for family CHRISTMAS will be an extra special time for a Fontwell family.

Annabel and Nick Eames have a heartfelt reason to celebrate - their second son, Tommy, is looking forward to opening his presents on Sunday just two years after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

He was desperately ill and his parents and brother and sister were told to prepare for the worst.

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Annabel said: "We feel we went to hell and back during those very dark days, Now we treasure every moment we have as a family. All we want for Christmas is to be together.

"We were always a close family but now we are stronger. We look at life differently and our priorities have changed. We enjoy him, enjoy being at home, enjoy being alive."

Tommy, ten, is in remission, off

medication and returns to hospital for check-ups every three months and six monthly MRI scans.

He is also celebrating receiving a Kids and Teens Star award for bravery from Cancer Research UK in partnership with TK Maxx.

THe ordeal began in summer 2014 when Tommy began to complain of headaches and then back pain. Doctors initially thought they were caused by

migraines.

But, that December, Tommy was taken ill while he was playing in goal for his football team, Barnham Trojans. He had to pull out of the match. A week later, he suffered a seizure and was taken to hospital. It was there specialists broke the devastating news to Annabel and Nick that he had a malignant sPNET brain tumour.

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Trustees are given cottage protest names

by Kevin Smith kevin.smith@sussexpost.co.uk 01243 908506 ext 11 A PETITION with the names of hundreds of protestors about Felpham's most famous building has been handed in.

Novelist Beryl Kingston presented the 500 signatures to members of the Blake's Cottage Trust during a visit to the historic site. She said the petition showed the antipathy towards the trust's plans for the cottage.

"THe trust have created such a rift between themselves and the community.

It's a tremendous rift. THey don't seem to understand what they have done.

"THe Big Blake Project raised about half of the money for the cottage, apart from the £400,000 donation the trust received.

"THey have never been thanked or acknowledged for it. THey are very angry about it. THey are angry because people feel excluded.

"THey are only allowed in to the cottage on open days when the trust says so.

THat's not the way to get the village onside," she said.

"THe trust are elitist and condescending.

I can't see how they are going to raise money to repair the cottage when they couldn't raise it in the first place."

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Two trustees Peter Johns and Tim Heath were joined at the cottage last THursday

by Samantha Johnson, Historic England's inspector of listed buildings and areas for Surrey and Sussex, pictured above, and two conservation officers from Arun District Council on a tour of the cottage.

Mr Heath said: "We are incredibly grateful to the local community for raising money - nearly £4,000 from individuals.

THey also secured two grants of £12,000.

"But that has to be put into perspective against the £1.5m needed for the cottage.

"If those 500 people who signed the petition donated £10, that would give us £5,000. THat would be helpful.

"It's going to take a long time to do all the work so the cottage will be here in another 400 years. As trustees, we have a duty to take the long view."

Mrs Johnson said: "We have met with the Blake's Cottage Trust and we are encouraged by their clear enthusiasm for the Grade II* listed building as well as their commitment to finding long-term uses for it.

"THe building is now structurally secure and we look forward to a constructive working partnership with the trust, Arun District Council and local people to help secure a sustainable long term future for Blake's Cottage."

House blaze prompts warning from firefighters in town A BLAZE in a property in North Bersted has prompted firefighters to urge residents to take extra care this Christmas.

THe house in Newtown Avenue lacked working smoke alarms. THe family work up in the early stages of the blaze and raised the alarm after they had evacuated the building.

But watch manager Jan Etherington said the situation could have been a lot worse, especially at Christmas.

"THe family were extremely lucky that they woke up and discovered the developing fire underneath the staircase as they didn't have a working

smoke alarm in the property.

"If they had not woken up, it could have had a very different outcome.

"During this festive season, fire risks can increase, with decorations being put up, presents exchanged and large meals cooked."

THe fire began in the early hours of last Wednesday. Two crews from Bognor Regis fire station were mobilised. THe first appliance arrived within four minutes.

Crews found smoke issuing from the ground floor because of a fire beneath the staircase, involving the electrical consumer unit, which was destroyed.

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Thursday, December 22, 2016

News 3

Services to Santa are fun SANTA Specials have been coming down the line in Bognor Regis.

THe festive expresses have been packed with passengers of all ages as they enjoy the special journeys around Hotham Park on its miniature railway.

THe next stop was the North Pole as the park's station was decorated with a mass of decorations and costumed staff to get its younger visitors in the right mood.

Last Saturday was the final day the seasonal service operated and it was another popular occasion for the railway run by Chris Lewis and his business partner, Kim Morgan.

Kim said: "THe Christmas specials have been brilliant. THey have been busier this year than they were last year.

"We had 150 children on the first two days. People have come back from last

year and said it has been 100 per cent bigger and better. We are giving every child a present rather than the selection pack we gave away last year.

"We've had Christmas music playing, a Master Elf getting the children excited and the whole atmosphere is really buzzing. THe children are hyped up and we get them even more hyped up."

THe train rides on the specially decorated four carriages pulled by Boris are accompanied by a visit to Santa's workshop and the chance to play with model railways in two gazebos at the railway station.

Teas and coffees were also available for the first time in aid of the Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice.

"I like seeing the children come along and their faces becoming lit up," she said.

f Festive fun in Hotham Park

Tommy's a star for beating cancer From page one He was given an emergency transfer to Southampton General Hospital but he was too unstable to undergo an operation that day.

"We just had to wait and see if he made it through the night," said Annabel. "It was such a long and scary night."

Tommy survived and surgeons began a 16-hour operation the next morning to remove the tumour. A further two anxious days passed to see if he would come round and how he would be affected. Annabel said: "We were terrified. We couldn't see any way out of it. But we knew Tommy was a stubborn little boy so we had to be totally focused.

We couldn't fall apart."

Tommy could communicate when he came round, with the tiniest smile or wink or squeeze of the hand, but he could not speak.

To add to his parents' upset, his brother and sister - Ben, now 14, and Sophie, now seven - were frightened when they went

to see him on the neurological ward.

Most of Tommy's festive season was spent hooked up to drugs and machines but he was allowed home for a few hours that Christmas Day. During the first operation, surgeons had been unable to remove the brain tumour and Tommy had to endure a second operation in January 2015 which set him back.

But worse was to come as he began 31 daily sessions of head and spinal radiotherapy which meant being pinned to a bed beneath a tight-fitting plastic mask and left alone for treatment.

Annabel explained how hard it was to watch Tommy suffer.

"It was absolutely awful, the hardest part of the treatment," Annabel said.

"Day one was terrible but then we had another 30 days to go. He would scream, tears would run down his face and there were times when we had to pin him down. But to watch him being upset day after day was the worst thing ever, totally heart-breaking."

Radiotherapy was followed by highdose chemotherapy and stem cell reinfusion and four months in isolation, apart from occasional visits home, when he was at heightened risk of infection.

THe treatment often left Tommy sick, in pain, exhausted, unable to eat, very fragile and incredibly weak. He had to learn to walk and talk again and use the right side of his body.

But he fought his way back to health.

His battle against cancer has left him with some limitations. He is partially sighted, struggles with short-term memory loss and cognitive and processing functions.

He has still been able to return to Walberton and Binsted Primary School part-time.

Lynn Daly, Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens spokeswoman for Sussex, said: "It's a privilege to be able to recognise the courage of youngsters like Tommy. He has been through a traumatic experience but, like a true star, he has come out shining and his family couldn't be more proud of him."

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Thursday, December 22, 2016 f Littlehampton Town Band at the concert

Rotarians host Christmas party

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Homes plan sparks letter A STRONGLY-WORDED letter has been sent by Bersted councillors to their MP. THe missive has urged him to speak up for the area's residents in their fight against large housing schemes.

It was agreed by the councillors at their December meeting.

THe letter was prompted by Arun District Council's decision to seek extra locations for new homes to help it to meet the government's target of 919 new homes a year in its new local plan land use blueprint.

THis will involve using sites which many parish councils, backed by their residents, had stated in their neighbourhood plans they wanted kept free from development.

Cllr Martin Lury told the meeting: "THis is sham democracy in many ways. THe whole process has been a complete and utter insult to every parish.

"We have a clear vision for what we want in Bersted and yet we will have imposed upon us schemes which will wreck our area if the Church Commissioners and Langmeads get what they want.

"It's time for our MP, Nick Gibb, to stand up for us no matter what the government's position is. He knows the strength of feeling here and he should get tougher on our behalf.

"I don't dislike him at all, but Nick Herbert MP is doing more for his area and, if we are not careful, we will end up with all the housing being placed on us.

"THe coalescence between Bognor Regis and Chichester could become a frightening reality. I am appalled at the way Arun has treated us on this."

Cllr Yeates said the neighbourhood plan's policies were being ignored in spite of being backed by so many residents.

"Our policy on parking spaces was one that we managed to get through but that is being over-ridden.

"THe quality of life of our residents is going downhill when we should be looking at making it better," she said.

Cllr David Meagher said there were no positives for existing residents from the extra housing. More residents would add pressure on GPs and schools and leave few open spaces.

In Aldwick, its parish councillors were asked by Rose Green resident Albert Homer for their supporters regarding the campaign he leads against more homes around the area.

He explained the impact the extra housing would have on the locality.

He said: “THey will have a direct effect on our community and a great strain on the local area."

Members of the parish council voiced their understanding towards Mr Homer’s view. Chairman Cllr Lillian Richardson said: “We can’t do anything about this at the moment but we do need to discuss it in the future. We have to be very careful about how we approach this. We want to go about it the correct way.”

District councillor Trevor Bence urged councillors to attend a future planning session with Arun. He said: “THere is a lust for Arun to talk to all parishes about all the misunderstandings. It is imperative for you all to understand what is happening. I urge you all to come.”

Play area arson ARSONISTS have badly damaged a new play area in Felpham.

THe firebugs set alight equipment at the site next to the community centre among the new housing on the Blakes Mead estate.

THeir destructive and dangerous actions have been condemned by the site's developer, Barratt Homes.

Tim Hill, the company's managing director, said: "We are deeply saddened by the heartless actions of those responsible for the fire at the St Mary's Place play area.

"What is shocking is the lengths these people went to in order to cause the damage, as the area was fenced off

and secured. We are now assessing the site and what repairs are necessary, as well as speaking with the council and police about how we can ensure this doesn't happen again."

Firefighters were called to the blazing fixtures at 9.39pm last Saturday.

THe items were well alight when they arrived a few minutes later. THey used two hose reels to tackle the flames.

It took them about 25 minutes to put them out. A West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the fire was caused by 'deliberate ignition'.

THe site is so new it is still owned by Barratt Homes while it continues to build the housing.

at the show, was a great crowd pleaser.

"He had the audience in stitches from first to last and his combination of gentle patter, traditional British humour, with the odd cheeky suggestion was ideal."

Rotarian pair Chris Martin and Bob Pavard - with some gentle accompaniment on the piano by last minute stand-in Chris Hicklin - raised a few laughs complete with a few glitches.

THe Littlehampton Town Band, or at least as many of its musicians as could fit on the stage, played a mix of light and classical music.

THey accompanied the carol singing which rounded off the performance.

"Our thanks go to all concerned in helping and we look forward to a repeat next year," added Mr Stemp.

THe concert is a well-established tradition in Bognor Regis staged by the Rotary club and is always well attended by hundreds of the town's senior citizens.

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TWO hours of Christmas fun were enjoyed by hundreds of Bognor Regis senior citizens at an annual concert.

More than 300 of the area's older residents were invited to join in the fun provided by Bognor Regis Rotary Club, pictured left.

THey were welcomed with sherry and mince pies thanks to the hosts at the Riverside Caravan Park.

Rotarian Peter Stemp said the show got off to an entertaining start and the tempo seldom flagged to the delight of the audience.

"Crucial to this was the dance troupe from the Arabesque School of Performing Arts in Chichester, which set the show off with a bang and raised the whole standard of the event.

"In a range of costumes, they sang and danced and gave a performance worthy of any professional adult team.

"THat was a hard act to follow but comedian Simon Sands, in his first year

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We have lift off!

Tim Peake exhibition

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Scrap plans for will be ineffective. group Chichester Members of the Green party councillor

BY RUTH SCAMMELL Moves on and Chris Grayling sexpost.co.uk who Sarah Sharp addressed ruth.scammell@sus MP Andrew Tyrie the and Chichester the city's Conservative have urged were attending last week.

CAMPAIGNERS to scrap government conference dinner transport secretary the A27 over fears it party plans to redevelop

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in to simply invest public expenditure at best 5 min government's plans improved journey times of at an estimated THey feel that the the traffic problems for through traffic to 41 months will not address delays on a regular 40 sec and up cost of up to £280m which cause severe the disruption." basis. by members of x " We THe letter, signed Continues on page Moves On, said: group Chichester and a waste of believe it is short-sighted

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support. Arun's PO19 8ET A produced overwhelming Quarry Lane, Chichester, that something cabinet backed the move on Monday.

Trade Centre, email: rob@southcoasthonda.co.uk He said: "I am horrified lack the agreed with the police onda.co.uk Unit 7, Chichester existing coverage of this importance seems to total of 257 people 01243 884144 causing www.southcoasth is based on the disperse those public North £1,000 attention to detail. being able to the alcohol outdated designated new homes in ago necessary of information is going to be behaviour within the for the HUNDREDS of about five years up anti-social or likely to cause it. Just nine "If this sort excluded from places order from of some 700 homes public domain, then Bersted have been measures. control area brought into the used at least." and 14 were unsure. before the new estate for latest crime-fighting maps should be take effect next were against housing development was built. confiscate alcohol fewer to date set to THe large Site Six space For the power to police will have area agreed and THe new order is the new public THis means the

by Arun District reasons, 250 people police will be outside heavily populated April if it is confirmed next month. Its the samedisagreed and 15 were unsure. designed to give powers in the facilities. protection order Turn page five yobs and excessive with its sports and community deputy Council's full council a lengthy public only 14 new powers to tackle Council's will follow which Bersted Parish Lainchbury, lives in adoption last summer drinking in public. the area in which Cllr David consultation THe map which shows with its penalties chairman, new homes in North Bersted. effect up to one of the the order will take notice or a fine of of a fixed penalty

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Thursday, December 22, 2016

College's carol concert is a hit

` Kind Post readers donate shoeboxes GENEROUS Post readers have helped those who are on the streets this Christmas.

THey donated 11 shoeboxes to the Big Warm Up Shoebox Appeal being run for the second year by Anthony Burdett.

Debbie Higgs, who is helping Anthony's appeal, collected the boxes packed with practical presents, from the papers' offices in London Road in Bognor Regis on Monday morning.

She said it was kind of readers to think of those who will be worse off than them next week.

"I think I've got another 40 boxes to take up today and Anthony will be able to put them to good use," she said.

Ewell resident Anthony, 31, spends his Sunday nights helping the homeless on London's streets.

He expects to hand out 2,000 boxes this year. THey will include essentials like hats, gloves, scarfs, socks, blankets and toiletries.

f One of last year's elaborate race entries

Hopes high for pram race

THOUSANDS of spectators are expected to line the streets of Pagham for the latest pram race.

THe Boxing Day spectacular will take place at 11am from Nyetimber Mill in Pagham Road.

Dozens of entrants will push prams, with 'babies' inside, around a circuit to THe Lamb pub.

THey vary from the serious finishers to those with elaborately decorated prams and costumes. All will stop to drink a pint of beer at pit stops at THe Bear, THe Lamb and THe Beach Cafe.

Tim Holland, the recently appointed vice-president of the race, said more than 60 entries took part to continue its popularity.

"It's a fun event for all the family to enjoy. Last year, we had around 6,000

spectators," he said.

"THe race has really become 'star studded' over the years and we have had spectacular entrants from The Wizard of Oz to Star Wars, but who will this year's star be?

"THanks to sponsors, entrants and spectators we've raised many, many thousands of pounds for local good causes over the years. In 2015, we were able to hand out more than ÂŁ15,000 to local charities and organisations with our Helping Others grants."

Anyone over 18 can enter the race on the day or online at www. paghampramrace.com for a ÂŁ10 donation.

THe race was started in 1946 by a group of demobbed servicemen. THe challenge was to drink a pint at all the village pubs and win a Christmas fruit cake.

SINGERS and musicians from Felpham Community College have provided a magical festive treat.

THe students took centre stage at the college's annual community carol concert at St Mary's Church last Wednesday.

THe church was filled to capacity with parents, staff, students and village residents and proved to be a memorable evening.

Mark Anstiss, the college's headteacher, said: "THe students and staff always put a huge amount of effort into this traditional festive celebration and it is a firm favourite in the college calendar.

"THe concert is a lovely way to end a busy term and showcases the range of musical talent we have at the college."

Audience participation was

encouraged and this helped to create a brilliant atmosphere.

It was a festive event enjoyed by everyone. Mince pies and mulled wine were served at the end of the service to add to the sense of occasion.

THere was a collection as the concert was closing in aid of Stonepillow, Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice and St Mary's Church.

Year 8 students at the college have taken part in an interactive cyber bullying workshop.

Singer and songwriter Rich Cottell, who has performed with pop stars THe Wanted and Olly Murs, presented the workshop as part of a tour. He delivered hard-hitting messages about cyber bullying, gaming, internet safety and social media in a fun and interactive way.

f College students entertain the congregation

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Thursday, December 22, 2016

` Plans for holiday caravans approved MORE tourists will be able to enjoy stays in Pagham.

Plans to add 22 static caravans to Church Farm Holiday Village in Church Road have been approved.

Bourne Leisure had asked Arun District Council to agree to the scheme to use just under a hectare of grassland linked with the site's golf course.

Arun planning officer Simon Davis said in his report the proposal was acceptable even though it adjoined the Pagham Harbour nature reserve with its range of protective measures.

"THe new caravans will be arranged in two shallow curves to the west of a strip of existing landscaping and, as such, have a less formal site layout than the existing parts of the park," he said.

"It is therefore considered that, although the proposal will impact on the landscape, the impact of this will only be relatively local and the proposal will not have any adverse impact on the character of the countryside," he stated.

THe RSPB, which manages the nature reserve, said it was happy with the mitigation measures to be put in place by Bourne Leisure to limit the caravans' impact.

Natural England also said the measures would enable dark-bellied brent geese to continue foraging in the area.

THe golf course's nine holes will be cut to eight by the plans. It was approved in 2000.

THe new caravans will take the site's total to 892 but the total is well within its approved number of 948.

News 9

Dementia friends in world trip to assist campaign

by Kevin Smith kevin.smith@sussexpost.co.uk 01243 908506 ext 11

f Dementia Action Alliance members in the festive spirit

A GLOBAL journey was enjoyed by those with dementia in Bognor Regis and Chichester.

THose involved with the area's Dementia Action Alliance experienced Around the World at Christmas instead of sitting through a formal meeting.

THey 'travelled' to different countries and found out how they celebrated the festive season.

Along the way, they enjoyed an Italian pasta quiz, food tasting from various nations and a Lapland sensory experience with their carers - and all at Dementia Support in Tangmere.

THe alliance is led by the Aldingbourne Trust's dementia champion, Martha Pusey. She said: "THe event was to encourage more people with dementia to be part of the alliance so that professionals are able to get their expert views on feedback.

"THe event was designed to enable people with dementia to experience a holiday without having to undergo the upheaval of going away.

"THe experience evoked memories for many who attended of past holidays and memories of fun times with family."

Martha recently won a West Sussex Excellence in Care Award and Arun

Business Training Award for the work she does with dementia.

THe members who are signed up to the alliance include Cameron James Solicitors, the Alzheimer's Society, Dementia Support and Crossroad Care.

Sussex Police are also part of the alliance and the group was updated

by Sergeant Pete Higgins. He is leading the force's missing person's dementia protocol.

He is a Dementia Friends' Champion and has been keenly training up the Bognor, Chichester and Worthing police staff to be Dementia Friends to enable them to have more of an understanding about dementia.

Pete has been working with Maisie Rudkin, of West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, to also launch Dementia Friends' sessions to firefighters around the county.

Martha added the event received some encouraging and positive responses. One person who attended told the alliance: "THanks to all involved in the brilliant Dementia Action Alliance Christmas extravaganza, really appreciate all the hard work that went into it."

THe alliance brings together health and social care professionals to connect and share best practice and to act to improve the lives of those with the condition.

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10 Ace

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Thursday, December 22, 2016

from

23rd December ‘16 MONSTER TRUCKS (PG)

WHY HIM? (12A)

ROGUE ONE: A STARWARS STORY (12A)

MOANA (PG)

MON: 1.45PM TUES-THURS: 10.45PM, 2.45PM

MON: 4.15PM TUES-THURS: 5.45PM, 8.30PM

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Page 5 Connaught Studio

FRI: 11.15PM, 2.45PM SAT: 10.45AM, 1.30PM MON: 11AM TUES-THURS: 10.45AM

FRI: 1PM, 4.30PM, 5.15PM, 8PM, 8.30PM SAT: 12.30PM, 4PM, 4.30PM MON: 12.30 PM, 4PM TUES-THURS: 1.15PM, 4.30PM, 7.45PM

PASSENGERS (12A)

BALLERINA (U)

Christmas at the Museum page 5

FRI: 2.15PM, 5.45PM, 8.45PM SAT: 1.45PM, 4.45PM MON: 1.30PM, 4.30PM TUES-THURS: 5.15PM, 8.15PM

FRI: 10.15PM, 12.15PM SAT: 10AM, 11AM MON: 11.15AM TUES-THURS: 10.45AM, 2.45PM

Plus What's On

Your FREE weekly entertainment guide

X

Fashion

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Weald and Downland Museum

Film

Reviews

X

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acecinema

Collateral Beauty We are all connected.

Music

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Theatre

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Events

Comedy

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Why Him?)

Monster Trucks )

Release date: 26 December Director: John Hamburg Starring: Bryan Cranston, James Franco, Zoey Deutch Genre: Comedy

Release date: 26 December Director: Chris Wedge Starring: Jane Levy, Lucas Till, Rob Lowe Genre: Action, Adventure

Over the holidays, Ned (Bryan Cranston), an overprotective but loving dad and his family visit his daughter at Stanford, where he meets his biggest nightmare: her well-meaning but socially awkward Silicon Valley billionaire boyfriend, Laird (James Franco).

A rivalry develops, and Ned's panic level goes through the roof when he finds himself lost in this glamorous high-tech world and learns that Laird is about to pop the question.

Looking for any way to get away from the life and town he was born into, Tripp, a high school senior, builds a Monster Truck from bits and pieces of scrapped cars. After an accident at a nearby oil-drilling site displaces a strange and subterranean creature with a taste and a talent for speed, Tripp may have just found the key to getting out of town and a most unlikely friend. Monster Trucks is an action-filled adventure for the whole family that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

f LAST W

f Why Him? f Collateral Beauty Collateral Beauty z Release date: 26 December Director: David Frankel Starring: Will Smith, Helen Mirren, Edward Norton Genre: Drama Will Smith stars as Howard Inlet, a grieving and troubled New York advertising executive who retreats from life after suffering a terrible tragedy. While his concerned friends try desperately to reconnect with him as he struggles to come to terms with the loss of

`"Will Smith his daughter, Howard seeks answers from the three key forces of nature. He begins writing letters to Love, Time, and Death. But these notes bring unexpected personal responses as the perennial forces of the universe take corporeal forms to speak to him directly.

Collateral Beauty co-stars Keira Knightley as Love, Jacob Latimore as Time, and Helen Mirren as Death, with the rest of the all-star cast completed by Edward Norton, Michael Peña, Kate Winslet, and Naomie Harris.

Directed by THe Devil Wears Prada’s David Frankel, this thought-provoking ensemble fantasy drama explores how these constants of the universe interlock in a life fully lived, and how even the deepest loss can reveal moments of meaning and beauty.

stars as Howard Inlet, a grieving and troubled New York advertising executive who retreats from life after suffering a terrible tragedy."

f Monster Trucks

postnewspapers.co.uk

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Puzzles 11

PostPuzzles f QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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f CODEWORD 3

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Letters may be used only once. You cannot use plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. THere is at least one 9-letter word to be found.

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f LAST WEEKS' SOLUTIONS

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Check out all the solutions next week

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SKIP SLIP SLAP SLAY SWAY AWAY

THIS is the 9 letter word:

IRREGULAR We hope you had lots of fun coming up with words in the 10 minutes allowed.

Can you solve our fiendishly tricky crossword?

Take your time, you may need to

12 1 Advertising Feature

postnewspapers.co.uk

Shane Richie & Jessie Wallace

star in Mayflower Theatre’s spectacular pantomime Robin Hood Sat 17 Dec 2016 - Sun 8 Jan 2017

22-26 Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GE E-mail: customerrelations@ mayflower.org.uk Tel: 023 8071 1811 Website: www.mayflower.org.uk ROBIN Hood starring Shane Richie & Jessie Wallace will be coming to Southampton this Christmas, in the South Coast’s biggest family pantomime.

Having established themselves as one of the nation’s favourite partnerships during their time playing Alfie and Kat in EastEnders, Shane & Jessie have won numerous awards and millions of fans for their portrayal of Walford’s muchloved couple. Robin Hood marks their first pantomime appearance together with Shane in the title role and Jessie his beautiful Maid Marion.

Shane’s numerous television credits include Oliver Twist, Skins, New Tricks, Minder, What We Did on Our Holidays but is best known for his role of Alfie Moon on BBC1’s longest-running soap, a part written especially for him. In addition to acting, Shane has also hosted a number of high-profile gameshows including the primetime lottery quiz Win Your Wish List and Decimate.

Most recently Shane starred in Making Dad’s Army for the BBC and Benidorm for ITV1. Shane and Jessie recently completed filming their own six-part drama series based on their EastEnders characters’ lives in Ireland which will be broadcast later this year.

On stage Shane has starred in a number of hugely successful productions including Danny Zuko in the West End production of Grease, which broke all box office records, Boogie Nights, which he co-wrote and co-produced on tour and in the West End and regularly stars in pantomime for Qdos Entertainment.

Shane & Jessie are currently completing their critically-acclaimed UK tour of Peter James’ The Perfect Murder.

For over 15 years Jessie Wallace has become a national treasure thanks to her performance as Kat Slater in the popular BBC soap EastEnders. Her other television credits include ITV’s The Bill and Wild at Heart and her critically acclaimed leading role in Miss Marie Lloyd - Queen of the Music Hall for BBC Four. In 2008 she also took part in the sixth series of Strictly Come Dancing. No

stranger to the stage, Jessie has appeared in the West End productions of Rent and Haunted as well as the 25th anniversary production of Stepping Out in the role of Sylvia. Most recently Jessie returned to the stage playing Lil in the Theatre Royal Stratford East’s musical production of Fings Ain’t Wot they Used T’be, directed

by Terry Johnson. Last year she made her pantomime debut starring as the Fairy Godmother in a critically acclaimed production of Cinderella at the White Rock Theatre, Hastings.

Michael Harrison, Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment’s Pantomimes division said “We are delighted to bring Shane and Jessie together on stage for this year’s Mayflower Theatre pantomime. Southampton audiences can look forward to an unmissable production packed full of action, adventure and comedy with plenty of glitz and glamour, this is pantomime at its best!”

Michael Ockwell, Mayflower Theatre Chief Executive added: “Pantomime is always an important highlight of our year at Mayflower Theatre and we are delighted to be bringing such a well-loved pairing in Shane and Jessie to lead our cast of Robin Hood. With their undeniable chemistry they will undoubtedly be the perfect Robin Hood and Maid Marion in what will be the ultimate panto to see on the South coast”.

Robin Hood will be staged by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s largest pantomime producer, and the company behind the Theatre’s previous record-breaking productions of Aladdin and Cinderella. Robin Hood features Mayflower Theatre’s hallmark of outstanding entertainment for theatregoers of all ages.

So grab your merry men and women, and get ready for a sheriff-busting, arrow-shooting, tights-wearing, hogroasting pantomime extravaganza!

Tickets for Robin Hood (Saturday 17 December 2016 – Sunday 8 January 2017) are on sale from Mayflower Theatre Box Office tel: 02380 711811 or online at mayflower.org.uk. Ovation Restaurant bookings: 02380 711833 For further information please contact Robin Hancox (Mayflower Theatre) 02380 711803 robin.hancox@mayflower.org.uk

Thurstay,December December 22, 2016 Thursday,

postnewspapers.co.uk

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Ace 13

Shows & Events YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON

To promote your event email Fiona Callingham at: entertainment@sussexpost.co.uk or phone: 01243 908506 The Muppets as you've never seen them before

The Muppet Christmas Carol December 23-24 Connaught Studio, Worthing 01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk AMONG an undeniable abundance of cinematic versions of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, this is often remembered as a stand-out adaptation, and Worthing THeatres are giving us the chance to see it once again on the big screen.

The Muppet Christmas Carol sees all our favourite Muppets shine as famous Dickensian characters in this comedymusical.

Kermit the frog stars as Bob Crachit, the struggling worker of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Michael Caine who is among other, human,

actors in the film.

Although Scrooge and his family are not played by Muppets, there are still plenty of puppets on-screen.

Muppet regulars such as Miss Piggy, the Great Gonzo, Rizzo the Rat, Beaker, Fozzie Bear and Robin the Frog all make an appearance.

Despite the comic performances and enchanting songs, this version of A Christmas Carol manages to retain the poignant message of the original story about appreciation and generosity that is sure to warm the heart of every audience member.

A real Christmas treat for the whole family, The Muppet Christmas Carol is playing at 10.15am on both December 23 and 24.

Tickets cost £2.50.

Christmas at the Museum December 26-27 Weald and Downland Museum office@wealddown.co.uk 01243 811348 www.wealddown.co.uk STEP back in time with the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum.

THis is the perfect time to visit the museum, with Christmas displays in abundance. Each historical house from the Tudor to Victorian period will be decorated in the style of Christmas from that time.

Learn about how our ancestors celebrated Christmas throughout the centuries.

One of the oldest houses on the site, the 15th century Bayleaf farmhouse, will play host to traditional greenery decorations.

THese decorations consist of huge ‘kissing boughs’ hanging from the rafters, made of holly and ivy.

In Tudor times the twelve days of Christmas that began on Christmas Day marked a period in which no work would be carried out. To symbolise this both the

The beautiful Chichester Cathedral

spinning wheel in the Bayleaf farmhouse and the plough in the Cowfold barn are bound with these holly and ivy decorations..

In contrast to this the Victorian families who would’ve inhabited the Whittaker’s cottages would have only had one day off from work. THerefore the celebrations here will be a lot more basic than in other buildings.

THe 17th century Poplar cottage is also a display of a more simplistic time. In fact, during 1647 Christmas was actually banned under the Puritan rule of Oliver Cromwell.

Come and discover what life would have been like for people at that time.

THere will also be traditional food and drink on offer at the museum. Enjoy a warm welcome in the medieval North Cray house where the team will be ready with spiced ale and apple juice, as well as biscuits and cheese straws.

THe museum is open both days from 10.30-4. Tickets are usual admission prices and range from £5-£13.

Cathedral Christmas Services December 24-25 Chichester Cathedral 01243 782595 www.chichestercathedral.org.uk

"Visit the cathedral this Christmas for a variety of enjoyable services."

"For something different, visit the Weald and Downland for Christmas."

A traditional Christmas feast

"Join the Muppets in their beloved retelling of the famous Christmas story."

IF you are interested in attending traditional church services this Christmas, where could be better than at the stunning Chichester Cathedral?

Enter into the festive spirit with the various Christmas services at the cathedral including carol and crib services.

Between December 19 and January 6 there is a nativity scene on display in the cathedral. Children are welcome to search for the three wise men before they make their long journey around the Cathedral to the crib.

THe Crib Service, at 4pm on Christmas Eve, is perfect for families and small children as it explores the story of the

nativity. Children are invited to dress up in their own costumes as angels, shepherds or wise men and during the service they will be involved in helping to create the crib.

Everyone is welcome (dressed-up or not) to this 40 minute service that will include favourite carols and the blessing of the crib.

THis is always an extremely popular event attracting as many as 500 people in the past.

Following this service is the Evensong at 5.30pm and the Midnight Eucharist at 11pm. On Christmas Day the cathedral is open again for three services: the Holy Communion at 8am, the Mattins at 10am and the Sung Eucharist at 11am. THe cathedral will then close until 5pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend any of these services that are sure to remind us all about why we celebrate Christmas.

14 Sport

postnewspapers.co.uk

PostSport ON the last week before the Christmas break, the Divisional Trebles knockouts took place at the Newtown Social Club.

Division 3 saw only six teams take part, with the final made up of Richard Pennells, Stuart Gray & Paul Bizzell (POW Galleon) and Dave Juniper, Martin Connelly & Lewis Kalli (QEII).

THe final saw the Galleon trio go first and take the lead with the consistent scores but struggle at the end of the leg with their doubles.

THe QEII were not far behind, but Juniper busted a 69 out shot. A few shots later and Bizzell hit double five with his first dart to take the first leg.

THe second leg saw an even start with Kalli getting the highest score of 85. THis gave the QEII a shot at the second leg which Connelly took with two darts.

Leg three saw some high-scoring from both sides and it all came down to the doubles. Both teams struggled to nail down the victory - but then Connelly stepped up, needing double five, and with one dart and his hands held high made the QEII trio Division 3 Trebles champions.

Division 2 saw eight teams take part, with Martin Grainger, Dave Coupland & Gary Harwood. (Royal Oak) making it to

the final to face off against Alex Norgett, Lewis Campling & Keelan Belcher (Newtown Amity).

THe final saw an 82 from Grainger, and 95 from Belcher, but a 110 from Harwood saw him miss double eight to take the first leg. Campling then stepped up needing 32 and hit the double 16 to take his team into the lead.

THe second leg saw Coupland hit 95, but the Newtown trio hit the bigger scores.

Norgett missed double four for the game, giving Belcher a chance. But after hitting single four with the first dart he decided to bust the score after seeing his opponents still on 208. Norgett stepped up and hit the double four, taking the win, and making himself, Campling & Belcher, pictured above, Division 2 Trebles champions.

Division 1 saw 11 teams take part, one more than last year.

One of the preliminary matches saw a shock with the Summer league champions, Richard Ragless, Buster Barton & Derrick Longhurst (Squash Club) get knocked out by team mates Terry Davison & Robert Bridges, and their partner Rick Cousins (Hunston Hares). But they succumbed to Micky Rowland, Lee Franklin & Dave Owens (POW 'Z') who faced Mark Walker, Nathan Warren & Gary Bryant (BRSA Wanderers), pictured below, in the final.

Franklin started with a ton, and Warren replied with 95, and his team continued their form. With both teams on a finish,

Bryant stepped up and hit treble 18 and double two to take the first leg.

THe second leg went down to the wire - and it was Warren who kept cool under pressure, needing two darts to take the double and the win in 20 darts, to take the Division 1 Trebles champions title for himself, Walker & Bryant.

Full results available on www.bognordarts.co.uk

Thursday, December 22, 2016

"No friendly festive cheer here" - Pagham are all fired up for Boxing Day derby clash BOXING Day is set to be a feisty festive affair as Pagham travel to neighbours Chichester City with more than local pride at stake.

THe Lions go into the match at Oaklands Park (11am) having stumbled of late, winning only one of their past five games in the SCFL Premier.

THe latest - a 3-2 home loss against Eastbourne United on Saturday - has seen Mark Bennett's side slip to fifth, 14 points behind runaway leaders Shoreham.

Chi meanwhile are flourishing, with last weekend's 3-2 win at Eastbourne Town lifting them above Pagham into third and extending an unbeaten league record which stretches back to the start of September.

Pagham chairman Tony Shea told the Post: "It will be very, very close. THere's a lot of rivalry between the two of us, it's the local derby that we always look forward to and it will be an interesting day.

"THey are a decent side - anyone getting to last 32 of the FA vase is doing something right but we need to go there and pick the points "We can't let Shoreham get too far ahead THey are not dropping any points at the moment but I do think they will at some stage of the season."

In SCFL Division One, Selsey will have to wait until December 27 to kick off their festive campaign, making the short trip to East Preston (3pm).

THe Blues have lost once in the past six but will face a tough test against an East Preston side that sits four places above them in fifth.

THey go into the match off a 2-2 home draw with Steyning Town.

Howard Low and Tom Groom struck in the first half to put the Blues in a good positon. But two second half goals, including one with just three minutes to play, saw the match end in a draw.

Division Two sees another local derby, with leaders Bosham making the short trip to play Sidlesham at the Recreation Ground (11am).

THe Robins are unbeaten this season, winning 14 of their 15 games so far - the latest a 2-0 win against Rustington.

But five points behind them in second are a rampant Sidlesham side, who go into the match off a fine 2-1 win in the Intermediate Cup last 16 against East Preston under 21s.

Daren Pearce's side know a win over their rivals will close the gap and put pressure on them into the second half of the season.

f Selsey push forward for a winner in the 2-2 draw against Steyning Town

Chi come up short in bid for three in a row CHICHESTER came up just short of making it three wins in a row in a bruising encounter with Guernsey at Oaklands Park.

THe Blues were unlucky not to come away with more than just a losing bonus point in the 18-25 defeat, never recovering from a slow start.

It leaves Rob Lawrence's side going into the Christmas break third bottom in National League 3 (London) knowing they will face a battle with four other clubs to avoid the drop.

Roger Gould, the club's press secretary, said: "Chichester have been much improved in their last three matches, taking 11 points from a possible 15.

"THey now face four more crunch games in January, two of them away. THey will have to dig deep but their commitment has been demonstrated."

Saturday's game kicked off with a minute's silence in memory of Chichester's past president and oldest club member Douglas Stroud.

When play did get underway the visitors made the stronger start - despite arriving late after delays coming into Gatwick.

Two early converted tries for the Islanders left

Chi up against it. And while winger Harry Seaman did cross just before the break after scooping up a Henry Anscombe grubber kick, the Blues went in at the half 17-11 down.

A serious injury to Don Farmer just after the break meant Chi had to play much of the second period with two forwards in their back line.

But they did not give in, despite Guernsey scoring a further try against the run of play.

Chichester surged back with a huge driving maul and passes to the right wing, leaving the defence overstretched. Matt Woodhouse scored in the corner and Taff Davies converted from the touchline to make it 18-22. .Despite plenty of pressure and a disallowed try for a forward pass, the Blues just could not break through the Islanders' ranks.

A penalty late on sealed the seven point win for Guernsey and left Chi wondering what more they could have done to win the game.

THe Blues will have the festive period off before returning to action on January 7 with a 270 mile round trip to fifth-placed Shelford.

Send your reports and pictures to us: sport@sussexpost.co.uk

postnewspapers.co.uk

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Sport 15

Nyecamp

am

news

By James Crane

f Bognor's defence will face a stern test against the high-flying Hawks of Havant & Waterlooville

Howell can't contain his excitement as the Rocks look to down Havant's Hawks

Next Game

Havant (H) december 26 | 3pm

BOGNOR boss Jamie Howell just can't wait to see Santa on his way and get down to business against Havant & Waterlooville on Boxing Day. The Rocks go into the traditional festive local derby second in the Ryman Premier, just one place and two points ahead of their Hampshire rivals.

A win in front of an expected bumper crowd at Nyewood Lane could lifted Bognor back to the top of the table.

And Howell just can't wait to see what his side can do against the visiting Hawks, who have spent big in a bid to lift them back into the Conference South.

Speaking to the Post, Howell said: "I'm excited more than anything.

"Anyone that finishes above Havant will win the league this year, no doubt about it.

"They are the team that is expected to win and I'm delighted that we are up there to challenge them.

"We are there on merit and have played well over the months up to Christmas and that's why we are where we are.

"It's going to be a really good game. If we play well then there's no reason why we can't do well. But we don't want to be disrespectful to them.

The Rocks go into the match on the back of a fine comeback win against Folkestone Invicta last week.

After no game for nearly two weeks, a depleted Bognor side fell behind after 20 minutes when Joe Taylor seized on a through ball His shot bounced off a sliding Rocks defender before flying over goalkeeper Dan Lincoln and into the net.

There were further problems when centre half Sami El-Abd went off at half time.

But, as they have done all season, the Rocks fought back fiercely and got the equaliser through Ollie Pearce.

The home side were reduced to ten men with 20 minutes to go.

Shortly after, James Fraser forced his way into the box and shot low into the bottom left corner,to give the Rocks all three points.

Howell said: "It was the type of game where we could have been two or three down at half time. But sometimes you get your best results when it doesn't stack up.

"We were a completely different team after the break and it shows the team spirit and commitment that's in the squad."

Howell is hopeful that El-Abd (dead leg), James Fraser (hamstring), Dan Beck and Gary Charman will be available for the Havant game. Dan Beck is also back, giving him options in midfield.

The only major doubt is Lorenzo Dolcetti (thigh) while Albion loanee Dylan Barnett is unavailable due to family commitments.

ow Senior Cup last eight for Bognor

BOGNOR cruised into the quarter final of the arry SeamanSussex Senior Cup with a 3-0 win over Ryman ooping up aSouth side Horsham. es went in at With one eye on the Boxing Day clash with Havant & Waterlooville, Rocks boss Jamie er the breakHowell made four changes to the side that cond periodstarted the 2-1 win against Folkestone on Saturday. nsey scoring But his charges convincingly dispatched the lower league opponents on Tuesday driving maulnight, thanks to goals from Ed Sanders, James the defenceCrane, and an Ashley Jones own goal. red in the Howell was pleased with the win, but also he touchlinepleased it allowed Gary Charman and Chad Field, who are both returning from injuries, to sallowed tryget some match practice. d not break He said: "We have got three difficult games coming up over the Christmas period and we oint win forneed to make sure we have players we can t more theytrust physically.

"Hand on heart, every season we try to win d off beforeevery competition we go into. Sometimes it's a 270 miledifficult to know which battles to fight but at the moment this is a good opportunity for the club."

The Rocks' reward is a trip to SCFL Premier leaders Shoreham. A win will put them in with a chance of a return to the American Express

the Seagulls.

Community Stadium for the final in May. If the Lions overcome Albion, they will The Rocks have done that twice in recent years, but on both occasions came up short have another home tie against Crowborough against Brighton and Hove Albion and Athletic in the next round.

Elsewhere, Eastbourne Borough, who Peacehaven respectively.

Meanwhile Pagham will have to wait until overcame Chichester City in the last 16, will the new year for their last 16 clash with play Worthing in a repeat of last year's final Brighton and Hove Albion's development while Whitehawk will travel to Crawley Town.

All quarter final ties will be played on or squad.

The game was planned for January 4 at before Wednesday, January 18.

Nyetimber Lane, but has been rescheduled for the following week (7.30pm) as the Albion have an under-23s Premier League game planned for the same date.

All at Pagham hope there will be a bumper crowd for the match, which could see some future Premier League f Bognor lost out to Eastbourne Borough in last year's SSC stars playing for

HELLO and welcome to my first column for the Bognor Regis Post.

I'm writing this a few days after our 2-1 win against Folkestone Invicta.

It turned out to be a good three points in the end.

We did OK for the first four or five minutes, but after that we seemed to really struggle to get a foothold in the game.

They played three at the back and five across the middle and our front three struggled to match up against them.

They also came at us a bit more than we'd prepared for.

Then they got a goal which was a bit of a lucky one, coming from a mistake at a throw in and then the shot rebounding off my foot over the keeper.

At half time Jamie [Howell] came in and just told us that we have nothing to lose and just told us to go for it.

Sami El-Abd, our centre half, had to go off injured so we had a re-jig, putting striker Jimmy Wild at the back, despite him never having played there before, and bringing on Jimmy Muitt up front.

We knew there was no pressure on us at all. We'd just lost our most experienced player and everyone thought 'let's just give it a go'.

To be honest I thought Muitt was the man of the match.

He was cantankerous if you like, never letting them settle.

He gave us a new lease of life and they didn't know what to do with him.

Once we'd got the equaliser, there was only be going to be one winner.

The Folkestone game was our first for nearly two weeks, but the break was a welcome one.

Thinking back to last year we just didn't have any time to mentally switch off with all the games in the FA Trophy and the FA Cup. So it's made a nice change this year to have some time off mid-season, particularly after a few disappointing result.

Against both Hendon and Tonbridge we were terrible and having a break handed to us allowed the side to regroup.

We knew people like Chad [Field] and Muitt were due

back and that [Dan] Beck was not too far away, so it just gave us chance to rest up both physically and mentally ahead of the Havant game on Boxing Day. We know everyone is saying it is a big game as it will be a top of the table clash with us in second and them in third. But for us it is the biggest game of the season.

They have a few of the lads such as Jason Prior and Alfie Rutherford who were with us last year.

And some of us, such as Chad, Harvey and myself are from the Portsmouth area, which makes it even more special.

If you look at the money they are spending compared to our playing budget and they should be winning four or five nil.

But we know if we keep it close, everyone will be looking to them and asking why they are not doing better.

In terms of playing against Jason, I've done it before when he was at Margate.

Obviously, I know him well and we get on.

But when the game kicks off, you don't really think about that, you just play the game.

The fact the match is on Boxing Day on front of 600 to 700 people at Nyewood makes a massive difference too.

In terms of Christmas, I'm looking forward to it. I celebrate the day itself with my other half's family.

It's a great occasion but with a big game the following day I have to stay away from having a few drinks. It's something you get used to.

Everyone I know has always been the same as we've all had to play football the next day.

We all know that any partying has to wait until Boxing Day evening.

With the prospect of a local derby in front of a big crowd with friends and family coming to watch you, that outweighs anything else to be honest.

A Merry Christmas to all you Rocks fans and fingers crossed for three points against Havant on Boxing Day. Craney

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