Sussex Living East January 2020

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K EE PICPY FREASEA CO PL U P

January 2020

JULIA DONALDSON

GRUFFALO STEYNING & COMMUNITY

SEASONAL RECIPE

BRIGHT & BOLD MARMALADE WELLNESS

CONSCIOUS BREATHING

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Inside...

Cover Stories 8

Julia Donaldson

17

46

54

Homes & Gardens

Talks about life in Steyning, and The Gruffalo!

8

Julia Donaldson

Huge new home and garden section

Simply Breathe

Take a breath with conscious breathing

Seasonal Recipe

Bright and bold marmalade

COVER ARTWORK HSIAO-MEI LIN

Features 14

32

42

50

56

60

62

Fine Furnishing

New owners, same amazing sofas

Dream Kitchens

The heart of every home

Green Resolutions Go green for 2020

Jump for Joy!

A young trampolinist dreams of the Olympics

Seasonal Bereavement

Warm words of advice from St Peter & St James

Care Home vs Home Care Understanding your options

Divorce Explained

Make an informed choice

36

Blooming Times

32

Dream Kitchens

Editor’s Comment Happy New Year! A fresh start for 2020 with wellness, conscious breathing, a huge new homes and gardens section and some great new features to take us through the year. And of course enjoy our interview with Julia Donaldson (and The Gruffalo!)

50 Jump for Joy!

Sara Whatley ASSISTANT EDITOR

Don’t forget, if you miss the latest issue of Sussex Living you can read it all online! Just visit www.sussexliving.com

6XXSUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

Jan20Contents SLE.indd 6

Tel: 01825 212131

Email: hello@sussexliving.com

www.sussexliving.com

/sussexliving

@sussexliving

19/12/2019 12:00

54

18

Marmalade

On The Home Front

Regulars 13

36

40

44

52 58 64 68

40

It’s a Dog’s Life

If You Ask Me...

A new opinion column from Flo Whitaker

Blooming Times

Houseplant happy this January

It’s a Dog’s Life

Keeping warm by the fire

Wellbeing

Helping you feel your best all year

Spotlight Events Puzzle Page Diary Dates Money Matters

Classifieds 69 Local Business Directory 74 Contributors List

42

Green Resolutions

46

Tel: 01825 212131

Jan20Contents SLE.indd 7

Email: hello@sussexliving.com

Conscious Breathing

www.sussexliving.com

/sussexliving

Tel: 01825 212131 hello@sussexliving.com www.sussexliving.com @sussexliving

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING XX7

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PERSONALITY

Julia Donaldson is a household name most of us know and love, yet this renowned author resides here in Sussex, in historic Steyning. Tim Saunders caught up with her for a chat after taking his family to one of her live performances

ALL PHOTOGRAHY: STEVE ULLATHORNE

A goodRead J

ulia Donaldson is very much associated with Steyning, the historic and rural market town in the Horsham district of West Sussex. Its notable residents have included Academy Award winning actor Sir Laurence Olivier and more recently Olympic gold medal winner Sally Gunnell; both drawn by its old world charm. Irish poet WB Yeats also lived here for a time with his mistress.

And of course there is another acclaimed inhabitant, an award winning world renowned children’s author.

Since 2014 Julia Donaldson CBE has made her home here with her husband Malcolm, a retired consultant paediatrician. The Queen awarded

Julia with a CBE in her 2019 Birthday Honours for services to literature.

Prince William presented Julia with the honour at Buckingham Palace in May. Extremely down to earth and approachable, Julia is hugely supportive of the local community, she is

In celebration of The Gruffalo’s anniversary, The Royal Mint launched a commemorative coin

involved in a local reading group.

Signed editions of all her books are available through the local bookshop, which is one of many independent retailers in the town. Julia also visits schools within a 20 mile radius of Steyning.

As patron of the Horsham District Year of Culture 2019, Julia helped to raise the profile of the area by highlighting its culture and heritage.

She likes to get involved in local life although admits that “being a bit deaf” does prevent her from going to the theatre because she can’t always hear.

Eating out in local restaurants with

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friends is a favourite pastime.

One sign of Julia’s support for Steyning is her purchase of the town’s Post Office. “The reason I am doing this is because I want to save it from closure and want to be able to post my letters and parcels in the town,” she says during a book signing after one of her live performances of The Gruffalo, The Witch and The Warthog. “We really want to be here for the community and to continue to support the High Street with all its wonderful independent shops and businesses.”

Julia’s enthusiasm for her local High Street, thriving local community and the beautiful downland scenery is clearly obvious.

Last year was the 20th anniversary since The Gruffalo was first published and it was particularly busy for Julia, who has now written more than 200 books. But it is The Gruffalo that sets the benchmark. So far it has sold over 13.5m copies and been translated into 84 languages.

The former children’s laureate has been the UK’s bestselling author in four consecutive years during the past decade.

It was when one of her songs, A Squash and a Squeeze was turned into a book in 1993 that her career took off as a children’s author. “Before that I just wrote songs for children’s television.”

Julia enjoys performing and performs

popular stage-shows in theatres and at festivals, often with her sister Mary and talented guitar-playing husband Malcolm.

Earlier this year, in celebration of The Gruffalo’s anniversary, The Royal Mint launched a commemorative coin.

Available in different finishes including Gold Proof, Silver Proof and Brilliant

We love going for walks on the Downs and especially Cissbury Ring Uncirculated, the coin is expected to be highly collectable with a limited edition presentation of some formats.

“I can’t believe it has been 20 years since The Gruffalo was first published,” admits Julia. “In that time, he’s been brought to life on stage and screen, featured in nature trails, library cards

and book tokens and turned into a soft toy; and now he’s got his own 50p coin.”

Illustrator Axel Scheffler, adds, “When I first envisaged him, over 20 years ago, I never anticipated that my artwork would be used on a coin.

The Gruffalo was born of an AngloGerman creative collaboration and it’s amazing to see how his universal appeal continues to connect with families across the world.”

The Gruffalo joins the ranks of other celebrated popular children’s characters that have appeared on coins in recent times including the sell-out Beatrix Potter character collection, Paddington, the friendly Peruvian bear and The Snowman.

Nicola Howell, consumer director at The Royal Mint says that the commemorative coin is a great way of recognising that The Gruffalo has become one of the most famous children’s characters in the world.

The celebrations haven’t stopped there; in October Royal Mail launched a set of commemorative stamps of Julia’s beloved creation.

When she isn’t writing or performing, for the past 50 years she has enjoyed fungi hunting. “Malcolm introduced me to it,” she says. “It’s been a very wet summer here so good for it

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Julia laments the demise of book reading on public transport and cannot see the joy of reading a book on a small screen. The illustrations in a children’s book are like their first introduction to art and a wonderful thing to behold, she says. She is saddened at how some parents seem to focus their attentions on social media instead of their children.

You won’t find her on celebrity television programmes even though she has been invited, this year.” And when “because I don’t want The Queen awarded they do find edible anyone to discover Julia with a CBE in her fungi they enjoy going my ignorance about home and cooking most things”.

2019 Birthday Honours them.

Her latest creation for services to literature is The “We also love Smeds and The going for walks on the Smoos, a book that has Downs and especially Cissbury Ring, seen her once again collaborate with the Site of Special Scientific Interest, illustrator Axel Scheffler; “It’s a glorious north of Worthing.” love story about alien folk.”

She adds that living at the foot of Julia and Axel’s most recent the South Downs inspires her to go for adaption was The Snail and the Whale a walk everyday. about a snail who hitches a lift on the The couple relocated to West tail of a whale. It was a highlight of Sussex after living in Glasgow for 25 BBC One’s recent Christmas schedule. years and have two sons. One lives One thing is sure, regardless of in Broughty Ferry, Dundee while the Snails, Whales, Gruffalo’s, and walking other is in the Cotswolds. They have on the glorious Downs, Julia’s literary retained a flat in Edinburgh and have legacy and love of Steyning is sure to seven grandchildren, who Julia enjoys continue for a long time to come. l reading to. www.juliadonaldson.co.uk

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IN HER NEW OPINION COLUMN, FLO WHITAKER IS MORE PARTY POOPER THAN PARTY POPPER AS SHE TAKES NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TO TASK

As Old Father Time pins up his 2020 Wall Planner of Destiny, sighs and pours himself another tonic wine, we so-called intelligent humans start another round of that absurd ritual, otherwise known as New Year’s Resolutions. Is there anything dafter? An annual farrago of forlorn hope over expectation, resulting in guaranteed failure and low self-esteem. Last year, did you successfully complete the marathon that was ‘Dry January’, with no alcohol passing your lips until February 1st? No. Did you visit your grandma more often? No. Did you successfully reduce your biscuit consumption by 50%? Of course not.

Did you remember that gym membership isn’t just for Christmas - you’re supposed to go the whole year round? No, no and no again, (to paraphrase the Iron Lady, herself no stranger to a wee dram.)

If you ask me, all New Year traditions are ridiculous. December 31st is just another date, kids. Who wants to be struck in the eye with a party popper at midnight, then snogged by a tartan-clad stranger who got a DNA testing kit for Christmas, discovered he’s 2% Scottish and has become an instant expert on the works of Rabbie Burns? On Millennium Eve, I was tucked up in bed by 9pm with an improving book and a mug of cocoa. I must have nodded off because around midnight I was woken by my neighbour’s re-enactment of the Battle of the Somme. We were picking plastic firework components out of the flower beds until Easter.

Bah! Happy blimmin’ New Year!

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 13

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

FURNISHINGS Fine Furnishings Sussex Ltd in Lindfield has turned upholstery into an art form. Hanna Prince visited head upholsterer and new owner David Gorringe to find out more about his work

I

n the workshop beneath Fine Furnishings’ Lindfield showroom, a masterpiece is under construction. There’s something fascinating about seeing a handcrafted sofa take shape beneath your eyes, each staple applied to the elegant beech frame with deliberate care.

The mastermind behind these carefully crafted designs is David Gorringe, head upholsterer at Fine Furnishings for 25 years. In October, after more than two decades of working at Fine Furnishings, David took over the business along with his wife Clare.

In a market flooded by mass-produced furniture, he and his small team of experienced craftsman are bucking the trend by creating bespoke pieces to customer specifications.

“If it’s a new sofa and or chair you are after then it is our bespoke service of fine furniture we can help you with,” says David. “We have a selection of designs in our showroom that are custom made to your requirements and needs. Offering you more choice than a typical sofa store, you’ll have the luxury of choosing the sofa designed the way you want – firmness, size and fabrics are down to you.”

25 YEARS OF CRAFTSMANSHIP After taking over the ownership of Fine Furnishings in his 25th year with the

business, David is uniquely placed to advise on everything from the design of a new sofa to the reupholstery of a tired one. He and his team are on hand from the moment a customer enters the showroom to offer guidance on fabric, design and even how the finished piece will get through your door.

Behind every bespoke Fine Furnishings sofa is a wealth of

Behind every bespoke Fine Furnishings sofa is a wealth of knowledge and design expertise knowledge and design expertise.

Between them, the team of four have over 60 years of upholstery experience.

They’ve created everything from campervan and boat interiors to church pews – even luxury dog sofas.

Each handmade piece is, of course, completely bespoke.

“We design our furniture, making them truly exclusive,” explains David. “We manufacture them on the premises, which keep our costs down, but most importantly we can make you a sofa or chair to size at no extra cost.”

The design of any piece in the range can be altered, whether that’s by raising the height, reducing the depth, opting for an alternative style of leg or simply changing the cushion. “Tell us your requirements,” as David says, “and we’ll do the rest.”

SERVICE AND QUALITY The personalised service offered at Fine Furnishings doesn’t end with a showroom consultation. “We offer a free service where we’ll come to the house, make sure the sofa fits and advise the customer on whether it will work with the design and colour scheme of the room,” says David. “We also offer a complete delivery service.”

In the past, he’s been asked to recommend fabrics that will withstand boisterous dogs, rampaging kids and baby sick. “Our experience means that we can advise on every aspect of sofa design, down to those small but really important details,” he adds.

Unlike fast fashion brands, Fine Furnishings’ emphasis is on locally

14 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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made, long-lasting pieces based on sustainable materials. The frames are traditionally crafted in Lancing from English beech and customers can choose from a selection of recyclable fabrics.

Quality and design expertise also translate to durability. David and his team are frequently asked to reupholster Fine Furnishings sofas that are still going strong after more than 15 years. “The fabric, the frame and every other element of our sofas are built to withstand the test of time,” he adds.

BEYOND SOFAS It isn’t just Fine Furnishings sofas that are built on principles of quality and sustainability. The showroom also stocks Somnus beds by Harrison and Spinks – another British family business – which utilises hemp strands in its designs and uses the leftovers from the hemp crop to provide green heat for its on-site hotel.

Like Fine Furnishings sofas, Somnus beds are the last word in bespoke luxury. Customers can specify everything from the colour of the

headboard to the overall size of the bed. There’s even the option to order a mattress that is firm on one side and soft on the other.

Somnus is one of an elite selection of brands that Fine Furnishings recommends.

“If you’re looking to redesign your whole house and don’t know where to start, we can help,” David explains.

“From curtains, carpets and rugs to furniture repair, we have companies we know and trust and can recommend.”

in the heart of Lindfield, or call us to arrange a home visit where we will happily discuss your requirements.”

Customers visiting the Lindfield showroom are guaranteed to receive a warm welcome from the new owners as well as the benefit of expert advice.

With their two daughters offering a helping hand during holidays and a new puppy to greet visitors, David and Clare have already turned Fine Furnishings into a business with family – not just quality – at its heart. l

RESTORED TO PERFECTION On top of designing beautiful bespoke furniture, Fine Furnishings also offer an expert re-upholstery and restoration service. All work is carried out on the premises at Lindfield, where customers are welcome to pop in and appreciate the quality craftsmanship first hand.

“At our workshop and showroom, we re-upholster any sofa, chair or footstool, large or small, antique or modern, using fabrics from an extensive range,” says David. “For a free, no obligation, re-upholstery estimate simply visit our showroom here

Fine Furnishings Unit 5, Lindfield Enterprise Park, Lewes Road, Lindfield, West Sussex, RH16 2LX 01444 482011 info@finesofas.co.uk finesofas.co.uk

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 15

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HOME FRONT

There are lush views into the tropical garden from the drawing room. Against a backdrop of a large tree fern and grasses is a leather recliner and an elephant ‘coffee table’, from Singapore.

The black anglepoise lamp was also purchased in Singapore where the family used to live

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EAST MEETS WEST

Exotic artefacts from the East combine harmoniously with the cutting edge design of the West in Barbara and Roland Sands’ contemporary home January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 19

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HOME TRUTHS PURCHASED: Autumn 2009 THE PROPERTY: Huf Haus built in Spring 2009 ROOMS: Open plan drawing room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, office; 4 bedrooms, all en suite, plus 2 further bathrooms, cinema/games room

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The stunning exterior of the Sands’ home has been named Har Ki Pauri, after a place in India which means ‘footprint of God.’ The original owners spared no expense when planning the garden, spending a staggering £260,000 on plants, trees and landscaping

W hen Barbara Sand first set eyes on her gleaming steel, timber and glass prefabricated house she experienced goosebumps. She and her husband Roland had been doing the rounds of estate agents to no avail, then suddenly there it was, the house of their dreams, in the ideal location close to their children’s schools and some beautiful green open spaces.

To the Sands’ relief the house appeared just in the nick of time. “We’d been living in rental properties for 12 years, initially because we didn’t know how long we’d

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 21

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The view through the glass front door to the entrance hall sets the scene for the interior of the house. All the furniture and ornaments here are from Indonesia and Korea and Thailand. The white orchid on the carved desk is from Covent Garden Market, a favourite haunt of Barbara’s

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Fortunately it was love at first sight as soon as the couple, originally from Germany, walked through the front door. “I was immediately struck by the atmosphere of serenity in the house,” says Barbara. She discovered that the former occupants had called in the services of a Feng Shui expert during the design stage to orient the space, enabling a positive energy to circulate throughout the house which is devoid of obstacles like walls or doors in the ‘wrong places’ to interrupt this flow.

The Sands had also long been fans of the frame house design ethic. “We appreciate

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Email: info@gapsolutions.co.uk STUDIO PROOF January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING

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the strong clean lines and structural elements of its minimal design. Plus, we love the emphasis on glass, for the open plan continuity of one living area into another. Because the expansive glass allows you to see the ever changing moods of daylight, every hour provides a different view.”

It is the garden which is one of the ‘wow’ factors with the house. Built on the side of a hill, the area with its lush bamboo, exotic grasses and silver birch trees set the scene as you step up to the front door and, once inside, greets you from every window on the ground floor.

There is a separate side entrance and a walkway, hugged by tall trees and greenery. Here, Barbara’s daughter has

A ROOM WITH A VIEW

The drawing room flows into the garden. Like the house, the garden adheres to Feng Shui principles. The elevation and copious amount of trees creates a woodland-like vista with height, which according to the Chinese philosophical system represents ‘a mountain behind the house’ signifying future prosperity. From a practical point of view it also means that the house isn’t overlooked offering complete privacy. At the furthest point in the garden is a seated Buddha and white walls which lend a contemporary sculptural element.

FAVOURITE ROOM

“My favourite place in the whole house is sitting on the sofa in the open plan drawing room, looking through to the garden.

Because of the floor to ceiling glass you feel that the garden is part of the room.”

*

24 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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Barbara’s favourite feature in the master bedroom is a custom-built wooden shoe rack, tucked behind the bed.

Concealed from view at the front, walk behind the bed and all Barbara and Roland’s shoes are neatly displayed for easy access. Below the open shoe racks are more compartments, hidden from view.

Most of the furniture in the master bedroom was sourced by the Sands’ when they lived abroad. The black metal bed and matching bedside cabinets were bought in Singapore while the white embroidered linen was bought in Germany. The black mirrored throw is from India.

It was love at first sight as soon as the couple walked through the front door her spacious bedroom and en suite spa bathroom, there is also a high tech cinema and games room, a utility room and a guest bathroom.

Walk up the staircase to the first floor and you step into a stunning open plan living space with a fabulous drawing room area, and because of the elevation of the property, a magnificent garden beyond, with wrap around balcony.

“But it’s the kitchen which really impressed me,” says Barbara. “I’m not very tall and wall cupboards are usually a challenge, but not here. Everything has been designed within easy reach and there’s plenty of storage.”

In addition to their furniture, paintings and artefacts bought in the Far East, the Sands’ also invested

26 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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DECORATING TIP

Less is more. “Apart from a feature wall of violet in Laura’s room, we’ve kept to a distinctive monochrome palette, which means white walls throughout,” says Barbara. “This gives the perfect canvas for artworks and backdrop for furniture while maximising the light.” The designers recommend a re-paint every three years, to ensure the walls remain in pristine condition.

*

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 27

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in a number of ultra-contemporary pieces to complete the furnishings in their home. “The contrast works really well,” says Barbara. “Because the drawing room area is so spacious for example, we wanted a really large, modern L-shaped sofa.” Juxtaposing modern furniture and simple, clean lines with more decorative pieces from the East gives the perfect proportion and balance.

In the four years since they moved in, Barbara and Roland have only made two significant changes to their home. “We decided early on that we wanted to build a garage on the site of the original carport. For this we worked with the designers. The second addition was a gallery in our son’s bedroom.

Here there is a vaulted ceiling, so my son asked us to install an upstairs level and a custom made bed, freeing up a spacious area below for his desk, games and computer.”

Having made these relatively minor changes, the Sands’ agree there is nothing else they need to alter. As Barbara says, “for us this is close to perfect. Having moved so many times over the years we are relieved to have put down roots at last.” l Text and Styling: Narratives/Tricia Welch Photography: Narratives/Robert Sanderson

The en suite bathroom to the master bedroom features a double sink and shower. The sink has just one leg, giving the impression it is floating. Clutter is cut to a minimum as all toiletries are stored in cupboards behind the mirrors.

WANTING TO PROMOTE IN EAST SUSSEX?

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To be included and to promote your business call us now on 01825 212131 or email hello@sussexliving.com 28 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 29

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Company Promotion

A Roaring Success for 10 Years!

Sussex Fireplace Gallery, is the largest Fireplace, Fire & Stove Specialist in East Sussex, and is celebrating its 10th Birthday this January by offering its first ever sale, with up to 10% discount on the majority of items in store!

‘We are a company that holds ‘Open fires, and gas baskets itself to a high moral standard inside of open fireplaces are and consequently, we offer typically between 20-35% efficient, genuine pricing all year round, with the majority of the heat avoiding the now seemingly they generate being lost up your commonplace practice of chimney when in use. In fact, even overpricing and then offering when they are not in use, your an apparent discount,’ advised residual heat off the radiators is Stuart Hunt, Managing Director. disappearing up there too!’

‘For us, we felt that as a Originally founded in 2010 with celebration of completing our just four family members involved, first 10 years as Sussex Fireplace the company now has a full-time For us, we felt that as a celebration Gallery, now was the time payroll of fifteen, including an of completing our first 10 years to offer a real sale on almost experienced fitting team that have everything in store!’ carried out in excess of 5,000 as Sussex Fireplace Gallery, now ‘These sale prices are a installations between them. With was the time to offer a real sale on genuine one off and will only all six members of the family almost everything in store! be valid on orders placed in now working within it, clients January 2020. The offer cannot can get the peace of mind of be extended as our agreements buying from an established brand, with these leading brands, as their thank you to us for the whilst knowing that in the unlikely event they should have last 10 years, is only valid for this short period.’ any concerns throughout the process, a member of the ‘Although we have dealt with many of the same brands ownership team is just a phone call away. throughout our existence, 10 years in this industry has Having taken over Grate Fireplaces in Portslade in seen a lot of changes, in terms of the popular designs 2015, the group now has premises on the outskirts of both but more so the types of fires that clients are looking for,’ Eastbourne and Brighton, allowing it to comfortably cover explains Danny Hunt, Technical and Installation Director. from Bognor Regis to Rye, and as far north as Crawley.

‘In more recent years, the demand has risen sharply for Each showroom is over 2,000sq ft, with more than 100 higher efficiency, glass fronted appliances which can displays in Gas, Electric and Woodburning so you can significantly reduce draught and consequently heat loss be sure to find the feature you are looking for at Sussex up your chimney.’

Fireplace Gallery.

“

”

Sussex Fireplace Gallery 01323 488848 Grate Fireplaces 01273 416679 Sussex Fireplace Jan20.indd 30

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Sussex Fireplace Jan20.indd 31

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SECTION SUBJECT HOMES

S A

B

T

Dream KITCHENS

•

•

The heart of the home, the place to be at any party and the route to a happy tummy. This month we bring some design inspiration to the table for your new year kitchen

•

I

t’s a question that I don’t think I’ll ever find the will be happy to conduct a free survey and offer advice to answer to but it doesn’t stop me trying and here guide you in the right direction. it is; why does everyone insist on congregating in First things first – layout and shape. This can be the the kitchen? Regardless of space, décor and even biggest headache when starting out on your redesign desperate pleas from the chef to ‘go and sit in the other room journey, but get this wrong, and you may regret it for a very until it’s ready’, the kitchen remains the long time. There are three main shapes heart of all our homes and the place where to consider: the G shape, L shape and U memories are made.

There are three main shapes shape all of which can fit around any space.

What style to go for? From country Most importantly remember the working to consider: the G shape, house chic to modern and edgy, your triangle: there needs to be a small distance L shape and U shape kitchen must complement the overall feel between the three most vital appliances in and character of your home and most your kitchen, the sink, the fridge and the importantly reflect your personality and your needs from cooker and the sink should take central position. The last thing your kitchen. To help you make the right decision, speak to you want to do is lug a boiling pan of water across to the other friends and family who know your home and ask them for side of the room to drain the potatoes, whilst having to dodge their thoughts, failing that a professional kitchen company chairs, table and the dog bed.

32 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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•

w

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Once the shape and cabinets have been chosen and you know what’s going where, worktops can add a whole new dimension to your new kitchen and yes, there are so many varieties out there it’s hard to know where to start. Hardwood is nature’s finest and most solid material and is perfect for the country chic look but may not suit all styles – if you’re going for a modern and minimalist approach you may want to look elsewhere, like granite. Granite oozes elegance and beauty, lasts a lifetime but as with all luxury products comes with a luxury price tag. A slightly more affordable option is to update your existing worktops by putting granite over the top. Last but by no means least is the laminate option, built around a chipboard core, laminate worktops are extremely versatile and can reflect almost any natural design and perhaps more importantly these days, it’s great value for money.

It’s a minefield when it comes to flooring and again, there’s so many things to consider. For those of you that remember, cast your mind back to the swinging 1960s when the introduction of vinyl and linoleum made their everlasting mark on our kitchen floors. Both of these surfaces offer enormous variation, durability and they are relatively inexpensive. With kids traipsing in from the garden and dogs running across the room, lino and vinyl remain the top choice for easy clean and affordable kitchen floors.

It’s hard to match the quality and durability of stone and tiled flooring. However, there are drawbacks which I must highlight… for me, there’s nothing worse than having cold feet so unless you can afford under floor heating, make a note to invest in some heavy duty fluffy slippers. Also, and apologies for stating the obvious, tile and stone is hard and anything that you may be unfortunate enough to drop, will break into a thousand pieces, plus any spillages will make the surface slippery. Saying all this, stone and tile is a desired finish and hugely popular.

It’s very easy to picture your ideal kitchen with shiny surfaces, glistening floors and top of the range appliances, unknowingly though you may have forgotten the crucial storage areas. Fear not, there are so many cunning and creative ways to ensure that your kitchen has all the space you need. Shelving, whether it’s wall hung or free standing, is seriously overlooked and yet there is no better place to keep your favourite wedding decanters, cookery books or vintage vases. If you want to add a bit of colour to your kitchen, look into buying some chic containers for your spices or even a cake stand or cookery book holder, which just gives that extra finishing touch, yet serves a purpose too.

It’s clear that our kitchens will always be the heart of our homes so maybe this is the year to give yours that long overdue makeover… l

34 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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K ITCHENS FOR REAL COOKS

Caraco

It’s time for the kitchen you’ve always wanted

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stoves, fires & accessories

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 35

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BLOOMING TIMES

Were you gifted a houseplant at Christmas? Wondering what to do with it now?

Flo Whitaker explains…

Houseplant H

ippeastrum (amaryllis) are extraordinary plants. Their huge bulbs can develop flowering spikes 60 cms tall within six weeks. They are often sold as a kit, complete with flowerpot and compost.

If you’ve been gifted a kit, ensure the bulb is shallow-planted, with the top half sitting above the compost. Pack plenty of compost around the base for anchorage. The flowering spike(s) will need support, so push a cane into the soil at the time of planting to avoid damaging emerging roots. Position in a sunny, warm spot.

Keep the compost moist and rotate the pot daily to ensure the stems grow straight. If a plastic pot has been used, sit it inside a ceramic planter to give extra weight to the base, (hippeastrums are notorious for toppling over!)

Schlumbergera is known as the Christmas Cactus because it obligingly flowers in midwinter. The word ‘cactus’ conjures thoughts of arid deserts, but Schlumbergera belongs to an unusual group of plants known as Forest Cacti that grow in the tree canopy of damp, semi-tropical woodlands. In a home setting, Schlumbergera enjoys a temperate, humid environment in light shade - the centre of a room is a good position, away from hot radiators and over-bright windowsills.

Poinsettias are sensitive plants.

What usually kills them off is cold air

HAPPY

and over watering.

They require a draught-free location and a light hand with the watering can - the compost should be barely damp. Their vivid flowers aren’t flowers at all, but are bracts, (modified leaves.) Poinsettias can be persuaded to ‘flower’ the following year, so long as you have the patience of a saint and a pitch black cupboard to artificially mimic the equatorial hours of day/night. It’s complicated.

Potted bulbs can be planted outdoors when they have finished

Dry, centrally heated air is the greatest enemy of houseplants

greatest enemy of houseplants but you can help provide the moister conditions they enjoy. Plants breathe through leaf pores, (stomata) a process which creates micro-condensation. Grouping several plants together will increase humidity in the immediate vicinity. Sitting pots on gravel-filled saucers also helps.

Every few days, dribble water into the saucers to keep the gravel damp. The water will evaporate, creating a moist atmosphere around the plants. As a general rule, houseplants should be fed when in active growth and re-potted in springtime. They will appreciate a summer holiday in a sheltered spot in the garden. Many houseplants can be successfully kept going for years, but when it comes to a poinsettia, throw it away and buy another one next December. Trust me. l

flowering. After experiencing indoor conditions, they may take a year or two to settle into a normal flowering routine, (especially hyacinths) so be patient! Bulbs are tough characters and most will survive the indoor-to-outdoor transition.

Dry, centrally heated air is the

36 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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NORFOLK

Wymondham

SUFFOLK Ipswich

Bishops Stortford ESSEX Chipping Ongar HERTS

Coming soon developments

LONDON Gravesend Maidstone Ifield WEST SUSSEX

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To find a Bovis Homes development near you, please visit:

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Big 105 offer!

Reserve a Bovis Home between 6th and 31st January 2020 and you could receive one of these two exclusive offers:

£105 reservation fee!

105% Home Exchange!

• Reserve your new home for £105*

We are offering you 105% of the market value†† for your home in part exchange

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• No estate agents fees • No frustrating property chains • You get to stay in your old property until your new Bovis Home is ready for you to move in What’s more we are giving you £1,500 towards your legal fees.

Photograph shows a typical Bovis Homes interior and may contain optional upgrades available at additional price. *£105 reservation fee is non-refundable. **Flooring will be specified by Bovis Homes and must be selected from the Bovis Homes Standard range. No cash equivalent. †Entertainment package can not be exchanged for a cash alternative Bovis Homes reserve the right to withdraw the incentive at any time and without warning. The Entertainment package will be delivered to the home owner after completion. ††Home Exchange scheme is subject to independent valuations, survey and contract on your existing property and is subject to criteria, which include the property you are selling is worth no more than 75% of the value of the new Bovis Home you wish to purchase. Home Exchange market value figures are based on reports from 2 independent local NAEA registered agents for a selling period of 8 weeks. Offers are available on selected plots only reserved by 31st January 2020 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or purchase assistance scheme. Terms and conditions apply. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT

Jan20BloomingTimes SLE.indd 39

19/12/2019 09/12/2019 12:10 14:59

PETS

This year Teddy the Border Terrier will mostly be snoozing in front of the fire, and definitely not making any resolutions, so he tells Helen Stockton, the pen behind the paw

It’s a Dog’s Life N

ow that all the hubbub over Christmas has disappeared, like the baubles, until next December, we are emerging, blinking into a new year. I use the term emerging loosely. With the weather we’ve been enduring this winter, I’m spending most of my time snuggled up cosily in my bed, with as little emerging as possible. I wonder if we Border Terriers could develop a hibernating habit and skip through to Easter. Just a thought.

Anyway, with the dawn of a squeaky-clean year, we see the annual ritual of ‘Them Indoors’ setting good intentions to eat and drink less, exercise more and be kinder and more productive people. I don’t go in for any of that resolution nonsense personally.

They have an unfortunate tendency to negatively impact on life’s enjoyment.

‘Her Indoors’ seems to agree, as she occasionally references a quotation from a chap called Frank Rand, that “Anything in life that is any fun is either immoral, illegal, or fattening.” We dogs have a different view. Our moral code is negotiable with biscuits, ill-egal is a

sick bird, and fattening is an aspiration constantly thwarted by the combined attentions of ‘Her Indoors’ and my Vet who keeps a beady eye on the scales.

The delight of shaking, throwing, chewing, unstuffing and de-squeaking toys is something that people really ought to try Anyway, to be honest, I don’t agree.

I can think of lots of pleasures in my life that are none of those things. Lying in front of the wood burner on a cold winter’s evening is, frankly, top of my list, although you could argue that this has environmental implications that should mitigate the pleasure for a thinking fur. Then there is the process of ‘deading’ a toy. After Christmas, my stock has been replenished, so the delight of shaking, throwing, chewing, unstuffing, de-squeaking and otherwise repurposing even the most robust of toys is something that people

really ought to try. It’s a good way of downloading stress.

Then there’s the delight of chasing, whether it be a ball, a frisbee or some of the garden’s little furries like squirrels and bunnies. People clearly enjoy chasing after balls as there are plenty of sports that are based on that principle. And what is a discus if not a heavy frisbee, although you don’t see any musclebound athletes running down the field to retrieve them. Perhaps that’s a development they could consider.

Chasing furries is a bit contentious, even for us dogs, although it’s not generally illegal, but people are probably best confining their efforts to inanimate objects if they want to keep out of trouble.

There are also delights such as snoozing in a patch of sunshine, having a tummy tickle or a good ear rub, barking at other animals on the TV and then checking round the back to make sure they aren’t hiding there.

These are all innocent past times which don’t come into any of the banned categories and which I wouldn’t give up anyway. So have a happy, resolution free New Year; I intend to. l

40 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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NEW YEAR

Hanna Prince suggests some green New Year’s resolutions that will really make a difference to your life – and to the planet

TAKE A STAYCATION Fly long haul just once and you’re generating more carbon emissions than the average person in dozens of countries around the world produces in a whole year.

Instead, why not spend 2020 exploring some of Britain’s beauty spots? You might just be surprised by how much fun you can have on your doorstep.

REWILD YOUR GARDEN UK wildlife populations have plummeted in the past few decades, but you can give local species a helping hand by making your garden critter-friendly. Ditch the pesticides, sow wildflowers, plant a native hedge or create a ‘wild area’ in a secluded corner of your patch.

BUY LOCAL That doesn’t just go for food.

Politicians often boast of Britain’s relatively modest domestic carbon footprint, but our addiction to imported goods means that we’re now the biggest net importer of CO2 emissions per capita in the G7 group of wealthy nations [Office for National Statistics]. Buying British boosts local businesses and cuts product miles at the same time.

The average Brit consumes a plastic credit card in micro-plastics each week

SHOP FOR CHARITY Ultimately, it’s our appetite for ‘stuff’ that’s wreaking havoc on the planet. The fashion industry alone is responsible for around 8 percent of global emissions, but the charity Wrap estimates that £140 million worth of clothing goes to landfill each year in the UK. Break the cycle by sourcing what you can from charity shops, swishing events and second hand, and try not to indulge in throwaway fast fashion.

GET INVOLVED Individual choices can make a small difference to the environment, particularly at a local level, but only government action will trigger change at the scale needed to combat the climate crisis.

Making your voice heard – whether through writing to your MP, or supporting an environmental charity – is arguably the most effective thing you can do to help the planet. l

Go green, stay green

VARY YOUR DIET Meat and dairy consumption is responsible for a catalogue of environmental woes, from deforestation of the Amazon to habitat loss around the world. It also leads to the emission of methane – a greenhouse gas 84 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. Start

small by going vegan for just one day per week, or take a vegetarian cooking course for a fresh take on a lower meat diet.

GO LIGHT ON PLASTIC Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing issues of our time. A lorry load quantity of plastic is dumped in the oceans every minute and the average Brit consumes the equivalent of a plastic credit card in microplastics each week [WWF report]. Single-use plastics are the biggest problem, so go easy on disposable

cutlery, cups, bottles, straws and cling film.

ON YOUR BIKE Swapping your car for a bike is a winwin move – slash your carbon footprint and take on a New Year fitness challenge at the same time. If biking all the time is not practical for you think about lift sharing, using public transport and biking and walking when you can. Also, the popularity of hybrid and electric cars will continue to rise, so consider jumping on the (eco-friendly) bandwagon.

42 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

KNOW YOUR

WELLBEING In our new wellbeing series, Lisa de Silva will take us on a monthly journey looking at different aspects of this topic.

We start with a general look at what wellbeing is

M

ost experts agree that feel about our lives. positive wellbeing is Our wellbeing series will run fundamental to building throughout 2020, with the aim of a full and happy life. providing readers with tools and But what exactly is wellbeing? Defined strategies for getting the most from as ‘the state of being comfortable, life, by focusing on the following areas: healthy or happy,’ wellbeing can mean Emotional wellbeing will look at different things to different people but managing stress, developing resilience is best understood as how we feel about and building self-esteem; Physical ourselves and how satisfied we are with wellbeing will explore improving our our relationships, work and our lives in health through good nutrition and general. exercise; Social In an ideal world wellbeing will we would all enjoy Wellbeing is best understood tackle relationships, robust and healthy friendships as how we feel about levels of wellbeing and building a across all areas of our ourselves, our relationships, support network; lives but this can often work and our lives in general Workplace prove challenging. wellbeing When asked how we are, most of us will look at how we can balance will instinctively say we are ‘fine,’ even our interests, values and sense of when we are feeling overwhelmed, sad purpose in a professional setting and or stressed. The problems start when we Environmental and Societal tell ourselves we feel ‘fine’ about things wellbeing will consider our ability in our lives when this is not actually the to participate in and contribute to a case. thriving local community, culture and Wellbeing is influenced by both environment. internal factors such as levels of selfThe most common way in which esteem, feelings of stress and anxiety we can compromise our wellbeing is to and having a sense of purpose, as well as pretend everything is ‘fine’ even when external factors such as income levels, life we’re feeling bad about ourselves and opportunities and where we live. There our lives. So, it’s important to be honest are also different types of wellbeing and about our feelings if we want to set about over the coming months we will explore making improvements. l these, along with ways we can enhance Next month, ways to improve your and improve the level of satisfaction we emotional wellbeing.

As an introductory exercise to help you assess your current levels of wellbeing, start by considering the following questions.

1 HOW OFTEN DO I FEEL… a. Confident? b. Relaxed? c. Useful? d. Energised? e. Connected to others? f. Stressed? g. Anxious? h. Optimistic for the future? i. Loved?

2 HOW SATISFIED DO I FEEL WITH… a. b. c. d. e. f.

My family life?

My home life?

My health?

My work life?

My social network?

My engagement and contribution to the wider community?

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

SIMPLY

BREATHE

Can something as simple as breathing really improve our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing? Lisa de Silva discovers how conscious breathing is taking the world by storm

O

ur lives on this planet start and stop with a breath. While we can survive lack of water for several days and lack of food for several weeks, we cannot survive without breathing for more than a few minutes. Each day we breathe more than 23,000 times. It is an instinctive and automatic action – but are we breathing properly?

While Eastern spiritual practises such as Buddhism, yoga and martial arts have long extolled the benefits of conscious breathing, it is only in more recent years that the West is waking up to the fact that controlled breathing techniques can greatly improve our mental and physical health. Always alert to a new wellness movement, Los Angeles has been hosting breath-work circles and breathing retreats for years and now this trend has reached the UK.

Today, conscious breathing is fast becoming the new mindfulness, but if you don’t fancy signing up to a breathing workshop we’ve compiled this handy guide to help you understand the process of conscious breathing and how it can increase your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.

THE SCIENCE OF BREATH Breathing supplies the body with a steady and constant supply of oxygen. Inhaled air is processed, warmed and filtered in the nose by tiny hairs called cilia. The air then enters the lungs which pump oxygen into the bloodstream, nourishing our cells and vital organs. Exhaled air removes the waste product of this process, which is carbon dioxide.

When we breathe properly the oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange during respiration maintains a balanced pH in the blood keeping us in excellent health. Problems occur when we don’t fully inhale. This makes oxygen scarce, so the blood has to flow faster leading to problems such as high blood pressure. What’s more, if we don’t fully exhale low levels of carbon dioxide are left in the blood causing blood pH levels to rise which can cause cognitive impairment, seizures, dizziness and fainting.

THE BENEFITS OF CONSCIOUS BREATHING In 1956, Dr Arthur C Guyton claimed that all chronic pain, disease and mental stress is caused by a lack of oxygen in his Textbook of Medical Physiolog y. The cure is simple – increasing the amount of oxygen to our bodies through deep and conscious breathing.

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• inhibits the release of stress hormones • reduces anxiety • i ncreases the ability to manage chronic pain WHAT CAN PREVENT CONSCIOUS BREATHING? Despite all the amazing benefits of conscious breathing it is estimated that 95% of us breathe in a way that is ‘biomechanically unsound.’ This is due to sedentary lifestyles, the demands of 24/7 digital connectivity and high levels of stress. When stressed we tend to take short and shallow chest breaths.

The air does not reach the lower lungs meaning the body’s relaxation cannot be accessed. This is known as ‘vertical’ breathing and is associated with our flight/fight response.

Unfortunately, today’s stressful lifestyles can keep us locked in this state on a long-term basis and this type of restricted breathing can lead to health problems such as anxiety, high blood pressure and heart disease. The remedy is to practise deep and conscious breathing which will shut off the type of shallow stressful breathing that is so damaging to our wellbeing.

Deep breathing delivers proper oxygenation and can get the air down into the lower lungs

Deep breathing delivers proper oxygenation and can get the air down into the lower lungs where the nerve receptors associated with calming the body and mind are located.

This activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing blood pressure and soothing the mind. So, it’s no surprise that in challenging situations the advice is to, “Take a deep breath and calm down.”

Other benefits of deep and conscious breathing include: • lower risk of heart disease and strokes • promotes better digestion • improves general immunity • boosts energy levels • improves sleep • increases the ability to burn fat

HOW TO PRACTISE CONSCIOUS BREATHING Conscious breathing is a safe and powerful way to infuse the body with oxygen and energy to recharge a depleted system.

Practise the technique just 20 minutes a day to reduce your levels of stress and anxiety, enhance feelings of wellbeing and benefit from the healing power of breath. l

The techniques below will turn off the flight/fight response, relax your body and calm your mind 1 Stand or sit up tall to enable deep breaths.

2 I nhale through the nose and exhale through either the nose or mouth.

3B reathe slowly and deeply engaging your diaphragm so your lower lungs fill with air and your belly rises.

4F ocus on the air moving through the nostrils and filling your body with nourishing oxygen.

5A s you exhale imagine you are expelling all the toxins and negative energy from your body.

6T ry to concentrate on the breath and stay in the present moment.

7 E nergy Breathing – to boost energy inhale to a count of five, hold for a count of seven and exhale for a count of nine.

8S quare Breathing – to calm the mind and slow the heart rate inhale to a count of four, hold for a count of four, exhale for a count of four and hold for a count of four.

9A lternate Nostril Breathing – to focus the mind breathe normally for three breaths, then close one nostril with a finger and inhale/exhale and then swap to the other nostril for around eight breaths.

10 Calm Breathing – to induce calm during a panic attack breathe in to a count of seven, do not hold and breathe out to a count of nine.

48 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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SPORT

Jumping for joy When Robert Veitch was twelve, he was a red head like Alex Oakley, but that’s where the similarity ends. Alex is currently making giant leaps in his embryonic trampolining career, while Robert puts pen to paper to tell us about it

S

ky High Trampoline Gymnastics Academy is based in a former warehouse in Uckfield and is devoted to trampolining and gymnastics. Inside, I sat down with high-flying Alex Oakley, his mum Helen and coach Gail Andrews.

Senior coach Gail, a former competitive trampolinist, has been involved since the beginning in 2009.

“We have around 100 competitive members, 500 recreational members, and 20 coaches.”

Sky High Trampoline Gymnastics Academy is a charity affiliated to the national governing body, British Gymnastics. There are 10 trampolines, a foam pit, DMT runway, tumbling track and a fully sprung gymnastics floor. The centre offers a mix of open sessions and classes for anyone looking to put a little bounce into their lives.

Sky High members come from across East and West Sussex.

Alex has been with Sky High for four years, “I started gymnastics aged three and was told trampolining would improve my gymnastics. I started on a garden trampoline, but preferred it and so I gave up gymnastics for trampoline and DMT.” Trampoline routines utilise 10 moves. Competitors need to avoid horizontal displacement and attain a constantly high altitude.

Double Mini Trampoline (DMT) uses a conjoined pair of small trampolines, the ‘mount’ and ‘spotter’ at the end of a runway. Competitors use

It’s not beyond a leap of faith to anticipate a medal in the Paris Olympics both before dismounting. All routines have tariffs of difficulty, like diving.

Alex attends training camps at the Lilleshall National Sports and Conferencing Centre in Shropshire, where Max Whitlock and Louis Smith trained. “I’ve met Commonwealth Champion Nile Wilson, he’s funny, he’s a YouTuber. I’ve also met Bryony Page who won trampoline silver at the Rio

Olympics of 2016.

It’s inspiring to meet them, it makes the Olympics feel possible to me.”

If it sounds glamorous, it’s not, as Helen, pointed out “Alex’s school have been really supportive, he trains 4-5 times a week, totalling 12-15 hours.

There’s no glamour and no funding either; it’s the bank of mum and dad.”

Alex chipped in, “My job at home is to do all the washing. It’s how I earn my keep, I’m in charge of the linen basket.”

Alex won two bronze medals on the trampoline last summer in Prague, and attended a training camp in Portugal.

In December, Alex flew to Tokyo to represent Team GB in the World Age Group Championships, in the 2020 Olympic gymnasium. “I competed in DMT and came 7th overall in my age group. There were over 40 competitors, from all five Continents. I’d never flown that far. I was nervous and excited about going, and I like sushi now,” he chuckled.

Jumping ahead, Alex is on the England trampoline squad for 2020, so… it’s not beyond a leap of faith to anticipate a medal in the Paris Olympics of 2024. l Sky High Trampoline Gymnastics Academy 21 Bell Lane, Uckfield TN22 1QL www.funabounds.co.uk

50 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

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EVENTS

SPOTLIGHT EVENTS Wedding Open Day at Horsted Place Country House Hotel Saturday 18th January, 10am to 4pm It’s that time of year when newly engaged couples begin searching for the perfect venue to host their wedding celebrations.

The beautiful Horsted Place Country House Hotel is holding a special Sat wedding viewing day on Saturday 18 Jan

18th January when the public rooms will be set up exclusively for a wedding, so prospective brides and grooms will have the opportunity to see how this gorgeous house and garden could become their very own “home from home” for their wedding day. A number of the hotel’s regular wedding suppliers will be in attendance as well as the Registrar.

To make an appointment for a private tour and to talk about your plans with Liz and Aimee please call 01825 750581.

Have a chat over a glass of Prosecco, enjoy looking at the bedrooms and wandering around the wonderful garden and grounds to see all the fantastic photo opportunities.

We look forward to meeting you. www.horstedplace.co.uk

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical Tuesday 11th to Saturday 15th February at The Congress Theatre, Eastbourne Beautiful – The Carole King Musical, the Olivier award-winning West End and Broadway show is coming to Eastbourne!

Long before she was Carole King, the chart-topping music legend, she was an ordinary girl with an extraordinary talent.

Along the way, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation, with countless classics

such as (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Take Good Care of My Baby, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, It Might as Well Rain Until September, Up on the Roof, and The Locomotion.

Witness the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom.

Booking details at www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk Box Office 01323 412000

Tue 11 to Sat 15 Feb

Courses start in Jan

Remember Mindfulness this New Year Courses starting in January Debbie Horney of Remember Mindfulness teaches mindfulness in Uckfield, Ringmer, Hassocks, Hurstpierpoint and Lewes with Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) courses starting in January 2020.

Mindfulness is a very simple form of meditation that can help manage chronic pain/illness, it can reduce stress, anxiety, depression and addictive behaviour to name but a few. Overall scientific evidence has demonstrated that it can improve wellbeing and physical health.

Full details of the 8-week course sessions are available on the website and if you are not sure whether this course is for you there is a FREE orientation session.

Booking essential as places are limited via: www.remembermindfulness.co.uk For details call 07904 982 579 or email debbie@remembermindfulness.co.uk

Snowdrop Walks at Hever Castle From Saturday 8th February Visitors will have the chance to see 80,000 snowdrops throughout the grounds from beside the outer moat, meandering along Sunday Walk and drifting into Church Walk.

They will be encouraged to put on their wellies, hats and scarves and explore the woodland walks and enjoy the sight of a host of snowdrops in bloom close to the famous Castle and childhood home of Anne Boleyn.

Head Gardener Neil Miller says: “We have been collecting snowdrops at Hever for the last decade. We have some interesting and unusual cultivars in the Winter Garden and tens of thousands of the more common varieties planted in drifts through the garden and woodland.” www.hevercastle.co.uk

52 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

From Sat 8 Feb

MON 17 – SAT 22 FEB 2020 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk 01323 412000

THE GREAT BRITISH COMEDY Horsted Place

Country House Hotel

WEDDING OPEN DAY Saturday 18th January 2020 10.30 am - 4.00 pm A perfect opportunity to … … see the house set up for a wedding … meet our experienced friendly team … chat to some of our regular wedding suppliers and the Registrar

Book Your Private Tour and join us for a glass of Prosecco

Call Liz or Aimee on

Tel : 01825 750581 Lewes Road, Little Horsted, Uckfield TN22 5TS

on the A26, 10 minutes from Lewes, 15 minutes from Crowborough

email : events@horstedplace.co.uk www.horstedplace.co.uk

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 53

FOOD & DRINK

Seville Orange MARMALADE

INGREDIENTS 900g Seville Oranges 2.3 litres of water 1 lemon, juiced 1.8kg granulated sugar

Seville and Malaga oranges come into the shops after Christmas and are around for 4-5 weeks, and these bitter oranges are traditionally used for marmalade. If you don’t have time to make it immediately, you can always freeze the whole fruit until you have time

METHOD Wash the fruit, cut in half and squeeze out the juice and reserve.

Scrape the pith out with a spoon and tie in a piece of muslin along with the pips.

1

MAKES APPROX

3kg

Slice the peel finely or coarsely, 2 depending on how you like your marmalade. Put the peel, orange and lemon juice, bag of pips and water into a non-reactive bowl or saucepan overnight.

Next day, bring everything to the 3 boil and simmer gently for about 2 hours until the peel is really soft and the liquid is reduced by half.

Squeeze all the liquid from the 4 bag of pips and remove it. This is high in pectin and will help set

the marmalade. The peel must be absolutely soft before the sugar is added, otherwise it will become hard and no amount of boiling will soften it.

Warm the sugar for 10 minutes in 5 the oven, then add it to the pan stirring until it has all dissolved.

Increase the heat and bring to a 6 full rolling boil rapidly until setting point is reached, 5-10 minutes approx.

Test for a set, either with a sugar 7 thermometer (it should register 220F), or with a saucer.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECIPE BY FIONA KENNEDY/NARRATIVES

54 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

Put a little marmalade on a cold saucer and cool for a few minutes. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done.

Allow marmalade to sit in the 8 saucepan for 15 minutes before bottling to prevent the peel from floating.

Pot into hot sterilised jars. Cover 9 immediately and store in a cool dry dark place.

For Whiskey Marmalade – Simply add 6 tablespoons of whiskey to the cooking marmalade just before potting.

B I S H O P S B U TC H E R S the top end of Uckfeld – the nal butchers at only one A traditio h quality, local, seasonal pro g i h n i s t s i l a ci e p S . n duce. w o t in

The Cooper’s Arms, Crowborough

“DARK & DELICIOUS” 2020 11th Annual Winter Ales Festival Friday 24th- Sunday 26th January 2020

Open all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Hot food available 12 Cask Ales from as far away as the Orkney Islands For more details find us on Facebook or Twitter @coopersarmscrow The Coopers Arms, Coopers Lane, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 1SN Tel: 01892 654796

214 High Street, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 1RE

TEL: 01825 762820

“THE HOUSE OF ALE REPUTE”

The Dorset Arms Withyham East Sussex TN7 4BL 01892 770278 enquiries@dorset-arms.co.uk www.dorset-arms.co.uk The Earl De La Warr and family welcomes you to The Dorset Arms, part of the Buckhurst Estate. A traditional village pub offering an excellent dining experience, with locally-sourced produce, a summer garden and B&B accommodation.

Traditional ales and large wine cellar along with a variety of premium gins available.

CROSS IN HAND HEATHFIELD

FREE FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE

ARLINGTON

Food served lunch and evening - Home Cooked Food - Freehouse - New Menu including - Real Ales Lunchtime Light Bites 01323 870590 www.yewtree-inn.co.uk

Perfect place to visit before or after your country walk

TASTE OF AMERICA THE BEST E OF THE RIO GRANDE D I S S I H T

NEW MENU - SUNDAY ROAST

12 noon to 5pm on Sundays - Please Book

Special Menu Offers

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings

LIVE MUSIC MOST SATURDAYS Cross in Hand, Heathfield TN21 0SN 01435 865 449 Open: Mon - Thur 12-11pm, Fri-Sat 12-12pm, Sun 12-10.30pm

Book your place with Want to shout about your new season menu? l Got events planned for the summer, autumn or christmas?

15% off our lunchtime specials Monday to Friday

l

Our design service is included in the price of your booking, Don’t miss out! Call us now on 01825 212131

Kids Menu for junior Cowboys and Cowgirls A22, Eastbourne Rd, Halland 01825 840456

www.buffalobills-halland.co.uk January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 55

COMMUNITY

Living with bereavement is hard, but at this time of year, or on birthdays and anniversaries, the sense of loss can be even more acute. Here, the expert team at local charity, St Peter & St James Hospice, share their advice on coping during these times if you are missing somebody who has died

COPING WITH LOSS DURING

Special Occasions TALK OPENLY Be honest with those around you about how you’re feeling; is there is anything practical they can do to help you?

Communicating openly about your wishes or how you are feeling will help others to understand your decisions and support you better.

BE PATIENT WITH YOURSELF Special occasions can cause mixed emotions. For some people, they evoke fond and happy memories, while for others they can cause feelings of sadness, regret, anger or guilt. You may move from one feeling to the next.

Grief is not a linear process; try to remember all of these responses are normal.

MARK THE OCCASION IN A WAY THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU The idea of celebrating may comfort you, or you might find this daunting. You may not feel like celebrating at all. It can help to spend some time trying to work out which arrangements will best suit your needs.

If you decide to mark the day, you could honour traditions you shared with the person who has died, or do something ritualistic that helps you feel close to that person, such as lighting a candle, visiting somewhere you made happy memories, or writing them a letter. You may find it comforting to take part in spiritual practices, or community events.

56 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

Everyone’s experience of grief is unique – there is no normal BE SENSITIVE TO OTHERS During times of heightened emotion, conflict or resentment can arise in families or between people who are grieving the same person. Everyone’s experience of grief is unique – there is no ‘normal’ - and your good and bad days or wishes for special occasions may not align with others. Try to be understanding; regardless of other people, you can still honour your relationship with the person who has died.

DO SOMETHING KIND FOR OTHER PEOPLE Even if you’re not feeling your best, you still have something to offer the world and may find it comforting to help others or brighten someone else’s day.

Treat someone to a cuppa, spend time volunteering, or give to charity.

KEEP TO REGULAR PATTERNS OF BASIC SELF-CARE If you have celebrations coming up or are approaching an anniversary relevant to your loved one, you could find your routine is disrupted. Keep to regular patterns of sleeping and eating, ensuring your basic needs are met. Activities such as a nature walk, meeting a friend, meditating or engaging in a hobby are all helpful in boosting your wellbeing. l

COMMUNITY

RICHARD GREEN FUNERAL SERVICE The only truly independent, family owned and run

Funeral Directors & Memorial Masons in Lewes & Uckfield We understand that funerals can be a prickly subject but are happy to help with any questions you may have

170 High Street Lewes BN7 1YE 01273 488121 (24hrs) lewes@rgreenfs.co.uk

125 High Street Uckfield TN22 1RN 01825 760601 (24hrs) uckfield@rgreenfs.co.uk

Haine & Son Funeral Directors

Because every life is unique Eastbourne 01323 727 801 | Polegate 01323 489 127 Hailsham 01323 840 049 | Battle 01424 236 000 www.cpjfield.co.uk

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 57

PUZZLE PAGE SUDOKU

A simple process of logic is all that it takes to solve each puzzle in this game. Put the numbers 1 to 9 in each vertical column and each horizontal line. Each number must appear only once in each column and line and in each of the 3x3 boxes in the grid.

2

5

5

3 6

2

7

4 8

9

CLUES DOWN

1. Meekest (8) 8. Donkey’s bray (3-3) 9. You (arch.) (4) 10. Tint (3) 11. Wooden hammer (6) 12. Totally loyal (4,4) 15. Aim for (6) 16. Cruelty (6) 20. Film theatre (6) 24. Mouth secretion (6) 27. Retaliation (8) 28. Bravery (6) 29. Atmosphere (3) 30. Incite (4) 31. Dove (6) 32. Abide (8)

2. Wedding attendants (6) 3. Asian sultanate (6) 4. Breathe out (6) 5. Topics (6) 6. Shouted (6) 7. Stroke (6) 12. Body powder (4) 13. On top of (2,2) 14. Lip (4) 17. Seaweed jelly (4) 18. Tall flower (4) 19. Repast (4) 21. Slanting script (6) 22. Tactical missile (6) 23. Downright (6) 24. Coil (6) 25. Dawdle (6) 26. Empty (6)

3

4

5

6

10 3

17

18

12

21

22

23

24

25

27

31 32

58 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

1

21

23

2

17

18

7

18

15

17

18

15

13

18

9

7

5

5

11

10 18

16

24

19 8

9

10

17

9

9

14

18

15

22

18

10

26

5

18

5

20

7

16

10

7

10

10

5

16

13 26

16

17 17

21

6

5

17

19

7

4

19 21

26

10

1

18

13

13 7

23

19 10

22 17

8

9 2

21

19

3

4 17

12

14

16

15

7 17

18

19

6 21

4 10

21

17

26

9 4

26

19

18

15 5

18

15

4 2

25

10

4

4

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

28 29

17

21

7 20

4

19

26 16

9

9

14

15

2

Each number in the grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off.

Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

12

11 13

7

CROSS CODE

19

10

12

2

11

5

7

8 9

11

1

CLUES ACROSS

2

10 2

2

6

11

2

4 8

QUICK CROSSWORD

1

4

3

7

7

Place a different arithmetical sign (add, subtract, multiply, divide) in each circle so that the total of each line across and down is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

4

9 3 1

8

6

EQUALISER

30

1

2

3

4

14

15

16

17

M

5

6

7

8

9

18

19

20

21

22

U

10

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12

13

23

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25

26

L

Pre-paid funeral plans Free bereavement centre 24 hour service

UCKFIELD 01825 764125 65 High Street, TN22 1AP funeralcare.co.uk

A Crematorium for Wealden A modern compassionate approach to celebrate the life of your loved one. Generous service times with a ceremony hall that will seat 120 and parking for over 150 cars.

Families that wish to scatter their loved one’s ashes or purchase a memorial are welcomed even if they were cremated elsewhere.

We are happy to accommodate small intimate services and unattended direct cremations.



Wealden Crematorium, Horam Road, Horam, East Sussex TN21 0FX @ crematorium@wealden.gov.uk  www.wealdencrematorium.co.uk  01323 443400

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 59

CARE

HOME CARE VS CARE HOME

If it’s time to start thinking about care needs for yourself or a loved one, home care or care home is the big question.

Lisa de Silva tells us more

T

he recognition that additional care and support is needed can be a difficult time for many families.

Despite this there are choices when it comes to choosing between home care and residential care. Which option you choose depends on individual preference and needs.

To help those facing this decision we’ve considered some of the advantages and disadvantages of both options to help you plan for care needs both short and long term.

PRACTICAL AND EMOTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS If extra support is becoming an issue, start by asking the local council to carry out an assessment of your care needs.

Do you need help with day to day tasks or more specialist nursing care? Once you know the practical issues that need to be addressed, think about the emotional issues involved. Do you enjoy retaining a sense of independence or do you often feel lonely?

ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES OF HOME CARE Many people prefer to stay living in their own home and there are a range of support services available to facilitate this. Regular visits from

60 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

carers can help with personal care, medication, shopping and preparing meals. Alternatively, for those with more extensive needs a live-in carer can be the solution. Other services include meals on wheels, monitored personal alarms, specialist household equipment and adaptations, along with sociable day centre visits.

Which option you choose depends on individual preference and needs

Staying in your own home with all your things around you in a familiar neighbourhood can be a great comfort. You retain full control over the care and support you receive and can change them if they are no longer suitable. The care is often more personal and can work out more cost effective than a care home.

But home care is only really suitable for those with low to mid-level care needs and can be lonely if you have no friends or family nearby. What’s more, you may not like care workers coming into your home and despite alarm monitoring, you may still be a risk from a fall or sudden illness.

ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES OF CARE HOMES There are two types of care home – those where staff help with personal care and those providing registered nursing care. Most care homes allow couples to live together and some have facilities designed for older people with dementia.

The major advantage of a care home is that extensive or complex needs are dealt with by round-theclock staff. Residents do not need to worry about chores and household bills, have company when required, enjoy visits from friends and family and can participate in organised activities.

The downside is the cost and many residents have to sell their home to pay for care. Also, all your belongings have to fit into one room and residents can feel like they’ve lost most or all of their independence. l

THE EXPERIENCED DEMENTIA CARE PROVIDER At Seaford Care we recognise the needs of the elderly and a residents wellbeing is our biggest priority.

We pride ourselves in helping them to maintain their dignity, privacy and respect in all aspects of daily life. t Full Time residential Dementia care t Beautiful secure landscaped garden THE EXPERIENCED DEMENTIA CARE PROVIDERS t Tailored Day Care packages available t Use of the companies wheelchair to suit individual needs accessible At Seaford Care we recognise the needs of the elderly and a residents mini bus for day outings wellbeing is our biggest priority. We pride ourselves in helping them to t Respite Care maintain their dignity, privacy and respect in all aspects of daily life.

PLEASE CALL YOUR DESIRED LOCATION TO

Time Residential secure • Full • Beautiful REQUIREMENTS Dementia CareDISCUSS INDIVIDUAL landscaped garden Day Care call your • Tailored • Please Packages available to suit desired location to

•

individual needs Respite Care

discuss individual requirements.

Blatchington Court Retirement Home 13 ST PETERS ROAD, SEAFORD, EAST SUSSEX BN25 2HS TEL: 01323 896939 WWW.SEAFORDCARE.COM

Blatchington Court 13 St Peters Road Seaford Seaford Head 107 Steyne Road Seaford We buy used scooters. We are always Seaford Head 01323 896939 01323 490851 happy to give free advice so why not www.blatchingtoncourtcarehome.co.uk www.seafordheadcarehome.co.uk 107 STEYNE ROAD, drop in or call - you could save £££’s SEAFORD, SEAFO.SeafordCareLtd.v2.sian.22.1.15.FULL.IBC.indd 1

EAST SUSSEX BN25 1AS TEL: 01323 490851 WWW.SEAFORDCARE.COM

Providing quality care for people with dementia in a safe environment E.S.C.C. Preferred provider

22/01/2015 18:14

Easy, level parking at: 3 Collington Mansions, Collington Avenue, Bexhill on Sea, TN39 3PU

*Price ex VAT. Most clients can claim VAT exemption. Please call for details.

For care homes.

For Living

Your local Bupa care homes.

Whether you need to find a care home now or are just starting to look into the options, we can support you and your loved one.

Our teams are trained to care for our residents’ individual needs. You’re welcome to come and say hello and we will be happy to show you around.

Call us for advice or to arrange a visit

0808 302 4102

Lines are open 8am to 6:30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12:30pm Saturday. Closed Sundays and bank holidays. Phone calls are free to 0808 numbers. We may record or monitor our calls.

Copper Beech Care Home

East Dean Grange Care Home

Residential Short stay

ResidentialDementia residential Short stay Palliative

Nursing Dementia

All types of funding welcome

No health insurance needed COP EDG Q119514 SEP19 CS 01404

2663_27363 SussexLiving_190x130_Press_CS 01404.indd 1

16/10/2019 16:09

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 61

DIVORCE

DIVORCE EXPLAINED The decision to divorce is never easy but for those who have decided to go their separate ways it is essential to understand the legal process and options for resolving disputes, as Lisa de Silva explains

W

ith new resolution services now available to make the process as amicable as possible, we’ve put together a basic guide to help you navigate some of the practicalities involved in divorcing.

GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE There are five legal grounds for divorce: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, two-year separation and five-year separation. Unreasonable behaviour can include things like threatening behaviour, addiction problems, running up debts or not spending any time together.

While a ‘no fault’ divorce bill has been temporarily delayed by Brexit, it is generally agreed that this will eventually be passed into law.

Currently, the only ‘no fault’ option is to divorce after a two-year separation with both parties in agreement. If one partner objects to divorce or has gone missing, divorce is still possible after a five-year separation.

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE As every family’s personal circumstances differ, it’s crucial to take professional legal advice. This need not 62 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

be expensive as many family law firms offer a fixed fee initial consultation to explain the options open to you and the most likely outcome regarding your specific situation.

LEGAL OPTIONS Once the decision to divorce has been made, the most important issue is deciding which dispute resolution service is right for you.

DIY Divorce

Involves both parties negotiating their own agreement before a solicitor makes it legally binding. Cost-effective, but if you do this without appreciating your

It’s crucial to take professional legal advice

full legal rights, the agreement may not be legally workable and it can end up being extremely costly in the event that things go wrong.

Mediation

Couples work with a mediator (often legally trained) to agree future arrangements regarding children, property, finances and pensions.

Once both parties are happy, the mediator draws up a Memorandum of Understanding, then made legally binding by a solicitor. Cost-effective but requires a good working relationship with your ex-spouse.

Collaborative Practice

Similar to mediation but the couple resolve issues face to face together with their respective lawyers. With everyone in the room, this approach can save time and money in lengthy bouts of legal correspondence.

Arbitration

The case is put before an independent arbitrator to hear both party’s arguments before passing judgement based on the evidence. Faster and much cheaper than going to court and useful for specific sticking points, such as pension rights.

Law Court Divorce

Each party appoints a lawyer and all communication is through legal channels before the case is heard in court, after which the judge makes the final decision on what constitutes a fair outcome. Hugely expensive, involves a lengthy timescale and best avoided where possible. l

Is your loved one coping this winter?

Here at Sussex Housing & Care we know that winter can be the hardest time of year for the older generation, with longer nights, the colder weather and loneliness all setting in.

We want to help people over 65 stay healthy and safe.

Book now to get one week* free respite care.

Contact us now to find out more: Saxonwood care home, Battle: 01424 774336•Email: saxonwood@sussexhousing.org.uk www.sussexhousing.org.uk/saxonwood *This offer is valid when booking two weeks of respite and can be used for the third consecutive week. Applies to standard or medium dependency care. Subject to availability.

Helping people live their later lives to the full

Easy Access Bathrooms

“Safe bathrooms at sensible prices” Anti-slip shower trays Anti-slip flooring Raised-height toilets Bidet shower toilets Shower seats Grab and support rails Wall Panelling or tiling Thermostatic showers

Walk-in Showers

Level-access Wetrooms

Care-assisted Showers

AT on Zero Vity mobil oms bathro

Walk-in Baths

We are a family owned business with over 20 years’ experience; designing, supplying and installing easy access bathrooms and wet-rooms Whether you need a full or part conversion or you are not quite ready for a mobility bathroom but would like some advice on how to future proof your exisiting bathroom we offer the complete service from start to finish Please call us for the best advice

01825 603017

www.batheinsafety.co.uk

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 63

DIARY

DATES

Do you have an East Sussex community event to promote?

Email hello@sussexliving.com and ask for a Diary Dates form.

Saturday 04 January, 10:00-15:00

Forest Row Market

Hartfield Road, Forest Road, Forest Row RH18 5DZ Fine Foods and Crafts Market.

Contact: Sue Young (Market Manager) 01342 778062 market@forestrow.gov.uk www.forestrow.gov.uk Sunday 05 January, 10:30

Sky Sports Racing Sussex National Plumpton Racecourse, Plumpton, Lewes BN7 3AL Join us for the Sussex National. A great days racing just after Christmas for the racing aficionado and families, especially as Kids race free. From £17 in advance. Accompanied children under 18s are free. From £17 in advance. £22 on the day. 01273 890383 racing@plumptonracecourse.co.uk www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk Monday 06, 13, 20 & 27 January, 08:00-17:00

General Antiques & Collectables Auction Gorringes, 15 North Street, Lewes BN7 2PE Gorringes hold a weekly Monday sale. This is a well-established auction holding between 600 and 800 lots of antique and other furniture, ceramics,

jewellery, pictures, silver and collectables. 01273 472503 clientservices@gorringes.co.uk Tuesdays 07, 14, 21 & 28 January, 14:30-15:30

Free One to One IT Help for Over 60s

craftwork etc. Members £5 per month, non-members £2 per week. 2 course lunch extra.

Contact: Angela 07931 426691 angela.white@salvationarmyorg.uk Wednesday 08 January, 14:00-16:15

Hurstpierpoint College Reception, College Lane, Hassocks BN6 9JS In collaboration with MSOPC, bring your laptop, iPad etc. and ask any questions, big or small. Coffee and chat afterwards. Mid Sussex Older Peoples Council 01444 242760 www.msopc.org.uk

East Grinstead Art Society

Tuesday 07 January, 20:00-22:00

Wednesday 08 January, 20:00

Lindfield & District Folk Dance Club Ashenground Community Centre, Vale Road, Haywards Heath RH16 4JR Folk dancing for fun, no partner needed. £3 including tea/coffee and biscuit at half time. First evening free.

Contact: Mike 01444 482741.

Wednesday 08, 15, 22 & 29 January, 12:30-15:00

The Young at Heart Club (Members & Non-members)

The Salvation Army Hall, Cyprus Road, Burgess Hill RH15 8DX Musical guest, movie shows, guest speakers, quizzes, chair aerobics,

Meridian Hall, East Court, East Grinstead RH19 3LT Critique of members’ paintings by Anne-Marie Brody, a well-known local artist and teacher. £3 to nonmembers.

Ian Graham 01342 321818 iangraham111@btinternet.com

The Perils of Gardening, - A Talk

by Andrew Harding King Edward Hall, 24 High Street, Lindfield RH16 2HH A talk about the Perils of Gardening. £1 members, £2 non-members.

Lindfield Horticultural Society, Membership enquiries: 01444 458509 www.lindfieldhorts.org.uk Thursday 09 January, 10:00-17:00

East Sussex Teachers Registration Open Day The Mallings, 112 Malling Street, Lewes BN7 2RG

Register with Class Cover for day to day, short /long term placements and permanent work for Teachers/ TAs/ LSAs/TEFL/SEN/Nursery/Primary/ Secondary/Colleges.

Contact: Lara@classcover.com 01273 957908 Thursday 09 January, 19:30 for 20:00

Ditchling Film Society – “Shoplifters” 15 Cert 121 mins Ditchling Village Hall, Ditchling BN6 8TA Director: Hirokazu Koreeda. The story is influenced by the Japanese recession. Free coffee, tea and biscuits are available and wine can be purchased by the glass beforehand.

Guests and temporary members are welcome for the sum of £5 payable at the door.

Thursday 09 January, 14:00 – 16:00

Arts Society Ashdown Forest “Pictures of the Floating World: Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints” Crowborough Community Centre, Pine Grove, Crowborough TN6 1FE Meri Archi introduces the “Floating World” of Japanese woodblock prints beginning in 16th Century, later beloved of impressionists and Post-Impressionists.

learning is developed within our inspiring countryside campus,

BUCKSWOOD

B

uckswood teaches students to aim high and to excel, combined with excellent extra-curricular and life skills experiences that we offer on our vibrant campus. Being in the Top 5% in the UK for academic progress in the Sixth Form is testament to the hard work from all at the school.

This experience is not just for the privileged few...

With a variety of forms of financial assistance, the cost of education is well within reach. .

01424 813813 www.buckswood.co.uk future@buckswood.co.uk Charity Number 306016

64 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

DIARY DATES Members free – visitors £6 Donald Speedie 01892 663388 AFDFASnews@gmail.com

Wednesday 15 January, 20:00- 22:00

Friday 10 January, sampling from 11:00 – 16:00

Function Suite, Clair Hall, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath RH16 3DN An illustrated talk by Baroness Joyce Quin about the illustrious life of Simone Veil. All members and visitors are most welcome. 01444 452385.

Taster day with The Culinary Caveman

The Seasons, 16-17 High Street, Lewes BN27 2AH We are absolutely delighted to be joined by author and founder of The Culinary Caveman Karl Elliot-Gough.

After years of research and foraging Karl has developed some unique super food powders. Come and try them, chat with Karl, and learn how they might help build your immune system up this January. 01273 359 200 www.seasonswholefoods.co.uk Friday 10 January, 20:00-21:30

Burgess Hill Heritage and History Society Cyprus Hall, Cyprus Road, Burgess Hill RH15 8DX Researching the History of Houses.

Jackie Marsh-Hobbs tells us how it’s done. The museum will be open from 19.00. Members £1.50, guests £3.50.

Fred Avery 01444 235088.

Saturday 11 January, 10:00 – 13:00

Chailey Repair Café

Chailey Village Hall, Chailey (A275) BN8 4BE Bring broken items needing repair and enjoy a cuppa and some of the best cake in Sussex while you wait! There is no charge, although we do ask for a donation towards our running costs.

Bryan McAlley chaileyrc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/RepairCafe.org/

The Mid-Sussex Franco-British Society – An illustrated talk in French

Monday 13 January, 20:00-23:00

The Group for Unattached Men & Women Aged 50+ A pub in Burgess Hill A round of golf? Day at the races?

Country walk? Dinner? Theatre? Quiz?

Cinema? Holiday? These are events from The Group Diary. The Group meets in Burgess Hill on the second Monday evening of every month. Meetings also in Lewes, Brighton and Horsham. Visit www.thegroup.org.uk and give one of the contact numbers a call.

Tuesday 14 January, 19:00 - 20:30

Free Orientation Session on Mindfulness The Health Boutique: Wellness Centre, Uckfield TN22 5QL An introduction to Remember Mindfulness. This is a free taster session in advance of the 8 week course to see if this course is right for you. Mindfulness can help improve many aspects of well being and quality of life. Booking essential: Debbie@remember mindfulness.co.uk 07904 982 579 www.remembermindfulness.co.uk

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB Sat 1 Feb

BOWLING FOR SOUP Sat 15 Feb

THE SCRIPT Tue 25 Feb

THE ORIGINAL HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Sat 29 Feb

THE WHITNEY HOUSTON HOLOGRAM TOUR Sat 7 Mar

THE BOYS ARE BACK Fri 27 Mar

THE JOE AND DIANNE SHOW Thur 2 Apr

SIMPLE MINDS Mon 20 Apr

JOE BONAMASSA Sat 25 Apr

GEORGE Thur 7 May

TRIXIE MATTEL Fri 22 May

DANCE ANTHEMS LIVE Sat 23 May

GREGORY PORTER Tue 26 May

IN CONVERSATION WITH THE SOPRANOS Wed 27 May

STRICTLY THE PROFESSIONALS Thur 28-Fri 29 May

box office 0844 847 1515* www.brightoncentre.co.uk *calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 65

DIARY DATES Tuesday 14 January, 19:45

Friday 17 January, sampling from 11:00 – 16:00

Taster day with plant-based foods

‘A Wood on Clay’

Hurstpierpoint Horticultural Society, Club Suite, Village Hall, Hurstpierpoint BN6 9UY A talk by Paul Roberts on the landscape and nature at Lag Wood and Pheasant Field, Hassocks. Plus drinks and nibbles to celebrate the New Year. £2 members, £3 non-members.

Kathy Green greenhpp@tiscali.co.uk

The Seasons, 16-17 High Street, Lewes BN27 2AH We are delighted it’s Veganuary, and to celebrate this we will be sampling alternative milks, cheese, vegan pâté, hot chocolate and much more!

01273 359 200 www.seasonswholefoods.co.uk

Thursday 16 January, 19:30 – 21:30

Saturday 18 January, 10:30 - 16:00

Victoria Baptist Church, Eldon Road, Eastbourne BN21 1UE Illustrated talk titled ‘Honey-buzzards, Hawfinches and Goshawks in Sussex’

by Ornithologist, Mark Mallalieu. £3.00 for SWT members, £4.00 for visitors - all welcome. Janet Nott, Secretary, Eastbourne Regional Group.

01424 777291 secretary-swteastbourne@hotmail.co.uk www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/ whats-on

Lewes Road, Little Horsted, Uckfield TN22 5TS A perfect opportunity to see the house set up for a wedding, meet the experienced friendly team and chat to some of our regular wedding suppliers and the Registrar.

Call Liz or Aimee: 01825 750581 www.horstedplace.co.uk

Horsted Place Hotel Wedding Open Day

Sussex Wildlife Trust Eastbourne Regional Group Event

Saturday 18 January, 10:00 - 16:00

Paws & Claws Book Fair

Lewes Town Hall (side entrance), High Street, Lewes BN7 2QS 40 dealers offering 1000’s of secondhand, rare, readable and collectable books and interesting printed ephemera, refreshments available. 50p admission.

01273 477555

Thursday 16 January, 14:30

Mid Sussex Association of the National Trust Clare Hall, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath RH16 3DN A Talk on History of the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew presented by Sarah Oldridge. Members £3.00. Nonmembers £5.00. Membership £7.00.

David Waite 01444 453954 dclwaite@btinternet.com

WATERCOLOUR PAINTING

January

... ... ...

Fri 24th - Rooster Tail Sat 25th - Supersaurus Sun 26th - Savannah Lunchtime Jazz Fri 31st - Strange Brew

... ... ...

Fri 10th - Guilty Pleasures Sat 11th - Maelstrom Sun 12th - Assorted Nuts Lunchtime Jazz

... ... ...

... ... ...

Fri 17th - High-Octane Junkies Sat 18th - Elliots Sleeping

Sat 1st Feb - Paul & Paul Sun 2nd - Assorted Nuts Lunchtime Jazz

Tel: 01825 872227 www.6bellsfolk.co.uk

2019/20

Wealden do the best

tions attrac x in Susse

r yside oun t ing C Coastline unn ... St ctacular Spe

London

Wealden One hour from

66 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

... ... ...

Tues 21st - Folk N Blues

... ... ...

LOOK NO FURTHER To be included and to promote your business call us now on 01825 212131 or email hello@sussexliving.com

Sun 19th - Savannah Lunchtime Jazz

Fri 3rd - Barbed Sat 4th - Replica Radio Sun 5th - Assorted Nuts Lunchtime Jazz

www.johudson.com

WANTING TO PROMOTE IN EAST SUSSEX?

Community Centre, Hartfield Road, Forest Row RH18 5DZ

Tues 7th - Folk N Blues

JO HUDSON johudsonpaint@gmail.com

Repair Café Forest Row

THE SIX BELLS - CHIDDINGLY

Weekly Classes and Monthly Saturday Workshops at Framfield, near Uckfield with professional artist

01435 867982

Saturday 18 January, 10:00-13:00

Wealden do

the best attractions ¬

Area of Outstanding Beauty Stunning Countryside Spectacular Coastline Over 80 Attractions Hundreds of events

o-sussex.co.uk

www.wealdend

London by train

www.wealdendo-sussex.co.uk

DIARY DATES If your jeans need patching, your bike is squeaking or your kettle won’t boil, bring it along and see if we can help.

Free to enter. All repairs are free, but donations will be gratefully received towards ongoing costs of the service. www.facebook.com/RepairCafe ForestRow Saturday 18 January, 10:00

Mid Sussex Ramblers – Ditchling Common Circular Car Park at Ditchling Common BN6 8SQ TQ337180 Numerous stiles and muddy underfoot after rain. Middleton Common Lane, Little Black-brook Wood, Streat Lane, Green Lane Inholmes Cottage.

Challoners, Greenacres, The Potteries, Ditchling Common. 7.5mi/12.1km Moderate. Jill 01273 480167 07938833868 on the day.

Sunday 19 January, 19:30

Wivelsfield Films

Off Eastern Road, Wivelsfield Green RH17 7QG Tickets £6 in advance from the Post Office and Village Stores or The Cock Inn, or online via the Facebook page.

Homemade cakes, ice creams and drinks served before the film and during the interval.

Monday 20 January, 10:00 - 12:00

Vitality Villages Coffee Morning Great Space, Herstmonceux Health Centre, Hailsham Road, Herstmonceux, BN27 4JX A talk by Pam Russell from St. Wilfrid’s Hospice followed by our AGM. Hear

about community activities. Coffee, tea, biscuits and fun quiz. Contact: Sheila Charlton: 01323 833673 sheilacharlton@uwclub.net Monday 20 January, 14:00 for 14:15 – 16:30

Mid Sussex Philatelic Society

King Edward Hall, Lindfield RH16 2SL (Lunch at the Bent Arms from 12:00).

Philately related to the Battle of the River Plate presented by Graham Booth. Jim Etherington 01273 471897 jespeth@hotmail.com Monday 20 January, 20:00 – 23:00

The Group, a club for unattached men and women aged 50+ Brighton Country walk? Dinner? Theatre? A round of golf? Day at the races? Quiz?

Cinema? Dancing? Holiday? These are events from the Group diary. The Group meets in Brighton on the fourth Thursday evening of every month.

Meetings also in Lewes, Horsham, Burgess Hill and Worthing Visit www.thegroup.org.uk and give one of the Contact numbers a call.

Wednesday 22 January, 19:30-22:00

Sussex Bonsai Group Meeting Wivelsfield Village Hall, Eastern Road, Wivelsfield RH17 7QH This Meeting will be the AGMcovering all aspects of the Group. All welcome to attend. Free for first visit.

Tea and coffee will be available.

Contact: Ray Brunsden 01444 244267 ray.b@talktalk.net

Ridley Inns

Thursday 23 January, 14:00-16:00

Eastbourne Blind Society 124 – 142 Longstone Road, Eastbourne BN22 8DA Social gathering for those who have worked or volunteered in the NHS or Social Care. Annual membership fee £20. Meeting charge – members £1, visitors £2. Every last Thursday, but not December.

Contact: Jane Dubery 01323 726811 Thursday 23 January, 20:00 – 23:00

The Group, a club for unattached men and women aged 50+ Lewes Country walk? Dinner? Theatre? A round of golf? Day at the races? Quiz?

Cinema? Dancing? Holiday? These are events from the Group diary. The Group meets in Lewes on the fourth Thursday evening of every month.

Meetings also in Brighton, Horsham, Burgess Hill and Worthing Visit www.thegroup.org.uk and give one of the Contact numbers a call.

Friday 24 to Sunday 26 January

11th Annual Dark and Delicious Winter Ales Festival Coopers Arms, Coopers Lane, Crowborough TN6 1SN Open all day during the festival. At least 12 cask ales. Food available. Book ahead for Sunday lunch: 01892 654796 Saturday 25 January, 09:00-12:30

Hassocks Village Market National Tyres Forecourt, 60 Keymer Road,

Hassocks BN6 8AR Held every 4th Saturday in the month, this is a lively and bustling village market supporting local producers and crafts people. Huge selection of fresh produce, plants and much more.

Contact: hassocksvillagemarket1@ gmail.com or via Facebook ‘Hassocks Village Market’.

Saturday 25 January, 14:00-17:00

East Grinstead Lions invite you to the 42nd Annual Senior Citizens Party Sackville School, Lewes Road, East Grinstead RH19 3TY Afternoon tea and lots of entertainment!

Transport available. Tickets: Ian Forbes, 1 Southlands, East Grinstead RH19 4BN enclosing s.a.e. or lionianforbeseg@gmail.com or 01342 326785.

Sunday 26 January, 09:00 – 15:00

Antique and Collectors Fair Horam Village Hall, Horam TN21 0JE Refreshments and Parking. Entry £1.

Mary 07899 996 568.

Wednesday 29 January, 19:45-22:00

An Evening of Birdsong

The Old Court House, East Court, College Lane, East Grinstead RH19 3LT Adrian Thomas, the RSPB guru of Song and Garden Birds will present this evening of birdsong. £4 RSPB group members, £5 non-members.

Phil Holland 01342 311295

Characterful, family-run pubs with great food

www.ridleyinns.co.uk

Enjoy a Warm Welcome, Delicious Food and Great Hospitality Ridley Inns are the Family Friendly & Family Run Local Pub Group

THE

HEATHFIELD TAVERN Station Road, Heathfield East Sussex, TN21 8DR For reservations Tel: 01435 864847 TheHeathfieldTavern

Uckfield Road (A26), Near Ringmer East Sussex BN8 5RX For reservations Tel: 01273 812040 www.cockpub.co.uk

Eastbourne Road, Ridgewood Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5SP For reservations Tel: 01825 762989 www.highlandsinn.co.uk

BOOK A TABLE AND GET TOGETHER WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS DON’T FORGET TO BOOK EARLY FOR VALENTINE’S DAY! RIDLEY INNS ARE THE PERFECT PLACE TO CELEBRATE

January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 67

MONEY MATTERS

With the General Election now fading into history, Robin Stevenson ponders some potential tax implications for the months and years to come

they will, but instead of a blanket increase I suspect there maybe another tax band over and above the additional rate of tax, which currently stands at 45% on income over £150,000.

Perhaps a 60% rate on income over £250,000?

Inheritance Tax was thrown around by all the major political parties, and I think this tax could be overdue a rethink as it hasn’t really changed since the 1970’s. One idea that caught my eye was a suggestion amounting to an alignment of Inheritance Tax to Capital Gains Tax. If we consider Capital Gains Tax to be a tax that arises every time assets change hands then it seems to make sense that the same tax applies to estates, after all it is the same scenario with assets changing hands. At the moment, when someone dies, Capital Gains Tax does not apply when their assets are passed to a beneficiary.

Post Election A

TAXATION

t the time of writing (just a few days after the election) Instead, all the deceased assets are accumulated and then a date for the first budget of the new Government Inheritance Tax is applied to that total, and the beneficiary takes hasn’t been set, however Brexit and the promised those assets after the Inheritance Tax has been paid on the estate. spending will have an influence. I expect the budget How would the tax situation under the current Inheritance will introduce some big changes as the Government tries to lay Tax regime compare to a system where the estate pays Capital down a statement of intent. I think we can be sure, initially, Gains Tax on the assets as they are passed to the beneficiary? that Brexit will continue to take priority The current rate of Inheritance Tax is 40%, and tax will have to take a back seat for the whilst the highest rate of Capital Gains Tax time being. How many of the pre-election Maybe a change in the system is 28%. If we note that Inheritance Tax promises find their way into legislation is payable on the total value of the asset starts to look attractive for will remain to be seen although I am fairly whereas Capital Gains Tax is payable only confident the announcement planning if there is a gain, then maybe a change taxpayers to drop Corporation Tax to 17% will be in the system starts to look attractive for scrapped and it will be set to remain at 19%. taxpayers. But of course it isn’t as simple as Will the Government try to make an early impression on that. There are some big incentives available in Inheritance Tax, previous Labour strongholds by doffing its cap to some early not least a large £325,000 nil rate band meaning if the deceased principles, and increase the highest rate of Income Tax? Maybe estate amounts to less than £325,000 then no Inheritance Tax is payable. If we also include the residential nil rate band and the transferable nil rate bands as well then from April 2020 we could have estates with less than £1,000,000 not paying any inheritance tax at all.

So where does this leave us? We simply don’t know. But one thing is for sure, I’m looking forward to how our tax system is going to change in the next five years, because one thing is for sure… it will. l Money Matters is written by Robin Stevenson CTA ATT TEP, Head of Taxation & Private Clients, Swindells LLP Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Tel: 01825 763366 As individual circumstances vary considerably from person to person, the views expressed in this article are meant only as a general guide, and any specific advice required should be sought from your own professional adviser or by contacting the writer at his place of work.

No responsibility for loss resulting to any person acting as a result of any material in the above article can be accepted by the writer or Swindells LLP.

68 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Male & Female Drivers ® Lowest Meter Rates in Town

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All Makes & Models • MOTs & Servicing Repairs • Diagnostic Specialists Wheel Alignment • Tyres & Exhausts Clutches • Cambelts • ECU Remapping Air Conditioning • Brakes Brake Disc Skimming • Welding & Fabrication • Engine Tune-Ups Petrol Injector Testing & Servicing Diesel Specialists • Carbon Cleaning •Courtesy Cars Available

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T: 07960 249021 mobile

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7am-8am Early drop off appointments available Monday – Friday Replacement Vehicle (allow 2-3 weeks booking time) Free fitting of wiper blades and most bulbs Fixed Price servicing and service plans available Tyre Price Match where possible MOTs Wheel alignment & wheel balancing Air conditioning servicing & repairs Free wash & Vac

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 69

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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hard and soft landscaping - garden design - turfing - fencing / decking tree / hedge work - patios / driveways - general garden works

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70 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Blackboys Service Station is a family-run business established for 40 years with over 25 years Renault experience.

all makes & models ...

• TYRES • MOTS CLASS 1, 2, 4 & 7 • EXHAUSTS • AIR CONDITIONING • SERVICING • WELDING • REPAIRS 01825 890317 • DIAGNOSTICS • COURTESY CARS www.bss-renault.co.uk ru@bss-renault.co.uk

WE NOW DO CLASS 7 MOTS

NEW ADDRESS: Lancelot Unit, Squires Farm Industrial Estate, Palehouse Common,Nr Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5RB

Bespoke Hardwood and Wrought Iron

We clean your oven... so you don’t have to.

Gates and Railings

Call today to have your oven, hob, extractor or Aga professionally cleaned Paul Gilbert Tel 01323 406386 Mob tel 07935 820251 www.ovenwizards.com

• Full range of automation • Specialists in sliding gates • All work is completed in house from start to finish.

Spalding Enterprises Ltd Hailsham BN27 3JL T: 01323 847744 M: 0776 196 1545 www.woodbees.co.uk

SPECIALISTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF HEAT RETAINING LINER POOLS

Mr Kindling Exceedingly good wood

Mr Kindling specialises in the supply of top quality kindling and logs. Perfect kindling for easy lighting and quality seasoned logs.

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• uPVC & Aluminium Windows, • Bi-Fold, Composite and Doors & Conservatories Garage Doors • Laminated & Toughened Glass

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 71

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

You could be advertising in this space for as little as

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Uckfield Garage

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UCKFIELD GARAGE 143 HIGH STREET UCKFIELD . TN22 1ES

BUILDING CONTRACTORS With over 40 years of building experience

• Conversions • Extensions • New Builds • Refurbishments • Improvements Telephone: 01323 841532

Website: www.jhpayne.co.uk Email: enquiries@jhpayne.co.uk Bolneys Units, South Road, Hailsham BN27 3NU

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WATER PIPE RENEWAL No-mess pipelaying by mole or steerable drill, we can bore up to 100m at a time under your garden or driveway, without digging the surface.

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Contact 01825 212131 hello@sussexliving.com 72 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

T: 01825 872611 . www.nickcoleman.net . M: 07778 664466 MILL FARM . GOLDEN CROSS . HAILSHAM . EAST SUSSEX . BN27 3ST

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

OLD HAND TOOLS OF RURAL CRAFTS Bought & Sold

Excavations Ponds / Impact Moleing

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Also architectural ironmongery, including brass, locks, hinges, knobs, and handles

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A natural growth accelerator for plants and vegetables

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Sussex Ponds & Gardens For all ponds, terraces and associated landscaping Portfolio available Personal and efficient service

Telephone: Stephan Hurst 01825 872180 www.sussexpondsandgardens.co.uk

Problems with Water Supply or Disposal?

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“Mechanical Mole” Pipe Laying, Septic Tanks and Sewage Treatment.

Stockists of Pumps, Pipes, Fittings and Drain Jetting.

Workshop facilities also available for service and repair of all types of plant and machinery.

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January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 73

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

MORE THAN JUST A MAGAZINE

SUSSEX LIVING MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Sussex Living Ltd (East Sussex Edition) PO Box 287, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 9ED Tel: 01825 212131 www.sussexliving.com Registered Address/Head Office 128 High Street, Hurstpierpoint , West Sussex BN6 9PX

/sussexliving

@sussexliving

MANAGING EDITOR Adele Trathan adele@sussexliving.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Sara Whatley editorial@sussexliving.com

WE CAN ALSO HELP YOU PRODUCE YOUR Brochures Books & Journals Advertising & Design Copywriting Proofreading

EDITORIAL SUPPORT Robert Veitch DESIGN AND ARTWORK Jo Grey, Stephen King, Ruth Preston ADVERTISING Adele Trathan, Chris Tindley hello@sussexliving.com PROOFREADER Diane Clark DISTRIBUTION Colin Trathan SOCIAL MEDIA Robert Veitch FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Ian Kirwan accounts@sussexliving.com CREDIT CONTROL Michelle Brett creditcontrol@sussexliving.com

WHATEVER YOUR PUBLISHING OR DESIGN PROBLEM WE HAVE THE SOLUTION CONTACT US 01825 212131 hello@sussexliving.com 74 SUSSEX LIVING | January 2020

CONTRIBUTORS Flo Whitaker, Hanna Prince, Helen Stockton, Lisa de Silva, Narratives, Robin Stevenson, Robert Veitch, Tim Saunders PRINTED BY www.magprint.co.uk Part of The Media Sound Holdings group INCORPORATING MAGNET MAGAZINE

Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all materials submitted to Sussex Living we cannot accept r­ esponsibility for loss or ­damage to such ­materials. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Sussex Living can take no ­responsibility for omissions or errors. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited ­submissions or the return of submitted items.

Sussex Living always welcomes feedback, but if you do have any complaints which cannot be resolved by us please contact the Independent Press Standards Organisation, c/o IPSO, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London, EC4M 7LG, or via complaints@ipso. co.uk. For further information about IPSO and its regulators visit ipso.co.uk

Please recycle this magazine

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES

SUBSIDIES AVAILABLE *Quote Ref SLE0120

BEFORE

LATER THAT DAY

• COOLER IN SUMMER • WARMER IN WINTER • QUIETER IN BAD WEATHER • INSTALLED IN LESS THAN A DAY

LIMITED SUBSTANTIAL SUBSIDIES AVAILABLE We’re planning to make insulation a must have addition to every conservatory across the UK. To find out more about the benefits that the Green Space system can offer and see if your conservatory is suitable for any potential subsidies, contact us now.

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Putting off your enquiry could reduce the potential subsidy available to you

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106-108 FM, DAB or online at moreradio.online January 2020 | SUSSEX LIVING 75

Do you need more living Space?

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Nov18 SLE Classified.indd 92

31/10/2018 12:45