Sussex Local Magazine - Chichester/Midhurst JANUARY 2023

Quoteofthemonth...

Jan2023

HELLO!

Welcometo2023and hopefullysomerespitefromthe turbulenceofthepastcouple ofyears.

Asisourtradition,theJanuary issuehasalargerhealthand wellbeingfeature.Ifthelast fewyearshavetaughtus anything,it’stheimportanceof lookingafterourownphysical andmentalhealthand wellbeingsowecanalsohelp thosearoundus.Itmaybe coldoutsidebutawalkwith like-mindedpeoplecanbea realtonic.Thereareguided walkstakingplaceinourarea mostdaysandwehavea dedicatedpageoflistings. Beinghomelessiswretchedbut evenmoresointhecolder, darkermonths.Brightoncharity SussexNightspotprovidesa vitalservicehelpingtohouse youngpeoplewithvettedhost familiesintheircommunity. “Gardensarefourdimensional”says horticulturalistAndrewStaib. Findouthowtodesignyour gardenfromtherootsupand makethemostofthespace. Don’tforgetwearehappyto printcharityandcommunity information,newsandevents forfree.

HappyNewYear!

Kris&Jeff

Disclaimer-Whilstadvertisementsareprintedin goodfaith,SussexLocal(KayPublishingLtd)isan independentcompanyanddoesnotendorse productsorservicesthatappearinthismagazine. SussexLocalcannotbeheldresponsibleforerrors oromissionsorclaimsmadebycontributors.Views andopinionsofcontributorsarenotnecessarily thoseofthepublisher. KayPublishingLtdPOBox2237PulboroughRH209AH info@sussexlocal.net|www.sussexlocal.net|01903868474

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What’s On - January 2023

Event organisers please enter your event details on www.sussexlocal.net/events-add/ We regret that we cannot accept submissions by email. We take the details from our website for the magazine listings which can appear in up to all eight editions distributed to over 54,000 addresses. Charity, community and non-profit events are free of charge (subject to space). Commercial events can be listed from just £25 plus VAT which includes promotion through Facebook & Twitter. Deadline for February events to be put on website - 4th January

BUSINESS

02/01/2023 12:00 PM Sussex Innovation Networking events A series of events launched aimed at local businesses & entrepreneurs. The University of Sussex Business School Brighton BN1 9SN Free. University of Sussex Business School: exteng@sussex.ac.uk

CHARITY

18/01/2023 2:00 PM Friends of the South Downs Zoom Webinar with George Monbiot How can we be effective in the issues facing our environment? Zoom £10 Gill 01798 875073 enquiries@friendsofthesouthdowns.org.uk friendsofthesouthdowns.org.uk/public-events/ 20/02/2023 11:00 AM 'Promise of Snowdrop' at Denmans Gardens Denmans Garden Visit and Talk at Denmans Gardens in Fontwell BN18 0SU Lucy Ashworth 01243 572433 office@snowdroptrust.com

CHILDREN'S EVENTS

1st & 2nd Jan 9:00 AM The Nutcracker Festive Trail in Chichester Follow the trail and discover the names of the 11 Nutcracker Kings guarding the city of Chichester City Centre PO19 1LQ Chichester BID office@chichesterbid.co.uk www.chichesterbid.co.uk/christmas

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

2nd Jan & 6th Feb 8:00 PM Felpham Singles

Social Club Social club for widowed, separated or divorced of mature age. monthly The George Inn Bognor Regis PO22 7PL Free/donations Anne Cook 01243 821530 anniecook555@yahoo.co.uk www.felphamsingles.yolasite.com

5th Jan & 2nd Feb 6:45 PM Comic book club Novels aimed at adults including literary adaptations, biography, history, journalism, travelogue, memoir, politics etc monthly Private house Barnham PO22 0EF Free. Contact Paul Wilson: paulw21erin@gmail.com 7th Jan & 4th Feb 10:30 AM Parkinson's Support Group in Washington Support group for people with Parkinson's and their families Washington Village Memorial Hall RH20 4AP £2 Gillian Chard 01903 746871 gillian.chard@btinternet.com 09/01/2023 7:30 PM Every Monday, and Wednesday and Friday West Chiltington Table Tennis Club West Chiltington Village Hall hosts Table Tennis Club three days of the week West Chiltington Village Hall RH20 2PZ Ron Ladley ronfayeladley@hotmail.co.uk 09/01/2023 7:30 PM Pulborough Meadows WI January 2023 Meeting A friendly, small group who meet every second Monday of the month at Pulborough Village Hall RH20 2BF Mary Walker 07920 326000 mary.walker50@gmail.com 13/01/2023 3:00 PM Rosehill Book Club New members welcomed to this small, friendly club Rosehill Book Club Pulborough RH20 4NL Carol Davison carol953@hotmail.co.uk 18th Jan & 15th Feb 7:30 PM Sullington Windmills WI A friendly group of around 60 ladies, meet monthly on the third Wednesday of each month. Parish Hall Sullington RH20 3PP Erika Brichta erikabrichta@hotmail.co.uk sullingtonwindmills.org/ 19/01/2023 11:00 AM South Downs Probus Club in Findon Monthly Club Lunch for retired gentlemen to make new friends and enjoy trips and events in Storrington area. The Black Horse Findon BN14 0SX Don Johnston 01903 740904 donjohnston@btinternet.com 25/01/2023 2:30 PM Storrington Flower Club Affiliated to NAFAS. Welcome new members and visitors. Sullington Parish Hall RH20 3PP £6 01903 742102 chrissyldesmond@gmail.com

More events on www.sussexlocal.net - please contact event organisers to check for changes

Every Sun (except b/holidays) 11:00 AM West Chiltington Sunday badminton club meets weekly on Sundays from 11AM to 1PM at West Chiltington Village Hall Pulborough RH20 2PZ Vivian Jones vmjones18@hotmail.co.uk

Every Wed 11:30 AM Wednesday Lunch Club Weekly lunch club for the over-55’s with social activities before lunch Pulborough Village Hall RH20 2BF £5 Contact Louise: louisekaiser4807@gmail.com

Every Wed 7:00 PM Worthing Short Mat Bowls Club Short Mat Bowls Club in Worthing play every Wednesday St. Andrews School Worthing BN14 8BG Contact Betty Potts: bobetty_highsalvington@yahoo.co.uk worthingshortmatbowls.weebly.com

Every Thurs 10:30 Thakeham Table Tennis Club playing for fun and exercise with coaching available. Thakeham Village Hall RH20 3GP andytttc@gmail.com thakehamtabletennis.co.uk

COURSES

11/01/2023 and weekly for 10 weeks 2:00 PM "Judge and Jury" WEA Course in Billingshurst Study the people, issues and outcomes of 10 famous trials Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre RH14 9QW £100 for 10 sessions (benefit claimants 2 hours free) David 0300 303 3464 david@daviddaley.plus.com

COURSES & TUITION

9th, 16th, 23 & 30th Jan and 6th & 13th Feb 10:00 AM WEA class in Chichester - Hearth and Home: Sussex Vernacular Buildings 5 sessions on history of housing locally New Park Community and Arts Centre Chichester PO19 7XY £50 (income related benefit concession) WEA 0300 303 3464 www.wea.org.uk/ chichester.branch@wea.ac.uk

28/01/2023 9:30 AM Birding for absolute beginners at Pulborough Brooks Get to grips with birding on this absolute beginner course RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL £20.50 for members and £25.50 for Non-members Lydia Fletcher lydia.fletcher@rspb.co.uk 01798 875851 events.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks

03/02/2023 9:30 AM Birding for beginnersWinter Wetlands at Pulborough Brooks Learn more about winter visitors at RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL £20.50 for members and £25.50 for Non-members Lydia Fletcher 01798 875851 lydia.fletcher@rspb.co.uk events.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks

EXHIBITION

18/02/2023 2:30 PM 'Snowdrops - where you least expect them' exhibition in Fontwell Garden Visit and Photography Exhibition Denmans Gardens Fontwell BN18 0SU Lucy Ashworth 01243 572433 office@snowdroptrust.com

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

Last day - 1st Jan 2:00 PM 'Beauty and the Beast' pantomime at The Regis Centre It's Panto time again, with 'Beauty & the Beast'. Alexandra Theatre, Regis Centre PO21 1BN £18.50£20.50 £17 - £19 under 16's Hazel Latus 01243 867676 hazel.latus@regiscentre.co.uk www.alexandratheatre.co.uk

1st & 2nd Jan 10:30 AM Tree-Mendous Christmas Explore Petworth House to see Christmas trees taking centre stage this season. daily Petworth House and Park Petworth GU28 9LR Petworth Property Office 01798 342207 petworth@nationaltrust.org.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth 25/02/2023 2:30 PM Ministry of Science Live! Science Saved the World Join presenters as they dive into the world of science and look at how science shapes our modern world Worthing Pavilion Theatre BN11 3PX £17.50 01903 206206 boxoffice@wtm.uk wtm.uk/events/ ministry-of-science-livescience-saved-the-world

FILM

11/01/2023 7:30 PM

Storrington Rotary Film Night - Phantom of the Open Starring Mark Rylance Tickets £5 from Card Shop Bar + Raffle Info Ken 01903 740745 Sullington Village Hall Storrington RH20 3PP £5 Info - Ken Collins: 01903 740745 kandjcoll@btinternet.com 16/01/2023 7:30 PM Pulborough Film Night Mrs Harris Goes To Paris is a 2022 Drama/ Comedy 1h 56m Pulborough Village Hall RH20 2BF £7 Terri: 07711 470635 terriashpool@uwclub.net

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ARDENS & HORTICULTURE

1st Jan (Last day) - 4:30 PM Glow Wild at Wakehurst The enchanting winter lantern trail is back at Wakehurst, Kew's wild botanic garden, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN From £14 (Adult Kew/Wakehurst Member) From £11 (Child). Under 4's go free. Wakehurst glowwild@kew.org www.kew.org/wakehurst

HEALTH & FITNESS

28/01/2023

8:30 AM Bluecoat Sports Open Day in Horsham Kickstart the New Year at this Open Day. All activities on offer will be free to everybody!

Bluecoat Sports Health & Fitness Club Horsham RH13 0YB Free. Bluecoat Sports Health & Fitness Club 01403 247572 info@bluecoatsports.co.uk www.bluecoatsports.co.uk/

HORSERACING

02/01/2023 10:15 AM Sussex National Raceday at Plumpton Racecourse Enjoy the historic Sussex National. 7 races, music, food & drink, under 18s free! Plumpton Racecourse Ltd Lewes BN7 3AL £17 01273 890383 racing@plumptonracecourse.co.uk www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk/events/ goodwin-racing-sussex-national-raceday/ 18/01/2023 11:15 AM January Jumps Raceday at Plumpton Racecourse Come along to Plumpton Racecourse to enjoy six races Plumpton Racecourse Lewes BN7 3AL £16 Free for under 18s racing@plumptonracecourse.co.uk www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk/events/januaryjumps-raceday/ 01273 890383

MUSIC

07/01/2023 7:00 PM Mozart Symphony No. 41 Lewes Music Group Orchestra and Lewes Singers present Vivaldi - Gloria, MozartSymphony No. 41 All Saints Centre Lewes BN7 2LE £15 Child: £8. lewesmusicgroup.com Daniel: admin@lewesmusicgroup.com

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09/01/2023 8:00 PM Fernhurst Choral Society

Weekly rehearsals leading to concerts in March and May. Fernhurst Village Hall GU27 3EH See website for prices Nigel 07485 145141 or Tina 01730 816542 fernhurstchoral@gmail.com www.fernhurstchoralsociety.org.uk/ 19/01/2023 7:30 PM Dixieland/Trad Jazz in Lancing Evening of Dixieland and Traditional Jazz with the Featherstone Jazz Four. DRNK Coffee House, Lancing Manor Leisure Estate Lancing BN15 0PH Free. Derek Little 01903 249900 dglittle@ntlworld.com

SALES & MARKETS

28/01/2023 9:00 AM Pulborough Farmers

Market Eggs, bread, home made cakes, crafts. Plus popular cafe with full English breakfast, teas & coffee Pulborough Village Hall Pulborough RH20 2BF Terri Ashpool 07711 470635 terriashpool@uwclub.net

21st Jan & 18th Feb 9:00 AM Arundel Farmers Market 3rd Saturday of every month - local growers, bakers, meat, poultry, flowers, plants and food and drink makers. Arundel BN18 9AA www.arundelfarmersmarket.co.uk

04/02/2023 9:30 AM Cheeki Monkeys Big Baby & Children market Buy or sell quality, gently used babies' and children’s toys, clothes and equipment. The Shoreham centre Shoreham-By-Sea BN43 5WU £1.50 Delphine delphine.cheekimonkeys@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Cheeki-Monkeys-BrightonBN2-and-Shoreham-by-Sea-107135655022217

SOCIAL & ENTERTAINMENT

18/02/2023 7:30 PM Eastergate Motown and Northern Soul Evening Evening of Motown and Northern Soul, all played on pure vinyl. Great dancefloor and free parking Eastergate Village Hall PO20 3RP £5 Tony Cassini 07718 415620 di_cassini@hotmail.com fb.me/e/5RsMT1F5O

TALKS

06/01/2023 2:30 PM Weather Lore - Fact or Fiction? talk in Storrington How reliable are weather sayings such as ‘cows lying down mean rain imminent’ or ‘red sky at night? Storrington Museum RH20 4LL £8 / £6 members 01903 740188 storringtonmuseum@hotmail.com storringtonmuseum.com/

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09/01/2023 10:00 AM The Arts Society, Steyning Cubism Explained by Steven Barrett The Steyning Centre BN44 3XZ Free to members, £10 donation for visitors. The Chairman steyning@theartssociety.org www.theartssocietysteyning.org.uk

09/01/2023

7:15 PM 'The Red Arrows' in Chichester

A talk about 'The Red Arrows' with Lt. Stuart Roberts at Chichester Park Hotel in Westhampnett, PO19 7QL £8 David Batcock 07502 400657 david.airaces@hotmail.com

11/01/2023 10:00 AM How to start your family tree This is one of a series of workshops to get you started with your family and local history research. West Sussex Record Office Chichester PO19 1DD £7.50 / £6.50 for members of West Sussex Archives Society Matthew Jones: 01243 753602 record.office@westsussex.gov.uk www.westsussex.gov.uk/ro

17/01/2023 2:00 PM The Sinking of the Laconia Talk in Midhurst Talk by Jeremy Prescott and social event. Midhurst Methodist Church Hall Midhurst GU29 9DU £2 members, £3 visitors thinking of joining Midhurst u3a midhurstu3a@gmail.com midhurstu3a.org.uk 23/01/2023 7:15 PM 'A Day at the Antiques Roadshow' & 'About Military Medals' in Chichester Mark Smith - the BBC TV Antiques Roadshow 'medals & militaria' presenter, coming to Chichester. Chichester Park Hotel PO19 7QL £8 David Batcock 07502 400657 david.airaces@hotmail.com

01/02/2023 10:00 AM Researching the history of your house This is one of a series of workshops to get you started with your family and local history research. West Sussex Record Office Chichester PO19 1DD £7.50 / £6.50 for members of West Sussex Archives Society Matthew Jones 01243 753602 record.office@westsussex.gov.uk www.westsussex.gov.uk/ro More events on www.sussexlocal.net - please contact event organisers to check for changes

28/02/2023 7:00 PM The Pallants:

Chichester's

Town within the City Join local historian Alan Green for this fascinating talk, hosted by West Sussex Record Office West Sussex Record Office Chichester PO19 1DD £8 / £5 to attend online Matthew Jones 01243 753602 record.office@westsussex.gov.uk

THEATRE

10/01/2023 2:00 PM The 2 O’clock

WALKS

Club

The Reunion Band ‘Fun Filled Folk’ Performing a wide range of great songs and tunes people can easily recognise, drawn from English and Irish folk traditions. “Just Let Yourself Go”. Alexandra Theatre Regis Centre PO21 1BL £6 / Friends of the Theatre £4.50 01243 861010 info@regiscentre.co.uk alexandratheatre.co.uk/ events/the-regis-2-oclock-club/2023-01-10

19th – 21st Jan 7.30pm

Marvellous Musicals

This romp through Musical Theatre moments includes selections from Legally Blonde, Six, Jesus Chris Superstar, Sister Act and more Alexandra Theatre Regis Centre PO21 1BL Adult: £17 / Child: £8 info@regiscentre.co.uk 01243 861010 alexandratheatre.co.uk/events

21/01/2023 7:00 AM Dawn of the Ducks at Pulborough Brooks – wildlife watching walk with breakfast Join them at dawn and watch the brooks come alive with waders, ducks and geese. RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL £20.50 for members and £25.50 for Nonmembers Lydia Fletcher 01798 875851 lydia.fletcher@rspb.co.uk events.rspb.org.uk/ pulboroughbrooks

YOGA

Every Mon varied session times Wellness Yoga

Classes focus on mindful movement paired with awareness of mind body and breath. New Classes at Bury Village Hall Mondays Slow Flow 11.15-12.15 & Chair Yoga 12.30-1.30. Slow flow also in Southwater Mondays 9-10am & Wednesdays 6-7pm,7.308.30pm. email to book or for further info wellnessyoga332@gmail.com

More events on www.sussexlocal.net - please contact event organisers to check for changes

Win Uvas Frescas skincare based beauty business

WIN FoamingCleanser

Founder, Melanie Law has been involved in Organics for more than 20 years, driven by her passion for the importance of living a chemical free lifestyle and to help others understand organics, she launched ‘Officially Organic’ in Arundel. Choosing organic skincare is an easy step to reducing toxic chemicals which are often the cause of allergic reactions (at the least).

Almost a year ago they launched Uvas frescas, the first organic skincare brand made with organically grown grapes in store and online. This brand, based upon resveratrol one of the most powerful antioxidants that helps to reduce the cellular ageing of the skin has exceeded all expectations. We currently stock 15 products in this range to include skincare, products for the body, an irresistible Eau De Parfum and their bestselling plastic free solid haircare range. They have further introduced a comprehensive range of organic make-up and an essential range of organic products for Baby, where there should be no compromise on harmful chemicals.

WIN Anti-Ageing / Moisturising Cream

The ultimate Moisturiser and a best seller. This regenerating cream leaves skin hydrated and radiant. Rich in Organic Grape Seed Oil, Resveratrol, Omega 6 and Vitamin E this light, soft textured smooths out wrinkles and improves the skins natural elasticity. Suitable for all skin types.

With organic Grape Extract, Aloe Vera and also Citronella, this Foaming Cleanser removes dirt, excess oil and pollution without exposing your skin to harmful and abrasive chemicals. The soft and airy antioxidant foam provides a gentle yet deep clean of your skin leaving your skin feeling soft and fresh. Suitable for all skin Win Officially Organic

Sussex Walks - May 2022

These walks are supported by Sussex Ramblers & Chichester District Council and are led by volunteers. If the weather is poor the walk may be cancelled.

IMPORTANT: Sussex Ramblers - See: www.ramblers.org.uk

IMPORTANT: You must pre-book before the walk on the Chichester District Council Website or call 01243 521041 www.chichester.gov.uk/heartsmart You must not attend these walks if you develop any of the symptoms of Coronavirus or come into close contact with someone who has tested positive for Coronavirus.

Sussex Ramblers

Wed 4th 10:00 A Circular Walk from Westbourne Moderate 8 miles Hollybank Woods, Sussex Border Path, Woodmancote, Bluebell Woods. Undulating but mostly flat Meet: Westbourne, Redlands Lane Car Park, PO10 7GE Margaret H 07759 987285

Wed 11th 10:00am Around Hayling Island Leisurely 7.5 miles A flat walk round South Hayling to east coast, along the sea front and return via the Billy Line trail Meet: St Mary's Road, Hayling Car Park, PO11 9FE Carol G 07789 082549

Sun 15th 09:30am From Hollybank Lane Moderate 12 miles Southleigh Forest, Stansted Forest, Broadreed Farm, Lordington Meet: Emsworth, top of Hollybank Lane, PO10 7UL Sally 07906 094561

Chichester District Council

Tue 3rd 10.30am South Downs Way

L: Jane 3 hrs 6.5 miles A hilly walk with lovely downland views, including a walk through Amberley village along the Arun Meet: Amberley Station/Amberley Museum Car Park

Thurs 5th 10.30am Around Bignor L: Simon 2hr 3.5 miles Meet: Bignor Roman Villa

Sun 8th 2pm Selsey Seal Sculptures Stroll L: Debbie 2 hours 4 miles A flat circular stroll. Car park charge of £1.70 and the opportunity to buy an ice cream and/or drink Meet: Marine car park, Selsey

Mon 9th 10.30am 20th Anniversary Walls Walk L: Andrew 1hr 30 mins 3 miles Followed by celebratory tea and cake at the District Council to celebrate 20 years of the Heart Smart Walks. Bookings will open 3 weeks before the event. Limited spaces. Meet: The Johns Keat seat in Eastgate Square, outside Charlie Harpers. Fri 13th 10.30am Arundel Park L: Andrew 4 miles 2 hours Through the Park to Offham, and the Arun riverbank Meet: Swanbourne Lake Lodge

Sat 14th 10.15am Graylingwell

L: Sarah 1.25 miles 40 mins

A flat walk at a gentle pace, enjoying the history of Graylingwell Park and surrounding areas Meet: Outside the Pavilion glass building looking onto Havenstoke Park

Tue 17th 10.30am Fairmile Bottom

L: Peter B 2.5 hrs 4.5 miles Circular walk through the Downland nature reserve towards Arundel Meet: Park alongside the A29 soon after the Madehurst turn Sun 22nd 10.30am Binsted Woods

L: Dominic 2-2.5 hrs 4 miles Meet: Walberton Village Hall car park

Wed 25th 10.30am River Arun to The Stokes

L: Alison 2.5 hrs 4.8 miles

A lovely walk along lanes and through woods via the villages of North and South Stoke. Meet: Amberley Station Car Park, BN18 9LR

Fri 27th 10.30am Bignor Hill

L: Andrew 2 hours 3 miles Walk along South Downs Way, return via Barkhale Wood Meet: Bignor Hill National Trust Car Park, up a steep potholed road

Tue 31st 10.30am South Down Way

L: Jane 4 hours 8 miles This is a longer walk with lovely downland, river and village scenery. Meet: Amberley Station Car Park BN18 9LR

Easy ways to create a calorie deficit

By Heather Smith

In November’s issue, I discussed factors which can influence the energy our bodies use, and we can make many of the factors work in your favour!

I am going to give you action points. By increasing the energy our body needs to stand still, and decreasing the energy we take in without starving ourselves, we can make losing weight a bit easier. There are two sides to a calorie deficit. The calories we eat and the ones we use. Let’s look at both.

Ways to increase the calories our body uses

- Increasing Exercise

Exercise burns calories, either a structured workout or using the stairs, parking further away or getting up from your chair more often. It’s not always a case of ‘the harder the better’.

- Increasing Muscle

This will increase your daily energy requirement and help create a natural calorie deficit.

- Eat More Protein

Protein needs energy to be digested, by replacing some calories with protein calories, you're creating

an extra calorie deficit without reducing intake. Ways to decrease the calories we eat

- Increasing Fibre

Filling up with low calorie vegetables is a great way to feel satisfied with fewer calories, not to mention that being topped up on nutrients reduces food cravings too.

- Eat More Protein

Eating enough protein will help you reduce your caloric intake naturally.

- Eat Slowly

It takes time for the ‘I’m full’ signal to be created, and the faster you eat, the easier it is to go beyond what your body needs.

- Look after your Lifestyle

Work on your sleep quality and duration, and learn how to manage stress, in order to reduce food cravings and hormonal fluctuations. www.fitbiztraining.co.uk

Health and wellbeing benefits of gardens

Kate Harrison West Sussex National Garden Scheme Publicity Officer

How a garden benefits physical and mental health Studies show spending time in a garden can reduce blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol.

In winter time, walking around a garden can give you a sense of peace. In Spring, the first sight of developing buds and bulbs can fill you with anticipation and joy. Gardens provide space for a break from the stress of everyday life, trees, plants, bird songs and water are easy on the senses and can bring stress levels down.

Gardens enable you to be more active. Being more active is associated with better physical and mental health, including reduced risks of cancer, heart disease and depression.

Gardens provide socialising and relationship building opportunities with neighbours. Opening your garden for the NGS is a great way to show off your hard work and make new friends.

Visiting an NGS open garden in 2023

As we move into Winter, we may be reflecting upon the end of this year and moving towards 2023.

It's often a time to think about changes we would like to make to become better versions of ourselves and how we can achieve this.

If you would like to transform an area of your life and set some achievable goals, I can help you. Why not contact me to arrange a free consultation?

Not everyone has a garden. However, visiting someone else’s can provide all these benefits. A garden visit can lift spirits and help you feel connected. Volunteering at an allotment or community garden can also provide that sense of wellbeing. In 2023 you can find links to all the NGS gardens opening in West Sussex on the Sussex Local Website, starting with Snowdrop Gardens in January. Some local gardens will also be featured in Sussex Local Magazines. Raising funds for charity and community Founded in 1927 by the Queen’s Nursing Institute to raise funds for community nursing. Every ticket bought, garden visited and cake/cup of tea savoured translates into millions of pounds in donations to nursing and health charities, garden charities and community projects. For more information on the NGS and gardening benefits, visit ngs.org.uk. You can also pick up a free copy of the Sussex National Garden Scheme Booklet from local outlets from February. www.catalystcoaching.net

In Your Garden

Monthly gardening ideas & tasks

by Andrew Staib of Glorious Gardens

Four Dimensional Design for your garden

A garden has many more dimensions than we could possibly fathom. We are finding out more and more about the intricate communication systems trees have developed with their roots to other trees, seeds that make the ground infertile for other rival plants, colonies of insects with complex social systems, fungi that transform debris in different ways. Our gardens are little microcosms that exhibit all these details and more. Time is an extra dimension - how plants will perform over time, what plants will die out after a few years, which ones need to seed each year to keep the species alive, what pruning is needed for particular types of trees knowing the way in which they grow and how you want them to look. We are involved in a shifting, flowing 4-D sculpture. If you take a walk in nature you will realise that plant life tries to occupy all the different layers of space. From tall trees to a canopy of small trees underneath, to shrubs then ground cover, bulbs and climbers. Different plants survive on different levels depending on their light requirements and due to other factors such as wind, soil stability and ability to grow next to different species. The result is powerful and achieves a complexity that most urban gardens lack.

Of course in many ways gardens are simplifications of nature, bringing out the essential elements whilst allowing for more functional human spaces as well as ease of maintenance.Yet it is possible to bring some of that rich ‘wovenness’ into the smallest of gardens and the results will give you a deeper satisfaction and more four dimensional beauty. So if there are gaps in your beds or just one or two layers going on compared with the eight I have mentioned below, you can notice what is missing and plan to enrich your layering for next year!

Trees

Choose your trees carefully. Often I arrive at a client’s garden and there is either one massive tree that dominates the rest of the garden space

or there is a lack of trees. People sometimes assume that planting trees will create too much shade but if your garden is small/medium, well positioned trees with a delicate and spacious leaf and branch character can create a canopy that will give your garden a sense of height, enclosure and intimacy.

Some trees for the smaller gardens are Amelenchier lamarki, Weeping Birch, Malus, Sorbus, Viburnum Tinus, Cercis, Albezia and Rhus. All of these trees will give your garden a lovely sense of breadth without a tree surgeon being called in every year.

Taller Shrubs

We will be looking at shrub combination in a future article, but one can start thinking of shrubs in a more complex way.

Underneath the tree layer one can plant a layer which I call Tall Shrubs. These plants can contribute lots of height when needed but can also be pruned severely each year depending on the plan you have for the shapes in your garden. Some of them can be also be developed as multi stemmed plants.

Some are Sambucus ‘Sutherland’s Gold’ and Sambucus ‘Black Lace’, Philadelphus, Forsythia, some of the taller Cornus, Ceanothus, Fatsia, most of the the Pittisporums and the different types of Laurel.

They are the aesthetic bridge between taller trees and the rest of the garden creating a more natural context for the smaller perennial beds and lawn.

MalusTree

Smaller Shrubs

Smaller shrubs can then be chosen that will tend to give longer periods of colour and fit snuggly under the ‘umbrellas’ of the taller trees and shrubs. Some interesting shrubs are: Rosa rugosa, Teucrium fruticans, Japanese Quince, most of the Hebes, Hydrangeas, Cistis, Pittisporum ‘Tom Thumb’ and the Choysia range. Lavatera ‘Barsley Baby’, Mahonia Soft Caress, the smaller Phormiums and variegated Euonymous.

Ground Cover

Ground cover can be used as the ‘glue’ that holds all the different layers together. Not only can you plant these in large ribbons and drifts to give your border a sense of flow and unity but they solve the practical job of suppressing the weeds whilst the trees are establishing themselves.

Some tried and tested ground covers that I like are the smaller height Geraniums, Sedums, Chaerophyllum ‘Roseum’, White Bay Willow Herb and Persicaria. Grasses can also be used here, with dotted planting of Pennesetum Fairy Tails.

Smaller Ground Cover

The smaller ground covers tend to be at the front of borders where they won’t be swamped by the

bigger plants. Some nice examples are: Pachysandra, Ajuga, Brunnera, Galium odoratum, Epimedium, Bergenias, Lilly of the Valley and Periwinkle.

Climbers

It is surprising how many gardens I visit and see unsightly spaces that a well chosen climber could easily transform.

Climbers hide fences, can shoot up trees like rambling roses or drop languidly down from shed roofs or pergolas. They are a first choice for many an unsightly wall or tool shed and with their exuberant need to spread out can give your garden a new dimension of space.

More unusual climbers are Akebia, Campsis, Berberidopsis coralline and Solanum.

Bulbs

The bulb range is enormous. Some come out before the trees have come into leaf to grab the early sunlight when they can, others push through other plant life tenaciously. As I have written in previous articles plan your bulbs with the months of the year in mind and you can have bright splashes of colour almost all year.

I would like to include another dimension to designing you garden with layers - and that is what is called ‘Window Plants’ . These are plants that even though some are quite tall they can be planted in the middle or even the front of a bed and you can see through their spacious foliage to other plants.

Examples of these - and please look them up as they have a great ethereal feeling, are Sanguisorba ‘ Pink Elephant’, Dierama, Qaura, Molinia Tranparent and Molinia ‘Karl Foestar’, Allium Sphaerocephalon and the more commonly known Verbena Bonsariensis and Stips gigantia.

See what is performing well and see where you can add extra depth.

January tasks

• Start to force your Rhubarb by placing as big a pot as you can find over the heads.

• Sow in your greenhouse all sorts of vegetables ready to be transplanted in Spring into your plot.

• The biggest jobs are the pruning of deciduous plants like Roses, Wysteria and fruit trees.

• The best place to go to learn proper pruning methods is a professional gardener, the RHS Pruning Manuel or Youtube! If you type in “Pruning a small apple tree” you will get all sorts of well meaning gardeners showing you what they do. Choose to listen to an expert though there are different options. Try RHS first. Also make sure the apple tree looks like your one as there are different types.

Tell us what matters to you and we’ll listen. We want to know how we can make a difference when selling your home. We’ll bring opinions and ideas on top of solid advice, and we’ll provide friendly support alongside professional services. We’ve been here before and you can count on us to get results – we’ve proven it for over thirty years.

A garage full of opportunity

By Nick Roberts RMR Group

After the entire family has taken up every inch of space during the festive period, Christmas seems a distant memory. In hindsight one extra room with all the trimmings would have been ideal.

Life has changed, we’re at home more than ever before. But the idea on an extension could just be a step too far when you consider the national crisis about soaring utility bills and thermostat rationing. This is when your garage might just provide the cost-effective solution to adding an extra bedroom, office or whatever you need.

Let’s face it, we store a lot of junk in garages! And most would struggle to home a motorbike let alone a modern-day family car! They’re a convenient place for all bits and pieces for the ‘tomorrow’ that never comes. But, hidden within those three walls, lies a huge opportunity to expand your living area and create a transformative improvement to your property.

In most cases, garages already have the fundamental requirements to extend into but it’s important to know that there are far more details

than you might think when embarking on a conversion. Whilst planning permission isn’t usually required, it’s imperative that building regulations are met with regards to ventilation, fire safety, thermal performance and structural elements. Most garage conversions are straight forward but it’s not unusual for projects to turn complex when work gets underway, and the layers are stripped back to reveal what surprises are in stall to ruin your day. Our advice: instruct an architect or builder you can trust to – at the very leastassess your garage before starting the project. It may stop that swear jar from overflowing!

Unsurprisingly, demand for conversions is at an all-time high - they’re a brilliant way of transforming your home. They don’t encroach on our valued gardens, they cause minimum disruption as far as building work goes and they boost the value of your home. This is why they’ve become one of the most popular ways to gain space.

www.robertsmillerredshaw.com

Lifetime Mortgages

by Paul Davies, About Mortgages Ltd

Freeing up wealth tied up in your home

You may have heard Equity Release or Lifetime Mortgages mentioned more frequently recently. They can offer many benefits in later life and something you may not have considered before.

A lifetime mortgage is a loan secured against your property and doesn’t need to be repaid until you go into long-term care or on the event of your death. Lifetime mortgages free up wealth tied up in your home and you can continue living in it.

There is a variety of reasons we’ve seen enquiries increase; it could help purchase a holiday hideaway, provide home deposits for family, replacing lost income when retiring and a range of other needs. But the primary reason appears to be the amount of wealth tied up in a property.

How do Lifetime Mortgages work?

Lifetime Mortgages are a form of equity release. They enable you to borrow money secured against your property, but the property must be your main residence whilst retaining ownership of it.

In some circumstances, there might not be enough money left from the property sale to repay the mortgage, which could leave beneficiaries having to repay extra above the home’s value. Equity Release Council lenders offer no negative equity guarantee which ensures your beneficiaries never have to pay back more than your home’s value. Depending on the lender and the mortgage product, you can ring-fence part of the value of the property as an inheritance for your beneficiaries.

Different types of Lifetime Mortgages

The two primary types of lifetime mortgages:

• Interest roll-up mortgage

• Interest-paying mortgage

It’s important to understand the difference in these Lifetime Mortgages before applying. Ensure any discussions about later life finance schemes are provided by an FCA regulated adviser.

About Mortgages Ltd specialise in mortgages, lifetime mortgages, financial protection contact: 01403 283928 / www.aboutmortgages.co.uk

The Big Garden Birdwatch

By Rob Yarham, RSPB Pagham & Medmerry

Now the tree and tinsel have come down and we’ve all had just about as many mince pies as the human frame can stand, everyone’s attention turns towards the New Year and making resolutions – getting healthier and doing good coming top of many people’s lists. And perhaps spending more time with nature and helping wildlife might be among your resolutions, too. On a cold, damp morning in January, there’s no better way to do all of those than to curl up with a hot drink indoors and watch the birds in our gardens. It sounds appealing, doesn’t it? But how can it possibly be healthy for you and also help nature?

You may have seen just some of the news headlines this year saying that many wild species –including lots of the UK’s birds – need our help. In 2020, the RSPB’s State of the UK’s Birds report highlighted the decline of many birds, including those now featuring on the UK’s ‘Red List’ of rare and threatened birds. Overall, it has been estimated that there were 19 million fewer pairs of native breeding birds in 2017 compared to 1966. And this includes some of the birds we think of as the most common. For instance, research tells us that we have lost around 10.7 million pairs of house sparrows during that period – that’s the largest decline of any UK species. Starlings, too, which we also think of as a very common bird, have suffered huge losses – we have about 9.7 million fewer pairs than we did in the late 1960s. But how do we know how various bird species are doing? This is where the Great British public come in – we have lots of keen citizen scientists who spend much of their free time watching and counting birds, and not just on RSPB reserves. And you can help, too. Every year for the past 43 years, people have spent just an hour on the last weekend in January counting the birds that appear in their garden. The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch has now become the world’s largest wildlife survey and gives RSPB scientists an important, annual snapshot of how our garden birds are doing. In 2022, nearly 700,000 people across the UK joined in, counting a grand total of over 11 million birds! Last year, in spite of its

recent declines, the house sparrow was at the top of the rankings as the most commonly seen garden bird with more than 1.7 million recorded sightings throughout the weekend. Blue tits and starlings were second and third, respectively. Which shows how important our gardens have become for these birds.

To join in, simply go to the RSPB website address at the bottom of this article, register for the Big Garden Birdwatch and follow the instructions. For just one hour on the weekend of 2729 January 2023, watch and count the birds in your garden, or in your local park. Then go to the RSPB website to tell us what you’ve seen, even if you haven’t seen anything at all! All your records will be analysed to help us understand how our birds are doing.

But how does all of this give your health a boost? Well, you can also give your garden birds a helping hand by getting outdoors and making your garden a more wildlife-friendly space – by planting and maintaining shrubs they can roost and nest in, providing plants and flowers to encourage the insects they eat – and maybe even dig a pond, if you have the space. All that activity is sure to do you some physical good! And don’t forget to make sure the birds also have plenty of fresh food and water through the winter – especially when it’s cold. You can find out how to make your garden wildlife-friendly and how to feed your birds on the RSPB website, too.

Finally, after all that, just spending time watching birds has been proven to help our mental health – researchers have found that people’s mental wellbeing improves when they see or hear birds, so taking part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch might be just the thing to help you get started on some of those New Year resolutions!

Register to take part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and learn all about gardening for and feeding birds on our website. And we can help you to identify garden birds on one of our guided walks this month: www.events.rspb.org.uk/ paghamharbour or call 01243 641508. www.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour

Credit: Ben Andrew

Midhurst Rother College

Fundraising charity events

Charity is always at the heart of MRC with numerous fundraisings and events throughout the academic year. Back in October, students supported Wear Something Yellow Day, raising funds for the Young Minds charity.

At the recent fireworks event a Community Bar raised almost £700, which has been divided between the MRC Parents Association and the Midhurst Community, who have used their share to purchase further large red baubles for the street decorations and presents for Santa’s Grotto at the Midhurst Street Party.

Children In Need this year at MRC, saw fun events throughout the week and raised in excess of £1400.

The Christmas Foodbank Collection gathered not just a vast amount food and household goods but an array of gifts and seasonal extras including

books, games, socks, hats, gloves and a huge number of hot water bottles, which will be added to the Christmas Foodbank boxes.

The Sixth Form leadership team in charge of charity events. These events also form part of the House challenges at the College, with each of the 4 Houses choosing their own charity. Monies raised are divided equally between the 4 House charities (Save the Children, Wellspring, Canine Partners and RSPCA) to fairly reflect the contribution all students make to events. The chosen charities this year are Austen Housethe Red Cross, Kipling House – Fareshare, Tennyson House- Stonepillow and Woolf HouseMacmillan Cancer Support.

2022 arrived with its own challenges and staff and students through the year have faced these challenges head on and strived to always do their best and uphold the College values of respect, happiness and achievement. www.mrc-academy.org

Midhurst C of E Primary School

Last month, our Year 5 and 6 children attended the annual Rother Valley hockey tournament. We had practised fiercely, with a great deal of commitment since the beginning of October in our weekly hockey club. Mr Ind selected two strong teams to play in the tournament, which both played well. Midhurst II’s finished 10th of the 15 teams. Midhurst I’s managed to reach the final against Camelsdale, and in a hardfought and high-quality final we played very well,

winning 1-0 and qualifying for the next inter-schools’ round at The Weald in Billingshurst. A massive well done to all of our hockey players from both squads, we could not have won the tournament without each other to play with and practise against. Meanwhile, our cross-country running team have enjoyed success in a cross-country event at Conifers school. The course was challenging with lots of mud, long grass, a log jump and a stream jump and the weather made it even tougher! All the children who took part performed brilliantly, showing real grit and determination. They also showed a super team spirit, encouraging each other and celebrating successes. We had 4 individual race winners; and we won 2 of the team events; the Year 3 girl’s race and the Year 5 girl’s race. We now look forward to the next race in February.

www.midhurst-primary-school.co.uk

New Headteacher announcement

Slindon College’s first female Headteacher

Heading up a highly qualified team

Joining Slindon College in 2016, first as an Assistant SENCo and Specialist Dyslexia teacher (Level 5 Dyslexia / SpLD) and then SENCo, Mrs Vlahodimou completed her NPQH in 2021. Her extensive knowledge of educating pupils who struggle to fulfil their potential in mainstream environments is motivated by her own personal experiences of education.

When she was at school she was told that she was not academic enough and not very good with languages. This led Mrs Vlahodimou to dedicate her teaching career to working with children to remove barriers to their learning. Most recently she has had a very successful track record as Acting Headteacher at Slindon College. These experiences shone through in the recruitment process amongst a strong field of candidates. Becoming the first female Headteacher in the College’s 50 year history, Mrs Vlahodimou heads up a highly qualified team in a supportive and calm setting which enables pupils to engage in a learning style that is accessible to them.

Over 10 years experience in special education

Following a thorough and competitive recruitment and selection process the new Headteacher of Slindon College has been announced as it looks forward to further growth in Academic Year 2022/23 and beyond.

Slindon College Board of Governors announce Mrs Sotiria Vlahodimou as the new permanent head of the College with immediate effect. Mrs Vlahodimou (BSc, MSc, Post. Grad. Diploma, PGCE, NASENCO, NPQH) has over 10 years of experience in special education in both the mainstream and independent sectors. She studied for her first degree in Medical Microbiology at the University of Surrey and gained her MSc and Post. Grad. Diploma whilst working full time. Following a successful career in paediatric vaccines in the Pharmaceutical Industry she gained a PGCE from the University of Chichester. Mrs Vlahodimou worked in an outstanding West Sussex special school where she refined her own pedagogy in helping children enjoy and achieve in education and gained her SENCo qualification (NASENCo).

Mrs Sotiria Vlahodimou, Headteacher, said: “I feel deeply honoured to be able to lead Slindon College going forward and I am very excited about the future. You can be assured that as Headteacher, I will strive to create the best education for each pupil here by nurturing their happiness and self-confidence as learners.”

Independent day and boarding school for boys Slindon College is a day and boarding school for boys aged 8-18. If you’d like to find out more about how Slindon College could help your child or to make an enquiry, contact the college or visit www.slindoncollege.co.uk.

Slindon College holds Open Mornings in September and March. To register for an upcoming one, visit their website, call: 01243 814320 or email: registrar@slindoncollege.co.uk.

Headteacher Mrs Sotiria Vlahodimou

The story of: St. Andrew’s church Didling

y local author & artist David Johnston - Part 1

When signs of serious decay were discovered in the churches of both Elsted and Treyford, a large new church of St Peter was built, halfway between the two villages in 1849. It was by all accounts, a very fine building with a spire 120 feet (36.58 metres) in height. With the completion of this magnificent ‘Cathedral of the Downs’ the parishioners from Elsted, Treyford and Didling were obliged to attend the services – they had, in those days, little option but obey the wishes of the builders; the Lord of the Manor. Consequently, St Andrew’s of Didling, which was, up until then, in a good state of repair, having been regularly used by its faithful congregation, eventually, fell into dereliction. This ruinous condition was not helped by a lighting strike in 1878; the violence of which, opened the roof to the elements, (a scorched black beam can still be seen,) and the ensuing weather took its toll. The parishioners looked helplessly on at this slow deterioration, the site of which raised feelings so high, that with true Sussex doggedness, they refused to attend any further services at the ‘Cathedral of the Downs;’ insisting instead to worship once again at their beloved little church, St Andrew’s. With this decision, the parish made sporadic efforts to fully repair the tiny sanctuary. But, with only two farm houses and nine labourers cottages from which to draw support, the raising of sufficient funds to restore the neglected building was never possible: that is, up until the arrival in 1932, of the newly appointed Rector of Elsted, Treyford and Didling: the Rev. William W. Whistler.

The good vicar it seems took up the campaign with an apparent zeal; for he soon contacted –

The Rev. A.A. Evans, vicar of East Dean and Friston – author of several Sussex books –with a purpose of recruiting this Sussex writer to broaden the appeal. The Rev. A.A. Evans applauded the idea, and promptly penned an informative article on the history of the church, proclaiming too, the importance of the building to the county: this work ultimately featured in the ‘Sussex County Magazine’ – along with a plea for donations. “Didling church is in trouble. The little sanctuary of the lonely Downside is in danger. The walls are strong and enduring, but not the heavy roofing and timbering of the beams, and king-post and rafters. These have grown tired of their job and are stooping like weary old men. The architect who has made a thorough examination says that the bulging and sagging is so considerable that the church may suddenly become a wreck unless seen to at once. – I hope everyone who reads these lines will send an offering to the Rector, the Rev. Webster W. Whistler, Elsted, and help him and the dear little church, in a great anxiety.” Gifts poured in and this ancient religious building was finally saved for the nation: the roof was fully repaired: though not entirely free from damage by the natural elements. For the old yew tree that stands in the churchyard, being of great age, had by the 1940’s, spread its branches out to such an extent that they touched the gable end, and during strong gales dislodged the tiles. And so it was that the need to trump up sufficient funds to make good the damage prompted a fresh drive to attract donations. The general opinion amongst the parsons flock was that, rather than rely on faithful parishioners, the goodwill of Christians residing beyond the bounds of the parish must be attracted. Several schemes were put forward, the eager conspirers agreeing once and for all, that an article must be published to inform the world that this tiny shepherd’s church, situated in such a geographically remote place, is so unique, that to visit it is a must. And what better way to do this, than with a reputedly true – Ghost Story?

Part 2 to follow next month.

David R.G. Johnston: Sussex author: photographer and Artist. www.davidjohnston.org.uk or email: johnston.david.rg@gmail.com

Didlingchurch

B

Storing your Classic Car this Winter

7 Tips from Toyota Master Technician Graham Bothamley

With rain lashing down and gales blowing Britain’s classic car owners are putting their cherished vehicles away for winter; but what are the pitfalls to avoid which can lead to heartbreak and big bills when you come to retrieve it next Spring?

Graham Bothamley has more than a hundred Toyota and Lexus vehicles in his care, from 1960s examples to new cars just delivered. Here are Graham’s top tips:

1. Put your car up on axle stands if possible, it really helps to keep it off the ground, especially to protect your tyres. If this isn’t possible pump your tyres up to the highest safe level you can.

2. Fit a “trickle charger” to the battery, ideally one which conditions as well as charges.

3. Clean your vehicle inside and out before storing, using a good-quality wax on the exterior. Invest in a car cover, ideally a breathable one.

4. Ensure the hand brake is left off. If the handbrake is applied the mechanism can seize during storage. However, it’s vital to make sure that the wheels are firmly “chocked” if you’re not using axle stands so that car doesn’t move.

5. Leave your windows slightly open to prevent condensation which can damage upholstery and other surfaces, and allow mould to breed. Remember to remove anything in the vehicle which could rot or cause smells.

6. Ensure the vehicle’s antifreeze level is at the recommended maximum – enough to prevent engine freezing.

7. Finally, consider placing a humane rodent trap close to the vehicle and check it every few days. It’s amazing how much damage one little mouse can cause if it decides to build a nest in your engine or wheel arches and feast on your wiring!

Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Light in calories yet richly flavoured & great for all sorts of occasions

Ingredients - Serves 4 Cook time: 50 minutes

• 1 cooked chicken (or turkey) carcass plus 1 cooked chicken breast or fillet

• 1tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped & 2 large sprigs parsley

• Juice and grated rind 1 lemon

• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2-3tbsp dry sherry or dry white wine

• 175g button mushrooms, finely sliced

Method

1. Place carcass in roasting tin, broken up into 2 or 3 pieces,roastfor15minsat200C/400F/gasMark6.

2. Heat the oil in large saucepan and fry the onion and garlic until translucent and softening but not coloured. Add parsley stalks, lemon rind and half the juice, the sauce, sherry/wine and seasoning.

3. Add the roasted carcass and about 1 litre/2¼ pints water to cover. Cover and bring to the boil. Simmer for about 30 minutes or until the stock is well flavoured and there is at least 750mls/1¼ pints liquid left.

4. Strain the stock through a clean muslin cloth. Return liquid to the pan, add the sliced mushrooms, the rest of the lemon juice, the chopped cooked chicken, and half the parsley, chopped. Bring to the boil and simmer for 2-3 mins.

5. Season to taste and sprinkle on the remaining parsley before serving with Melba toast or fresh granary bread. Tip: A little glug of good sherry will not go amiss!!

Cookery Courses for all Why not give a Voucher for the perfect gift?

Contact Alex 01243 532240 www.cookwithalex.co.uk

Sussex Nightstop

Community-based response to homelessness by Lynn Smith

Brighton and Hove has one of the highest rates of rough sleeping in England, with numbers increasing since 2010. A 2021 Shelter report cited Brighton and Hove as the second highest ranked local authority outside of London, with 1 in 78 people in the City experiencing homelessness. Additionally, polling conducted by ComRes, in 2017, suggested that two-fifths of 16-25-year-olds in the UK have sofa-surfed at one time because they had nowhere else to live and that one in ten of these young people did so for more than a month in total.

Sussex Nightstop, Executive Director, Alison Marino tells me, was founded in 2009: “By a handful of determined locals who were moved and motivated by the visible experience of young people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping in Brighton and Hove.

“Local residents motivated to make a practical difference”

“Local residents became increasingly aware of the number of young people they saw sleeping rough in the City, “And wondering how they might make use of the assets they held within their spare rooms they looked further afield to see how other communities were responding and discovered the Nightstop model.”

Nightstop originated in 1985 in Leeds, where local church groups responded to the problem of young people rough sleeping through homebased hosting. The first formal Nightstop service launched in 1987 and Sussex Nightstop is now one of over 33 Nightstop services across the UK, accredited by the youth homelessness charity DePaul Uk, and operating across the Brighton and Hove area.

Providing practical solutions through collaboration and kindness

Nightstop, Alison says, is a community-based response to homelessness. “We believe that through collaboration and kindness, people power can provide practical solutions with big impact. Keeping young people safe from the very real and known dangers whilst providing them with housing advice, wrap-around support and kindness provides the very best chance for a young person

to flourish and reach their potential.” The model has a reassuring success rate, “Over 75 per cent of young people who stay with Sussex Nightstop go on to achieve a safer place to call home – our ultimate goal.”

The concept behind Night stop is, Alison explains, simple. People see the injustice of roughsleeping and homelessness and they want to respond. “We facilitate that by recruiting and training them to open up their spare rooms on a nightly basis and in a safe way to young people aged 16-24 years experiencing homelessness.”

Every young person who stays with Nightstop is carefully appraised and vetted by the charity’s small team of highly skilled staff, ensuring that Nightstop is the best place for that young person, and working closely with them during their stay ensuring they have access to, “The advice and support they need to make a positive next step in relation to their housing.”

‘’I have come such a long way since finding Nightstop. We have been on such an amazing journey together, I have had such a positive experience.” – a young Sussex Nightstop Guest.

Currently Nightstop has a pool of seventeen host households, all of whom are supported by a 247, on-call service. Alison describes the hosts as, “The lifeblood of what we do. Their kindness, freely offered at a point of crisis, often has a profound impact on young people.”

Alison explains that all of Sussex Nightstop’s volunteers undergo a robust recruitment process. Volunteer hosts will undertake interviews and home checks, will undergo Enhanced DBS checks and be trained in the policies and

procedures of the charity’s Host Handbook, covering an overview of homelessness and the experiences of young people, the importance of communications, hosting boundaries, safe hosting measures and safeguarding.

“Through their roles as volunteer hosts, on-call volunteers, community champions, business ambassadors, trainers and trustees they bring huge breadth and depth to the work that we do. Having the broadest and most inclusive representation across our volunteer and staff team is what we aspire to.”

“Young people need Nightstop and they need us for longer”

Which brings us to one of the greatest challenges facing Sussex Nighstop – a need to re-grow its host volunteer pool, following a reduction in numbers thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst at the same time cost of living increases and steep rent rises leave young people with few options and a greater demand for Sussex Nightstop’s services.

The charity is seeking new hosts particularly, but not exclusively, in the Brighton and Hove area, people willing to offer their spare room for short nightly stays, ranging from four to seven nights

in a row. Although sometimes only one night is needed. Nightstop welcomes all people, regardless of colour, ethnicity, race, faith, gender, sexuality or ability. Although, Alison points out that the service is “Disproportionately used by young people of colour - being 60 per cent of our placements last year. We would like our host pool to reflect this and particularly welcome applications from hosts of colour.”

Alison summarises the qualities sought in volunteers: “The ability to treat everyone with dignity and respect, without judgement and to be able to volunteer within the boundaries of the scheme, with a commitment to the safeguarding and welfare of young people. No formal qualifications

Nightstopteam

are required but strong communication skills, patience, understanding and commitment are all sought after.”

In addition to the 49-strong volunteer team the charity has a paid team, of 27 full time equivalent staff, “Governed and supported by a highly experienced and professional board comprising six Trustees.”

“We move out of Covid into an ever-challenging funding environment”

Alison Marino tells me that Sussex Nightstop is funded through a range of income streams. “We enjoy support from the local authority, the fundraising of schools, churches and other community groups and are enthusiastically supported by local businesses who understand clearly the vital contribution that they can make to the problem of homelessness facing young people living in the community in which they operate.”

Which brings us to the charity’s other challenge: Post-COVID, Alison explains that Sussex Nightstop faces an ever-challenging funding environment.

“Building on the generosity of our varied supporters to date we are looking to grow that supporter base and welcome the opportunity to

speak and collaborate with businesses and community groups who would like to make a material difference to the lives of young people experiencing homelessness. “

Fund raising activities are therefore of vital importance and the charity is building on the success of its 2019 ‘Sleep Safe’ campaign, encouraging people to share on social media to generate new donor support, and increase collaboration with local businesses. Alison Marino says, “We are really excited about our Autumn Tryathlon event on 16 September. With volleyball, a quiz and baking contest there is something for everyone and we are inviting businesses to join us on the day for a lot of fun.”

“Sussex Nightstop.” Alison concludes, “welcomes the generous support of all members of the community. By following and sharing our socials you help us to reach new and different audiences that can get behind our cause.”

Contacts: Liz Wakefield – Volunteer enquiries, Tryathlon and Business enquiries. Call 07887 492872 or email liz.wakefield@sussexnightstop.org.uk www.sussexnightstop.org.uk

Sussex Snippets

Charity & Community news from across the counties

Discover your local library!

West Sussex Libraries have asked us to remind readers about all the things your local library can offer:

• Free, warm welcoming spaces for everyone

• Computers for people to use

• Free Wi-fi in every library

• Regular free activities – children’s rhyme times & story times, knit and natter sessions, reading groups, board games and jigsaws

• Digital volunteers to help people get online if you are nervous or new to the internet

• Take home toys – children can take home up to three toy bags (for up to three weeks, with no late fees!)

• Newspapers and magazines

• Books for people wanting to start new hobbies, learn a language and more

They also offer Home Library Direct for people who are unable to visit personally. Lastly they are always on the lookout for more volunteers. www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries.

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne is inviting residents to provide their thoughts on policing priorities in a survey about police funding through council tax. You can provide your views on potential increases and tell Katy what you want the police to focus on. The short online survey is at www.sussex-pcc.gov.uk.

A new initiative from the West Sussex Waste Partnership (West Sussex and District/Borough councils). is aiming to improve recycling rates in students aged 15-24. The partnership is working with the University of Chichester and the Chichester College Group (at Brinsbury, Chichester, Crawley, Haywards Heath, and Worthing).

Concern about children’s mental health and the negative messages in children's media has led two dads to launch a fun and satirical podcast and magazine aimed at promoting kindness and mental resilience in children. Martin Spinelli is a professor at the University of Sussex while Lance Dann teaches at the University of Brighton. Their podcast is called The Rez and it has also just been accredited to be taught in schools as part of the PSHE curriculum. www.jointherez.com

South Downs MP Andrew Griffith has made the views of his constituents known in his response to the new routes published by the Rampion 2 proposed windfarm, calling it a “cable motorway” that would “leave a scar on the South Downs”. Andrew says that “vast swathes of delicate chalkland in the South Downs will be trenched” to accommodate the cables and accompanying access roads which will run from Climping beach through to a new substation at Cowfold, via Storrington and Washington. Rampion say that all disturbed land will be restored after the work is completed. See the routes at www.rampion2.com/consultation-2022.

A fresh and redesigned website has been launched by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust to support those living with mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity conditions. www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk.

West Sussex-landscaper Paul Greenyer is baring all for the horticultural charity, Perennial, in its ‘Naked Grubby Gardener’s calendar” for 2023. Proceeds are going towards its work helping people from the horticultural industry to improve their financial and mental well-being. The calendar is available to purchase online at www.perennial.org.uk.

Potholes are a big source of frustration for all road users, and in the six months from April 2022 West Sussex Highways say approximately 22,000 were filled. They are also taking a holistic approach to the condition of our roads, with whole roads and larger sections completely resurfaced to make them more resilient to potholes, and “vastly reduce the need for smallscale, disruptive repairs”. You can report a pothole at www.westsussex.gov.uk or by phone to 01243 642105 if it is an immediate safety risk. The Sussex Sunday Walkers programme runs from October to March with walks usually 1216 miles long, starting and ending at the same car park, with a pub stop along the route. www.sussexsundaywalkers.org.uk

Charity & Community News

Fire Service awards

West

Sussex

Fire & Rescue Service celebr -ated the courage, selflessness and dedication of its staff at its annual Recognition and Achievement Awards Ceremony. Those honoured at Arundel Castle included serving firefighters, support staff and members of the public.

A total of 31 long service and good conduct medals were given to members of staff that have served within the fire and rescue service for 20 and 30 years, with medals being presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex, Lady Emma Barnard.

CRRC’s Rescue Pet of the Month

This month we would love to introduce you to a lovely pair of female rabbits called Hersheys and Reeses. These two sisters have been with us at The Centre since April as their owners had sepa-

rated and felt like they couldn’t provide them the life they deserved. These beautiful sisters are now one year old and would love to find their forever home together. They are both very friendly girls that love to explore and be active. They would be suitable to live with children as they are happy to be handled. As they are so young and active they would benefit from a home where they are provided with lots of things to keep them busy.

If you think you may be able to offer Hersheys and Reeses a loving home please give the centre a call on 01243 967111. www.crrc.co.uk.

Gardening talk

Jane Reeve of Manhood Wildlife Group will be giving a talk on "Wildlife in the Garden in a Time of Climate Change". Chichester Organic Gardening Society, January 30th, 7.30pm at Bassil Shippam Centre, St Pancras Chichester PO19 7LG.

Charity & Community News

Rotary photography competition

Chichester Rotary is organising a Young Photographic Competition for all schools and youth groups in the Chichester area. Last year's competition was very successful with around 40 entries. This year's entries are going to be displayed in the Graylingwell Chapel from the 14th January, for two weeks. They should get many people to see them there as the art centre has many visitors who come to meet friends and to go the cafe. This year’s subject is The Beauty of Architecture. The closing date for entries is 13th January. Information ghreed@btinternet.com.

Happy Chichester poet

"I have received an email from the Chair of the Friends of Chichester Hospitals (with an apology for the delay) saying that various folk, including volunteers in the shop, have read my delightful collection of poems - A Time of Reflectionand that they would be very happy to sell them in

trained as a nurse. The book provides an insightful commentary on the challenges of the last few years in verse and is available via the publisher Tim Saunders at: www.tsaunderspubs.weebly.com

Rotary clothes for Ukraine

A tremendous effort by the Rotary Club of Chichester Priory collecting 83 bags of warm clothing to be shipped to Ukraine as part of a programme initiated by our District. It was a joint effort between Rotarians, Butlins and Tangmere village residents, who not only donated clothes, but put in a phenomenal effort to sort and bag hundreds of items.

John Stephens and Eddie Townsend of the Priory club are seen delivering the bags to the area hub in Horsham and a huge thank you to Panther

Chichester’s Coat of Arms

By local historian Andrew Berriman

In my recently published book, ‘In Search of Chichester’**, I have written about some of the mysteries which surround aspects of the city’s past. One of these concerns the city’s Coat of Arms. It first appears on a 1570 charter, granted during the reign of Elizabeth I. This was one of the many such charters which gave various rights, powers and privileges to the city, in particular the regulation of trade by the merchant’s guild. The very first charter was in 1135. A later charter in 1226 led to the appointment of a Mayor.

On first appearance the coat of arms attached to the 1570 charter looks straightforward. It is in the form of a shield, which is divided into two parts by a horizontal line. Above the line is a rather elongated, emaciated lion with a splendid tail. This explains why today, on top of the Council House in North Street, also sits a friendly, sleepy, stone lion. Maybe it was there because the 2nd Duke of Richmond had subscribed most of the funds, the lion’s share in fact, for the new Council House in 1731, and he wanted to commemorate his favourite lioness, who had recently died. She had been one of the many wild animals kept in the Duke’s menagerie in underground vaulted tunnels, still extant, behind Goodwood House.

Below the line on the shield are fourteen ‘gutes de sang’, which is Old French for drops of blood. Actually, they more resemble pears. Just what these are supposed to signify remains a complete mystery. It has been suggested that they possibly reference the two Protestant martyrs, Thomas Iveson and Richard Hook, who were burnt to death in 1555 during the Marian Persecution, in the precincts of Chichester Cathedral, probably in the Vicars’ Close. Although this is at least a theory, and not necessarily implausible, there is no verification for it.

The original charter had 14 drops of blood, but has become a variable feast. If you look at the representation of the coat of arms above the Market House (1808) you will see 15 of them. On the very heavy cast-iron shields or crests which were fixed to the Cattle Market gates (1871) there were only 12. As for the mug presented by the city’s Mayor, Adolphus Ballard, to all local children to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee (1897), there are 15 of them. Take your pick. None have the ‘correct’ number. Woops.

We then come to another source of much controversy, that straight line on the original coat of arms. On both Victorian versions it was replaced by an indented, serrated line, possibly to reference Chichester’s nearness to the coast. This really infuriated Francis Steer, the formidable County Archivist. He was also the Maltravers Herald Extraordinary, a very big fish in the arcane world of heraldry, though I’ve no idea what he did. He was apoplectic about the altered crest. He demanded that the straight line be reinstated. So the Chichester City Council did its best.

It revised its letterheads, the badges on its dustcarts, on the Priory Park gates, and at the Cemetery. But what about the Market House coats of arms? Until then this had been plain, unadorned, stone, no paint at all. But no longer. Look at the shield closely. Despite the use of red paint, the indented line is still all too visible. Oh dear. Many thanks, by the way, to Alan Green of The Grumpium Museum for use of these images.

** ‘In Search of Chichester’, 192 pages, 204 illustrations, from Kim’s Bookshop, direct from andrew.berriman@gmail.com, £15, plus £3.50 p/p or call 01243 778477.

Chichester City Council

Speeding, Community Wardens and task force

Edited extracts from draft minutes of Community Affairs Committee meeting on 14th Nov 2022. Speeding around the City and Speed Indicator Devices - Speedwatch speeding statistics in the Sussex area included 7000 letters per month sent to drivers caught speeding and compliance rate over 12 month period of 93.2%, meaning only 6.8% of drivers were caught reoffending. Over 12 month period there were 702 road traffic collisions reported although not all speed related. Council SID in use by Speedwatch group in St Pancras. Discussions about creating additional groups in other areas of the city.

Community Wardens - Welfare remains a priority for Wardens and they started attending food bank sessions to make residents more aware of their presence. City Centre Wardens comments about alcohol related incidents declining and reduced incidences of graffiti. Noticeable increase in scams reported, particularly in relation to the Government’s fuel subsidies and other financial support mechanisms. Community Wardens were

Petworth Town Council

Extracts from October meeting

Edited extracts of draft minutes of the Petworth Town Council meeting held 20th October 2022. Finance and General Purposes Committee - Reported that the run rate on expenditure was at 52.2% however excluding the transfer of ear marked reserves, the run rate was at 49%, which was just under the assumed run rate of 50% for the time of year. Advised that the full year forecast displayed a surplus of £5,535 at the end of the financial year. Under seconded proposal it was unanimously resolved to set up a £10,000 1-year bond with Cambridge & Counties Bank. Council had an ear marked reserve of £8,000 to fund wall repairs at Rosemary Gardens. Open Spaces committee sought quotes for specification produced from numerous contractors but only one quote received. Contractor who submitted quote was specialist in the area and undertakes work for Leconfield Estate and National Trust. Under seconded proposal, it was unanimously resolved to instruct contractor to undertake wall repairs at Rosemary Gardens for £7,850.

trained as digital ambassadors able to provide advice to residents on safe online activity and spotting potential scams. Rate of increase in crime falling from 20% rise on the rolling year in April to 11% rise on the rolling year.

City Centre task force - Proposal for city centre task force with intention to bring together City Council, Chichester District Council, West Sussex County Council and Chichester BID to “tidy up” city centre by Easter 2023. Approval sought to undertake first stage with City Council’s Acting Property Manager. This stage would be a walk through city centre and side streets to undertake audit and list jobs needed to achieve task force aims. Intention to use volunteer groups to undertake work. Council was not being asked to commit significant resources but may supply materials for works. Agreed Council would participate in task force and Deputy Mayor, with Acting Property Manager, should proceed with first stage audit of city centre to feed in to task force activities. www.chichester.gov.uk

Winter Support and Resilience Planning - Reported working group had met and discussed how council could support residents over winter, particularly given the cost of living crisis. Discussed whether Council’s helpdesk be reinstated, whether a buddy system should be set up for residents to support each other, and that working group was liaising with local facilities to establish what their winter opening times would be.

Informed that Council’s winter plan could be developed to provide additional support to residents over winter. Council was recommended a Consultant to assist with writing a Resilience Plan.

Petworth Park Sports (PPS) – PPS’ compliance documents were under review. Council working to ensure PPS is well placed to maximise opportunities presented by recent refurbishment of pavilion. Food & beverage operation going well. New flower beds in front of pavilion highlighted by Britain in Bloom judges. Members informed PPS recently paid for 2nd half of financial year’s license of sports ground. www.petworth-tc.gov.uk

Dizzy’s Diary

Written by local author Ann Salmon

Dizzy is a Romanian street dog who was brought to England for a better life, which is all new and scary. It is a funny, sad and utterly bewildering tale of readjustment; and she is supported, or not, by Candy the resident collie. Dizzy has to come to terms with an apparently endless stream of friends and family who react to her in different ways, and cause her even more confusion.

Author Ann Salmon, has been interested in dogs since she was three and enticed a neighbour’s dachshund under the fence, and have owned, trained, worked (and occasionally won) and bred border collies for decades. Ann has done many activities with this breed, which has given her an opportunity to study them.

Ann Salmon resides in the village of Washington

trained as a nurse in London, but there wasn’t any part-time working for married women so eventually

did other things instead: running her own catering company, and helping set up a Pre-School Playgroup in the 1960s. Available to purchase from local Steyning bookshop www.steyningbookshop.co.uk or any Waterstones www.waterstones.com