AndrewGriffithMP

Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs

As we start the New Year, I wanted to update readers on progress on two issues of perennial local concern. Fibre-capable broadband improvements Whether you have returned to office or have adapted to spending more time working from home, faster broadband is an issue that affects everyone – especially in hard-to-reach rural areas like ours. As someone who struggled with a connection of less than 1Mb at my home for years, I know myself that access to a decent local download speed is something that has historically been a challenge. I’m therefore pleased that West Sussex has been selected by the Government to receive £128 million worth of broadband improvements, bringing fibre-capable broadband to 68,000 homes and businesses across our rural area – all starting this year. Already ‘gigabit broadband coverage’ – which is essentially the fastest broadband you can get in your home – is now at 55% which is genuinely a light speed away from what it used to be. Reducing the number of road accidents As we continue to endure the dark evenings and the cold and wet January weather, representing a rural community where everyone has to travel to access essential services, I worry about safety on our dangerous West Sussex roads. Local residents have no choice but to rely upon roads such as the A272, the A285, the A283 and the A27 and A29. Tragically, the latest figures I have obtained show that last year over 450 people have been killed or seriously injured on West Sussex’s roads – a frightening number in which each represents a personal or familial lifechanging tragedy. There is no single magic cure but a combination of, lower speed limits in towns and villages where they are appropriate, greater police presence and the right investment and maintenance on the roads themselves all have an important role to play. Andrew Griffith MP for Arundel & South Downs Andrew.Griffith.MP@parliament.uk www.andrewgriffithmp.com

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Unique furniture for your home & restoration classes coming soon!

Open since last October, Mill House Antiques makes an interesting addition to the Storrington High Street. Owner John Lewis started his antiques journey in the 80s as an apprentice in a Brighton

John with his labs workshop. John was one of 15 restorers and here he learnt his craft and developed a love of period pieces. An “antique” is defined as being over 100 years old and John’s knowledge of the different materials and production techniques favoured through the ages is impressive. His favourite period is Victorian; “They were the best at making furniture” says John, “solid pieces made by hand; modern furniture is all machine-made and glued together.” 90% of the furniture on sale in the shop has been restored by John. He seeks out interesting items which are good quality but need a bit of TLC to bring them back to their best. “People who buy antiques appreciate the time and effort which has gone into making them and are often looking for an individual piece which will enhance a particular area of their home”. John has a small workshop on-site at the shop and Left: Before a larger storage Above: After area and workshop in Pulborough. John, “The main workshop is in a lovely rural location with plenty of space and great natural light”. John told me he has plans to offer restoration workshops there in the Spring. “I want to pass on my skills, it’s important that we still have craftsmen, people who can repair old furniture so these lovely pieces can live on”. To register interest in a workshop place please call John on 01903 446783 or visit 42-44 High Street, Storrington, RH20 4DU

Mill House Antiques

Enhance your home with unique furniture for all budgets

Follow my passion for Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian furniture. Find that unique and practical piece for your home with prices to suit all budgets. I have over 30 years experience restoring antique furniture, the ultimate recycling ethos! Free parking outside. 42-44 High Street, Storrington RH20 4DU 07533 759606 or 01903 446783