Sussex Local - Findon - May 2018

May 2018

SUSSEX LOCAL

Findon - High Salvington - Salvington - Clapham - Patching

Local news and events through the door to 6,200 homes in this area every month

HOMELESS HELP WCHP support those in need in this area

HISTORY

The Muntham Boar

WIN!

Tickets to: Dinosaur World Live & Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

GARDENING

A White Garden

LOCAL NEWS School, Charity & Community

PLUS

What’s On, Local Walks, Recipe, Prize Crossword, Local Clubs, Gardening, Local Charities, Local Business Directory

through the door

2

SUSSEX LOCAL

3

May 2018 Cover image Rough Sleeper on Worthing beach

Welcome...

Firstly an apology for the unfortunate typo on last month’s cover. We do hope it didn’t spoil your enjoyment of the article and thank you to everyone who drew our attention to it.

In a modern, enlightened society it is implausible that homelessness is a problem, yet since 2010 numbers of rough sleepers have increased by 169%. Our charity profile this month is on Worthing Churches Homeless Project and how the charity have been helping homeless and insecurely housed people in this area since 1991 - see page 26.

We have two fantastic theatre ticket prizes to give away this month. Watch the world’s greatest detective under the stars - see page 24 for a chance to win tickets to The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in the open air at Field Place. Budding palaeontologists will love ’Dinosaur World’ showing at the Pavilion Theatre this July and you can win a family ticket in our competition on page 17.

Our local history article kindly supplied by Valerie Martin in on The Muntham Boar - a bronze relic excavated on the Muntham Court Estate, see page 45. We also have news from Findon Parish Council p46 in addition to our regular community news (p20) and local school news (p17).

Andrew Staib talks about colour and how a ‘White Garden’ can be a “showstopper” see page 37 for our May gardening article.

Until next month,

Kris & Jeff

Words of Wisdom “Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping him up.”

- JESSE JACKSON Disclaimer - Whilst advertisements are printed in good faith, Sussex Local (Kay Publishing Ltd) is an independent company and does not endorse products or services that appear in this magazine. Sussex Local cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions or claims made by contributors.

The views and opinions of contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher.

4 15 16 17 17 18 20 24 26 32 34 37 45 46 47 51

...........................................................................What’s On ............................................................Durrington Festival .............................................Young Readers’ Puzzle Page ........................WIN! Family ticket to see Dinosaur World .....................................................................Local Schools ........................................................................Local Walks .........................................................Charity & Community .....................WIN! Family ticket to see Sherlock Holmes ...Worthing Churches Homeless Project - Charity Profile ..................................................................Prize Crossword ..................................................................................Recipe ....................................................................In Your Garden ...................................The Muntham Boar - Local History ..............................................Parish Council & FVRA news .............................................................Business Directory ...........................................................Index of Advertisers

SUSSEX & CHICHESTER LOCAL 01903 868 474

info@sussexlocal.net www.sussexlocal.net Kay Publishing Ltd PO Box 2237, Pulborough RH20 9AH Sussex Local & Chichester Local magazines are published monthly and delivered free to over 37,700 West Sussex addresses. There are six editions and display advertising starts at just £24 a month per edition. Business Directory adverts £10 per month per edition.

1. Arundel edition - Arundel, Amberley, Burpham, Climping, Fontwell, Ford, Slindon, Walberton & Yapton Total addresses - 6,400 2. Barnham edition - Barnham, Eastergate, Westergate, Aldingbourne, Oving, & Tangmere Total addresses - 5,400 3. Chichester edition - Chichester centre & suburbs Total addresses - 7,800 4. Findon edition - Findon Valley, Findon Village, Nepcote, High Salvington, Clapham & Patching plus Salvington/Selden (south of A27) Total addresses - 6,200 5. Pulborough edition - Pulborough, Bury, Coldwaltham, Fittleworth, Marehill, Nutbourne, Stopham, West Chiltington village and Common. Total addresses - 5,500 6. Storrington edition - Storrington, Ashington, Cootham Thakeham, Sullington & Washington. Total addresses - 6,400 The combined circulation of all six editions is over 37,700 addresses.

4

What’s On

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

5

6

What’s On

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

What’s On

7

8

What’s On

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

What’s On

9

10 What’s On

DURRINGTON St

Symphorians Church Hall, New Road Mon 9.30 AM

WORTHING Charmandean Centre

Tues 9.30 AM & 11.30 AM (Forest Road off A27)

FINDON All Saints Church Hall Cissbury Drive Tues 7 PM

WORTHING Emmanuel Church Hall Heene Road Entrance Wed 9.30 AM

Sarah: 01903 218261 / 07769 611034

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

What’s On

11

12 What’s On

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

13

14 What’s On

SUSSEX LOCAL

What’s On

through the door

Durrington Festival A week of fun!

Durrington Festival is back for its 27th Year. Festival week runs from 2nd-10th June with a week of events giving groups, organisations, schools, businesses etc the opportunity to promote themselves and what they do. In many cases these can be events which take place all through the year, but Festival week gives the opportunity for events to be publicised to a wider audience, hopefully giving people the incentive to get involved in what is going on within and around their community.

The week all leads up to ‘Durrington’s Big Day’ on Saturday 9th June with the Village Fayre on Pond

15

Lane Park, with almost 50 pitches ranging from amusements to promotional sites and of course the many charity stalls raising money for their own good causes, together with the fairground which will be on site throughout. The Carnival Procession will weave its way from Romany Road to the park and the day can end with an evening concert to provide a fitting finale to both the day and Festival week.

This years theme is “Under the Sea”. There are still spaces for stalls, carnival and arena events so get in touch with durrington.festival@tesco.net and keep checking their Facebook page for regular updates.

The organisers look forward to seeing you.

Promoting your community since 1992 /durringtonfestival

@Durringtonf

SUSSEX LOCAL

16 Puzzles

Young Readers’ Puzzle Page Wordsearch - D words

Anagram

Find the listed words in the grid. Words may be hidden horizontally, vertically or diagonally and in either a forwards or backwards direction.

Trace the lines connecting the circles to find out what the 2nd word is

DANGER DEER DRIVE

DANIEL DOOR DUCK

DARK DRIFT DULL

DAVID DRINK DYES

Maze

Sudoku

Help the hungry mouse reach his tasty cheese! Start at the arrow on the top of the maze.

Place the numbers 1 – 6 once in each row, column and 3x2 bold-lined box

Answers can be found on our website after the 1st of May www.sussexlocal.net

To sponsor this feature please contact us on 01903 868474 or email info@sussexlocal.net Sponsor for just £25 per month plus a monthly prize

through the door

Competition / Local School

17

Win a family ticket to ‘Dinosaur World’ A new dino-mite adventure!

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across unchartered territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably lifelike) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

Winners will receive a family ticket for four, to see Dinosaur World at Friday 13 July, 4.30pm at Worthing Pavilion Theatre.

For more info visit worthingtheatres.co.uk

Win tickets to ‘Dinosaur World’ To enter the competition simply answer the following question: Q: Which dinosaur appears in Dinosaur World? a) T-Rex b) Diplodocus c) Stegosaurus Send your answer and full contact details including daytime telephone number to: Dinosaur World Competition, PO Box 2237, Pulborough RH20 9AH or email competitions@sussexlocal.net Winner will be first entry drawn after 31st May 2018. Please indicate if you wish to remain on our mailing list.

Findon Vale School

In groups the children participated in a rotation of activities:-

Recently, Year 3 visited Butser Ancient Farm in Waterlooville as part of their learning about the changes in Britain between the Stone and Iron Ages.

They were pleased to see the sun shining, especially as the weather had been icy during previous weeks.

Spinning: using real sheep’s wool to spin into a friendship bracelet. Cordage: using rafia to thread a bead onto a thread.

Upon arrival everyone changed into muddy boots and walked to the Visitor Centre. The children were very quick to notice the flints in the path but luckily didn’t trip!

The visit started at a longhouse that had been created out of thatch with wattle & daub walls. There was an open fire in the centre and logs or animal skins to sit on. The pupils were very fascinated by the cave paintings on the walls. They discovered that this longhouse had only been built about 4 years previously. The children then demonstrated their learning very well by answering questions in detail - the teachers were impressed by the amount of information they had remembered!

Archaeology: pupils dug in the mud (and became rather muddy) to find a selection of items and have them identified by the staff - the children were amazed to find bones, arrowheads and pebbles.

Wattling: weaving hazel trees in amongst oak posts that had been placed into the ground.

All these were a resounding success - very ‘hands on’ and the staff were also very enthusiastic.

The children got to see a Stone Age boat and guess how it would have been made; they looked at ‘Sweet’s path’ - a replica of an early structure used to walk across marshland and view a reed shelter from the Stone Age. The trip was a definite success, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. Thanks to the staff at Butser Ancient Farm for their knowledge, patience and enthusiasm.

Vale School, Vale Avenue, Findon Valley. 01903 872 322. More information at www.vale.w-sussex.sch.uk

18 Walks

SUSSEX LOCAL

Local Walks - May All walks are led by friendly, trained volunteers - please do check with the organisers for full details and for any last minute changes. Health walks are 30 – 90 minutes, supported by Walking for Health & Horsham District Council. Level 2 & Level 3 are more challenging, for fitter walkers.

Tue 1

9:30am Buchan Country Park 3 miles Meet in car park off Horsham Road (A2220), RH11 9HQ Wed 2 2.30pm Horsham Heritage Guided Walks 2 miles Guided historical walk around Horsham. Meet outside the Museum in the Causeway Thu 3 7:00pm Ron’s Evening Walks 5-6 miles For experienced walkers over difficult terrain. Very social walk that usually ending in a pub Sat 5 8:30am Three Woods Walk 8 miles Meet in Glebe Surgery car park, Storrington, RH20 4LR Sun 6 10:00am Chanctonbury Ring 3 miles Meet in Washington South Downs Way Car Park Sun 6 10:30am Leechpool & Owlbeech 2.3 miles Meet at Leechpool Wood car park, Harwood Rd, B2195 Tue 8 10:00am Fittleworth 5.5 miles Meet at Hesworth Common Car Park, on south side of the A283-B2138 junction, west of Fittleworth, RH20 1JF Wed 9 10:45am Crawley Down Countryside - Fen Mill 4 miles Meet Crawley Down Village shops, Station Rd, Crawley Down RH10 4HZ. May encounter animals Sat 12 10.30am Sumners Pond 4 miles Park opposite the Barn (RH13 0PR, TQ124268) Sun 13 10:00am Washington and Findon Valley 6.5 miles Meet at Washington Southdowns Way car park Wed 16 10:30am Storrington Riverside Walk 2.5 miles Meet at Storrington Recreation Ground Car Park, RH20 4PG Sat 19 2:00pm Sandgate Park & Sullington Warren 3.6 miles Meet at Storrington Recreation Ground car park, RH20 4PG Sun 20 10:00am Amberley Wildbrooks 5.7 miles Meet at Rackham Old School, RH20 2EU. This walk explores Amberley Wildbrooks and Amberley Village Wed 23 10:00am Henfield Byways 2-3 miles Meet at Henfield Library, High Street, Henfield, BN5 9HN. Lovely walk around the twittens and snickets of Henfield Fri 25 11:00am Southwater 2.6 miles Meet in car park of the Country Park, RH13 7UN) Sat 26 2:00pm Fryern Park 3 miles Meet at Storrington Recreation Ground car park, RH20 4PG. Goes through Fryern Park with gardens and waterfall Thu 31 10:00am Leith Hill / Redlands 6 miles Meet at The National Trust Landslip car park, RH5 6HG

1 hr Level 2 Emmy 01403 255517 90 mins Level 2 Jill 07780 701184 3 hrs

Ron 07933 106663 3 hrs Level 3 Mick 01903 745971 1 hr 15 mins Level 3 Mick 01903 745971 1 hr 15 mins Health Armelle 01403 260342 2.5 hrs Level 2 Lynne 01403 268157 1.5 hrs Level 2 Pat 01342 712591 2 hrs Level 2 Douglas 01403 268807 2 hrs 45 mins Level 3 Mick 01903 745971 90 mins Health Mick 01903 745971 1 hr 45 mins Level 2 Mick 01903 745971 2.5hrs Level 3 Mick 01903 745971 1 hr Health Anne 01273 493671 75 mins Health Jill 07780 701184 1 hr 15 mins Level 2 Mick 01903 745971 2 hrs 45 mins Level 3 Lynne 01403 268157

Arun Adur Ramblers – www.arun-adur-ramblers.org.uk Wed 2

Level 3

9:45 Eartham Woods 6 miles Meet Eartham Woods. Picnic at the end. Dogs Welcome - on a lead near livestock Sun 13 10:30 Petworth 8 miles Meet lay-by on A272 opposite Petworth Park gatehouse, East of Tillington Mon 28 10:30 Whiteways Bank Holiday Walk 8 miles Meet Whiteways Car Park. One very steep climb. Picnic Wed 30 10:00 West Chiltington 5.5 miles Meet at West Chiltington Recreation Ground. Via Nutbourne - expect cattle and stiles

Easy Leisurely Moderate Leisurely

through the door

19

SUSSEX LOCAL

20 Charity & Community

Sussex Snippets Rother Valley Croquet Club was officially opened in 2000 at the Recreation Ground by Duncton Village in the South Downs National Park and is supporting National Croquet Day on Sunday May 13th – from 10.30am until late afternoon, with refreshments available. Croquet is a game of skill that anyone, of any age, can play and a sport with that competitive edge - all you need to take part is a sense of humour and a pair of flat shoes. Contact Anne Sugarman 01798 813563 or alanandanne@talk21.com National Gardening Week runs until 6th May, so what better reason to get out in your garden and, whether you’ve got a full-on veggie patch or just a few containers on the patio, don’t forget that West Sussex residents can get a compost bin at a special reduced price of just £15. Not only can you produce some lovely rich soil for your garden, it’s also a great way to reduce the amount of food waste going into your bin fruit and veg peelings, egg shells, tea bags, and coffee grounds can all go in. www.wastepreventionwestsussex.co.uk CAGNE, Communities Against Gatwick Noise and Emissions, has written to the Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Health and Social Care, Professor Dame Sally Davies, asking for research to be

Making solid wood kitchens!

Cabinet Furniture Specialists Including bedroom, dining room, study furniture. Beautiful collections in oak and pine, or painted in the colour of your choice.

Crafted in our own workshops near South Bersted. Visit us for a bespoke, friendly, personal service.

South Bersted Business Park, Dickinson Place, PO22 9QU

01243 865010

www.cfsfurniture.co.uk

undertaken to the true cost to health of night flights on communities surrounding Gatwick. The airport currently has permission to fly 14,250 flights at night a year with no restrictions on the number of arrivals and departures they are permitted to fly over sleeping rural communities of Sussex, Surrey and Kent during the hours of 11.30pm and 6am. Contact: www.cagne.org cagnegatwick@gmail.com The Wey & Arun Canal Trust’s annual sponsored walk, or “poddle”, for charity is being held on Sunday 3rd June and starts at Walberton Village Hall with a twelve mile route taking in Binsted, the banks of the River Arun, Ford and Yapton before returning to Walberton – taking in a fascinating glimpse of canal structures along the way. To take part: download a sponsor form and ask a few friends to sponsor you for the day; you can also choose to participate in only the morning or the afternoon – registration starts at Walberton Village Hall, between 9-11am. www.weyarun.org.uk A range of West Sussex businesses gathered together recently, at an event facilitated by West Sussex County Council, to explore ways to develop their offer to visitors in the county; discussing ideas on how to encourage new and repeat visitors into West Sussex, and for them to stay longer. With so much available from vineyards, historic homes, gardens, great food, West Sussex can certainly be described as a box of delights and amongst the businesses who attended were: Gatwick Airport, Tinwood Estate Wines, Chichester Festival Theatre and the South Downs National Park Authority www.experiencewestsussex.com New research by the Royal Yachting Association shows that a quarter of people have never tried an outdoor pursuit, yet two in four want to be more active and nearly a third want to get more fresh air - the good news is there’s never been a better time to get out on the water and give sailing and windsurfing a go. RYA Push the Boat Out is back and this time for the whole of May, with free sailing and windsurfing taster sessions for everyone across the UK, all kit and safety equipment is provided and no experience is needed.

So if you didn’t know you could go sailing on your doorstep, now’s the time to give it a try. www.rya.org.uk

Notices to info@sussexlocal.net. events to www.sussexlocal.net

Charity & Community

through the door

21

A Lethal Effect

No, it wasn't an April Fools joke, we really did make a whopper of a mistake in substituting "affected" with "effected" last month. To add insult to injury, we also put it on the front cover. Very embarrassing. Apologies to all whose enjoyment of the magazine may have been spoiled by the error, and a big thank you to everyone who called or emailed us to point out the error of our ways (even those who did so less than politely, presumably to make more of an effect. Happily this didn’t affect us too much!) Affectionately yours, Editor

Charging Points go live With the sale of petrol and diesel cars set to be banned in Britain by 2040, the switch to alternatives is already underway.

Electric vehicle charging posts have been installed by Adur & Worthing Council as it steps up efforts to encourage sustainable transport use. A number of posts are already installed: two in High Street multistorey in Worthing, two in Brooklands' Western Road car park, and two at the Pond Road car park at the Shoreham Centre. A further two will be installed in Worthing Civic Centre car park.

The new posts will be open so that anyone with an electric car can plug in. Car park fees are waived for vehicles being charged, with the session costing £1.50 an hour. www.adur-worthing.gov.uk

Computer Problems?

Jargon-Free Service & Support for the home user Over 20 years experience

Virus/Spyware Removal Repairs & Maintenance iPads/Tablets Setup Photo & Video Editing

Training and Advice No Call-Out Fee Competitive Rates References Available

contact Les Burstow

01903 267 688 07887 987 980

les.burstow@vipernet-tech.co.uk www.vipernet-tech.co.uk

Charity choir in search of pianist

Reverend Beverley Miles, who is Chaplain at Worthingbased charity, Care for Veterans, is in search of a pianist to accompany a new choir she has organised.

The Gifford House Singers, which consists of resident veterans, their family members, staff and volunteers, made their debut at the charity’s Carol Concert in December. The choir already has a leader to put them through their paces, but they need a pianist who will come and play at their practice sessions, which will be once a month on a Saturday for one hour. They would also like the pianist to be available for any performances the choir has in the local area. The choir has its own keyboard – all they need is someone to play it! If you can help and would like to get involved with The Gifford House Singers, please contact Care for Veterans on 01903 218444.

Policing numbers Dear Editor, I am a retired police officer and part of a large group of retired Sussex officers, including senior retired officers. As a group, we have very strong concerns regarding the present state of policing in Sussex; especially the dangerously low numbers of officers available at any one time to deal with calls from the public, and protect their lives and property.

We have recently taken issue with the Sussex Police, over numbers of PCSO's and Police officers. It appears that there are no plans to recruit any further PCSO's, but far more serious is the fact that the recruitment of 200 Police officers per annum over four years is not an increase in manpower, but simply maintains present levels.

The officers policing Sussex are under severe pressures, the likes of which no Sussex Police officer has experienced before, and they have little support to fall back on. The public remains largely supportive, but with understandable reservations as to the effectiveness of policing in Sussex and whether they will receive a timely response to emergency calls, or in some cases any response at all. The command team of the Sussex Police has an unenviable task trying to cope with constant financial restraints, but there comes a point where they have to stand up and be counted, as is their responsibility, that point was passed a considerable time ago.

Yours, Stephen John Mann, by email

22 Charity & Community

SUSSEX LOCAL

Worthing Guest House owners test Donkey Bikes Worthing accommodation providers got on their bikes last week to re-launch the town’s Donkey Republic bike hire scheme for the 2018 summer season. Representatives from Heenefields, High Beach, The Moorings and Baltimore Guest Houses joined Judy Fox, Worthing Borough council’s Visitor Experience Officer to test drive the bikes.

The Donkey Republic Bike Hire 24/7, self-service scheme launched last May has been popular with visitors and residents alike. The Donkey Republic bikes which have been imported from Copenhagen are bright orange, easily adjustable and comfy to ride.

Guesthouse owners were eager to find out how the Donkey Bikes work so that they can help their guests make the most of their visit to Worthing this summer.

Users simply download the app to rent and unlock the bike. It’s the perfect scheme for visitors who may not want the hassle of bringing their bikes from home.

The Great news for 2018 is the introduction of a new 30 min bike hire for just £1.25 and a reduction in the rental from £6 to £5 for 2 hours.

There are currently four pick up points around the town: The Lido, Pavilion Theatre, Steyne Gardens and Windsor Road Shelter. Worthing Borough Council is looking to expand the scheme and would be interested

Remember your loved ones with the Sunflower Memories Appeal St Barnabas House, invites you to participate in its Sunflower Memories Appeal.

The appeal enables supporters and friends of St Barnabas House to make a donation in memory of a loved one.

In return for a donation, we have a lovely sunflower marker onto which the name of your loved one can be written. Each sunflower will be planted in the hospice grounds for the month of June 2018.

On Friday 8 June at 6pm and Saturday 9 June at 10.30am, our Chaplain, Stephen Gurr, will conduct a blessing in memory of all those for whom a sunflower has been dedicated.

Will you remember a loved one with a sunflower dedicated in their memory?

To find out how you can be a part of the Sunflower Memories Appeal, please call our Fundraising Team on 01903 706329

to hear from any local businesses interested in sponsoring the introduction of new bikes.

West Worthing Probus Club West Worthing Probus is a friendly vibrant social club and welcomes retired and semi-retired men, living in Worthing and the surrounding area to join the club.

They meet at at The John Selden pub in Salvington Road, Worthing, on the third Thursday of every month (except December) for lunch followed by a talk from a guest speaker. For more information please contact Roger Mills, Secretary on 01903 267903 or email rogermills2009@hotmail.co.uk

We print community notices free of charge - please send yours to info@sussexlocal.net

through the door

23

SUSSEX LOCAL

24 Competition / Finance

Win tickets to 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ Watch the world’s greatest detective in a theatre under the stars Turner’s traditional adaptations of the texts have entertained our audiences for years, and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is no different. So what are you waiting for? The game’s afoot...

Two families have the chance to win a family ticket (two adults, two children) to Chapterhouse Theatre Company’s production of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes at Field Place Manor House and Barns on Wednesday 27th June for an evening of theatre beneath the stars.

For tickets and info visit www.chapterhouse.org Deep in the beautiful Northumbrian countryside, a terrifying mystery and a legendary nemesis await the arrival of the world’s greatest detective. When the wife of Doctor Watson suddenly disappears, a desperate quest to find her begins. Sherlock Holmes comes face to face with his greatest fear at the hands of his mortal enemy in this stunning new tale of romance and suspense.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company is delighted to be returning to Field Place Manor House and Barns – a stunning, Grade II listed venue – to deliver more open -air theatre to the people of West Sussex. This time, audiences will be transported to a world cloaked in mystery and suspense. Award-winning writer Laura

Win a family ticket to ‘The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ To enter please answer the following question: Q: In which county does this tale take place? a) Northumbria b) Sussex c) Surrey Send your answer and full contact details including daytime telephone number to: Sherlock Holmes Competition, PO Box 2237, Pulborough RH20 9AH or email competitions@sussexlocal.net Winner will be first entry drawn after 31st May 2018. Please indicate if you wish to remain on our mailing list.

Workplace Pensions

By Richard Cohen FPFS ACII MCSI Chartered Financial Planner The roll out of “Auto-Enrolment” has been a huge success with nine million people saving for their retirement for the first time. Before the programme it was estimated 20-30% would opt out, in fact only 9% have. This good pension news has hardly been reported with recent articles focusing on the “contributions hike” that happened last month. When auto-enrolment started the minimum contribution rates for a basic rate tax payer were 0.8% for employees, 1% for employers and 0.2% from the government.

Last month’s increase means these contribution rates increase to 2.4% from employees, 2% from employers and 0.6% from the government. A further “hike” next year means contributions are due to increase further to 4%, 3% and 1% respectively.

Rather than see this as a bad thing I believe employed pension savers should be delighted that they will be able to double their money with the help of their employer and the government.

There are some problems around the system that need to be resolved, none of them should be a reason to opt out. For example, “net pay” arrangements that

work to the advantage of tax payers deprive non-taxpayers of the government contribution. There have also been examples of employers trying to avoid their pensions obligations which must be clamped down on.

The biggest problem is that for many people the contribution isn’t enough to give them the pension they would like in retirement. Ultimately the “defined contribution” schemes that the majority of employers have been auto-enrolled into are investment accounts; the more that is paid in the more they will pay out.

Logically, if each year you save 8% of your income into a pension for a typical working life of 40 years, what level of income can you realistically expect the pension to provide for a retirement that may well last more than 20 years? The government may seek to address this by increasing contributions further although the concern is that may encourage people to opt out altogether. In conclusion it’s a fantastic start but there is still work to do.

For more details visit www.nsurefinancial.co.uk or to arrange a free review please call 01903 821010

through the door

25

26 Charity Profile

SUSSEX LOCAL

Worthing Churches Homeless Project Helping the homeless in Worthing since 1991

by Amy Oboussier Worthing Churches Homeless Projects (WCHP) is a local charity helping homeless and insecurely housed men and women. A group of Christians in Worthing had become concerned with the number of rough sleepers in their town, and in 1991 they took matters into their own hands and started handing out food and bedding to those sleeping on the seafront. Over 25 years later the charity has over 100 staff members, 300 volunteers and has become an essential service not just in the Worthing district, but also Littlehampton, Shoreham and Horsham.

With homelessness on the rise, charities like WCHP have become crucial in supporting the ever-increasing numbers of homeless men and women. Since 2010 rough sleeping has increased by 169%. According to the Department for Communities and Local Government (published in January 2018) 4,751 people in England are estimated to be sleeping out on any one night in England.

However, this number is a snapshot compiled of street counts and estimated by local governments and the actual figure is estimated to be much higher.

The homeless charity Crisis estimates there are around 9,100 people sleeping rough every night. They also estimate there are 12,100 people squatting in unlicensed or non-residential buildings; and 68,300 “sofa-surfing”.

Why do people become homeless?

The reasons people become homeless are varied and complex. However, the most common reason for someone using WCHP’s services is a relationship breakdown, this can be between spouses, family or friends. Mental health issues, financial strains or substance misuse can often accompany a relationship breakdown. Increasingly, the charity is seeing people become homeless as a result of an end to a short term tenancy. With the need for affordable housing outstripping the supply and rent prices rocketing, many in our community have been priced out of the market and forced onto the streets or into housing that is not fit for purpose.

The realities of rough sleeping are harder than many of us can imagine, especially with the cold wet weather we have been experiencing. Not only do rough sleepers have to contend with the physical hardship of the cold, wet, windy British weather, but also the physiological hardship of rough sleeping. A support worker at WCHP explained: “Our clients will often hide at night to avoid violence and abuse on the streets, we know that our clients are 17 times more likely to be the victim of a violent attack than you or I. We hear stories of clients being urinated on, verbally and physically abused. It is impossible to live with dignity in these awful circumstances. The average age of death for someone sleeping rough is just 47, this highlights the hardship our clients face. What is worrying us most now is the change in demographic of the individuals coming through our doors. We are seeing more young people and more women than ever, but also people with server untreated mental and physical health issues. This is as a result of the cuts to our public services and the changes to benefits.”

27

through the door

www.homeiswherethehearthis.co.uk

28 Charity Profile How do WCHP help?

When morning comes rough sleepers can go to WCHP’s Community Hub in Worthing to come into the warm, get a hot breakfast, have a shower and get clean, dry clothes. They can also talk to the multiagency team there. The team at St Clare’s Community Hub provide specialist care, including help with housing, mental health and substance misuse. A nurse, hairdresser, chaplain, counsellor, probation officer, women’s worker and more, provide specialist services for rough sleepers in this space. The charity also provides similar hub services in Littlehampton and Horsham.

Currently, the charity has over 60 people sleeping in their accommodation, which will go up to over 100 by the end of April. The charity provides a range of hostels and housing options for those who have experienced homelessness. Including, a 15 bed high support hostel, 14 beds with medium support and a number of properties that provide both supported and unsupported independent living spaces.

WCHP also have their Recovery Project in Worthing.

The service is a 25 bed residential drug and alcohol service for single homeless adults with drug and/or alcohol addictions. The service aims to support individuals to overcome their addictions and to live independent lives through the use of psycho-social interventions and practical responses.

New Lyndhurst Road project The big news this year for WCHP is the opening of their new project. The building, which is located at 22 Lyndhurst Road, has been gifted to WCHP by Roffey Homes, free of rent for up to five years. In conjunction with Roffey Homes and the Council, the charity put forward a proposal, which was approved by the Worthing Borough Council in January 2018. Lyndhurst Road will open as a short stay assessment hostel at the end of April. Clients will be referred into the project by a multi-agency team made up of WCHP staff, the Council’s housing team and others. Whilst there, clients will be assessed as to where they can go next. The charity understand that not everyone’s journey out of homelessness is the same, some will just need a little support before they are back on their feet and into independent housing, while others will need long term support for years or even the rest of their lives.

The project will have a mixture of models within it, including maisonettes for male only, female only and couples. The model will also meet the needs of those with mental health issues. This opportunity will allow WCHP to work with clients that have not been able to access the accommodation services previously. It is also the hope of the charity that this project will bring rough sleeping numbers in Worthing down from 35 to

SUSSEX LOCAL single figures. In addition to the accommodation, the building will also provide office space for WCHP staff, but also for a multi-agency team of 10 to 15 staff, who’s aim is to create a more “joined up” and effective and efficient front to tackling homelessness locally.

Such a large undertaking would not have been possible for this charity without the support of the community. The last few months have seen, churches, community groups, businesses and individuals come together to help the charity and their clients get his project up and running. From painting the walls and raising money to supplying the furniture, pots and pans, down to the last teaspoon.

WCHP’s new hostel building

Charity Profile

through the door

29

How can we help?

As funding for all charities is squeezed and the need increases, WCHP are in need of additional support. If you are able to make a financial donation, just £15 will provide breakfast for a week for someone attending one of their Community Hubs.

Pat is one of WCHP’s volunteers Collector Jean Saunders (c) Stephen Goodger How much does it cost?

The visible rise in homelessness over the past few years has raised the awareness of issues both locally and national and the charity is receiving more support than ever. However, it cost £2.5 million to fund their projects last year.

You can also support them by visiting one of their charity shops in Worthing or Littlehampton or attending one of their fundraising events. You can also become one of the 300 valued volunteers that assist the charity in their work; from cooking breakfast in their Community Hubs to gardening in their hostels to administration in their offices.

For more information on WCHP’s services visit www.wchp.org.uk or call 01903 680740.

30 Finance

SUSSEX LOCAL

Your 10 Point Guide to Retirement

By Ivan Lyons Director Investment Solutions, Worthing Almost 700,000 people in the UK are planning to retire this year. This is our suggested checklist of the 10 things anyone going into retirement should do.

1. List your assets Before you make any decisions about your retirement you need to know exactly what you are worth and how much income you are likely to have.

2. Get a state pension forecast We advise people to get a state pension forecast in advance of retirement. Not only would this confirm the amount of pension you will receive, but also identify if you have any shortfall in your total of qualifying years for the state pension.

3. Tot-up the costs of what you want to do in retirement You should first think about how much money you need for day-to-day spending. Then work out if you expect to have any other expenses, such as holidays, and how you want to take money from your pension to pay for these things.

4. Work out whether you can afford to retire Have you put enough money aside to be able to retire or do you need to work a little longer? Most people will live longer than they expect to, so you should keep this in mind when doing your sums. A 65 year old man has a 50% chance of living at 87, whilst a woman of the same age has a 50% chance of living to 90.

5. Don’t forget the impact of income tax Whilst those retiring will be able to withdraw up to 25% of their pension funds as tax free cash, any further withdrawals will be subject to income tax once they have used up their annual personal allowance which is £11,850 (from 6 April 2018). To mitigate the impact of tax on your take-home retirement income how about using a combination of sources for your pension, including withdrawals from ISAs and regular realisation of capital gains, making use of the annual capital gains tax allowance which is £11,700 (tax year 2018/19).

6. Consolidate your pension pots Many people have jobs with a series of employers throughout their working lives and thus build a number of pension pots. Having all of your pension savings in one place makes it easier to keep track of your money and you also tend to be charged less for one large sum than you would for a number of smaller sums.

Unnecessarily high charges can reduce the value of your retirement fund by thousands of pounds.

7. Think about how you want to access your income People with pension pots have a number of choices, including taking a chunk of their money in cash, buying an annuity (an annual income for life), or taking income drawdown.

8. Consider the effects of inflation When calculating retirement income, don’t forget to factor in the impact that inflation will have on the real purchasing power of your savings.

9. Don’t take too much from your pension pot each year As a rough rule of thumb, strategy suggests that you can take out about 4% of the initial value of your fund every year and be fairly confident that your pot won’t run out. If you take out more, you could hit problems.

10. Protect yourself from scams A staggering 10.9 million consumers have been victims of cold calls about their pension since April 2015, according to Citizens Advice. It’s really important to check whether any company that you are planning to use is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority.

You can visit its scam smart website, which includes a list of companies running scams.

Contact Investment Solutions: Grafton House, 26 Grafton Road, Worthing, BN11 1QT. 01903 214640 or send an email to Ivan at: ilyons@graftonhouse.net or visit www.investment-solutions.co.uk

Legal

through the door

31

How are divorce trends looking today?

By Karen Fleming, Fleming & Co In 2013 divorce rates fell to their lowest level in 40 years. They have since stabilised but not risen as in the past. Let’s investigate why they took a dive in 2013. Divorce rates, in 2013, were at their lowest since 1975, the year after the major liberalisation of divorce law, in the wake of the sexual revolution of the 60’s.

The decrease coincided with the rise in the number of couples choosing to marry, reversing the long trend of declining marriage and rising divorce. Between 2003 and 2013 there was a huge shift in people choosing to live together. Social attitudes had changed. The number of families, headed by cohabiting couples was up by 30 per cent.

Interestingly, the latest divorce figures also offer further evidence that younger couples who marry now are less likely to divorce than their parents’ generation.

This may be largely due to people marrying older and ‘choosing’ to and not having to, as no longer influenced, as before, by society’s expectations .

Consequently, while 42 per cent of marriages now end in divorce, there is evidence that the proportion is decreasing for couples who married since 2010.

Regarding age trends, it was with the over 50s, that

divorce rates increased by most in 2017. The average age to divorce rose to 46 for men and 44 for women, in 2016, the highest on record. The average duration of marriages ending was 12 years in 2016, the second highest figure on record.

The chair of the family law organisation Resolution, states that although the fastest growing type of household in Britain, cohabiting couples, has meant reduced divorce rates because less people marry, more couples may actually marry if the Government introduced legislation giving prenups the weight of statute rather than just the weight of case law, because the wealthier, (still men statistically), may then feel comfortable marrying. The majority of divorces in 2016 were petitioned by the wife (61%). Between 1980 and 2000, this proportion had consistently been at or above 70%. Unreasonable behaviour has consistently been the most common ground for wives petitioning for divorce since the late 1970s. It has only been the most common ground for husbands since 2006. In the 1980s and 1990s it was adultery.

Next time I will look back at the divorce laws pre 1975. You can judge if you feel they were changed for the better or worse! www.flemingandco.co.uk karen.fleming@flemingandco.co.uk 01903 446698

SUSSEX LOCAL

32 Crossword

Prize Crossword

Findon May 2018

Win a ÂŁ20 voucher for The Village House, Findon

March 2018 solution shown below.

Winner: Jackie Worthing

James

from

Congratulations and thank you to all who entered.

Send entries to: Sussex Local Crossword, PO Box 2237 Pulborough, RH20 9AH or scan and email the page to crosswords@sussexlocal.net

Across

Down

1 9 10 11 12 13 16 18 21 22 23 24

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 17 19 20

Expulsion from a country (11) Monotonous hum (5) Food item from a hen (3) Additional (5) Nadir (anag) (5) A lament (8) Type of Eurasian carp (8) Parts of the cerebrum (5) Part of the hand (5) Creature with pointed ears (3) Reason for innocence (5) Eternity (11)

Oriental (7) Acquires (7) Rotated (6) Shy (5) Large body of water (5) Dejected (11) Fearful of open spaces (11) Version of a book (7) Fluids (7) Egg-shaped solids (6) Confuse or obscure (5) Mollusc with a shell (5)

Name:...............................................................................................................

Full address: ................................................................................................... ..........................................................................................................................

Postcode: .........................................................................................................

Email: ...............................................................................................................

Phone: ..............................................................................................................

Mobile: ............................................................................................................

Closing date: 31st May 2018 Good luck!

THE VILLAGE HOUSE FINDON

Where great food and hospitality is our speciality WIN a ÂŁ20 food voucher www.villagehousefindon.co.uk

01903 873350

Sussex Local may wish to keep in touch with occasional information and offers.

We will never share your details with third parties.

Please tick if you would like to receive such information.

through the door

33

34 Recipe

Jersey Royal Roasties Ingredients  1.2 kg Jersey Royal potatoes  1 bulb of garlic, unpeeled and cut in half  A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or dried is fine  Sea salt  Freshly ground black pepper  Olive oil

SUSSEX LOCAL A seasonal recipe with a unique flavour Method: 1. Give your jerseys a good wash careful not to rub off that delicious skin 2. Preheat the oven to 190ºC/375ºF/gas 5. Add the potatoes to a medium pan of boiling salted water, reduce the heat to medium. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Drain and leave to steam dry, then place in medium roasting tray and crush lightly with a potato masher.

3. Throw in the garlic and rosemary, season with salt and pepper and drizzle with a good lug of olive oil.

Place in the hot oven for around 40 minutes, or until crispy and golden. (Perfectly served with your choice of roasting joint available at Village Larder) Recipe kindly supplied by Village Larder, Squires Garden Centre www.villagelarder.co.uk. Find us next to Squires Garden Centre, Washington or Old Mill Drive Storrington every Thursday. Follow Hollie on Instagram and Twitter for more inspirational recipe ideas @village_larder

Property

through the door

Thermal Imaging

By Chris Ennis FRICS I suppose that as we all get older we would like to think that we become wiser… I look back on more than 40 years inspecting all forms of buildings. Mainly these have been residential dwellings, but I have surveyed bingo halls, industrial units, farm buildings and even a church.

I consider myself to have been very lucky with the choice of my career and speciality…. that of reporting on the structural condition of buildings. I actually still enjoy what I do for a living, although it must be said that there are physical aspects of the work that are becoming more difficult with passing of the years.

If I had my time again, I would make many changes to my career which started working in a Bank at the age of 18—I didn’t really know what I wanted for the next 50 years. My Father convinced me that banking offered security and a good pension. I took all the Bank exams, but always wanted to be involved with something more practical. In 1973 I made the break from Banking and moved to the property business.

Four more years of examinations saw me qualified as a building surveyor. I remember those early days….and some of the crass errors I made.

35

If I had to start again, I would use my surveying experience, and I would link it to innovative technical equipment. One such recent advance is the use of thermal imaging technology which has so many applications including health, damp, heat loss, rescue services and many more. The equipment has fallen in price, and there are training courses available at reasonable cost.

I would couple the thermal imaging to a drone. A drone is an ‘unmanned aerial vehicle’ commonly known as a ‘UAV’ Drones cost between £150.00 and many thousands of pounds. Linked to conventional digital cameras, or thermal imaging kit in my opinion they offer a fine business idea for an enterprising young person.

This technology has been around for a while, and as a practising surveyor I can see many useful and potentially profitable applications.

If only I were 20 years younger!

Chris Ennis FRICS is a Chartered Surveyor Tel: 01903 261217 visit www.propdoctor or send an email to: surveyor1@talktalk.net

SUSSEX LOCAL

36 Home & Garden

Stop!

“Call me before you buy your dream home”

To make sure your dream home doesn’t hide any nasty surprises!

Shockingly, many people do not obtain a professional survey before buying a house. This can result in future misery and thousands of pounds of repair work.

I will report on the current condition of a property and also forewarn you of any major problems which may arise. I am a fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and have over 30 years local experience.

Based in High Salvington, I pride myself on my speedy and personal service. Feel free to call me for an informal chat.

Chris Ennis FRICS 01903 261 217 07703 131 686 www.propdoctor.co.uk

- Homebuyer reports - Probate valuations - Defect diagnosis - Pre-sale inspections - Condition reports - Building surveys

Gardening

through the door

37

In Your Garden Monthly gardening ideas and tasks by Andrew Staib, Principle Designer of Glorious Gardens Since publishing my article in the April Edition on John Brookes, he died on the 16th March. I was lucky enough to interview him and meet this pioneer of garden design. His garden at Denmans is now run by a trust and will be opening in June.

John Brookes MBE (c) Gwendolyn van Paasschen

Creating a White Garden In the 1930’s Vita Sackville-West began to renovate the gardens at Sissinghurst Castle. She became famous for her newspaper columns on what was possible to do with plants and different spaces. She created many outdoor ‘rooms’ in her own garden, including The White Garden’. This has inspired designers ever since.

Small is Beautiful You don’t have to have a huge space to create a white garden. The impact will be powerful enough. It can simply consist of a border along the house or a path. If you have a larger garden with deep beds a white garden will be a complete show stopper. It is especially striking if the area has a little shade where the bright white blooms can light up the space.

Tone White comes into its own in contrast with darker toned foliage plants. The classic foil for delicate white flowers is Yew hedging. This well knitted, intense dark green is a strong backdrop and retains its form in the Winter. Recently we used 6 foot cylindrical Yew columns rhythmically spaced along a deep border and used white Rosa rugosa to flow around them with their great blousy rose blooms. The contract in tone and shape really caught the eye.

Other plants to use for tone are the Spruces like Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar, Blue Star Juniper and Moonglow Juniper. Viburnum can act both as a dark tonal plant as well as itself having white flowers. Box and Ilex crenata can be used for hedging as well as dark purple foliage plants like the beautiful Anthriscus “Ravenswing”. This last plant can be used to weave amongst other plants and create a frothy plume of white in the Summer.

Cool v Warm There are different shades of white and to make things simple you could look at them in terms of cool whites that have echoes of blue and silver in them, and warm whites which have a more creamy yellow hue. One example is the warm ever so slight apricot centre of Rosa Claire Austin compared to the bright, titanium white of Rosa Queen of Sweden.

38 Gardening On the cooler side we have the Sea Hollies, especially Miss Willmot’s Ghost, Weeping Silver Pear and Dianthus Mrs Sinkins. This is a good opportunity here to include the silver foliage plants that can compliment the cooler whites: Artermis Powis Castle, Costa Royal Standard, Lychnis Alba and of course Lamb’s Ear. Flowers and foliage for the warmer palate can include: Hydrangea “Annabelle”, Peony ‘Chedder Gold”, Ammi visage, Fennel, the creamy range of Foxgloves like ‘Dalmation’s Cream’ and warmer olive greens can be used as a backdrop like Hornbeam and Beech.

Perfume Jasmine offinalis, Wysteria Alba and night scented white Stocks will give you lot of Summer fragrance.

SUSSEX LOCAL Shape and texture Just because you are limiting your colour scheme doesn’t mean you don’t have access to a range of wonderful perennial shapes. As I have discussed in previous articles a perennial border works best if you include a range of shapes. For example, an interesting design might include the white horizontal platelets of Achillea millifolium, the tall spires of Delphiniums, the Japanese Iris ‘The White Swan’ and the perfect globes of Allium Mt Everest with a few foxgloves and some fat leaved white flowering Hostas to complete the picture.

Specific plants Trees Birch trees, especially Betula jacquemontii obviously look splendid and white as snow but in most gardens they grow to unmanageable heights.

Shrubs Lots to choose from here - Hydrangea Bombshell, Daphne Summer Ice, Philadelphus, Rosa rugosa ‘Alba’ and Smabucus marginata.

Climbers The title of queen of the white climbers goes to Wysteria Alba. Climbing Hydrangea and Trachelospurmum jasmnoide are two great sturdy plants especially for a north wall, with large climbers like Clematis armando and Clematis montana great for a long fence or a shed that needs hiding.

Gardening

through the door Some lovely perennials Try Aquilegia ‘Tower White’, Phlox ‘David’, Leucanthemum ‘Summer Snowball’ and Salvia ‘Summer Jewel White’ and just like Anthriscus ‘Ravenswing’, Selenium can be used as a plant that weaves and binds the rest of the planting together with its delicate Cow Parsley effects.

Bulbs As well as Snowdrops and white Crocus, white Tulips and Hyacinths can be planted randomly in the bed as well as the robust Agapantha ‘White Heaven’.

Other colours Just because you are creating a white border doesn’t mean you have an absence of other colours. Already we have talked about the different whites that can be used and the different shades of green. Small additions of red, pink, purple or even orange can make the whites appear even whiter and fresher.

Places to visit Make a visit to Sissinghurst. You will need a whole day as there are lots of nice places to sit and (c) GraceKelly reflect. It is also a beautifully thought out and intimate space with many memorable and unique spaces. There is also a good quality cafe and temporary exhibitions.

39

May tasks There is an old gardener’s adage that ‘one loses the gardens in May’. There is so much to do.  Buy and plant annual flowers and other frost sensitive plants like vegetable plugs tomatoes, runner beans, peppers, aubergines and chillies - if you didn’t have the opportunity to grow them indoors this year.  Feed and mow lawns  Water any new plants and fertilise and water pot plants  Prune Penstemons back to the fresh green shoots if they show lots of new basal growth  Thin out the Clematis that have already flowered this year  Hoe weeds to save you having to get on your hands and knees - little and often

40

SUSSEX LOCAL

Business Profile

through the door

41

Revitalise your kitchen!

Reface not Replace A kitchen plays a huge part of the life of a family. Tired or out of date cupboards and appliances can mean that mundane but essential tasks such as preparing food, washing up, laundry and ironing can become even less appealing. An update can give your kitchen, and those using it, a new energy. Chores and cooking can be tackled with gusto and families will gravitate to this re-vitalised space to gather and connect.

A completely new kitchen may not be within everyone's budget but at Dream Doors in Barnham there is an alternative. Neil Fisher who runs Dream Doors as part of a franchise, told Sussex Local that a kitchen facelift is the ideal option and replacing old, chipped or outdated doors can achieve a remarkable makeover at a fraction of the cost. He emphasised that customer satisfaction is their main objective and he and his team are prepared to do whatever the client wants, whether it is one replacement drawer or a complete kitchen refit.

With a vast range of styles available, from traditional to ultra modern in hundreds of colours, making the right choice can be tricky. Neil and his staff are on hand to give advice regarding which finishes will best complement the rest of the home and fit the style

and personality of the owners.

Neil explained that as part of a well-established franchise, they have access to a huge selection of products including worktops, sinks, lighting and also kitchen appliances.

Dream Doors Directors, Catherine & Neil at their showroom in Barnham

All doors are made to measure and replacement can be done quickly and without the mess and disruption involved in a complete refit. Neil assured us that there is no pressure on customers to make choices which will exceed their budget and that they will be kept fully informed throughout the refitting process.

For more information or to arrange a no obligation quotation, contact Neil Fisher or visit them at their Barnham showroom. Dream Doors Unit 13, The Square, Barnham PO22 0HB 01243 554732 barnham@dreamdoors.co.uk www.dreamdoors.co.uk

10%

Discou nt with th is ad.

WINDOWS - DOORS -PORCHES FASCIAS - SOFFITS - GUTTERING SHOPFRONTS -CONSERVATORIES ORANGERIES - EXTENSIONS PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS BI-FOLDING DOORS ALL DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR WORKS UNDERTAKEN

01903 765 506

info@attwaterwindows.com www.attwaterhomeimprovements.co.uk 116 Cokeham Lane Sompting BN15 9SQ

42

SUSSEX LOCAL

through the door

43

SUSSEX LOCAL

44 Pets

Paws for thought Rabbits Rabbits are the 4th most popular pet in the UK with 0.8 million being kept as pets.

Therefore, rabbit welfare is very important for owners and prospective owners to consider.

According to the annual Vet Emma Suckling, PDSA Animal Welfare (PAW) Findon Valley Report 2017, inappropriate diet has been consistently cited by vets as the top issue that needs to be addressed for rabbits. This report suggested that 25% of owners still feed muesli as part of their rabbit’s main diet which is a lot of rabbits being fed a harmful diet that can cause disease such as obesity, dental problems and sticky dropping leading to flystrike. A high-quality, hay-based diet is preferable.

Rabbits also spend a large proportion of their day grooming themselves and their companion rabbit(s) if they have one. However, housing needs to be cleaned out frequently and adequately ventilated to deter flies. Leave some used bedding material each time, as this will smell friendlier and provide assurance. Clean toilet areas every day if possible.

It is very important in the warmer months to check your rabbit at least 3 times a day for fly strike, a potentially fatal disease wherein flies lay eggs in soiled rabbit fur and these hatch into maggots.

Vaccinating your rabbit against Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD) is important especially in rural areas where domestic rabbits may come in contact with wild rabbits, or their fleas.

Finally, owners should give attention to ‘enriching’ their rabbits environment – they are inquisitive animals and love to play and investigate new toys. A veterinary nurse should be able to advise you on ways of doing this or look at the Rabbit Welfare Association website www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk.

Crossways Veterinary Group, Findon Road Findon Valley, School Hill Storrington & High Street Steyning 01903 877325 www.crosswaysvets.co.uk

through the door

Local History

45

The Muntham Temple Boar by Valerie Martin In the March edition I made mention of the archaeological excavations at the Muntham Court Estate and I promised to tell you more about a certain relic... a plaque in bronze.

Bronze figurine of a pig/boar The above fellow tickled me when I first clapped eyes on him. No, it is not Piglet. The bronze figurine is said to depict a slain Roman boar - a tusked wild pig. Do not go hunting for one of these today... this particular breed went extinct in the 17th century.

The Muntham boar is from the 2nd century AD and was discovered on private land at reference TQ 1009.

I have no exact date for the "find", nor who found it but I suppose that is incidental and not all that important to the story I have uncovered.

The animal depiction was recovered from a religious shrine/temple and has become known as the Muntham Temple Boar. It was described as being "a slain animal"....but I am not an archaeologist and I think it just could possibly be a "charging boar". It all goes to add a bit of my own descriptive narrative.

Delving a little further into Roman history the Muntham boar design indicates to us that the Romans conducted a boar cult in our area.

You can see that it is of rather expert and beautiful bronze reconstruction and decoration, down to the pronounced bristles on its back. Quite a formidable and fierce creature to meet grunting and snorting as it wandered the Findon countryside. This all goes to signify that the Romans in our area definitely went on the hunt and enjoyed roast pork in their menus.

This particular relic is hollow at the back and in all probability was utilised as some form of furniture embellishment and decoration in a one of Findon's more palatial Roman dwellings... there are no visible means of attachment.

The Romans appeared to have quite a fascination with dangerous beasts. In the top right corner, a silver Roman coin depicting a wild boar pierced with a spear and being attacked by a dog (I must note here this coin was not found in Findon but just used as by way of my illustration). If you think about it, the Romans also displayed wolves and eagles on their

military standards and so a boar is not that unusual and at least three of the Roman legions did utilise a boar as their emblem.

The area at the Muntham Estate was excavated in the 50s by archaeologists and this also brought to light a large Roman settlement containing structures of properties/ houses and remnants of ancient field boundaries, some sunken track ways and, of course, the above mentioned circular temple. The temple was discovered around 1953-55 during Colonel Ulric Oliver Thynne's days of tenure of the land and originally permission had to be sought from him to perform excavations on the site near to the Muntham Clump.

The Thynne family of Muntham Court (who were not particularly religious) were rather bemused when it was excitedly related to them that a Roman "temple" had been discovered within yards of their own Thynne family burial ground at the Muntham Clump.

At the time the vicar in Findon was the Reverend Usher Bull and it is recorded that he was very worried that they might be "digging on consecrated land".

There was also to be found Iron Age activity beneath the temple, although religious continuity was not proved.

Unfortunately the bronze animal has now left Findon and found its way to the Worthing Museum. It was a hot topic in our area when discovered and replicas were even manufactured and sold as souvenirs. I cannot help but wonder if anyone has one of these mementos in their own collection today? During a BBC radio programme, Sir Mortimer Wheeler (if you are of a certain age you will remember his name) announced the original item to be one of the best Roman specimens he had ever come across.

Many artefacts were unearthed during the "dig" and pits contained ox skulls and other bones. Further finds at the Muntham Roman settlement were a knife, a pair of tongs, a clay human leg (I wonder what that was used for?) and also a ritual well with skeletons of canines.

There is no doubt that the Romans and their association with boars abounded in Findon. If you want further evidence, in the 1990s during an excavation at North Farm land (off the A24) at reference TQ 1210 a Romano-British settlement was revealed. Yet a further solid bronze boar figurine then came to light. This one was standing on its short legs and boasted the same crested and bristled spine.

SUSSEX LOCAL

46 Parish Council News

Findon Valley Residents’ Association Residents’ Surgery in library Takes place on Saturday, 5th May, 10am – 12 noon.

Community Initiative Fund We are pleased to let you know our application to the Community Initiative Fund has been approved. We have been awarded £1,200 to cover the cost of the three planters to be placed on the Library bedding area. We are looking for volunteers to help us with some weeding and planting. Contact Maggie Winter on 01903 263038 or email chairman@findonvalley.org 2019 Calendar We are delighted to announce that Curtis & Son and Keen & Betts have generously agreed to sponsor the 2019 calendar. More details next month. Start taking your photographs now!

Join our committee!  The Publicity/Press Officer looks after the marketing to increase FVRA profile.  The Highways Officer liaises with various agencies to improve safe use of the roads, footpaths and access to open areas.

Findon Parish Council Planning Edited extracts from the draft minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 22nd March 2018 Chairman’s announcement A Planning Notice regarding a hybrid application for Soldiers (c) Sheila Mills Field Stables, Soldiers Field Lane had just been received and the application would be considered at the Findon Parish Council (FPC) Planning Committee meeting on19 April 2018.

Declarations of interest Cllr Goldsworthy declared a pecuniary and prejudicial interest in Agenda itemP 18.17 (SDNP/18/00985/ HOUS –Greenview House, Steep Lane) as a close neighbour and would leave the meeting for this item and take no part in any discussion.

Consideration of applications a) SDNP/18/00985/HOUS – Greenview House, Steep Lane, Findon, BN14 0UE. Retrospective consent for BBQ cabin to replace previous garden shed.

Councillors had reviewed the available documents and the site location. The Committee raised the following material planning objections to the retrospective application:

 The Environment Officer helps maintain the beauty

of Findon Valley.  The Events Officer organises a few social events to build the community spirit.

Call Maggie Winter on 01903 263038 or email chairman@findonvalley.orgfor further details.

Collectors needed Help is needed for collectors to join our team to call on local residents for their membership subscriptions. If you would like more information contact Jim Booth, Membership Secretary, on 07757 703 127 or email membership@findonvalley.org.

We’re on Facebook!

Search FVRA – Findon Valley Residents’ Association. Please like, share and follow us. This is another way to promote FVRA allowing you to share photos, thoughts and stories, while being informed of any events or news. www.findonvalley.org • BBQ cabin and chimney cowl diagrams and measurements in the application were inaccurate and misleading; • The cabin and chimney cowl were overbearing and un-neighbourly due to the height and proximity to, and overlooking of, adjoining properties including two listed buildings; and • FPC understood from the SDNPA that there was no permitted development allowed for this property and therefore could not comment on the distance between the cabin and the boundary walls of the two listed buildings In addition, the smells and noise from the BBQ did affect the amenity of nearby properties, and views over to Church Hill from the neighbouring listed buildings were affected as a result of the size of the cabin and chimney cowl. The previous shed that was demolished to make space for the new building was only 2.5m high as opposed to circa 3.86m high for the cabin and chimney cowl.

Resolved: that the Clerk informs the SDNPA that Findon Parish Council objects to the application.

Other applications were discussed, please see website for details.

Annual Parish Meeting

All Parishioners are invited to attend the Annual Parish Meeting to be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 24th May in the Village Hall. www.findon.arun.gov.uk

Business Directory 47

through the door

Business Directory Advertisers call 01903 868 474 or email info@sussexlocal.net or book online at www.sussexlocal.net. 3cm box ÂŁ10 + VAT per month (including design) min 6 months. Any category Accountants

Building / Carpentry

Carpet Cleaning cont.

Aerial & Satellite

Your advertisement here

ÂŁ10 a month plus VAT - includes design Book and pay online at www.sussexlocal.net or call 01903 868 474

Chimney Sweeps

Bike Shops

Carpet Cleaning

SUSSEX LOCAL

48 Business Directory Chiropody

Clock Repairs

Electricians cont.

Computer Services

Computer Services cont.

Exterior Cleaning

Fencing

Clearance

Drainage Garden Services

Electricians

Business Directory 49

through the door Garden Services cont.

Groundworks

Handyman / Property Svs

Painting & Deco cont.

Locksmiths

Gutters & Fascias

Pest Control Painting & Decorating Hair Dresser

Advertise on these pages

ÂŁ10 a month

plus VAT - includes design call 01903 868 474

SUSSEX LOCAL

50 Business Directory Plastering

Plumbing / Heating cont.

Plumbing / Heating cont.

Private Hire / Taxi

Plumbing / Heating Roofing

through the door Roofing cont.

Security

Tree Surgery

Business Directory / Advertiser Index 51 Tree Surgery cont.

Bathrooms Bathe in Safety Blinds Direct Blinds tensARC The Blind Lady Car Servicing Keen & Betts Stedmans Garage Carpets & Flooring Carpets & Vinyls Direct Wall Bros Charity St Barnabas House and Chestnut Tree House Cleaning Miss Mop Ltd Molly Maid Middleton On Sea Computer Services The Laptop Workshop Vipernet Technology Services Conservatories and Garden Rooms Greenspace (UK) Limited Domestic Appliances Carters Domestic Appliances Drains Drainjet Elderly Care Clapham Village Care Home Event The Garden Show

44 26 5 41 23 52 21 13 11 34 34 22 21 15 2 27 28 6

Fires and Fireplaces Home is Where the Hearth Is 27 Funeral Director AG Morriss Funeral Service 29 Furniture CFS Furniture 20 Furniture Restorers Barcombe Wood Finish Ltd 27 Garden Design Earth Architecture 39 Glorious Gardens 37 Greenacre Garden Design & Build 36 Garden Machinery Servicing Arun Mowers Ltd 38 Gardeners Joshua The Gardener 36 Home Entertainment Bowers & Wilkins 31 Horse Manure Sussex Manures Ltd 37 House & Rubbish Clearance Regan and Carter 36 Independent Financial Advisors Investment Solutions Wealth Management Ltd 30 Nsure Financial Services 25 The Mellor Practice 8 Jewellers Alexander Jewellers Ltd 29 Kitchen Doors Dream Doors 40 Osteopath Rebecca Wangi Osteopath 10 Oven Cleaning Oven Cleaning King 35 Ovenu 35 Personal Training KL Personal Training 10 Property Maintenance Valentine Property Maintenance 35 Pub/Restaurant The Village House Hotel 7 Slimming Slimming World Findon 10 Solicitors Fleming & Co 31 Miller Parris Solicitors 9 Surveyors Property Doctor Surveys 71 Tennis Club Storrington Lawn Tennis Club 19 Tree Surgeon Ashwood Tree Surgery 39 Vet Arun Veterinary Group 42 Crossways Animal Care Ltd 44 Visitor Attraction Amberley Museum 6 Windows Doors Conservatories Attwater Home Improvements 41 Unbeatable Conservatories 33