AAH (All About Horsham) June 2026

TALK OF THE TOWN

The inaugural meeting of Horsham Parish Council was held at Park Barn, North Street, Horsham, on Tuesday 19 May.

The formation of Horsham Parish Council –which was renamed as Horsham Town Council at the meeting – comes in response to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) proposals, which will see two-tier authorities reorganise into a single-tier of local government.

For us, this will mean Horsham District Council and West Sussex County Council will cease to exist and a new council – called a Unitary Authority – will take their place.

Concerned about what this could mean for the town’s future, Horsham District Council put forward the idea of creating a Horsham Parish Council, as Parish Councils will remain even after the reorganisation.

The interests of the town have previously been served by three Neighbourhood Councils – Denne, Forest and Trafalgar. However, there has never before been a Horsham Parish Council, like those in place in the rural parts of the District. Therefore, the “unparished” town of Horsham could have been left without this added layer of local representation after the local government restructure.

So, the Council held a two-part consultation with local residents, businesses and community groups, with 75% of respondents supporting the formation of a parish council to help protect local arts, events, landmarks, parks, allotments, playing fields and cemeteries in the town. This is important, as Horsham District Council owns and manages key sites, such as Horsham Park and Chesworth Farm, and supports town markets and popular events, including Friday Lates.

On 7 May, as well as voting in the West Sussex County Council elections (see results on p18) Horsham residents elected 18 councillors for the first ever Horsham Parish Council.

Horsham Parish Council is now comprised of 16 Liberal Democrat and two Conservative councillors. The elected representatives (Liberal Democrat, unless stated) are: Jon Olson, Nick Grant and Matthew Foss (Con) in Chesworth & Oakhill; Garry Mortimer-Cook and Jonathan Taylor in Denne; David Skipp and Jay Mercer in Forest; Aubrey Claridge, David Thompson (Con) and Ruth Fletcher in Highwood & Blackbridge; Amelie RolandGosselin in Horsham Park; Sam Raby in Kingslea; Steve Makin in Millpond; Nick Robbins and Sam Albrow in New Town; and Christopher Franke, Martin Boffey and Tony Frankland in Trafalgar.

‘Horsham Parish Council serves over 22,000 people and is responsible for representing the community.’

Cllr Chris Franke will serve as its first Chair and Tony Frankland as Vice-Chair, with Gill Gray as Clerk.

Horsham Parish Council serves over 22,000 residents and is responsible for representing the community, supporting local services and taking decisions on issues that matter to the town. Following the inaugural meeting on 19 May, the Annual Parish Meeting was held at Brighton Road Baptist Church on 27 May.

The Neighbourhood Councils of Denne, Forest and Trafalgar are to be formally dissolved, with the new Parish Council continuing their good work. Also, the community-led planning group Horsham Blueprint Business Neighbourhood Forum –which pushed for the formation of the new Parish Council – is set to be dissolved on 23 July. The final meetings for Trafalgar NC and Forest NC were held in May, with Denne NC’s last meeting scheduled for 4 June. www.horshamparishcouncil.gov.uk

The first meeting of Horsham Parish Council at Park Barn (©AAH/Ben Morris) Front row: Aubrey Claridge, David Thompson, Ruth Fletcher, Gill Gray (Clerk), Amelie Roland-Gosselin, Jon Olson

Back row: Chris Franke, Matthew Foss, Nick Robbins, David Skipp, Nick Grant, Martin Boffey, Sam Albrow.

INSIDE JUNE’S EDITION

NEW COUNCIL

Horsham Parish Council has held its inaugural meeting after elections were held on 7 May.

Page 3

OTHELLOS

Ariel Theatre Company’s Junior Othellos class offers drama coaching for SEN students.

Pages 31 - 33

MOTORCYCLES

Billy’s Motorcycles in Pulborough has teamed up with an instructor to open a new training centre.

Pages 55 - 57

NEWS

Poets prepare for a celebration of Shelley’s life and acts announced for new season of Friday Lates.

Pages 9 - 18

HORSHAM PARK

The Friends of Horsham Park have partnered with Fields in Trust to protect it for future generations.

Pages 37 - 40

FREEMASONS

Horsham Freemasons host an Open Day, welcoming visitors to its Masonic Centre.

Pages 59 - 63

HOLLIE ROGERS

The Horsham singer/songwriter has teamed up with a Grammy winner for her latest album.

Pages 23 - 25

LIGHTING

Horsham Lighting has opened in East Street, run by husband and wife Oliver and Sarah Gamlin.

Pages 43 - 45

EDITOR’S NOTES

The perils of motorcycling through the bug-infested agricultural regions of north-west France. Page 65

ST MARY’S

Horsham Parish Church is raising funds to repair its 160-year-old Henry Willis & Sons organ.

Pages 26 - 28

THE CAPITOL

We peek inside The Capitol in Horsham as the theatre undergoes extensive renovation.

Pages 47 - 50

FINAL WORD

Horsham’s Gareth de la Torre recently completed his third Marathon wearing a 40lb bag. Page 66

AAH (ALL ABOUT HORSHAM) COVER STORY

Our June 2026 cover features Sarah and Oliver Gamlin at Horsham Lighting, which recently opened at 58 East Street.

Their arrival means that the town once again has an independent lighting specialist, following the closure of Sussex Lighting in 2023.

We visited the shop on 20 May, close to our editorial deadline, eager to include news of the opening in the June edition. Although the shop was open to customers, the Gamlins and other members of staff were still in the process of arranging displays, with an official launch planned for 30 May. However, Alan was able to use one of the finished exhibits, featuring a wonderful array of brightly-lit hanging pendants, as a backdrop. His final job was to employ Photoshop skills to hide a bit of Ollie’s T-shirt, which is seen here in the unedited version.

Other cover contenders

Options included Carol Trowbridge, a Friends of Horsham Park volunteer, in the Sensory Garden of Park House, and Scott Chalmers’ image of talented Horsham singer, Hollie Rogers.

FROM FIRST STEPS TO WHAT’S NEXT

KNOWN SUPPORTED

I am seen, listened to and valued for who I am.

Foundation Entry Programme

Our new Foundation Entry Programme is designed to help students joining in September 2026 to get up to speed quickly and build academic confidence in their progress. Available for entry into all year groups from Year 6 to Year 9, plus entry into Year 10 to begin GCSE courses in September.

Teaching adapts to how I learn, with meaningful feedback and care built into every day.

Sixth Form Scholarships

Call our Admissions Team on 01403 282573 to find out about our new Higher Award Academic Scholarships, available from September 2026. Farlington Sixth Form offers a nurturing, academic environment, with flexible payment plans to support affordability, and exceptional outcomes.

FOCUSED PROGRESSING READY

Calm classrooms help me concentrate, grow in confidence and enjoy learning.

My strengths and gaps are identified early, so I can move forward with purpose.

Sixth Form Open Evening, Thursday 18th June 2026

(open to students currently in Year 10)

Whole School Open Morning, Saturday 3rd October 2026

Scan the QR code or visit www farlingtonschool.com to register for our Open Events.

I am preparing for the next stage –academically, emotionally and socially.

DISTRICTNEWS

MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE DISTRICT

The popular Friday Lates live music and entertainment nights return to Horsham this summer.

Organised by Horsham District Council and Food Rocks Markets, Lates combines free live music at the Carfax Bandstand with an array of food and drink stalls every Friday night in June, July and August from 6 – 8pm. Acts scheduled to perform include Americana band The Gamblers (5 June), funk and soul

The Billingshurst Show will be held at Lower Station Road Recreation Ground on Sunday 28 June, 12pm. The Carnival Procession, which has a Magic of the Musicals theme, begins in Jengers Mead car park at 12pm, proceeding down the High Street, past Weald School and into Natts Lane, then turning left into Lower Station Road and onto the field, where there will be a wide range of games, activities and stalls. Confirmed music acts include Rock Choir and Petworth Town Band. www.billingshurstshow.org.uk

act The Blunter Brothers (12 June), Thin White Duke Band (19 June), K-Pop Superstars (26 June), The Ultimate Boyband Party Show (3 July), a Cuban Salsa Night (10 July), Jersey Boys tribute act Frankie’s Guys (17 July), club and dance music from Ministry of Anthems (24 July), and a Pride evening featuring tribute act Kylie on Show (31 July).

We will publish details of August’s acts in a later edition.

Leading British lifestyle brand The White Company opened a store at 45 West Street, Horsham on 8 May. Founded by Chrissie Rucker OBE over 30 years ago, The White Company is one of the UK’s fastest-growing retailers and lifestyle brands, with over 70 stores across the country. What started as a range of white essentials for the linen cupboard has grown to offer a wide range of seasonal collections across homeware, fashion, fragrance and baby gifts. www.thewhitecompany.com

www.horsham.gov.uk/community/events-inhorsham-district/friday-lates

l Meanwhile, Horsham Museum in the Causeway hosts Museum Lates, including music from choirs Ukrainian Voices and Nebo i Zemlia on Friday 19 June, 6 - 8pm. The museum also hosts The Witchcraft and Vagrancy Act (24 July) and Betty Accorsi Duo (21 August). Free entry.

www.horshammuseum.org/events

Ashington Rovers won the Tony Kopp Cup Final against Billingshurst Thirds at the Rod Gaskin Ltd Stadium, Billingshurst, on 1 May. It was a momentous night for Rovers’ captain Tommy Charlwood, whose dad scored the winning goal the last time the club won the cup in 1992. The goals came from Jack Loisy, Marley Manville (2), Tommy Charlwood, Charles Wiltshire and Daniel Barker, with Nick Tilley and Luca Reid the Billingshurst scorers. For a full report with pictures, visit the new AAH website at www.aahorsham.co.uk

AAH News is available in audio format in association with Roundabout Talking News. horsham.mytn.uk

©Toby Phillips Photography 2022

Wayne Higgins, who works at AJW Group, has completed a 152-mile cycle ride from the company’s Slinfold headquarters to Leicester in a single day, raising funds for YoungMinds Trust. Wayne was joined by colleagues Alex Turner, Jacob Briggs, Simon Bryant and Steve Norman, as well as a family friends Tim Canham and Pete Trott. They rode in memory of his daughter Lily, who tragically took her own life last year at the age of 18. With support from AJW Group, a Just Giving page has raised nearly £9,000.

After 400 days cycling around the world, record-breaking father and son duo George and Josh Kohler were welcomed back to the UK by members of Horsham Cycling on 28 April. George and Josh set off in March 2025, cycling 30,000km and visiting 31 countries. They arrived in Lisbon to cycle up through Europe, stopping in Horsham for a Champagne reception at Panino’s before riding back home to Norfolk via London. They have raised over £33,000 for UNICEF. www.kohlerscycle.com

©James Carey Photography

Horsham Children’s Parade will be “Celebrating Childhood” on Sunday 5 July. Hundreds of children from schools across the District will showcase creations and costumes made in workshops with professional community artists from Same Sky. Music comes from Boom Tribe, Brighton School of Samba, Celebration Samba and the Kings of Dhol. The parade starts in Denne Road at 11am and ends in Horsham Park, marking the opening of the Rotary Club’s Funday Sunday. Free for all to enjoy. The event is supported by grants from Arts Council England, HDC and Shanley Foundation, with sponsorship from Rocketeers and Saxon Weald. horshamchildrensparade

The Rotary Club of Horsham hosts its annual Rotary Funday Sunday in Horsham Park on Sunday 5 July. This popular, free community event begins with the arrival of the Children’s Parade (see above) at around 12pm, with music, sports, children’s activities, food and drink, and over 50 stalls. M&L Benson’s Pleasure Fair will be in the park too, along with entertainers, performers and traders. l M&L Pleasure Fair will also be in Horsham Park on Friday 26 – Sunday 28 June, as well as 2 – 5 July. www.mlpleasurefairs.co.uk

Wednesday 8th July

Collectors’ Toys

Silver & Plate Jewellery

Thursday 9th July

Furniture

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art

Needleworks & Textiles

Rugs & Carpets

Wednesday 15th July

Coins, Banknotes & Medallions

Thursday 16th July

Wristwatches & Pocket Watches

Clocks & Barometers

Scientific Instruments & Cameras

Wednesday 22nd July

Antiquarian & Collectors’ Books

Thursday 23rd July

Studio Pottery including the Eric James Mellon Collection

Tuesday 4th August

Firearms & Edged Weapons

Militaria, Medals & Awards

Wednesday 5th August

Prints, Maps & Posters

Decorative Pictures

Silver & Plate

Jewellery

Thursday 6th August

Furniture

Advertising & Transport

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art Rugs & Carpets

Wednesday 12th August

Paper Collectables

(Stamps, Cigarette & Trade Cards, Postcards, Photographs, Autographs & Ephemera)

Thursday 3rd September

Asian & Islamic Ceramics & Works of Art

Wednesday 9th September

Fine Art

Silver & Plate Jewellery

Thursday 10th September

Furniture

Objects of Virtu

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art

Rugs & Carpets

Thursday 24th September

British & Continental Ceramics & Glassware

Wednesday 7th October

Collectors’ Toys

Silver & Plate

Jewellery

Thursday 8th October

Furniture

Arts & Crafts Furniture & Applied Art

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art

Needleworks & Textiles

Rugs & Carpets

Wednesday 14th October

Coins, Banknotes & Medallions

Thursday 15th October

Wristwatches & Pocket Watches

Clocks & Barometers

Scientific Instruments & Cameras

Wednesday 4th November

Prints, Maps & Posters

Decorative Pictures

Silver & Plate Jewellery

Thursday 5th November

Furniture

Tribal Art, Antiquities & Natural History

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art Rugs & Carpets

Wednesday 11th November

Paper Collectables

(Stamps, Cigarette & Trade Cards, Postcards, Photographs, Autographs & Ephemera)

Thursday 12th November

Asian & Islamic Ceramics & Works of Art

Wednesday 25th November

Firearms & Edged Weapons

Militaria, Medals & Awards

Antiquarian & Collectors’ Books

Tuesday 1st December

Wine & Spirits

Wednesday 2nd December

Fine Art

Silver & Plate

Jewellery

Thursday 3rd December

Furniture

Objects of Virtu

Collectors’ Items & Works of Art

Rugs & Carpets

Thursday 10th December

British & Continental Ceramics & Glassware

Friday 11th December

Wristwatches & Pocket Watches

Clocks & Barometers

Scientific Instruments & Cameras

The Horsham School of Botanical Artists Exhibition will be held in the Seed Room at Parham House, Pulborough, RH20 4HR on Wednesday 17 June – Sunday 5 July, 12 – 6pm. The three-week exhibition sees locally-based botanical artists and illustrators including Leigh Ann Gale, Linda Lasham, Helen Andre, Heather Glenny, Hazel Barnard, Eleanor Coate and Deborah Crago exhibiting a wide range of drawings and paintings. www.parhaminsussex.co.uk

Award-winning botanical artist Nessie Ramm leads a one-day botanical painting workshop at the Apple Shed at the Rewilded Walled Garden, Knepp, on Monday 22 June, 10am – 4pm. Nessie will share the acrylic painting techniques she used to create the wild mural at Wadhurst Park. You do not need to consider yourself a botanical artist to take part, as the course is about observing directly from nature and making a painting which reflects your own interests. The course costs £175. www.knepp.co.uk/visit-knepp/whats-on/

Horsham Artists hosts its annual Art Trail, featuring work by 52 artists at 18 venues, on the weekends of 6 – 7 and 13 – 14 June. Many of the venues are artists’ private studios or houses, while some are other venues including the atrium at John Lewis, where painters Katy Edgington and Ange Dowe, and textile artist Esther van Oostrum, will display some of their work.

Other artists involved in the Trail include painters Angela Brittain, Jo Willis, Cherry Parsons, Clair Ballantyne, Catherine Flanders

and Colleen Conti; textile artists Hannah Smith, Vicky Glyn and Jane Thorndyke; sculptors Si Uwins, Irma Westerdijk and Steve Bicknell; ceramic artists Sarah Russell, Pippa Honess and James Colver; jewellers Denise Bliss and Bruce Ringrose; and fused-glass artists Angela Manuel and Jane Cole. Visitors to all 18 venues can be entered into a draw to win a £50 prize, to be spent on their favourite piece of work on the Trail. Free entry to all venues. www.horshamartists.org

in May

After 19 years, Costrong Farm Shop is back in the village of Kirdford, having been beautifully renovated under new ownership.

Opening this May, the farm shop includes a coffee shop, nursery plants and gifts, plus a fantastic range of fresh, local produce.

l Home-bred organic beef, pork, lamb

l Free-range chicken

l Organic dairy, cheeses and butter

l Local honey, jams, chutneys & pickles

Coming this Summer: A dog-friendly walking trail around the lake, vineyard and woodland. We can’t wait to welcome you!

l Made to Measure curtains & 7-day express

l Choose and buy curtains in your own home

l Friendly service with no obligation to buy

l Bespoke products at competitive prices

l Design & technical advice

l Contemporary & traditional fabrics

l Awnings, canopies, poles & soft furnishings

l All kinds of blinds and shutters

l Professional fitting & installation

Angela Brittain (©AAH/Alan Wright)

St. Mary’s Church in the Causeway, Horsham, holds its annual Flower Festival on Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 July. This year’s theme is ‘For the Joy of Music’ with flower arrangers from local churches and other organisations contributing spectacular floral displays around the church. Free entry, with donations to the St Mary’s Church Organ Appeal and Holy Trinity Church Fabric Fund, with a percentage also donated to Horsham Matters. There will also be a concert on the evening of Saturday 18 July. www.stmaryshorsham.org.uk

An exhibition of masterpieces by an internationally-renowned group of British artists will be held at Champs Hill, Pulborough on 16 – 18 June, 11am – 4pm. In the 1880s, a Cornish fishing village hosted and gave its name to the Newlyn School. Inspired by French rural realist painters, the artists’ colony documented fishing and farming communities. Over a century later, David Bowerman founded a charity that holds a collection of Newlyn School paintings, including works by Stanhope and Elizabeth Forbes, watercolourist Walter Langley and Dame Laura Knight. For the first time, this collection is going on a national tour. Tickets £10. www.thebct.org.uk

A new tern raft has been installed at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, providing an improved nesting area for common terns. The raft was supplied and installed by Green Future Building, a not-for-profit social enterprise, with support from HDC’s countryside wardens. Funding from the Friends of Warnham Local Nature Reserve made the project possible. www.warnhamnaturereservefriends.org.uk

Mannings Heath Golf Club hosts a round of The Clutch Tour on 10 - 14 August. The Clutch Pro Tour is Europe and MENA’s leading open-access professional golf development tour, providing a pathway for players progressing towards the DP World Tour and other highest levels of the game. Following practice on Monday, there will be a Pro-Am event on Tuesday 11, before a three-day tournament begins on the Waterfall Course on Wednesday 12. Free for spectators. www.manningsheath.com

To help you explore your options, you

non-committal

and no

and

One of the key events in the Shipley Arts Festival will be held at Knepp on Sunday 12 July, 6pm. The Wilding Concert: Nature in Music brings together the Stradivarius Piano Trio and tenor Anando Mukerjee (pictured) for an evening inspired by the natural world. The programme features Richard Strauss’ Morgen, the UK premiere of Helen Ottaway’s Margianes, Kreisler’s Londonderry Air, Scott Joplin’s Maple Leaf Rag, Bizet’s Flower Song, and Sherwin’s A Nightingale in Berkeley Square. Accompanied by Nyetimber wine and canapés. Tickets £50. www.bernardimusicgroup.com

Horsham Chamber Choir presents The Strange and the Exotic at St Mary’s Church in the Causeway, Horsham on Saturday 20 June, 7:30pm. The evening features compositions that explore the otherworldly in choral music, including works by Thomas Weelkes, Brahms, Elgar and Vaughan Williams. Tickets £17.50. www.horsham-chamberchoir.org.uk

The Shelley Memorial Project presents Shelley at the Shore at Warnham local Nature Reserve on Tuesday 14 July, 6 – 8pm. This evening of drama and poetry explores the early life of the great Romantic and Radical poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. The evening will be jointly hosted by Ted Gooda (pictured) from the Shelley Memorial Project and Tony Earnshaw from Mole Valley Poets. Members of Lights and Bushels Theatre Company present scenes from Kathryn Attwood’s acclaimed play Mad Shelley, before an Open Mic session, with audience members invited to read a poem of their own or a favourite Shelley piece. Bysshe’s Bar will be open for drinks. Tickets £10. www.eventbrite.co.uk

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Horsham Symphony Orchestra hosts a concert at St Mary’s Church, Horsham, on Saturday 4 July, 7:30pm. The concert includes Introit St John’s by Stephen Montague, Sibelius’ Symphony No. 6 and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade Tickets £20 (U16s/students £5) from ticketsource.co.uk/horshamsymphony

Horsham Harmony Choir will hold its Summer Concert at Horsham YMCA FC, Gorings Mead, RH13 5BP, on Sunday 28 June, 3pm. Funds will be donated to Turning Tides, a charity which supports the homeless. Members of the choir recently celebrated 10 years of making music. They welcome new members at practice sessions at Brighton Road Baptist Church most Wednesdays at 11am. www.horshamharmonychoir.co.uk

Christ’s Hospital Choral Society presents Summertime in The Chapel at Christ’s Hospital School on Saturday 20 June, 7.30pm. The programme includes music from Bernstein’s West Side Story, Bob Chilcott’s Little Jazz Mass and Copland’s Old American Songs Choral Suite Tickets £10 in advance (children £5). www.chchoralsoc.org

Lumos present a Hans Zimmer and Ludovico Einaudi Summer Candlelight Experience at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens on Saturday 11 July, 7.30pm. The string trio perform music by the two contemporary greats, set against the backdrop of Leonardslee House. Tickets £25. www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

A Country & Western Night will be held at The Holbrook Club on Saturday 4 July, 7.30pm. Enjoy line-dancing with Cindy Lou’s Line and Country Dancing, with music from Smoketree Union at 8pm. Tickets £12. www.theholbrookclub.co.uk

Jazz

Pure

,

Road, Loxwood, RH14 0SF, on Tuesday 16 June, 8pm. Four exceptional musicians faithfully recreate the music of The Dave Brubeck Quartet, including favourites Take Five and

www.simonbates.uk/gigs/loxwood-jazz

Loxwood

Club hosts

Brubeck

featuring Harry The Piano (above) at North Hall, Guildford

Unsquare Dance. Tickets £15.

Soffits & Gutters

Distribution & Deliveries

Pick up a free copy of AAH from our bespoke stands, located across the Horsham District.

Horsham Town stands: Swan Walk (outside M&S and D&D Cafe); Henry Adams, At Home Estate Agents, Crates Local (all Carfax), Gwyn’s Bakery, Johansson’s Cafe (Bishopric); Jones & Tomlin Horsham (Medwin Walk), John Lewis, Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, Horsham Football Club, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, Holbrook Club, Steban’s Salon District Stands: Newbridge Nurseries, The Bridge (BBH), Shades Barbers, Revival (Southwater), Southwater Library, Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Coco’s Salon (Billingshurst), Bluecoat Sports Centre (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores, Slinfold Golf Club, Mannings Heath Golf Club, The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Meadow Stores (Thakeham), Kinsbrook (West Chiltington) Golden Plaice (Ashington), Rusper Village Stores, Roffey News & Post Office, The Bakery (Partridge Green), Henfield Leisure Centre, Steyning Leisure Centre, Cobblestone Walk (Steyning), Spring Gardens (Washington), Chanctonbury Leisure Centre, Joanna’s Tearooms (Storrington), Knepp Wilding Shop (Dial Post), The Clubhouse (Kilnwood Vale), Fishers Farm (Wisborough Green).

Supermarkets: AAH is also available at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath & Sainsbury’s in Horsham, in partnership with Self Select Distribution.

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Editorial & Advertising

AAH is an entirely independent magazine founded in 2011. It is owned by Ben Morris, a former Forest pupil and a life-long resident of the District.

Editorial: Ben Morris

editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Tel: (01903) 892899

Address: 2 Viney Close, Ashington, West Sussex, RH20 3PT

Photography: Alan Wright

Alan works for AAH on a freelance basis and can be booked for all commercial work. alan.wright@alanwrightphotography.co.uk www.alanwrightphotography.co.uk

Advertising: Ben Morris

advertising@aahorsham.co.uk

Tel: (01903) 892899

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We offer every 6th advert free of charge.

Advertising deadline for May’s AAH: 16 April

AAH July 2026: June’s edition will be published on Monday 1 June at www.aahorsham.co.uk Printed copies will be distributed from Friday 3 July.

The results of the West Sussex County Council elections were announced on Friday 8 May.

362 candidates stood for election and 70 were elected as councillors to represent their local communities. Reform UK and The Liberal Democrats both now have 23 councillors, while WSCC also has representation from the Conservative Party (11 councillors), The Green Party (7), The Labour Party (5) and The Local Alliance (1 councillor).

321,657 people voted, representing a turnout of over 47%, the highest level of voting since 2005, with Horsham producing the highest turnout in the

Southwater Infant and Junior Academies PTFA host a Summer Fair on Saturday 13 June, 12 – 4pm. The fair, sponsored by At Home, is an opportunity for the communities of both academies to come together. There will be shopping and food stalls, arts and crafts, BBQ and live entertainment, with activities including a 70ft obstacle course and dinosaur slide. A grand summer prize draw, sponsored by MJP Electrical Contractors, includes cash prizes of £250, £100 and £50. www.southwaterjunioracademy.co.uk

Memorabilia related to Storrington Cricket Club is being displayed in the Club Corner at Sussex Cricket Museum, Hove County Cricket Ground, until the end of the year. Items include photos from the second half of the 19th century, a scorebook from 1858, the Storrington & District Cricket League Challenge Cup 1908 (winning team pictured above), and a signed first edition of Hugh de Selincourt’s The Cricket Match, whose players were based on Storrington’s cricketers in the 1920s. Admission free. www.sussexcricketmuseum.org.uk

county (49.57%).

With no one political party winning more than half the seats on the council, a new Liberal Democrat-led cross-party alliance has been formed. Leaders of the Lib Dems, Green Party and Labour Group have agreed to work together, alongside Cllr Donna Johnson of the Local Alliance, who was appointed Chair at the first meeting of the new Council on 22 May. Cllr Jay Mercer, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, was appointed Leader of the Council.

Pictured: Cllr Martin McCabe, Cllr Ian Davey, Cllr Donna Johnson and Cllr Jay Mercer.

A number of volunteering opportunities are available in the Horsham District. Spending just a few hours of your time each week as a volunteer driver for The Phoenix Stroke Club can make a huge impact. 1st Henfield Scouts need a Beavers Leader to help create adventure and fun for young people, while SEN SHED is seeking an administrator to help their new charity thrive. For details of these and other opportunities, email volunteering@horshamdistrict.gov.uk. www.volunteerhorshamdistrict.co.uk

Cllr Joanne Knowles was elected Chair of Horsham District Council for the civic year 2026 – 27 at the Annual Meeting of the Council at Albery House, Horsham, on 29 April. Cllr Nigel Emery was appointed Vice-Chair.

Cllr Knowles said: ‘A key focus of my year in office will be supporting young people’s involvement in volunteering. I’m keen to help make volunteering more accessible, recognising the role it plays in strengthening communities, building civic pride and improving wellbeing.’ www.horsham.gov.uk

When Movement Expands Again

Part 4: The Cost of Putting Up With It

Last month, we explored how quietly adapting to discomfort can gradually narrow the world around us.

The encouraging news is that this narrowing isn’t permanent. With the right kind of support, something else often happens. Confidence begins to return. People who have been carefully managing their movement over time – shortening walks, avoiding uneven ground, or quietly stepping back from activities they once enjoyed –often discover that the body is more capable than it seemed. Not overnight. And not all at once. But gradually.

Rediscovering what the body can do

Many people arrive expecting to hear that they simply need to accept things slowing down. Instead, they often leave with a clearer, more reliable understanding of what is actually happening in their body, and why things have felt the way they have.

Often, the turning point isn’t doing more, it’s understanding more precisely what the body needs. Sometimes the change is practical; adjusting footwear, improving how the foot is supported and stabilised, or strengthening muscles that support the foot and lower limb in a more coordinated way. Sometimes it’s reassurance; understanding that discomfort doesn’t necessarily mean damage, and that the right kind of movement can help restore confidence rather than reinforce hesitation. Often it’s a combination of both.

When movement is looked at in enough detail, patterns often become clearer. And when people feel steadier and more supported, something important shifts. Movement stops feeling like something to manage around and starts to feel possible again.

‘Movement has a remarkable ability to rebuild confidence when it’s properly supported.’

Small

changes, wider possibilities

Regaining confidence in movement rarely requires dramatic intervention. More often it’s a series of small, well-directed adjustments based on how that individual moves, gradually widening the circle of what feels manageable. A walk that had become shorter becomes a little longer again. Stairs feel steadier. An outing that once felt uncertain begins to feel routine – and with it, a gradual return to the thing people enjoy most.

These changes might appear modest from the outside, but for the person experiencing them they can be deeply meaningful. Because movement is rarely just about physical capability, it shapes independence, participation and everyday freedom. And when the underlying pattern is understood, those changes are far more likely to last.

Protecting independence

The ability to move comfortably and with confidence allows people to continue doing the things that make life feel full; visiting friends, exploring familiar places, spending time outdoors, or simply moving through daily routines with ease. When mobility improves, people often find that their world expands again. Activities return. Confidence grows. Participation follows.

It’s not about pushing the body beyond its limits. It’s about helping people feel steady and supported enough to keep doing the things they love.

A foundation for the years ahead

Movement is one of the quiet foundations of independence throughout life.

Approaches that once focused purely on rest or avoidance are now better understood. When people are supported in the right way, movement itself often becomes part of what restores confidence rather than something to withdraw from. When people understand their bodies and receive the right support at the right time, the long-term picture often changes significantly.

In the next article, we’ll explore how the changes that often appear during midlife can begin to reshape how our bodies move, and why understanding those changes early can make a meaningful difference.

Natalie Kitchener Podiatrist & Clinic Director Feet and Motion, Horsham

HCPC Registered Podiatrist Member of Royal College of Podiatry

Unit 2, 55a Park Terrace East, Horsham, RH13 5DJ (01403) 249083

horsham@feetandmotion.co.uk www.feetandmotion.co.uk

HORSHAM SINGER HOLLIE ROGERS HITS NEW HEIGHTS FINE CUTS

Hollie Rogers releases her new album, Everything’s Fine, on 5 June. The record is the most ambitious yet by the Horsham singer/songwriter, featuring the Budapest Symphony Orchestra and a track co-written by Grammy winner Beth Nielsen Chapman. AAH met Hollie at Johansson’s Café as she prepares for the launch party…

Tell us about Everything’s Fine… I really wanted to go for it with this record. I stopped teaching full-time in 2016 to focus solely on music and – in the decade since –have learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t. I know there’s no linear path to success; you can’t do X, Y and Z and expect to things to happen. So, with my new album, I wanted to throw everything at it so that when I’m 80, I can look back and say that –whatever happens – I gave it everything. I have ensured it’s professionally produced and well marketed. I launched a Crowdfunding campaign which raised £13,000, so I’m hugely grateful for the support I’ve received. This

means I was able to record songs with great musicians, while the vocals were engineered by five-time Grammy-nominated producer James McMillan, who has worked with the likes of Whitney Houston and Raye.

What’s the feel of the album?

Some songs have been in development for several years. One was even considered for my last record, Criminal Heart, but didn’t suit its darker, introspective themes. My songs are always personal, but I feel Everything’s Fine is more light-hearted. When you’re young and experiencing love or pain for the first time, emotions are keenly felt. As you become older – perhaps a little jaded – you become more reflective. The album’s title is sarcastic, in that reflects how we try to hold it together while things fall apart around us. But it reflects who I am at this moment in time.

It’s a few years since your last record… Criminal Heart was released in 2022 with a sell-out launch show at The Capitol. At that time, although I wasn’t teaching full-time,

I was regularly covering classes at Heron Way School. I remember nervously pacing the dressing room before the show and hearing lots of young voices in the theatre. After the first song, the children shouted, “We love you, Miss Rogers!” That was wonderful, although I had to be careful not to swear!

You’re not launching your new record in Horsham though…

I would have launched it at The Capitol, but it’s closed. I have played The Harlington in Fleet before, so know it’s the ideal size with great acoustics and lighting. I also feel I’ve progressed over recent years, in terms of my musical journey. Having played venues across the UK, I’ve grown my fan-base. Although I still have great support in Horsham, I can attract reasonable crowds elsewhere too. There are still enough people who support original live music and so I’ve slowly grown a small fan-base through word-of-mouth. At my current rate of progress, I’ll be playing Wembley Stadium in a few hundred years’ time!

The first single, Spaceman, features incredible orchestration…

I was fortunate in that I was able to work with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra on Spaceman. Normally, it wouldn’t have been affordable. However, the orchestra had been booked by the studio for several days, with short sessions organised for various artists. There was a lot of work done beforehand to arrange Spaceman for the orchestra. As I can’t read music, I was literally humming the tune I wanted for different sections of the orchestra and through trial and error – and the talents of an arranger – we got it right. As soon as the orchestra started playing, I burst into tears. They elevated the track to another level.

‘As soon as the orchestra started playing, I burst into tears. They elevated the song to another level.’

It also includes several co-written tracks… About half of the songs on Everything’s Fine are co-written, which is new for me. When I write, it’s often late at night when emotions are raw. Singing somebody else’s words can be fun, but it’s perhaps not as cathartic and I don’t always connect with the lyrics. Those I’ve recorded are tracks that resonated and the variety they offer is representative of where I am, as a musician.

There is one notable co-writing credit… I was on a songwriting camp hosted by Chris Difford (Squeeze), with musicians invited from all over the world. He loves to mix up groups to inspire ideas, so they’re great networking events. I was in a group with acclaimed blues and roots artist Elles Bailey and Grammy winner Beth Nielsen Chapman, who has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. We talked about our lives as independent women, which inspired a song, Everything’s Fine. It has a touch of humour, which is reflected in the lyrics (There’s a bagel in the fishbowl, Goldie’s gonna drown; I can’t control my children; and my house is burning down; But Everything’s Fine). I went on to record the song, with Elles and Beth providing backing vocals.

Has it been well received?

It was named Classic Rock Magazine’s ‘Track Of The Week’ and was added to Spotify’s Editorial ‘Blues Roots’ playlist with 1.1m followers. It certainly helped having these two great artists on the track, as it’s unlikely it would have been put on an editorial playlist otherwise, and has helped me increase my own monthly listeners to 27,000. By the time the album is out, I will have released four singles, also including Spaceman, Some Kinda Lover and Bad Woman

You like to record with a full band… Although I occasionally perform acoustic sets or as a duo with a keyboardist, I love performing with a full band and write most of

my songs with them in mind, with electric guitar, drums, bass, keys, and me on acoustic guitar. While some tracks suit a stripped-back sound, I often incorporate guitar solos or drum-breaks, reflecting my blues and roots influences. My bassist and co-producer, Stefan Redtenbacher, loves funk music and often gives me great ideas for individual parts. We’ve worked together for years and when it comes to musical direction, our ideas align.

Do you think the current country music boom will help you?

Country music is becoming popular, to the point that I’ve seen British singers putting on American accents. I’ve never felt that I belonged to one particular genre, which can be a curse. I’ve met country music fans who think I’m rooted in blues, and blues fans who say I’m a country singer! This works against me on Spotify, which generates genre-specific playlists. However, these songs are my own and I wouldn’t feel comfortable pretending to be someone or something that I’m not.

You’re not currently signed with a label?

A&R representatives used to scour the country seeking out talent, but they don’t need to anymore. They just look at social media and work with acts with lots of followers. Why take a financial risk in investing in someone when you can work with somebody who already has tens of thousands of followers? For that reason, it’s perhaps no coincidence that a lot of emerging artists are very attractive. Social media is a double-edged sword, as it’s essential when promoting your music, but I hate having to post things at certain times. I’ll be out with friends and suddenly have to stop and post a picture of what

I’m eating. It’s the pits, but I do want to do everything properly this time around and that’s all part of it.

What are your hopes for the record?

When I started out in 2016, I wanted to sign to a label and play big venues. I have re-framed what success looks like. I’m happy doing what I’m doing. I’m paying my bills by performing live and selling records on CD and vinyl. I feel like I’ve made it, to some degree, in that I’m enjoying life. There is a chance that the record could make the Official UK Charts, based on pre-orders and launch night sales, which would be an

achievement as an independent act. That would be lovely.

Further information: Hollie’s album launch is at The Harlington, Fleet, on 7 June, with a full-band show planned for Cranleigh Arts Centre on 13 November. You can find Hollie on Spotify. For a snapshot of her music, AAH recommends readers to check out the videos for Some Kinda Lover and Spaceman and YouTube. Everything’s Fine is out on 5 June. To purchase, visit: www.hollierogers.com/store

Interview: Ben Morris Photos: Scott Chalmers

ORGANDONORS

St Mary’s Parish Church in The Causeway, Horsham, has launched an appeal to repair its 160-year-old organ.

It was built in 1865 by Henry Willis & Sons, a leading organ-builder of the Victorian era. The last significant repair work was carried out in 1992 and – 36 years later –it requires extensive cleaning and repairs.

Mike Overend, Assistant Organist at St Mary’s, said. ‘The organ has about 2000 pipes, from tiny miniature pipes concealed within the chamber to the larger exposed pipes, some of which are five metres high. Over time, they collect dirt and dust and some are starting to collapse under their own weight.

‘We also have issues with the mechanical linkages between the keys and the air valves at the base of the pipes, meaning that parts of the organ no longer “speak” properly. Certain keys don’t produce the rich, symphonic notes that Henry Willis organs are renowned for, while others

don’t work at all. Most of the congregation wouldn’t notice, as a good organist works around missing notes by using one of the other three sets such as playing a pedal key instead. So, although any repairs wouldn’t dramatically alter the sound, it’ll be nice to have a fully functioning organ again.’

COMMUNITY HELP

Reverend Canon Lisa Barnett has launched the St Mary’s Church Organ Appeal, which aims to raise £150,000 by 2027.

The church has already reached the halfway point of its target through generous donations from the congregation. The organ is played at the popular first Wednesday of the month lunchtime concerts too, where audience members have also made contributions. Emily Foster, Organ Appeal Fundraising Lead, hopes to make up some of the shortfall by applying for grants from bodies specialising in heritage projects. However, the church is keen to reach out to the wider community for support…

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‘A Henry Willis & Sons organ was among the most celebrated 19th Century instruments.’

Canon Lisa said: ‘The organ not only serves as the bedrock of our church services, but has a key community role as well. It has featured in memorial services for seven Kings and Queens, special services to mark the end of two World Wars, and continues to be used for Remembrance Day commemorations and Horsham District Council’s annual civic service. It has provided music for countless weddings, funerals and baptisms, as well as many community group and society concerts, so is vital to all we do in the church. We’re off to a good start with the fundraising campaign, but need a wider, sustained effort to reach our goal.’

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We also supply internal partitions, fire-rated doors and door screens, sliding doors and shaped windows and doors. We offer W20, W30 and W40, as well as Standard Metal Window Sections. These can be fitted with double-glazing or single glazing on heritage projects.

The organ chamber is home to some 2,000 pipes (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2021)

Mike Overend (©AAH/Alan Wright)

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

A Henry Willis & Sons organ was among the most celebrated 19th century British musical instruments, with notable installations in St Paul’s Cathedral, Salisbury Cathedral and Royal Albert Hall. An original instrument is a significant historic and musical asset, so repairs need to be carried out by an experienced hand. Only a small number of specialists remain, so it’s likely that some of the organ parts will be transported to Leeds to be repaired.

As well as improving the pipes, leatherwork around the main wind reservoir at the base of the organ will be replaced for the first time since 1865.

Mike said: ‘We had the option of leaving the current leatherwork in place and re-installing the pipes around them once they’ve been cleaned, repaired or replaced. However, we’ve been patching up the leather for decades and specialists advised us that now would be a good time to replace it with fresh leather. If we’re going to do this, let’s do it properly and preserve this important community asset for future generations to enjoy.’

Further information:

For more information, contact organappeal@horshamstmarys.org.uk

Donations to the St Mary’s Church Organ Appeal can be made at: www.stmaryshorshamorgan.org.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography Words: Ben Morris

Mike Overend

Lasting Powers of Attorney: Your Questions Answered

Sorting out a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) may not sound as exciting as planning a holiday or updating your kitchen, but it is one of the most sensible steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones for the future. Below we’ve answered a few common questions that often crop up.

What is an LPA?

It’s a legal document in which you give someone the power to make decisions and act for you if you are struggling to do things yourself. Think of it as putting a trusted person (your attorney) in your corner, in case life takes an unexpected or unwelcome turn. There are two types of LPA. One for property and financial affairs, such as paying bills, managing bank accounts or selling a house. The other covers health and welfare decisions, including medical treatment and care arrangements. It’s a good idea to create both so your loved ones can help you with all the important decisions, if needs be.

Who should I appoint?

Choosing the right attorney (or attorneys) is essential. Most people appoint a spouse, partner, adult child or close friend. The best attorneys are people you trust to put your interests first. Ideally, appoint more than one attorney because you can’t add anyone to your LPA once it’s been registered. But be careful about how attorneys are appointed - getting it wrong can lead to delays, disagreements, unusable LPAs and court applications.

When is the right time to make an LPA? If you are thinking about it, the best time is now. Many people assume LPAs are only

for later life, but an LPA is less about age and more about being prepared. Illness, accidents or unexpected changes in health can happen, and having an LPA in place means those you trust can step in.

What happens if I do not have an LPA?

Without an LPA, your loved ones usually won’t have the authority to help you and make decisions if you become ill, confused or lose mental capacity. A court application will be needed, which is expensive, stressful and lengthy.

Can I prepare an LPA myself?

You can, but LPAs are tricky to complete properly and the law is complicated. Using a solicitor helps ensure everything is done correctly and the LPA reflects your wishes. Mistakes delay registration and may even make the LPA invalid.

Why not ring us today for a free, no obligation chat on 01403 599111 or email us at contact@starkeprivateclient.co.uk

Sarah Kench Head of Private Client

DRAMA FREE

ARIEL OTHELLOS OFFERS INCLUSIVE DRAMA TRAINING

Ariel Company Theatre has secured significant funding from the Postcode Lottery to expand its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) programme.

Ariel Company Theatre was founded in 1993 and provides training in drama, singing and dance for children at Academies in seven Sussex towns – Brighton, Burgess Hill, Crawley, East Grinstead, Haywards Heath, Horsham and Uckfield. Six of its Academies, including Horsham, also offer an inclusive group called Ariel Othellos, where a team of professional tutors teach young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Nicci Hopson, Ariel Company Director, said: ‘Many years ago, we welcomed a wonderful young man called Rob to our first Academy in Burgess Hill. Rob had Down’s Syndrome, yet loved being part of the Company and formed close friendships within the group. Following a conversation with Sue Jay, formerly Head of Creative Arts at Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham,

we established Othellos, offering young people with additional needs with opportunities to express themselves and perform. Since then, the popularity of Othellos has snowballed. As we have opened new Academies across the county, our SEND provision has expanded too, with Uckfield being the only Academy without an Othellos group.’

‘Some students from our mainstream academies – those most passionate about performing – go on to study at performing arts colleges such as Brit School or BN1 Arts, or continue to enjoy acting and singing in amateur groups and societies. However, we realised that options for our SEND juniors were more limited, so established Othellos Plus in Burgess Hill and Brighton, where they can continue to enjoy performing until they are 60, should they wish! We now have over 100 students in our Junior Othellos programme, with another 50 in Othellos Plus, so it has been a huge success.’

BUDDY SCHEME

This commitment to inclusivity has seen Ariel

‘We give young people transitional life skills that

Where specialist expertise meets mainstream opportunity. Proudly part of the Moon Hall family of schools, Moon Hall Copthorne delivers our award-winning dyslexia specialist model within the setting of Copthorne Preparatory School.

For girls and boys aged 7-11, Moon Hall Copthorne will provide tailored teaching, small class sizes, and a proven approach that transforms learning into confidence and success. Registration open now.

Without such support, they sometimes fall into a “no-man’s-land” between the Academies and Othellos, which is why we’re very excited

Ariel Othellos learn to sing, dance at act

The classes adopt a successful “Buddy” scheme

SHINING LIGHTS

Othello Juniors meet at Bohunt School, Horsham, every Saturday from 5 – 6pm. The Horsham class is led by Matt Godfrey, Principal of Ariel Horsham and also an Ariel Development Officer. Each Othello is supported by a volunteer Ariel Academy Buddy. Like the children in the mainstream Academies, Othello Juniors are trained in drama, singing and dance, culminating in an annual showcase.

Ariel also organises workshops, which range from one-day experiences to week-long courses during the holidays. Some of these have been held at schools which offer specialist educational provision, including New Barn School in Horsham. However, Othello Juniors often join students from Ariel’s other academies at the workshops, including one scheduled for August – a production of Disney’s Newsies Jr.

From its foundation, Ariel has also provided free London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) qualifications in acting and musical theatre. Some of its students have gone on to successful careers in the industry, including singer Maisie Peters, who recently released her third studio album, Florescence, and has supported the likes of Taylor Swift and Coldplay. Other Ariel alumni include Musical Theatre actor Fraser Woolcott (Wicked, Moulin Rouge).

There are increasingly opportunities for people with additional needs too, with one former Othello student appearing in ITV drama, Grantchester. While proud of its alumni, Ariel focuses on developing skills that can be utilised to serve society as a whole...

Nicci said: ‘We encourage students to pursue LAMDA exams, particularly if they dreams of working in entertainment. However, it’s not all razzmatazz. We have 800 students and only a very small percentage have aspirations to perform on a West End stage. That’s why it’s important that we help them develop the skills to shine in other fields. Of course, it’s wonderful when a former student progresses to a professional level and we love going up to London to see them perform. However, our students will also be doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers and many other occupations. I hope we give them transitional skills that they can utilise to become more confident individuals, whatever their career. I recently met a former student now working as a nurse, who said that she couldn’t do the job with the compassion and empathy it requires without gaining the communication skills she developed at Ariel. That’s what we are all about.’

Further information:

The Horsham Ariel Othellos group meets at Bohunt School on Saturdays, 5 - 6pm. Email: arielothellos@arielct.com www.arielothellos.com

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

Matt Godfrey leads an Ariel Othellos class at Bohunt

Specsavers Horsham: helping you hear clearly

Imagine listening to the world through a closed door. Voices sound distant, music loses its richness, and the small sounds that make life feel alive seem just out of reach.

For some people, that muffled, underwater feeling isn’t a medical mystery, it could simply be caused by a build-up of earwax.

The good news is that this can be easily fixed and the safest way to get rid of excess or stubborn earwax is to see a professional here at Specsavers Horsham. We offer micro-suction earwax removal services, carried out by our trained, experienced and accredited hearing experts.

For just £55, you receive a professional, safe earwax removal service using micro-suction for one or both ears. If no wax is found, we offer a comprehensive ear health check for only £20, ensuring you leave with peace of mind.

‘We offer micro-suction earwax removal services, carried out by our trained, experienced and accredited hearing experts.’

If it’s not just earwax muffling the world around you, we offer a modern selection of hearing devices that are comfortable, discreet, and technologically advanced. They’re easily rechargeable and can connect seamlessly with your phone and other devices.

We offer a wide range of hearing devices, featuring some of the most advanced technology on the market. We listen to the patient’s needs and select the hearing device that will meet them. All come with a 4-year warranty and full after-care as standard.

So, don’t let earwax or hearing difficulties impact your quality of life. Visit Specsavers Horsham, where our friendly team can ensure you enjoy better hearing and overall ear

To check your ears are healthy, visit: www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/horsham Call (01403) 275115 or drop by the clinic at 2 Worthing Rd, Horsham, RH12 1SL Open Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm

At Specsavers Horsham, we offer micro-suction earwax remval services

Win a glasses makeover at Specsavers Horsham

Is there someone in your life that you would like to recognise and thank, or simply someone who would love a ‘glasses makeover’?

If so, they could win a free pair of Specsavers glasses and lenses, up to a value of £200. With Father’s Day approaching, this could be a fantastic opportunity to enter your dad for that ‘Father’s Day glow up’, or you could nominate a friend, colleague or relative and explain why you think they need a specs makeover going into summer.

Who would you nominate?

We asked some of the staff at Specsavers Horsham who they would nominate for a glasses makeover at Specsavers Horsham. Here are some of the responses...

l ‘I would nominate my mum. In recent years, she has faced multiple challenges with her health. Despite this, she always puts other people’s needs above hers. I would love her to have the opportunity to feel special, like the way she makes everyone else feel.’

l ‘My best friend Paul would definitely be nominated; he has been a great friend over the years, but could 100% do with some fashion advice!’

l ‘Without a doubt, I would put my dad forward. As a single father, he has worked tirelessly to bring me and my sister up alone. He never takes time for himself and prefers to make sure we have everything over his own needs. It would be great to finally be able to give something back to him.’

The winner will also receive a personalised frame styling session to help choose their FREE pair of stylish new specs.

Holly, frame stylist at Specsavers Horsham, explains why choosing the right glasses is so important: ‘As frame specialists, we understand your final choice must not only look fantastic, but be comfortable, ensuring your vision is the best it can be. We have a huge range of styles and designer frames that come with some unique features and benefits that will enhance your wearing experience.

‘As an example, our titanium range allows people who suffer with metal allergies to wear some of the lightest and yet strongest frames that also won’t react to your skin and cause discomfort.

‘So, we understand that everyone is different, and that’s why our trusted experts will work with you to choose glasses and contact lenses that will support your needs and preferences. Not only do we offer the very best in frame choice, but we are proud to provide our customers the very best in value.’

‘We know everyone is different, so we have a huge range of styles and designer frames.’

Winner will be selected by the Specsavers Horsham team and contacted via email by Friday 10 July 2026. We will arrange for the lucky winner to collect their prize in store.

To nomimate someone to win our glasses and lenses makeover, email us to explain why this person deserves to win (in 75 words or less). Entrants must be over 16. Nominations close Friday 3rd July 2026. Email: mgr.horsham.uk@specsavers.com Horsham: 2 Worthing Rd (01403)

To find out more or book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/horsham or call (01403) 275115 Specsavers Horsham is open seven days a week at 2 Worthing Road, Horsham, RH12 1SL

Holly is a frame specialist at Specsavers Horsham

GREENLIGHT

FRIENDS OF HORSHAM PARK CELEBRATE NEW PROTECTION

Horsham Park will be protected in perpetuity after a legal agreement between Horsham District Council and the charity, Fields in Trust.

The partnership follows a campaign by the Friends of Horsham Park to preserve the park for future generations. AAH met Sally Sanderson (Chair of Friends of Horsham Park), as well as volunteers Carol Trowbridge, Neil Marsh, Trevor Nash and Conor Weedon to find out more…

Sally: The Friends of Horsham Park was formed in 2017 by local people who objected to the installation of an ice-skating rink in the park. During our campaign, we uncovered various covenants concerning the park, but none offered complete protection from development. So, in 2019, we became a Community Interest Company (CIC) with the aim of enhancing, promoting and protecting Horsham Park. We now distribute a newsletter to 500 supporters, with a committee meeting held every month. Last year, our regular volunteer group

recorded 2,442 hours of gardening and conservation work in the park.

Neil: We work closely with Horsham District Council’s Parks and Countryside team, who also look after other green spaces, such as Warnham Local Nature Reserve and Chesworth Farm. While the Council makes key decisions concerning the park, the Friends help to inform what is needed. Certain jobs must be carried out by qualified professionals, such as tree surgeons, but otherwise the Friends keep the park tidy, maintain flower beds, and promote habitats for different species.

Carol: Volunteers meet every Wednesday morning, come rain or shine. We try to cover the entire park, as there are a surprising number of flower beds that need attending. As well as popular spots such as the Park House Sensory Garden, there are beds around The Rec, along North Street, and around the duck pond too. It would be difficult for the Council’s own workforce to tend to them all without us.

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Ed: 07812995475 |Carl: 07754337926 Email: thetreemensusse x@gmail com

Friends of Horsham Park in the Sensory Garden

Trevor: I recently joined the Friends, having previously volunteered for the Rudgwick Biodiversity Project. One of the great things about the Friends is the breadth of knowledge amongst the volunteers. I hope my experience will help the group to develop a greater understanding of the park’s ecosystems.

Carol: I used to be a gardener by trade, before moving to Horsham to be close to family. A neighbour volunteered for the Friends and thought it would suit me too, so I joined her one Wednesday and have been coming ever since. Everybody gets on, as we have a shared interest.

Conor: Joining the Friends has had a big impact on my life. I’m an artist and also do leatherwork, but working alone can be isolating and I needed an outdoor hobby. I was at the park café one morning with my mum, and she encouraged me to approach the Friends, who were working nearby. Since then, I’ve been coming every week. Everyone has been very supportive and I’ve even started my own gardening business.

Carol: The Sensory Garden at Park House is one area that requires regular attention. The central beds

maintained by a professional gardener, while we tend to those around the perimeter. We promote variety, so have planted lavender –which attracts pollinators – as well as varieties that flower later in the year, such as hellebores. At the moment, it’s bursting with colour, with tulips and blue Brunnera. We’re also trimming the lonicera hedges, which needed re-planting after being munched by caterpillars!

Conor: I don’t have the knowledge of some of the more experienced gardeners, so tend to carry out labour-intensive tasks. Today, I’ve been doing a lot of heavy lifting, as we’ve planted some Heuchera near Park Surgery. It’s a busy access point between the town and the park, so we’re trying to make it more attractive.

Trevor: Many people enjoy the flowers in the Sensory Garden. However, other areas of the park are deliberately left alone and offer wonderful biodiversity. There is a growing understanding of rewilding and Knepp is a great example of what can be achieved, not just by leaving nature to its own devices, but understanding the impact that will have. People often remark on the beautiful flowers, but we also try to attract pollinators and support

Sally: As part of efforts to promote the park, we’ve supported events such as the St Catherine’s Hospice Midnight Walk, and work with the Horsham Society to offer guided walks. We also encourage people to vote for the park in competitions, winning gold in the Large Park category of RHS South and SouthEast In Bloom 2025. We regularly host litter-picking events too, and have received Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award by for six consecutive years. However, in a 65-acre park with features ranging from skate parks to dragon mazes, there’s always plenty to do.

Carol: Last autumn, we assisted with an extensive replanting of the Human Nature Garden. The garden was being looked after by a small team of volunteers who were pleased to hand it over to the Friends. It has a number of unusual shrubs, including pineapple guava, some lovely figs and mulberries too, which we kept where possible. It was mostly herbaceous plants that were replaced, with late-flowering perennials added for year-round colour. That’s the art of gardening: to offer something for all seasons.

We have over 30 years’ experience in organising group trips to the theatre, local and national attractions and short breaks.

We ensure a hassle free experience, with someone always on hand to offer guidance, with discounts on tickets to nationwide attractions. Our programme takes in West End and regional theatres, stately homes, palaces and gardens, river cruises, steam train rides and afternoon teas. For our short breaks, we visit beautiful towns and cities, as well as an annual trip to continental Christmas Markets.

Our upcoming trips include:

MY FAIR LADY IN CHICHESTER

Monday 24 August 2026

Including some free time in Chichester before enjoying Lerner & Loewe’s evergreen musical from the front stalls. Pick-up 2.20pm, Horsham Park & Ride. Offer Price £79.50

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR AT THE PALLADIUM

Tuesday 18 August 2026

Starring Sam Ryder, enjoy the award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production at this iconic venue. Pick-up 4.15pm, Slinfold Golf Club. Offer Price £99.50

The Best Local Produce

New House Farm is located in a beautifully renovated 16th century barn in the rural outskirts of Horsham. Our locally-sourced produce includes fruit & veg, bread, meats, cheeses, a wide range of Sussex beers, spirits and wine, and hand-made local arts and crafts.

Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms

Our popular Tea Room serves a full breakfast menu, as well as Ploughman’s lunch, sandwiches, toasties and baps, with a fantastic selection of home-made cakes. We have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Hot food served until 3.30pm.

New House Farm Function Room

Set within a beautiful barn, our function room is available for private hire, catering for all kinds of occasions from family celebrations to corporate events.

l The Mobile Fish Company visit every Friday, 11am - 2pm.

Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm

on Mondays. Hot food served until 3.30pm. www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk

Carol Trowbridge in the Park House Sensory Garden

Neil: One recent projects has been protecting a veteran oak tree. People were taking the desired path (rather than the one mapped out) which was compressing the tree’s roots. So, it was decided that it should be fenced off to protect it, with a new path created and wildflowers such as bluebells and primulas planted around it. We’ve also been helping the Council’s team replace some of the declining Fastigiate oaks lining the footpath from Park House with new native hornbeams.

Sally: We’ve been looking at ways to protect the park for some years. The original covenant stated that it should be used for recreation and public offices, which left some risk for development. In the 1970s, when Horsham Urban Council amalgamated with rural councils to form Horsham District Council, the Council proposed building offices for up to

300 employees in the park. It was largely the efforts of the Horsham Society which stopped this from happening. So, we wanted to ensure the park was protected before the introduction of a new Unitary Council covering Horsham, Crawley and Mid Sussex.

Sally: To provide this protection, the Friends started talking to Fields in Trust, a UK charity that legally protects parks, playgrounds and green spaces. Now, HDC has designated the park a protected public recreational space. If the Council ever wanted to build on it, they would have to provide an equivalent, high-quality 65-acre area of green space close to town, which would be very difficult! The protection doesn’t impact how the park is used; it excludes Council-owned buildings such as the café and bowls club – and it can still be used for sports. It also doesn’t stop the

introduction of recreational facilities which may be deemed necessary in future. It simply provides peace of mind for the town.

Carol: People often comment on how lovely the park looks and thank us for our work. It’s nice to hear that our efforts are appreciated.

Trevor: We all share this beautiful space together – from children enjoying the play park and duck pond to older generations taking in the sights and scents of the sensory garden. So, I find helping care for Horsham Park to be good for the soul.

Further information:

Find out more about the Friends online at: www.friendsofhorshampark.co.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

HORSHAM SOCIETY

HORSHAM HERITAGE FREE GUIDED WALKS

Join one of our Heritage Guides on a free ninety-minute walk in Horsham town centre and hear about some of Horsham’s fascinating history. Meet at 2.30pm outside Horsham Museum, Causeway, on any Wednesday or Sunday from now until the end of September.

A guide will be there to welcome you, whatever the weather. Booking is not required.

Queries to: events@horshamsociety.org

Horsham Town Trail book available

Guiding you to places of historical interest around the town. This self-guided trail aims to make you more aware of some of the important buildings and sites in Horsham. Available from Horsham Museum at £1.75.

www.horshamsociety.org

Joining the Friends inspired a career change for Conor Weedon Sally Sanderson, Chair of Friends of Horsham Park

Hear Better, Feel Better

The Horsham Hearing Centre is the longest established dedicated Hearing Centre in Horsham. Opened in 1995 by husband and wife team of Audiologists, Julie and Jonathan Ormerod, the couple still run the centre today and offer their clients unrivalled expertise and experience in dealing with hearing problems. Unique in their profession, they offer customers a “Better Hearing Guarantee”. The chance to try the latest technology hearing aids at home in your own environment to help you decide if hearing aids are for you.

Situated in a 500-year-old building opposite the Horsham Library, The Horsham Hearing Centre offers a complete Hearing Care service. Call us or call in today to book a priority appointment.

Latest Hearing Instruments

Hear in Noise with AI

There are many different hearing aids available with different styles, features and cosmetic solutions that can enhance your daily life. Modern hearing instruments are designed to provide clear, crisp sound enhancement so that you can hear and understand better. We offer both ‘in-the-ear’ aids, custom-made to fit perfectly, and ‘behind-the-ear’ hearing aids, including the most popular style, the Receiver-In-Canal (RIC).

30 Great Years in Horsham

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of our business in Horsham, we are offering readers of AAH a very special offer.

Simply quote the code “AAH” when you book an initial consultation and you will receive a technology upgrade if you go on to purchase hearing aids. This could be worth up to £800.

We fit only the latest and best technology from the world’s leading hearing aid manufacturers. One of the latest products we have is the Audibel Vitality AI instrument. It incorporates secondgeneration Artificial Intelligence (AI) processing to give you the best hearing in challenging listening situations. If you haven’t tried hearing aids for several years, come and experience Vitality. It could change your life!

Better Hearing Guarantee

We offer you the chance to try the latest hearing aids completely free of charge or obligation. Take them away and try them in your own environment and hear for yourself how different life can be. At the Horsham Hearing Centre, we offer a professional service in a comfortable environment. If you struggle to hear, why not book a priority appointment with our Audiologists and try the latest hearing aids?

The Horsham Hearing Centre, 22 Worthing Road (opposite the

Horsham Lighting is a new, independent lighting showroom in Horsham. We specialise in high-quality decorative lighting and believe great lighting is fundamental to how a space looks, feels and functions.

Founded by Ollie and Sarah Gamlin, who have over 20 years of industry experience.

We have developed an in-depth understanding of decorative and architectural lighting for residential and commercial spaces.

Our welcoming showroom has a wide range of carefully selected products and a personal level of customer service. We look forward to welcoming you into our showroom and helping you create beautifully lit spaces.

Pendants Table Lights Chandeliers Outdoor Lights Kitchen Lights

GUIDING LIGHT

HUSBAND & WIFE OPEN HORSHAM LIGHTING IN EAST STREET

A new independent lighting showroom has opened in East Street, Horsham.

Horsham Lighting is owned by Ollie and Sarah Gamlin, who have over 20 years’ experience in the industry. Ollie also runs The Lighting Centre in Guildford, having taken over the reins from his father Roger, who opened the showroom in 1985.

The shop at 58 East Street, one of two units previously occupied by New England Interiors, is just the second to be opened by the family-run business, and comes after a long wait for the right location in Horsham.

Ollie said: ‘There hasn’t been a lighting specialist in town since the closure of Sussex Lighting. We know (former owners) Andy and Suzannah Coe well and even looked into

the possibility of taking over their business in 2023. When they closed Sussex Lighting, it was to focus on other things in life, not because the business was struggling. So, we knew there was an opportunity in Horsham. It’s a thriving town with a similar demographic to Guildford, so we’ve been regularly visiting the town and maintaining a dialogue with commercial estate agents in our bid to find the right unit.

‘We consider ourselves to be a destination showroom, so we didn’t need to be right in the centre of town. Like with our Guildford showroom, we did want someone close to car parks, which are available a short walk away at Piries Place and Denne Road. So, this location is perfect, as the building has great Victorian charm and allows us to create visual appeal though our bold colour scheme and

‘Visiting European trade shows help us to keep an eye on developing trends in terms of lighting style and colours.’

vibrant window displays, attracting the attention of passing motorists.

‘The tall ceiling also allows space to demonstrate a good selection of hanging pendants and wall lights, while the upstairs area offers the potential for us to create something different, perhaps to display lighting in a way that gives customers inspirational lighting solutions for their own home.

Ollie Gamlin

Judith Dandy Independent Funeral Director

Dandelion Farewells warmly invites you to contact us if you have any questions about the funeral you need to arrange.

We are committed to enabling families to plan a funeral that is personal, meaningful and affordable. We will support you to create a farewell that is appropriate and unique, thereby taking away much of the strain of planning such a significant event. We will be with you every step of the way.

Church View, Billingshurst Road Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0DY

e: judith@dandelionfarewells.com

t: 01403 701001 m: 07769 336022 www.dandelionfarewells.com

Care starts at home

Stay living comfortably and independently at home with Home Instead®

Whatever your support needs, visits from your Care Professional will give you and your loved ones peace of mind, knowing that you are being supported at home.

Speak to our friendly team 01403 248227 / 01444 227708 Email enquiries admin.horsham@homeinstead.co.uk

Visit our website www.homeinstead.co.uk/horsham

‘We have received a warm welcome form customers and the local business network. Independent retailers seem to thrive in Horsham and there’s a good range of cafes, restaurants, beauty salons and retailers – a sign that it has a strong sense of community. People want to support independent businesses and appreciate the services they provide, so hopefully we can replicate our success in Guildford here in Horsham.’

MODERN FLAIR

Horsham Lighting specialises in highquality decorative lighting, providing inspirational, design-led solutions with honest advice. The product range includes ceiling lights (downlights, spotlights, lanterns, single pendants, multi pendants, chandeliers, etc), a wide selection of decorative wall lights, table and desk lamps, floor lamps, and outdoor lights for walls, decking and security. Customers can even pick out their own fabric for lampshades, or pick up a replacement light bulb.

Products are hand-picked to ensure a unique collection, with many of the lights offered not available through online retailers.

Sarah said: ‘Rather than offering the same lighting that you’ll find on major retail websites, we partner with smaller suppliers that offer the very best in British and Continental styling.

‘We love attending specialist trade shows in Milan (Euroluce) and Frankfurt (Light + Building), which present not only buying opportunities, but also a chance to consolidate relationships with our existing suppliers and meet new and exciting lighting designers from Italy, Germany, and across Europe.

‘Trade shows also help us to keep an eye on developing trends. You can pick up clues as to the future direction of the market, in terms of style and colours, helping us to continue to offer contemporary designs before they’re adapted for the wider market by large retailers.

‘As well as offering a fantastic range, we have vast experience in the industry. Sometimes, our customers will spot something they like on Instagram, but are not sure if it can be practically replicated in their own home, or fit the dimensions of their new kitchen or bathroom extension. Thanks to our in-house expertise,

including a lighting designer, we can help people find lighting that will not only be beautiful, but efficient and practical too.’

Further information:

Visit the new showroom at 58 East Street, Horsham, RH12 1HN www.horshamlighting.co.uk

Giltinan and Kennedy LLP

6a Lyons Farm Estate Horsham, RH13 0QP (01403) 337490 info@giltinan-kennedy.co.uk

Taking the stress out of Self Assessment Tax Returns

Taxes are rarely at the top of anyone’s to-do list, so it’s no surprise that many people leave their Self Assessment tax return until January. But waiting until the deadline can create unnecessary stress and leave little time to plan ahead.

Why should you submit your tax return early?

Submitting your tax return early does not mean paying your tax bill early. The payment deadline for the 2025 – 2026 tax year remains 31 January 2027. What early submission does give you is clarity. Once your return is complete, you will know exactly how much tax you owe, giving you time to budget and prepare rather than facing a last-minute surprise after Christmas.

Could you receive a tax refund sooner?

In a nutshell, yes. If you are due a refund, submitting your return early means HMRC can process it sooner. For many people, this can be particularly useful during the year, rather than waiting until January simply because the deadline allows it.

Can submitting early reduce stress?

Absolutely! January is always the busiest period for Self Assessment. Leaving things until the last minute can mean scrambling to find paperwork, rushing figures and worrying about deadlines. Completing your return earlier in the tax year gives you more breathing space and avoids the pressure that often builds towards the end of January.

Can a tax return help with mortgage or loan applications?

It can do. Many lenders use completed Self Assessment tax returns as proof of income, particularly for self-employed individuals and company directors. Having your return submitted and available early can help support applications for mortgages, loans or certain benefits.

What if you no longer need to complete a tax return?

If your circumstances have changed and you believe you no longer need to submit a Self Assessment return, it is important to tell HMRC as soon as possible. This can help prevent unnecessary reminders or penalties.

How can we help?

At Giltinan & Kennedy LLP, we help clients complete and submit tax returns accurately and on time, while also helping them understand their wider tax position. If you would like support with your Self Assessment tax return, call our team today on (01403) 337490 or email info@giltinan-kennedy.co.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

Sarah Gamlin

YOUR LOCAL FAMILY-RUN, INDEPENDENT GLAZING

Visit our Modern Horsham Showroom

Our new showroom has an extensive range of window, doors and glass available for your viewing. Our conveniently located showroom, next to Horsham train station, features an extensive range of window, doors, conservatory styles and samples of glass available for viewing. Our professional staff will always be on hand to discuss your needs and offer advice.

We also offer LivinROOF, the first roofing system to combine solid and glazed roofing seamlessly. It helps you extend your living space and creates beautiful natural light in a room that can be used all-year-round.

A Brand You Can Trust

Shaws has been based in Horsham for over 35 years and is established as the District’s independent choice for all things glass.

Founder Peter Cunningham and son Mark lead the team at our new-look Showroom near Horsham Station, with Lee Cunningham heading operations at our Faygate factory.

Selection of Doors

Your front door is as individual as you are – it is a statement that creates a first and lasting impression of your home. We have a wealth of experience in helping you choose the best option. At our showroom, you can browse a selection of beautiful front and back doors, patio and French doors, and Concertina Bi-Fold Doors.

Wide Range of Windows

The Ultimate Heritage Collection is available in Rebated Sash and Flushed Sash finishes. FlushSash PVC-u windows offer modern thermal efficiency and superior security. approved to supply and install Pilkingtons EnergiKare™ Glass ensuring the highest quality windows in Sussex.

SHOWSTOPPER

PEEK INSIDE THE CAPITOL’S REFURBISHMENT

PROJECT

The Capitol Theatre is undergoing its first major refurbishment since 2002.

The venue closed on 4 January, hours after the final performance of its festive pantomime, Robin Hood. Background scenery from the sell-out production still hangs above the theatre stage, such was the rush to vacate the premises in time to welcome Willmott Dixon Interiors, who have been contracted by Horsham District Council to carry out refurbishment work to the theatre, auditorium, cinema screens, toilets, bar and Box Office.

The project is progressing as planned, with The Capitol set to re-open in November, in time for pantomime season.

The council has retained most of The Capitol staff, who are currently based in a temporary Box Office in Swan Walk, where they can keep the public updated on the project’s progress and take bookings for future productions.

Tracey Grubb, Marketing Officer, said: ‘When the refurbishment works were first announced,

we all expected to be working from home. So, it has been wonderful to continue working together as a team as we compile the Spring 2027 programme and keep people updated on the refurbishment.

‘We are replacing the seats in the theatre and the two screens, and at Swan Walk, members of the public can try out the new seats. We will have grey seats in Screen 1 on the first floor and blue seats in Screen 2 on the ground floor, which are both used for films, talks and

Capitol staff Tracey Grubb, Matthew Effemey and Lauren Fielding in the Atrium

lectures. Visitors can also test out the new red seats which are going to be installed in the Theatre.

‘We have found that the public appreciate the opportunity to maintain contact with the theatre during its closure, especially those who often attend shows and have come to know our Box Office team well. So, it has been lovely to hear their thoughts on the refurbishment project.’

The Council has contracted Willmott Dixon Interiors, specialists in retro-fitting and refurbishment, to deliver the project. WDI was chosen for its track record in public sector refurbishment, which includes the restoration of the former Granada cinema in east London and The Amelia Scott in Tunbridge Wells.

AAH was invited behind the scenes to see how the project was progressing. We were joined by members of The Capitol team, including Operations Manager Matthew Effemey, and Adam Kennar from Willmott Dixon Interiors…

New seats at the Box Office, Swan Walk

The Atrium

There will be very little change to the building’s external façade. The glass atrium, added during the last refurbishment, will remain, while the layout of the foyer stays much the same, although a new Box Office desk is being built.

Matthew said: ‘We held the last pantomime performance on 3 January, and Willmott Dixon Interiors arrived at 7am on 4

The Theatre

All the seats have been removed from the 410-seat main auditorium and scaffolding has been erected, enabling contractors to install a new house lighting system and to repair and redecorate walls and ceilings. Interior designers have been experimenting with techniques to replicate the drywall texture, reminiscent of orange peel.

The theatre’s art deco features are to be retained, but the purple colour scheme will be replaced with a new colour, which at The Capitol’s request will remain a secret for now. A timelapse camera has been installed and the public will soon be able to see how the work has progressed on a screen at the Swan Walk Box Office.

January. So, we didn’t even have time to take down the Christmas tree, which is still standing, albeit covered. The biggest change in the Atrium will be the removal of the old revolving door. It will be replaced with sliding doors, providing an additional fire exit. Some of the most important work is being done behind the scenes, such as improvements to the plumbing and heating mechanisms, and the installation of new boilers.’

Matthew said: ‘One of the new theatre seats is available for people to test out in Swan Walk. The seat still flips back, to make it easy to walk across rows. Some will be slightly wider, so we can utilise additional space at the end of certain aisles, and these will be prioritised for customers who need them most. The new seats do not include cupholders, as we want to respect the traditions of theatre.’

Mobility Scooter Safety

We have helped many scooter and powered chair drivers in the Horsham District. During a FREE 90-minute Safety Session, we will show YOU how to reduce the chances of accidents. Our friendly ‘Scooter Tutor’ can meet you at your home. He will accompany you and advise on SAFETY while you drive on local pavements. Are you thinking about getting a scooter? You can drive ours — FREE We are volunteers and don’t sell anything.

Matthew Effemey and Adam Kennar in the Capitol Theatre

Screen 1

There will be significant changes in the 175-seat Screen 1. As well as being redecorated, a false wall is being built to prevent sound transference from the main theatre, as loud productions there have occasionally been heard by those sitting amongst the back few rows of Screen 1. There will also be changes to the layout, says Matthew…

‘We used to have a wide central aisle, but now we will have longer rows of seating, with aisles on either side. The reason for this is that the centre seats are the most popular for film screenings. The other major improvement concerns access for wheelchair users. We used to provide space for one wheelchair user and a companion, near the fire exit. There will now be three wheelchair user spaces in a much better position.’

Screen 2

Both Screen 1 (on the first floor) and Screen 2 (ground floor) will have their own identity when it comes to decor and colour scheme, and both will benefit from new lighting and carpets. The Capitol opted against installing premium seats – such as sofas and armchairs – instead introducing comfortable individual seats. The grey seats in Screen 1 and blue seats in Screen 2 will both come with cupholders.

THE TOILETS

All the toilet facilities are being replaced, with additional cubicles for females. The space has been fully utilised to provide four additional cubicles, including three new “Super Loos” with a basin. A Changing Places area is also being introduced for the first time.

Matthew said: ‘Changing Places are toilets for people with complex

Matthew said: ‘There will also be changes to the visual experience. Last year, we installed 4K laser projectors in Screens 1 and 2. We expected them to be introduced as part of this project, but the old projectors were nearing their end of life, so we changed them earlier to give more vivid colour and detail to the cinematic experience. Both screen surfaces will receive a full upgrade too, providing increased brightness to complement the visual impact of the 4K projectors.’

disabilities and support needs who cannot use a standard accessible toilet. So, it’s wonderful that we’re creating one in Horsham.’

First-time buyers: Don’t be held back by Deposit Myth

If you have been putting off buying your first home because you do not think your deposit is big enough, you are not alone — and you may be closer to the property ladder than you think.

Recent industry research suggests that a significant number of aspiring homeowners are holding back based on assumptions about deposit requirements that simply do not reflect the reality of what is available in today’s market. The findings point to a widespread ‘deposit myth’ — a belief that a large upfront sum is the only way in.

Around three quarters of prospective buyers are unaware that mortgages exist with just a 5% deposit requirement. Four in five have never heard of ‘track record’ mortgages — products designed to help renters demonstrate their ability to afford a mortgage. Seven in ten are unaware of the full range of family-assisted options available.

Key options worth knowing about include:

l First Time Buyer support mortgage (NEW) – £5k deposit from own money, max property value £300k.

l 95% LTV mortgages – these allow you to buy with just a 5% deposit, meaning a £200,000 property could be within reach with a £10,000 deposit

l First Time Buyer Boost - 5.5x income, 10% deposit, needs £40k income +

l Track record mortgages – for renters who can show a strong history of meeting payments on time

l Family-assisted mortgages – products that allow parents or other close relatives to support an application without necessarily providing cash upfront

l Shared ownership – an alternative route where you buy a share of a property and pay rent on the remainder, with the option to increase your share over time

No single product suits everyone and T&Cs will apply. The right route depends on your income, deposit, rental history, and family circumstances. Speaking to an adviser early in the process can cut through that confusion.

A whole-of-market broker can assess your position, explain which products are realistically available to you, and map out the steps to getting keys in hand. You may find you are further along than you assumed.

The Bar

Café by the Lake

We offer a delicious range of hot and cold dishes, from seasonal breakfasts to hearty lunches, all crafted with care. Sweet treats and cakes are baked in-house using fresh, local ingredients, including artisan breads and burgers made with beef from our own herd.

Just here for a drink?

Take your pick from a wide selection of soft drinks, draught and bottled beers, premium spirits, and wines – all best enjoyed with stunning views over Sumners Lake. Sit back on the upper or lower deck, or get cosy in our safari-style tent, warmed by the glow of a real wood-burning stove.

Leaving so soon?

And if you’re not ready to leave, why not stay the night? With lakeside lodges, glamping, camping and touring pitches, Sumners Ponds is more than just a visit–it’s a place to slow down, connect with nature, and feel at home.

The bar will be extended all the way to the wall, utilising an awkward gap to one side and creating an extra service point to reduce waiting times. It will also have an integrated popcorn display, so that it doesn’t take up space on the counter. The design and décor – which previously featured quad posters for classic films, many starring Norman Wisdom – is being led by Willmott Dixon Interiors’ designers, following discussions with the Council and The Capitol team.

Matthew said: ‘We are making improvements to the seating areas too. Along the far wall, there was an awkward step and also glass panels that served little purpose, which have been removed to offer extra space. The alcoves along the wall will be utilised to create seating booths, while shelves will be added around pillars to provide more places to put drinks down.’

Class Act

The Capitol team are compiling a programme for next Spring, which will include comedian Julian Clary, An Evening with John Lydon, and Olivier Awardwinning musical Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of) will be coming next May. New shows are being added regularly, with updates available on The Capitol website and social media channels. However, the theatre is expected to be open in time for December’s production of Dick Whittington, starring dancer, choreographer and TV personality Louie Spence as The Cat.

Matthew said: ‘Louis is a class act. He is 57-years-old yet remains a brilliant dancer who moves better than leading actors half his age. For us, it’s a win-win, as Louis not only has Box Office appeal, but is also a great performer. The Capitol is renowned for its excellent pantomimes, as we tend to avoid celebrity headliners who are often not as talented – in terms of musical theatre – as the professional performers in the cast. As well as starring in Pineapple Dance Studios on TV, Louis has starred in West End musicals, so he has plenty of talent. He’s going to be great for Horsham and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming him.’

Further information: thecapitolhorsham.com/the-capitol-refurb

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

Matthew Effemey in the ceiling space in the main theatre

The Capitol bar

CHIROPRACTIC CARE: THE ART OF CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS

A clear understanding of your health starts with careful observation. Clinical assessment is where chiropractic care begins. It is a detailed process of discovering how and why your body is not functioning as it should.

At Weald Chiropractic, assessment is more than a checklist. It’s an active conversation and investigation to uncover the story behind your symptoms and build a treatment plan that fits your unique needs.

Listening to Your Story

Every assessment starts with your story. We ask about your symptoms, but also explore your lifestyle, work habits, activity levels and general wellbeing. These details provide valuable context, helping us see how different factors may be contributing to what you feel. We also look at your health history, from old injuries to periods of stress or illness. Understanding the full journey helps us identify the true cause of your current concern.

Seeing How the Body Moves

Once we understand the background, we move to the physical examination. Chiropractors use observation, motion testing and gentle palpation to evaluate how well your joints, muscles and soft tissues are working. We look for areas of restriction, imbalance or tenderness that may indicate dysfunction. Posture and movement are key clues. The way you stand, sit or turn your head can reveal a lot about how your body is compensating for stress or restriction.

Neurological and Orthopaedic Insights

Sometimes, we use simple neurological and orthopaedic tests to gather more details. These help us check how your nerves and joints are functioning together. Neurological tests assess muscle strength, reflexes and sensation, giving us insight into how well your nervous system is communicating. Orthopaedic tests, which involve specific joint movements, help pinpoint the source of pain or limitation, helping us to understand its mechanism.

‘Assessment is a partnership. It blends science, skill and listening to build a complete picture of your health.’

Interpreting What We Find

We combine everything we have learned to form a working diagnosis. This identifies the structures involved, the nature of the dysfunction, and how to address it. Rather than simply naming a condition, we interpret patterns. How one area affects another, and how lifestyle or movement habits may be perpetuating the issue. This gives us a roadmap for care that is both accurate and personal.

Communication and Collaboration

Clear communication is a cornerstone of good practice. Once we have completed your assessment, we explain what we have found and what it means for you. Your questions and comfort always come first and informed consent is central to our process.

Ongoing Review and Adjustment

Assessment does not end after the first visit. Each appointment provides new information about how your body is responding. We reassess, adapt and refine your plan as you progress. This ensures that care stays aligned with your goals and that improvements are maintained.

A Partnership in Health

At Weald Chiropractic, assessment is a partnership. It blends science, skill and attentive listening to build a complete picture of your health. By taking the time to understand not just your symptoms but their underlying causes, we can deliver care that is precise, effective and sustainable.

Weald Chiropractic & Wellness was founded by husband and wife James and Lavina in 2015. Their team of experienced practitioners provide Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Herbs, Massage Therapy and Reflexology. Visit our clinic at: 29 Graylands Estate, Langhurst Wood Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 4QD.

BILLY’S MOTORCYCLES LAUNCH NEW TRAINING SCHOOL TICKET TO RIDE

Billy’s Motorcycles have teamed up with experienced instructor Ben Wright to launch Billy’s Motorcycle Training in Pulborough. AAH visited the centre to find out more…

EXTRA GEARS

Billy’s Motorcycles was founded in 2019 by childhood friends Ashley Brunt and Charlie Sheppard, who both live in Billingshurst.

Ash, a skilled mechanic, inherited a passion for bikes from his father, who raced on the national circuit. Charlie – also a keen motorcyclist – had previously worked in IT and sales. So, they combined their skills to launch their own business.

Having started from a workshop in Ash’s garden, Billy’s Motorcycles is now based at Codmore Hill, between Billingshurst and Pulborough. The showroom stocks a wide range of second-hand motorcycles, from 50cc mopeds and 125cc bikes ideal for beginners, to sports bikes, scramblers,

tourers, roadsters and customised cruisers. The servicing side has grown too, with Billy’s taking on a second unit to create more space for repairs and MOTs.

Charlie said: ‘In the early days, the scales tipped slightly towards sales, but economic uncertainty caused a decline in demand and instead the servicing side grew, with riders keen to keep bikes on the road. We’re fortunate to have these two arms to the business, as both contribute to our success. Now, we have diversified again, by offering motorcycle storage and through the launch of a DVSA-approved training centre.’

TRAINING SCHOOL

It was one of Billy’s customers, Ben Wright, who mooted the idea of a training school. Although he lives locally, Ben was previously an instructor at a training school in Mitcham, South London. Spotting a gap in the market, he discussed the idea of establishing a centre closer to home with the help of the Billy’s team.

SERVICING & REPAIRS DIGITAL SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS BESPOKE & COMPLEX ENGINEERING MOT PREPARATION & PRESENTATION COLLECTION & DELIVERY

TYRES FITTED & BALANCED PAINT, PANEL WORK & FABRICATION RESTORATION & RECOMMISSIONING

Unit 28, Huffwood Trading Estate, Partridge Green, West Sussex, RH13 8AU Tel: 01403 241103

Billy’s Motorcycle Training instructors Ben Wright and Amba Jai Dixon

Ben said: ‘Ashley is very forward when it comes to business, and after I had tentatively suggested the idea on a couple of occasions, he said, “Right, let’s have a proper chat!” We sat down and sorted everything out.

‘It has been great to have their support, especially on the servicing side. Training schools always encounter problems, such as broken brake levers, as trainees sometimes drop a bike before they learn how to handle them properly.

‘Last week, a training bike suffered an electrical fault as we were riding through Dorking High Street. My first priority was to get the student safely home, which I did. Ash picked up the bike immediately and fixed it that same afternoon, so it was ready for the trainee to ride the very next day. Such support is invaluable, as it’s important for new riders to use a bike that they’re comfortable with throughout their training.

‘The support of Billy’s Motorcycles also means we can offer a wide range of bikes at the training centre. We have everything from 50cc mopeds to a Suzuki GSX, with automatic and manual bikes available. By working with Billy’s, we can also provide bikes to suit people of every shape and size, so they can ride in comfort. This also gives people a good idea as to what kind of bike suits them, and hopefully they will find the perfect bike in the Billy’s showroom once they’ve passed their test.’

Monza Sport is an approved service dealer for Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Abarth and now Jeep, offering the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

We offer servicing, repairs, warranty work and MOT on Fiat, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Jeep. Also, air-con re-gas, tyres and 4 wheel alignment. We have a waiting area with Wi-Fi and are near the Red Lion pub – alternatively we have modern low mileage courtesy cars available for our customers.

We have a vastly experienced Service Manager in Keith Avey and one of the country’s best technicians and diagnostic experts in Kevin Riddles. On four occasions we’ve topped the JD Power customer satisfaction surveys for Alfa Romeo.

(*No.1 out of 165 Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler Jeep dealers for customer satisfaction in the UK, Jan - Mar 2018)

The Billy’s Motorcycle Training team: Ashley, Amba Jai, Ben, Laura and Charlie

IDYLLIC ROUTES

Billy’s Motorcycle Training is located half a mile from Billy’s Motorcycles, in a concreted area close to Sainsbury’s. It’s a small school, with space for four students, as well as a cabin where students and instructors can relax and discuss the training.

It offers one or two-day Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), required before you can legally ride on UK roads (on a 125cc motorcycle, or 50cc moped for those aged 16). The centre also offers a pre-CBT course, providing a gentler introduction to motorcycling. For some, gaining a CBT licence (A1) is enough, although it needs to be renewed every two years. However, for most, it’s a stepping stone to a full license, with BMT offering the A2 licence (up to 47bhp) and the Full A licence (Unrestricted), both of which require riders to pass Module 1 (off-road manoeuvres) and Module 2 (on-road assessments). Instructors provide clear guidance to students via Bluetooth communication devices.

For instructor Ben Wright, wife Laura (who handles administration) and trainee instructor Amba Jai Dixon, Pulborough is the ideal location. ‘It’s a lovely place to learn to ride,’ said Ben. ‘You can turn out of the centre and ride through Amberley, Arundel and towards the coast without being constantly delayed by traffic. It’s a scenic route and gives new riders plenty of riding experience. Although there are established training centres elsewhere in Sussex and Surrey, there was a large area in the Horsham District without one. Pulborough may not have a huge population, but we find that people are travelling from further afield to enjoy the rural routes we offer, and to avoid waiting lists elsewhere.’

SAFE STORAGE

The new training centre has coincided with the opening of a new motorcycle storage service, which further complements the business.

Charlie said: ‘Over the years, many customers have enquired about storage and now we can offer that service with a new, purpose-built unit. Many owners don’t have enough garage space for bikes yet are keen to avoid leaving them outside in winter, as even under cover they’re at risk from the elements. There’s peace of mind from knowing a bike is safe and secure. Once spring rolls around, we can bring the bike out, give it a service and MOT if required, and you can enjoy riding. It’s another small way we can help people continue their passion for motorcycling.’

Further information:

For Billy’s Motorcycle Training, see: www.billysmt.co.uk

Visit Billy’s Motorcycles at Stane Farm, Stane Street, Codmore Hill, RH20 1BL. www.billysmotorcycles.co.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

FREESTYLE

HORSHAM FREEMASONS OPEN LODGE TO THE PUBLIC

Freemasons recently held an Open Day at the Normandy Centre in Denne Road, Horsham.

Members from various Lodges were on hand to talk about Freemasonry, what it means to be a mason, and showcase its community work. Despite a reputation for secrecy, AAH received a warm welcome from masons Adrian Butcher, Neil Toms and David Fairhurst, as well as Ryan Smith, Chair of the North Group of Sussex Freemasons…

GOING GLOBAL

Explaining the structure of Freemasonry is a job in itself, as the organisation has millions of members. In America alone, there are about 13,000 masonic lodges – the name given to the venues

where members meet. In the UK, where Freemasonry originated, there are about 7,000 lodges. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) in Covent Garden governs them all, with lodges organised into Provinces. One of these is Sussex Freemasons, which has about 150 lodges, with its Provincial Grand Lodge in Brighton…

Ryan: Sussex Freemasons has recently been re-organised into four geographical areas: North, East, South and West. In the North group, there are eight Masonic Centres, in Crawley, East Grinstead, Haywards Heath, Hurstpierpoint, Lewes, Uckfield, Wisborough Green and Horsham. Each Masonic Centre can be home to several Lodges and Royal Arch Chapters. Between

the eight Centres in Sussex North, there are 33 Lodges and 11 Royal Arch Chapters.

Adrian: I’m a mason in Richard Collyer Lodge, one of six Lodges that meets at the Normandy Centre. The others are March and Darnley, The Causeway, Carfax, Stane Street and Aviation & Combined Services. Lodges vary in size, with the smallest Lodge in Horsham having about 20 masons and the largest around 40. There are 24 masons in Richard Collyer Lodge. However, most of us know masons in the other Lodges and we can visit them too, which creates a sense of brotherhood.

Adrian: Freemasonry Lodges are formed at different times and for different reasons. Richard Collyer

Lodge was founded in 1927, predominantly for former pupils and staff of Collyer’s Grammar School. Members still wear a replica of the tie worn by pupils prior to its transition to a Sixth Form College. I’m one of several members that didn’t attend Collyer’s, but it was still the Lodge I was best suited to. The Lodge maintains links to Collyer’s, supporting various college events and awards nights.

Neil: I became a mason in 2020. My father and grandfather were masons, so I grew up around it, attending my first Ladies Festival Weekend (a social event where wives, partners and children are welcome) when I was six. My father’s Mother Lodge (where a mason is initiated) was Nile Valley Lodge, established by former RAF

servicemen in Cairo. So, as a commercial pilot, it was only natural that of all the Lodges in Horsham, I joined Aviation & Combined Services.

David: Special interest Lodges have been formed to bring together those with a shared occupation or passion. In Sussex, these include a Railway Lodge (Haywards Heath), Motorcycling Lodge (Worthing), Football Lodge (Brighton), Classic Motoring Lodge (Worthing) and even a Trout and Salmon Fishing Lodge (Burwash).

Adrian: As well as Lodges and Chapters, there are many other high-level Masonic orders, with the best-known including Knights Templar and The Ancient and Accepted Rite, known as Rose Croix. These are for Master Masons who have been exalted into the Holy Royal Arch Chapter.

BEING A MASON

Freemasonry traces its roots to medieval guilds of operative stonemasons, but you don’t have to be a stonemason to become a Freemason. The modern organisation is more fraternal and requires no professional construction or masonry skills, although it utilises the tools and

GUIDE STEAK to

language of masonry to teach moral and ethical lessons. To join, you need to be 18, believe in a Supreme Being, possess good moral character, and be a law-abiding person of good reputation. Lodges are male-only, although The Order of Women Freemasons has a handful of Lodges in the county, albeit none in the Horsham District….

Ryan: You shouldn’t look to join for financial gain; you should join for self-development, to build friendships, and to perform a community service. I joined 24 years ago and am an example of somebody who has improved his life through Masonry. We encourage Freemasons to be better members of society. When facing everyday scenarios, I ask myself, “What would a Freemason do?” We have a generation of men that are slightly lost and lacking a moral compass. We can provide these things for them.

Adrian: When it comes to joining, enquiries can be made via the Sussex Freemasons website. I joined in 1992, after approaching a colleague who was wearing a stone ring with the masonic stone and compass symbol. The good thing about Freemasonry is that from the moment you join, you have a room full of friends.

Ryan Smith, Chairman of the North Group of Sussex Freemasons

David: We used to say that if you want to be a Freemason, ask one! Nowadays, every Provincial Grand Lodge has a website where you can apply. One of the first questions I would ask at an interview is, “Would your partner support you joining?” It would be a red flag if somebody wanted to join without such support, as Freemasonry takes up a lot of time. If they fulfil the criteria, we connect them to a Lodge depending on their locality, age and interests, before introducing them to the Membership Officer of the Lodge.

Ryan: There are four steps in “Pure Antient Freemasonry”. You are introduced as an Entered Apprentice (the First Degree), before becoming a Fellow Craft (Second Degree), and a Master Mason (Third Degree). After the three degrees comes the Holy Royal Arch (Fourth Step). All freemasons are known as Brothers or Brethren, becoming a Companion after the Fourth Step. With each step, there is a ceremony, with the Fourth Step ceremony held in a Chapter, not a Lodge. We encourage people to take that journey through each step, but it’s a personal choice

and perhaps half of all masons become Royal Arch Masons.

Neil: We have various regalia, including aprons and collars, which depict our standing within a Lodge. An Entered Apprentice wears a white apron, while a Fellow Craft mason has a light blue apron and collar, and Master Masons wear darker blue. Some masons have special distinctions that come with appointed roles, such as staffs, that are carried by Deacons and Stewards, while the Worshipful Master (Master of the Lodge) wears a collar and apron with more lavish decoration.

THE MEETINGS

Initiation ceremonies can resemble a symbolic play and mark a new member’s passage “from darkness to light”. Further ceremonies are held as a mason progresses to the next stage towards becoming a Master Mason. The secretive rituals of the ceremonies have made Freemasonry a favourite topic of conspiracy theorists…

Adrian: A Lodge will typically meet between four to six times a year. Meetings include formal business and ceremonies and are

David Fairhurst greets visitors on the Open Day

The Masonic Lodge at The Normandy Centre

usually followed by a meal. There is a little bit of amateur dramatics involved in ceremonies, but I enjoy the camaraderie it creates. Lodges have slightly different rituals and we use one called “Sussex Working”. It’s interesting visiting other Lodges to see how their ceremonies differ.

Neil: As well as regular meetings, we have Lodges of Instruction (LOI) – informal gatherings that provide opportunities to rehearse before a ceremony. An initiated mason is supposed to learn the text of the “Obligation” by heart, so it helps to practice beforehand with masonry brothers. The

morality of the ceremonies is based around the building of King Solomon’s Temple 3,000 years ago, with the temple symbolising the moral and spiritual development of a mason’s character, and I personally enjoy these ancient traditions. You feel part of something that has been passed down for centuries.

David: A candidate enters the initiation blindfolded or “hoodwinked”, representing their state of darkness. The blindfold is removed only once you have made an oath not to share the secrets of Freemasonry. That first revelation – symbolising the

restoration of light – is significant. You hear stories of people joining a Lodge and upon having the blindfold removed, seeing the faces of people they know, but never knew were freemasons.

Neil: The secretive elements of Freemasonry inspire interest from conspiracy theorists. The Freemasons is not a secret society, but it a society with secrets. There is particular fascination with orders such as Knights Templar and the Order of the Secret Monitor, which you can join only once you have completed the journey to Master Mason.

David: It seems that conspiracy theories are more prevalent in the age of social media. Everyone seems to have an opinion on freemasonry, whether these opinions are founded on fact, fiction or complete fantasy. I made a promise not to reveal the secrets of the Freemasons, but if you really wanted to, there’s little you couldn’t find out on the internet. However, I would recommend that anyone interested in becoming a mason avoids the temptation, as preserving the mystery enhances the experience of the initiation ceremony.

Pilot Neil Toms of Aviation and Combined Services Lodge Adrian Butcher feels freemasonry will experience a Renaissance

SOCIAL SIDE

Outside of Lodges, mason meet for meals and social events. They carry out charitable work too, raise money for community projects and volunteer at local organisations...

Adrian: Our social committee organises activities from curry nights to family get-togethers. The Freemasons is also one of the UK’s largest charitable organisations, with contributions mostly coming from members. Aviation and Combined Services Lodge recently made a donation to Horsham Matters’ Connecting Café. Our members have also volunteered at Amberley Museum and Phoenix Stroke Club, and funded a kit for Broadbridge Heath FC’s Pan-Disability team.

Neil: We also operate The Ashlar Club, a Light Blue Club which organises social events for newer members and their families in North Sussex. We visit pubs and breweries, and are soon going to the United Grand Lodge in Covent Garden.

David: We do need to attract more people of working age, as the age profile has crept up. My father joined in his early 30s, which was the norm at the time. To properly represent and serve

the community, Lodges should be represented by masons of all ages, from 18 to 80 and beyond.

Adrian: I believe Freemasonry will experience a Renaissance, as many people have become socially detached. Many of us work from home, which restricts social contact, while young adults have become overly reliant on phones. So, we’re starting to see younger faces, as in Freemasonry they find something that has been largely alien to them, which is building a network of friends

Your local property professional

For further information about life at Broadbridge Park, or to RSVP to one of our upcoming events, please get in touch.

At Broadbridge Park, we make sure every day brings something special.

Whether you enjoy afternoon tea with family, getting creative with arts and crafts, or relaxing with a book, there’s something for everyone.

Broadbridge Park is a purposebuilt luxury care home in the desirable location of Broadbridge Heath in Horsham, offering high quality nursing, residential and dementia care. Life at Broadbridge Park is centred around our

residents, their needs and wishes. We pride ourselves on a home filled with comfort and a touch of luxury, with care that comes from a genuine interest in people. All bedrooms are en suite and our home boasts facilities including stunning wheelchair accessible landscaped gardens, a cinema, hair salon, and a large bistro café that’s perfect for enjoying one of our many activities, or to catch up with loved ones over a hot drink.

There is always lots happening at Broadbridge Park Care Home - why not join us at one of our events.

event for carers and those living with dementia. Whether you need information or just a friendly chat and advice, we’re here for you.

High Tea at Three

Every 1st Weds of the month, 3.00pm – 4.00pm

We’d love to welcome the community to join us for high tea each month. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee alongside sweet treats freshly prepared by our Head Chef.

BOOK YOUR VISIT WITH US TODAY

Chantry Court, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 3XY

Celebrating local volunteering

To mark Volunteers’ Week, Horsham District Council is celebrating the local voluntary groups and volunteers who make a real difference across our communities.

Taking place from 1 to 7 June, Volunteers’ Week is a UK-wide campaign to celebrate and recognise the contributions of volunteers.

Horsham District is home to a vibrant array of voluntary groups who bring people together, support those in need, and help build stronger, more connected communities.

Over the past two years, Horsham District Council has supported this work through a dedicated Volunteer Support Project, funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. The project was designed to help local groups attract, support and retain volunteers, combining grant funding with practical training opportunities.

Thanks to the grant, we’ve been able to strengthen our volunteer team

Since 2024, 33 grants have been awarded to local voluntary groups, supporting initiatives such as volunteer recruitment campaigns, training, community events and outreach. As a result, more than 1,600 volunteering opportunities have been created or supported across the district.

Horsham Matters, a vital community charity in the Horsham District, received a grant to strengthen its volunteer team. The charity supports people facing hardship through weekly foodbank sessions, practical advice, and welcoming Connecting Cafés. They said:

There is a volunteering role for everyone!

“Thanks to the grant, we’ve been able to strengthen our volunteer team through recruiting new helpers, keeping our team motivated, and ensuring everyone has appropriate training, without whom we simply couldn’t run our foodbanks, cafés, warehouse, or shop. This support ensures our volunteers feel confident and valued, helping us continue providing essential services and giving the people we serve the stability, connection, and practical help they need in their daily lives.”

Alongside this, a programme of Volunteer Support Training sessions has helped both volunteers and volunteer managers develop their skills. Covering topics such as volunteer recruitment, good practice in volunteer management, first aid and volunteer wellbeing, the sessions have supported over 180 volunteers.

The Council’s Voluntary Sector Support team remains committed to helping local groups thrive, offering ongoing guidance, resources and opportunities to connect. Stay up to date by signing up to the Council’s Voluntary Sector Support e-newsletter at: www.horsham.gov.uk/voluntarysector-support

Left: First aid training

Above: Horsham Matters

Right: Pulborough Pantry

EDITOR’SNOTES

It has been a good month for French bees. Well, most of them.

I am writing this column shortly after returning from a four-day motorcycling road-trip around north-west France.

We travelled 1200 miles – further than I’ve ever ridden before – and my face appears to have been left permanently compressed, having endured long, scorching hot days squeezed inside a helmet.

The route took us along the northern coast, past the D-Day beaches, to the astonishing commune of Mont-Saint-Michel, the walled town of Vannes, then along the banks of the Loire, before heading back towards Calais via the Gothic cathedral of Chartres and the Memorial to the Missing of the Somme.

We rode almost exclusively off motorways and toll roads, enjoying the smooth, sweeping roads in the largely agricultural regions of Normandie, Bretagne, Pays-De-La-Loire and Centre Val-De-Loire. Traffic was relatively light, but one thing we regularly encountered was bugs.

Lots of bugs.

There were times when a simple wet wipe would not suffice, and I needed a damp flannel to adequately clear the splatter marks from my visor after a long journey. Sometimes, the sound of a bug hitting the helmet at high speed was clearly audible to my two riding companions, as we were linked via Bluetooth intercoms.

It could be quite hazardous at times, and I had to pull over on one occasion to release a butterfly that had somehow found its way inside my helmet and perched itself on the tip of my nose.

As something of a wildlife enthusiast, I regularly pointed out the various birds of prey we spotted along the route, including kites, buzzards, kestrels and even a marsh harrier. Not that my friends cared – they were far more interested in the classic French cars we encountered. So, it was somewhat disheartening for me to have to wipe the creamy residue of squashed flies, moths, bees and beetles from my helmet visor. I found only some solace in the fact that I would have hit far more had I been driving a car.

One evening, as we relaxed in the historic port town of Honfleur, we talked about the number of bugs. The general consensus was that France had far richer biodiversity than the UK, although of course we had carefully selected a route through its agricultural heartland. I’m sure someone living in an urban area an hour from Paris (as we are from London) would think quite the opposite, if they were to take a road trip through Cumbria.

Since returning home, I’ve carried out some research to understand if bugs really are more abundant in France. The short answer is yes. A group called Bugs Matter even holds an annual survey in which participants count the number of bug splats on their vehicle number

©iStock/musat

plates. Previous surveys suggested a 59% decline in splats recorded in the UK between 2021 – 25. This year, the research will be extended to include France as well.

In a bid to combat light pollution and also to protect insect populations, many UK councils now turn off street lights at night, as they interrupt the natural navigation of bugs or trigger what is called a dorsal light response, in which an insect keeps its back facing the brightest light. That’s why you often see them constantly loop around a light until they eventually die from exhaustion, or become an easy target for predators, such as bats.

While I may have been responsible for wiping out a few bugs on my trip, I was encouraged by a news story that I came across on France 24, which still covers global news in a way the BBC used to, before it became overly focused on US/UK political analysis. A French government proposal to reintroduce acetamiprid – a banned agricultural pesticide known to be toxic to pollinators, was met by fierce opposition. A student-led campaign against the “bee-killer chemical” attracted widespread support, culminating in a petition signed by two million people. While many other insecticides have been banned across the UK and EU, acetamiprid is still legal in the UK.

So, it has been a great month for bees in France. Just not the one that struck my visor on the D940 near Saint-Valery-sur-Somme...

We have launched a new website, where you can read Classic Features as well as our latest editions. www.aahorsham.co.uk

FINALWORD

HORSHAM FUNDRAISER COMPLETES THIRD MARATHON

Gareth de la Torre

Gareth’s life was altered following an accident at his Horsham home. He was diagnosed with epilepsy, but a passion for outdoor adventure aided his recovery and he recently completed his 3rd London Marathon…

In January 2024, I was interviewed for AAH following the publication of my book, What the Ruck Just Happened

In 2018, I had an accident at home, stumbling and knocking myself out on the living room table. A few days later, I suffered a seizure for the first time and – after suffering frequent blackouts – was diagnosed with epilepsy.

As I couldn’t drive for medical reasons, I lost my job, while my medication triggered mood swings, making me difficult to be around. On one occasion, I blacked out in Swan Walk and this made me anxious about venturing out in public. I became reclusive, depressed and even suicidal, with my behaviour contributing to the breakdown of my second marriage.

I found solace in sleeping under the stars. My family were concerned, as I was camping in woodland and fields, but these experiences helped me. I couldn’t cope with the thought of having a seizure in public, but if it happened in the woods, then at least nobody would see me! Gradually, I started venturing further afield, filming hiking and camping expeditions for my “Big Grizzly Outdoors” YouTube channel. This gave my life purpose again.

Having already hiked in the Highlands, I took part in the Fan Dance, a gruelling 24km march over Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons used as an SAS selection test march. I then entered the London Marathon, running for the Epilepsy Society while carrying a 40lb training kit. I also wrote a book, charting my ups and downs. It was never going to be a best-seller, but it’s nice to hear from others who say it helped them get through a tough time.

This April, I completed my third Marathon – and first for the Royal Marines Association. Again, I ran in military boots, combat trousers and a 40lb rucksack filled with sleeping bags, ration packs, waterproofs and other essential kit. A friend, Tony Donnelly, travelled around London by Tube to top me up with energy gels. My goal was to finish in 5hrs 45mins and I was ahead of

schedule until the wheels started to come off around the 16-mile mark. The run became a calculation of energy conservation, but I finished 13 seconds inside my target.

I raised over £2000 and am grateful to all who supported me. When you compete in various fundraisers, you can only reasonably return to the same well so many times. So, it means a lot when friends and family donate every time. I also received fantastic support from NITE Watches and Alt-Berg boots, while The Dog & Bacon hosted a fundraiser which raised £780.

‘Despite my military clothing, I never served in the Marines, so do feel awkward when people say, “Thank you for your service!”

Although I enjoy military-style events, I never served in the Marines. I do feel awkward when people say, “Thank you for your service”. When you’re in the middle of a marathon, you can’t exactly stop to correct them. However, I’m always honest about who I am, as to pretend otherwise would be disrespectful to those who have served our country.

However, I do feel a connection to the Forces as my father served with the Queen’s Royal Hussars. I joined the Army aged 16 but hated it,

and my career lasted weeks, not years. I wasn’t mature enough and struggled with being away from home. I left with the idea of maybe rejoining when I was ready, but life changes...

I will keep on pushing myself, as I don’t want to revert back to the slob who watched TV all day. Later this year, I’ll compete in the Royal Marines 30 Miler (a gruelling commando test on Dartmoor), the PARAS’ 10 (based on the famous P Company test), the Royal Marines Commando Shuffle in Scotland and the Winter Fan Dance in Wales, where I came third in my age group last year . I’m in good shape for a 52-year-old, so hope to improve upon my previous times. My interest in endurance events has also led to a developing career as a videographer, working with YouTubers, podcasters and other content creators. I hope this will progress, so that perhaps I can be involved in producing more professional documentaries in future.

I’m still on medication for epilepsy, while my hearing has deteriorated. I’m learning sign language, although modern hearing aids are amazing. The main trigger for my seizures is stress, so I’ve tried to become a calmer person, with support from various neurologists and mental health professionals. The accident humbled me, as I went from having a well-paid job to relying on benefits. There have been difficult times, but I’ve also experienced great moments and met incredible people. I hope I can experience many more special moments and – by talking about my struggles – maybe help others overcome their own challenges.

You can buy Gareth’s book, What the Ruck Just Happened, on Amazon. You can also subscribe to his YouTube channel, Big Grizzly Outdoors.

Marathon

A team of local experts

Henry Adams is proud to have a team of local experts, who not only work in the area, but live here too. Have you met our team?

With over 25 years in the industry, Nick has a wealth of experience of the local market. He lives in Horsham and is very involved with Horsham Cycling. When he’s not in two wheels he’s not on two legs walking Frankie the dog.

Abi came to estate agency from the jet set world of Virgin Airways and hasn’t looked back. As a local of Horsham you may have seen her at the gym, or socialising with friends, or perhaps out walking Ottis.

William Papworth Sales Manager

After 23 years in property and as a Horsham village resident Will really knows the area like the back of his hand. His family take up a lot of his time, but when he wants some peace and quiet from the kids, Bailey gets a nice long walk.

Sarah just moved from Horsham to one of the villages, so she has first hand experience of searching for homes in the area. Another gym bunny and ex flight attendant, she can now be spotted exploring the local walks with Oscar.

Callum lives just outside Horsham and represents the local area when he plays football for Roffey FC. He doesn’t have any pets, but don’t worry, he’s still a great guy (and an even better estate agent!).

Nicholas Hapgood

Residential Sales Director

Abi Weller Senior Sales Consultant

Residential Sales Support