AAH (All About Horsham) April 2019

APRIL 2019

TRANSFORMATION THROUGH EDUCATION

COVER STORY

All About AAH AAH is an independent magazine, owned by Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District.

EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 The Editor, AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT ADVERTISING: advertising@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 PHOTOGRAPHY: TOBY PHILLIPS tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk info@tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk 07968 795625

IN THIS

EDITION In addition to our regular News Round-up, we meet Lightning, a young band playing their first headline gig in Roffey and look ahead to The Big Gig in Horsham.

Toby is available for all kinds of photography, from portrait work to corporate shoots. To find out more about his work, visit his website at https://tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk WEBSITE: www.aahorsham.co.uk We publish AAH online every month. You can read archive editions too.

Advertising in AAH The magazine is delivered to 15,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages including Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Ashington, Partridge Green and new estates at Highwood and Wickhurst Green.

Thousands of copies are picked up from our stylish stands across the District. The magazine is also published online.

ADVERTISING Eighth Page Advert: £55 + VAT Quarter Page Advert: £110 + VAT Half Page Advert: £185 + VAT Full Page Advert: £310 + VAT Double Page Advert: £520 + VAT Every Sixth Advert is Free For more details or an AAH information book email advertising@aahorsham.co.uk or call 01903 892899

We think that our cover star is Trevor Smart!

DOOR TO DOOR DISTRIBUTION Horsham: Max Paterson, Jacquie Paterson, Dominic Goddard, Eshan Wakefield, Richard Judd, Pat Gibbs, the Rolling family, Tom Haylor, George Voisey, Gemma Voisey, Mattie Boys, Katie Drysdale, George Williams, Edward Hitchings, Hazel Garner, Kirsty Pattenden, Jill Shuker, Owen Bloomfield, The Arliss family, Charlotte Wellbelove Southwater: Connor Brown, William Britton Villages: Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Harry Kent (Ashington), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) Ben Morris (Stands) Connor Wykes (Partridge Green), Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale); The Palmer family & Amy Butler (BBH) James Hobbs (Thakeham), Callum Matthews (Storrington)

During our visit to Amberley Museum, Ben was guided around the site by the Chairman and Curator, interviewing people along the way. He phoned Toby who had fallen behind as he’d stopped to eat his chicken sandwich by the blacksmiths - and said that he needed a picture of the chap fixing the spokes outside the wheelwrights.

PICK UP POINTS 4,000 more copies are available at businesses, clubs, organisations and community centres across the district.

AAH STANDS Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Artisan Patisserie (Market Square), Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Museum, Horsham Rail Station, Crates (Carfax) New House Farm, Swan Walk, The Capitol, New Street Butchers (New Street) At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club Village Stands: CoCo’s (Southwater); Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Coco’s (Billingshurst) Barns Green Village Store and Sumners Ponds, The Bridge Leisure Centre, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Gardens (Lower Beeding)

Ben had spoken to Bob Brotherhood, but Toby took a photo of someone else entirely. Nonetheless, it’s a nice shot. Snaps of Lightning and the Horsham District Tour were other contenders.

SOCIAL MEDIA Follow Ben and Toby on Twitter @AAHMagazine and @tobyphillips1

LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies (£45 for A4 leaflets)

NOTES Many thanks to Adam Browse, who has delivered AAH in Warnham for several years. Adam has moved on, so if you live in the village and are interested in picking up the reins, contact the Editor.

We are introducing an AAH stand to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.

Ben has also designed Leonardslee’s new souvenir brochure.

We take a look at the new Everyman Cinema in Piries Place before kids tip popcorn all over the colourful seats, whilst South Lodge Hotel has opened up a luxurious £15million spa.

The Horsham Club is hoping to inspire a new generation of snooker players. Meanwhile, a cavalcade of beautiful cars weaved through the District’s villages to promote town events including Piazza Italia.

Horsham Museum hosts an exhibition of literary giants.

Our cover feature comes from the surprising Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, where we meet blacksmiths, stained glass artists and a broom maker!

Email your thoughts on Ben’s column or on any AAH feature to: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Toby Phillips (Photos) and Ben Morris (Words))

Notes from the Editor

The Sorry Situation of Secondary Schools Two letters came through the door; one good, one bad.

The good news was that my 11-year-old son had been offered a place at Steyning Grammar, as expected for a pupil moving on from Ashington Primary School.

The bad news was another rise in Council Tax. Once again, local authorities blame the government for this, which may be true but the message is still becoming tiresome.

There’s still a job to be done, after all.

One of those jobs should be simple: Find a school place for local children. Trouble is, it’s not happening.

Whilst it was good news for us, many families in the District received two bad letters.

Children who would have expected to go to Tanbridge, Forest, Millais or The Weald are being sent elsewhere. Some are going to Crawley...

Whilst we may occasionally mock it like a dim-witted neighbour, there’s not a great deal wrong with Crawley. But having not chosen to live there, I would be fuming if my child was told he had to get up extra early, hop on a bus in the dark to travel to a less successful school with children he’s never met.

I might do what Malcolm Brierley did and start a petition, demanding that the government stop failing children of the Horsham District.

Some of the 2,000 signees have suggested that wrath shouldn’t be aimed at Horsham MP Jeremy Quin, but at West Sussex District Council (WSCC) and Horsham District Council

(HDC). WSCC is responsible for Education, whilst HDC deals with planning. Whatever way you spin it, they’ve failed to meet the educational needs of the district when it comes to secondary schools.

Their track record is really quite shameful.

You didn’t need to be Nostradamus to predict this could happen. Countless residents raised concerns - at council meetings, in letters to the press, in planning objections about the lack of infrastructure within the planned developments.

1,000 homes approved for Berkeley Homes’ Highwood estate, with some lovely amenities including a BMX track.

But no school.

1,000 homes at Wickhurst Green, with a neighbourhood centre and sports pitches.

But no school.

2,000 homes at Kilnwood Vale near Faygate, with a new primary school.

But no secondary school.

1,000 homes around Southwater. Berkeley’s Broadacres estate brochure notes its outstanding nearby secondary schools, whilst some children in the village can’t get in them.

Again, no new school.

Step forward, North Horsham.

The only basket carrying any eggs...

It is over a year since HDC approved the controversial new estate of 2,750 homes on greenfield land. To help get it approved, the site is set to include new health facilities, a business park and most importantly, a vital

new secondary school.

Liberty Property Trust (LBT), the developer behind the plan, revealed its delight when the estate was given the green light by our District councillors.

Hallelujah!

After years of being walked over by developers dictating their own terms and mocking the council’s affordable housing targets, HDC finally had a deal it could be proud of.

Then, all went quiet...

In February, it was announced that LBT were gone and Legal and General had picked up the reins. There’s speculation that L&G might be looking at the North Horsham plan and wondering how it’s going to turn a profit.

It wouldn’t be the shock of the century to see them going back to HDC for a revised deal.

Bohunt Education Trust is all set to run the new school. It will open for Year 7 pupils only this September, at a temporary base in Hurst Road. Bohunt hope to be there for one year.

Whether that happens is uncertain. What is certain is that the lack of secondary education becomes more critical with the completion of every new home.

HDC and WSCC need to put their heads together and move forward, quickly.

Thirty years ago, when I started at Forest, I lived in Shipley. Aged 11, my mum lived in Southwater and went to Millais, whilst my dad caught a bus from Lower Beeding to Forest.

In 2019, kids in the same locations might all have been denied their preferred option.

They deserve better.

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News & Events Across Horsham District

Pianist Maria Marchant

Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Harry Baker, a former S4S recepient

One of the greatest mountaineers of our time, Conrad Anker, talks at The Capitol on Saturday 20 April. He is perhaps best known for locating Mallory’s body on Everest, searching for climbing partner Alex Lowe for two days after an avalanche and for leading The North Face climbing team. In his show, Hold Fast: Yosemite to Everest to Meru, presented by Speakers from the Edge, Conrad will talk all things mountaineering, including the 1924 Mallory and Irvine expedition. Tickets £20 from (01403 750220) or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Shipley Arts Festival continues with the Warnham Park Concert on Saturday 1 June. Internationally acclaimed string trios, quartets and quintets perform a programme to include Schubert’s C major Quintet and Schumann’s Piano Quartet.

The concert is hosted by Jonathan and Caroline Lucas at Warnham Park, home to a world-famous herd of red deer. Musicians include Andrew Bernardi and Andy Laing (violin), Virginia Slater (viola), Jonathan Few and Jacqueline Philips (cello) and Maria Marchant (piano). Tickets £37.50 (to include flute of Nyetimber) from www.shipleyartsfestival.co.uk

A petition to raise awareness of the lack of secondary school places in the Horsham District has gathered almost 2,000 signatures.

Malcolm Brierly created the petition, entitled Stop Government Failing Horsham District's Children, as some children are being denied their preferred choice of school.

In some instances, notably involving Southwater families, Year 7 pupils are being placed into Crawley schools, some of which are graded as requiring improvement by Ofsted.

There are not enough places to meet demand and the petition’s instigators hope that Horsham MP Jeremy Quin will be prompted into action. A new school operated by Bohunt Education Trust, planned for a new North Horsham estate, is expected to resolve the issue in the years ahead. Bohunt opens this September in temporary accommodation, initially for Year 7 pupils only. Sign the petition at https://www.change.org/ and search for ‘Horsham Children’.

If you are an outstanding young talent in your chosen sport, or know someone who is, they could benefit from a Horsham District Set4Success Award.

S4S is a Horsham charity founded by the Rotary Club and supported by Horsham District Council, schools and businesses including AAH. It helps young people training and competing at a high level to achieve their ambition through financial support and access to leisure facilities.

Awards have been given to athletes involved in a wide range of sports, from fishing to football, golf to gymnastics, and basketball to badminton. The deadline for the next set of awards is 30 April.

To apply, visit www.set4success.org

Jubylee Bakes, a business run by young people with special needs, has been nominated for The People’s Project, a national scheme that supports worthwhile causes.

The Horsham-based business, previously featured in AAH, was named Best Young Start-Up at the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards.

Jubylee Bakes create scrumptious treats including lemon drizzle cake,

Viral sensation James Phelan brings his unique magical prank show to The Capitol for one night only on Tuesday 23 April, at 8pm.

The nephew of the great Paul Daniels, James presents a night of hilarious, mind-blowing magic in a show where

flapjack, chocolate brownies and tropical butterfly cupcakes. It is known for its colourful packaging and giraffe logo. The team hope local people will vote for them in The People’s Projects, a partnership between the National Lottery Community Fund, ITV and STV. About £3 million is up for grabs with 95 organisations shortlisted.

Please vote for Jubylee Bakes at www.thepeoplesprojects.org.uk

anything can happen. James, the presenter of Trickster: Live, will present moments from his upcoming TV show, Celebrity Troublemaking.

Tickets £14.50 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

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The new Thakeham Village Hall, set on the Abingworth Meadows development, was officially opened on Friday 8 March.

John Bearman, Chairman of the Village Hall Trust, introduced the proceedings and joined Thakeham Morris in performances of ‘Abingworth’ and ‘Thakeham Oak’ dances. The hall was then declared open by South Downs & Arundel MP Nick Herbert and Peter Burgess, Chair of Horsham District Council.

“The village hall is incredibly impressive and very grand for this growing community,” said Nick, who held his afternoon surgery at

the new hall. “This demonstrates that with new homes, you can get back great community benefits in return. The hall gives the village a focal point and I hope it becomes the centre of village life.”

The main hall of the building, built by Oakford Homes, has double height windows, an apex roof with space for a badminton court and an outside patio overlooking new sports pitches. It can be booked by group/clubs and businesses and already has a growing calendar of weekly events. www.thakehamvillagehall.co.uk

HRH The Countess of Wessex recently visited Amber’s Farm Place, a centre for homeless and unemployed young people in Ockley. Amber provides a temporary home for up to 30 young people, giving them the space and support they need to rebuild their lives.

The Countess met the residents and saw Amber’s programme in action.

Her Royal Highness was treated to a performance of a new song that residents have been working on. https://amberweb.org

Horsham Table Tennis Club is looking to recruit more females to try the sport.

Players of all ages and abilities are encouraged to attend free sessions with a free bat, thanks to funding from West Grinstead-based firm UK Table Tennis.

Sessions are now running at Greenway Academy, Horsham, on Fridays from 5.30 - 7pm. Table Tennis England coach Amila Thilakarathna leads the sessions, supported by his wife Nadini.

The minimum age is 14 years.

For details email Ian.ford@horsham.gov.uk

A Bunny Hunt will be held during the Easter holidays (6 - 22 April). Accompanied children can visit participating shops in Horsham for ‘Find the Carrot’ cards to discover whether they have won a treat.

By completing a competition sheet, the children can win cash prizes. The popular annual Bunny Hunt is organised by the Rotary Club of Horsham, in partnership with Horsham District Council. Participation is free.

Ashington Community Centre will host informative and entertaining monthly talks on an eclectic range of subjects.

The first talk was due to be held on 5 April.

Future talks include ‘Caring for and about horses’ on 10 May and ‘Do you want to fly a Spitfire?’ on 7 June. Other planned talks cover the topics of blue plaques and the horrible history of Horsham.

Entry is £5 (students free) with proceeds going to the Friends of Ashington charity. For information email Tony on alhmoss@gmail.com

Environmental campaigners in Horsham met in February to mark World S.O.S. Climate Emergency Day. The venue was altered to accommodate a surge of interest, with over 100 people finally cramming into Horsham’s Unitarian Church.

The two-hour meeting was organised by Carrie Cort, founder of Sussex Green Living, and environmental speaker Nicola Peel. It enabled people to share ideas and discuss ways to increase climate action.

Presentations were made by Sussex Green Living, Transition groups, Steyning 10:10,

Worthing Climate Action Network and the newly-formed Extinction Rebellion.

The unanimous decision of those present was to unite and work together to demand that West Sussex County Council declare a climate emergency and accelerate their climate action. Towns and cities that have already declared a climate emergency include London and Brighton and Hove.

To enable a co-ordinated approach, the South East Climate Coalition was formed. www.SussexGreenLiving.co.uk/ ClimateEmergency.

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Horsham in Bloom (HIB) needs new members to help it continue and expand the activities it offers. HiB promotes all forms of horticulture for the benefit of the community, with its annual competitions giving gardeners, volunteer groups, pubs, schools and businesses an opportunity to show their horticultural prowess.

The group, which recently revealed a new logo (above) requires members who are passionate about gardening and want to use that enthusiasm to brighten the streets and meeting places in the town. If you can help, contact the Secretary at HIB.Committee@gmail.com http://horshaminbloom.org.uk

Phoenix, the lugger falcon

Huxley's Bird of Prey Centre in Horsham has welcomed a lugger falcon named Phoenix. The young male raptor was gifted to the falconry centre at Hillier Garden Centre by Project Lugger, a pioneering conservation programme to halt the decline of the small falcon.

The falcon’s population in its native India and Pakistan has fallen to only 12,000.

Once Phoenix reaches maturity, he will be entered into a breeding programme.

Huxley's proprietor Julian Ford hosted a Meet The Falcon event on 23 February, raising £1,200 for Project Lugger.

Julian said: “Luggers are the most amazing birds and have agility that no other falcon has when they are training.” http://flyingfalcons.co.uk

TOOVEY’S

A selection of gentlemen’s wristwatches auctioned in our specialist sales of Wristwatches and Pocket Watches for a total of £39,700 The work of printmaking artist Sue Collins will be exhibited at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery from 12 April 29 June. Sue's inspiration is taken from her daily dog walks along the South Downs. Using a combination of photography and sketching, as well as drawing on her own experiences, Sue has created striking scenes for her Beautiful Sussex exhibition. https://suecollinsart.com/

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The auction market for vintage watches is bouyant! If you are considering the sale of your watches, our experts will be pleased to provide valuations free of charge and without obligation at our Spring Gardens salerooms.

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Michael Kopinski

prestigious Prix de Lausanne international ballet competition. He became a soloist dancer with the Birmingham Royal Ballet and now runs a ballet academy near Horsham Tickets £14 from www.chanctonburychrous.org

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Quo-Caine will again be supporting Status Quo’s bass player’s band, Rhino’s Revenge, on the closing date of their European tour at The Holbrook Club, Horsham on Saturday 25 May. John ‘Rhino’ Edwards’ band has two albums of original material to its name, with a third in production. Rhino’s Revenge will perform songs from its repertoire alongside Quo favourites. Tickets £15 from (01403) 751150 or www.theholbrookclub.co.uk

Mud Morganfield

Chanctonbury Chorus will be performing a Night At The Opera in association with the Kopinski Ballet Academy at St Andrew’s Church, Steyning, on Saturday 11 May, at 7.30pm.

Accompanied by a string quartet, piano and organ, Chanctonbury Chorus perform operatic songs by Puccini, Verdi, Mozart and others, as well as songs by Gilbert and Sullivan. The choir, conducted by Siobhan Denning and assisted by Liz Kirkland, features three professional soloists singing some of their favourite arias.

For some performances, the chorus will be joined by members of the Kopinski Ballet Academy. Michael Kopinski trained at the Polish National Ballet School and won the

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir presents a Spring Concert at St Mary’s Parish Church on Saturday 27 April, at 7.30pm.

The programme includes Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria, Luigi Cherubini’s ‘Royal’ Requiem, Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring by J.S.Bach, sung in its original German, and the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah. The choir will also perform well-loved pieces by English composer Hubert Parry and the hymn Jerusalem, based on William Blake’s poem. www.westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

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Retired Gatwick Air Traffic Control Officer, Tom Singfield, has published his fifth book about aviation.

Classic Gatwick Propliners is the result of over 30 years of research. Previously, Tom has written books on commercial airliners and in 2014 co-authored a major work on the history of aviation in Bermuda.

The latest book by the Horsham-based writer is a celebration of propellerdriven airliner types, civil and military, that operated from Gatwick for the first 20 years after its re-opening in 1958.

These include the Viking, Hermes, Ambassador, Argonaut, Britannia, Bristol 170, Heron, Dove, Commando, Constellation, Convairliner, Canadair CL-44, Stratocruiser, DC-3, DC-4, DC-6 and DC-7.

The book has a foreword by Peter Villa, Managing Director of Gatwick-based British Island Airways in the 1970s.

The 144-page all-colour book is published by The History Press and retails at £20. It will be launched at the LGW2019 International Aviation Enthusiasts Fair at K2 Crawley on 14 April.

Mud Morganfield, the eldest son of the legendary Muddy Waters, plays The Rec Rooms, Horsham, on Friday 19 April. Muddy Jnr is a multi-award winning artist, brought up surrounded by the finest Blues musicians in the world. His latest album, They Call Me Mud, was released in 2018 to rave reviews.

He has also appeared on BBC’s Later With Jools Holland. Tickets £15 from https://therecrooms.com

Sunrise over the sea at Eastbourne by Stef van Vuuren

The photography of Stef van Vuuren is exhibited at Horsham Museum from 16 April - 13 July. Since arriving in Horsham from South Africa in 2004, Stef has been inspired by the Sussex countryside and coastlines. Stef’s exhibition, Scapes, includes landscape, sea-scape and skyscape images taken both locally and on trips abroad. www.horshammuseum.org

Horsham-based Maverick Publishing has announce that one of its books, The Wondrous Dinosaurium, has been nominated for a Children’s Book Award. Written by John Condon and illustrated by Steve Brown, it was chosen by children as one of the Top 10 books in the Younger Children category.

Children from 250 school groups participated in the voting process and many will meet the authors at a ceremony on 8 June. The Children’s Book Award was the first UK national children’s book award to be won by Roald Dahl, J.K.Rowling and Jacqueline Wilson. www.maverickbooks.co.uk

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Find out all about Creative Assembly, the largest UK video game developer, at a Year of Culture event at The Capitol on Thursday 11 July, at 7.30pm. In Creative Assembly - Crafting The Worlds We Play, the Horsham-based company’s Project Art Director, Rob Farrell talks about the artistic, design and programming skills required to bring a game together. Rob has worked on award-winning games including titles in the Total War series.

His prior credits include Burnout and Harry Potter with EA. Tickets £6 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com PCaSO (Prostate Cancer and Support Organisation) supported by Mark Masonry of Sussex, hosts free PSA tests at The Normandy Masonic Centre, Denne Road, Horsham, on Saturday 29 June, from 10am - 3pm. The PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test is not a direct test for cancer, but can be an indicator of a prostate problem. Testing will be conducted by trained personnel and phlebotomy nurses. Symptoms of prostate problems include a frequent need to urinate (especially at night), bursting to urinate, slow flow or blood in the urine. Booking is essential at www.psatesting.org/horsham

Horsham District Council is asking people to take part in The Great British Spring Clean, held from 22 March - 23 April. For those willing to ‘Adopt a Street’ as part of the national campaign, the council will loan specialist equipment including pick-up sticks, bin bags and high visibility jackets. For details visit https://www.horsham.gov.uk/bins/ great-british-spring-clean-2019 Alternatively, email simon.furlonger@horsham.gov.uk

A ÂŁ2million highway improvement scheme will soon be underway in Broadbridge Heath.

The project is designed to ease congestion through the village and make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists. The scheme includes: • Alterations to the Newbridge roundabout to restrict access into Broadbridge Heath village from the A281. • Re-routing the Billingshurst Road along a new connector road to link it with a narrowed C622 (Broadbridge Way). • New shared footways/cycleways and improved crossing facilities at Newbridge roundabout.

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• A new off-road shared route linking Tesco roundabout to A24 Farthings Hill, which will convert lane one of the existing dual carriageway to a raised footway/cycleway. • Changes to lane markings on the dual carriageway link between the A24 Farthings Hill junction and the Tesco roundabout.

Throughout March, utility diversions and bridge parapet alterations are taking place at Newbridge Roundabout, A24 Farthings Hill and Wickhurst Lane. Work is expected to be last until autumn. For details, search ‘Broadbridge Heath Project’ at www.westsussex.gov.uk

Billingshurst Bowls Club hosts an Open Day on Saturday 20 April, from 2pm.

All are welcome to try green lawn bowls, with members there to talk to. Equipment is supplied free, although flat-soled shoes or trainers are ideal. There will be competitions, a raffle and refreshments.

Further meet and greet sessions are held on Tuesday and Friday evenings in May, from 6 - 7.30pm.

The club green is behind Station Road Gardens with the entrance by the southern end of the swimming pool.

For details, email captain@billingshurstbowlingclub.co.uk www.billingshurstbowlingclub.co.uk

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU! The course is designed to be fun for absolute beginners who have never picked up a brush before through to improvers.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting. Over the course we will explore four different media; pencil drawing & sketching, oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step-by-step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

STILL LIFE TO LANDSCAPES By the end of the course, students will have created a minimum of 12 pieces of their very own original art they can enjoy forever, from simple still life and flower studies to beautiful countryside landscape scenes.

FUN, EASY CLASSES Learn to draw faces, friends, family and pets in the first few weeks. We make it Fun and Easy for you.

YOUNG AT HEART This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way

of meeting new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

LIMITED PLACES To maintain our high standards of tuition, classes are kept to small numbers – so places available are limited! If you are interested, please call now for details.

For information on dates, course fees and bookings, call now on

01256 810 933

Whatever place you’re into

“Catching up with my mates.”

State of the art gym Workout classes Dedicated spin studio Leisure waters Main pool

Health suite Soft play Activity hall Café

Membership types range from single, joint, family, student and corporates. Call us to find out more.

The Pavilions In The Park 01403 219200 Places for People Leisure Ltd working in partnership with Horsham District Council.

THE BIG GIG 19 HORSHAM’S GREATEST FAMILY MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS

Now in its fourth year, The Big Gig promises to offer a fantastically fun festival day out as part of the Horsham District Year of Culture Fringe.

Hosted on the grounds of Horsham Sports Club, this established Family Music festival pledges to get everyone on their feet to a mix of local and internationally acclaimed tribute acts.

Headlining this year are Rule the World, the No.1 Take That tribute band in the world, recognised as such by the band themselves!

Local band Joe90 will kick off the event with Britpop favourites from Oasis, Blur, The Kooks and more. The fabulous Kieran as Ed Sheeran will be followed by A Tribute to Wham. The ever-popular local Blunter Brothers will be there delivering Motown and funk classics from greats including Stevie Wonder and James Brown.

If this wasn’t enough, this year’s festival promises to have more fun activities to keep the whole family entertained. Courtesy of Beautiful World Tents, a fully dressed Giant Hat Tipi will house arts and crafts, with the awesome Ollie Heath offering a beatboxing rhythmic workshop. Bouncy inflatables, balloon modelling and glitter paint completes the festival fun line-up.

Foodies will enjoy the delicious array of street food stalls available, as well as the club’s fully licensed bar. Specialist tents will sell local ales, Prosecco, Pimms and cider.

Festival goers will be able to set up their own space, together with friends and family. Small gazebos (limited to 10ft x 10ft) are welcome.

Please note that no alcohol, glass, or large picnic hampers will be allowed in.

This is a fundraising event, with profits going to improving club facilities and lead charity Action Medical Research for Children. This event is kindly sponsored and supported by local community businesses including Scorpius Administration, Esocialbutterflies, The District Post, XADigital, Beautiful World Tents, Ollie Heath Music Themed Workshops, Singergy and Action Medical Research for Children.

THE PERFECT DAY OUT FOR THE FAMILY! VENUE: The Horsham Sports Club, Cricketfield Road, Horsham, RH12 1TE DATE: Saturday 22 June 2019.

TIME: 1.00 - 10.30pm (Gates open at 1pm, performances from 2.30pm) LINE-UP: Rule The World (Take That) Blunter Brothers (Funk/Soul classics) A Tribute to Wham, Kieran (Ed Sheeran) Joe 90 (Britpop) TICKETS: Advance Standard Adult Ticket: £20 Advance Standard Child Ticket (Aged 5-15): £10 Children Under 5 are FREE. Pre-Booked Car Parking: £5 https://thebiggig19.eventbrite.co.uk or from Horsham Sports Club (cash only) Twitter: @biggighorsham or follow the hashtag #thebiggighorsham Facebook: @biggighorsham

KIERAN

A TRIBUTE TO WHAM

Sam and Ben Holder may be playing to standing ovations before they’ve even left primary school. But it’s a long way to the top, if you wanna rock ‘n’ roll!

Lighting, comprising ten-year-old guitarist/ vocalist Sam and his drumming brother performed their first headline show at Roffey Sports and Social Club on Friday 23 March, belting out classics by the likes of AC/DC, Thunder and Bryan Adams.

The show came less than 18 months after they played together for the first time. Sam recalls: “We learned three songs to perform in front of family at Christmas. My dad taught me how to play the guitar and Ben had an electric drum kit, so we played Highway to Hell, Danger! HighVoltage and We Will Rock You.” “We made some mistakes but everyone was proud of us. Then we played in the talent show at Warnham Primary School, where we were given a standing ovation after playing Summer of ’69.”

Sam Holder, 10, and Ben Holder, 9, at Roffey Sports and Social Club

Feel the Rock!

The brothers’ love of rock music comes from dad Rob, who plays with leading Status Quo tribute act, Quo-Caine. As well as taking the boys to see the Quo live, Lightning have played support slots for Quo-Caine.

Ben Holder, drummer with Lightning

Whilst the boys admit to “growing sick and tired of hearing the Quo all the time,” they’re in no hurry to introduce modern hits to their set-list.

Ben said: “You’ve got to feel the rock! We prefer songs by Thunder! We start with a funky number (Gone, Gone, Gone by The Everly Brothers) and we finish with Parklife by Blur. We’ll be inviting people up on stage to sing the chorus!”

“This gig is a big step for us, as normally we play five or six songs but for our own show we are doing 20. That’s a lot of rehearsing! As brothers, we do argue sometimes over timing.

But I’m able to get everybody back in time with a drum beat.”

For their first headline show, in which Lightning raised £100 for the social media-driven Drum4Ringo challenge, the boys were needing to rely on grownup support. Rob and fellow Quo-Caine member Andy Hosegood were drafted in as lead guitarist and bassist.

In future, the brothers hope that talented musicians their own age can be join the band. “It would be great to find other band members our own age,” said Sam. “But it’s difficult finding people who play to a good level.”

Lightning now hope to record demo tracks to help them secure more gigs. So, watch out for Horsham’s hardest young rockers coming to a venue near you...

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS Follow ‘Lightning Sam and Ben Rock and Roll Covers Band’ on Facebook.

Dad Rob Holder and fellow Quo-Caine member Andy Hosegood add support

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finish throughout. Act now, we are now taking reservations off-plan.

5 star customer service

AAHAPR19 Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Calls may be recorded for training purposes. 5 stars awarded for customer’s willingness to ‘Recommend to a Friend’ in findings of the survey, undertaken by the Home Builders Federation 2017/18. Prices are accurate at the time of going to print.

Email info@bluecoatsports.co.uk

SWIM

TIME

IT IS ALWAYS A GOOD TIME FOR A SWIM OR A SPLASH

AROUND AT BLUECOAT SPORTS AND OUR 25M SWIMMING

POOL IS THE PERFECT PLACE.

Intensive Swimming Courses During school holidays we offer week long Intensive Swimming Courses for children looking to improve on their technique or just try something different. Courses run for half an hour for 5 days and improvements can be dramatic.

Fun

Splash

Our Fun Splash sessions are something the whole family can enjoy and takes place every Saturday and Sunday with additional sessions added during school holidays. It’s a fun way for the kids to burn off some energy!

We have introduced Aqua-Natal Yoga which consists of simple classic yoga poses which are adapted to the water and allows pregnant women to stretch as their baby grows without straining.

Why not release some wonderful endorphins which are good for mummy and baby.

Parent & Baby Swim

AquaNatal Yoga

Once baby has arrived join our parent and baby drop-in sessions which will KHOS \RXU FKLOG JDLQ FRQĆGHQFH LQ WKH ZDWHU 7KHVH LQVWUXFWRU OHG VHVVLRQV DUH plenty of fun with toys and games. Suitable from 3 months to 2 year olds.

We run a Kids Holiday Club during school holidays (except Bank Holidays) for 5-12 years old. Our Kids Club is jam packed with activities each age group will enjoy including swimming! We are now taking bookings for the Easter holidays.

Kids Club

WE WILL ALSO BE RUNNING A VARIETY OF CHILDREN’S CLASSES DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS.

SPEAK TO RECEPTION FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact us today: 01403 247572 | www.bluecoatsports.co.uk

Louise Sloan Opticians: Looking After Your Eyes quality fitting. Some people find it hard to choose frames on their own. We have qualified dispensing opticians and frame stylists on hand to give expert advice to help find something that suits your needs and style.

At Louise Sloan Opticians, eye health checks are included as a standard part of each eye examination.

Last year, we invested in the latest technology, bringing 3D optical tomography (OCT) into the practice.

Louise has found this scan an invaluable early eye health check.

And of course, prevention is better than cure. Louise is happy to advise on ways to help support eye health as well as finding the best visual solutions for each individual.

Piries Place Development to launch this month...

Louise and her team are looking forward to the end of the building works and the start of an exciting new era for Piries Place. If you haven’t yet ventured down to the new Piries Place yet, why not drop in to see us when you come.

Protect your eyes from sunlight…

It is important to protect your eyes from blue and ultraviolet (UV) light all year round, not just in the summer. Research suggests that the harmful UV rays contained in sunlight may be a factor in a number of eye diseases, in particular cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD).

25% OFF A second pair of lenses when you buy a new pair of varifocal glasses.

Do you find that one pair of glasses simply doesn’t cover all your needs? A second pair of glasses can make life easier whether they are for computer work, driving or for hobbies. Ask about the second pair lens offer when you come in for your next eye examination* * Terms and conditions apply, ask in store. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers

Most people are aware of the damage UV light can do to the skin, but not to the eyes. Wearing sunglasses and a broad brimmed hat helps to protect your eyes.

Our sunglasses frames with single vision prescription tinted lenses start at £120*.

Having tinted lenses containing UV filters to adequately block UV rays is important. Style matters too. Louise recommends choosing a well fitting or wrap-around frame that provides more cover.

Ask about our sunglasses package when you come in for an eye test.

Around 80% of damage from UV and blue light occurs before the age of 18. So it’s important that children are offered suitable eye protection too.

…and protection from blue light off electronic devices Blue light emitted from electronic devices can cause eye strain. If you spend several hours a day looking at a computer monitor, tablet or phone then choosing lenses designed to block out the blue spectrum will offer more protection. Blue blocking lenses reduce glare without making everything darker.

Independent service at its best...

As an independent optician, Louise is able to source a wide range of good quality, stylish frames for all the family. Our range of frames is updated constantly. There’s a wide range of beautiful sunglasses frames now in store, selected at a recent London optical show including frames from Paul & Joe, Wolf, William Morris and Land Rover.

We also stock a sports range of sunglasses from Nike, with different styles and tints suited to particular sports like cycling, golf or water sports.

Louise also understands the importance of a really good dispensing service and a high

Ask us more about our health checks for eyes whilst checking out the beautiful new frames for glasses and sunglasses in store.

Also, you can ask for an OCT scan when you come in for an eye test.

What Our Customers Say...

“The care I have received from Louise and her staff has been outstanding. On my first visit, I was impressed by the time Louise spent testing my eyes to make sure she got the exact prescription I needed. Recently, I rang for an emergency appointment and Louise made time to see me on the same day, even though her appointment diary was full. On her recommendation I went straight to hospital and received the treatment I needed. It’s a great opticians. I won’t be going anywhere else.”GS “I recently moved to the area and changed to Louise Sloan's. I am glad I did as the service is amazing, with delightful support staff, and Louise is a skilled and caring optician. Her attention to detail saw me buying some very good day-to-day glasses as well as some for cycling. There is no hard sell, just good quality care and customer service. Highly recommend.” TE

Louise Sloan Opticians is at 1 Piries Place, Horsham, RH12 1EH Open Mon 9am - 5pm, Tue - Fri 9am-5.30pm and Sat 9am-2.30pm.

Call 01403 264682 or follow us on Facebook or visit www.louisesloanopticians.co.uk

Stunning range of contemporary doors with up to 14 locking points

Windows fitted with 5 chamber thermal system for protection

Horsham projects by Mark Antony Windows

All fitted by local specialists with 30 years of experience

If you plan your design carefully, they can be enjoyed all year round. We cover everything from design, project oversight and planning regulation. We also have a wide range of bi-fold doors that offer all the features of our windows and doors, with superb levels of security.

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Our range of doors include contemporary designs by Palladio and the Suffolk Door Collection. They’re available in a wide range of colours and designs. Your door can include as many as 14 locking points.

Even the hinges include anti-jemmy technology!

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Incredible range of bi-fold doors & stylish conservatories

Our windows offer stunning contemporary looks, unrivalled choice, superb energy efficiency, advanced technical design and security features. Modus PVC-U windows are available in 3 sash styles (standard, slim rebate & fully flush) to suit your property.

Mark Antony saved the day for a local family in an episode of Channel 5’s Cowboy Builders

Screen Three

Screen One

Balcony

EVERYMAN

CINEMA BRINGS VINTAGE FLAIR TO HORSHAM As Everyman opens in Piries Place, we meet Venue Manager Rebecca Drees to find out why the cinema’s arrival is causing such a stir...

Do you sense the anticipation regarding the opening?

I've spoken to business owners around town and they seem excited that an Everyman is here. One comment I often hear is that it’s a “good fit” for Horsham.

The town has beautiful pubs and excellent leisure facilities, but there's not much in terms of entertainment.

Obviously, it has The Capitol, which is primarily a theatre, but I think people will appreciate having a cinema in the heart of town.

How have you prepared for the opening?

We tried to emulate a complete service during training days and test screenings.

The first film shown was How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World on Monday 25 April, for staff and guests.

Since then, we’ve had test screenings of A Star is Born, Bohemian Rhapsody and Green Book, among others. It's not really the same without customers, but we’ve prepared as well as possible.

Do you know the town well?

I’ve only been here for six weeks.

Previously, I was Deputy Manager at Everyman in Chelmsford, one of our top locations in the country. Chelmsford has the right demographic for the brand and I hope it's similar here. Both cinemas are in the centre and both towns have been boosted by a John Lewis

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Screen One

development. In Chelmsford, we were busy from day one, which I’d like to repeat!

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Can you describe the Everyman experience?

Everyman is what cinema was meant to be. When you go to the movies, you want to be slightly pampered. Everyman is a boutique cinema that injects a bit of luxury. We know our prices are higher than others, but the personalised service warrants that. There is a sense of nostalgia, as it harks back to an era when people would be excited about the cinema. There’s a touch of boutique class.

This is reflected in the design too…

Everyman is known for its retrochic look. Each site is individually designed by Fusion DNA and every time we open a new venue it looks more refined than the last. As you’ll see from the interior design, we consider every aspect.

Horsham is the first Everyman to have a roof terrace, which

I'm very excited about. It is stunning when the sun is out.

Is dining a big part of the experience?

Everyman is more of a bar/ restaurant with screens attached. People have asked if they can come in just for a drink, which they can. We want people to visit for a drink or a bite to eat during the day, taking advantage of the terrace overlooking Piries Place. When I go to the cinema, I like to make a night of it with good food and drink alongside a comfortable place to watch the film. Everyman has that. It makes a great date night, as you can chat over a glass of wine and a meal before the film.

What food do you offer?

Everyman’s Food and Beverage Manager is very meticulous, so the focus is on quality rather than quantity. There isn’t an extensive menu, but what we have is freshly prepared. We have a selection of pizzas and burgers, served with hand-cut

Screen Two

chips, with Specials changing every three months. Sweets include sundaes, cakes, tubs of retro candy and of course, popcorn. On the drinks side, we have beers and ciders, including Silly Moo, made in the Horsham district. We also have beautiful sparkling wine from Bolney Wine Estate.

Can people order from their cinema seats?

They can. Every seat has a wooden drinks and snacks table and we can bring refreshments to you, during adverts and trailers, prior to the film commencing.

How many screens are there?

We have three screens, each with a combination of armchairs and two person sofas. Screen One, with the red LED lights along the side, is our biggest screen with 98 seats. Screen Two has 88 seats and Screen Three is more intimate, with 52 seats. Whilst it’s a small room, the screen is big, making it ideal for private hire and group screenings. Most Everyman sites have three or four screens, as the boutique feel would be lost if there was much more than that.

Rebecca Drees, Venue Manager of Everyman Horsham

“Everyman makes a great date night, as you can chat over a glass of wine and a meal before the film.”

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Screen Three

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We have a mixture of films, although it’s primarily blockbusters as that's what people want to see.

Our first public screening will be Dumbo and this year is dominated

by Disney, with Toy Story 4, Aladdin, The Lion King and Star Wars: Episode IX all set to be released. We are also screening Monty Python’s Life of Brian soon, and The Italian Job to coincide with Piazza Italia. It’s the 50th anniversary of the film’s original release and it’ll be great to be part of the town’s biggest event. We haven’t yet planned regular classic film nights, as we need to get a feel for the market first. Other Everyman venues have organised things like horror weeks, so we’ll see…

And live shows?

We have live screenings for plays and operas by the Royal Shakespeare Company, The National Theatre, Royal Ballet and occasional events like Take That Greatest Hits Live. There will be a weekly subtitled screening and dementia-friendly screenings from June. We also have a Q&A with writer and director Steven Knight, to coincide with his latest release.

People can become an Everyman member. What does that offer?

We have three levels of membership: Everyman, Everyicon and Everywhere, which give you various perks including discounts on food and drink and private hire, as well as free tickets. Everyman is offering a Founder Membership package for the first time, giving additional bonuses. We have a partnership with Green & Blacks, so members can receive a free chocolate on every visit too!

How is cinema faring in these challenging times?

Cinema is a growing industry, whereas the high street is having a difficult time. Sometimes you need escapism and cinema is perfect.

No matter what, you can go out with friends and enjoy life.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

Visit Everyman Horsham at 16 Piries Place, RH12 1EH For tickets visit www.everymancinema.com/ horsham

A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

A R E YOU RU N N I N G T H E R I S K O F OU T L I V I N G YOU R S AV I N G S ?

In a world of low interest rates, ever-changing legislation and increasing life expectancy, useful guidance on retirement planning is a necessity.

A recent Work and Pensions Committee report identified that 32% of people who withdrew their retirement pots in full chose to save the largest share of it in standard savings products like cash bank accounts and Premium Bonds.

These are likely to have lower rates of return than pension savings as well as potentially higher tax liabilities.1 Indeed, concerns continue to grow for those who choose to draw on their pension savings without taking advice. Drawdown demands a different mindset to that needed by those who retire with an annuity, as it requires individuals to plan their own investment strategy and ensure that withdrawals are sustainable. And while the majority are taking a sensible approach, the minority are withdrawing pension funds at rates that would see this money run out in a decade or less. And if they’re relying solely on the State Pension to see them through their later years, they will have to accept that their standard of living is going to drop significantly.

per week, based on a full NI record in the 2018/2019 tax year), which falls drastically short of what is really needed to fund a comfortable lifestyle.

So how do we avoid poverty in retirement?

First, decide how large a fund you will need. One method is to multiply your target retirement income by 25. For example, if you think you’ll need £25,000 a year, aim for a fund of £625,000.

Next, select the most appropriate investment vehicles to achieve your goal.

Property, investment bonds and ISAs have all proved popular over recent years but don’t offer the same degree of tax breaks as a pension.

The State Pension provides a limited income (£164.35 for a single person,

RE TIRE ES WITH A DR AWDOWN PEN SIO N SHOU LD SEE K ADV ICE WHE N CA LCULAT ING WITHD RAWA LS.

To help avoid running out of money, selecting a balanced and well-diversified investment portfolio is critical, but knowing how much money to take from a drawdown policy is arguably of greater importance.

For further information, or to arrange a no obligation meeting, contact Matthew Wykes on the details below.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

An investment in equities does not provide the security of capital associated with a deposit account with a bank or building society.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.

1

Work and Pensions Committee Report – The effects of pension freedoms, March 2018

MATTHEW WYKES Associate Partner Tel: 01403 710422 | Mob: 07974 062561 Email: matthew.wykes@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.matthewwykes.co.uk

The Partner is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

H2SJP31518 03/19

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Cranfold’s All-Action Girl Amanda Offers

Bespoke Exercise Plan

By Wendyanne Harrison (MCSP)

About Amanda...

Owner, Cranfold Physical Therapy Centre

Amanda practices what she preaches, as she’s currently training for a 60k run (that’s not a typo, SIXTY kilometres!) has competed in several marathons and completed two Ironman events.

Always the action-girl, she was in the British Skydiving team and when not out walking her dogs in the Surrey Hills, regularly takes groups of cyclists across the French Alps.

Oh, and did I mention she’s a trained pilates teacher too…?

Amanda Foxwell, Chartered Physio, keen runner and cyclist, wants to see how you run!

Trained in biomechanics and specialising in musculoskeletal problems (bones, joints, muscles and tendons), Amanda is now offering a one-stop-shop one-hour consultation especially for runners - ideal for anyone running a half or full marathon this year and who wants to avoid or address any niggles, or for keen runners who have hit a problem.

So many of us set ourselves a personal fitness target and are then frustrated by the onset of injury or discomfort. “Often these injuries stem from relatively minor biomechanical issues, or easily addressed muscle imbalances, but due to the repetitive nature of running, they magnify in their impact on our ability to complete our training,” explains Amanda. “Very often, if accurately diagnosed early, these minor issues can be addressed way before they stop us running.”

In the session, Amanda will ask all about your running goals and training schedule.

Then she’ll test your muscle flexibility, joint motion, core stability/strength and discuss any concerns you may have about your running.

You will then have an assessment on the treadmill where you will walk and run for a few minutes whilst she watches and records you. We find this is really useful for you so you can objectively see your own running movement patterns.

See Amanda’s profile at: https://www.cranfoldphysio.co.uk/meet -the-team/amanda-kemp-mcsp-dma/

“Amanda will test your muscle flexibility, joint motion, core stability/strength and discuss any concerns you may have about your running.”

Amanda will then discuss any weaknesses that need to be addressed, or explain how to prevent and stop your niggles with a combination of footwear advice and a bespoke exercise plan. This will be made exclusively for you according to the findings.

Although designed for runners, this assessment also works really well for walkers, of course. So if you’re off to the Lakes at Easter, or the coastal path is calling, maybe consider popping in? We want you to not only reach your goals but to enjoy the journey.

The exercises will be carefully taught to you in the session, and then emailed to you so you can continue with the programme at home. Although there is lots of good general running training advice available, no two people are the same and therefore we believe no two exercise plans should be.

Call us to book your Running Review appointment - just £70 for the whole programme - only available with Amanda in our Horsham Practice in Foundry Lane, Horsham, RH13 5PL. Call us on (01403) 721050 to talk about how we can help you.

We offer therapies including...

Chartered Physiotherapy, PhysioFit & Clinical Pilates Classes, Sports Therapy and Complementary Therapies in Horsham, Cranleigh & Dorking

Visit Our Horsham Practice on Foundry Lane

www.cranfoldphysio.co.uk | 01403 721050

SPA CONCEPT

TURNED INSIDE SOUTH LODGE OPENS £15M FACILITY A stunning spa has opened at South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding.

The £15 million facility includes indoor and outdoor pools, a well-equipped gym, thermal suites, treatment rooms, spin studio, a Ridgeview Beauty Bar and the Botanica café.

The spa, owned and operated by Exclusive Hotels & Venues, was created by architects Felce & Guy, with the concept and interior design managed by Sparcstudio.

Sara Young, Operations Manager at South Lodge Spa, said: “The attention to detail is remarkable. The visual concepts we saw during the planning stage only revealed so much, but now visitors can see that consideration has been given to every aspect, from lighting to furniture and even the art on the walls.”

“We crept slightly over budget, but having committed whole-heartedly to the project, no shortcuts were taken. Even a wooden table for the café was returned as it didn’t meet the natural aesthetic we were looking for.”

“A key ethos of the spa is to embrace the surroundings of the countryside and the South Downs. We want to blur the distinction between inside and outside. So, we have a thermal pool outside, as well as a naturally-heated pond. The gym has its own roof terrace and Botanica café has outdoor seating. Even the building’s design is in-keeping with the surroundings, right down to the grass roof and green oak cladding.”

Images of the indoor pool, therapy/treatment rooms, gym and Botanica (Images by Amy Murrell / Exclusives Hotels & Venues)

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Botanica (Photos on this page by Toby Phillips /AAH)

Alfresco Dining

Something for Everyone

As well as offering pleasant views, Botanica offers casual, alfresco dining.

Whilst some facilities are only accessible to members, Botanica is for all visitors. It is hoped that the relaxed atmosphere will make it a popular destination for locals.

The spa is seen as a long-term investment that will help South Lodge Hotel compete in an ever-changing market.

However, the spa facility itself is already attracting members, with 150 people joining before it had even been officially declared open.

“Botanica is different to what the hotel offers at The Pass and The Camellia restaurants,” says Sara. “They offer a formal dining experience, whereas Botanica has something for everyone.

You can enjoy a coffee with cake, a glass of Ridgeview sparkling wine, or avocado on toast. It’s informal, yet impeccable, as the standard of the food and service is five-star. And if you want to, you can stay for a while and try out one of our treatment rooms!”

“There's huge interest because it ticks all the boxes for certain people,” says Sara.

“There are some very good health clubs and spas, but they may not have pool facilities. There are also well-equipped gyms that don’t have treatment rooms or somewhere to sit down and enjoy quality food.”

“In Surrey, there are several places that offer such facilities. But that’s not the case in West Sussex, so if you are a

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Sara Young, Spa Operations Manager, during construction with David Connell, Manager of South Lodge Hotel.

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“Fourteen nature-themed therapy rooms offer treatments from bamboo to hot stone massages.� couple looking for a spa that can cater for both your needs, it has been difficult. That is why we have people joining who might live half an hour’s drive away.�

Grizzly’s Barbers The spa has 14 nature-themed therapy rooms, offering treatments from bamboo to hot stone tension-releasing massages. Members can enjoy an infused sauna and herbal steam rooms, an indoor infinity edge ozone treated pool, outdoor vitality hydrotherapy pool and the country’s first naturally heated outdoor swimming pond.

The 200-metre squared gym is outfitted with Technogym equipment, and the spa has dedicated spin and holistic studios. On the beauty and

grooming side, Grizzly’s Barbers is nestled alongside Ridgeview Beauty Bar. “We’re seeing a lot of joint memberships, as we cater equally for men and women,� says Sara. “Traditionally, women might enjoy a swim before using the sauna and perhaps treating themselves to a massage or facial. The men would use the gym, but now they can visit the barbers for a luxury haircut or wet shave, with a complimentary beer of course!�

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: AMY MURRELL (COURTESY OF EXCLUSIVE HOTELS & VENUES) & TOBY PHILLIPS You can read more about the spa and membership at: https://www.exclusive.co.uk/ the-spa-at-south-lodge/

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Grizzly’s Barbers at South Lodge and the outdoor vitality hydrotherapy pool (Images by Amy Murrell/Exclusive Hotels & Venues)

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The Horsham Club is a leading team in the Horsham and District Snooker League, winning Division 1 for three years in succession.

Our treatments include fertiliser, herbicide, moss, leather jacket and chafer grub, scarification and seeding, aeration.

With the game’s popularity waning, efforts are being made to encourage a new generation of players. We speak to members Dominic Wakefield, Dean Knight, Marianne Williams and Brad Harper to find out more...

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Dominic: The Horsham Club was founded in the late 19th century and has historically been a social and sports club. There was a misconception of it being a Conservative Club, as its membership was mostly distinguished gentlemen. It had 500 members at its

peak, but times have changed. Whilst there remains an Alternative Luncheon Club and an Investment Club, it is predominantly about snooker now, with a steady membership of about 120.

Dominic: The Horsham Club has been based in the Carfax for about 80 years.

We used to meet within a Victorian building just around the corner. When it was converted into flats, we moved next door, above NatWest. This worked out well, as we have two snooker tables in one room with an adjoining bar, creating a more social atmosphere. Members pay an annual fee and can use the Club whenever they wish.

Leading Horsham player Brad Harper has recorded a break of 142

had Ciba-Geigy Social Club (later Novartis) and The Wingspan Club in Crawley, run by British Airways. There were other venues too, like the Royal British Legion Club, which had two tables. Snooker is growing, but that growth is primarily in the Far East. It’s a shame it’s not growing in this country, as talent is out there.

Dominic: The league now comprises 29 teams across two divisions, with about 250 players in total. The Horsham Club runs five teams. Roffey has good facilities at the Sports and Social Club and enters several teams, whilst YMCA and The Holbrook Club are represented. Village teams have dwindled, but we still have Rusper, Balcombe, Pulborough, Loxwood and Warnham. Teams face each other both home and away, with all five players in the team playing a one frame

“Snooker‘s growth is primarily in the Far East.

It’s a shame it’s not growing in this country, as talent is out there.” match. It’s essentially a best-of-five match.

We hold competitions outside of the league for individuals, grand masters, over-60s and veterans. We also arrange Six Reds competitions, doubles matches and handicap tournaments. There are plenty of opportunities for beginners.

Dean: We have a good team and have won the league for the last few years. We've got a

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Dean: I’m one of several members who learned to play snooker at the Green Baize Billiards & Snooker Club near Littlehaven Station. It opened the year of the ‘black ball final’ between Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor. When I first went there with my brother, players would wait for ages for a table. It was like a ghost club towards the end though, which was sad to see.

Brad: I played at the Green Baize too.

The popularity of the game has dipped since its 1980s hey-day, with the league gradually reducing from five divisions down to just two.

Dominic: The Horsham District Snooker League was formed in 1938 with five divisions, with at least 15 teams in each one. Big local companies used to have social clubs for its employees, so we

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core group of league players, but you need a team of ten to fulfil all your fixtures, as people lead busy lives and cannot play every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evening.

Brad: I recently returned to the game after a long break. In the early 2000s, I tried to turn professional. I was a three-time County Champion, competing against Top 50 players on the circuit. Snooker’s governing body amended the rules, with only the Top 60 qualifying for the tour.

Unfortunately, I was ranked 62. The fees involved in continuing at that level soared. Demoralised, I hung up my cue and didn’t look at a snooker table for 12 years. But I missed it.

When I came to The Horsham Club a year ago, it was nice to see old faces from the Green Baize days!

Marianne Williams is the only female player in the Horsham & District Snooker League

“There are plenty of opportunities for beginners at Horsham and other clubs in the District.”

Dominic: There’s a strong social side here. We are not a stuffy, gentleman's club. In fact, we’re the only team in the league with a female player.

Dominic Wakefield hopes to encourage more young players

The Horsham Club has two of the best tables around

Marianne: I played on the UK Women's Tour until 2013. For a long time, we were largely ignored by the sport. The winner of the World Championships took home £1500, which is nothing compared to what the men earn. Yet the standard is very high. Reanne Evans qualified for the main professional tour and a young woman in Thailand has just recorded a 147 break. World Snooker is now paying attention, as it needs to increase female and disabled participation to qualify as an Olympic sport. I loved being on the tour, as players are supportive of one another.

But the travelling makes it very costly; even a lot of the men find it difficult.

So, there’s work to do if snooker is to become more accessible to women.

Dean: We also need to encourage young players. The Northern Snooker Centre in Leeds still attracts young groups. We’ve lost that in the south, even at top venues like The Castle in Brighton. Parts of Horsham, particularly Roffey, have long been a hotbed of talent, but times have changed. You used to see kids at

THE VENUE

Dean: We want to make it easier for young people to play. There used to be more options, with more clubs and even individuals like Frank Sandell running coaching sessions. Several members of The Horsham Club are looking to become qualified coaches so we can grow a youth section.

Hopefully, we can develop another team and encourage other clubs to do likewise. It’s important, as the game needs new blood.

Marianne: I’ve always had a love/hate relationship with snooker. I stopped competing, but joined The Horsham Club two years ago to improve my game and maybe prepare for another go at joining the tour. One of the nicest things about this club is the social side. Everyone is welcoming and supportive.

Dominic: Personally, I think this is the best snooker club in Horsham. I don't say that lightly, as there are good clubs around. But we certainly have some of the best tables. They date back to the early 1900s, but we re-cloth them to a professional standard every year, to keep them running fast. That increases the chance of recording big breaks.

Brad: Having taken a long break, it feels good to be back playing. I look back with pride as I played the likes of Tony Knowles, Dean Reynolds, Tony Drago, and even Alex Higgins at Warnham Comrades Club. I can’t play as much these days as I have a family, but the progress I've made since returning has been okay. In 1998, I shot back-to-back centuries in the individual final and I'm lucky enough to be the first person to make a ton in the league. I’ve hit a few 80+ breaks recently, so hopefully another century isn't far away! J

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS For details about The Horsham Club, visit www.horsham-club.co.uk There is a section for those interested in joining, with contact details.

The Horsham Club has two tables at its Carfax base

social clubs on Sundays, playing snooker or pool whilst dad had a pint and watched football. That doesn’t happen anymore.

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How has the industry changed?

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What variety of mortgages are available now?

The range is staggering. There are lenders offering mortgages which combine the income of children and parents, or mortgages for young friends buying a property together. Every situation is unique, so we discuss a client’s needs and find the right solution.

We’ve had clients who have found a mortgage they like but could only borrow at four times their salary. We’ve managed to find a similar option but with much higher borrowing potential. From first-time buyers to someone wanting an equity release mortgage in retirement, we are here to help.

Who are your usual clients?

We help anyone looking for a mortgage, whether it be for their first property, buying to let, moving to a bigger or smaller home or releasing equity. We have experience helping a wide range of people regardless of their income, profession or

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How does the process work?

We go through your individual circumstances, current finances and future plans. As an independent broker, we are honest with people so that we can find a mortgage to match their circumstances, both now and in the coming years.

Can’t people get mortgage deals with the big banks direct?

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What about mortgage protection plans?

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What is a later life or retirement mortgage?

The later life lending market has grown so much - offering now a wide range of trade body governed products tailored to older borrowers needs and circumstances. Whether you’re 55 and your standard interestonly mortgage is coming to an end and you need a new plan to pay off the outstanding balance; or you are 70 and want to use the equity in your home to top up your retirement income or release some tax free cash, there are so many different types of products available.

How does a retirement mortgage work?

Usually arranged on an interestonly basis a retirement mortgage is essentially a loan secured against a property that commences during retirement.

The term could be for the lifetime of the homeowner or fixed (10 or 15 years for example). Repayments of the capital and /or the interest are

What are common reasons for having a later life mortgage?

Every case is unique. It could be funding a dream holiday in retirement, covering care costs for an elderly relative, or contributing to a grandchild’s school fees. I often see people with children who they thought would leave home in their early 20s, after finishing university. But they’re having to stay longer, whilst trying to raise a deposit for a property of their own. It may be that parents don’t want to downsize, so another way to help their children get a foot on the property ladder is to re-mortgage.

Is there an upper age limit to getting a mortgage?

It used to be the case that as you neared retirement age, you couldn’t negotiate a mortgage and people would need to lean solely on their pensions, investments or savings to help family members. Now, there are many lenders offering mortgage products to those with a good deposit, a strong credit history and the means to pay off the loan – regardless of age.

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THE TRUTH ABOUT EQUITY RELEASE The equity release mortgage market offers a different product range to retirement mortgages and has changed so much in recent years. A wide range of trade body regulated products tailored to older borrower’s needs and circumstances have replaced products that caused concern in the past. Private Wealth Mortgages have answered some common questions…

grandparents helping younger relatives buy their first property.

Property prices have boomed, so people who bought their house long ago are now sitting on something of great value; more money they would ever need themselves.

Is using my house equity safe?

Equity release did have a bad name prior to the credit crunch, as some lenders were setting unreasonable rates of interest that put people into negative equity. Fortunately, What is equity release and how there’s much tighter regulations now. As standard, all approved does it work? products and plans offer a “No Equity Release allows you to Negative Equity Guarantee” that convert some of the equity you have built up in your home into a ensures that no matter how long you live or what happens to regular retirement income or a lump sum of cash. The equity you property prices, you will never owe more than the value of your have is how much you could sell home. In fact, the ‘Protected your home for in the current Equity Guarantee’ available on market less any mortgage or other debt held against it. Equity some plans will enable you to protect a portion of the value of Release mortgages are offered your home. We’re authorised by based on a clients age and the the Financial Conduct Authority value of their property. You can choose to make interest payments (FCA) and we are members of the or have the interest added to the Equity Release Council (ERC) so you can feel confident releasing loan. People typically release between 20-50% of the property’s cash from your home safely and securely. value.

Why do people release equity from their property?

People look to equity release for various reasons. Some have accrued credit card debt or are having cash flow problems and unlocking money from property can help them get on an even keel. Homeowners want to look after their family and by releasing some value from their property and placing it in a Trust, they are reducing their tax liability through legitimate planning. A more common reason is parents or

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PIAZZA ITALIA HITS THE ROAD STUNNING VEHICLES TOUR THE DISTRICT’S VILLAGES

A cavalcade of beautiful vehicles visited towns and villages across the Horsham District on Sunday 24 March.

Building on the success of the Piazza Italia District Tours in 2016 and 2017, the Showcase Tour saw 40 vehicles set off from Christ’s Hospital School, stopping off in Billingshurst, Pulborough, Storrington, Steyning and Henfield, before ending the Tour at South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding.

Huge crowds greet the cars as they arrive in Steyning

The Tour promoted five separate Horsham events. Italian supercars, including a Ferrari and Lamborghini, were representing the famous Piazza Italia, held over the Easter weekend.

Vehicles connected to the Great British Weekend on 11 May, PlumJam Air-Cooled VW Rally on 26 May, FrenchFest on 14 July, and Horsham AmeriCARna on 29 September were also involved.

Managed by Horsham District Council, the Tour offered the perfect opportunity for local businesses to set out their stalls for the benefit of the spectators

Italian supercars including a Lamborghini and Ferrari were representing Piazza Italia. lining the route to enjoy the unique spectacle. Some hosted fun activities, such as the Italian Market Day in Storrington along with a classic car display by Storrington and District Classic and Sports Car Enthusiasts (SADCASE). There was a French market in Steyning, where the size of the crowd was far greater than anticipated, with street entertainers and food stalls.

Meanwhile, a car-themed shop window competition was staged in Henfield.

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Children enjoyed taking ‘selfies’ with the cars in Steyning

Accompanying the Tour was a travelling band, The Downland Troubadours, aboard a 1925 REO Speedwagon from the Les Searle collection, which added to the atmosphere.

Horsham District Council worked collaboratively with partners across all participating towns and villages including parish councils, community partnerships, businesses including Premier GT, Pilgrim Motorsports and SL2 Signs. SERV Sussex, the blood bike charity, provided riders to guide the Tour, whilst Garlic Wood Events arranged the drivers’ lunches.

PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY Vehicle Registration is open for AmeriCARna on Sunday 29 September. Visit https://goo.gl/Ua1JwF If you organise a club or group not already booked in, email registrations@ horshamamericarna.show For details of all Horsham’s major town centre events, visit horshamtimewellspent.co.uk

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THE LITERARY

GIANTS OF HORSHAM DISTRICT CELEBRATED The Flower Fairy books by Cicely Mary Barker were hugely popular with children (HDC’S Horsham Museum & Art Gallery)

From Frankenstein’s monster to The Gruffalo, via exterminating extraterrestrial cyborgs and murderous plants, writers and artists associated with the Horsham District have created unforgettable giants of fiction.

The best of them feature in a new exhibition at Horsham Museum & Art gallery. Horsham District’s Literary Life Collected, Portrayed, Displayed uses manuscripts, books, paintings and more to highlight the work of great poets and writers.

Thanks to grant funding from the V&A, the Museum will display a heavily annotated edition of Sussex by Hilaire Belloc, as well as a watercolour by Wilfrid Ball, who illustrated the work. Published during Edwardian times, the book explores the heritage of the county.

There’s a nod to John Wyndham, who published Day of the Triffids, which is partly set in Pulborough. The late Ray Cusick, who lived in Horsham, is also featured. His design for the Daleks in Doctor Who spawned an entire industry of writers and comic book illustrators.

The exhibit will also highlight prominent book collectors including Robert Curzon, owner of Parham House, who went book hunting amongst the monasteries of the Levant. He discovered and preserved important books, whilst his exploits were the basis of a Victorian bestseller. The family copy of Visits to Monasteries in the Levant will be displayed alongside other items loaned by The Parham Park Trust.

There’s also a special focus on Southwaterborn Barnaby Bernard Lintot, a leading publisher of the 18th Century. He handled and published literary celebrities including Alexander Pope and Thomas Gray.

Here, we look at some of the leading literary lights from the past 400 years, all of whom are featured in the Museum’s exhibition...

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Blunden attended Christ’s Hospital School, having been awarded a Classics scholarship in 1909. In August 1915, instead of going to Oxford University, he cycled to Chichester to enlist.

book was “greeted as the first satisfactory life of England’s great romantic poet”, even though Blunden argued that Shelley was murdered.

He is commemorated among 16 Great War poets in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey.

He is thought to be the longest serving First World War poet and saw continuous action on the Front Line between 1916-18. He survived nearly two years, although was gassed in 1917.

His most famous work, Undertones of War, was published in 1928.

Throughout his life, he published articles and books on poets, including Shelley: A Life Story in 1946. Time magazine said the

Edmund Blunden went to Christ’s Hospital (right) before enlisting for the Great War (left)

Edmund Charles Blunden (1896 - 1974)

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Mary Godwin (later Shelley) (1797 - 1851) Most famous for writing Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus, published in 1818 and never out of print. In later life, Mary married the poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and lived for a short while at Warnham.

Ernest William Hornung (1866 - 1921)

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Ernest created Arthur J. Raffles, the ‘gentleman thief’ featured in 26 short stories, two plays and a novel. Raffles was a cricketer by day and a burglar of the undeserving rich by night.

The character caught the public’s imagination but not everyone was happy to see a criminal being the hero.

The Spectator described it as a “most reprehensible application of the crude principles involved in the old-fashioned hero-worship of Jack Sheppard and Dick Turpin.”

The stories became hugely successful and briefly rivalled in popularity the Sherlock Holmes books written by his brother-in-law, Conan Doyle. Ernest moved to Partridge Green in 1919, living near his brother, Pitt.

A

Hilaire Belloc (1870 - 1953) Joseph Hilaire Pierre René Belloc was a poet, historian, satirist, soldier, MP and political activist.

A prolific writer, he wrote more than 150 books ranging from current affairs to religion. He’s best remembered for Cautionary Tales for Children, which were often delightfully gruesome comic tales. The book contained the tales of Matilda, who told lies and was burnt to death, and Jim, who ran away from his nurse and was eaten by a lion. They have influenced children’s writers ever since.

Belloc, who moved to Shipley in 1906, is arguably the greatest

ever writer about Sussex, recording its landscapes, villages, traditions and people. He came to be affectionately known as the ‘Sussex Laureate’. His poetry is also celebrated with a Belloc Night held on 27 July, the anniversary of his birthday.

Herman McNeile, or ‘Sapper’ (1888 - 1937) Herman McNeile was a prolific novelist, but is best known for introducing Bulldog Drummond to the world. Drummond was a tough, ex-First World War captain who found peace dull after being de-mobilised.

Ian Fleming admitted that James Bond was “Sapper from the waist up and Mickey Spillane below.”

Bulldog appeared in many books as well as on stage and film. In 1931, McNeile settled in West Chiltington.

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The bad news is that this is causing a number of lenders major servicing problems as they do not have the staff to handle application numbers. One we know of is working on applications submitted two weeks ago and once agreed, taking a further week to send out the mortgage offer! We also have had delays on valuations with some surveyors taking up to two weeks to book an appointment.

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“The mortgage market is really buoyant with good business.”

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Storrington, which she restored and lived in from 1961 until her death.

Hammond Innes (1913 - 1998) Ralph Hammond Innes was born at 63 Clarence Road, then lived in The Causeway, where he attended prep school, before going to Cranbrook School in Kent. He became one of the most successful adventure story writers of the 20th Century.

Hammond’s books were often based on real life experiences.

The Lonely Skier (1947) was written after he’d been skiing in the Dolomites. The success of The Wreck of the Mary Deare (1959), which was made into a Hollywood film, allowed him to buy a 42-foot boat which he and his wife lived in for six months of the year.

Hammond wrote 34 novels, four books for children (under a pseudonym) and six nonfiction books. In his later years, he was a Green

Julia Donaldson performs at the launch of Global Gruffalo (Toby Phillips/AAH)

campaigner, planting trees in Suffolk, Wales, Canada and Australia.

James Herbert (1943 - 2013) Lived in Woodmancote for over 25 years, moving there in the late 1980s. Throughout his hugely successful career, he penned 23 novels, many short stories, as well as a graphic novel, selling 54 million copies worldwide.

He found huge success with his first two books, The Rats and The Fog, whilst his later works

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were masterpieces of the horror genre. Herbert placed much emphasis on his sleeve art, often designing them himself.

This isn’t surprising, for he attended art college and worked as an art director at an advertising agency before becoming a writer.

Julia Donaldson (1948A playwright and performer, Julia was Children’s Laureate from 2011 - 2013. The following year, she moved to Steyning.

Julia wrote songs for children’s television prior to her first book being published in 1993. Six years later, The Gruffalo was published. It led to a string of hugely successful books including Stick Man and Room on the Broom, illustrated by German artist Axel Scheffler.

WORDS: JEREMY KNIGHT (HDC’S HORSHAM MUSEUM) EDITED BY BEN MORRIS PICTURES: HDC’S HORSHAM MUSEUM AND GENEROUS CONTRIBUTORS. Horsham District’s Literary Life - Collected, Portrayed, Displayed opened on 30 March and runs until 22 June. www.horshammuseum.org

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PRESERVING

HISTORY

AT AMBERLEY

The Museum has buses from the much-loved Southdown company

MUSEUM Traditional Crafts & Skills on show as Heritage Centre celebrates 40 years

Josh Payne helps youngsters make their own certificate in the printshop

The finest hour for Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre may have come in 1983, when Roger Moore and Grace Jones visited to film scenes for A View to a Kill.

One dummy of May Day, Grace Jones’ character, was totally destroyed as the explosions outside the former chalk pits were bigger than anticipated!

Today, there’s little mention of the Museum’s role in the Bond classic. Occasionally, visitors can be seen pointing to the mine entrance or working out where Christopher Walken’s airship loomed menacingly over the Downs. But for most people, this local ‘claim to fame’ remains something of a secret. Much like the Museum itself...

FOCUS ON...

Connected Earth & Electricity Hall The Connected Earth exhibit houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Telecoms equipment in the country.

Visitors can trace phone history from operator calls through to modern mobile devices. The exhibit was sponsored by BT, who paid £1million on creating the exhibit in 1994. BT no longer provides funds, so volunteers maintain the collection.

It’s a similar story with Electricity Hall, which boasts an interesting array of items covering electrical history, with demonstrations on high voltage current fascinating youngsters!

The South-Eastern Electricity Board (SEEB) was a great supporter of the Museum, but its efforts were not replicated by its eventual successor, EDF Energy.

Now celebrating its 40th year, it has remarkable exhibits spanning 150 years of Sussex history, brought to life by a team of craftspeople and volunteers.

EARLY DAYS Brian Johnson, Chairman of the Museum Trust, was among those who helped get the project off the ground. He said: “In the early 1970s, there was a group of

people, led by Horsham architect John Warren, who were interested in creating an industrial heritage museum for Sussex and the South-East. The curator of Horsham Museum gave his support, as did the director of Weald and Downland Museum.

The Sussex Industrial Archaeology Society, which still exists, was also a fundamental part of this group.”

“Over the next few years, the ideas grew, but the ideal site didn’t come up. Then, Amberley Chalk Pits was placed on the market in 1974. It had been a chalk pit and lime works for 150 years before going out of business in the late 1960s. The County Council was concerned that the site could be bought and developed into something that would not be an asset to the South Downs, as these were the days before it was declared a National Park. So, to prevent that happening, the council allowed us to create a working museum.”

Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre opened in 1979, with many of the original industrial buildings and equipment from the chalk pits utilised.

John Stanton and keen young helper Alexia Hayward work on an old locomotive

SOCIAL CONTEXT Since then, over 40 exhibits representing different trades have been introduced, ranging from fire stations to pottery workshops. Some collections and artefacts have been donated or supported by individuals, whilst local businesses have also helped preserve and maintain interest in industrial heritage.

In several instances, listed buildings have been moved to Amberley Museum so that they can be maintained for future generations. Long-term residents of the District may find there’s something familiar about the Spooner & Gordon wheelwrights (once in Horsham) or Fairmile Café (formely a roadside cafe near Amberley).

What makes Amberley different is that many of the exhibits are used and enjoyed today. Julia Owen, Curator, said: “Our focus is on giving people an interactive experience. We like to show industry in its social

context, demonstrating the skills once required in various trades.”

“We have a lot of people demonstrating these skills and crafts on-site. One or two are professionals, using the Museum as their working base, including our blacksmith. However, most people here are volunteers and we couldn’t continue without them. Most are retired and see this as a good thing for them to do from a social perspective, whilst also giving something back to the community.”

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“By continuing to do a job that is now probably redundant, they are keeping certain skills alive, so they can be passed on to somebody else in future.”

SCHOOL’S OUT Education is a key part of the Museum’s work, with schools and youth groups regularly visiting, often in relation to a project. The enclosed nature of the site, away from the road and concealed by the South Downs

First sunshine of the year and we have been outside installing an arch at the heart of a new Walled Garden.

It has been left as bare steel, so that it rusts to a natural tan colour.

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Brian Johnson with a Tramocar, which sits alongside a collection of Southdown buses in a replica 1920s garage

“Some exhibits may be more popular, but the purpose of the Museum is to preserve the past for future generations.”

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Brian said: “Our visitors can ride on historic buses and locomotives around the site and experience things handson, as oppose to just looking at exhibits. They feel it, see it, ride it, handle it, and in doing something practical, they learn things that couldn’t be taught in the classroom.”

“Some exhibits may be more popular than others, but the purpose of the Museum is to preserve the past for future generations. If an attraction doesn't work, we don’t just do away with it and introduce something else, as we’re not a theme park.”

“We conserve buildings, artefacts and machines, keeping them in working order and demonstrating how they were once part of life. The interest comes from how it contrasts with the present day.”

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To generate more interest, Amberley Museum regularly hosts themed days, with the vintage and classic car shows among the most popular. A bus rally is held twice annually, with other favourites including motorcycle shows and a Mini day.

For some of these events, Amberley works with clubs, organisations and even other museums. Brian said: “For the bus events, we welcome lots of enthusiasts. Private owners drive their vehicles here and we also bring in buses from museums that specialise in public transportation or automobiles. There's a pool of knowledge we all benefit from.”

“We organise these days to bring people into the Museum, as public admissions keep the place running.

When it comes to developing new exhibitions though, we need to find additional funding from the Lottery or other sources. That’s always a challenge!”

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Call us to arrange parking at the rear of shop.

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Trusted Member

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The Volunteers and Professionals Maintaining the Past at Amberley

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They can make soft sounds audible, whilst at the same time making moderate or loud sounds comfortable.

CHALK PIT FORGE Several businesses operate within Amberley Museum, including Chalk Pit Forge.

Blacksmith Alex Smith creates commissioned pieces using traditional tools and equipment, helping to maintain skills dating back centuries.

Alex said: “I make bespoke items for homes and gardens, ranging from railings and fire accessories to unusual, bespoke ornamental pieces. I’m currently creating an archway for a woman’s garden, using parts from her late husband’s Honda Legend. It’s not a classic car by any means, but it meant a lot to him.”

“As well as commission and making traditional blacksmith items, I offer one-to-one tuition for people who want to learn basic skills.” www.chalkpitforge.co.uk

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Brian Medhurst spent his working life in the print industry

PRINTING PRESS Amberley Museum has managed to amass an incredible collection of printing press machinery.

Volunteers, many of whom have worked in the industry, have managed to get them back in working order for on-site demonstrations.

Brian Medhurst spent his entire career in print, starting at the age of 15. “I have seen the transition of print, from letterpress to photocomposition and finally desktop computing. I’m retired

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Steve Clarke enjoys sharing his passion for stained glass with visitors

STAINED-GLASS Steve Clarke runs a stained-glass workshop on site at the Museum.

During full day courses, visitors can learn simple methods to create items including mirrors, sun catchers, pendants and candleholders.

Steve said: “I use copper foil as it’s easy to cut, shape and solder to hold the stained-glass panels

together. Visitors come and watch me work and I’m always happy to talk about the techniques I use.

I make Kaleidoscopes too. It has no batteries or buttons, so today’s kids don’t understand it!”

THE BROOM MAN Arthur Haffenden has been part of the furniture at Amberley from the outset.

He could be seen operating a digger when the Museum was created, but since retiring in 1999, has turned his hand to broom making.

Arthur uses birch twigs, coppiced from the Slindon Estate, to make traditional sweeping brooms.

“I'm up the creek health-wise, as I have cancer. I was diagnosed in 1999 but was okay for 20 years and thoroughly enjoyed myself. The cancer has returned, but I think you need to keep your mind occupied. By coming here once a week, I see friends and enjoy making brooms with the youngsters. Usually, just as I’m about to call it a day, a load more of them suddenly appear at my door!”

RAILWAY HALL Initially funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the hall houses a range of narrow gauge exhibits.

Its range of steam, diesel and electric locomotives are also used on a rail track that runs around the site, with a team of engineering enthusiasts maintaining the collection.

John Stanton said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of our trains were once used in industry, rather than carrying passengers.

Some were used locally, at places like Warnham Brickworks. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re

The H.D Steele Garage is based on a vintage motor garage, although Steeleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remains a well-known name on the south coast.

currently fundraising for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, a steam engine that worked in a slate quarry. Peter has served the Museum since 1994 but is now out of service. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to raise ÂŁ40,000 for boiler repairs, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 100-years-old!â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a lot of money, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something magical about steam engines. Even children today grow up with things like Thomas the Tank Engine, so keeping these historic locomotives going is as vital as ever.â&#x20AC;?

WHEELWRIGHTS The Spooner & Gordon wheelwrights was once located in London Road, Horsham.

It was dismantled, with the bricks and windows numbered and painstakingly rebuilt at Amberley.

Volunteer Bob Brotherhood said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the invention of the car, wheelwrights needed to evolve, often becoming automotive shops. A century later, people are still doing it as a hobby.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re using traditional tools and methods to make new wagon wheels for the Rural Life Centre near Farnham. We also show children how to fit wooden spokes into the felloes, for which they get a certificate, made in the printing workshop.â&#x20AC;?

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS Amberley Museum is open from 6 March -3 November on Wednesday - Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays.

For details of special events visit www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

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- Diane Keith, June 2018

Horshamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Local Adviser

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Horace Fuller Ltd Established in 1922 Garden Machinery Sales

We sell all major makes and types of machinery, with over 200 machines on display in our showroom and expert advice available.

From Mowers to Tractors, Strimmers to Chainsaws and everything in between

Hayter Launch New Harriers for 2019 Hayter Harrier 48 (2019 Model)

Hayter Harrier 56 (2019 Model)

Only £979

Only £1129

48cm aluminium deck, two-piece rear roller, trim sides (allowing the machine to cut to the edge), easy wash hose system, lifetime warranty against crankshaft bending, high performance collection system, Varicut cutting technology to change air flow for long and short grass, ready start (no choke needed).

56cm aluminium deck, Sense-a Speed (automatically adjusts to your pace), two-piece rear roller, trim sides (allowing the machine to cut to the edge), easy wash hose system, lifetime warranty against crankshaft bending, high performance collection system, Varicut cutting technology to change air flow for long and short grass, ready start (no choke needed).

Professional, Blade Break Clutch and Electric Start versions also available.

Future-proofed through our in-house workshops for warranty and service over the years.

Professional, Blade Break Clutch and Electric Start versions available. Future-proofed for warranty and service.

Fully equipped workshop for all types of garden machinery

Our workshop services can maintain your garden machinery throughout its life, from warranty to servicing and repairs. We provide fixed priced servicing and an expected repair date. If we take something that needs additional work, we provide an updated quote, so you don’t have an unexpected bill.

72-74 Park Street, Horsham, RH12 1BY

01403 265030 horsham@horacefuller.com | www.horacefuller.com

MAKING A SP They start swimming young at The Sussex Swim School...

Hilary Silverman founded the Sussex Swim School to avoid going back to an office job after the birth of her son.

so it’s natural for them. The younger they start, the more relaxed and water-confident they are.

Now, the award-winning school introduces babies to water and turns them into mermaids! Hilary talks to AAH about the business...

To maintain development, we follow the Swim England Duckling Awards before pre-school children work through stages of Swim England’s National Teaching Plan. Because of the size of the pool (12m x 5m), those wishing to progress beyond Stage 7 move on to other swimming schools or clubs.

We teach from newborn, as I believe it’s important to introduce a baby to water as soon as possible. They have lived in their mother’s womb for 40 weeks,

Award-Winning Farm Shop

PLASH

New House Farm Shop and Tea Room is located in a beautifully renovated 16th Century barn, hidden in a quiet spot on the edge of Horsham. People come from all over to enjoy our cafe and locally sourced produce.

Strawberry Fields Tea Room Our tea room was voted Best Tea Room in the Sussex Life Food and Drinks Awards 2014.You can enjoy cakes and sandwiches, paninis and Ploughman’s Also, don’t miss our Full English Breakfast (Served until 12pm).

Local Food and Drink Produce At Sussex Swim School, we have a maximum of six children per class.

I have taught in places where the instructor must stay poolside and physical contact with the children isn’t allowed. This makes it difficult to demonstrate to children how to improve. So, I make it clear to parents that we are hands-on and the teacher will be in the water.

We were thrilled to receive the ASA Silver Award as the Best Swim School in the United Kingdom in 2014. Our success is primarily down to experienced teachers. We are passionate, with competitive swimming backgrounds. But we also understand development. Glenda ran her own swimming school in

South Africa and is excellent with pre-school children; Nick is a triathlete who has won medals at International level; Simon is our Junior Squad coach and has great experience with Mid Sussex Marlins. We have ten teachers and they’re all outstanding.

Teaching aids are important, as they stimulate a child’s imagination. We use bubble machines for children who are reluctant to do backstroke, as the bubbles act as a distraction and relaxes them. We also have an Action Man doll, who we call Tom Daley, to demonstrate stroke patterns.

The Mermaids class is hugely popular. Children must be able to

Our locally sourced produce include fresh fruit and veg, freshly baked bread, fresh meat from local farms, beers and gins by local brewers, wines from the Bolney Estate, Sussex cheeses, greetings cards and great gifts!

Hilary Silverman at Beedinglee

Visit our award-winning tea rooms, serving a Full English Breakfast until midday

www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk 01293 851890 New House Farm, Old Crawley Road, Horsham, RH12 4RU Open Monday - Sunday from 10am - 5pm (Closed Easter Sunday)

The Sounds of Spring

Tawny Owl (Graham Osborne/RSPB)

RSPB Pulborough Brooks

As the air fills with sounds of spring, we can delight in the knowledge that the muffled quiet of winter is over.

swim butterfly leg kicks before becoming Mermaids, as they wear a mono-fin, so can't move their legs independently. This class helps children perfect butterfly technique, so it’s not all about fun! By learning butterfly at a young age, children pick it up more easily.

Too many progress through the stages believing that butterfly is difficult; if you engage them early, they’ll master it.

Swimming has been a huge part of my life. When I was a baby, I had pneumonia. A Swiss specialist told my father to take me swimming every day, so that's what he did. We became a family of swimmers. I competed for Brent and became a Masters swimmer for Mid Sussex Marlins. I swam 18 lengths the day before giving birth and 20 years later, my son swims for Colchester University!

After becoming a mother, I didn't want to go back into office work, so became a swimming teacher instead.

We have an Action Man doll, Tom Daley, to demonstrate stroke patterns to children.

I worked at Pavilions in the Park, teaching large classes of mixed ability children. When it closed for pool repairs, several parents approached me for private tuition, as they wanted continuity with their child’s development. That was how Sussex Swim School was born.

Initially, we used the pool at Handcross Park School. Later, I was introduced to Mrs Longley, who lives at Beedinglee, once part of Leonardslee in Lower Beeding. Her husband ran a construction business and built a swimming pool at his home for his family to enjoy. We use it for classes on Monday to Saturday, maintaining a warm temperature of 31.9˚ and keeping it ozone chlorinated, so it’s safe for pupils with conditions like eczema.

It’s a wonderful setting and a relaxing, safe place for families to come.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS For details, call Hilary on (01444) 744573 or email info@thesussexswimschool.co.uk For class times and holiday courses, visit” thesussexswimschool.co.uk

Daylight hours begin to lengthen, each day giving the birds more time to demonstrate their singing prowess. For those early risers, the dawn chorus is a fantastic way to experience this natural phenomenon but dusk is equally atmospheric. As the light drops, blackbirds call out with their laughing alarm call and you may even hear the hooting of a tawny owl. Echoing across the woodland during the day, the great-spotted woodpecker’s drumming is surely one of the best sounds to herald spring’s arrival.

Plenty of wildlife adds to the soundtrack at this time of year. The phrase ‘busy bee’ is never truer, with queen bumblebees emerging from hibernation and buzzing noisily, sounding like tiny helicopters as they whizz past on their quest for energy-rich nectar! A more unusual noise that is harder to identify comes from the common frog. The males emerge first with mating on their minds – but instead of attracting the ladies with a song, they emit high-pitched squeaks, an unsettling sound when you don’t know what it is!

So, I challenge you to see how many different sound of spring you can discover this month. It’s a great way of slowing down the mind and bringing some focus and clarity to your life – and you may be surprised by what you hear!

Hilary Silverman at Beedinglee pool

The Mermaids Class (Photo submitted)

Anna Allum RSPB Pulborough

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