AAH (All About Horsham) August 2021

AUGUST 2021

AAH (ALL ABOUT HORSHAM) AUGUST 2021 ADVERTISING: BEN MORRIS advertising@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 Rates: Eighth Page £55 + VAT (93mm x 63mm) Quarter Page £110 + VAT (93mm x 133mm) Half Page £185 + VAT (190mm x 133mm) Full Page £310 + VAT (A4 with 4mm bleed) Double Page: £520 + VAT Special offer: Every sixth advert is placed free of charge, like a coffee shop. We can also design adverts if you need help, at no extra charge.

9 News Round-Up Jeremy Knight bids farewell to Horsham Museum and footballer Emily Orman signs for Chelsea

23 Art Gil Parham creates impressive sculptures carved with chainsaws near Billingshurst

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29 Food & Drink The Horsham Brewery Company hopes to grow a craft beer community in the town

34 Business The Tobers have sold oysters for centuries, but are now adapting to offer fresh seafood for all

COVER STORY This month’s cover features composer Paul Lewis at St Andrew’s Parish Church, Nuthurst. Paul was about to conduct the world premiere of his Violin Concerto, as part of a Shipley Arts Festival concert. AAH photographer Alan Wright took some snaps during the rehearsal, with musicians wearing regular clothes. But for the cover, he captured Paul in concert regalia just before the performance.

From a local-interest perspective, it might have made more sense to have Andrew Bernardi and his 1696 Stradivarius on the cover. However, he has had the honour before, in April 2015! Other cover contenders include Rob O’ Rourke with a Ferrari Dino seat, and Nick Tober of the Pure Oyster Company.

ABOUT AAH AAH is an independent monthly magazine, owned by editor Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. It is distributed to 13,000 doors, as well as pick-up points around the District.

EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, West Sussex, RH20 3PT

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAN WRIGHT https://alanwrightphotography.co.uk Email: alan.wright@ alanwrightphotography.co.uk 07747 617387 Alan works for AAH on a freelance basis and is available for family portraits, as well as corporate and commercial work.

AAH ONLINE www.aahorsham.co.uk AAH is published in full online on the 1st of each month. Archive editions are online too, along with many of our past features.

DISTRIBUTION The magazine is delivered to about 13,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages including Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Billingshurst and new estates at Highwood and Wickhurst Green.

DOOR-TO-DOOR TEAM Horsham: Jacquie Paterson, The Judd family, The Rollingson family, George Voisey, Katie Drysdale, Tanya Forbes, The Garner family, Jill Shuker, The Bloomfield family, The Arliss family, Jake Lovett, Lara Green, The Gavira family, Hannah and Harvey Dold, Alessandro Cavallo, Jack Nicholls, The McCormick family, Charlie Merchant, Harry Baker, Melanie Bradley.

Southwater: The Brown family, The Chapman family Villages: The Palmer family (BBH) Amy Butler (Wickhurst Green) Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Max Morris (Ashington), James Hobbs

(Thakeham), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris Family (West Chiltington) Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale - not currently able to deliver) PICK UP POINTS & STANDS Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands, at businesses, clubs and shops across the district.

Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club.

Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Barns Green Village Store, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), Slinfold Golf Club (Slinfold), Steyning Leisure Centre and Cobblestone Walk (Steyning) Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington) Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington) We hope that stands at CoCo’s salon at Southwater and The Bridge Leisure Centre will return soon.

Horsham Museum is closed but the stand will return once it re-opens.

Currently, our stand at Swan Walk is not available, due to Covid.

BACK ISSUES We do keep a few copies of past editions. Copies cost £3.50 each, which includes postage.

Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies EDITOR: FAREWELL BRENDA My grandma, Brenda Wilson, passed away peacefully on Monday 26 July.

During our early years, she delivered AAH in Loxwood and Wisborough Green. One time, after escaping from her care home in her slippers, she had a great time dropping mags into the Carfax in the rain! She will be fondly remembered in Southwater, where she lived in Woodfield for many years, running a garage and marine dealership with my grandad, Jackie.

I spoke to her two days before she died and she was still tapping along to Big Bad John!

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Music

Schools

Motors

Community

The Shipley Arts Festival returns to live music with a world premiere of a Violin Concerto

A change at the top at Farlington School, while QEII in Horsham hosts a colouful outdoor show

O’ Rourke Coachtrimmers in Rudgwick are leaders in restoring the interiors of classic cars

Dandelion Farewells has an open and modern approach when it comes to organising funerals

FIGHT FOR THE AGES Notes from the Editor: The Development Threat that Lingers on

Ifield West (pictured in 2010) has been threatened with development for years

You’ve probably heard and read a lot about the Local Plan in recent months.

10,000 homes on the site, impacting Lambs Green and Rusper too.

If you haven’t, then to briefly explain, it’s a document produced by Horsham District Council setting out where new housing developments will be built between now and 2036.

Because it’s Ifield West, Horsham-focused publications (including AAH) haven’t given it a great deal of attention. Yet in Crawley, the site’s inclusion in HDC’s Local Plan has done nothing to bolster relations between the two towns. Crawley councillors and its MP Henry Smith have been strongly critical.

They feel the development is a “bolt-on” to Crawley, putting strain on its infrastructure while the town itself is largely sidelined from the discussion.

It’s been a big month for the Local Plan. In the week between me writing this and you reading it, the Full Council will have met to discuss and vote on the latest version of the Plan, called Regulation 19. Which sounds like a song by The Beatles, but isn’t as much fun. Chances are, HDC councillors will have decided to move forward with Regulation 19 and give the go-ahead for development on four key strategic sites.

That’s bad news if you object to plans for Buck Barn, Southwater and Billingshurst.

But it’s the fourth site – the biggest - that I want to touch upon here.

The level of opposition struck me when I attended an HDC meeting on the Local Plan on 15 July. I noticed most of the protesters outside Parkside (they were not allowed in because of Covid restrictions) were holding banners about Ifield West.

Ifield West is part of Crawley and is represented on Crawley Borough Council.

Yet the land in question falls within the boundary of Horsham District. Which is handy for us, as it’ll eat up a big chunk of the new homes allocation being demanded by the Government, saving sites like Rookwood and Adversane. For now.

Inside, a handful of people representing campaign groups and affected communities (who had all made prior arrangements to address a question to councillors) made strong arguments concerning some of the strategic sites, particularly the new site proposed at Buck Barn, which would impose heavily on the rewilding project at Knepp. Some stayed and had to bite their tongue as one waffling councillor embarrassingly failed to grasp the concept of wildlife corridors. Yet, there was virtually nothing said about Ifield West.

And like Clark Griswold’s subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club, Ifield West is a gift that’ll keep on giving. Homes England (the government housing association that owns the land) could eventually build up to

In Horsham, we sometimes poke fun at Crawley. Mostly it’s in good jest, but occasionally there’s a hint of snobbery too.

Perhaps that has played a part in Ifield West shouldering our housing burden. Or maybe

The site at Ifield West.

it’s just the least dreadful option that the Council has considered. But we shouldn’t forget that it too is a beautiful rural site.

An ancient parish with a historic Anglican church, lovely pub and a strong sense of community. It’s no less scenic than some villages in the Horsham District where you wouldn’t even dare whisper about development.

There’s a video on YouTube, posted by Homes England. Presumably, it was meant to promote the site’s potential for housing, yet had the opposite effect on me. In the video, Ken Glendinning, Project Director for Homes England, awkwardly reads from a prompter while stood in the corner of the a green field at the site. You can hardly hear him for birds singing nearby...

When I started out as a junior reporter at the Crawley Observer back in 2002, I often wrote stories about the development threat at Ifield West. It cropped up again in the ‘Core Strategy’ discussions in 2010, when I took the above photo of my two-year-old son at the site. And I was amazed to see some residents I interviewed 20 years ago still campaigning now. People like Richard Symonds of the Ifield Society, devoting decades trying to protect the village.

It’s for that reason that I hope that when this Local Plan is finalised and the tough decisions have been made, HDC looks at those sites not selected and offers some assurances (or hard truths) about what the future holds. Otherwise, dark clouds will continue to linger over Rookwood and Adversane, and it’ll feel like they’ve merely lived to die another day.

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HORSHAM NEWS Announcements and Events from across the District

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An artist’s impression of the proposed Rookwood development, which is no longer in HDC’s Local Plan (©Horsham District Council)

Horsham District Council has released an amended version of its Local Plan, outlining where new developments will be built from now until 2036.

The latest version of the Plan, called Regulation 19, has identified four “strategic sites” out of nine that were being considered. These are the sites that will accommodate the largest number of new homes that the Council is under pressure from the Government to provide.

There is good news. HDC has decided that the current site of Rookwood Golf Course will not now be considered for development.

Because of ambiguity in the latest document, some local councillors are seeking clarity as to its long-term future. As owner of the site, the Council is planning to open an in-depth consultation to explore a broader range of leisure and recreational facilities on the land, beyond just golf. In a statement, HDC said it was “fully committed to protecting the unique environment” at the adjacent Warnham Nature Reserve and that “much-needed affordable homes on part of the site could be considered in the future”.

Instead, the Council’s officers are recommending these strategic sites for development: Ifield West (3,250 homes), Buck Barn (2,100 homes), Southwater (1,200 homes) and east of Billingshurst (650 homes).

The Ifield site borders Crawley but is within the Horsham District. It was always likely to be included in the Local Plan as the developer behind the scheme is Homes England, a Government housing agency.

However, its inclusion in the Plan has not been well received in Crawley, with the Borough Council strongly criticising the proposal. As with other sites, there’s concern at the loss of greenfield land and lack of infrastructure. (ifieldsociety.org.uk) In Southwater, the Keep Southwater Green campaign organised a public meeting in late July. Residents are concerned that the Local Plan’s proposal of 1,200 homes is significantly more than the 750 suggested in the village’s own Neighbourhood Plan. (keepsouthwatergreen2020.org.uk) In Billingshurst and surrounding areas, there’s relief that a new neighbourhood at

Adversane is off the cards, for now.

However, campaigners oppose more housing at Little Daux, as the village is already being heavily developed. (bigstand.co.uk) Arguably the most controversial site to have been included is Buck Barn. Local campaigners have accused HDC of ‘environmental vandalism.’ They not only point out the strains on infrastructure (particularly at Cowfold, which has air quality issues) but also are concerned about the impact of the 3,500-home development on the pioneering Knepp Rewilding Project. The developer’s claims regarding biodiversity have also been met with suspicion. (savewestgrinstead.co.uk) AAH hopes to include more in September’s edition. The Full Council of HDC was due to meet on 28 July (after we went to press) and should they approve the Local Plan timetable (as expected, after the Cabinet’s approval on 15 April) a new draft of the Local Plan will be published. This will be subject to a public consultation, running from 10 September – 22 October. www.horsham.gov.uk/planning/local-plan

Faith sculpture by Anton Smit at Leonardslee (©Anne-Katrin Purkiss/AKP)

Horsham District Council’s Environmental Health and Licensing team has appointed three Covid-19 Information Officers. Trudy Elkin, Ian Dewar and Dhruv Amin will provide extra support, informing and engaging with businesses, voluntary groups and communities in relation to Covid-19 safe practices, keeping all parties up to speed with latest developments.

(©Horsham District Council)

The Surrey Sculpture Society’s Summer Exhibition is also being held at Leonardslee. It is the first time the society has staged a major exhibition at the Grade 1 listed gardens. Visitors can discover over 80 diverse sculptures created by both established and emerging artists. The exhibition opened on 30 July and runs until 5 September. www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

(©Horsham District Council)

A new sculpture park will open at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in Lower Beeding in September.

More than 100 sculptures by South African artist Anton Smit will be included in The Walk of Life exhibition, located in the gardens and Leonardslee House. Some sculptures have been in place for several months, but the official launch has been delayed in the hope that Anton and Leonardslee owner Penny Streeter can travel to attend.

Essential improvement work will be carried out at Horsham Park Pond this month. The pond helps gather excess surface water and pollutants that may otherwise enter the River Arun. It has become heavily silted and improvement works will include the excavation of silt, which will be deposited in the park to dry out. For details visit horsham.gov.uk/horshamparkpond

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Toby Miles will take the lead role in this year’s family pantomime, Aladdin, at The Capitol. Toby trained at The Arts Educational School and is currently playing Sky in the UK & International Tour of Mamma Mia! His professional debut as Marius in Les Misérables at the Queen’s Theatre London lead to a nomination for The Stage Debut Award for Best Actor in a Musical.

Toby said: “I grew up in Horsham, so it’s great to have come full circle and return to the venue where I made my on-stage debut aged eight!” This year’s show has a new Production team including Zoë Waterman as Director and Morgan Brind providing the script. Aladdin runs from 3 – 31 December with tickets from www.thecapitolhorsham.com The Clubhouse Bar at The Rec, Albion Way, Horsham, hosts Liverpool FC legend Alan Kennedy on Tuesday 10 August.

He will talk about his illustrious career, sharing the highs and lows of being a professional footballer, before a meet and greet with fans.

This is followed by another footballer, Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock appearing on 8 September. Tickets for each event cost from £25.

TheRECHorsham

Emily Orman at Chelsea FC ©Chelsea Football Club)

Emily Orman, an 18-year-old footballer from Horsham, has been signed by Chelsea FC Women.

Goalkeeper Emily joined the Chelsea Academy aged 16 and has trained with the first team under Emma Hayes. She has also represented England at national performance camps for five years, competing at international age grade through to Under-19s, and played in the UEFA Under-17s Euros. She has signed for Chelsea until summer 2023, with the option to extend by a further year.

Emily, a past recipient of a Horsham District Set4Success award, said: “It’s a dream come true and an honour to sign my first professional contract at this club. It’s something that me, my family and coaches around me have been working to achieve since I was six. It’s an indescribable feeling, but the hard work starts now.”

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Kirsty Goring at Wiston Wine Estate (©Toby Phillips Photography/AAH 2016)

Steyning & District Food and Drink Festival runs from 4 September – 2 October. Celebrating its 10th year, the programme includes a Wiston House garden tour with Wiston sparkling wine, beer festival, Teddy bear’s tea party at Cobblestone Tea House, a Spring’s Smoked Salmon smokery tour and Caroline’s Higgidy Pies foodie challenges. Outdoor events include the Daylands Farm

walk & cream tea, and the everpopular pubs and breweries of Steyning walk with Dr Janet Pennington.

The festival opens with a Farmers’ Market on Saturday 4 September.

Sponsors include Cocoa Loco, Higgidy Pies, Horsham District Council, Steyning Parish Council, The Sussex Grocer and West Grinstead Ploughing Matches.

Loxwood author Roger Nash has published a book Dependant Brethren of Sussex and Surrey, A History of the Cokelers. The Cokelers were a Christian group of shopkeepers founded in 1850 by preacher John Sirgood. His faith groups spread, with Loxwood being the centre, while Warnham was renowned for its sale of furniture and chinaware. As a relative of one of the leaders, Roger has written about the places they lived and interesting characters to present a complete history of their rise and decline. The book is available at Warnham Stores, Loxwood Canal Centre, Petworth Bookshop and online at www.lulu.com/shop

Windlesham House School in Washington has received a generous offer from film producer Arnon Milchan to help renovate its school theatre and creative arts facilities. Arnon lives locally and as a supporter of the creative arts is keen to assist the school in the renovation of its Malden Family Theatre, originally built with funds raised by parents of pupils. Famous actors that attended Windlesham include Guy Ritchie, Tom Hiddleston and Tamsin Merchant. Arnon (pictured with Headmaster Ben Evans) is known for producing films including Pretty Woman, 12 Years a Slave, The Revenant and Bohemian Rhapsody. www.windlesham.com

Become a Host Family for an international pupil at a local boarding school Judith Dandy Independent Funeral Director Dandelion Farewells warmly invites you to contact us if you have any questions about the funeral you need to arrange.

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WOODLANDS

Celebrates 30 Successful Years Woodlands Estate Agents are celebrating 30 years of successfully selling homes in Horsham this year.

Set up in May 1991 by David Jeffrey and Stephen Muggridge, Woodlands has been a household name in the town ever since.

David who lives in Kerves Lane, Horsham, said: “We purchased an existing agency called Cannon & Webb, who were financial advisors but also set up an agency that they then wanted to sell on. The market was very tough in those days, with very high interest rates. But we had a wonderful team who enjoyed the challenge and soon managed to establish ourselves. Woodlands hasn’t looked back since.”

“We have served countless local people over the years and many have become friends. We strive to continue to do well into the future.”

The Woodlands team in 1991. Note the 0403 telephone code!

The property market in Horsham remains extremely buoyant, with many houses receiving strong interest before they are listed on property portals and being sold on a best and final offer basis.

3 South Street, Horsham, RH12 1NR Sales: (01403) 270270 Lettings: (01403) 252100 Email: info@woodlands-estates.co.uk Find us: www.woodlands-estates.co.uk

So, if you are thinking of moving, or are just curious as to what your property might be worth and would like to take use a local firm with over 30 years’ experience, call us now on 01403 270270.

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Free Horsham Heritage Walks are being offered around the historic town centre. The walks are led by experienced Guides and take place from April to September. They usually take about 1¾ hours, but can take longer if the small ad-hoc groups have a lot of questions! The walks are for visitors as well as local people wanting to find out more about local sites including Market Square, Carfax, West Street and St Mary’s Church.

Walks are held on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, starting outside Horsham Museum in Causeway at 2:30pm, irrespective of the weather.

There is no need to book. For details, call (01403) 261905. www.horshamsociety.org A new Artists & Creators event is being held at Berretts Farm, Henfield, BN5 9QY (search for The Cabin on Google Maps) on Bank Holiday Monday 30 August, from 10am – 5pm. The event showcases local creative talent and there will be food and drink sold in the farm grounds, surrounded by countryside. Painters, sculptors, blacksmiths, jewellers, ceramicists, wood turners and all-round creatives interested in exhibiting can email kieran@berrettsfarm.com

Horsham artist Derek Golledge

The Association of Sussex Artists (ASA) hosts its annual exhibition at The Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham, on 13 – 21 August.

The exhibition, postponed last year due to Covid, will feature new work by more than 100 artists, sculptors, potters and woodworkers, with all items for sale. Horsham-based artist Derek Golledge will be among the exhibitors. Now in his eighties, Derek was chairman of the ASA from 2015 until his retirement from the post earlier this year. He has been the driving force behind wide-ranging reforms, including refreshment of the association’s image, and now passes the reins to Tim Wheeler. The ASA Exhibition is open 10:30am - 5pm daily (closes 3:30pm on 21 August).

Admission free. www.associationofsussexartists.co.uk

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Chris and Dave at P&D Bikes in Slinfold (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2014) 16

P & D Custom Bikes hope to hold its 5th annual Bike Show at Slinfold Cricket Club, Lyons Road, RH13 0RY, on Sunday 29 August, 12 – 10pm.

There will be prizes for the best customised bikes, with live music, hot food and bar. pdcustombikes

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The Southwater Country Park paddling beach re-opened to the public on 24 July. A new booking system has been introduced to reduce overcrowding and address the risk of anti-social behaviour.

A maximum of 60 people will be allowed on the beach at any time, with sessions running from 10am - 5.15pm each day.

Last entry is 3.15pm. Bookings are free for one hour 30 minute sessions and must be made in advance. If you arrive and the session is not fully booked, you

can book on a smartphone. The beach has been re-surfaced and topped with shingle, while the Council plans to trial summer evening outdoor catering in partnership with the café. www.horsham.gov.uk/ parks-and-countryside/ southwater-country-park/

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Jeremy Knight at Horsham Museum (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2018)

Young Minds Create is a small local business that provides a unique collection of illustrated children’s books alongside a bespoke design and picture book service.

After 32 years of service, Jeremy Knight has decided to retire as Curator of Horsham Museum and Art Gallery.

His departure comes after a significant amount of work in the last 18 months leading the extensive refurbishment of the Museum’s galleries and displays.

The Museum will re-open to the public at the end of September 2021, when Jeremy will leave his post. The Council, which runs the Museum, has been fortunate to benefit from Jeremy’s extensive knowledge over the years. He has As featured in June’s AAH, The Capitol are celebrating the 85th anniversary of the venue with the launch of Horsham Arts Club.

HAC is a new initiative to highlight some of the best contemporary funk and jazz music acts. The first night showcases W3, the resident funk house band of Ronnie Scott's world famous jazz club. The opening night was delayed due to Covid, but is now planned for Friday 8 October, at 8pm. W3’s performances are inspired by

built strong relationships with key regional and national institutions, enabling the Museum to regularly punch above its weight by hosting nationally important exhibitions and displays.His commitment and dedication has created a special legacy. In a statement, HDC said: “Jeremy will be greatly missed and impossible to replace. His impact in both protecting and promoting the District’s rich heritage is immeasurable.”

A celebration of thanks will be held when the museum re-opens. www.horshammuseum.org

Their current collection includes: My Feel Good Kit What Happens Next?

Making Magic with Vocabulary Each book is designed and illustrated by Donna Marie Rose and aims to support Primary School children with their reading, writing and wellbeing.

All books can be purchased online at ww www.ymindscreate.co.uk www.ymindscreate.co.u www.ymindscreate.co. www.ymindscreate.co www.ymindscreate.c www.ymindscreate. www.ymindscreate www.ymindscreat www.ymindscrea www.ymindscre www.ymindscr www.ymindsc www.yminds www.ymind www.ymin www.ymi www.ym www.y www. www For bespoke services or commissions please contact Donna by email at ymindsc@gmail.com or @ymindscreate artists such as James Brown and Herbie Hancock. Tickets £28 (includes free drink and aftershow) from www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Email News Round-Up submissions to Ben: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

17

IT NEARLY CAME HOME!

Boys in West Street sporting stylish retro England shirts

Flag-waving fans head to the town pubs

On the day of the Euro 2020 Final between England and Italy, we headed into Horsham with a camera to capture fans gathering.

Just in case we won.

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The Sussex Barn was a great place to watch Euro 2020 matches

We arrived at The Holbrook Club in Horsham too early for most supporters, so popped to The Sussex Barn, where the St George’s Cross was already being waved. Next, we tried the town centre, where teenagers sporting an array of classic England shirts had gathered. By the time we made it to Southwater Sports Club, beer was flowing and optimistic punters were dancing on the tables, singing Three Lions, Vindaloo and Sweet Caroline.

Good times and sing-alongs at Southwater Sports Club

But it wasn’t to be England’s night. After the jubilation of Luke Shaw’s early goal, we reminded the world that we’re not very good from 12-yards.

PHOTOS: BEN MORRIS

It wasn’t all beer and Vindaloo at The Sussex Barn

If you’re in a photo here and would like a free jpeg copy, email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Southwater Sports Club set up a marquee for England matches

The Holbrook Club provided a perfect place for families to watch big games

Young footballers in Southwater kept playing right up to kick-off!

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Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management Tel: 01403 710422 | 07974 062561 Email: matthew.wykes@sjpp.co.uk www.matthewwykes.co.uk The Partner Practice 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.

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CHAIN REACTIONS Artist Focus: Gil Parham You may have spotted a badger, an owl, or perhaps even a wizard by the side of the A272 near Billingshurst.

Gil has also assisted in the creation of The Gruffalo Trail at Dean Heritage Centre, which features a carved mouse, owl, fox, snake and of course Gruffalo from author Julia Donaldson’s children’s book. More locally, she carved a griffin into a tree at the front of Muntham House School in Barns Green.

For the past two-and-a-half years, wood carving artist Gil Parham has been based there, selling her creations to passers-by.

Some are simple designs, made quickly by “speed carving” with a chainsaw. Others have been carefully crafted over many days by one of the south’s leading female carvers.

AAH met Gil to find out more about her passion and future ambitions…

Gil says: ‘The work I have here sometimes inspires people’s imagination and they commission me to carve something unique.

I remember one job reminded me of the album cover of Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboys. It turns out the customer was a huge Elton John fan! But the biggest carving I’ve done was in Portugal, where I was part of a team that transformed a 25-foot eucalyptus tree in the Parque de Monserrate.”

ELTON & THE GRUFFALO From the roadside, you only see a small selection of Gil’s best-selling carvings, such as mushrooms and wildlife. They’re presented in a little display on the Coneyhurst Road, just before the railway bridge, with wood chippings from past projects used to make the terrain flatter, so carvings can stand upright.

Most people drive straight by, but those taking the time to stop will perhaps find Gil carving wizards, dragons and other figures from the mythical realm. Or maybe a ball in a cube, one of her more unusual offerings.

Aslan and Moley carvings by Gil Parham (©Toby Phillips Photography/AAH 2016)

This is an example of why wood carvers need a range of different sized chainsaws.

Bigger guide bars are used for cutting away large sections of the original timber block, and this is normally the most physically demanding part of the process. Mediumsize bars are used to chip away more wood to form the basic shape, with smaller chainsaws used for finishing touches, or what Gil calls “doodling.”

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Gil works on a pair of owl carvings

“Doodling is where you add details,” she says. “Sometimes, I don’t have a plan for this part of the process and I doodle with the chainsaw, in the same way you might doodle with a pen and paper while on the phone. Working from blocks is hard work, but it’s the doodling that gives me the most pleasure as an artist.”

WORKING WITH WOOD Gil needs to be selective about timber, as some woods are better than others for carving, while prices can vary greatly.

Willow is one to avoid, as it’s difficult to work with from an artistic point of view.

However, western red cedar works well, as does pine and oak, while sequoia is used for lighter carvings.

Gil said: “People don’t look after the carvings, so if you use the wrong wood, it'll quickly rot. I need to consider practical elements too. I make characters such as Badger and Moley that you can easily lift as they’re made of sequoia. If they were oak, people would struggle to lift them.”

“Some woods cost more than others, but all timber has become much more expensive over the past year. I’m paying

“Working from blocks is hard work, but it’s the doodling that gives me the most pleasure as an artist.” three times more now and my prices need to reflect that. That’s why I tend to have two price points. Some sculptures are small and don’t take much time, so the price reflects that. Other highly detailed pieces, like the seahorse cost more, because of the materials and the amount of time it takes to make them.”

“People don’t always appreciate the effort behind them. With some carvings, I sand right down to the grain to bring out the contours of the wood. And the price isn’t just dictated by the cost of timber, but also the fuel for powering the chainsaw, and the Danish oils used for finishing.”

Seahorse by Gil Parham 25

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TAKING INSPIRATION Gil’s journey began when she assisted Nansi Hemming. Nansi is a leading chainsaw artist and often showcases her skills at rural events, farming fairs and country shows. But Gil didn’t learn the art of chainsaw carving herself for a long time.

“It wasn’t until I was 40 that I picked up a chainsaw,” she says. “If you’d have told me when I was 39 that I’d become a renowned chainsaw carver, I would have thought you were from another planet. I thought carving was a magic that fell out of other people's hands.”

Gil’s not the only wood carver in the family!

Gil’s first step was to earn a diploma in chainsaw operation and maintenance at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire. She attended the course with five men, and was one of just two to pass the course. “I was instantly very good with a chainsaw,” she says. “I still look back at some of my early carvings with pride.”

BIG AMBITIONS Gil’s focus is on improving the current display near Billingshurst. Along with her family, she hopes to create a bigger gallery and workshop on the site, hosting furnituremaking workshops and potentially Small toadstools can be “speed carved.”

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educational courses too. Gil also intends to take part in chainsaw carving competitions at major forestry events. Typically, these see competitors spending two days making a complete piece while also taking part in “speed carving” events for the crowd.

“There’s a whole world of chainsaw carving competition out there,” says Gil. “They are immense fun but very exhausting. I learn so much in just a few days at an APF event (Association of Professional Foresters) as they’re attended by some fantastic artists, all with their own style. There are more women carvers than there used to be, but we’re still greatly outnumbered. It is one of the few hobbies or sports though where we can compete with men on an even keel.”

“However, I’m not ready to compete against the best yet. Nansi is the Queen of Carvers in the UK. I’ve got a huge amount of respect for her and she belongs in the top tier. I’m not there yet, but I will be! There’s much more to come and I feel I'm improving with every piece.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: Email: gilnfez65@gmail.com Tel: 07436 920030 / 01594 543952 woodside sculptors - Gil Parham

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FANCY A BREW? Horsham Brewery Co puts beer at heart of community A new micro-brewery has opened in Horsham with the aim of bringing craft beer closer the community.

a lemon meringue IPA, we’ll create a recipe and host a brew day where you can make the beer and try it on tap. If the beer goes well, we could replicate it on a bigger scale. One customer has asked to make an elderflower pilsner, which we’re calling Denne Hill, as elderflowers grow there. Perhaps if it goes well, we’ll harvest our own elderflower in future.”

The focus on local traditions is evident in the name of the beers at The Horsham Brewery Company Ltd: Normandy, Carfax, Bishopric, Causeway and HBC Best.

There’s a wide range of flavours and aromas in the beers, from Causeway, a 3.8% session pale ale, to Carfax, a 6% IPA made with a combination of Mosaic hops (fruity notes) Citra hops (citrus) and El Dorado hops (giving a firm but balanced bitterness). HBC Best is proving a good seller too, thanks to support from The Kings Arms in Bishopric and Barns Green Social Club, two of the first venues to sell the brewery’s beers.

As well as taking inspiration from the local area for its beer names, Horsham Brewing Co hopes to embed itself into the community by welcoming ideas from customers. “The idea is that anyone can come in and brew in a safe environment,” says co-founder Rohan Hill. “If you fancy

FIREBIRD INSPIRATION The business is fronted by Tim Pitts and Rohan Hill, who met through a mutual passion for craft beer. Rohan’s daughter Lucy completes the team. She helped Tim create Normandy, which has been so well received that a larger batch is now in production.

Rohan Hill pours hops into a brewing tank at Horsham Brewery Company

Rohan’s journey into brewing was inspired by Firebird Brewing in Rudgwick.

He attended a brew day at the awardwinning beer-maker, run by Richard Peters and Bill King, whose family has a rich history of brewing in Horsham through King & Barnes.

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“We think there’s a market for beers with bold new flavours.

We’ve talked about brewing a raspberry lemonade sour beer and a New England IPA.” Rohan Hill

Rohan Hill and Tim Pitts are looking to create bold-flavoured beers

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“My visit to Firebird cemented my interest in ales and ignited a passion for brewing,” says Rohan. “I started home brewing soon after, before joining friends to form Shed, a group of amateur brewers who made some beers for The Fox Inn in Rudgwick. It was there that I met Tim, as he would try our brews. He had this idea of starting a brewery and I wanted to join him for the ride.”

Tim is well-known locally, as joint organiser of the Horsham Beer Festival, with Nick Southon. Tim and Nick have run the event since 2019 after the sad passing of Gareth Jones, owner of The Beer Essentials in East Street. With the blessing of Gareth’s family, Tim and Nick are continuing the event in the same spirit, with tickets for this September’s festival at The Drill Hall selling fast.

“What I love about the festival is there’s nothing corporate about it,” says Tim. “The breweries help each other out, as it’s a close-knit community. They work for the benefit and promotion of all small breweries and create a positive feeling.”

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KEEPING IT LOCAL Tim and Rohan hope to mirror the collaborative spirit of the festival with their new brewery, and contribute to the growth of craft beers in Horsham.

Brook Saunders of Brolly Brewing, Ray Welton of Welton’s and Mike Nugent of Chapeau Brewery are among those who have already offered the newcomers encouragement and support. Although the District has an abundance of breweries including Kissingate, Hepworth’s and Dark Star, Tim and Rohan believe there are still opportunities in the market.

OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE

Rohan says: “If you look at the local breweries, some have identified niche opportunities.

Weston’s has done very well with IPAs and Kissingate is renowned for its dark beers. We think there’s a market for beers with bold new flavours. We’ve talked about brewing raspberry lemonade sour beer and a New England IPA. We’ve spoken to David Howard at Cabin Pressure Spirits about infusing rhubarb from one of his gins into a beer too.”

“We’re also looking at recreating a Polish drink that was once one of the country's most successful beers, before the recipe was lost

during the Second World War. It has recently been rediscovered and we’d love to make our own version, in homage.”

MODERN DRINKING The growth of micro-breweries has led to the rise of a new drinking scene (albeit one that harks back to days gone) where punters can enjoy a tipple directly from the brewers. Not only does this allow drinkers to chat with brewers while taking in the aroma of hops of the brewery – it usually presents a more affordable option too.

FURTHER EXPLORATION...

Kissingate in Lower Beeding creates awardwinning beers, specialising in old style beers such as porters, stouts and milds. You can visit the taprooms, where outdoor seating is available. www.kissingate.co.uk

Firebird is an award-winning craft brewery in Rudgwick.

It’s beers can be purchased in the brewery shop, but it offers free local delivery too. Firebird also hosts brewing days and tours. www.firebirdbrewing.com

Chapeau! is a micro-brewery in Horsham with a range of bike-themed beers. All its beers are available from the brewery, with discounts for those arriving on bikes. www.chapeaubrewing.com

Hepworth’s has a brewery in Stane Street, Pulborough, with a fantastic shop selling its own awardwinning brews, as well as other local drinks. It’s brewery tours are now running too. www.hepworthbrewery.co.uk

Renovated 16th Century Barn New House Farm Shop and Tea Room is located in a beautifully renovated 16th Century barn in a quiet spot on the rural outskirts of Horsham. People come from all over to enjoy our cafe and local produce.

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Now open 7 days a week with outside seating

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Several local breweries offer seating, often in a makeshift manner, and although HBC can only accommodate a handful of people (there’s no license for outside drinking) they are following the example of others by selling beer direct from the taproom.

Tim said: “It’s something we’d love to expand on in future, perhaps teaming up with other breweries to offer a tap room experience in Horsham. For now, we only have a small site to ensure we can make the business sustainable. It’s a great location though, as it’s accessible.”

“Calling the business Horsham Brewery Company aligns us within a growing scene of local food and drink producers. We want to be part of that by working with other businesses and showing customers what we have to offer.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further Information Horsham Brewery Co is open Monday to Friday, 5pm – 9pm Saturdays from 10am – 4pm Horsham Brewing Company, Blatchford Close, RH13 5RG HorshamBreweryCompany

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Co-founders Tim Pitts and Rohan Hill met through a mutual love of craft beers

Beer Festival 2016 (©Toby Phillips/AAH)

Beer Festival

Horsham Beer Festival returns to the Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham, on 3 – 4 September.

There will be three sessions (Friday and Saturday evening, as well as a lunchtime session on Saturday.)

Organisers and beer enthusiasts Nick Southon and Tim Pitts hope to attract around 50 beers and around eight ciders from brewers in Sussex and beyond. As AAH went to press, tickets for Saturday afternoon’s session had sold out already, so don’t hang about! www.horshambeerfestival.co.uk

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34

THE PURE OYSTER COMPANY

GENERATION G

The Pure Oyster Company was no doubt a fitting name for the business when it was founded by Janet Tabor with her sons Joe and Harold in 1907.

More than a century later, the business remains in family hands, now fronted by brothers Nick and Tom Tabor. But while oysters remain, there’s much more on the menu today.

Each generation of Tabor has contributed to the fine reputation of the business, which now delivers wholesale seafood across the South East, supplying pubs, restaurants, care homes and even schools. The brothers’ tenure may come to be defined by their recent decision to sell fresh and frozen seafood directly from their Pease Pottage base, while also launching a second business focusing on nationwide delivery.

FAMILY PASSION

GAME

The Tabor family’s association with oysters goes back even further than 1907. They were trading oysters long before the business was founded, with George Tabor known to operate around Brightlingsea in 1520.

Early in the 20th century, The Pure Oyster Company was based in London, near the old site of Billingsgate fish market. The company developed tank systems for purification, which helped halt the decline in popularity of oysters. Previously, they were known to make people ill, if they’d been harvested from polluted waters.

At its peak, the company shipped many tonnes of oysters around the world every week. But increased competition forced the business to evolve and offer a wider range of seafood. It was Anthony Tabor who moved the business to Pease Pottage, sensing an opportunity in a less-congested marketplace between London and Brighton. Today, he is still involved in the business, with his sons Nick and Tom. They still sell oysters (both Pacific or “rock” oysters as well as the native “flat” oysters.)

But Pure Oyster Company also offers a range of seafood including plaice, sole, hake, cod, haddock, salmon, swordfish, tuna, mackerel, anchovies, clams, cockles, crabs, mussels, langoustine, lobster, squid and scallops.

35

“We don’t want to be the generation that lets it go when there’s so much history. But you still need a passion for fish to succeed.”

Tom Tabor Nick trained as a chef and formerly worked at The Chequers in Rowhook, while Tom studied Business. They employ these different skills to grow the company’s wholesale trade while also exploring new opportunities.

“The business is a blessing and a curse,” says Tom. “We don’t want to be the generation that lets it go when there’s so much history. But you still need a passion for fish to succeed and Nick definitely has that. I’m more interested in the business aspect, so we each contribute in our own way.”

NEW DIRECTION 36

Traditionally, Pure Oyster Company has focused on wholesale trade, with nearly all its customers based in Surrey and Sussex. The Tabors have resisted the temptation to expand much beyond that, happy to serve loyal clients. This way, they’re able to maintain control over the quality of the product, something that big companies struggle with.

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Rock oysters

However, there is still potential to grow, with care homes and schools looking more closely at their menus as part of a continuing drive towards healthier food.

Tom and Nick are also initiating their own ideas, selling directly to the public for the first time. In 2011, Nick created a sister company, Pure Seafood, with the idea of delivering frozen seafood direct to people’s door. The concept of home delivery was then in its infancy, but despite his foresight, Nick’s idea was premature and after four years the business was put aside. However, 2020 was to offer an unexpected opportunity to revive it…

Tom Tabor at the shop in Pease Pottage

Nick says: “I always wanted to offer seafood direct to the public. Apart from fishmongers, which are few and far between in this area, there’s nowhere to buy great-quality fish.

So, I wanted to offer the public the same fish we sell to restaurants. However, the home-delivery market wasn’t there for Pure Seafood and we shelved the idea.”

“It wasn't until Covid that we could look at it again. Suddenly, our regular business was gone as pubs and restaurants were forced to closed. Some offered takeaways but demand was far less than usual. People had to isolate and even after lockdown, many chose not to go out food shopping. So, there was a market for us and we had the time to

Fresh mackerel

focus on it. What we can do that others can’t is process fresh fish quickly. It comes in through Pure Oyster Company and deliver it to customers as Pure Seafood.”

“Initially, we were only delivering in the south east, but now we can deliver nationally. Demand is growing too, as we can sell smaller amounts than wholesalers.

Customers don’t need to buy two kilogram bags of prawns if they don’t want too. They can buy smaller bags that fit in a freezer, like you would at a supermarket but with the bonus of knowing it’s fresh, high quality fish.”

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DUTCH AUCTIONS As well as selling online, there’s a shop at its Pease Pottage site, where the public can buy fresh seafood. But where does all the fish come from?

Most people’s first thought of a fish market is Billingsgate, the historic London market where fish landed all over the country are sold. However, most wholesalers like Pure Oyster Company buy their produce from specialist seafood auctions that operate across the country, from Cornwall to the Shetland Isles. The competition is fierce and the Tabors must compete with buyers not just in the UK, but on the Continent or even Asia.

Tom, Justine and Nick are finding modern ways to take the historic company forward

Tom says: “They tend to be Dutch auctions, with prices starting high and coming down until somebody bids and takes the catch. We liaise with agents to bid across the country, as the south coast is limited in terms of fish. The Cornish coast has more variety, with high quality cod and haddock. We also buy a lot of pollock, coley (coalfish) and hake.”

38

“Prices fluctuate as some agents will sometimes buy certain species and that inflates the price. The Spanish love hake – more than we do in the UK – and there have been times where they’ve bought the entire stock.

Holland buys a lot of the UK’s shrimp as they have factories that can process it in vast quantities. Auctions allow fishing quotas to be monitored too, which is hard to do when fishing boats sell directly from port. The management of the seas is vital and the system helps keeps fishing numbers sustainable.”

Justine Cottenceau, Director of Sales and Marketing at Pure Seafood

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Making the most of ‘Staycation’ boom We were thrilled to be voted ‘Best Specialist Mortgage Broker’ in the What Mortgage Awards 2021.

This is a fantastic achievement and is testament to the hard work that the impact team put in day in day out to help customers get the right mortgage for their needs and requirements. We were also delighted to receive a ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Best Broker Customer Service’ category.

Well done team and a huge thank you to everyone who voted for us.

Nick Tabor with a selection of fresh fish

COD & CHIPS, PLEASE! We are largely unadventurous when it comes to seafood with cod, haddock and salmon remaining the most popular fish.

Tom says: “Our tastes haven’t changed in generations. South coast cod used to be more abundant and there was a time where people were aware of cod being overfished, which led to higher demand for haddock and pollock too, until it was reclassified as a cod fish and the price went up. Hake is a good-tasting fish that has surged in popularity in recent years. Coalfish used to be derided, but it’s now being eaten more. But in the main, people stick to what they know and that’s cod and chips!”

Occasionally, the Tabors receive unusual requests, such as sea urchins and spider crabs. “The

big driving force for these is television,” says Nick.

“Whenever we’re asked about Scottish sea urchins, it’s because a chef from a top restaurant has used it on a TV show! But we need to be more selective about what we offer and when it comes to finding niche foods, it’s still best to head to Billingsgate Market.

There, you see traders offering specific seafood and they may be the only person in the country selling it. But for the more common seafoods, we are here for everybody!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

The last few weeks has seen a huge number of changes in the mortgage market. One lender changed their products every eight days! It is a great time to review your mortgage options with some lenders offering 2 or 3 year fixed rates under 1% and one lender offering a 5 year fixed rate under 1%. It does seem to be a ‘race to the bottom’ currently, but who knows how long these rates will be this low, so act now if your one of the many whose rate is coming up for renewal over the summer period. And always shop around. Your current lender may be offering you a nice rate to stay with them, but it does not mean it is the best rate for you. So, seek professional advice and do your homework!

We have a number of clients who have bought a ‘holiday let’ recently. Effectively a second home, but where you can rent it out when you are not holidaying in it. Devon and Cornwall are very popular recently! With ‘staycation’ being the buzzword of the moment, if this is something you’ve been thinking about, there are a good number of lenders offering these types of mortgages currently.

Finally, you may have seen that we have temporarily closed our Carfax shop. With a number of the team continuing to work from home, and having space in our Barttelot Road office, we’ve relocated the teams together. We are still available as normal, just get in contact on our normal number and we can arrange an appointment to meet with you in either of the offices in Horsham town centre or online via a video call.

Have a great summer and stay safe.

Further information: Pure Seafood, Imperial House, Old Brighton Road South, Pease Pottage, RH11 9AH Tel: 01293 549843 Email: sales@pureseafood.co.uk www.pureseafood.co.uk Pure Seafood

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HORSHAM SOCIETY

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PLANNING: Planning issues are a major concern for the Society as changes made today, for good or ill, will potentially last for a very long time. We review the planning applications for Horsham and respond to strategic planning and public consultations.

ROOKWOOD: We successfully registered Rookwood as an Asset of Community Value. We have also registered the Capitol Theatre and The Drill Hall. We strive to save these and other assets to our town, demonstrated through the adoption of Town Green Spaces and the creation of Conservation Areas.

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PUBLICATIONS Horsham Society publishes leaflets and guides relating to the town, including: GOOD BY DESIGN Encourages better quality building design.

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The guide informs organisations, developers, planners and Horsham District Council.

SPY HORSHAM A children’s trail, developed with support from local schools. It includes 46 challenges which encourage children to seek out hidden treasures in the town centre and Horsham Park.

EVENTS HORSHAM HERITAGE GUIDED WALKS This Horsham Society initiative runs from April to the end of September. The free walks take place every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon at 2.30pm, starting outside Horsham Museum, Causeway.

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TAKE A BOW

World Premiere of Violin Concerto at Shipley Arts Festival

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Paul Lewis (centre) conducts the Bernardi Music Group in rehearsals for the world premiere of his Violin Concerto at St Andrew’s Church

A day before the official “Freedom Day” of Monday 19 July, something special was happening at St Andrew’s Church in the village of Nuthurst.

On a day when 140,000 people crammed into Silverstone to see Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen take their rivalry to a whole new level, the small audience at the church still had to abide by social distancing guidelines for one last time.

So, only a small crowd were present to hear the world premiere of a Violin Concerto by composer Paul Lewis.

However, it was another significant moment for the Shipley Arts Festival, now in its 21st year, and one that further strengthens its reputation.

1696 Stradivarius The Shipley Arts Festival (SAF) has established itself as one of the leading festivals of classical music in the UK. Similar in format to the Aldeburgh Festival (founded by composer Benjamin Britten), SAF is a series of events held over several months.

Musical concerts ranging from opera to jazz or baroque to tangos are held at places of worship, schools and privatelyowned homes, mostly within the Horsham District, including Warnham Park, The Blue Idol, Windlesham House School and St Mary the Virgin Church in Shipley.

At the heart of the festival is local violinist Andrew Bernardi, who plays a 1696 Stradivarius violin. As well as performing as a soloist, Andrew plays in trios and ensembles as part of the Bernardi Music Group (BMG), which features some of the most talented musicians in the area.

He could be forgiven for keeping his valuable violin under lock-and-key and playing a less valuable instrument in public. But for Andrew, it’s important that the Stradivarius is appreciated by the whole community. “For a professional violinist, the Stradivarius is the pinnacle,” he said. “It’s like a racing driver stepping behind the wheel of a Formula One car. It’s an indescribably good feeling.”

“What’s special about the 1696 is that it’s owned by a consortium of friends and supporters of the festival. It’s a shrewd financial investment but an even shrewder cultural investment, as it reflects the musical heritage of Sussex. All but one of our investors is locally-based and they believe in what we’re trying to achieve, in terms of bringing the community together.”

“Since we bought it in 2013, the violin has been at the heart of the festival. It’s become an emblem of excellence and something for the young players in our String Academy to aspire to. That’s why every year we lend it to an outstanding violinist to play.”

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The Bernardi Music Group moments before the premiere of Paul Lewis’ Violin Concerto, a special commission for the Shipley Arts Festival

MARTYN EDWARDS

World Premiere One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s festival is a new Violin Concerto, composed by Paul Lewis. It was due to be performed last year, but was delayed when live music events were curtailed by Covid.

The Concerto is composed in three movements, of which only the second, Shipley Idyll, has been previously performed (at Findon Place in June). The whole piece was heard for the first time at Nuthurst.

Paul, who was present to conduct his own composition, said: “It’s quite conceptual in that the historical 1696 Stradivarius inspired the Concerto. It has a standard three movement form but doesn’t follow conventional classical procedures.”

“The first movement takes the form of a jolly Italian dance and is called Cremona 1696, after the Italian city where the violin was made. The second is Shipley Idyll, to represent the festival and where the violin now lives. This movement takes inspiration from the glorious Sussex countryside, surrounded by the spirit of great composers such as Ralph Vaughan Williams and John Ireland. The final movement is Chinese Adventure, because Andrew has formed an association with an art school in China that we hope will lead to an exciting new chapter for the festival.”

“All three movements are linked by a four-note motif representing the date 1696.

The work opens with that, then I gush about the Sussex countryside before there’s a mad Chinese gallop for the finale!”

Let John Listen...

Paul is best known for compositions for TV and radio, having spent 47 years what he calls “lurching from one show to another!”

He wrote theme tunes to Woof! (about a boy who could turn into a dog) and Bernard’s Watch (about a boy who could stop time with a magical watch). His music has also featured on The Benny Hill Show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Antiques Roadshow.

Paul said: “Early in my career, I wrote library music, which is off-the-shelf music for TV, film and radio when there isn’t the time or money to record something specific. Over the years, these have turned up in anything from British Pathé videos to American TV commercials.”

“When I was 22, I recorded Abject Terror, a mock Hammer Horror piece that sat in the library for decades without attention. Then I started getting royalties from a show called Spongebob Squarepants and had no idea what it was. I was in New Zealand when my wife’s children turned on the TV and – lo and behold – it was my song with this strange cartoon sea sponge!”

“Now, I focus on concert music and I’m thrilled to have finally performed the Violin Concerto. It’s nice to have played it in the same church where Vaughan Williams once performed. Of course, Shipley Church would have been wonderful too, as it’s the home of the festival and another great English composer - John Ireland - is buried there.

Whenever we perform in Shipley, I always leave the door open to let John listen.”

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Email: info@restassuredpets.co.uk Paul Lewis conducting his new Violin Concerto

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Something in the Air The programme for the Nuthurst Concert also included Bach’s Air in D Major, as well as the German composer’s Brandenburg Concerto No.4.

While playing pieces by great composers such as Bach, Mozart and Vivaldi helps sell tickets, SAF takes pride in supporting new work by contemporary composers.

Among its most successful commissions was To Notice Such Things by the late John Lord, formerly of rock band Deep Purple.

The recording reached No.4 on the classical music chart.

This year, in addition to Paul’s Violin Concerto, the Bernardi Music Group performed Great Hills by Cecilia McDowell, a leading light in a new generation of British composers.

The first movement is entitled Lady Blunt’s Stradivarius, in reference to the 1721 instrument which sold at auction for more than $15m in 2011.

Lady Blunt is the greatgrandmother of Lord Lytton, a patron of the festival.

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“The String Academy has helped many young musicians gain scholarships to good schools or to pursue careers in music.”

Victoria Greenwood

The festival also has a String Academy. Here, young players benefit from the experience of musicians in the BMG, many of whom also play in renowned orchestras, including the Royal Philharmonic.

The String Academy has formed an association with the Yehudi Menuhin School. Menuhin was one of the great violinists of the 20th century and as a former teacher of Andrew’s had a major influence on his career. Even now, Andrew still plays his Stradivarius with Menuhin’s bow!

Andrew Bernardi with the 1696 Stradivarius

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Victoria Greenwood, who plays and teaches viola and violin, said: “When Andrew launched the festival 21 years ago, I was one of the few young students involved. It wasn’t a fully-fledged String Academy then, because it was in its infancy, but it gave me the chance to learn from experienced musicians.”

“I first learned how to play the violin at The Weald, before attending Trinity College of Music. But I maintained local connections and now teach at both Junior Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Drama, and the String Academy.

Young musicians are mentored to reach a higher standard and there are opportunities to perform at festival events. It’s a great idea and has helped many young musicians gain scholarships to good schools or to pursue careers in music.”

Arts Council It’s been a challenging two years, with Covid limiting opportunities for live performances. Yet the SAF has enhanced its reputation by continuing to host events online. It was this commitment, coupled with

efforts to nurture talent through the Academy, that led to the SAF receiving a significant grant from the Arts Council earlier this year.

Two of these online events – a concert in aid of Dementia Action Week and a celebration of the festival (including John Ireland’s Toccata) are still available on the website.

Such events helped musicians get through a challenging time and maintain high standards until the welcome return of live music.

This year’s festival has included a concert at Lackenhurst featuring jazz violinist/composer Joe Townsend. At Durrance Manor in Shipley, the audience enjoyed music

by Beethoven and Handel. Still to come are concerts at Warnham Park, hosted by Jonathan and Caroline Lucas, with a programme including Helen Ottaway’s White Storks, a 2020 commission by the SAF. And on 6 November, there’s an Evening of Fireworks at the Old Vicarage in Washington, featuring Handel’s Music of the Royal Fireworks.

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48

Violinist Rachel Lee

Flautist Bruce Martin

In addition to the festival, the BMG has performed a series of Summer Concerts at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens. On 1 September, they will perform with two up-and-coming opera singers, soprano Charlotte Broker and tenor Ben Thapa, with famous arias including Puccini’s Nessun Dorma and Delibes’ Flower Duet.

Bruce Martin, who plays flute and piccolo, first met Andrew in 1994 while playing with the London Concert Orchestra for 27 years. He has performed with the BMG since its foundation and still gets excited about playing live. He says: “I started playing flute at a young age and still feel like that same child when I perform. I play with feeling and respond to the other musicians.

Today, we played Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto and I’ve never played it the same way twice. I like combining with other musicians to create little mini structures within a piece to get the best out of it.”

“Sometimes, I get quite emotional.

Once, I was playing a Piccolo Concerto and it was so emotional, I had to turn my back to the audience.

But that’s what music is about. We all have songs that transport us to a certain time or place, and stir happy or painful memories. For me, if I can translate that feeling to one person in the audience, then it’s been a good day at the office.”

Andrew hopes that the festival will spread further afield and already the BMG has forged links to China, with one live performance on TV watched by 40 million people there. “Exciting things are happening for the festival in China and Paul’s third movement in his new Concerto reflects that.

But even if we attract international attention, we won’t get starry-eyed and lose sight of our core base. We have to stay rooted!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: The Shipley Arts Festival is sponsored by Wakefields, Toovey’s; Kreston Reeves; Nyetimber; NFU Mutual Henfield branch and YuYuan Arts.

For details of future concerts for the Shipley Arts Festival or Leonardslee Summer Series, visit www.bernardimusicgroup.com

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DIFFERENT CLASS

POPULAR HEADMISTRESS MOVES ON FROM FARLINGTON This September sees a change at the helm at Farlington School, with Headmistress Louise Higson moving on after 16 years at the school. During a vibrant and colourful Performing Arts Day, Louise spoke to AAH about her time at the school…

I came to Farlington in 2005 as Head of Upper School, with pastoral responsibility for Years 10 and 11. Prior to that, I had taught at Croydon High School for girls, a boys’ grammar school in Cheshire, and an international school in Milan. So, I have experience of working at state and independent schools, teaching boys, girls, and now a co-educational.

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I became Deputy Head before taking on the role as Head on an interim basis nine years ago. It isn’t often you have an opportunity to try a job before applying for it! But I enjoyed the role and fortunately was appointed by the Governors full-time.

Much has changed during my time at the school. We joined the Bellevue group of schools two years ago, and of course became co-educational, welcoming boys for the first time. The school was looking to the future and co-ed was the natural course to take, as there was no mixed school locally that catered for Reception to Upper Sixth. A lot of parents loved Farlington and what it did for their daughters, but what about their sons? We held a long consultation and most were in favour of the move. Some were unsure, of course, and we had to ensure that welcoming boys wouldn’t change our ethos.

It’s been a gradual process. First, we welcomed boys in Pre-Prep and by September 2020 there were boys across the whole school. It’s been fantastic and feels like they’ve been here forever. It wasn’t a dramatic change for our teaching staff, as we all train to teach co-ed and many have experience of working at other schools. But changing the perception of Farlington in the wider community has taken time, as it’s been a girls’ school for so long.

Louise Higson is leaving after 16 years at Farlington

The numbers of boys at Farlington is continually growing. In September 2021, 32% of our intake will be boys. We hope it’ll eventually be an even split. Our boys are very happy as we made a conscious effort at the beginning to make sure they felt welcome and that the girls were happy too. After all, it had been their school for a long time!

It hasn’t been a straightforward year, because of Covid. Pupils starting here in September 2020 only had one term before we went back into lockdown. In some cases, children joined us as a virtual school having never been here.

We have some boarders with families living overseas, so there have been challenges to overcome.

James Passam will take over as Headmaster

Some pupils couldn’t get home, but our boarding staff have been incredible, keeping boarding houses open during holidays and managing quarantine and isolation guidelines.

We've done everything we can to make sure everyone is comfortable, as it’s been particularly hard on those with families hundreds or even thousands of miles away.

During lockdown, we couldn’t go on trips either, so we organised activities on site for pupils to enjoy in bubbles. It was just as important to keep them positive mentally as to continue with academic lessons. In terms of learning, we were very fortunate as we already had Google Classrooms in place, with each pupil having their own laptop. So, when school finished on the Friday, we were running virtual lessons on the Monday and the transition was seamless.

I think the pandemic has given some people the chance to review their child’s education. Some with children at state schools where sometimes the provision hasn’t been as good, particularly at the beginning of the pandemic when children didn’t have laptops and were struggling to adapt to online teaching, have re-evaluated. Perhaps their children are behind with their schooling and they have seen the work independent schools are doing and are perhaps thinking that now is the time for a change.

After 16 years at Farlington, it feels like the right time to move on. The school is in a healthy position and I’ve achieved all I can. It’ll be in good hands, with James Passam (currently Deputy Head at Seaford College) arriving in September. I need a fresh challenge and will be heading to Lady Barn House School in Cheadle.

I will miss the people at Farlington.

The staff are an incredible bunch of people. It’s a very close-knit community and it feels like a family school. We have some inspirational teachers and staff that go above and beyond, making it a special place.

The students are grounded and w ell-rounded individuals too, as they work hard academically but like to have fun too. I’m proud of them all!

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

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I am Tricia Jones, owner of Mobile Curtain & Blind Showroom, a unique independent curtain and blind service based in Horsham.

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What sets me apart from other curtain shops is that I bring the curtain and blind store to your front door in my showroom vehicle at a time to suit you, including evenings/weekends. I take away the hassle of trips to the shops to select samples of fabric and imagining what they will look like in your home.

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MISSION: POSSIBLE QEII students enjoys outdoor show after challenging year PARENT & CHILD PARENT & TODDLER CLASSES AVAILABLE

Pupils from the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham recently enjoyed an outdoor show at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.

QEII caters for pupils with severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties, or complex needs. Creative arts are an important part of the school’s curriculum, helping pupils develop confidence and independence.

The School Show is a highlight of the calendar, but couldn’t be held in 2020, due to Covid. So, this year’s performance was even more important than usual, after a challenging year.

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The song and dance numbers reflected the new class names.

Having previously been named after trees, classes are now called Beachcombers, Divers, Sailors, Balloonists, Pilots, Astronauts, Adventurers, Pioneers, Trailblazers and Globetrotters, to encourage adventurous learning.

Tony Bright, Head of Creative Arts, said: “We have been in bubbles for a long time and rehearsing in small groups has been a challenge. The whole school didn’t come together until the day of the performance, so they did fantastically well.

Every pupil was involved and it’s a balancing act between encouraging those who want to show everyone what they can do, as well as nurturing the ability of others. But all the pupils respond to music and visual stimuli allows them to explore and experiment in a fun way.”

Greater Intake This year was the first time that the School Show has been held outdoors. With a greater intake of pupils, it’s difficult to fit everybody into the school’s theatre with social distancing, so QEII looked at other options.

It was Leonardslee who offered a venue, although it took time to find an accessible spot.

The School Show celebrates QEII’s new class names

CLAW IN MORE CUSTOMERS There was a range of dance numbers including Wipeout

The weather brought further disruption and threatened to blow away the props and scenery that staff, pupils and helpers spent many hours making. But everything held together for a great show.

Tony added: “It’s a real hands-on event for everyone and we’re very proud of what we achieved. The DVD has just arrived and there’s great excitement about watching the show again. There was a lot of anxiety about doing it outside, but it worked and I suspect it’s something we may do every few years in future.”

QEII’s Creative Arts programme is well-established, with Tony continuing the work of Sue Jay, who left a fantastic legacy after working at the school for many years. As well as the annual show, pupils go on trips and are involved in events such as the Shakespeare Schools Festival.

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: queenelizabeth2.w-sussex.sch.uk

If you would like to promote your business to more people in the Horsham District, then perhaps AAH can help.

We don’t have a sales team and never make cold calls about advertising. Instead, we offer a fantasic service to those who need us.

This includes: Free advert design service Every 6th advert placed free of charge Placement in a magazine rich in editorial content

ABOUT AAH MAGAZINE AAH is delivered to 13,000 homes in Horsham and surrounding villages, with rounds in Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Ashington, Billingshurst and new estates at Highwood, Wickhurst Green and Broadacres.

Copies can be picked up for free from our stylish stands across the Horsham District.

We also publish online at www.aahorsham.co.uk Throughout Covid, we’ve maintained a high standard of editorial and photographic content, continuing to highlight the people, businesses, clubs and organisations that are making a difference in our community.

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contact Ben, the editor, at editor@aahorsham.co.uk 01903 892899

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Shaws Glass has been part of the business landscape in Horsham for over 20 years.

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MATERIAL WORLD HIGH STANDARDS AT O’ ROURKE COACHTRIMMERS, RUDGWICK

Rob O’Rourke specialises in restoring the interiors of classic cars

They are all labelled with the name of some of the world’s most desirable cars: The Ferrari 250 GTO, Ferrari Daytona, Lamborghini Miura and Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing.

“When it comes to restoring a car interior to its original state, these old materials tell us everything we need to know. How the leather was stretched, where the stitching lines were, where the poppers were located in the door trims, what colour the carpets were. Everything has to be authentic, so even our floor mats are based on moulds of originals.”

Each box contains a selection of original material and fabrics collected by owner Rob O’Rourke and his team over many years including seat covers, floor mats, carpets, gear stick covers and door trimmings. Some have sat on the shelf untouched for decades, but occasionally, a project comes up where these pieces prove vital to restoring a car to its original condition.

“We go about our work forensically as the tiniest details matter. Sometimes, we get lucky. With the Porsche America, we found fragments of the original carpet several layers down. There were only 17 of these cars ever made, with only 11 left, and the only photos from the factory are in black and white. So, finding even a tiny fragment is important as we can then match that colour.”

At O’Rourke Coachtrimmers on the Old Rudgwick Brickworks, there is a storage room with rows of boxes lining the shelf.

That is what O’Rourke’s do perhaps better than anyone, meticulously working on the interiors and soft furnishings of famous marquees including Rolls Royce, Bentley, Porsche and Ferrari.

Rob says: “It’s not difficult with modern standards and materials to make the interiors of these cars better than they ever were. However, that would mean taking the character out of them and

Rob with an original Daytona seat cover

that’s not what most customers want.

They want the cars to look exactly as they did when they left the factory in Maranello.

But over the years, some cars have been re-upholstered many times and original materials have been lost. Luckily, I’ve held on to a lot of things, but still find it best not to think about what I’ve thrown out!”

“Classic Porsche and Ferrari have become more valuable than anyone could ever have imagined. If people had known, they would never have thrown anything away! But because they’re so rare, original materials are highly sought and we’re one of the few places equipped with the expertise to handle these cars. Now of course everyone knows the importance of original materials and they are treasured.”

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A Porsche America, Ferrari Dino and Ferrari 265 GTC are among the current interior projects at O’Rourke’s Coachtrimmers

“Most restorers leave notes and clues during a project too, such as hiding carpet fragments, to help future restorers. I’ve found my own notes from cars I worked on 20 years ago! Recently, we worked on a Ferrari California and etched inside the door panel was a handwritten note from the guy who last trimmed the car!”

STARTING OUT

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As a schoolboy, Rob (known as Rorky) would spend his holidays working at his father’s company, Moto Technique in Molesey. Kevin O’ Rourke built up one of the leading classic car restoration companies in the UK and Rob loved working on the world’s most coveted cars. But is was the work of Nick Artuso, who specialised in interiors, that captured his imagination.

He says: “When it came to restoring a chassis, you could spent weeks lying in grease and dust. But with leatherwork, you had something to show after an eight-hour day and I found that very rewarding. I loved the feel and smell of the material and the detail of the leatherwork, and learned a lot from Nick. When he left to start his own business, I had to stand on my own two feet. It was difficult, as I was still learning, but gradually I built up the knowledge required.”

Aged 32, Rob decided to start his own business, specialising in coach trimming. His specialist knowledge ensured he had enough clients to hit the ground running, but it was still a steep learning curve.

“I was offered the use of a barn for what the landlord described as a “peppercorn rent” and spent all my money on heating, flooring and security to bring it up to standard. I was then told the rent

would be £12,000 a year, so that was my first valuable lesson: always get it in writing! I could just about afford it and for a while worked alone, restoring classic cars and hot rods. Then one day, I was putting a job notice in the window of the shop in Ewhurst, looking for someone who could help out. AJ walked by and said he was interested in cars, so came along to look around. He thought I worked with coaches, so when he saw a Ferrari 275 Spyder, he couldn’t believe it!

We've been mates ever since and he’s helped build the business into what it is today.”

AMERICAN DREAM There is always an exciting project on the go at O’Rourke. Currently, the team are installing a new interior and sound system to a Ferrari Dino and giving a Fiat Panda 4x4 a stylish new

“When you see something like a Dymaxion in front of you, it feels like you have the best job in the world.” Rob O’Rourke

look for Turnbull & Asser (a shirtmaker in London). Meanwhile, luxury car specialist Matt is restoring the interior of a Bentley Continental R-Type. Barry also has extensive experience working with Bentley and Rolls Royce cars, as well as the intricate work involved in button pleating veteran cars dating back to the dawn of motoring.

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Restoring the interior of a Bentley Continental

Leather seats for a Porsche America

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Lorenzo Arturo at O’Rourke Coachtrimmers

Perhaps the pick of the current projects is a 1952 Porsche 356, known as an America Roadster.

The one before restored at O’Rourke raced in the 12-hour at Sebring the same weekend it was delivered from the factory.

A wide selection of leathers are required

“Every year, we have a car that’s new and exciting for us all,” says Rob. “We’ve had a Ferrari California and a 250 GTO and I didn’t think it could get any better. Then, we worked on a Dymaxion, a prototype designed

by American Buckminster Fuller during the Great Depression. I hadn’t heard about Dymaxion, but after researching the car, I would have done the job for free as it’s the last remaining of three models ever built. It was an unbelievable project and our enthusiasm won us the job. When you see something like that in front of you, it feels like you have the best job in the world!

COMFY RIDE The price of some of the best preserved and historic Ferraris has rocketed over the past

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decade. A 275 GTB Nart Spider sold for $27m, although that’s loose change compared to the $70m paid for a 1963 Ferrari GTO. With such mind-boggling sums of money at stake, it’s no wonder that some prefer not to use the original interiors. While some of the most coveted cars are kept in storage and rarely driven, more passionate enthusiasts like to show-off. But they often opt for a modern, more comfortable interior, while original materials are kept in a safe place.

“Sometimes, it’s wise not to add wear to the original material by using it,” says Rob. ‘So, people have a modern restoration so they can go out and enjoy the car without being paranoid about damaging the leatherwork.

Usually, it’s more enjoyable to drive that way anyway. It’s remarkable how poorly made some of the original components were, especially in right-hand drive models. Seat frames weren’t always straight and cars that people drool over were in fact quite uncomfortable to drive.

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So, as well as keeping original frames which we can replicate perfectly, we also make more comfortable versions!”

“When it comes to interiors, German marquees such as Mercedes and Porsche were very consistent, but that’s not the case with Ferrari. No two are the same! That’s why we do a thorough research of every car when it is stripped down, to check every tiny detail. When owners show their cars at concourse (an exhibit or competition) it is this attention to detail that will make the difference.”

WORKS OF ART But will future generations care as much about cars for the business to thrive in future? It’s a question Rob ponders as the world edges closer to electric, self-drive vehicles.

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Rob O’Rourke with a seat from a ‘Chairs and Flares’ Dino, which have Daytona style seats and a wider wheel arch.

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“We’re seeing increased demand for cars from the 1980s, including Peugeot 205, VW Golf and BMW 3 Series. But the Ferraris are beyond the means

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of all but the super rich and are often bought by consortiums as investments.”

“It'll be interesting to see what happens when you can’t drive these cars because they’re too expensive to insure, or fossil fuels are banned. Will their value drop because there’s no need for them? Perhaps, but I believe that the most desirable models will become more like priceless works of art. They’ll be something for all to treasure, like a Michelangelo painting.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: enquiries@coachtrimmers.com www.coachtrimmers.com Tel: (01403) 824220 coachtrimmers

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FITTING FAREWELL The company changing how we think about funerals You may have seen advertisements, particularly online, of small companies challenging traditional conventions of organising a funeral.

Judith Dandy, an independent funeral director at Dandelion Farewells, calls them “disruptors”. It’s a group she is proud to be in, with her own Wisborough Greenbased business offering a more bespoke funeral, with family and friends having more control over important aspects of the funeral of a loved one.

“Conventional funerals have not progressed much from the Victoriana of the ‘funeral director’ taking control”, says Judith. “Most are package-orientated and funeral directors have done very well financially for a long time. Now, we are seeing more progressive funeral directors shaking things up and looking at how services can be more catered towards the individual.”

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“Legally, all you need to do is register a death, and there must be a cremation or burial. You don't need to have a funeral, and there are no words that must legally be said. There are so many aspects of the day that aren’t set in stone. So, what we do is talk in-depth to people to find out more about the person who has died and then present them with the full range of options.”

“We call ourselves a “funeral director” as everybody is familiar with the term. But the term is a strange one, as we are not here to direct anyone. The old-fashioned term of an undertaker is much more fitting, as we are here to undertake what you need us to.”

Judith Dandy of Dandelion Farewells in Wisborough Green

“As a community, we’d come together to organise everything else at the funeral, yet the coffin was carried into church by four strangers.

It made me wonder why?”

EPIPHANY MOMENT Dandelion Farewells was established in 2015, after Judith had taken time out of work to raise children. Previously, she was a social worker in adult care services and for part of her degree studied grief and bereavement. Judith expected this interest would lead towards work at a hospice or care home, but a funeral experience would inspire a different career path.

“I saw four men carrying in the coffin and didn’t understand why they were involved.

As a community, we’d come together to organise everything else at the funeral, from selecting the music to compiling the Order of Service, yet the coffin was carried into church by four strangers. It made me wonder why we couldn’t do that? What is it that funeral directors do that we can’t? That was my epiphany moment.”

After researching the industry, Judith spent time working at an established funeral directors. But having previously worked in social care, she wasn’t comfortable with what she deemed to be the “up-selling” of funerals with limousines and expensive coffins.

“It wasn’t caring for the bereaved in the way I understood,” she says. “It didn’t allow people to make personal choices. So, I went to work at a natural burial ground, where I found the funerals were more engaging, with plenty of time devoted to each family.

While they are still registered cemeteries, they don’t have raised headstones and people can be buried in coffins made of natural materials.”

“Families could also have an outdoor ceremony led by ministers of different faiths, non-religious celebrants or other speakers, and were not constrained by a time slot at the Crematorium.”

“The experience broadened my horizons as to what’s possible. Most of us are blinkered when it comes to funerals, but the most common format is primarily for the convenience of funeral directors. Now, people are starting to ask questions about costs and are more inquisitive about where their money is being spent, which is a positive thing. Some people want a simple funerals, which we can provide while still offering the upmost respect and dignity.”

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LET’S TALK...

Judith Dandy and Jo Parsons are open and honest about funeral options

At Dandelion Farewells, Judith and Jo Parsons allow plenty of time to discussing a family’s wishes, either at their base in Wisborough Green, or by visiting people in their own home.

“You learn more about people when they’re drinking tea with slippers on in their own space,” says Judith. “If they’ve just lost a loved one, you can pick up nuances about a person’s character and information about their passions and hobbies, which helps create a more bespoke service.”

Dandelion Farewells also uses a mobile unit. This helps spread word of what the business can offer and encourages people to open-up about their own funeral arrangements. While Judith doesn’t agree with funeral plans, describing them as being “for the convenience of funeral directors”, sharing thoughts and wishes with relatives is something she encourages.

Dandelion Farewells has a mobile unit for people to discuss funeral options

“We have a light-hearted questionnaire and it highlights things that maybe their children would not know about, which is good, as funerals are not a subject people like to talk about.”

“At least half of the time, our customers still want a traditional-style funeral, with a religious ceremony of some description and Limousine hearse. We’re happy to provide that. But what we wouldn’t want is for people to look back and say, “I wish I’d known about that option!” as too often, people are not aware of what they can and can’t do. Just by having a conversation we can broaden their horizons.”

People are changing the ways they look at funerals

“We want to find ways to best serve you at a difficult time. We ask about things you might not have even thought of. When it comes to embalming, is there a hygiene product that someone loved? Perhaps a favourite shampoo? Some people don’t want a limousine, particularly if they’re having a natural burial. So, we also have a people carrier which can accommodate a coffin with seating for relatives. Recently, a young man tragically passed away and his father drove his son on his final journey, which was very important for him.”

‘We have a range of specialist services tailored to individual needs too. Dandelion Dreams nurtures the needs of a family experiencing the loss of a baby or child, or a loss during pregnancy. A Guided Farewell is aimed at those who work or volunteer in the caring profession, who are often involved in discussions on end of life choices.”

“There’s nothing wild or wacky about what we do. It’s just about listening to people and giving them more control, as contributing to a funeral can help people move on with their grief.”

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“Anyone can take a funeral, so if a relative or a friend is great at public speaking and wants to do it, then that’s fine!”

“While offering more control, we also work closer with them than traditional funeral directors and usually hold only one funeral a day, giving people time to say goodbye and ensuring we can be there for them throughout.”

CHURCH SETTINGS Dandelion Farewells offers a cosy setting for people to discuss funerals

One part of funerals that is changing is the religious aspect, with a shift away from formal services.

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Judith says: “Church services have changed, as they needed to, and we are well served locally with phenomenal people of all faiths offering suitable services with modern touches. However, the Church of England remains rigid in terms of its rules and if you want a burial in your local church grounds, you must be mindful of rules and protocols.”

“For those who do not want religion, we have a portfolio of celebrants who offer something different. Often we will think of a certain minister who would suit a service perfectly.

People need to know that anyone can take a funeral, so if a relative or friend is great at public speaking and wants to do it, that’s fine!

“The industry is changing rapidly and people are finally exploring ways for a funeral service to reflect their own life. To do that, we need to reset expectations of what’s possible.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information: Church View, Billingshurst Road, Wisborough Green RH14 0DY judith@dandelionfarewells.com www.dandelionfarewells.com Tel: (01403) 701001 dandelionfarewells

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