AAH July 2017

JULY 2017

5

Seven Million Ways to Place a Curse

What kind of douche runs over ducks?

I

won’t go so far as to say that it’s the worst thing I’ve ever personally witnessed, as I’ve been to Cambodia. And Blackpool for that matter.

But an incident on the A24 near Buck Barn traffic lights on Wednesday 28 June, at 12:49pm, did shock me. Actually, I’ll go further and say I was apoplectic with rage!

I was driving my van on the southbound carriageway, and smiled as I saw a duck and three ducklings scuttling across the northbound carriageway.

I suspect most people would take some pleasure at such a sight, although I am particularly fond of wildlife. Toby, the photographer, often jokes that I’m a secret ‘twitcher’ as I’ve recently spotted a green woodpecker at Bolney wine estate, a red kite over the Knepp estate and a goldfinch in the garden of St Peter’s Church in Cowfold, whilst on Father’s Day, I was in the woods at 6am with my youngest son on a successful adder hunt!

So, naturally I was pleased to see a duck and her ducklings. They’d evidently been fortunate with the timing of the traffic lights at Buck Barn, hurrying across the southbound carriageway whilst the main flow of vehicles awaited the green light.

The ducks’ lucky streak appeared to continue as there was only one car anywhere near them as they hastily made their way across the two lanes of the northbound carriageway.

Just one blue hatchback was heading their way on the inside lane. With no vehicles behind them and travelling at a safe speed, the driver would easily see the ducks, slow down, and move into the other lane to allow the ducks to successfully negotiate the last few yards of their perilous journey.

Surely, you’re going to move over? Surely, you’re going to get in the other lane?

“Noooooo! Why would you do

July 2017 JULY 2017

Ben Morris Words & Layout Toby Phillips Photography

Thanks

Robert Arbuthnott for photographs in the ‘My Story So Far’ section Emily Summers for the RSPB Pulborough Brooks column Joanna Wenczka for providing additional images of her art New House Farm (above) for the raspberries Mannings Heath Golf Club and Wine Estate for a great day out.

Ben shot a lousy round of 112 but loved it and only lost seven balls.

that!” I shouted out loud at the wheel of my van, as I suspect did several others in vehicles behind.

Lady luck had deserted the ducks. They had encountered one of the greatest douchebags of all time.

The driver didn’t slow down and didn’t alter his path. One duckling was killed instantly, whilst for the rest, sleep will be forever interrupted by nightmarish flashbacks.

There wasn’t anything I could do about it.

I couldn’t remonstrate with the driver as I was heading in the opposite direction. In the eyes of the law, if I’d have given chase and rammed the car off the road, I would have been in the wrong.

Although, were this a Hollywood movie, where the ducks had names and were voiced by Steve

Carrell, such an act of vengeance would be well received by the audience.

It would also be a waste of time to call the police and report that you’ve just seen somebody seemingly deliberately run over ducklings.

It’s common knowledge that the police are severely stretched.

There are simply not enough officers to make sure that people don’t run over ducks. A situation that compares poorly to Canada, where officers in Alberta went above and beyond the call of duty to rescue seven ducklings from a sewer.

I wonder how much more resources our police would need before we reached a point where such complaints could be investigated? I’m sure there

would be public support for aggressive prosecutions in such cases...

Perhaps one day, we’ll live in a world like that imagined in Simon Amstell’s film, Carnage (where animals are treated with equal status to humans) and people who drive over ducklings might appear on Crimewatch.

After the usual round-up of petty thieves who steal Ginster’s pasties from service stations, Jeremy Vine could take a couple of steps towards the camera and adopt his rehearsed tone of concern.

“Now we turn our attention to a horrendous case; a motorist who maliciously killed a duckling whilst it was going about its daily business. Warning, there are scenes viewers may find upsetting.”

We don’t live in such a world, so there’s nothing I can do.

However, I have just typed ‘Putting a Curse on Someone’ into Google and was encouraged to see 7,660,000 results come up.

I’m going to spend the next month working through them.

Surely one of them will work?

So, if it was you that run over that poor little duckling, please do drop me a message if there were mitigating circumstances.

I did not see events leading up to the incident. Perhaps, moments earlier, you had been driving on the southbound carriageway and had stopped to allow the ducks across. Yet, despite your gesture, the mummy duck chatted to you, acting as a decoy whilst her duckling stole your wallet. Like Fagan and the Artful Dodger.

Perhaps you’re a spy in the secret service and you’d been issued an ultimatum by North Korea to run over a family of ducks or else they’d launch a nuclear missile?

Which I sort of hope is true; otherwise, you’re just a douche who runs over ducklings. You’ve reached the top, the pinnacle of doucheness. Good going douche, your dreams have come true!

Ben

6

To submit Letters to the Editor please email Ben: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

CONTENTS 10

News Round-Up

Matt Charman Q&A at The Capitol and Sussex Artists Exhibition

21

Events For the first time, men take part in the Midnight Walk for St Catherine’s

27

My Story Robert Arbuthnott recalls his days working in India, Malaysia and Nepal

33

Dance Michael Kopinski provides specialist ballet classes at his home studio

38

Music The work of QM Studios has become increasingly community-focused

45

Community Horsham-based charity Music for All helps people chase their dreams

49 Art

How animation helps inspire the diverse work of Joanna Wenczka

55

Food & Drink WiFiFo is creating a social revolution with a unique approach to cooking

62

Business How Jack Dunckley went from teenage landscaper to nursery owner

COVER STORY: JULY 2017 Our July 2017 cover features Jon Stefani and Seni Glaister, the founders of WiFiFo, at their home near Horsham.

They were hosting an interesting event to showcase the work of WiFiFo, which promotes social interaction through food.

Jon, one of the event chefs on the day, took a break for this photo. It wasn’t a simple task for photographer Toby, as we visited at lunchtime on a very hot day. This meant he

had to work hard to avoid face shadow.

For this image, Toby had to clamber over some logs and squeeze into a corner of Jon and Seni’s spacious courtyard, using a studio light to help overpower some of the natural sunlight!

Other cover options included landscape designer Jack Dunckley, ballet dancer Michael Kopinski and pizza chef Michael Hanson, who was also at the WiFiFo event.

AAH: THE TEAM EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 LETTERS: The Editor, AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT ADVERTISING: KELLY MORRIS advertising@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 PHOTOGRAPHY: TOBY PHILLIPS www.tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk info@tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk 07968 795625 WEBSITE: www.aahorsham.co.uk We publish AAH online every month. You can read archive editions too.

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NEWS ROUND-UP

10: NEWS

A Chris Nash Testimonial is played at Horsham Cricket Club on 21 June

Sue Jay of Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham has won a Silver Teaching Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education.

Selected from thousands of nominations, Sue was awarded a prestigious Silver Pearson Teaching

Award, an annual celebration of exceptional teachers, created to recognise the life-changing impact an inspirational teacher can have on the lives of young people. Sue will join fellow Silver Award winners at the UK final of the Pearson Teaching

Awards in London on 22 October.

There, they will find out which of them has won one of just 11 Gold Plato Awards, the UK’s ‘Oscars for Teachers.’

Image: Stephen Candy Photography

Mannings Heath Golf Club and Wine Estate hosts a wine and fine chocolate evening on Thursday 13 July, at 7pm. Taste the unique wines of Benguela Cove, South Africa, paired perfectly with award-winning chocolates from Cocoa Loco. Tickets cost £10 from 01403 220345 or email sales@manningsheath.com

Free guided historical walks will be held around Horsham on 9, 12 & 16 July, as part of the Horsham Festival. Hosted by The Horsham Society, the free walks begin at Horsham Museum, The Causeway, at 2:30pm on all three dates.

The Association of Sussex Artists hosts its 105th annual exhibition at the Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham from 18 – 26 August, 10am – 5pm daily (3pm final day).

It attracts an exceptionally high standard of work in drawing, painting, pottery, ceramics and sculpture, employing a wide

range of expertise and techniques.

About 150 artists from Sussex are involved. Some members will demonstrate their skills on Saturday 8 and 15 July as Artists in Residence at Horsham Museum, as part of the Horsham Festival. Admission is free. www.associationofsussexartists.co.uk

NEWS: 11

Ashington Festival will be held on Saturday 19 August, from 1:30 – 11pm. The carnival procession starts at 1.30pm with carnival princess Isabelle Wieland heading the parade. Music comes from Paul Jackson as Freddie Mercury and Speedboatz, before a fantastic firework display at 10pm. Arena highlights include the Stallions of Substance, the Essex Dog Display Team, Tom Foolery, the Medina Marching Band and a fun dog show. Other attractions include Harris Brothers funfair (pictured above) car boot sale, flower show, car show, craft, charity and animal stalls and sideshows. www.ashingtonfestival.co.uk

Cancer Research UK is encouraging family, friends and work colleagues to get together and enter Relay for Life Rock Around the Clock, a unique year-round inspirational team fundraising challenge.

Teams of between eight to 15 people, of all ages, levels of fitness and walks of life are asked can raise vital funds through a wide range of activities from karaoke to quizzes, before they are then invited to take part in the

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Relay for Life itself. This is an overnight fundraising festival at Handcross Park School on 26 August. During the relay, team members take it in turns to walk round a track while everyone else enjoys the carnival atmosphere.

As the event continues non-stop through the night, team members not on track take turns to rest, eat, or sleep in their tents, which are set up close by. cruk.org/relay

Chantry Dance Company host a free talk and contemporary dance demonstration at The Capitol on Wednesday 19 July, at 7pm.

Contemporary Dance Demystified shows how contemporary dance can be entertaining and accessible to everyone. Paul Chantry and Rae Piper are well-known as choreographers of popular stage shows including the Horrible Histories shows. The talk is suitable for ages 7+ and is ideal for schools, dance groups, and students studying dance at all levels. You must pre-book a ticket to reserve your seat at www.thecapitolhorsham.com

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NEWS ROUND-UP

12: NEWS

Many local events are posted at www.aahorsham.co.uk

Christ’s Hospital pupil Lennox Anyanwu was recently selected in the starting XV to represent England U16s against Wales.

Lennox is the first recipient of Christ’s Hospital’s Joe Launchbury rugby scholarship and was delighted to receive a message from Joe to wish him good luck before the match. The selection was made following Lennox’s impressive performance when representing Harlequins in the RFU Academies U16 festival during the Easter holiday.

Screenwriter, playwright and director Matt Charman discusses his life in theatre and film at The Capitol on Tuesday 11 July, at 7.30pm. Matt, a former Collyer’s student, received an Academy Award nomination in 2015 for Best Original Screenplay, for Bridge of Spies, directed by Steven Spielberg.

Matt is again collaborating with Spielberg on a film about legendary

anchorman Walter Cronkite and his seminal coverage of the Vietnam War. The former Forest pupil recently wrote Oasis, a pilot for Amazon, as well as Our Zoo (2014) for the BBC and miniseries Blackwork (2015). He has written several successful plays, including three staged at the National Theatre.

This Q&A discussion will be hosted by AAH editor Ben Morris. Tickets £12 from www.thecapitolhorsham.com

The Horsham Riverside Walk will be held on Saturday 15 July, at 10am - 4pm. The 13-mile guided walk around the Riverside Walk starts at Horsham Rugby Club.

Organised by Horsham Town Community Partnership, the route includes several mills, the remains of a motte and bailey castle and Leechpool woods. Email horshamriversidewalk@gmail.com

New House Farm Shop & Tea Room on Old Crawley Road, Horsham, opens its first maize maze this summer. Marking the 40th anniversary of Star Wars, the maize has a ‘Baah Wars’ theme and Darth Vader design, with clues helping visitors follow a path around the crop, which can grow up to 8ft high. Younger visitors can experience the specially designed mini maze. Like the ‘New House Farm Maze’ Facebook page for more details. Adults £8, Children £6.50

NEWS ROUND-UP

14: NEWS

The Horsham Garden Music Festival returns for its sixth year in the Human Nature Garden in Horsham Park.

Musical Mayhem on Saturday 15 July includes performances by Emilee Lucia, contemporary choir Singergy, folk band Okee Dokee and Rock Choir. Children’s fancy dress is encouraged.

Sunday 16 July is Jazz, Swing and Blues day. The Sussex Band of the Royal British Legion (Horsham), Mr G and the Bluebeats, Angel Delights and The Hucksters are on the bill.

Take a nostalgic trip Back to the 80s on

You can follow Ben and Toby on Twitter @AAHMagazine and @tobyphillips1

Saturday 22 with The Jukebox 6, Northbrook MET (Young Performers) Band, Flying Low, plus Stephen Foster’s David Bowie tribute.

Rock Day completes the festival on Sunday 23 with great music from Quo-caine, Full House and Ichiro.

All four concerts are free to attend.

Gates open at 12:30pm and the music starts at 1pm, finishing at 5pm. Food and drink will be available from vendors or you are welcome to bring your own picnics and blankets.. www.horshamgardenmusicfestival.co.uk

ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK 26 - 27 August 2017

Handcross Park School, London Road, Handcross West, Sussex, RH17 6HF

The Horsham Artists Open Studios (HAOS) Art Trail is held on 8 - 9 July and 15 - 16 July. Enjoy the work of some of the best artists and makers in the area as they open their homes, studios, gardens and shared venues. Artists participating include Alex Ansell, Paul Baden, Iris Bishop, Denise Bliss, Angela Brittain, Esther Clark, Yvonne Clements, Brenda Finch, Jean Holder, Janine Creaye, Emily Kallend, Suzie Kidd, Jill Mills, Grahame Morgan-Watson, Claire Morris, Kezia Noel-Paton, Sharon Norman, Edith Pargh Barton, Lindsey Pearson, Carole Skinner, Bruce Ringrose, Lesley Taylor, Joanna Wenczka, Irma Westerdijk (pictured) and Jo Willis. www.horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk

NEWS: 15 PlumJam provided a great day out for visitors to Horsham on 28 May. The event saw dozens of classic Volkswagens descend on the town centre. It is hoped that the event, organised by Plum’s Campers in association with Horsham Time Well Spent, will be a major feature of the town’s 2018 events calendar.

There are many volunteer opportunities available in the Horsham District. The Horsham branch of Alzheimer's Society is seeking volunteers who could help with fundraising, whilst The Children’s Society’s charity shop in Southwater desperately needs volunteer shop assistants.

Southwater Parish Council would like to hear from volunteers for a range of roles, including the environmental group which needs helpers with minor works at Pond Farm Ghyll. West Sussex Libraries are searching for volunteers to help with the upcoming Summer Reading Challenge and West Sussex Young Carers are searching for safe and competent drivers who could use their own insured vehicles to transport young carers. For more volunteering opportunities contact Horsham and Mid Sussex Voluntary Action on 01444 258102 or visit www.hamsva.org.uk

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Jeremy Quin remains the MP for the Horsham constituency after the General Election. The Conservative candidate received 36,906 votes, ahead of candidates representing Labour (13,422), Liberal Democrats (7,644), Green (1,844), UKIP (1,533), Something New (355) and Peace Party (263). The overall turnout in the constituency was 75.03%.

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NEWS ROUND-UP

16: NEWS

America’s Got Talent winner Paul Zerdin performs at The Capitol on 15 October

CoCo’s Style at 4 Lintot Square, Southwater, has a hairdressing apprenticeship available. CoCo’s has three inspiring, contemporary salons in West Sussex and is also well-known for establishing the incredible CoCo’s

An American Car and Bike Show is scheduled to be held in Horsham on Sunday 24 September, from 10am – 4pm. It is hoped that Horsham Americarna competitions will be

Foundation, which carries out lifechanging projects in some of Africa’s poorest communities. For details about the apprenticeship, call 01403 738800 or visit the salon. www.cocos.co.uk

held in categories including classic cruisers, modern muscle, street rods and customs, dragsters and racers, and Harleys and hogs.

Alice Ella, a singer/songwriter from Horsham, will be releasing her second single, 24 Obsession, on 24 July. Alice made headlines when she performed a duet with Emile Sandi as part of a promotional campaign for the 2012 BRIT Awards. Since then, she’s continued writing and recording, singing the title song Motherless Child for a feature film starring John Cusack and Elijah Wood.

Alice has previously been featured in AAH and also modelled for the Wakefield’s Christmas catalogue in 2016. To hear Alice’s music and to pre-order the single, visit www.aliceella.co.uk Washington Village Day will be held on Saturday 8 July, from 12 - 5pm. As well as fun and food, beer and bouncy castles, enjoy go-karts, Punch and Judy shows, face painting, craft activities, fancy dress parade, a dog show, tug-of-war and local produce show. There will also be Victorian themed funfair rides and a beer specially brewed by Riverside Brewery, in honour to past pupil Mr Adsett, who fell at The Somme.

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Brighton Road Baptist Church has organised its popular Sports Week at Millais School on Wednesday 26 to Friday 28 July, from 10am - 3pm. Children can enjoy dodgeball, softball, basketball, Danish longball, handball and ultimate frisbee over three days, for £30 including a T-shirt, games-in-the-park night and fun awards ceremony. The week is for current school years 6-9. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.brbc-horsham.org.uk

NEWS: 17

The Horsham Twinning Association recently visited Lage, Horsham’s twin town in the north-west of Germany. The highlight of the trip was a rousing concert by Horsham’s Pleasure Singers and children from Kingslea Primary School and Ehrentrup Grundschule.

The Horsham party were welcomed by Lage mayor, Herr Christian Liebrecht and Moritz Freiherr von Eckartstein, chairman of Lage’s partnership association. A total of 28 children and 43 adults from Horsham made the trip.

Kingslea School pupils were also able to visit a

bird of prey centre, an open-air museum and talk to German children, while the adults enjoyed a visit to Dr Oetker’s cake mix factory and a boat trip along the River Weser. Horsham Twinning Association is a voluntary and self-funded association which arranges visits between Horsham and its twin towns, Lage in Germany and St. Maixent in France. The aim is to promote friendship and an understanding of each other’s cultures. For information about membership, contact James Prentice at jprent@btinternet.com

Summers Place Auctions hosted a garden party on 9 June prior to a Tribal Art and Travel auction. Joanna Hardy of the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow was the special guest speaker. The Billingshurst auctioneers have been leaders in the field of garden statuary and sculpture for a decade and with their first Evolution sale in 2013 also established themselves as leaders in Natural History. 2017 sees them start a new series of sales with a focus on tribal art and travel. As well as browsing the items being auctioned, guests enjoyed catering by Alimento, whilst Wakefield’s of Horsham showcased unique gemstone jewellery, as well as Rolex and Tudor watches. www.summersplaceauctions.com

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18: NEWS

To submit News/Events for consideration, email Ben: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

The popular summer event Sparks in the Park is returning to Horsham this year under a new name, Funday Sunday, on 9 July.

The event has been adopted by two local charities - the Horsham Festival in partnership with Horsham Rotary Club. The event will cover Horsham Park and the Carfax with some activities also held at The Capitol and Parkside. The event begins at 10.30am in the Carfax with the Rotary Charity Market and a variety of children’s entertainments, with music and fun on the Bandstand throughout the day. Activities in Horsham Park start at midday and include Benson’s funfair; Sports Zone with a mini golf course, touch rugby, tennis, soccer, kung fu, karate and tai chi, rounders and others; Community Stage Zone compered

by Radio 4’s Chris Aldridge featuring music, dance and drama; BBC Radio Sussex; Food & Drink Zone; Eco-Zone Safety Zone and a Business Zone. Image: Dominic Smith

The Par 3 Academy Course at Slinfold Golf & Country Club had its official opening on 27 May. The honour of the first official tee off on the new 9-hole course went to head greenkeeper Dan Saunders who, along with his greenkeeping team, has worked tirelessly towards opening the new facility.

The undulations and features of the Academy course tests golfers with a handicap whilst giving the novice golfer an introduction to playing prior to venturing on to the 18-hole course. The Academy course warmly welcomes visitors and guests. www.slinfoldclub.co.uk BSRA Charity Fun Day host a Superhero themed obstacle fun run at Jubilee Fields, Billingshurst, on Sunday 6 August, from 10:30am. Bootcamp business Up and Outdoor Fitness has designed a one mile obstacle course for participants in superhero fancy dress to run or walk around. The BSRA is also providing family fun with stalls, music, games, fun fair, dog show, BBQ and a bar.

Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds go to Macmillan and the Sussex and Surrey Search and Rescue. To book a place email superheroobstacledash@hotmail.com

NEWS ROUND-UP

20: NEWS

For details of the Shipley Arts Festival visit https://www.bmglive.com/shipley-arts-festival/

Victoria Eisermann has completed her wing walk to raise money for the K 9 Angels, the charity she co-founded. The Billingshurst campaigner flew at speeds up to 130mph to raise funds for the Angels’ Spay and Neuter

Campaign. Victoria said: "I was petrified, but I kept thinking about the dogs we can save." The K 9 Angels was founded in 2011 and has since re-homed over 800 dogs and spayed 3000 dogs. http://k-9angels.org

The Sandgate Singers host a summer concert, Song Cycle: Vive la Velorution! at Windlesham House School, Washington, on Saturday 22 July, from 6.30pm.

The Storrington-based community choir is linking up with children from local schools and the Call Me Al Jazz Quintet to perform a new piece by Alexander L' Estrange. They will also perform Too Hot to Samba and gospel melodies. Tickets cost £12, (children £6) from The

Card Shop, Storrington or 01903 741984. www.sandgatesingers.com

Horsham Harmony hosts an afternoon concert at St Leonard’s Church, Cambridge Road, Horsham, on Sunday 30 July, at 4pm. Join the group for its first concert and delicious homemade cake and refreshments, in aid of

Dementia UK. The concert is free with donations to charity.

Horsham Harmony is a daytime choir with a broad age range, encompassing both ends of the age spectrum. www.horshamharmony.co.uk

21

The streets of Horsham were a sea of orange and neon as more than 900 women, men and children stepped out under the stars as part of St Catherine's Hospice 10th anniversary Midnight Walk on 10 June, sponsored by Gatwick Airport.

Walkers were treated to goody bags, a warm-up by Alex Duffy, a musical performance from the Horsham Rock Choir, and rousing speeches before being sent out

to pound the pavements.

With glow sticks to help light their way, walkers enjoyed one of three new seven, 13 and 20 mile walking loops through the streets of Horsham, including stop-offs at The Holbrook Club for refreshments and St Mary's Church, where people lit a candle in memory of someone special.

After completing their walking challenge, people were welcomed back by cheering

hospice staff who congratulated them with a well-deserved medal and breakfast.

Hannah Shorter, events fundraiser at St Catherine’s, said: “What a way to celebrate our 10th Midnight Walk anniversary! With so many people coming out to support St Catherine's, we had an unforgettable night. There was a brilliant buzz from start to finish and we'd like to thank every single person who took part for

giving up sleep to step out under the stars.

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MY STORY: 25

MY STORY SO FAR...

Robert ARBUTHNOTT

Robert Arbuthnott enjoyed a diverse career with the British Council, experiencing Himalayan scenery in Nepal and being quizzed about British comedy’s obsession with the Nazis during a tricky interview on German radio

I

was born in Kuala Lumpur in the Federated Malay States, in 1936.

My father was severely wounded in The Great War, losing an arm.

His mother's family owned a chartered accountancy firm in Glasgow at which he qualified, so when the company opened a branch in Malaya, he was sent to lead it.

My mother wanted to be an actress but her parents didn't consider it a suitable occupation, so sent her to the colonies to find a husband. She met and married my father. The country’s growing plantation industry meant there was plenty of commercial auditing for my father’s firm.

One day in 1941, with the Japanese advancing towards Kuala Lumpur, I remember hearing my father, in his Army uniform, telling my mother to take the next day’s train to Singapore because it would probably be the last, which it was.

We stayed in the abandoned home of a family friend in Singapore while my mother tried to get us a passage out. On Christmas Day, we heard an air raid warning and hid under the stairs. After the bombs had fallen, we emerged to see that the house next door had disappeared.

Finally, the three of us squeezed into two seats aboard a flying boat to Australia, where we arrived as refugees. We lived in Sydney, where my mother gave elocution lessons, teaching girls how to speak proper English! There was a good deal of anti-British feeling as Australians, quite rightly, believed the British had let them down by allowing Singapore to be taken at a time when many Australians were fighting for the Allies. I was knocked about in the playground and had my nose broken. Yet we also experienced great kindness.

My father became a prisoner of war, working on the dreadful Burma-Siam Railway. Some 60,000 prisoners were used as slave labour alongside many civilians, and 15,000 died. We heard nothing from him for two years before a postcard arrived with a reference to Winnie the Pooh, which he loved to read to us. We knew then that he was still alive.

The Aussies offered us a free passage home in 1945. We sailed via New Zealand, where we picked up troops and lamb in huge quantities. We zig- zagged the Pacific, went through the Panama Canal and joined a convoy across the Atlantic. It was then the Germans surrendered and I recall seeing U-boats rising to the surface all around us to give themselves up.

When my father didn’t return after the Japanese surrender, we

feared the worst. Later, we learnt that he and six others had stayed behind to make sure that the abandoned and starving civilian labourers on the railway could also get home and this took time.

We were finally re-united.

When my father had recovered, my parents went back to Kuala Lumpur. My brother and I were sent to boarding school and during the holidays we would stay with relatives in Bournemouth, Northumberland or Scotland, in each of which we enjoyed a different lifestyle. My mother made the long journey to see us once a year, if she could. It was an unsettled childhood but with our generation, boys didn't cry and you got on with life. The post-war years were tough for everybody.

My first boarding school was near Redhill and then I went to Sedbergh School in Cumbria. This was a tough school with cold

26: MY STORY

Read more incredible stories on the My Life So Far section at http://www.aahorsham.co.uk/

baths and lots of cross country running. I did okay academically, earning a scholarship to Cambridge to read Modern Languages. But first, I had to do military service.

Robert and his brother lived in Malaysia and Australia before travelling to the UK ©Robert Arbuthnott

The head of the Arbuthnott family in Scotland served as a Major General during the war. He arranged for me to serve with his old regiment, The Black Watch. Military service was a great experience as I met people from all backgrounds. One chap stole my rifle to try and get me into trouble, but we became friends as I helped him write letters to his girlfriend, as he was illiterate. Many young soldiers were miners and I admired them for their resilience.

As I had A-levels, I could apply to become an officer, and luckily I was successful. I served in Perth and Berlin where the Allied powers, including Russia, had divided the city into four sectors. However, I never fired a shot in anger.

Robert (second left) parades with Black Watch, the Royal Regiment of Scotland ©Robert Arbuthnott

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I spoke fluent German and it was fascinating talking to people in the cafes and streets, particularly in the Russian Sector. Many Germans asked about my regimental uniform as I wore a kilt. The Berliners were beleaguered and knew the Russians could take over at any time. They were conscious of the Allies protecting them, so we were popular. When the regimental bands paraded, people flocked to listen.

I spent three years at Cambridge, learning about life and putting the world to rights! I enjoyed music and conducted the college orchestra, and also played a lot of sport.

Cambridge was a different institution then. Life was structured, disciplined and we were treated like slightly grown-up schoolboys. This was hard for those of us who had served in the military.

I expressed an interest in becoming a diplomat or teacher, so the Appointments Board said: ‘Why don't you try for the British Council?’

I discovered it was a combination of education and diplomacy, providing learning and cultural opportunities around the world. Working abroad greatly appealed to me.

My first posting was in Karachi. The British Council was providing English language training as well as recruiting British principals, professors and department heads at schools and universities across the country.

We also had exchanges, awarded scholarships and ran libraries.

The best thing that happened in Karachi was meeting Robina, my wife. She was staying with my boss who asked me to help entertain her.

After an unpromising start, we got engaged three weeks later. When I was on leave, we married in Horsham Parish Church with the reception at South Lodge, which was then owned by Robina’s cousins.

My next post was in Lahore, a vibrant, cultural city with a huge 16th century mosque. My job there was in finance and administration, working with the British Volunteer Programme (VSO) and servicing the people recruited as staff in schools and universities. We were happy, and our first child was born there.

On our first night in the house, the walls and ceilings were covered with mosquitoes. We had to jump and hit them with pillows! We were both shouting and laughing for ages. The neighbours must have wondered what was going on!

‘The flora and fauna of the area was stunning and Nepal was an unforgettable lifetime experience’ Pakistan was very different then; educated women didn’t walk about in veils. It was a friendly, welcoming place and we took to the people immediately. We played sport and enjoyed exploring the countryside.

We drove into India to visit Kashmir one summer and had to drive up perilous mountain roads, often squeezing past a military convoy travelling in the opposite direction.

It was scary as you could see wrecked cars far below over the precipice!

When we arrived at the pass into Kashmir, we looked down across an incredible valley with lakes, rivers and green vegetation. You can understand why Pakistan and India have fought over it, as it’s a magical place. We stayed on a houseboat and would swim in the blue lake and use water taxis to visit gardens and local markets. We’ve been back three times, but during our last trip there were serious bomb attacks. I

hope they will solve the political problem and bring peace here again.

In 1967, I was posted to Kathmandu in Nepal. We lived with our two children and labrador in an extraordinary house with views of the Himalayas on one side and a mediaeval city with golden pagodas on the other. Women wearing garlands and marigolds would walk along the ancient brick path past our house on their way to the main Hindu temple, and every morning a buffalo was milked for us by our back door.

Nepal was a desperately poor country full of remarkably friendly people.

One of the British projects for which I was responsible was the building of a big new school, aimed at bright but poor children from remote areas. It is still doing well. We had a team re-training every secondary English teacher in the country and a British Volunteer Programme. We also ran three libraries and people would walk for several days to change their books as there was such a hunger for learning.

We would go trekking in the hills and mountains when we could, but it was difficult as we were busy. One favourite spot was a lake at 14,000 feet where pilgrims would visit. The water was so cold that occasionally someone would die after taking a holy dip! Another memorable experience was climbing to 18,500 feet, above Everest Base Camp, and seeing the panorama of Everest and the mountains surrounding it.

Nepal was an experience of a lifetime.

A surprising number of official visitors arrived at weekends expecting to be looked after, so we took them on picnics in the Himalayan foot hills. Occasionally, the British Council provided us with an opportunity to host cultural events. A theatre company touring India agreed to visit Nepal and staged the country’s first professional theatre production. I acted as impresario, bouncer and box office manager to ensure it went ahead.

I visited the only theatre in Nepal and found there were no toilets or furniture.

Robina used our home curtains to create dressing rooms and our furniture became make-up tables! The embassy found two old portable toilets and we wired everything through one single plug socket!

After that, we had more visiting actors including Felicity Kendal’s parents (the ‘Shakespeare Wallahs’ of the film) and the famous West End actress Barbara Jefford and her husband. Both performed in our house, the latter doing love scenes from Shakespeare to an audience including the Crown Prince, prime minister and other notables.

Robert (far left) met HRH The Prince of Wales during the famous Royal tour of India in 1992 ©Robert Arbuthnott

ROBERT ARBUTHNOTT: 27

28: MY STORY ‘It wasn't a normal upbringing for our two daughters. But they wouldn't swap some of our experiences for the world’

After five years in Nepal, I was posted to Kuala Lumpur. The British government had given the Malaysians an aid package and they wanted it to be in education and to be managed by us, as we were already working with them on educational projects.

Amongst the many specialists we brought over, the most memorable was Lord Denning, one of the most famous British judges of the 20th century. He conducted seminars and made speeches all over the country and we hosted a dinner in his honour, attended by top judges and lawyers as well as the visiting British Lord Chancellor and our High Commissioner. Lord Denning kept everybody spellbound.

It was an exciting time for our children too as we would snorkel off the west coast and in the South China Sea. People talk about the coral in the West Indies, but it is nothing compared to Malaysia!

The Arbuthnotts spent five incredible years in Nepal ©Robert Arbuthnott

It wasn't a normal upbringing for our three children. The advantage was that they had many adventures and experienced different cultures,

whilst a disadvantage was that they weren't rooted in one place and had to leave friends behind. But some experiences they wouldn't swap for the world, like seeing the giant leather-backed turtles coming in from the sea at night to lay their eggs on the beaches.

Our next big move was to Germany, where the British Council’s role was different. In the 1980s, Germans had a poor opinion of Britain because of bad industrial relations, inefficient industry and football hooligans. It was important to persuade them that we were still a serious country.

Our contribution was to encourage university and other links and exchanges. We ran seminars about Britain today for senior German civil servants. We also brought over British authors (at their German publishers’ expense) including Tom Sharpe, Iris Murdoch, Angela Carter and Salman Rushdie to read their books and talk about them. I interviewed them in front of large audiences, sometimes covered by the media. We also loaned information packs about Britain to schools and brought over the Royal

ROBERT ARBUTHNOTT: 29 Shakespeare Company, as well as art and sculpture exhibitions, which are popular in Germany.

One difficult experience was being interviewed by a popular German radio programme, about British attitudes to the Germans. Why, I was asked, did we continue to make jokes about the Nazis in programmes like ‘Allo Allo’ so long after the war?

I was also on the jury for the Shakespeare Prize, awarded to someone who made a profound contribution to British culture.

During my time, we chose Alec Guinness and David Hockney. The former was very modest, pleasant and understated.

David Hockney was more upfront, wearing a back-to-front baseball cap and trainers to a posh evening party in Hamburg!

My last, longest (nearly six years) and best posting was to India, based in Delhi. It was the best, professionally, because I was in charge of our biggest overseas post with an enormous programme; and personally, because we had the opportunity to explore this vast and exciting country. We had a network of libraries which issued two and a half million books to 100,000 members and were hugely popular.

Robert married Robina at St Mary’s Church in H Horsham, before a reception at South Lodge

TOOVEY’S "Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful." – William Morris

One of the surgeons at Moorfields, who operated on my eyes, told me he would never have qualified as a doctor without the help of our Bombay library. In those days, Britain gave a lot of aid to India and we managed over 40 projects for the government in education, health, urban development and other fields which gave me a wonderful opportunity to travel to them, usually to inaugurate something or make a speech.

We experienced no ill-feeling about the British Raj of the past and many older people had good personal memories of that time. We experienced great kindness from the villagers who insisted on changing the car tyre when we punctured in a remote area, to the many Indians who became friends for life.

With hundreds of specialists and consultants visiting the country, we met many interesting people and sometimes entertained around them. I had capable and loyal Indian staff, too; the most capable I found anywhere. I met our Prime Minister as well as members of the Royal family during that time.

The most memorable visit was by Prince Charles and Princess Di when their marriage was breaking up. While she was photographed looking sadly at the Taj Mahal, he was visiting our new office building. I found him very professional

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30

18/10/2016 09:46 Page 1

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ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

20 200 2002 2 -2 20 201 2017

THE GOOD BEER GUIDE

Visit our traditional country pub and enjoy the finest ales, wines and spirits by our Inglenook fireplace or our beautiful garden.

Our extensive menu offers home-made food prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.

Pop in and enjoy some well deserved refreshment at the end of one of the many beautiful walks in the area.

THURSDAY THURSDA THURSD THURS THUR THU T O ON TH THURSDAYS NIGH NIG N NI Q QUIZ QU QUI NIGHT FREE FR FRE F FR FRE FREE HI HIG HIGH H SPE SPEE SPEED S SP W WI WIF WIFI CA MA CAS CASK M MAR MARQ MARQU MARQUE AW AWA AWAR AWARD A

2

Robert receives his CBE from the Queen. Austin Maestro just out of shot. ©Robert Arbuthnott

1

and charming and am sure he will be an excellent monarch. Robina accompanied Princess Di to a number of her social welfare visits, and thought she was wonderful too. What a pity they were not right for each other.

In 1991, I was fortunate to be awarded the CBE. I drove an Austin Maestro and parked in the forecourt of Buckingham palace, alongside an array of luxury cars!

It was a wonderful day and the Queen asked me where I’d been, before I picked up the subtle hints that it was time I moved on.

After retirement, we found our dream house in Shropshire. We became gardeners for seven years and were involved in the National Garden Scheme (NGS). I also became a trustee of the Leonard Cheshire Foundation for the disabled. Music has been a lifelong passion and I’ve conducted 15 choirs all over the world. I accompanied professional singers and musicians on occasion and was also on the committee of the English Haydn Festival in Bridgnorth.

Later, we moved to Maplehurst where we both had family history.

I was losing my sight and although doctors stopped the rot, I had to stop driving among other things.

So, we downsized and moved to Mannings Heath where I can get about on the bus, walk to the village shop or watch The Nutters play cricket on the village green. I also sing in the St Andrew’s Church choir at Nuthurst and am a member of the Horsham Arun Probus Club.

We still love to travel and among other places have visited Kanchanaburi in Thailand to see the Burma Railway, where my father worked as a POW. We met two men who were survivors, which was a humbling moment.

My working career was a wonderful experience and I cannot think of a job I could possibly have enjoyed more. I believe that the organisation I worked for made a real difference to our relations with other countries over many years and I would like to hope that I made a small contribution to this.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS/ ROBERT ARBUTHNOTT

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10:11

DANCE: 33

One to Watch...

Micheal KOPINSKI

So, who’s this then?

This is Michael Kopinksi, who teaches ballet masterclasses from a specially-built studio at his home in Maplehurst.

Tell me about Michael…

Michael grew up in Gdansk, Poland, where he was taught ballet from the age of eight. He showed a natural flair for dance, winning a national competition when he was 17. The Minister of Art and Culture awarded Michael the chance to compete at the Prix de Lausanne, an international ballet competition in Switzerland.

Michael seized the opportunity, reaching the final and earning a medal. This earned him a one year scholarship at the Royal Ballet School in London.

Like Billy Elliott?

Yes, like Billy Elliott. But Michael’s dad didn’t work down the mines.

Billy Elliott was a bit younger…

Michael only joined in the final year at the Royal Ballet School, a time when students are close to reaching a professional standard.

He adapted quickly and following his year in London was offered a full-time position with the Birmingham Royal Ballet, one of the three major ballet Companies in the UK (along with the English National Ballet and Royal Ballet.)

Quite a big deal then?

Absolutely. The Birmingham Royal Ballet was, for a time, the touring company of The Royal Ballet, becoming a separate entity in 1997. Whilst based at Birmingham Hippodrome, Michael performed

at other famous venues including Sadler's Wells during his seven years with the Company, in which time he progressed to a Soloist level. His repertoire included The Nutcracker, Carmina Burano, Romeo & Juliet and The Sleeping Beauty. He also performed in independent productions, including as Chevalier - in Adam Cooper’s Dangerous Liaisons in the West End. Is a Soloist level the pinnacle of ballet?

In a professional Company, there are different ranks of dancer. The Birmingham Royal Ballet, like The Royal Ballet, has six ranks. They have the Corps de Ballet, then First Artist, Soloist, First Soloist, Principal Character Artist and Principal. There are other ranks in other Companies around the

world; and you may have heard the term ‘prima ballerina’, the title given to the lead female dancer, for example.

You need to be good to become a Soloist then?

Particularly if you are a male dancer, as ballets tend to have fewer men. Most popular ballets, like Swan Lake, require more females in the Company. Sadly, having started in the Corps de Ballet and progressing up to be Soloist, Michael’s career was cut short by injury.

What happened?

Michael said: “When I was 25, I made the decision to quit as I suffered from stress fractures in my lower legs. It was a result of consistent pressure over many years of constant touring and my

34: DANCE body had reached a point where it couldn't sustain such force. I always had very strong leg muscles and that was a key asset, so when I didn't have 100% confidence, it restricted what I could do at the highest level.”

‘Teaching is a very creative process which I truly cherish’

So, Michael turned to teaching?

Not initially. He gained a degree in Interior Architecture at Brighton University as he needed a break from dancing. But his passion for ballet returned. Michael said: “Once I was outside that world of theatre and dance, I discovered how much I missed it. I intuitively went back to dance and the best way was through teaching. I still had great passion and wanted to pass some of my knowledge and experience on to others.”

Where did Michael start teaching?

He led ballet classes at Ardingly village hall, before he became a dance tutor at the Gielgud Academy of Performing Arts in Haywards Heath, a role he found richly rewarding. Now, he teaches students individually at his home.

His specialist studio includes bars,

mirrors and a professionally sprung floor, as used by The Royal Ballet School, to help prevent injuries.

Is there much demand for professional ballet teaching in these parts?

Michael said: “In West Sussex, there are many people that have danced professionally or worked in the theatre that now have children interested in ballet. Pupils require good teachers to develop strong technique, particularly in ballet, as it’s the base for many jazz and contemporary dance styles. I offer masterclasses on a one-to-one level. Several of my students attend the Royal Ballet School, Tring Park or the Central School of Ballet and I can also help people train for a specific event or audition.”

He’s not leading huge classes of beginners then?

Michael’s studio is not a place where children skip about and learn the basics. “I teach people who are serious about dance,” he said. “There are many dance and performing arts schools that do a

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MICHAEL KOPINSKI: 35 ‘Dancers are demonstrating new creative styles on social media, so it’s an exciting time for ballet’

good job of providing students with a basic level of dance, including ballet.

These dance schools may have gifted individuals and perhaps don't always have the time to focus on them to accelerate their development. A one-toone session can help these pupils reach a higher level and make the best of their ability. I aim to give my students the best chance of getting into a top college in London or to fulfil their dreams. Teaching is a very creative process which I truly cherish.”

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How old are Michael’s students?

His youngest student is only nine and yet is preparing for an audition at the Royal Ballet School. Michael also has students performing in West End productions but who wish to improve their ballet skills. As well as a meticulous approach to technique, one of Michael’s key strengths lies in artistic expression and identifying the creative strengths of an individual.

Anything for beginners?

Michael runs several popular classes for ladies of all abilities during the week.

These are held on Monday and Friday, with an evening class on Wednesday.

“We have a great amount of fun,” said Michael. “It’s not just ballet; it has elements of Pilates, meditation and yoga with some ballet added to the mix. It's a full body workout, which keeps everyone in good shape.”

Do more boys do ballet now? You know, like that Billy Elliott?

Ballet has been enjoying a resurgence, particularly for male dancers. Michael said: “Television shows like Strictly Come Dancing have helped to demonstrate that it’s okay for men to do dance. Male ballet dancers are extremely athletic and to reach a West End level requires a strong technique and commandment of your body. When you are required to lift

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36: DANCE

For details of a free contemporary dance event at The Capitol, see the News Round-Up Section

a ballerina throughout a three-hour production, it's not people who are weak and dainty that progress through the ranks.” Michael now teaches half a dozen boys each week on an individual basis, including two who are in professional theatrical productions.

Ballet is quite demanding then?

Ballet is very good for flexibility and strengthening, so footballers, rugby players and even military personnel are turning to it.

Ballet as an artistic style is also undergoing a transformation.

‘It's not people who are weak and dainty that progress’

In what way?

Social media and online video channels are demonstrating new creative styles and inspiring people around the world. Michael said: “Companies like The Royal Ballet continue to push ballet to new heights as they have choreographers that are experimental and willing to embrace modern dance. They are doing things with classical dances that haven’t been seen before, so ballet is evolving. Dancers are also demonstrating new creative styles

on social media, so it’s an exciting time for the dance world.”

What’s next for Michael?

He hopes to be able to collaborate with other singers and dancers to produce a talent showcase in the future. But for now, he’s happy to continue teaching at his beautiful studio in the countryside. “Teaching my Ballet Power Classes is enormous fun, and seeing my young dancers progress is very rewarding. Dance is my passion and I’m just thrilled that I can still be a part of the creative process.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

For details of private ballet masterclasses or group classes, visit www.balletpower.com or www.michaelkopinski.com

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t was a burgeoning local music scene that led to the foundation of the Horsham and District Live Music Alliance (HDLMA) in 1999.

The HDLMA would launch the popular Battle of the Bands competition that same year, an event that remains an annual highlight almost 20 years later.

With so many bands across all musical genres, the late HDLMA co-founder Graham Ansell approached Horsham District Council to help them find a central location that could be used by bands to rehearse.

Graham’s widow Mandy Ansell, who continues to run QM Studios with the help of a small but devoted

committee, recalls: “Graham was heavily involved in local music as a sound engineer and our son was in a band, so he wanted a place for musicians to practice.

“There was a studio in Cowfold that bands used but people wanted somewhere in Horsham. So, Graham and other HDLMA members met Trevor Beadle, Community and Culture officer at the council, who offered to help.

“Trevor identified the former Quartermaster’s store behind the Drill Hall on Denne Road as a location,” said Mandy.

“That gave the studio its name. Everybody involved had the drive to make it happen.”

Plug in and Play

At that time, the HDLMA would attract dozens of bands to compete in the Battle of the Bands. Heats were required before the final was held in front of a huge audience at The Drill Hall or Carfax Bandstand.

The rehearsal space in Horsham proved popular too.

Rooms were kitted out with amps for guitars and bass, microphones, drum kits and a PA system, as QM Studios adopted a ‘plug in and play’ approach. This drew in rock and metal bands in particular and was pivotal in driving the HDLMA’s efforts to create a local music community.

QM STUDIOS: 39 ‘A long-term aim is to initiate an educational-based Academy’ “They are not therapy sessions, bute there is a therapeutic side to music as it boosts confidence and self-esteem.

“The bands that rehearse here in the evening contribute a little additional income for QM Studios to help us fulfill social responsibilities and reach more people.

“So gradually, the role of QM

Studios has become more diverse and there’s now much more of a community focus. It’s also now an approved exam centre for Rock School. We’re increasingly finding that the good work carried out at the Studios us having a knock-on effect, with people developing musical interests and organising their own community events.”

Boom-Bastic The studios have a Mac-based 16-track digital recording system, with professional Logic software. A vocal booth has also been built, opening-up the option of bands and community groups not just rehearsing, but recording music.

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Yet whilst the rehearsal rooms were booked out most evenings, the facility was rarely utilised during the day. The council looked at ways it could change this.

Nick Jenkins, Community Development Officer for the Arts at HDC, said: “In recent years, there has been a shift in the support the council provides.

“Certainly the focus is moving towards health and well-being through hosting workshops and supporting different groups across the community.

“We’re working with day centres, community projects such as the Reaching Higher project, and groups helping people with learning disabilities to provide more opportunities to play music and even learn about sound engineering and recording.

Our team of chefs have created an enticing and delicious menu with many dishes to suit all tastes along with daily specials.

We also hold regular events include live acoustic music and quiz nights.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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40: MUSIC Adam Gellibrand and Mandy Ansell

‘Performing music is therapeutic; it is like a medicine’

Adam Gellibrand, who along with Kay Whiteley is a key part of community music projects and is director of the popular samba band, Boom Tribe, said: “With this new community focus, we have already reached out to local schools, including Forest and Farlington, as well as colleges, day centres and community groups.

“These include the Strawford Centre, which cares for adults with learning disabilities, The Richmond Fellowship, Springboard Project, Blue Oasis and Outreach 3 Way in Crawley.

“We host percussion sessions too, with groups including Reaching Higher, through our links with the council.

“When Outreach 3 Way visited, the group learnt the words to Three Little Birds by Bob Marley.

Several of our young volunteers joined us to create a community band and we recorded the song in the QM vocal booth.

“We’ve now produced a CD of the recording, so those involved can take a copy away, which is special for them.

“A long-term aim is to initiate an educational-based Academy, offering courses in sound engineering and production as an addition to what we already offer. It would be fantastic to expand on our current work if circumstances allow it in future.”

Krystal Gob One musician to have benefited from the community-focused projects at QM Studios is Dominic McMahon, aka Krystal Gob. In 2009, he reached the final of a national beat boxing competition. Now aged 29, music is still a big part of Dominic’s life and QM Studios has given him the opportunity to record in a professional vocal booth.

“When I started out, beat boxing was huge,” says Dominic.

“There are beat boxers on YouTube with a big following, but it needs something new to bring it into the mainstream.

“I draw from a lot of different

QM STUDIOS: 41

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Adam Cresswell recorded a jazz CD at QM Studios sources and my influences are quite eclectic. I want to convey a message, covering political or religious subjects, so it's not just about beat boxing.

“I was thinking about packing it in as I was losing confidence, but people told me I should carry on, because music is my passion.

Performing music is therapeutic; it is like a medicine. It helps you to channel energy into something positive. Now I have the confidence to perform.

“I have been coming to QM Studios for a few years. I visit every week and help at the workshops they organise for people with disabilities. I like just to help them do what they love doing. It’s is a big part of my life now.

Jazz Recording Photos of some of the best known local acts, including Battle of the Bands winners Everafta and Blue Stragglers, line the walls of the studios whilst some groups,

including Psycho Babble, have been regulars since its early days.

It’s not just rock bands that use the studios either. QM has graced everything from a gospel choir to death metal rockers, whilst David Essex recently rehearsed there before a national tour.

The addition of the vocal booth and recording equipment also presents new opportunities for QM. One of the musicians to have recorded there is clarinet player Alan Cresswell, who performs live with numerous bands including Muskrat Ramblers, the Golden Eagle Jazz Band and Burt Butler’s Jazz Pilgrims.

Alan said: “Jazz has always been around but the audiences are getting older and so are the band members. I’m not sure where the future of jazz lies.

“Still, I play with several bands at a lot of weekend festivals and jazz clubs and they are often sold out.

I occasionally play West Chiltington Jazz Club too, which is doing well.

“Recently, I recorded a double CD at QM Studios with some musician

Therefore seek advice. Yes, it may cost you a small fee to have someone research the market on your behalf and make recommendations, having assessed your short to long term needs and requirements. However, the broker will stand by their recommendation and, more importantly, it could save you thousands in the long run, versus choosing the wrong products yourself, usually from a single provider.

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42: MUSIC

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QM Studios may establish an Academy in the future

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friends, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

“The first CD features four musicians, including Johnny McCallum, who played with Chris Barber’s Band for many years. The second CD is built around the sounds of jazz pianist Keith Nichols.

“The record sounds fantastic. Not many people use QM for recording, but it’s very good. We have already sold over 300 copies, raising over £2000, and we hope we can sell 500

by Christmas.”

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The next step for QM Studios depends on it being granted the charitable status that it has applied for.

Nick said: “As much of our work is charitable in nature, we thought we should make it official as being an official charity might open up new revenues of funding.”

If successful, it would mean that events like Battle of the Bands (currently organised by a subcommittee of the HDLMA) continues independently as QM Studios pursues its charitable objectives.

Mandy said: “Supporting BOTB is something we always did as it was a key reason for the forming of the HDLMA. In recent years, the event has been taken on by a younger group of local musicians and has become part of the Horsham Garden Music Festival.

“They’ve worked hard and created something different, which the event really needed. We have supported them and that is not going to change but if we do obtain charitable status, it might be that we can’t support it financially and that BOTB will need to identify other funding streams.

“Our objectives have changed over the years and now we’re focusing on different things that are needed in the community.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

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COMMUNITY: 45

INSTRUMENTAL WORK Charity Music For All Inspires Everyone to Play

M

Paul McManus and Alice Monk from MIA/Music For All with Adam Gellibrand and Mandy Ansell at QM Studios

usic for All is a Horshambased charity linked to some of the biggest names in the musical instrument industry.

Run by volunteers, the charity has a simple mission of making more musicians and encourages this through community projects and individual donations.

Paul McManus, Chief Executive of Music for All, talks about the charity whilst donating two keyboards to QM Studios in Horsham.

Music for All was formed in 1996 by a small team of people working in the music instrument industry. There are millions of people out there who would like to make music but for many reasons, their opportunities are limited. So, the charity was created to promote the benefits of music and to increase music participation.

Music for All is affiliated with the Music Industries Association (MIA).

The MIA represents companies including Yamaha, Roland, Marshall and Fender, as well music shops, including Anderton’s Music Co in Guildford. Music for All is the charitable side of the MIA, run by a Board of Trustees and a team of volunteers.

Both the MIA and Music for All are based in Barttelot Road, Horsham.

The Association is normally situated close to where the Chief Executive lives and I happen to reside in the area. However, the work that we do is nationwide. We’ve provided all sorts of instruments for individuals, schools, groups and community projects, including violins, saxophones, pianos, guitars, keyboards and even a harp!

Our work is supported in several ways.

Primarily, companies such as Yamaha or Fender will supply instruments for Music for All to pass on to worthy causes. Also, members of the public donate instruments that they no longer need, as is the case with the two keyboards given to QM Studios.

Occasionally, we’re left instruments in someone’s will.

Others raise money through fundraising events. We can then buy new instruments for the right projects or for the individuals most in need.

Everyone involved in the MIA believes in music and knows that it changes lives. People in

the music industry are very supportive and they want to help others experience and enjoy music as well. The manufacturers are extremely supportive because our work is not preventing a sale; people we help wouldn’t otherwise be playing music, so what we’re

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Some of the charity’s work is offering music lessons when people can’t afford them. We also give grants to community or school music projects. Too many people are not learning

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46: COMMUNITY

Music for All recently donated two keyboards to QM Studios in Horsham

music in school these days. So, we do our best to support teachers.

We recently sent 19 guitars to a school in Birmingham which was about to stop guitar tuition.

We've donated sound beam devices to help people with disabilities translate movement into sound and music. Another community project was setting up a ukulele group for pensioners in Cumbria. Locally, we support QM Studios, donating keyboards for its community and educational work.

We also help out individuals in certain circumstances. A homeless man wrote to us after he’d sold his collection of musical instruments as he needed money for food. We donated a guitar to get him playing again as he was upset about not being able to enjoy music. We’ve also collaborated with other music charities to fund a harp for a very talented schoolgirl. Some of our work is nurturing talent, some is giving people a start and of course we have community projects.

People can complete an application form online and we can either buy

an instrument or provide them with lessons. Applicants are means tested, otherwise anyone would try and get themselves a free guitar!

Music for All also organises the national Learn to Play day, which promotes the benefits of music making. Learn to Play day is a fantastic initiative, with 100 venues across the country offering free taster lessons. Horsham Piano Centre has been a great supporter and hosted an event last year, and we’re always interested to hear from others that may be able to help our work in a similar way.

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

For more details about Music for All, call 01403 800500, email paulmc@mia.org.uk or visit www.musicforall.org.uk There’s also a ‘Music for all charity’ page on Facebook

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ART: 49

Artist Focus

Joanna WENCZKA

Animated Inspiration After completing my A’ levels, I went to a careers fair with the intention of studying product design at University.

But after looking into it, the idea of spending three years designing a toilet brush didn't appeal!

A Southampton University stand was promoting a degree in animation and that really excited me. I loved cartoons as a child and the prospect of a career in animation appealed to me.

The animation course involved sketching hundreds of pictures every day and this required discipline. But I enjoyed it, particularly the story boarding process. It was interesting to learn about various styles of animation and it gave me great admiration for cartoonists, particularly Pixar films, which are incredible detailed.

An Emotional Year My final year at University was tough.

My dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer, so I had to try and balance my home life with education.

He encouraged me to commit to my university course and I’d come home as often as possible to care for him and make as many memories as I could.

I completed an animated film for my final project. There was then a special screening of all the students’ work at a cinema in Southampton.

My film was about three minutes long, which equated to 2,000 individual drawings spliced together. It was about a date in a restaurant that goes disastrously wrong and the central character ends up with somebody else in the restaurant.

Each character was based on a different suit in a deck of cards. The main character was Jack and the girl he ends up with is heart-shaped, whilst the shallow, materialistic woman he first meets is the diamond.

My dad went to a chemotherapy session at hospital in his suit and immediately travelled to Southampton for the screening. That made working for 42-hours non-stop to finish the project worthwhile for me!

Sleeping with the Fishes Whilst at university, a lecturer offered several students some extra work. We were adding colour to drawings after the line work had already been created, for a project ambiguously titled ‘fish.’

Sleeping with the Fishes later won the

JOANNA WENCZKA: 51

nice gift and I enjoy doing them. A portrait is such a personal thing, so it's a great feeling when you get it right and you’ve captured the true character of the subject.

Some artists are very precise, almost to the point of a drawing looking like a photo. But I like things to look like a painting or drawing.

The key is to capture the essence of an individual’s character, which stems from my experience in animation. Other parts of the picture can be incorrect or abstract, but when you capture the glint in the eye or the smile of the subject, you know that the whole picture is going to be okay. It’s also important to know when it’s time to stop.

Sometimes, I think artists can do too much and can spoil a portrait.

People are surprised how affordable portraits are. They don’t always cost that much and they make for a lovely gift.

From Senna to Bowie Last year, I contributed a painting of a barn owl for an exhibition called Flock, which was held at Roffey Park. The venue has recently offered me the opportunity to host an exhibition of my own, so I hope to paint more pieces with a ‘movement’ theme.

I love painting animals, particularly sea creatures, and water is a theme which runs through much of my artistic output.

However, I do have quite a diverse range of work. I’ve tried everything from a water colour portrait of Senna and his Lotus to a charcoal study of David Bowie, to pencil drawings of Harry Potter and my movement paintings in oils and acrylics.

I recently drew a ship that was once stranded in the Suez Canal. A client

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Joanna particularly enjoys painting and drawing animals

approached me with the idea as his father had been on the ship. I don't limit myself as an artist and like to work in several mediums and on a wide range of subjects.

My aim at this moment is simply to get more of my art out there to build my reputation and hopefully I will reach the point where I can forge a career as a full-time artist.

HAOS Art Trail I'm involved with the HAOS Art Trail this July, which I'm very excited about. I am joining up with two other artists, Irma and Andre Westerdijk, so I hope that by having a sculptor, painter and upcycling artist in one location, we will attract quite a few members of the public.

As well as selling my art, I produce prints and greetings cards, as some people only have a small amount to spend.

Art needs to be accessible and one of the key aims is to cater for everyone. If you’re producing work that nobody can enjoy because it's too expensive, then what's the point?

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS/ JOANNA WENCZKA

For more information, visit Joanna Wenczka’s Art page on Facebook or Instagram or visit her website at http://www.joannawenczka.com

FOOD & DRINK: 55

Social Revolution Can WeFiFo Bring People Together Through Food?

I

n 2016, Seni Glaister and Jon Stefani took a break from successful careers in publishing to launch a social eating revolution.

Described by The Guardian as a ‘real life Come Dine with Me’ and

by The Daily Telegraph as ‘Airbnb for restaurants’, WeFiFo mission is to encourage home cooking and greater community interaction.

AAH attended a WeFiFo event at the couple’s idyllic home on the outskirts of Horsham, held to demonstrate just one of the ways that its events can bring together people with a shared passion.

After sampling barbecued chicken cooked Argentinian style and a slice of sumptuous Neapolitan inspired pizza, we sat down with WeFiFo founder Seni to find out more about the business and how it has quickly attracted national and global interest.

What is WeFiFo? “WeFiFo is short for We Find Food. from the outset, we had ambitions to be global and wanted a name that would travel well and allow us to be playful with marketing. WeFiFo is a platform for amateur cooks, professional chefs, supper clubs and pop-up restaurants to connect with an audience. That may be people who wish to meet and feed their neighbours, or professional chefs looking to do something other than working in a restaurant.

What inspired the idea?

I travel extensively with my family and all around the world we have been invited into people’s homes to eat. It is the most wonderful way of getting to know the people and culture. However, we are not so good at doing that here. In Italy, you will regularly see communal tables with four generations of a family eating together. It’s incredibly healthy, in terms of physical and mental health. Then you come back to the UK and everybody retreats!

Michael Hanson of The Hearth Pizzeria pulls another pizza from the woodfired oven

56: FOOD & DRINK Are we more reclusive?

There are many people living and eating in isolation and we’re trying to do something about that. It is not just the elderly; there is an epidemic of loneliness amongst people aged 18 to 24. Because of technology, people can order food online and it arrives at the door. They eat alone without connecting with anyone.

Our mission is to have people sharing communal tables and talking, as food is a great way to break down barriers. I know it’s a cliché, but your neighbours are merely strangers that you have not met yet.

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perhaps make a little money and make new friends.

There are also opportunities for professional chefs?

Most chefs work crazy hours that don’t allow for any kind of social life.

WeFiFo can offer something different for chefs who may not have the inclination or desire to open their own restaurant, but have the skills.

We offer a great platform for them to connect with an audience.

How does it work in terms of pricing?

We have a structure in place. Every person hosting a WeFiFo meal enters as a ‘Novice’ and after a certain amount of meals, depending on reviews, they can be promoted to ‘Home Cook’ and eventually ‘Home Chef.’ All our events are listed on the website along with a location and the price for the meal. If the event is run by a Novice, guests set their expectations realistically. We

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Jon Stefani Chef/Co-Owner

S

“Seni and I worked in publishing and a healthy slice of our work was centre on food. This has given us the opportunity to work with and become good friends with leading chefs. It was a risk for us both to commit to WeFiFo, but we have great belief in this idea.

There is an epidemic of loneliness and isolation in this country and we can fix this if we feed our neighbours!

WeFiFo events don’t necessarily need to be fancy; there has been events hosted on beaches, in parks and even on a barge! As well as meals hosted by amateur cooks, some involve supper clubs or professional chefs. One up-

coming event in Horsham features 2010 Masterchef winner Dhruv Baker, as well as local brewery Dark Star. However, if someone just wants to cook a good chilli con carne for a few pounds per head, then we have tha option.

So many people do things like bake cakes for the office and are secretly desperate to feed more mouths out of a ‘love to cook.’

Those are the people we’d love to involve and in WeFiFo The business is still growing. I won't pretend that you can visit our website and find hundreds of events near you, but I hope that we'll reach that point as I believe this concept works.”

WeFiFo: 57 ‘There are too many people living and eating in isolation and we’re trying to do something about that’ have already seen people progress from Novice to Home Chef, which has given them a huge amount of confidence and self-esteem. We also have a ‘Professional’ level for events run top chefs. Already, we’ve seen acclaimed chefs and several Masterchef winners working with us as they’re excited by the concept.

These events cost more but the food is always worth it. We’ve been quite surprised by how quickly word has spread and we now have a global reach, with events popping up all over the world.

Do guests review the meal?

There is a review process, but we encourage people to provide positive feedback, particularly with meals hosted by amateur cooks who may only be charging a small amount. Our hosts are all trying to build a reputation, so constructive criticism is welcome. There is a negativity about TV shows like Come Dine with Me, with people downgraded for what they didn’t do.

We didn’t want to replicate that formula as our network is much more supportive and in fact our most evangelical hosts help mentor new amateur cooks.

Can anyone get involved?

Yes; WeFiFo is very much a websitedriven business and people can view events and book online. Naturally, there are trust issues as our hosts are opening their home to strangers. So every host can accept or decline a guest. They can view their profile to make sure that they are comfortable inviting them into their home and the guest is not supplied with a final address until they’ve been accepted.

The host is always in control. With some events, like the event we’re hosting today, young families are encouraged. Taking children out to

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Our in house kitchen provides fresh home cooked food and snacks catering for a variety of requirements. Mature pretty gardens surround the home for residents and families to enjoy.

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58: FOOD & DRINK ‘We provide insurance, food preparation training, guidance on gaining a food hygiene rating’ eat can be difficult because the cost can restrict your choices. You might want to dine out together but don't necessarily want to find the cheapest restaurant. We encourage families at WeFiFo and some hosts even offer free food to children attending with adults.

wide network of cooks and chefs.

Another key advantage is that we provide one place for everyone to find the events they would like to attend. Another reason why people might come to us, and one that is harder to quantify, is that people feel they are part of a great social revolution.

Could people not just organise such events themselves?

There are some advantages to working with WeFiFo. We provide insurance, food preparation training, guidance on gaining a food hygiene rating and our mentors offer all kinds of advice, so there are pillars of reassurance.

People who are nervous about organising a meal can join our community and benefit from a

What is the aim of today’s event?

We are hosting this event to showcase what we can do and ultimately, we are practicing what we preach! We don't base out business solely around people who have large courtyards for entertaining. However, this does provide us with the space to invite several chefs and to demonstrate the principles of the

Award Winning Rural Dining Pub

Michael Hanson The Hearth Pizzeria

Home Grown Local Produce Lovingly Prepared Daily Countryman Lane, Shipley, RH13 8PZ

01403 741383 countrymaninn@btinternet.com

Book Online www.countrymanshipley.co.uk

“The Hearth is based in Lewes, but I also have a mobile pizzerias that allows me to attend various events, including the Brighton Festival. I also run a Community Interest Company called Bread for Life, which was established in 2016. We grow our own grain in the South Downs and it’s popular with restaurants, particularly in London. We donate a percentage of the profits to help those living on the bread line around the world. We’ve contributed to Hand in Hand for Syria, refugee community kitchens in London and Calais, and local projects, including SoupAid in Lewes. We’ve been lucky enough to have had our efforts recognised with awards and recommendations in several books, the BBC Good Food Magazine and Sunday Times Dish Magazine.

This WeFiFo event is something different for me. It’s fantastic to see people trying new ideas. Whilst this is only my first event with them, it seems a good way for people to enjoy food in a sociable way.

WeFiFo: 59 Mike Keen Chef

“I’m involved in various food projects including food schools and I oversee the menu at the Cult Café on Ipswich’s Waterfront.

This is my first WeFiFo event.

When I met Jon Stefani, he was looking for a fourth cooking element for this event, and when I told him about my set-up he insisted that I join in!

It's a very interesting idea and it's creating something new in the food market.

My set-up is also a little unusual.

People have traditionally tended to have a hog roast at weddings or functions, but are now being more adventurous and looking at alternatives. I built an Argentinian style cross for cooking meat over a fire pit. I can hang chickens on it, or alternatively cook a whole lamb.

It’s striking from a visual perspective and provides a novelty factor at an event. Also, the meat is delicious!”

Restaurant | Take Outs

| Deliveries | Catering

business.

Which chefs have you invited to cook here today?

Michael Hanson is here from The Hearth, which is my favourite pizza restaurant in the south and perhaps in the UK. Mike uses locally-grown heritage flour that allows him to create a lovely Neapolitan sourdough.

He uses some of the profits to support charities helping people living on the breadline, so we are very proud to be associated with him. We also welcome Michael Keen, who is cooking a whole lamb on an Argentinian ‘Asado’ cross over a fire pit. Other food features include a charcoal rotisserie with barbecue chicken cooked four ways and a hut for S'mores and dipping chocolate!

INTERVIEWS: BEN MORRIS

For details about upcoming events and meals, including July’s Horsham event with chef Dhruv Baker, visit the WeFiFo website at www.wefifo.com

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How can a Cranfold Physio help

my tennis elbow?

By Wendyanne Harrison (MCSP)

New Sports Therapy Department

Owner, Cranfold Physical Therapy Centre

A

t this time of year we are all more active in the home and garden, and we tend to see more shoulder and arm injuries in Cranfold.

If you have a problem that you want a quick physio opinion on, you don’t have to wait to see your doctor; you can book directly on our website or simply phone us to have a private appointment (selfpay or insurance is fine) within 48 hours.

Today we’ll talk about how to deal with your Tennis Elbow - before Wimbledon starts!

Tennis elbow is pain on the outside of your elbow, where your forearm muscles attach to your bone. It hurts when you press it, or when you grip your hand. It’s most common in middle age, and is an overuse injury. It can indeed be caused by a poor tennis racquet grip, but in many of us it’s more usually caused by computing, doing lots of pruning in the garden or using a screwdriver. Flat pack furniture assemblers – beware!

Treatment for tennis elbow Rest. The most important part of your treatment is to rest your injured tendon by stopping or changing the activity that is causing your pain. In mild cases this should resolve the problem.

Ice reduces inflammation and swelling, bringing fresh blood to heal the tendon.

Rub a wet ice cube over the sore area every two hours until the skin is numb and pinky-red in colour.

Stretches lengthen the tight muscles and

The most important part of your treatment is to rest your injured tendon’ ease pressure on the tendon.

Taping, or a brace around your forearm can help dissipate the strain through the tendon, reducing pain and allowing healing to start.

Medication like paracetamol or ibuprofen (where allowed) can be helpful to relieve pain and inflammation. Ibuprofen is also available as a gel which works well in tennis elbow as the tendon is very close to the skin surface. You should either use gel or tablets – not both together.

Physiotherapy or Sports Therapy will help to treat your tennis elbow and may include specific exercises, deep tissue massage, neck treatment, ultrasound or acupuncture. You may be given advice about your posture and ways to change an activity that may be affecting your symptoms. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy or a steroid joint injection may be required in long standing cases.

With good management you should be back to your match fitness again in next to no time – watch out Rafa!

Our Horsham practice in Foundry Lane is 2 years’ old already! We are continuing to grow the therapy team and have recently recruited two new therapists.

Matt Flynn is a Graduate Sports Therapist (and gym bunny) from Hertfordshire University. He joins Cranfold having worked for the last few years with academy and first team football and rugby teams in both the UK and Australia. Matt is looking forward to continuing to see sports injuries of all types, and expanding his experience with other soft tissue problems. He will be taking some of our PhysioFit and Pilates classes this autumn.

Danielle Rogers is a local girl and experienced Sports Massage Therapist. Danielle qualified as a personal trainer and Sports Masseur over 10 years ago, and has been continuing to develop her manual therapy skills since then.

Her Sports Massage is now legendary! As a keen triathlete, Danielle has a good understanding of the stresses and strains involved with running, cycling and swimming, in particular.

We offer therapies including...

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

Visit Our Horsham Practice on Foundry Lane

www.cranfoldphysio.co.uk | 01403 721050

62: BUSINESS

18/10/2016 09:46 Page 1

Interested in advertising in AAH? Email advertising@aahorsham.co.uk for an Information Pack

ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

1

FOOD BOOST

AT AWARD-WINNING

JACK’S Matthew Hart is Executive Head Chef at Alimento Event Catering

PLANT NURSERY

A

t the tender age of 14, enthusiastic gardener Jack Dunckley made national headlines when his design was selected for the RHS Malvern Spring Show.

The event would act as a springboard for the confident, ambitious teenager.

Over the next few years, Jack notched up more column inches as his landscape designs won a string of coveted awards at RHS Hampton Court Palace and RHS Chelsea flower shows.

‘When we were approached by Jack Dunckley, we felt it was an ideal opportunity to showcase our food’ Matthew Hart, Alimento Event Catering

A decade on from his flower show debut, Jack Dunckley has established a reputation as one of the south of England’s most innovative designers.

Still only 24, he now runs his own plant nursery on Kidders Lane, Henfield.

This summer - at around the time Jack was picking up another RHS Chelsea award for a striking design inspired by the Bermuda Triangle - visitors to the plant nursery were enjoying a delightful new eating area.

Alimento Kitchen @ Jack Dunckley is the latest addition to the nursery,” said Jack.

“We‘re very excited to be working with Alimento Event Catering, as they’re professional in their approach, seeking out good local produce, and they make excellent home-made food. “They have a friendly, bespoke approach to their business, which ties in nicely with our ethos. We hope it will help to attract more visitors to the nursery, as it’s a lovely, quiet

and easily accessible place to meet.

“The idea is that the two businesses complement each other, so people visiting the nursery can enjoy good food and drink, and perhaps occasionally we might pick up design projects too.”

Alimento Kitchen Alimento Event Catering is a family-run firm that has carved out a sterling reputation in the catering and hospitality industry.

Matthew Hart, Alimento Executive Head Chef, specialised in patisserie and confectionary under the tutelage of Terry Pugh, before developing his cooking skills in restaurants and as a chef at a private healthcare development.

After working at Raymond Blanc’s 2 Star Michelin restaurant in Oxfordshire, Matthew moved into event catering, establishing Alimento in 2013.

“We have previously focused on event catering, but when we were approached by Jack Dunckley, we felt it was an ideal opportunity to showcase what we do,” says Matthew.

“There is a beautiful marquee and it has a relaxing atmosphere, with raised planters and a reclaimed pallet wall.

“Co Ordination Catering Hire provided us with a fantastic interior with soft seating. The outside terrace is a perfect setting during the summer months too.”

2

10:11

JACK DUNCKLEY’S: 63

Jack Dunckley entered his first gardening competition at the age of 14

Quality Produce Alimento @ Jack Dunckley offers seasonal local produce, hand-crafted cakes, pastries, breakfast and lunches.

Options include smoked salmon and eggs (£4.50), the gardeners bap with back bacon, butcher’s pork sausage and fried egg (£4.50) and beans on toast (£2.75). Freshly made sandwich fillings include coronation chicken, roast beef and horseradish, mixed cheese and spring onion, and salmon and cream cheese (all £3.75).

“I believe that customers appreciate the warm and friendly service of a family-run business,” says Matthew.

“Also, visitors can see that the food here is of a very high quality. Already, we’ve established partnerships with several excellent local suppliers including New Street Butchers, Horsham Coffee Roaster, Chalk Hills Bakery, The

Sussex Ice Cream Company and Wobblegate juices.

“We remain committed to the catering and hospitality side of the business, be it weddings, fine dining or corporate events. Now we’re also keen to attract people to Jack Dunckley’s Plant Nursery.”

Growing Quickly Jack Dunckley was only 17 when, along with his father, he bought Birchfield Nursery near Henfield.

Birchfield was renowned as a wholesale nursery, specifically growing plants for garden centres or landscape gardeners.

Jack, who lived in Albourne at the time, would buy plants for his show gardens from Birchwood, so seized the opportunity when the site was placed on the market.

Whilst the Polytunnels were in good condition, there was much work to be done to tidy

up the nursery beds, improve irrigation and provide better access and parking.

Jack had an established client base to build on. However, over the years, the nursery has gone in a different direction.

“We introduced many perennial specimens and different varieties of fruit tree.

Whereas Birchfield might grow a thousand varieties of one plant or shrub, we prefer to grow 20 of 50 different types of plant. There is more variety now and wider options for all gardeners.

General Manager Paul Slawson agrees that the added variety has a wider appeal to the public.

“We’re not specialists in the exotic, although there are certainly quirky elements to Jack Dunckley’s. Our plant nursery has everything that an enthusiastic gardener would hope and expect to find, from small plants to feature trees. If people are looking for

‘Our plant nursery has everything an enthusiastic gardener would hope and expect to find, from small plants to feature trees’

64: BUSINESS something more specialist, then we can always find it for them, as there’s a lot of knowledge between the staff here.

“We’re building a reputation now as more of a destination, thanks to the coffee shop, and not just a seller of plants.”

Jack’s Designs

Jack Dunckley’s Plant Nursery in Henfield

Jack’s landscaping design business is also based in a unit at the nursery. This facet of the business continues to be successful, thanks to Jack’s award-winning gardens at world-renowned shows.

It all started with ‘Ornamental Hurst’ which was inspired by the village of Hurstpierpoint and the College that Jack attended at the time. It won him a Bronze Medal and his debut at Malvern, Jack has won 12 awards at RHS flower shows.

“I just loved being outside when I was young,” says Jack. “My mum was a very keen gardener and my dad was in construction, so I would spend a lot of time in the garden, learning about plants.

“I was particularly inspired by the Chelsea Flower Show. I was watching it on TV one summer and decided to come up with my own design. I put pen to paper and submitted it to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

“Because of restriction due to my age, the only place I could build the garden was at the Malvern Spring Show. So, I tried it and that caused a domino effect.

“As I didn’t have a business at the time, I relied solely on the generosity of sponsors and my parents. But once I had built one garden, people were willing to support me as they could see I had talent and it helped that I was attracting publicity!”

Media Attention Throughout his teenage years, Jack attracted a great deal of media focus, with his television appearances including Gardener’s World and The Alan Titchmarsh Show.

Whilst he enjoyed being in front of the camera as he hoped he might inspire young people to try

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Paul Slawson in the ‘quirky’ plant nursery

JACK DUNCKLEY’S: 65

gardening, Jack still liked to get his hands dirty!

He continually proved himself against the top designers and the accolades kept coming. At the age of 16, he won a Silver Medal at Hampton Court Palace for ‘Deserts Delight’, a garden that incorporated a snaking path leading up to an amazing oasis.

In 2012, Jack was awarded the Silver Gilt at Hampton Court for ‘The Italian Job’ and the following year at the Chelsea

judges turn up with clipboards and it looks like they make a judgment in seconds. But they visit regularly and judge you from the initial design stage right through to completion.�

Flower Show, ‘Juxtaposition’ saw Jack become the youngest recipient of a Silver Gilt at Chelsea, the prestigious flower show in the country.

Jack said: “The process for the big flower shows is harder than people imagine. Firstly, you need to pitch your design to the RHS and a board of judges will look through all of the entries. Only when have you been approved can you build it. “On television, viewers see the

P.J. Barrow

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Bermuda Triangle For the 2017 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Jack designed his edgiest garden to date. ‘Bermuda Triangle’ was inspired

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by how the island transformed from an underwater volcano that rose from the sea and into an island of lush vegetation.

It has a contemporary twist, with an aluminium frame representing the volcano, with a palm tree exploding from it.

Jack said: “The category I entered was ‘Fresh,’ which gives the designer a certain amount of artistic freedom. “Some show gardens need to be practical spaces as well as

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66: BUSINESS

Read our feature on St Mary’s House, Bramber, on the Special Features page at www.aahorsham.co.uk

COLUMN

Jack Dunckley and Matthew Hart

RSPB Pulborough Brooks

innovative in design, but the Fresh category invited new ideas.

“My entry was not a practical garden; more a functional piece of art. At the end of the day, Chelsea is about pushing the boundaries of design and that is what I wanted to do.

“Some of my earlier gardens were quite conservative and this year I wanted to show something different. I’m no longer the boy that everyone wants to do well; I need to demonstrate the full range of what I can offer.

“I'm not convinced that Bermuda Triangle was appreciated by all the judges, although I did win a Bronze Medal. Certainly, the public feedback was excellent.”

Small is Good Jack Dunckley’s design studio is located at the nursery and Jack is willing to take on jobs of any size.

“When it comes to design, I take on anything from a tiny patio to an 80-acre estate with rivers, ponds and all manner of features. They all represent a different challenge and it’s satisfying to maximise the potential of a small space.

“People perceive there to be a high cost, perhaps because of the awards that I’ve won, but landscaping is often less costly than people expect.

“Certainly, it costs nothing to come in for a discussion about

some of the options.

“We have a perfect spot here in Henfield, very close to Partridge Green, and a very knowledgeable team, so whether you’re here for food or plants, I’m sure you’ll find the visit worthwhile!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

Visit Jack Dunckley’s Plant Nursery at Kidders Lane, Henfield, BN5 9AB. Open Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 10am - 4pm Call 01273 494058 or visit www.jackdunckley.com

T: 01403 731300 M: 07818 815291 E: info@cbselectrical.co.uk • Domestic design and installations including garden lighting, design and installations • Commercial and industrial design and installations • Fire alarms design, installation and commissioning • Emergency lighting design, installation and commissioning • All aspects of electrical maintenance • Electrical certification EICR and Landlords Certification

www.cbs-electricalcontractors.co.uk

Image: Graham Osborne/RSPB

Beware the Mighty Dragonflies!

If you were a mosquito, you’d be smart to steer clear of the local ponds on a sunny day - fearsome predators will be patrolling and with their 95% hunting success rate, you wouldn’t stand a chance.

Dragonflies are the insect equivalent of birds of prey. They can fly in every direction at high speeds including backwards and their bulbous eyes allow them a 360° view of the world.

Although we know dragonflies as small, agile insects, they would have had wingspans of around two feet when dinosaurs roamed the earth!

However, the most interesting part of a dragonfly’s life cycle is spent underwater. Nymphs hatch out and spend up to five years eating almost any other pond creature including their own kind. This monster of the deep can project its lower jaw forward to capture prey and for an extra burst of speed, they will propel water through their bottoms! When the nymphs are large enough, they will climb to the top of a plant and split their skins, emerging as adults and leaving behind perfectly-formed skins, or exuviae. It takes time for them to pump their new wings full of blood before they can take their maiden flight.

Over half Britain’s dragonfly and damselfly species are at Pulborough Brooks. We’ve recently seen nymphs emerging from our ponds and some beautiful species such as broadbodied chaser and emperor dragonfly have been darting around, so do pop down for the chance to see one our most fearsome predators!

Emily Summers RSPB Pulborough