AAH (All About Horsham) June 2021

JUNE 2021

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

AAH partners with One Tree Planted We’re delighted to announce that we’ve partnered with One Tree Planted (@onetreeplanted) and will be planting trees every month.

One Tree Planted is a non-profit organisation dedicated to global reforestation. They plant trees to restore nature and biodiversity. They also raise awareness about the importance of trees, offer businesses simple sustainability solutions and motivate younger generations to do something positive.

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AAH will be planting a tree for every advert placed in the magazine for the next year, initially supporting a scheme in Ghana. One Tree Planted is working with Ghana’s government in a project called AFR100, an initiative to restore more than 100 million hectares of land across Africa by 2030.

AAH heard about the scheme at Studio Locus, which was featured in May’s edition and already supports it.

Horsham Coffee Roaster has also supported One Tree Planted since 2019, donating over 5,000 plants to date. https://onetreeplanted.org AAH June donation: 56 plants

COVER STORY This month’s cover features Chris Wintermeyer, who plays the trumpet in W3, the resident funk band at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London. Chris is a Horsham resident and is bringing W3 to town for the opening night of a new Arts Club at The Capitol, where this photo was taken. It’s still quiet at the venue, so Alan could pick anywhere for the photograph. But he never looked beyond the retro wallpaper in the foyer, which went up during refurb of The Capitol in lockdown.

Alan took several shots while Chris played the music of George Gershwin, which echoed around the venue. But it’s this nonplaying shot we liked best.

Other cover contenders included artist Angela Brittain in her Horsham studio and chef-athome Lewis Wilson.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morris (Ashington), James Hobbs (Thakeham), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris Family (West Chiltington) Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale - not currently able to deliver) WELCOME TO THE TEAM Lara Green is taking on an extended delivery round in Hernbrook Drive and St Leonard’s Road.

THANK YOU! The Morrison Family who have delivered AAH to Dutchells Copse in Horsham since Sept 2020.

Homes here will continue to receive the magazine.

PICK UP POINTS & STANDS Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands, at businesses, clubs and shops across the district.

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

Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Barns Green Village Store, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), Slinfold Golf Club (Slinfold), Steyning Leisure Centre and Cobblestone Walk (Steyning) Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington) and Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington) Some stands are currently inaccessible due to Covid. We are delighted that stands are now back at Henry Adams and Crates in the Carfax, with the leisure centre stands (except The Bridge) now in action too.

BACK ISSUES We do keep a few copies of past editions. Copies cost £3.50 each, which includes postage. To enquire about buying back issues, email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies (£50 for A4 leaflets)

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News Round-Up

Entertainment

Art

Food & Drink

Artists will open their studios to the public during the Horsham Art Trail. Also, details of the WSCC elections and local referendums

The Capitol v enue marks its 85th anniversary with a new Art Club, while former projectionist Bob Jackson returns after 80 years

Angela Brittain’s work may be inspired by greats like Gauguin, but it has a movement and tone which makes it unique

Chef Lewis Wilson has launched a new business, cooking beautiful dishes for customers in the comfort of their own home

MONEY TALKS Notes from the Editor: Doing the right thing for the wrong reasons If I had to pick just one thing on TV that annoys me, it would probably be adverts where they change the lyrics of well-known songs to suit a brand of car, shampoo or fish fingers.

But if I had a second pick, it would be those guys you see on breakfast TV, bragging about rowing an ocean or climbing a mountain. You know the sort.

They usually say “110 percent” when describing the physical or mental endurance involved. And they often claim it was all done for charity...

Most of the time, that’s not true. Whether it’s an individual or business involved, such acts are seldom selfless. They may be incredible feats - beyond anything I could achieve - but they’re still driven by a personal goal or need to self-publicise. For businesses, there’s usually a financial motive, perhaps to present a perception of a company that cares.

So anyway, AAH is now supporting One Tree Planted, which as the column to the left states, is a not-for-profit organisation that plants trees all over the world.

Wonderful, although of course our support also comes from a position of selfpromotion. If the magazine went bust in a year, the fact that I’d contributed to the planting of a few hundred trees in Ghana wouldn’t provide me with much comfort.

Nonetheless, the fact that businesses such as AAH are helping environmentallyfriendly initiatives to boost their own profile is a good thing, isn’t it? It demonstrates a shift in attitudes being driven by positive social change. This is no longer a country where Jeremy Clarkson has the final say on electric cars.

The contribution of AAH is small (albeit a significant one to me, being a one-man band!) But at the other end of the scale, the people’s will for a greener future can have a much bigger impact. Take, for example, the case of Ceres Power, featured in this edition (page 55).

Since the Horsham-based company floated on the stock exchange, its share price has rocketed, quadrupling in value in one year alone. The reason for this is a unique fuel cell it has developed, which is being utilised by global manufacturers to create greener, more sustainable products in countless industries. It’s share price has been driven up by investors, many of whom I suspect care more about profit margins than their green credentials.

Yet the investment has allowed Ceres to continue innovating and exploring new ways to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

Contributing to One Tree Planted – or any such scheme – is really no different. It’s an act of self-promotion for the financial gain of the magazine. Yet it’s important, as it does some good. And in times when more businesses are saving money by letting staff to work from home, or forsaking Christmas cards, or not having work parties, perhaps charitable contributions will become the norm and collectively businesses will incite real change.

Until recently, the political will to save the planet hasn’t matched the public’s will.

But in March, the UK government pledged £150m to protect 2.1m hectares of rainforest. Presumably, it has its own reasons for promoting its green credentials so publicly...

So, maybe there is hope for the future, as businesses join governments in a selfpublicising bash at saving the world!

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Gardens

More Gardens!

Technology

Business

A run-down of venues taking part in National Garden Scheme Open Days, including Nymans and Durrance Manor in Shipley

Fern & Flora is a new garden design business founded by two friends, while Mystic J ungle offers plants with a wellbeing message

Ceres Power is one of Horsham’s most innovative companies, developing fuel cell technology for a greener future

Kangarooz is a Warnham-based business making signs and visual displays for industry, schools and even theme parks

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Individuality | Opportunity | Community

HORSHAM NEWS Announcements and Events from across the District

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Horsham artist Joanna Wenczka (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2017)

The Shelley Memorial Project is campaigning for a public memorial to poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. A marathon poetry reading event will be held in Horsham this summer to raise funds. The Shelleython will see participants aiming to complete a reading of all 450 of Shelley’s poems over a weekend. The project has been endorsed by Michael Rosen, the former Children’s Laureate.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the event and future plans to commemorate the poet, who was born in Warnham. www.shelleymemorialproject.co.uk

Westerdijk and Claire Morris (sculptures), Angela Jenkinson and Jane Cole (glass art), Denise Bliss, Alison Crowe and Jill Mills (jewellery), Julie Murphy of Ceramic Spirit, Steve Gubbins and Susan Tindall (ceramics), Angela Brittain, Kevin Meeten, Karin Pfannenschmidt, Paul Talbot, Cherry Parsons, Joanna Wenczka, Kezia NoelPaton, Dominic Simpson, Kat Giannini,

Bolney Wine Estate has launched its first still Chardonnay. The 2020 vintage joins the Bolney Estate range, alongside Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. 2020 proved to be an excellent year for ripening – the best Bolney Wine Estate has experienced for a few years – with the Chardonnay 2020 retaining more apple and citrus characteristics. The Bolney Estate describes its Chardonnay as “textured, crisp white with citrus, apricot and orange peel, finishing with creamy brioche and honey.” www.bolneywineestate.com

Jo Willis, Alison Ingram, Carole Rupniak, Pat Wright, Lindsey Pearson and Sharon Norman (paintings), Joanna Gill, Vicky Glyn, Esther Clark, Iris Bishop and Anne Lim (textiles), Deborah Crago (drawings and textiles), Andre Westerdijk (upcycling) and Sue Collins (lino printing). Venues are open from 10am - 5pm. For a trail map, visit www.horshamartists.org

Vegan Fest is now holding a monthly market in Piries Place, Horsham.

Reflecting a growing interest in plantbased cuisine, the vegan market features up to 18 stalls offering cold savoury snacks, cakes, chocolate, cheese, bodycare & ecofriendly household goods. The market was first held on 24 April and is now a monthly occurrence, held on the last Saturday of each month. Profits go to Holbrook Animal Rescue and Animals Asia. facebook.com/veganfesthorsham

Pollyanna’s Kitchen ©AAH/Toby Phillips 2020

The Horsham Artists Art Trail will be held over the first two weekends in July (3 - 4 and 10 - 11) The annual event will see 35 artists exhibiting work at 14 different venues in and around Horsham, with visitors able to view and buy a wide range of paintings, prints, ceramics, jewellery and crafts. Artists involved in the Art Trail include Lesley Taylor, Brenda Finch, Irma

Megan Tebbutt of Sit & Sip Tasting Room

A Sit & Sip Tasting Room has opened in Piries Place, Horsham.

The boutique lounge bar combines city style with the comfort and warmth of a local. It serves up craft beers from Sussex brewers, as well as artisan spirits from small batch producers and charcuterie boards.

Megan Tebbutt, General Manager, said: “Plans for our opening have been put back time and time again due to the pandemic. We are beyond happy to finally open and

bring the Sit & Sip experience to Horsham. Fingers crossed, if the lockdown easing goes to plan, we’ll be bringing a host of tasting events to town later in the year.”

The Tasting Room includes a bottle shop with local suppliers including Cabin Pressure Spirits and Brolly Brewing. It is open from 10am, serving hot drinks and treats from Truffles Bakery. Sign up for the Tasting Club at www.sitandsip.co.uk

The Capitol Theatre in Horsham hosts A Night At The Musicals, featuring West End stars Oliver Tompsett and Louise Dearman, on Saturday 24 July.

Tompsett is best known for playing the role of Galileo in the West End hit We Will Rock You and Fiyero in Wicked. Dearman is known for roles in Cats, Wicked and Guys & Dolls.

Tickets £28 from www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Run Barns Green will be held on Sunday 26 September, subject to guidelines regarding the pandemic.

It will be the 39th anniversary of the event and two races – the Half Marathon and 10K – will take place.

Run Barns Green is organised by volunteers and raises funds for local good causes. This year’s event is sponsored by Architectural Plants. To enter, visit www.runbarnsgreen.org.uk

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Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens hosts an Enchanted Woodland Trail on 30 July - to 1 August, and 6 - 8 August, from 3:30 - 8pm.

The mile-long trail features unicorns for children to ride, a circus performance workshop and an interactive show with giant puppet Gnomus, Guardian of Leonardslee Woods. There will be street food and drink stalls, live music and a boutique market offering art, fashion, jewellery and homeware. www.enchantedleonardslee.co.uk There will be a special guest at the evening showing of Bohemian Rhapsody in the Loxwood Meadows on Saturday 31 July and Sunday 1 August. Loxwood Drive-in Movies has announced that Tim Staffell, formerly of the band Smile, will talk about his friendship with Freddie Mercury, Brian May and Roger Taylor. Tim will also perform the first song from the movie, which he co-wrote with Brian May, who was a member of Smile before becoming a founder member of Queen. Tickets £30 in advance (vehicle with two people) from www.loxwooddriveinmovies.co.uk

TOOVEY’S 11

Businesses are coming together to create a Horsham Gets Naked calendar for 2022.

Staff from 12 businesses will strip to raise money for Cancer Research & The Be Real Campaign.

Participants include Brock Taylor, Rust & Lewis Building, La Vida Boutique, D. Durrant’s Removals, Duel Strength & Fitness, The Olive Branch, Pretty Things and Toby Phillips Photography.

HorshamGetsNaked @HorshamGetsNaked A selection of art and antiques auctioned this year for a total of £23,400

Following the trial booking scheme at selected Household Waste Recycling Sites, West Sussex County Council has confirmed that the number of visits available per household will increase from 1 June.

WSCC says that the trial at six sites, including Horsham, has “proved popular with most users” but the restriction of one visit per week has been a drawback. This has now been increased to five bookings within any calendar month.

The demand from buyers for a wide range of antiques, works of art and collectables has never been stronger!

Valuing items now for our summer sales ~ at your home or at our salerooms. Please ring for an appointment or email us images for an online valuation.

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Horsham District voters went to the polls on Thursday 6 May. There were elections for West Sussex County Council, as well as Neighbourhood Planning Referendums in Ashington, Billingshurst, Bramber, Henfield, Rudgwick, Rusper, Shipley, Southwater, Upper Beeding and West Grinstead.

The referendums gave residents the opportunity to have a say on development plans in their parish. In most cases, Horsham District Council’s Local Plan is proposing more new housing than what Parish Councils have recommended in their Neighbourhood Plan. Residents were asked which option they would prefer. However, it wasn’t an easy question to answer for some. For example, campaigners in Southwater (which has been heavily impacted by development in recent years) are unhappy even with the numbers of new houses in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Although less than the Local Plan, they believe it is still too high and that residents were unwittingly agreeing to it through the referendum. Nonetheless, 82% of respondents voted for the Neighbourhood Plan over the Local Plan in Southwater.

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Results were similar elsewhere. In Ashington, which also faces a significant housing allocation, the figure was also over 82%, while in Billingshurst 87% preferred the Neighbourhood Plan. It was the same story across the District, with voters in

Green field land at Great House Farm, Southwater is under threat (Toby Phillips/AAH 2012)

Bramber, Henfield, Rudgwick, Rusper, Shipley, Upper Beeding and West Grinstead opposing the Local Plan, which threatens vast tracts of green space in rural areas.

In the West Sussex County Council elections, the Conservatives retained control, with 48 councillors on the 70person Council. The Liberal Democrats have 10 councillors, Labour nine and the Green Party one. There is one Independent councillor and one from the Local Alliance.

Before the elections, the Conservatives

held 50 seats. The first meeting of the new-look Council was held on 21 May, when Paul Marshall (Storrington) was appointed Leader of the Council for the next four years and Pete Bradbury (Cuckfield & Lucastes) was appointed Chairman.

The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner election was also held. Katy Bourne (Conservative) was re-elected.

There was one election for Horsham District Council. In the Trafalgar ward, Martin Boffey was a comfortable victor for the Liberal Democrats.

Become a Host Family for an international pupil at a local boarding school Pippa’s Guardians care for international students at boarding schools across the country. We find supportive and caring families who can offer a welcoming and caring home for students during school holidays.

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Becoming a host family is a rewarding and enjoyable experience for the family too; providing the opportunity to really make a difference to a student whilst they are studying in England, in many cases a very long way from home.

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The monthly Horsham Rocks 'Showcase Thursdays' for local talent are poised to return to The Rec Rooms on 3 June, featuring covers acts Black Heart Angel and The Slammers. Acts interested in playing at future nights can visit therecrooms.com/local-talent.html ilonalowe has released a new single, Once Again. Coproduced with Joe Green and mixed by Alex Bayly, the song is a dark and personal account of falling into self-destructive comforts. ilonalowe is a pseudonym for local alternative folk artist Marnie Burt. Marnie is inspired by the likes of Laura Marling and Cherry Ghost. The song is available on streaming services including Bandcamp.

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2015

Slinfold Concert Band continued to rehearse during the pandemic, meeting on Zoom, and at Christmas live-streamed a performance from the Drill Hall. The band is now back in Slinfold Village Hall rehearsing live and looking forward to summer engagements. The friendly band welcomes new members, so if you rediscovered an instrument during lockdown and are interested in joining, visit www.slinfoldconcertband.org

Andrew Bernardi will perform on a Stradivarius (Toby Phillips/AAH 2015)

The Shipley Arts Festival continues with Shipley Idyll at Findon Place on Friday 25 June, at 7:30pm.

The evening will include the 2020 commission Shipley Idyll, written by Sussex composer Paul Lewis to mark Shipley Arts Festival’s 20 years in the community. Performing this notable piece to a live audience for the first time, Andrew Bernardi will be playing the beautiful violin concerto on his Stradivarius. The next event in the festival programme is at Windlesham House School near Washington on Tuesday 29 June. The Stradivarius Piano Trio will be performing with the String Academy. Baroque to Jazz at Lackenhurst will be hosted by the Burrell family on Friday 2 July. The evening features jazz violinist and composer Joe Townsend. For tickets, visit www. bernardimusicgroup.com

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Kissingate Brewery in Lower Beeding is now offering a range of fresh bakes and sweets to customers. Tucked away on the Church Lane Industrial Estate, the brewery welcomes visitors to relax in pleasant surroundings and enjoy its award-winning ales, including Black Cherry Mild, a National Champion Beer of Britain. In addition to 12 cask beers, Gary and Bunny Lucas offer a selection of bottled beers, brewery merchandise and local gins and ciders. www.kissingate.co.uk

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The Horsham Beer Festival returns to the Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham, on 3 - 4 September. There will be three sessions (Friday and Saturday evening, as well as a lunchtime session on Saturday.)

In 2020, a small event was held

in the Carfax, but organisers Nick Southon and Tim Pitts are looking forward to welcoming back a much wider range of brewers from Sussex and beyond for this year’s event, back at its traditional venue. .horshambeerfestival.co.uk

The ABC Animal Sanctuary in Juggs Lane, West Chiltington, hosts re-opening events throughout July. The sanctuary is open from 12 - 4.30pm on Sundays 4, 11, 18 and 25 July.

Visitors can meet the animals and groom a pony. Entry £2.50 (children free) abcanimalsanctuary.co.uk

Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH) is seeking new recruits for its Volunteer Army.

Many older people are suffering after months in isolation, so the charity is expanding its services and seeks support from the public in volunteering roles.

Anyone interested can email richard.harris@ageukwsbh.org.uk

(Toby Phillips/AAH 2011)

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Horsham Beer Festival 2015 (©AAH/Toby Phillips)

Gary Lucas at Kissingate Brewery

Hear Better - Feel Better New “mask mode” features

Over the last year, we have all found it difficult to hear and communicate while wearing masks. Anyone with a hearing loss has found it even more of a struggle.

Now, new technology is available to enhance hearing and overcome the muffling effect of masks. New features such as “mask mode”, rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth connectivity are now available in the latest hearing instruments.

Improve your health & wellbeing

Living in isolation can be bad for your health and wellbeing. For many people, poor hearing can lead to isolation and withdrawal.

People who treat their hearing loss not only hear better, but may lower their risk for serious health issues such as cognitive decline and dementia. Let us help you to unlock your hearing and re-connect with the world.

All hearing aids amplify sounds, but ours improve clarity New Apps available on smartphones allow you to change volume, switch memories and much more. Monitor your body and brain health, set daily goals, and answer calls with the touch of a button, streaming conversations directly to your hearing aid. New “in the canal’ hearing adds are available, with rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity and best-ever sound quality. They are also easy to wear with masks.

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25 Years in Horsham

At the Horsham Hearing Centre, we have continued to use “Covid-secure” clinics throughout the past year and we are proud to have looked after all our customers during this difficult time. All our audiologists and support staff have had Covid vaccinations and we continue to offer a safe service in a safe environment.

If you have struggled to hear over lockdown, why not book a “Covid-secure” appointment with one of our audiologists and try some of the latest hearing aids?

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Tom Singfield has just published his sixth book on aviation.

Launched in April 2021, Classic Gatwick Jetliners is a celebration of the jetliners that visited Gatwick for the first 30 years after its re-opening as London’s second major airport in 1958. With over 200 photos, the book describes iconic types including the de Havilland Comet, the Boeing 707 and the 747 Jumbo Jet. Tom, a retired Gatwick Air Traffic Control Officer, has also previously written co-authored a major work on the history of aviation in Bermuda. Published by The History Press, it costs £20. Signed copies are available from the author.

Britaniacrest Recycling Limited plans to build a 3R’s facility in Horsham (©Toby Phillips/AAH 2019)

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The Environment Agency is holding a public consultation on an application from Britaniacrest Recycling Limited for an environmental permit variation at its Recycling, Recovery and Renewable Energy facility in Horsham.

The variation is to add mechanical sorting and an energy recovery facility at the Langhurstwood Road site.

The Wealden Works Recycling, Recovery and Renewable (3Rs) Energy facility will be capable of treating up to 230,000 tonnes of non-recyclable, non-hazardous waste a year, with electricity generated being exported to the electrical grid. Following a public inquiry, planning permission was granted in February 2020, after Britaniacrest demonstrated that their proposal would not severely impact the rural landscape of West Sussex.

Britaniacrest hopes to move to the construction stage this summer. But first, The Environment Agency is seeking

comments on the application from the community and interested groups, having declared it a site of “high public interest”.

A permit variation will only be issued if the operator demonstrates that it meets all legal requirements of the Environment Permitting Regulations and that the facility will be operated in a way that provides a high level of protection of the environment and human health. The consultation runs until 24 June 2021. To respond, email: pscpublicresponse@ environment-agency.gov.uk No Incinerator 4 Horsham (Ni4H), a community group that represents residents opposing the Britaniacrest facility, has already responded to the Environment Agency’s consultation, with a list of concerns about the proposals. https://ni4h.org

Gina FrenchLarcombe’s new book, The Little Book of Preserves, is now available to buy.

Gina, who writes the regular recipe column in Shipley Parish News, likes “non-fussy cooking”.

The recipes in her book are simple to follow and have been developed during many years of preserving and tweaking.

They include jams, jellies, pickles, chutneys and fruit drinks, as well as fruit butter and cheeses and a section on herbs. The book is fully illustrated in colour. The book costs £10 from ginafrench@gfrs.co.uk Send us your news: If you’d like something included in the News Round-Up, email submissions to: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

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All That Jazz Ronnie Scott’s favourites kickstart Horsham Arts Club

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Chris Wintermeyer performs trumpet with W3, a jazz/funk band who will be playing at Horsham Arts Club

The Capitol Theatre will be launching the Horsham Arts Club (HAC) on Friday 16 July.

HAC will focus on contemporary and jazz music, with the inaugural event showcasing W3, the resident funk house band at Ronnie Scott’s world famous jazz club. AAH met Chris Wintermeyer, a Horsham-based musician who plays trumpet in W3.

Chris, tell us about W3…

The band started as a group of young musicians coming together in a pub to jam.

Gradually, this evolved to become one of the best jam nights in London. We were invited to play at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and prior to Covid, ours was one of the most successful nights at the venue, generating a real party atmosphere. W3 is an eightpiece band, but the line-up changes, depending on who is around on the night.

What kind of jazz do you play?

There’s a lot of funk, with music by the likes of James Brown, Tower of Power and Herbie Hancock. We also take inspiration from more contemporary acts, such as Lettuce.

Some people think of jazz as being snooty and elitist, but we just have fun and anyone who loves funk music will have a good time.

How long have you played the trumpet?

I started when I was four, before my mum got me involved with a marching band called The Southern Knights. I joined jazz bands at school, eventually busking on the streets of Brighton and playing local clubs, including Casablanca’s, to hone my craft. It was when I went to London and met other musicians that things started to happen.

What’s it like playing at Ronnie Scott’s?

It has so much history because of the big names who have played there, so it’s the Mecca of jazz in the UK. But it doesn’t just live off the names of past greats - it encourages new acts too. There are some incredible musicians coming out of universities playing a modern fusion of jazz, funk and soul, and Ronnie Scott’s provides opportunities for them, while also hosting the best acts around. The house band, with pianist James Pearson, is incredible!

How tough has the last year been?

It’s been a terrible time for everyone in the entertainment industry. I’m a session musician and have been lucky enough to tour with well-known pop artists, including Gary Barlow and Ollie Murs. But of course, there’s been no touring for a long time now.

Recently, I’ve been able to meet with musician friends again and live stream performances. I think we’ll see an explosion of culture as we emerge from Covid.

Is there a market for jazz in Horsham?

The wonderful thing about the internet is that music is accessible in ways it never used to be. People are discovering all kinds of sounds from all eras and there’s a wider cultural spectrum now. With people moving from the city into towns like Horsham, the demographic is changing too, and there are opportunities to bring the best of the city to regional theatres.

Is the venue suited to jazz?

I attend a local church, Lifespring, that uses The Capitol, so I know it has good acoustics.

The dressing rooms are nice too, compared to some of the dives I’ve played in over the years! So, it’ll be great for musicians and audiences will have a fantastic time.

Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright Tickets to the opening night on Friday 16 July cost £28 (includes free drink) from www.thecapitolhorsham.com

HOW TO RESOLVE YOUR FAMILY DISPUTE Coole Bevis are The alternatives to mediation In last month’s article I considered the benefits of mediation. Whilst mediation is likely to be the swiftest and most cost effective way forwards in finding a resolution to your family dispute it is not always suitable or appropriate.

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Ritz & Glamour The home of Horsham entertainment celebrates 85 years

23 The Ritz pictured soon after opening in 1936 (Photo courtesy of The Capitol/Horsham District Council)

With June marking the 85th anniversary of The Capitol building, we take a nostalgic look back at the history of Horsham’s much-loved entertainment venue...

Bob Jackson was a Projectionist at The Ritz in its early days and at 96, still lives in Horsham. He joined as ‘Rewind Boy’ after leaving Oxford Road School and became Second Projectionist when his colleague Arthur Sayers joined the RAF. He worked at the cinema for two years and recalls long queues, as films were a popular form of escapism during the war.

The Ritz opened its doors in June 1936 and since then, the venue has had several guises, but has always played a pivotal role in the town’s entertainment.

It was built in just six months by Hall Beddall & Co Ltd, using local labour and construction partners. Mr Parsons of Messrs Godman & Kay designed the building, including its beautiful art-deco style features, with capacity for 1,086 people on two levels, stalls and one circle.

One interesting feature was a Compton theatre organ which provided live music and sound effects to accompany silent films. The organist would also play music at the interval while the audience enjoyed sweets and ice creams.

The building was owned and operated by Union Cinemas. At that time, there were four cinemas in town, the other three being The Capitol Theatre (at its former site), Winter Garden and The Carfax. Odeon Cinema opened just four months later.

While visiting The Capitol in May, when he met current Projectionist/Technician Dan Barnes, Bob reminisced about his time there. “You had to concentrate, as we used 20-minute film reels and had to load them up in the right order. Only once do I remember the Lead Projectionist loading the wrong reel and it was during a critical part of the film too!”

Bob Jackson enjoys a drink on the roof of The Ritz, before he was called up for service

Union Cinemas ran into financial trouble and fell under the control of Associated British Cinemas (ABC) in October 1937, but the cinema retained its name and was called The Ritz for 30 years.

“‘I also went to the Brighton Astoria and Granada Cinema in Hove as relief cover. I needed a special pass as people couldn’t travel around freely during the war.”

“I left just before Gone With The Wind came to Horsham, which I was pleased about as it was about three hours long! I then worked at Peter Dominic’s Wine Merchants in the Carfax, before being called up for service in

1943. I’ve only been back to The Capitol once, so to be here now feels special and it’s great to see that some parts of the building are still familiar to me.”

In 1967, the cinema was re-named the ABC during a two-week run of My Fair Lady to give a clearer brand image. In the 1970s, a decline in attendances saw the cinema added to ABC's list for disposal.

Horsham District Council acquired the site in January 1982 and ran it as a cinema until November 1983.

The venue was rebranded as ABC in 1967 (Photo courtesy of The Capitol/HDC)

At the time, The Capitol Theatre was the name for another venue in town. Built in 1923, The Capitol was originally in London Road, before moving to Medwin Walk. It was demolished in 1983 to make way for Marks & Spencer, so the Council decided to transform the ABC into a theatre and cinema. By December 1984, the building had its third name, Horsham Arts Centre.

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A new foyer was built, while a section of the rear stalls of the former cinema were converted into a 126-seat cinema, again called The Ritz. A new cafe with bar and additional art gallery space was created too. When work was complete, the new theatre had a capacity of 450, still with much of The Ritz cinema's original artdeco plasterwork.

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Bob Jackson returns to cinema where he worked 80 years ago (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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In January 2002, work commenced on a £6m refurbishment, with a new glass atrium at the front and a new cinema and art gallery above. The cinema on the ground floor was refurbished, with the 100-seat Studio theatre added upstairs.

The theatre’s main auditorium was also completely refurbished with both levels re-raked and re-seated, providing 410 seats. Renamed as The Capitol (following a public vote organised by the West Sussex County Times), the doors opened in September 2003 and it was officially opened by HRH Queen Elizabeth II on 24 October 2003.

Words: Ben Morris (adapted) Photos: Alan Wright/The Capitol If anyone has a connection to the venue, perhaps when it was called The Ritz, ABC or Horsham Arts Centre, then The Capitol team would love to hear from you. Please email: tracey.grubb@horsham.gov.uk

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G PICTURES Artist Focus: Angela Brittain There is something about the art of Angela Brittain that looks immediately familiar. Yet while the influence of great artists is apparent, distinctive tones and a sense of movement make Angela’s work instantly recognisable.

Angela featured in the very first edition of AAH back in 2011 and a decade later, the Horsham artist continues to captivate with her unique style.

“I should have been born in the 1930s,” she says. “Most of the artists that I admire and have inspired me were prominent at that time. However, my love of art began with Paul Gauguin. The composition of his work draws you in and when you see it, you can imagine what he was thinking at the time.

I’m a fan of Stanley Spencer and David Hockney too, as they have a similar graphic style with an incredible expression of colour, which is what excites me as an artist.”

A key component of Angela’s abstract expressionism is her stylised figures, which are carefully considered and created with vector lines. “Vector lines help move your eye from one area to another and create focal points,” she says. “The lines are obvious, but that’s how I like it, as it creates the shapes of people and the space between them.”

“I like working with related colours too, usually introducing an accent colour alongside them to offer a contrast and something that screams out at you.”

“Because of the composition and the forms my figures take, much of my output may seem similar. But I do like to try new things. One recent painting, The Yellow Chair, was very different as it didn’t have the same movement and had much bolder tones. People wouldn't necessarily think it was one of mine. I like the freedom of not being pigeonholed.”

Art With Context

Tread Softly on the Earth

Shut Your Eyes and Listen

Lockdown has given Angela the opportunity to be more creative with her ideas. However, it’s not been a great time from a commercial perspective.

“My work doesn’t sell well online,” she says. “People need to understand what I'm trying to say in a painting. When it’s presented as an online image without the context, it can’t project the story behind the painting.”

An internet image also gives little clue as to the preparation behind each painting. Angela will spend weeks meticulously planning a piece before committing to the final work. This process includes sketches and experimenting with various colours.

She then uses an old-fashioned, wind-up machine to enlarge sketches while keeping everything in proportion.

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Angela says, “My latest painting expresses the joy of dance, so it’s important to capture freedom and movement. I start with sketches to capture the right dimensions, then think about colours. Once I've tried two or three different colourways, I decide whether to do the final piece with oils, acrylics or watercolours. I feel like a real artist when I'm working with oils though!”

Did You Know?

Like his friend Vincent Van Gogh, Gauguin’s genius wasn’t fully appreciated until after his death in 1903. His paintings sold for low prices and he was largely met with contempt by critics.

Gauguin’s Nafea Faa Ipoipo sold for $210m in 2014.

And the Nile Flows

Italian Adventures Angela is now an Associate of The Society of Women’s Artists and contributes to its annual exhibition. Her work has also been exhibited at The Russell Gallery in London, while four paintings have been bought for a new gallery in Wisconsin.

She continues to support local art groups too, exhibiting at The Sussex Art Fair and with the Association of Sussex Artists (ASA).

Angela is also a member of Horsham Artists and welcomes visitors to her studio in July, as part of the group’s annual Art Trail.

Dance the Night Away

With a second home in Abruzzo, Angela has also organised painting holidays to Italy, leading small groups of local painters to meet Italian artists to enjoy painting, culture and cuisine. This passion for helping others improve their artistic skills led to art workshops too.

Angela continues to paint daily and ideas can come from anywhere. She says, “It may be something I think, see, read or hear. One recent painting was inspired by Horsham Park. People were reading and enjoying picnics as cyclists rode by and I wanted to capture the ways we share the space.”

Feeling Connected

“Commissions are welcome too and I’m always interested in a challenge, especially larger paintings. I still love what I do and am as passionate as ever. I step inside the studio and I'm in a little world of my own!”

Angela will be involved in the Horsham Art Trail on 3 - 4 & 10 - 11 July and exhibits at the Ashgate Gallery in Farnham, Surrey, from 12 June - 24 July. www.angelabrittain.co.uk Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright/Angela Brittain 29

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LIGHTBULB MOMENT Kirdford Motorcyclist launches own range of Lid Lamps Jimmy Dye was a promising motorcycle rider until a serious accident curtailed his progress.

After a second major crash, he was forced to hang up his racing helmet for good.

However, Jimmy is as passionate about motor racing as ever and hopes his new range of helmet lamps will make him a business success. The Kirdford father-oftwo describes his journey…

Promising Career I've been riding since the age of two. My first bike was a Yamaha PW50. I would ride around the fields in Barns Green every day!

I was obsessed and my dream was to race.

It was only when I went to secondary school that I took up motocross. My friend had a motocross bike and let me have a go on it and that led to me taking up the sport. I won races and competed nationally too.

Then my dad treated me to a track day on a Honda CB125, which led to circuit racing.

I entered the Aprilia Superteen Challenge, a starting point for many young riders. It was great as it gave me experience of national circuits, such as Oulton Park and Donington. I came third in my first season, then moved to the R6 Cup. From there, I progressed to the Triumph Triple Challenge for the 2007 season, riding 600cc bikes.

It was a big jump, but I won the series at the first attempt.

That earned me a ride in the Supersport 600 series for 2008.

I was having a tough time, as I was riding a standard road bike and didn't have the machinery of the leading riders, so I took it as a learning year. But then at Cadwell Park, I came off and was struck in the head by two riders just behind me.

The medical team managed to get me breathing and as the race was stopped I was flown by air ambulance to hospital and placed in an induced coma. I spent two days on life support, but made a full recovery, even if my memory isn’t what it was.

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Despite the crash, I was desperate to ride again. I got another ride and finished 7th in the first round at Brands Hatch, but I hadn’t full recovered. I found I had no familiarity with circuits I’d raced at many times. Results weren’t coming and although my team was supportive, I had to stop midway through the season.

I took a step back and won the Triumph Triple Challenge for a second time in 2010, before trying again at Superstock. But I had another serious accident while testing at Donington. I was enjoying myself and felt good, but I pushed too hard, taking a fourth gear corner in fifth. The bike spat me out and I broke my vertebrae. That was the last time I rode a bike.

It took 18 months for the injury to heal and by then, I had a daughter. She’s seven now and has a brother too! I would be on a bike now if I didn't have children, that’s for sure! But I know that if I crash again, it’ll impact me and my family.

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Eventually, I hope to improve the product, perhaps by adding a USB port or introducing a clock, because the visor lends itself to that. I’ve also thought about designing a smaller nightlight version with rechargeable batteries that switches off when the child is asleep. Another possible idea is to have vinyl stickers to create replica helmets of famous motorcycle riders or creating a Formula One shaped helmet for fans of four-wheeled racing.

Wallpaper visuals can work for homes or children’s bedrooms

Two years ago, I was searching online for a motorcycle helmet lamp for my son’s bedroom. I couldn't find anything and saw an opportunity for a business, because there are millions of motor racing fans out there.

London and I consulted with them to create a concept that I liked and met safety standards.

They liaised with a manufacturer and arranged delivery, while I established the business, Lid Lamps Limited.

I’m a mobile mechanic by trade.

I was having a bad day, as it was cold and wet and I couldn’t shake this idea of the lamps.

So, I called a friend who has run businesses before and sought his advice. He pointed me to a design specialist in

The lamps come in five colours – white, green, pink, red and blue. The tubular light inside means it isn’t too bright and you can use the visor to omit more light. They work well as desk lamps as they offer enough light to read or write.

It’s not often you have an idea that nobody has done before, so I hope there’s a market. There’s a lot of riders and motorcycling fans out there, so I hope the lamps can be a success.

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Chef de Party Lewis Wilson cooks for guests in their own homes

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Lewis Wilson has previously worked in Michelin Star kitchens

Who do we have here?

Lewis Wilson, a chef who has launched his own business, Lewis Behind the Scenes.

How did he manage that?

While a pupil at Forest School, Lewis was struggling to find a work experience placement. Lewis Hamblet, his friend’s father, invited him to South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding, where he worked as the Executive Chef. Young Lewis had no desire to become a chef at the time, but he loved the experience and hasn’t looked back since.

Tough time to open a restaurant…

That’s not the idea. Lewis goes into people’s homes and cooks for them.

What, as a surprise?

No! He doesn’t break in! The chef at home market is growing fast, with specialist companies operating online and even well-known chefs getting involved. Lewis says, “It's a great form of entertainment.

You can invite friends over, enjoy good food and drink and relax in the comfort of your own home.”

Must be tricky for the chef?

It can be challenging, as there’s always different cooking equipment to use.

Preparation is key and Lewis usually asks for a photo of the kitchen beforehand to ensure it has everything he needs. He says, “I use my own pots and pans, but sometimes it can take a while to get used to a different oven. Some heat better than

Lewis uses quality meat from local butchers

others and when there’s no room for error when one minute either way can leave meat over or undercooked - it's a delicate balance. You’ve got nothing to fall back on either, as you’re alone. So, you need to have faith in your ability and adapt quickly to any problems.”

What makes Lewis capable of this?

For a young chef, he has an impressive résumé. Lewis was only 14-years-old when he had his first experience of working in a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Did he carry on working at South Lodge?

Along with his friend Tom Hamblet (the Executive Chef’s son) he went there as an apprentice after leaving Forest, spending four days a week at the five-star hotel and one day at Westminster College, gaining a professional diploma. After a year, he won Rotary International’s Young Chef Competition. Lewis recalls, “It was strange, as we were working in a Michelin-starred restaurant, then being taught basic cooking skills at college. It was too easy, so the college let us skip the first year!”

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Must have been intense at South Lodge though...

Yet Lewis rose to the challenge, working in two of its restaurants (The Camellia and The Pass) and gaining experience of banqueting and pastries too. In addition to the invaluable guidance of the Executive Chef, Lewis worked with Matt Gillan (now at Heritage in Slaugham), who consistently maintained a Michelin Star during his time at The Pass. Lewis says, “You learn something with every dish and the pressure of the star helps you as a chef, because you always need to improve.”

Where did he go next?

Lewis went to The Black Swan in York, run by Tommy Banks, who in 2013 became the UK’s youngest Michelinstarred chef. It was during his successful spell there that Lewis learned the art of foraging, as it’s a key component of Banks’ menu.

Lewis likes to forage for wild ingredients

Foraging?

Using wild ingredients such as plants, herbs, fruits, mushrooms and nuts.

“Even this morning I was out foraging,” says Lewis. “I have my favourite spots for wild garlic, lovage, viola, chives and leeks. Soon, there will be elderflower growing too.”

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How did Lewis end up back in Horsham?

His friends and family are based here and returning was a lifestyle choice. It wasn’t long before people were asking him round to cook and Lewis thought there was a business opportunity. No sooner had he launched Lewis Behind the Scenes when Covid hit. However, he adapted quickly and offered ‘At Home’ food boxes.

What was in them?

The Steak Box for Two includes a beautiful Côte de Boeuf with creamy mashed potatoes and English asparagus. Lewis says, “I do all the preparation, including seasoning and searing the meat, and give clients step-by-step guidelines on how to finish the meal in the oven.”

Like an upmarket takeaway?

Precisely! Lewis buys his meat from Hutching’s in Partridge Green and in future hopes to boost his menu with Sussex Wagyu beef from Trenchmore Farm in Cowfold. He says, “The boxes have a fine dining aspect and the price reflects that, because of the quality of the ingredients. But it’s perfect as people everywhere can enjoy it and make it look like they made a great meal themselves!”

We are looking for homestay families Welcome an International student into your home this September and earn £150 a week A rewarding rre rew rewa rewar reward rewardi rewardin experience e experie experien experienc experi exper ex exp expe w with wit wi v valuable valuab valuabl valua val valu va e extra extr ext ex iincome incom inco inc in

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Lewis enjoys cooking in customers’ kitchens

Why not continue doing this then?

About 400 people have enjoyed the food boxes and they’ve been a great way for Lewis to steadily build his brand during the pandemic. However, as restrictions ease, Lewis hopes to move forward with his initial dream of cooking in people’s homes.

Does he always do beef?

Lewis will typically offer a three or six course menu and propose two choices for each course to the client beforehand, while also taking on board dietary requirements.

Once the menu is agreed, guests enjoy the same dishes. On our visit, Lewis served tender lamb with a celeriac purée,

His menu has a fine dining quality

asparagus, broccoli, baby cauliflower, relish and wild garlic flowers. Dessert was a strawberry tart with Pimm’s jelly.

What does the future hold for him?

Lewis is ready to adapt to the market, perhaps cooking at larger celebrations such as birthdays or weddings. He hopes to work in partnership with his sister’s new boutique bell tent business too, and they’re looking to organise outdoor events this summer. He says, “For now, I'm just enjoying cooking and meeting new people. I’m not a big talker, but just seeing them enjoy the food is the big reward for me.”

Further information: www.lwbehindthescenes.com Lwbehindthescenes@gmail.com Behind The Scenes lewis_behind_the_scenes Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright Further exploration: Matt Gillan is mentioned in the article. Matt now runs Heritage at The Chequers, in the village of Slaugham.

It’s very good... https://heritage.restaurant

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GOOD THYMES Dazzling colour at National Garden Scheme Open Days

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St Mary’s House and Garden, Bramber (©Toby Phillips/AAH 2016)

Some of the most beautiful and colourful gardens in the Horsham District will open to visitors over the next few months through the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

Every year, the NGS sees about 3,600 gardens opening throughout the country, with venues raising money for nursing and health charities, as well as local good causes. Core beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

Several historic homes and National Trust properties including Nymans and St Mary’s House in Bramber are involved in NGS. However, most events are hosted by individual homeowners who are passionate about their garden and have interesting features to inspire the public.

Although we have missed some of the May openings (some of which were cancelled anyway, due to the weather), AAH has compiled a list of gardens opening in the Horsham District between June and

September. There are many more around the county, particularly in Mid Sussex, including gardens at High Beeches, Sheffield Park and Borde Hill. Details of these can be found on the NGS website. As events are often weather dependant, do check online before each visit...

AAH would like to thank Gordon Lindsay, owner of Durrance Manor in Shipley, for allowing us to take photos of his garden to add some colour to this feature and provide a snapshot of the NGS.

The Old Vicarage, Washington, RH20 4AS Thursdays from 3 June – 7 October 10.30am – 4pm A 3½ acre garden set around a 1832 Regency house (not open). The front is formally laid out with topiary, mixed borders and a contemporary water sculpture. The rear features new and mature trees, herbaceous borders, water garden and offers views of the Downs. A Japanese garden with waterfall and pond leads to a copse, stream and treehouse. 2,000 tulips and 10,000 mixed bulbs planted for spring.

Fittleworth House, Fittleworth, RH20 1JH Wednesdays 9 & 16 June, 2 - 5pm Wednesdays 14 & 21 July, 2 - 5pm Wednesday 11 August, 2 - 5pm A tranquil, 3-acre country garden and walled kitchen garden growing a range of fruit, vegetables and flowers. Features include a large glasshouse and old potting shed, mixed flower borders, roses, rhododendrons and lawns, with a 115ft tall cedar overlooking a wisteria-covered Grade II listed Georgian house (not open).

28 Oliver Road, Horsham, RH12 1LH Saturday 12 June, 1 - 5pm A garden on the fringe of Denne Hill, secluded by mature trees and wildlifefriendly hedges, with a pond in the wilderness area, a bee hotel and log piles.

There’s a bespoke greenhouse, shed, rose pergola and a cabin called Poets Corner, with vegetable beds, greenhouses and cottage garden beds.

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Gordon Lindsay at Durrance Manor, Shipley, which has many wonderful features including a Monet-inspired bridge over a pond of waterlilies (©Alan Wright/AAH)

All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & garden maintenance covered. Call for your FREE quotation.

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Gorselands, West Chiltington, RH20 2NL Sunday 27 June, 2 - 5pm Sunday 4 July, 2 - 5pm Features mature mixed borders, dahlia garden, fruit area and wooded area with giant redwood, camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons and two ponds. There will also be a selection of oil paintings for sale

by Oxfordshire artist Jackie Hughes.

Whithurst Park, Kirdford, RH14 0JQ Sunday 4 July, 11am – 5pm A 10-year-old walled kitchen garden with fruit trees, herb beds, vegetable beds, flower borders and cutting beds. There are footpaths around woodlands surrounding the house and lake. Plants will be sold in a self-serve area (cash only). Refreshments in aid of Kirdford Recreation Ground.

Bignor Park, Pulborough, RH20 1HG Tuesday 29 June, 2 – 5pm Tuesday 14 September, 2 – 5pm 11-acres of peaceful gardens to explore, with magnificent views of the South Downs. Interesting trees, shrubs and wildflower areas, with swathes of daffodils in spring. The walled flower garden has been replanted with herbaceous borders, and there are spectacular cedars of Lebanon and rare Lucombe Oak. Bignor Park is the former home of romantic poet Charlotte Smith.

Foxglove Cottage, Horsham, RH13 5NF Wednesday 7 July, 1 - 5pm Sunday 11 July, 1 - 5pm A plantaholic’s garden full of containers, vintage finds and quirky features. Paths intersect borders bursting with colourful planting and salvias in abundance. A beach-inspired summerhouse and deck are flanked by a water feature and two ponds encourage wildlife. The end of the garden is dedicated to a plant nursery, cut flowers and fruit growing. Member of the Hardy Plant Society. Unusual plants will be for sale. Vegan, gluten & dairy-free cake.

St Mary's House, Bramber, BN44 3WE Friday 9 July, 2 - 5pm Saturday 10 July, 2 - 5.30pm 5-acre garden with formal topiary, prehistoric Ginkgo biloba and magnificent Magnolia grandiflora around an enchanting timberframed medieval house (not open). Victorian Secret Garden includes 140ft fruit wall with pineapple pits, rural museum, terracotta garden, jubilee rose garden, King’s garden and circular poetry garden.

Oaklands Farm, Shipley, RH13 8PX Wednesday 14 July, 10.30am - 5.30pm Country garden designed by Nigel Philips.

Features include a vegetable garden with raised beds and greenhouse, and colourful herbaceous borders. A wild meadow leads to an orchard with views across fields of sheep and poultry. Special perennials are for sale with refreshments in aid of Crawley Open House.

Sullington Old Rectory, Storrington, RH20 4AE Wednesday 14 – Thursday 15 July, 10am – 3pm Wednesday 21 – Thursday 22 July, 10am – 3pm With stunning views of the South Downs, the naturalistic style of this country garden sits perfectly into the surrounding landscape. The garden includes a potager, orchard, herb garden, established trees and shrubs, a pleached lime walk and experimental planting in the moist meadow. Take a tour with the head gardener at 10am or 2pm. Refreshments in aid of the local church.

28 Larkspur Way, Southwater, RH13 9GR Sunday 20 July, 2 – 5pm Created for a new build, this small garden is packed with big ideas. There’s a small front garden with pond, Mediterranean area and well-stocked border. The back garden has cottage garden plants, containers, ornaments and ideas to inspire.

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Sussex Prairie Gardens in Henfield (©Toby Phillips/AAH 2018)

Cumberland House, Thakeham, RH20 3ER Wednesday 21 July, 2 - 5pm A Georgian village house (not open) with a beautiful English country garden. Comprises a walled garden laid out as a series of rooms with wellstocked flower beds, two rare Ginkgo trees and yew topiary, leading to an informal garden with vegetable, herb and fruit areas, pleached limes and a lawn shaded by a copper beech tree. Home-made teas at Thakeham Place Farm. (Garden opens with Thakeham Place, with one admission price for both).

Thakeham Place Farm, Thakeham, RH20 3EP Wednesday 21 July, 2 - 5pm Taking advantage of its sunny position on free draining greensand on a dairy farm, the borders are full of plants and grasses, with a more formal area surrounding the farmhouse (not open). Has views across the farm to Warminghurst from the orchard.

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Nymans Gardens in Handcross (©Toby Phillips/AAH 2018)

PRE-SCHOOL LESSONS FROM NEWBORN BABIES TO 5 YEARS OLD AT LOWER BEEDING Y ONL

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CRASH COURSES THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS AT LOWER BEEDING AND WEST GRINSTEAD

AFTER SCHOOL LESSONS 7 DAYS A WEEK AT LOWER BEEDING AND WEST GRINSTEAD

Providing swimming lessons at our 2 pools in West Sussex Maximum of 6 pupils in each class All ages and abilities catered for Fully qualified and experienced swimming teachers Progressive, fun filled lessons Improving confidence, strength, stamina and ability Covid-19 sanitisation and social distancing in place *HSS \Z [V IVVR `V\Y ÄYZ[ SLZZVU VU 01444 474573 @Swim1001 VY LTHPS info@thesussexswimschool.co.uk ^^^ [OLZ\ZZL_Z^PTZJOVVS JV \R

Champs Hill, Coldwaltham, RH20 1LY Sunday 15 August, 2 - 5pm The garden has been developed around three disused sand quarries, with far-reaching views across the Amberley Wildbrooks. A woodland walk in spring leads past beautiful sculptures, against a backdrop of colourful rhododendrons and azaleas. In summer, the garden is a colourful tapestry of heathers. Admission £5.

Cloud Cottage & Hollyoaks, Ashington, RH20 3LW Sunday 15 August, 2 - 5pm At the front of Cloud Cottage is a sycamore with shade-loving plants. The rear garden is divided into a variety of areas. At Hollyoaks is a cottage-style garden with specimen trees, borders with shrubs, perennials, climbing roses, clematis and in late summer dahlias and fuchsias. Home-made teas at Cloud Cottage.

Durrance Manor, Shipley, RH13 8PE Monday 30 August, 12 - 6pm This beautiful 2-acre garden surrounds a medieval hall house (not open) with Horsham Stone roof. It enjoys uninterrupted views of the South Downs and

Chanctonbury Ring. There are many different gardens including a Japanese-inspired garden, wildflower meadow and orchard, colourful long borders and a Monet-style bridge over a pond with waterlilies.

Refreshments in aid of St Mary's Church, Shipley.

Grovelands, Wineham, Henfield, BN5 9AW Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 September, 10.30am – 3.30pm A South Downs view welcomes visitors to this rural garden.

Created and developed by local landscape designer Sue McLaughlin and the owners, it’s designed to delight throughout the seasons. Features include mixed borders, mature shrubs and an orchard, vegetable garden with greenhouse, cutting flower area and pond hide behind a tall clipped hornbeam hedge.

Sussex Prairies, Wheatsheaf Road, Henfield, BN5 9AT Sunday 12 September, 1 - 5pm Exciting prairie garden planted in the naturalistic style, using 60,000 plants and over 1,600 varieties. Expect layers of colour, texture and architectural splendour in an eight-acre garden with a permanent sculpture collection and exhibited sculpture throughout the season. A new tropical entrance garden was planted in 2018.

Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB Saturday 25 September, 10am – 5pm One of the National Trust’s premier gardens, Nymans has rare and unusual plant collections of national significance. In autumn, enjoy dramatic shows of native tree colour in adjoining woodland, with opportunities to spot wildlife. The comfortable yet elegant house (a partial ruin) reflects the personalities of the creative Messel family.

Further information: For admission prices, booking details and refreshments for each venue, visit www.ngs.org.uk NationalGardenScheme NGSOpenGardens Photos: Alan Wright/ Toby Phillips Photography

REQUEST A FREE BROCHURE coaches@roadmarktravel.co.uk www.roadmarktravel.co.uk 01903 741233

Roadm ark is back on th e road!

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Galloway Forest Park

A SELECTION OF OUR DOOR-TO-DOOR* HOLIDAYS FOR SUMMER 2021 A LANCASHIRE HOTPOT 11 July Hear tales of witchcraft and intrigue in Lancashire Hill Country. Includes the dramatic scenery of the Ribble Valley, a visit to Hawes in Wensleydale, the East Lancashire Steam Railway, a guided tour of Samlesbury Hall, and a cruise on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

MURDER MYSTERY IN THE COTSWOLDS 25 July The historic Manor Hotel near Oxford, with its medieval Barons Hall and Minstrel’s Gallery, provides the perfect setting for an evening of entertainment, mayhem and intrigue. Includes time in Oxford and a Thames cruise.

MEANDERING THROUGH MID-WALES & THE BRECON BEACONS 29 August Based at the comfortable Metropole Hotel in the Victorian spa town of Llandrindod Wells, the holiday will take you to the Elan Valley (known as the Welsh Lake District), Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, the Red Kite Feeding Centre and Royal Welsh Crystal. You will also take a drive through the Cambrian Mountains for a steam train journey on one of the Great Little Trains of Wales.

OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY: SEPTEMBER 2022

SUNNY WEYMOUTH 2 August One of the UK’s top resorts, with golden sands, an elegant promenade, Georgian buildings and a colourful fishing harbour. Includes excursions to the Seaton Tramway, Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary and pretty Lulworth Cove.

IRELAND’S MAJESTIC RIVER SHANNON 21 August 5 nights at the four-star Lakeside Hotel on the banks of the Shannon overlooking Killaloe, a busy boating and fishing centre with narrow streets, old houses and shops. Included visits to the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, Foynes Flying Boat Museum, the mighty Cliffs of Moher and the Rock of Cashel.

Bavaria’s world-famous Passion Play will be held in 2022 and we have spaces available for our ten-day tour departing in September. The two-centre holiday combines the Bavarian Alps with the Black Forest, a land of lush meadows, pine clad hills, rushing rivers and traditional chocolate box villages.

THE RHINS OF GALLOWAY 4 September Explore this relatively unknown but incredibly beautiful region of Scotland’s West Coast.

Visit Logan Botanic Gardens, the picturepostcard harbour of Portpatrick, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Culzean Castle and take a scenic drive to the tip of the Mull of Galloway with its lighthouse and visitor centre.

GREEN SPAIN – CANTABRIA & THE PICOS DE EUROPA 8 October Cantabria in Northern Spain, has stunning countryside, charming fishing ports and spectacular coastline. Explore historic towns and villages, visit the beautiful Picos de Europa Mountains and a unique wildlife park We also have a varied programme of day trips with pick-up points in Horsham, Southwater, Washington, Ashington, Storrington, Pulborough, West Chiltington, Billingshurst and Dorking. * Most Roadmark holidays include door-todoor taxi service from selected postcodes

All payments to Roadmark are protected under our membership of Bonded Coach Holidays

46

SHOOTS OF SUC “We were thinking of business names and Fern & Flora felt right, as it sounds like two middle-aged women!” laughs Claire Cargill.

“We even pretend that those are our names sometimes!”

Claire and business partner Emma Bainbridge-Sutton established the company in September 2020, after the first lockdown. They hadn’t known each other long, having met while studying for RHS qualifications in horticulture. Yet having bonded over a shared love of plants and yoga, the duo decided to set up their own garden design business.

Business Focus

Fern & Flora ‘We discovered that we like similar things and agree on nearly everything when it comes to garden design,” says Emma.

“Sometimes, we’ll be looking at ideas separately, flicking through magazines or browsing the internet for inspiration, and when we meet up to discuss a project we find we’re thinking on the same lines.”

Different Roots Emma and Claire have taken different paths to their shared business venture. Claire’s background is in law enforcement, having worked for the Metropolitan Police Service’s Serious Organised Crime Agency.

Claire says, “I also went to Trinidad and helped to establish an analytical department for an anti-crime unit in the country, before returning home and working for the National Crime Agency. After having a child, I wanted to do something different.

I’ve seen bad things through work and reached an age where I needed a change.

TTry r our o Award-Winning ou A Aw Awa Awar Award AwardAward-W Award-Wi Award-Win Award-Winn Award-Winni Award-Winnin Britis Briti Bri B Br Qual Quali Brit Qua Qualit QualityQuality-A Qu British Quality Quality-As Quality-Assu Quality-Assur Q Quality-Assure Quality-Ass Quality-Assured Por Po P Pork “At Bangers Galore, we are passionate about our sausages and hope that you enjoy eating them as much as we enjoy making them! We are always on hand to give you some inspiration and advice .” David Bell Find us at the Horsham Local Produce Market every Saturday

CCESS I’ve always loved plants and have volunteered at Nymans, a National Trust garden in Handcross, for five years. I've learnt so much from the gardeners there. They’re so knowledgeable and to benefit from their expertise has been amazing. Volunteering at Nymans is what inspired me to attend the RHS course in the first place.”

It was there that Claire met Emma, who had been to art school before working in textile design. Emma has also been a colour forecaster, which helps her now when she selects plants and flowers. “Twice a year, designers would come together and present ideas on colour trends,” says Emma. “We were always looking two seasons in advance and

Our regular flavours include: Traditional Pork Cumberland Pork & Apple Chorizo Style Pork & Leek Pork, Garlic & Herb

Look Out for our Flavour of the Month!

OUR RANGE OF MEAT At Horsham Market, we are now offering fine beef, lamb, pork and poultry. We’ll also be suppling retailers, caterers, pubs and restaurants.

We offer a free local delivery service, subject to a minimum order, or an order and collect service. Free Parking!

Sausages worth bangin’ on about!

(01403) 262233 bangersgalore.co.uk info@bangersgalore.co.uk Unit 10 Blatchford Close, Horsham, RH13 5RG

47

offering opinions as to what colours would be popular. For a wide range of industries – not just fashion and textiles – this is important.”

“People often say that I should be an interior designer, but I’ve always loved gardening. There’s something about the idea of seeing plants grow and bloom that fascinates me. So, that’s the passion I pursued. I didn’t think it was right to start a garden design business without knowing more about plants, so, I took the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance. It was quite intense! I ended up sitting next to Claire and when it ended, we both had the same idea about what to do next.”

“Another advantage we have is that we’re a bit older. With age, you think practically about the little things!

Mood Boards 48

Claire is now studying for the next level of qualifications while continuing to grow the business, where a combination of skills and enthusiasm has helped Fern & Flora gain a foothold during challenging times.

They work on gardens of all sizes, from tiny plots where every inch matters to landscaped gardens that include water features or even lawn badminton!

Claire Cargill at Leonardslee Gardens

MARTYN EDWARDS

www.alfrescofires.co.uk 07788 974288

With people stuck at home during the lockdown, some chose to invest in their home and garden, especially as an attractive garden is thought to add around 10% to the value of a property. “We work closely with clients to understand exactly what it is they’re looking for,” says Emma.

A suburban escape designed by Fern & Flora in Horsham

“Some clients have no idea what they want and we create a mood board and use visuals to build a picture of what they’re after. Others have a wedge of ideas! One of the joys of the job is that every garden is different.”

Claire adds, “One of the most exciting aspects of working with plants is the variety. What one person perceives as traditional could be new to someone else. Dahlias are coming to the fore, whereas when I was young nobody wanted them. Because of the internet and gardening programmes, there are many avenues for ideas and thanks to specialist nurseries some kinds of exotic plants are becoming more accessible, so there’s a world of possibilities.”

“However, we have heard about people spending too much on the labour costs of garden design. Plants alone can be very expensive, particularly large or rare varieties, and when you add in the costs for water features or rockeries, the budget can be eaten up quickly. But we’re very fair and open with our clients,

as we’ve heard too many bad experiences. We consider the budget carefully and explore ways to create the vision they want, at the best price.”

“Another advantage we have is that we’re a bit older. With age, you think practically about those little things that annoy you. Like leaving a clear path so you can put the bins out, or considering children and pets that use the garden. These are the small but important details that we hope will help us stand out from the competition.”

Further information: To find out more about Fern & Flora’s services visit www.fernandflora.co.uk fernandfloradesign Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright AAH would like to thank Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens for allowing us to use their beautiful Rock Garden for the photoshoot with Fern & Flora

Emma Bainbridge-Sutton at Leonardslee Gardens

Ascot Care, 6 Kings Court, Harwood Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 5UR

www.ascotcare.com l 01403 218511

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50

MYSTIC JUN Business promotes wellbeing through a passion for plants Kasia Rampersad attributes her positive outlook on life to the abundance of plants at her Southwater home.

Through her business, Mystic Jungle, Kasia offers a range of house plants, both online and from a stall at Horsham Market. As well as sourcing rare and unusual specimens to customers, the mum-of-two shares thoughts on the benefits of plants to people’s wellbeing. Here, Kasia explains her journey in her own words…

Self Discovery Five years ago, I wasn’t the person I am today. I was shy, insecure and lacked the confidence to speak to strangers. Since then, I’ve been on a journey of self-discovery that has changed my life.

I attended alternative therapy sessions run

by The Journey, focusing on emotional healing and life transformation. It was a way of asking myself what I wanted to achieve and removing mental blocks. I think many people struggle in a similar way. They work hard for their family, always doing things for others, but not themselves.

I grew up in Poland and was surrounded by plants. My parents and grandparents loved gardening and grew vegetables in their own allotment. As a child, I loved being outdoors.

Yet I found myself living in a house with just handful of plants that were in poor health.

During a meditative therapy session at home, I had a vision where I was running my own plant shop. I pictured myself surrounded by beautiful green plants with a dog by my side. I thought of the name Mystic Jungle and wrote it in my journal.

Since that day two and a half years ago, I’ve worked towards realising that vision.

During the winter, the business progressed.

People started buying my plants online, as they didn’t want to visit garden centres. I advertised on social media, interacting with customers locally and further afield, as I post nationwide. However, I prefer delivering in person and talking to people about plants.

With some customers, I’ve taken a selection directly to their home, to help them achieve their green vision.

Advice is a key aspect of the business.

Many plants suit certain conditions, depending on things like humidity and exposure to sunlight. So, I offer my expertise.

I don’t just sell a plant and that’s it! I want the plant to thrive! As well as selling online, I run a stall at Horsham Market, where I can spend time with customers and source plants to suit their lifestyle.

Unique Plants I try to offer plants that you won’t find in garden centres. When it comes to more common varieties, it’s hard to compete with major retailers on price. So, I seek out plants that are stylish, contemporary or unusual. I specialise in larger plants too, with some trees being over two metres high. I also sell crystals, as I believe their healing energies can complement plants.

My customers tend to fall into two groups.

There are beginners looking to add colour to their home or office. And there are the crazy plant people who can’t help buying more!

Often, they know things I don’t, and I love how gardeners are happy to share their knowledge. They often come to me as I have plants they haven’t seen before.

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GLE It started at home. I gave my plants more attention and they thrived. I saw this a metaphor for my life and my mental health. As the plants grew, I too became more confident. So, I bought more plants, before launching Mystic Jungle as a business in June 2020. When a truck from Holland pulled up outside my house and delivered 600 plants, it was a wonderful feeling!

After undergoing emotional therapy myself, I trained to become an accredited therapist. It’s natural that having found an alternative therapy that worked for me after NHS treatments had failed, I would want to pass on my experiences. However, my true passion was for plants.

Email: info@restassuredpets.co.uk

www.restassuredpets.co.uk

Kasia offers rare and unusual plants at Mystic Jungle

I have sensed a change in people’s attitudes and understanding, relating to the link between wellbeing and caring for plants. Plants have beneficial qualities when it comes to mental health, both for women and men. Men shouldn’y forget that caring for plants can be a very masculine thing to do!

Having said that, I am serious about opening a specialist plant shop in Horsham in the near future. We have excellent garden centres and nurseries locally, but people go to them for many different things aside from plants. Also, the staff cannot always be attentive to the needs of customers in the way a small, independent shop can.

A house that’s full of plants looks wonderful. When I sit in my living room, I feel like my home is alive and there’s a pleasant aura. It feels like being outside and soothes the mind. Give plants love and attention, and they’ll give it back!

In London, there are plant shops where one room is like a jungle and the next like a desert, full of cacti. They’re wonderful places to explore and discover plants.

My dream is to replicate that in Horsham and add my own ideas.

There are places where people can go to seek help with their mental health and wellbeing.

That may be a GP or health centre. But why not a plant shop where you can talk to someone over a cup of coffee?

Committing everything to my vision for the business is easier said than done. I have a regular job too and although I would love to focus solely on Mystic Jungle, it’s a risk. There’s rent and bills to pay and as a single parent, I need to provide for my children. If I commit fully, the business may be driven by a fear of failing and I wouldn’t want that. It is growing because of my passion for plants and if I can continue like that, positive things will happen.

Words: Ben Morris Photos: Justyna Bulinska Further information: www.mysticjungle.co.uk mysticjungleshop mystic_jungle_

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Wellcross Grange Nursing Home www.wellcrossgrangenursinghome.com

Family run home providing high quality nursing, residential and respite care for the elderly Accepting admissions on a risk assessed basis.

Vaccine priority group

Wellcross Grange Nursing Home, Five Oaks Road, Horsham management@wellcrossgrangenursinghome.com * As at December 2020

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New Power Generation The Horsham company fuelling a greener future 55

It may not look that exciting, but a unique fuel cell developed by Ceres Power could play an important role in the fight against climate change.

Based at Viking House in Foundry Lane, Ceres are pioneers of unique technology that can be used to provide clean energy for homes, businesses and modes of transport, helping to accelerate a global transition from combustion technologies towards zero carbon, affordable energy.

With the world’s interest in fuel cell technology expected to grow, the value of Ceres Power has soared since it first floated on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in 2005. While continued investment has helped fund development, the high share price also brings added pressure from the City. However, Ceres has maintained the feel of a local business and only last month received the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise.

Michelle Traynor, Director of People at Ceres, says: “I live in Horsham and find working for a company tackling climate change hugely rewarding. Environmental issues that we face today are not going away and we are playing an important role in helping to preserve the planet for future generations.”

connection with what Ceres was trying to achieve and realised it was a once-in-alifetime opportunity.”

“I joined in January 2004, three months after Brian passed away. So, I never met him, but acolytes and academics who worked alongside him continued his work and we’ve been on that journey ever since.”

EARLY DAYS Ceres Power was founded in 2001, borne out of Imperial College London and initially based in Exhibition Road, Crawley. The business was headed by fuel cell pioneer, Professor Brian Steele. His idea was to make a fuel cell that could generate power from conventional fuels (like natural gas) and sustainable fuels (biogas, ethanol or hydrogen) using a cost-effective steel base. It is this unique concept that Ceres has spent 20 years perfecting.

Carl Matthews, Cell Manufacturing Engineering Lead at Ceres Power, has worked for the company for 17 years and recalls its early days. “There were only 20 people when I first joined. It was a heady mix of talent, most of whom had PhDs. I wasn’t one of them, but I felt a strong

Brian’s idea led to the development of the patented SteelCell (above and left). Most fuel cells use platinum as a base material, because it’s an ideal catalyst for the electrochemical reaction that separates hydrogen into protons and electrons.

However, platinum is a rare and expensive metal, and one of the reasons why fuel cells haven’t been considered a financiallyviable option for green energy in a world reliant on abundant, cheap fossil fuels.

But Brian believed he could use a cheaper material and still make it efficient.

“For many years, Brian thought he could make fuel cells on a steel base,” says Carl.

“People in the fuel cell industry said it couldn’t be done, as steel can’t cope with the temperatures involved. But by gaining a deeper understanding of the ceramic compounds and material characteristics, Brian achieved what others had deemed impossible.”

THE STEELCELL Core to the technology is how to use a widely used material ferritic steel - as a backbone on which a ceramic electrolyte could be printed, reducing the cost, the use of rare earths and the complexity of manufacturing. In Ceres’ case the ceramic electrolyte is cerium, inspiring the name of the company.

One fuel cell alone only generates enough to power a low energy lightbulb. But stack them together and 100 fuel cells might power a home, while even bigger stacks could power a car, business or even a block of flats.

Generating more power from each cells is a key focus for the engineers. Carl says, “I call the Horsham site the “Brains Trust” and our of its roles is to generate more power from a single cell. The more energy you generate from a cell the better, as it’s all about lowering the cost, in terms of dollars per kilowatt, and making affordable and efficient energy.”

This “stack” shows how fuel cells can be placed together to generate more power

“In my time here, advances in fuel cell power has been huge. The Apollo space missions used fuel cells, so the technology is nothing new, but the evolution has been in power density, with less architecture and lower costs.

“In simple terms, a fuel cell is a single-sided 2-dimensional device.

It hasn’t changed much in terms of its basic chemistry, but the innovation has been what happens around it. Over the course of 20 years, it’s been a matter of evolution rather than revolution.

The next revolution for us is in generating hydrogen.”

Carl Matthews has seen many changes during 17 years at Ceres Power

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REVERSE A FUEL CELL A promising new application for Ceres' solid oxide technology is in the development of solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC). Essentially, this reverses the operation of fuel cells to produce hydrogen from electricity, which can produce green hydrogen when using renewable energy.

The cleanest energy source (in terms of its natural abundance, anyway) is hydrogen, as its only by-product is distilled water. However, hydrogen cannot be found naturally in a pure state, so therefore needs to be produced in other ways. One way is electrolysis, which separates the molecule H2O into oxygen and hydrogen.

Not everyone is convinced by the hydrogen economy though. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has labelled fuel cell cars “mindbogglingly stupid.”

“In the automotive world, people are hedging their bets on different outcomes,” says Carl. “Companies like Tesla back pure EV (plug-in electric vehicles) which essentially are battery-powered, while others are developing fuel cell technology, with Toyota being a trailblazer. Then you have those investing in a hybrid of the two. It’s fair to say that not one will dominate and they’ll eventually be complementary.”

As for Ceres’ technology, SOEC is the most efficient class of electrolyser technology, with the potential to produce clean hydrogen at greater than 90% efficiency when coupled with waste heat and steam. It is not targeting car refuelling, instead focusing on industrial processes, like steel and ammonia production.

Early testing on the application of the technology in SOEC has delivered encouraging results.

Did You Know?

The first fuel cell road vehicle was the Chevrolet Electrovan, developed by General Motors in 1966. It only had two seats as the fuel cell stack and hydrogen tanks took up so much space!

Ceres Power is working with global partners on energy solutions

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Changing Direction That may be the future, but in the present, Ceres Power is expanding with a new approach that sees it working on innovative ideas with global partners.

Phil Caldwell was appointed Chief Executive in 2013. Under his leadership Ceres has grown into a world-class clean energy technology business, and the switch in focus is bearing fruit.

Carl says: “Previously, we had been looking at our products and thinking ‘how do we turn this into a boiler to power a home?’ We wanted to control the whole process to protect our trade secrets. Now, we work with businesses who have their own ideas but need our knowledge and expertise to realise the potential of the technology. Our whole business model has changed.”

“It still feels like family.

A highly intelligent and at times quite a challenging family, but a family nonetheless!”

Carl Matthews 58

Carl Matthews calls the Horsham site the “Brains Trust”

“Our value is now taken from our innovation. I don’t even view us as a fuel cell company anymore. We’re currently about solving problems relating to energy generation. Phil has been instrumental in establishing partnerships with global engineering and technology players such as Bosch in Germany, Weichai in China and Doosan in South Korea, to meet the urgency for low carbon power systems in industry, data centres, transportation and everyday living.”

Bosch recently announced £1billion of investment in fuel cell development and has acquired a stake in Ceres Power too.

One of its key aims is to make Cloud storage data centres environmentally friendly.

“There’s increasing demand on data servers and they consume power at an unbelievable rate,” said Carl. “The architecture of running these servers requires high consumption of energy, but you also need to keep them cool, which uses up even more power. Bosch are working on the development of new data servers which are more efficient because of fuel cell technology.”

“There is endless potential for us to grow, from powering residential properties to major businesses and transport. We are exploring revenues in the marine sector, as ships are not “clean” ways of transporting goods.

There are fuel cell companies exploring aviation uses too, to create greener travel. We’re also seeing the emergence of e-fuels, which will influence every sector of the energy industry in future.

The sky’s the limit!”

“During my time here, I’ve seen huge change. There have been ups and downs, particularly the tough market conditions of 2008, and a lot of restructuring along the way. From a small team, we have grown to a company with over 300 employees, with a second site near Redhill in addition to this one in Horsham. However, it still feels like family. A highly intelligent and at times quite a challenging family, but a family nonetheless! I can still walk into the CEO’s office or pop down and chat to the engineers on the shop floor.

I’ve no doubt we can maintain that feel as we move forward.”

The creation of fuel stacks is still largely carried out by hand

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Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright/Ceres Power Further information: For videos on technology and job opportunities, visit www.ceres.tech CeresPower

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Further Reading...

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2014

Thermco Systems, a division of Tetreon Technologies Limited, is a Washingtonbased business that manufactures equipment for industrial solar panels. www.thermcosystems.com

Hearing Electronics Ltd in Horsham manufactures specialist earpieces for communication. Its ustomers include leading TV presenters and F1 drivers! www.hearingelectronics.com

Wide range of Diggers, Dumpers, Rollers, Cherry Pickers, Generators, Chippers and much more available at your local Plant & Tool Hire specialists.

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MAKE AN ENTRANCE Partridge Green firm forges perfect driveway gates Creative Metal Design Ltd is an independent business based in Partridge Green, specialising in making traditional and contemporary driveway gates.

Owned by Karlis Elmanis, the business has established a great reputation for bespoke gates, made-to-measure railings, balustrades and unique metalwork projects.

AAH met Karlis to find out more…

Where does your passion stem from?

I grew up in Latvia, where my grandad was a blacksmith. He had a smallholding with a forge and metal workshop, so it was always in the family. I went to university to study Construction Engineering, but even though I admired the architectural aspects of the course, my heart was in metalworking. So, I decided to embark on a new life in England and establish my own business.

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Why not Latvia?

Latvia is a beautiful country, but it’s difficult to set up a legitimate business and attract new clients. Also, I didn’t want to step on my uncle’s toes, as he is in the same trade with an established reputation. Once I had made my decision, things happened very quickly, as I left university, flew to England and signed up for an employment agency in the space of a week.

Presumably, you couldn’t start your own business immediately?

It was always my intention to be my own boss, but first I had to learn about the industry and understand the market. I got a job with a specialist gates and railings company in another county, but I felt that they were cutting corners. There is a cost difference between 16mm bar railings and 12mm bars, which do not look quite as good.

But the extra cost is only a small fraction of the overall cost. So, I always thought that when I started my own business, I would focus on quality and wouldn’t cut corners.

When did you launch the business?

A client offered me a small unit on his farm and it was enough for me to start. I bought essential tools and materials, a welder, grinder, gloves, welding mask, and that was enough! I was fortunate in that I secured a good job from someone who would become a regular client. I spent countless hours on creating the main entrance gates for their home and have since returned with other

Karlis Elmanis makes bespoke driveway entrance gates

The team fabricate made-to-measure driveway entrance gates...

...and iron railings for gardens

Timber cladding can help reduce road traffic noise and provide privacy

The team at Creative Metal Design Ltd in Partridge Green

work. I’ve also installed gates for two of his neighbours! In eight years, the business has grown from me being self-employed to a limited company with three permanent staff.

We’ve moved to a larger unit in Partridge Green and I have two full-time fabricators and installers working alongside me, Rhys and Ryan, as well as our Office Administrator Sarah, and Dan, who comes here once a week while he attends a blacksmith’s course at Plumpton College.

What makes your service different?

We have experience, knowledge and give attention to detail, handling every aspect of a project from start to finish. We start with the client’s design idea and security requirements, using it in scaled drawings to illustrate our vision for the property with already integrated, market leading automation system at the planning stage.

We deal with all safety and security elements, as well as the construction and installation of the gates. Not many companies do that.

What materials do you use?

Timber clad gates work brilliantly with steel.

It can reduce the risk of potential hazards too, such as people getting hands caught between the bars of a sliding gate. We clad them in Siberian larch softwood, which is very durable and leaves a fresh finish with excellent weather protection, or hardwoods like Balau, which is dense and very durable.

By choosing steel frame construction with timber cladding, clients will benefit from a stable and strong gate structure, with privacy and the warmth of a well finished and durable cladding.

“We take great pride in getting every job right, to ensure that our installations will still look good in 20 years’ time.”

How important is security?

It’s vital for peace of mind, especially for the elderly or those with rural properties. One client came to us recently as they’d come home to find somebody on their driveway, keeping watch while an accomplice tried to break in around the back. So, security is key but we ensure gates look stylish too.

Normally they are electrically operated, with a keypad and intercom system, so clients have full control. Magnetic locks can be added too, which make gates even more secure. As we design every aspect of the gates, they are visually attractive too, as the security elements are not bolted on after installation by a third-party.

You do jobs aside from electric gates too?

We supply railings and balustrades. Our garden balustrades have a lighter visual appearance, with attractive decorative bars that complement a garden. We also restore railings and have several clients on the coast with railings that have been badly affected by the sea air. But it’s the electric gates that really get the creative juices! We take great pride in getting every job right, to ensure that our installations will still look good in 20 years’ time.

Timber clad steel framed gates are visually appealing

Stylish designs help enhance a home and increase security

Karlis offers a range of different designs to his customers

Security features are incorporated during the installation

Tel: 01403 710 888 Mobile: 07542 024681 Email: creativemetaldesign@gmail.com www.sussexgatesandrailings.co.uk creativemet0500/ creativemetaldesigns

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SIGN OF THE TIMES Warnham-based Kangarooz brightens up businesses There are not many jobs that involve working with heavy metal superstars one day and theme parks the next. But it’s precisely this variation that keeps Kangarooz at the pinnacle of creative visuals.

The Warnham-based company, run by Roo Ball, specialises in graphic displays, signage and high quality prints, creating visuals that may even be familiar to readers.

As well as producing displays for local businesses, schools and organisations (including a Christ’s Hospital School promotion at Gatwick Airport Rail Station, visuals around Piries Place and more recently at The Rec), Kangarooz has a well-established partnership with theme parks too. At Chessington World of Adventures, Roo has made visuals for rides and attractions, and re-imagined the look of cafes and dining areas.

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Roo’s work for a car park at Chessington World of Adventures

Roo said: “Before the first lockdown, we were transforming a café at Chessington into a castle-themed area, as part of a project for Now TV. It was great fun recreating stone walls draped with ivy and adding visual touches like a dinosaur peeking through the window and shields on chairs. Sadly, it was just sat there waiting for visitors for a long time!”

“That's what I love about the job. Every day is different and while we offer basic stickers and banners too, it can be a very creative occupation. We’re different to other businesses in the signage industry as we tend to take on more bespoke creative work, which might involve timber frames for structures incorporating visuals from some of the leading design agencies.”

Roo Ball at Kangarooz. He’s not Australian! (©Alan Wright/AAH)

Regular visitors to Chessington may recognise this Tomb Blaster attraction

EARLY EXPOSURE Kangarooz was founded in January 2013, but despite the name and logo has no affiliation with Australia. Instead, the branding is inspired by the owner’s nickname, short for Rupert.

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As a boy, Roo was interested in photography and during school holidays would spend time at his father’s workplace, in the art studio of a London publishing

company. Seeing skilled craftsmen working on layouts by hand - before the dawn of computers - proved a great inspiration.

Roo worked for the BBC at Television Centre in the late 1980s, as a black-and-white photographic technician. His dream of being a photographer went unfilled. However, his experience led to a job printing for exhibitions and displays. The labour-intensive process of

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Kangarooz decorated a castle-themed cafe too, in partnership with Now TV

“bleach–etch–dye”, where parts of a print would be exposed to create visuals, would stand him in good stead.

When the company folded, Roo was made redundant, having spent more than 20 years in a photographic lab. So, with the support and encouragement of his family, he made a leap of faith and set up Kangarooz.

He attracted businesses already familiar with his work, with

Cadbury World being his first client. The business grew through word-of-mouth and 2020 was set to be the company’s most successful year to date until Covid hit.

Roo said: “Thanks to computers and photographic software, it’s easy to print and manipulate images, create displays and print them on to relevant materials. But being part of the revolution from photographic printing to computers gave me

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Informative visuals are commonplace in schools. Roo created this for Thomas Bennett Community College in Crawley

How first time buyers can secure a mortgage A recent study by Aldermore Bank showed that first time buyers are more likely to be rejected for a mortgage than they were a year ago. Unfortunately, more than two in five said that they had been rejected more than once. This compares with fewer than one in five before the pandemic.

Displays add vibrancy to a workplace

a knowledge of colour and exposure that is difficult to obtain nowadays. I believe that experience continues to inform my work and benefits the visuals we create.”

“Because of that knowledge, I like to keep in control of our output as ideas can easily get lost in translation and the concept for a visual can be lost.

That’s one of the benefits of having a small, experienced team.”

Advertising visuals for buses

wasn’t being produced in great volume as factories shut down.”

“We made about 1,000 floor stickers for two-metre distancing, which was mindnumbing work but helped keep us ticking over. More excitingly, we recently worked with rock band Iron Maiden and photographer John McMurtrie to create a series of limitededition prints from the band’s Legacy of the Beast tour.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE

‘First time buyers are more likely to be rejected for a mortgage than they were a year ago.’

In our experience, an oftenrepeated mistake is for first time buyers with any kind of complexity and/or poor credit to seek to obtain a mortgage via their bank first and this will more often than not result in a rejected application. This can lead to despair, desperation and sometimes shame and embarrassment, but brokers like ourselves are experienced in helping such customers.

Regrettably, the survey also highlighted that more significant credit issues are becoming more prevalent too with nearly a quarter (23%) having an account handled by collection agencies, one in nine (14%) having taken out a payday loan, 12% having a County Court Judgement (CCJs) and 9% having a bankruptcy in their past.

Like many businesses, Kangarooz has been impacted

by Covid, with staff having been placed on furlough. However, the pandemic created work of a different kind, with demand growing for visuals promoting social distancing and hygiene.

“Our biggest problem was getting hold of stock,” says Roo. “Every office and shop in the country was doing the same thing at the same time, and finding materials became a challenge. Floor laminates must meet industry standards, as there are legal requirements for products such as anti-slip flooring. Vinyl became like gold dust and prices inflated, as it

In the survey, the top reason for mortgage applications being rejected was due to having a poor credit history (41%) and over a quarter of prospective first-time buyers said that they were worried about their credit history with over a third currently seeking to improve their credit score.

These findings are being echoed in our day-to-day dealings with customers and it’s clear that the pandemic has impacted the finances of many, but that need not mean that they cannot obtain a mortgage.

“We worked with Iron Maiden and a photographer to create a series of limited-edition tour prints.”

By enlightening customers to the many options available, no matter what your circumstances, mortgage brokers can remove the supposed stigma and shame of having poor credit and help make your home ownership dreams a reality.

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SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Merlin Entertainments are a big client, with Kangarooz involved in several projects at Chessington.

“Our work for Merlin is varied,” says Roo. “They have two main hotels, so we might make small stickers for 300 bathrooms or help them reimagine a new ride. One job was to wrap a ride called Treetop Poppers. It’s a children’s attraction which takes five people up and down, but the structure is 10 metres tall and has an array of visual components. Such projects are very challenging, as they’re relying on you to come up with a concept.”

Roo uses modern printing methods to create large displays (©Alan Wright/AAH)

Wallpaper designs can work for homes or bedrooms, especially children’s rooms

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“One of our largest prints was at the Jorvik Viking Centre in York. We made the background for a Viking village around a 300m monorail ride, which was a real test.”

Graphic wallpaper displays can also liven up office environments or school corridors, with Kangarooz working with the likes of RSA and Trend. Recently, they also made a 10m display for the English department at Thomas Bennett Community College which highlighted poets and writers and proved an inspiration to pupils.

Roo said: “Wall art is becoming more common in homes too, particular kids’ bedrooms. With such great media at our disposal, varying from printed wallpaper to giant stickers that won’t damage walls, we can create awesome spaces and personalise a room.”

“The wallpaper we use is from 100% sustainable sources and comes off cleanly. As we move forward, everything is going to be greener and using the right materials is going to be more important in future.”

Words: Ben Morris Photos: Alan Wright/Roo Ball Further information: 01306 628191 studio@kangarooz.co.uk www.kangarooz.co.uk kangaroozLtd

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