AAH (All About Horsham) May 2019

MAY 2019

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COVER STORY

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

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

IN THIS

EDITION In addition to our regular News Round-up, we look back at Piazza Italia and visit Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens as it opens for the first time since 2010.

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

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

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

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

The AAH May 2019 cover shows Jean Jackman in the gardens of Bignor Park in Pulborough.

We visited Jean to discuss the Floral Fringe Fair, the event she has organised for several years. We initially planned to take the photo at Amberley Museum, where the fair is to be held in June. However, we visited Bignor Park as Jean’s husband Stephen Jackman runs clock restoration courses there. It was a case of ‘two birds, one stone’.

(The clocks feature will appear in a future edition).

Other cover contenders include a picture of one of the older riders in the scooter parade at Piazza Italia and images from Horsham Men’s Shed.

DOOR TO DOOR DISTRIBUTION Horsham: Jacquie Paterson, Dominic Goddard, Eshan Wakefield, The Judd family, The Rolling family, Tom Haylor, George Voisey, Mattie Boys, Katie Drysdale, George Williams, Edward Hitchings, Hazel Garner, Sam Uphill, Sam Lucas, Jill Shuker, Owen Bloomfield, The Arliss family, Charlotte Wellbelove Southwater: Connor Brown, William Britton Villages: Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Harry Kent (Ashington), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) Ben Morris (Stands) Connor Wykes (Partridge Green), Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale); The Palmer family & Amy Butler (BBH) James Hobbs (Thakeham), Callum Matthews (Storrington) PICK UP POINTS 4,000 more copies are available at businesses, clubs, organisations and community centres across the district.

AAH STANDS Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Artisan Patisserie (Market Square), Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Museum, Horsham Rail Station, Crates (Carfax) New House Farm, Swan Walk, The Capitol, New Street Butchers (New Street) At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club Village Stands: CoCo’s (Southwater); Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Coco’s (Billingshurst) Barns Green Village Store, The Bridge Leisure Centre, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee (Lower Beeding) LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies (£45 for A4 leaflets) SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us on Twitter @AAHMagazine and @tobyphillips1 NOTES Many thanks to Ed Hitchings, who has delivered AAH in Irwin Drive/ Old Guildford Rd since 2016. Sam Lucas steps in. Good luck Ed! Thanks also to the Pattenden family, who can no longer deliver to Lambs Farm Road. Sam Uphill picks up the reins...

In June, many of you will receive a leaflet for the Horsham Festival (designed by Ben) with your copy of AAH. We hope you can support some of the events listed in the programme.

Jean Jackman tells the story of the Floral Fringe Fair, this year taking place at Amberley Museum. We also visit Horsham Men’s Shed, which is keeping blokes of a certain age stay out of trouble!

Craft House Coffee in Henfield makes a beautiful brew, without a hipster in sight. Well, maybe one...

And read the entertaining story of Kevin Stass, who helped Branson and Fossett on their balloon adventures.

Horsham Amphibians show that age is no barrier when it comes to triathlon, whilst CoolCarCuffs makes the most of unwanted toys from the 90s. We also feature one of our great landmarks Chanctonbury Ring.

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

Toby Phillips (Photos) and Ben Morris (Words)

Notes from the Editor

Working to get Walruses their ice back!

When I think of environmental activists, I picture a young man with dreads, wearing a beaded necklace that was given to him by an old lady in an authentic hill tribe in Chiang Mai. “She lived in this like, mud hut, you know?

I took some pencils and crayons for all the kids and they were just like, so grateful.”

He is playing Redemption Song by Bob Marley on his acoustic guitar. A young woman in a loose-fitting linen shirt waves a peace flag as she dances on the grass nearby. Passers-by indulge them with a brief smile, knowing that it won’t be long before the young couple give up on their dream of travelling around the world in a Campervan, earning money by selling ceramic pots inspired by Aboriginal art and instead taking a job in IT. Maybe buying a Kia on finance...

But Extinction Rebellion has altered my time-honoured perception of environmentalists. They’re no longer hippies, prairie fairies, yoghurt knitters, tree huggers.

They are you and me. Normals!

The Daily Mail (naturally) reported that an activist interviewed on Sky TV had been on “numerous holidays abroad,” as if concern for the planet’s dwindling resources and threat to

wildlife was forbidden by anyone who’s ever travelled overseas. The paper also pointed out that this activist, Robert Boardman-Patterson, was a poet and had even been to private school. Seemingly, activists should be working class and should never have compared anyone to a summer’s day, let alone wandered lonely as a cloud.

But anyone hoping to brush the whole ‘planet in peril’ matter under the carpet, they were to be disappointed. Over a stunningly successful fortnight, ER orchestrated a string of high-profile protests, blocking the entrance to London Stock Exchange and stripping in the House of Commons. Then, an 83-year-old in a shirt and tie glued himself to the top of a Docklands Light Rail train, showing that 15-minutes of fame can arrive late and still define a lifetime.

Yet, for all the disruption it caused, ER carries a message that is broadly supported by all. As Linda on Channel 4’s Gogglebox so eloquently put it after watching walruses fall from the rocks on an episode of Our Planet: “There’s got to be something we can do to reverse this; so they can have ice again.”

Not only has Extinction Rebellion thrust climate change into the limelight - both socially and politically - it has properly

engaged the youth. Undercover orchestrator Sir David Attenborough has not only given his approval to pupils taking part in the ‘Fridays for Future’ strikes; he has silenced older cynics by drawing attention to the “terrible things” committed by his own generation.

For local groups like Sussex Green Living, Transition Horsham and Horsham Repair Café, the last month must have been exciting. Given cause for optimism. Soon, we may all consider the climate when it comes to which car to buy, which light bulbs to use, which shampoo we stick in the trolley, even where we go on holiday.

It is also good to hear that West Sussex County Council has vowed to continue its own efforts to tackle climate change and become carbon neutral as quickly as possible.

Whilst some of them may have been on holiday before, or bought water on a hot day in a single-use plastic bottle, or used a taxi to reach the march rather than public transport, or be a slightly irritating celebrity, the activists have collectively made a positive difference.

Maybe, just maybe, the hippies can offer us redemption!

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News & Events Across Horsham District

Warnham-based artist Lesley Taylor will be involved in the HAOS Art Trail

Photo: The White Brasserie

Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

The White Brasserie chain has announced plans to open a pub in part of the former Waitrose building in the town centre.

Its new pub/brasserie at 24D Carfax will be called The Red Deer and come complete with baronial style deco art and outdoor space. The White Brasserie promises “delicious, fresh, seasonal French fare and great British pub classics cooked from scratch.” The pub is currently hiring staff and plans to open in mid-June. https://reddeerhorsham.com

Photo: Rule the World

Horsham Artists Open Studios (HAOS) group hosts its annual Art Trail on 8 - 9 June and 15 - 16 June. Members of the public can tour the district, from Ashington to Warnham, as well as venues across Horsham town, enjoying the work of some of the best artists and makers in the area as they open their homes, studios, gardens and shared venues. Original work is priced for every pocket and is all made locally. Free entry. www.horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk

Now in its fourth year, The Big Gig returns to Horsham Sports Club with a mix of local and internationally acclaimed tribute acts on Saturday 22 June, at 1 - 10.30pm (performances from 2.30pm).

Rule the World, the No.1 Take That tribute band in the world, headline. Support comes from local band Joe90 (Britpop), Kieran as Ed Sheeran, A Tribute to Wham and The Blunter Brothers (Motown/Funk).

Advance tickets £20 (5-15 £10/U5s free) from https://thebiggig19.eventbrite.co.uk Visit the Facebook page at @biggighorsham

A topping out ceremony has been held at the new Kilnwood Vale Primary School in Calvert Link, Faygate.

The school, expected to open in September, includes playing fields, a wildlife area and multi-use games areas. It will initially open with one Reception class of 30 children alongside a nursery, but will ultimately provide places for more than 420 pupils.

Kilnwood Vale Primary is a free school, run by The GLF Schools (Grow, Learn & Flourish)

multi-academy trust. GLF Schools are working in partnership with Crest Nicholson, developer of the Kilnwood Vale estate, as well as West Sussex County Council and construction company Willmott Dixon.

The school is set back from the road to offer easy drop-off access and parking. Both the school and associated nursery are designed with the growing community in mind, with room to expand. www.kilnwoodvaleschool.org

Storrington has a new shop selling second-hand designer fashion from brands including Prada, YSL and Chanel. Abigail’s at 36 High Street is owned and run by Abi Chisman Murray, former editor-in-chief of Vogue.com. Visit the Facebook page at @AbigailStorrington

Images of the ‘Rose’ house style at Arun Fields (CALA Home)

The new Arun Fields development in the Holbrook area of Horsham is taking shape, with a Showroom and Reception now open.

Developed by CALA Homes, the collection of two, three and four bedroom semi-detached, detached and link-detached homes, is located two miles from the town centre, close to schools and Littlehaven Station.

Buyers can tour the development’s

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The Shipley Arts Festival continues with The Wilding Concert at Knepp Castle, West Grinstead, RH13 8LJ, on Sunday 9 June, at 5:30pm.

The Stradivarius Piano Trio and Roderick Williams OBE play a programme of music rooted in Sussex, at one of the great English country estates. Knepp has transformed its

Sarah Payne (Pictured in 2016)

Kingsfold builders’ merchant NYEs host a family fun day to celebrate its rebrand on Saturday 18 May, from 10am - 3pm.

The family-owned merchant, formerly D.W. Nye, has undergone a facelift, adding an additional 1000m2 to its warehouse and office facilities.

The event, ‘Have a NYEs Day’, will see Bob the Builder meeting guests.

Children can enjoy mini diggers and there will be bricklaying and nail-banging competitions. Free food and drink will be available including burgers, hot dogs, candyfloss, hot drinks and a NYEs beer from Surrey Hills Brewery. www.dwnye.co.uk

Cocoa Loco has announced the closure of its shop and café in Swan Walk, Horsham. Founder Sarah Payne said: “We would like to thank our customers for their friendship and support. We look forward to seeing you at events in the near future.” Cocoa Loco will continue to make organic and Fairtrade chocolate from its kitchen in West Grinstead. www.cocoaloco.com

natural environment, with its Wildland Project leading to the return of many rare species of butterflies and birds. The Wilding Concert music has been chosen to reflect this great achievement. Tickets £50.

A Concert for the Parish of Nuthurst and Monks Gate will be held at St Andrew’s

Church, Nuthurst, RH13 6LH on Sunday 30 June, at 6:30pm.

Performances include Pachelbel’s Canon and Mozart’s Concerto for Flute D Major KV 314.

Also being performed is To Notice Such Things, by Jon Lord (formerly of Deep Purple).

Tickets £21.50 from www.bmglive.com/shipley-arts-festival/

© Elizabeth Zeschin

Parham House is home to arguably the finest and most important collection of embroidery in the country. Its needlework display returns by popular demand on 22 May - 2 June, giving visitors an opportunity to discover the collection.

Royal School of Needlework tutor Chrissie Juno Mann presents an Embroidery Masterclass on Tuesday 28 May. www.parhaminsussex.co.uk Slinfold Open Gardens will be held on Sunday 2 June, 11am 5pm. Visitors can explore five gardens with features ranging from manicured designs to apple orchards.

Three gardens are in the village centre, with parking at the school along The Street.

Jean Griffin from BBC Radio’s ‘Dig It’ will be on hand to answer questions. Admission £5 (children free). For more information, call Louise Sims on (01403) 791045.

Professor Brian Cox has expressed support for the St Catherine’s Hospice HeART to Heart Trail, ahead of its public launch.

Brian met hospice staff as he admired the aptly-named My Universe heart, sponsored by Avensys Ltd. Designed by artist Johanna Paterson, My Universe replicates a literal universe with figurative meaning to highlight the enormity of love.

Brian said: “I love the concept of art bringing the community together for a worthy cause. I hope people will take the chance to get out on the trail this summer and grab a selfie with the hearts.”

The HeART to Heart Trail, sponsored

by Thakeham, will see a heart sculpture trail established across Sussex and Surrey. An interactive App and map will be available. www.stch.org.uk/hearttoheart Stooks Restaurant at Newbridge Nurseries, Broadbridge Heath, hosts a comedy dining night on Saturday 18 May, at 7pm, in aid of the HeART to Heart Trail. The evening consists of a three-course meal, raffle and comedy based on Fawlty Towers. Tickets £35 from (01403) 272686 (Opt 8) or from emma.law@ newbridgegardencentre.co.uk

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The Old Cement Works (Tim Haughton, Horsham Photographic Society)

Members of Horsham Photographic Society and Steyning Camera Club have combined for an exhibition at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery.

Superb images portraying the District’s cultural life are currently on display.

As so many photos were submitted, all the images will be changed on 24 May. The Captured by Light exhibition runs until 6 July. www.horshammuseum.org

Mary Rose (© Geoff Hunt ,PPRSMA)

The Friends of Horsham Museum & Art Gallery hosts a talk by Danny Banting from the Mary Rose Trust at the Methodist Church, Wesley Hall, London Road, Horsham, on Wednesday 12 June, at 7.30pm. Danny will tell the story of the Carew family and Sir George Carew, Vice Admiral and Captain of the Mary Rose in 1545.

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Bloodwise, the blood cancer research charity, presents an Open Garden Day at Warnham Park on Sunday 19 May, 12 - 4.30pm.

The park off Robin Hood Lane, is home to a world-famous herd of red deer. The informal garden was redesigned 12 years ago with a walled garden, woodland walk and vegetable garden adding to its interest. Soup and ploughman’s lunch, cream tea, cakes and plant stalls available.

Admission £5 (children free). Guide dogs only. Wheelchair access.

A pair of Chinese cloisonné enamelled figures of elephants, Jiaqing period (1796-1820), auctioned in November for £15,000

Shipley Village Fete takes place on Bank Holiday Monday 27 May, 11am 4pm. The fete includes children’s games, a butterfly trail, vintage cars, tombola, plants, books, bric-a-brac, crafts, dog stalls, petting area and a Teddy Tumble, all in aid of the church. Entry is free.

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Horsham hosted the 13th Piazza Italia festival over the Easter Bank Holiday, with thousands of visitors enjoying supercars, motorcycles, an Italian market, opera and street theatre.

Good Friday’s Horsham Churches Together bandstand service and Walk of Witness procession drew a large audience, before Italian supercars and classic Fiat 500s paraded through the town centre.

On Easter Monday, Premier GT of Washington organised a parade of over 120 luxury and performance cars including Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati models. They were joined by a large McLaren and Porsche contingent, Italian Job Minis and a Fiat 126 from Horsham Barbershop.

Many town businesses chose to take advantage of the additional footfall, with

Crates Local Produce, Carmela Deli, Paninos and The Horsham Cellar all offering something special. Brock Taylor hosted the Sporting Bears team, who fielded a selection of cars for charity ride-outs, raising £5,680 for Chestnut Tree House and The Children’s Trust.

Impact Specialist Finance sponsored the Departure Gate and Cote Brasserie presented the first of five Concours d’Elegance awards for best turned out vehicle. Easter Monday’s award went to the owner of an immaculate Ferrari 328GTS. Event organiser Horsham District Council wishes to thank all commercial and voluntary participants. Special thanks go to ETMS and SERV Sussex for the traffic management services they provided and event sponsors Kwik Fit, Premier GT, Bishops (part of FGB Barnes Group) and Bunny Motors.

UPCOMING EVENTS Broadwood Day of Dance Saturday 11 May Around 25 Morris sides, mostly local, will be dancing in and around the town centre. At 3pm, musicians and dancers converge at the Bandstand for The Ceilidh (Barn Dance). There is also a small display of classic Morris Minor cars on The Forum.

Horsham’s Great British Festival Day Sunday 12 May A celebration of British traditions featuring a concert organised by Horsham Folk Club and Horsham Samaritans, traction engines, medieval fun with Loxwood Joust and a classic British car display by SADCASE. Aston Martin and McLaren cars will also be present.

A Celebration of Caribbean Culture Sunday 19 May Explore the islands of the Caribbean with the assistance of experts from over a dozen islands, hotel and tour companies. Entertainment comes in the form of Steel Drum Music, Limbo Dancing, Salsa Cubano Dancing and The Marley Experience tribute band.

Plum Jam Sunday 26 May Plum Jam is a free to attend air-cooled Volkswagen show in Horsham. Visitors can also enjoy award-winning street food plus music and entertainment. www.horshamtimewellspent.co.uk

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The Run Wisborough 5km and 10km race is held on Sunday 19 May, at 10.30am.

Now in its fourth year, the event raises funds for local sports facilities. The 5km and 10km race is open to club runners and individuals of all abilities. There is also a ‘Colour Run’ for youngsters, with family games and attractions on the Village Green. Runners will be time-chipped, with prizes for the first finisher in every category. www.runwisborough.co.uk West Sussex County Council has pledged to do more to tackle climate change.

During a debate at Full Council, members heard about a range of environmental initiatives and committed to become carbon neutral as quickly as possible.

Deborah Urquhart, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “WSCC has already committed to halve its carbon footprint by 2022 compared to a decade earlier. Last year, we achieved a 17% reduction, a 45% reduction from the original baseline. We have invested in renewable energy and now have solar installations on a high number of our buildings and schools.” The County Council hopes to promote the same benefits to businesses and residents.

Award-winning war artist Gordon Rushmer has captured the beauty of ancient churches of West Sussex, with those in the Horsham District featuring prominently.

His detailed observations can be seen in an exhibition entitled Accents on the landscape: Ancient Churches of West Sussex, at Horsham Museum & Art Gallery until 1 June.

Gordon spent three years on his watercolour paintings, visiting churches including those in Cowfold, Itchingfield, Shipley, Buncton, Sullington, Hardham, Greatham and Amberley. A book has been published to coincide with the exhibition, using the voice

of the artist to reveal what drew him to these special places. www.horshammuseum.org

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Horsham District Age UK hosts a Craft & Gift Market at The Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham, on Saturday 18 May, 1 - 4pm.

There will be stalls from local sellers, games, entertainment from Kicks Dance Academy, learn-to-knit and craft-making workshops, as well as cream teas. For more information call (01403) 260560. www.ageukhorshamdistrict.org.uk

Ruari performs in front of Hugh Bonneville at CH (Toby Phillips Photography)

Ruari Finnegan from Faygate has landed a starring role in the awardwinning play Shadowlands at Chichester Festival Theatre.

Ruari, a Year 7 pupil at Christ’s Hospital, will be playing C.S. Lewis’s stepson Douglas, opposite Hugh Bonneville and Liz White, in William Nicholson’s muchloved work. The play runs from 26 April to 26 May, with Ruari acting in half of the eight performances per week.

This is not the first time Ruari has worked with Hugh Bonneville. Last November, Hugh gave a drama masterclass at Christ’s Hospital, in which Ruari was lucky enough to receive expert acting tips.

“I performed a monologue from Shakespeare’s Richard III, which was quite daunting,” recalls Ruari. “It was an amazing experience to get feedback and encouragement from a famous actor!”

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Horsham Painting Group hosts its spring exhibition and sale at the Quaker Meeting House, Worthing Road, Horsham, RH12 1SL, on Saturday 18 May from 10am - 4pm.

Original works by members of the group will be on sale. Admission is free and refreshments available. For further information call (01403) 257784.

The League of Friends of Horsham Hospital host its annual Summer Fete at the hospital on Hurst Road, Horsham, on Saturday 18 May, from 1 - 4pm. Sylvie Blackmore, host of the Radio Sussex Sunday Lunchtime show, opens the fete. There will also be children’s rides, live music, drinks and cakes. This year, the League of Friends celebrates its 60th anniversary.

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A new boutique festival called Jazz, Gin and Blues will be held at Loxwood Meadow on Sunday 18 August, from 12 - 9pm. An intimate crowd of 500 will enjoy a stellar line-up of jazz and blues artists including DJ Alan Milliner from Jazz Train, Harry Greene Quintet, Paz, Simon Bates Big Band and Tim Staffell & Paul Stewart. The festival features independent gin producers including Cabin Pressure Spirits and The Gin Kitchen, with real ale provided by Langham Brewery.

Tickets £20 from www.jazzginblues.co.uk

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The Capitol hosts the Horsham Comedy Gala for one night only on Friday 5 July, at 7.30pm. Hosted by Rich Wilson, comics including Milton Jones and Jen Brister will take to the stage.

The stand-up comedy of Jones, a regular on Mock the Week, is full of surrealism, puns and sharp wit. Brighton-based Brister is a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, writer and actor. She has supported many top comics, most recently Frankie Boyle, and appeared on Live at the Apollo. Wilson is one of the circuit’s leading comperes, winning over audiences with his impeccable timing.

Tickets £22 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Garden in Horsham Park one week later on 17 August. All heats and finals for this year’s even are free to enter. Covers heats are held at The Rec Rooms on Thursday 18 & 25 July, at 7pm, Originals heats are held at Horsham Sports Club on Friday 19 & 26 July, at 7pm. www.horshambotb.com

Hannah Aldridge, a singer/songwriter from Alabama, will be performing at Coolham Live Music Club at the Village Hall on Saturday 30 June. She will be accompanied by guitarist Gustav Sjodin, a founder member of Swedish rock band, Jetbone. Hannah will play material from her latest album, Gold Rush. There is no licenced bar, so feel free to bring refreshments.

Tickets £15 from coolhamtickets@gmail.com

Mermaids at Sussex Swim School

Battle of the Bands in 2006 (AAH)

Horsham Battle of the Bands competition, now in its 27th year, returns to the Carfax bandstand on Saturday 10 August, when the popular Acoustic Final is held there.

In keeping with recent years, the Covers and Original Bands finals will take place on the festival stage in the Human Nature

The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company return to Dial Post Village Green on Thursday 6 June. The Rudes perform a revival of Ikarus Inc, a play about hopes and dreams set in the town of Dreamville, Indiana, in the 1950s.

Travelling salesman Daedalus H. Gildersleeves and his son Ikarus sell dreams from a suitcase.

Meanwhile, the ladies of the Buffalos Club enter a competition to make the biggest pumpkin pie. Bring a picnic and chair and enjoy a day of outdoor theatre. Tickets £17 from Pauline on (01403) 710908 or www.therudemechanicaltheatre.co.uk

Correction: In our Editorial article on the Sussex Swim School in April’s AAH, the wrong telephone number was published on Page 66. The correct number is (01444) 474573. AAH apologises for the error.

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BACK IN BLOOM

THE GLORIOUS REVIVAL OF LEONARDSLEE LAKES & GARDENS Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens opened to the public on Saturday 6 April, for the first time in nearly a decade.

It follows two years of extensive work on the Grade I listed gardens and estate buildings by Penny Streeter OBE. Penny is the owner of the Benguela Collection vineyard and hospitality group, which also operates Mannings Heath Golf Course and Wine Estate.

“We are delighted to welcome visitors back to Leonardslee,” said Penny. “People can enjoy the finest woodland gardens in England, with a stunning collection of plants from all over the world, nurtured and tended to for nearly 200 years.”

Keeping Secrets Since it was closed to the public in 2010, when the Loder family sold the gardens, there has been growing public interest in the 240-acre estate, famed for its displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolias

and bluebells, collected from around the world since the early 1800s.

Head gardener Ray Abraham and his team have been working at Leonardslee since the summer of 2017, carrying out essential clearance and rebuilding work and cataloguing some 10,000 trees and plants.

Ray said: “As we approached opening day, we had recorded 95 Champion trees, including a specimen of the critically endangered Abies Nebrodensis (Sicilian Fir). There are hybrid rhododendrons that only exist in a handful of gardens in the world and I have found one variety that was thought to have disappeared entirely. It was an astonishing discovery, although I’m keeping its location a secret for now!”

“We unearthed two wells on the main lawn and another in the Camellia Garden which pre-date the Manor House. They’ve been dug by hand into the bed rock.

They each have different depths to ensure that the estate never ran out of water. We suspect that

An artificial tree and water feature outside the Italianate Mansion

another well, maybe 100ft deep, is still waiting to be found. It may be that we’re yet to discover all of Leonardslee’s secrets.”

Italianate Mansion For the first time since 1984, visitors to Leonardslee can go inside the Grade II listed, 19th century Italianate mansion, which was sold by the Loder family long before the gardens.

Having been updated, it is open for Leonardslee Afternoon Tea and also hosts Restaurant Interlude, where chef Jean Delport is creating stunning dishes. Some of the produce is foraged or raised on the estate.

The renowned Dolls’ House Museum, featuring a village and its community in the Edwardian era to 1/12 scale, remains a popular feature. Originally created

by Helen Holland in 1998, it has been restored in recent months.

Visitors can also enjoy the famous Ornamental Rock Garden and colony of wallabies, whilst a new feature will be the planting of an Australia Garden.

“Levelling the ground and fitting 80,000 grid blocks in the car park was a laborious task!”

Australia Garden The Australia Garden has been designed by John Wright, a writer and landscape architect who lived in Australia and worked as Development Officer for the University of Tasmania.

The new Reception area at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens

John’s selection of plants results from years of research into the suitability of Australian plants for British gardens all year round. He has chosen plants that grow wild in Australia’s coldest areas, including low-growing Snow Gums Eucalyptus debeuzevillei and Eucalyptus niphophila from New South Wales’ mountains and Tasmania’s cool rainforests, which John hopes will be hardy enough for British winters.

A wide variety of plants are now offered

past at Petworth

.

Visit Petworth House and Park and take centre stage amongst the extraordinary interiors and art. Uncover 900 years of history and follow in the footsteps of landscape artist J.M.W. Turner.

These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth

© National Trust 2019 . Registered charity, No. 205846. © National Trust Images \Arnhel de Serra

Take a step into the

Ray Abraham at work in the Ornamental Rock Garden

“When we first came here, it was like Jurassic Park, in that parts of the garden were completely overgrown.�

become clogged with weeds and algae. Huge plumes of thistle seed had grown wildly out of control and a Mexican fan palm had made a bid for freedom and broken through the greenhouse roof.�

The theme for the garden is Australian bushland, featuring eucalyptus trees, ferns (Dicksonia antarctica), tufted perennial herbs like Dianella tasmanica (Blue Flax Lily or Tasmanian Flax Lily) and Diplarrena moraea (Butterfly Flag or White Flag Iris) and grasses (Poa labillardieri).

“We have many more ideas for the future, but it’ll take time to realise the vision we have for Leonardslee.�

“Every aspect of the lakes, gardens and buildings needed work and we needed to create a car park too. Levelling the ground and fitting 80,000 grid blocks was a laborious task!�

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

Jurassic Park For General Manager Adam Streeter, there is still much to be done, despite a successful re-launch.

One of the new cafĂŠ and dining areas at Leonardslee

“When we first came here, it was like Jurassic Park, in that parts of the garden were completely overgrown and the lakes had

For more details on opening dates and special events, visit www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

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Jean Jackman, creator of The Floral Fringe Fair (Toby Phillips Photography)

QUIRKS OF THE The seventh annual Floral Fringe Fair will be held at Amberley Museum in June.

The fair’s founder, Jean Jackman, explains how the popular event has grown...

Much of my working life was spent in horticulture. After college, I took a job picking weeds at a nursery owned by Bernard J. Newman in Nightingale Road, Horsham. I learned a lot there and discovered that I loved helping people choose plants for their home and garden.

My knowledge grew when I became a plant buyer, whilst also writing for Practical Gardening magazine and opening my own garden as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS).

Me and my husband spent 20 years selling plants at fairs across the south of England, always enjoying the camaraderie amongst stallholders. I was always different in terms of what I offered, preferring to grow wild flowers and plants that attracted insects and small mammals. But wild gardening wasn’t fashionable back in 2000, so few people came to my stall.

At many fairs I attended, there were stallholders selling plants they hadn’t grown and nurtured themselves. Consequently, they

didn’t have the passion I had.

Many of the food stalls also tended to be uninspiring. As someone who loves cooking, I felt I could offer something better.

One day, I was asked to help organise a plant fair. I loved it so much that it inspired me to start my own. After celebrating my 60th birthday, I decided to put my money where my mouth was; The Floral Fringe Fair was born!

From the outset, running the fair for profit was not a concern. So, I approached people who were as passionate as me when it came to plants, crafts or produce. But the experience of organising a fair was a massive learning curve.

By the time I had hired a venue and marquee, toilets, security, First Aid, refuse collection, sorted advertising and paid staff and

insurance, I was faced with a £28,000 bill. However, I loved it and still do eight years later.

When I started the Floral Fringe Fair, specialist plant nurseries were the most important ingredient. We offered something completely different.

Through word of mouth and positive feedback on social media, the event went from strength to strength.

I still love the networking and organising side of the show, meeting new stallholders and developing fresh aspects of the fair. Today, it is a quirky, friendly, eclectic event with over 100 stalls including Artisan food, a pop-up vintage cafe, artists, craftspeople, wildlife stalls, classic cars and music.

The Floral Fringe Fair attracts a range of specialist food and plant stalls (Photo: Louise Adams)

E FAIR

“Today, the fair is a quirky, friendly, eclectic event with over 100 stalls including Artisan food, a pop-up vintage cafe, artists and classic cars.”

I have become increasingly interested in classic cars. I recently tracked down a Sunbeam Alpine once owned by my father and have had it sign-written in a retro font, with details of the fair.

Another passion is in the creative art of Steampunk. I appreciate it when people make the effort to dress up in vintage outfits for the fair, even if they’re just wearing a nice hat!

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Jean with a classic car that she’ll be driving to the Floral Fringe Fair

Floral Fringe Fair’s followers are very supportive. They are creative people who trust me to create an exciting environment in which to sell their products.

FOOD & CRAFT FAIR To mark 7 years of trading, our Food & Craft Fair on Saturday 18 May has over 25 stalls celebrating all things local, including arts and crafts, tastings, craft beer and much more. With free parking and free entry!

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

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

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The 2019 fair has moved from Knepp Castle – where it’s been held for six years - to Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, near Arundel. It’s an exciting move that has refreshed my interest in the event. Amberley Museum is a brilliant location with fantastic exhibits including the Southdown buses, locomotives and industrial machinery. We will have a narrow-gauge steam locomotive running during the fair.

The fair is family-friendly, with lots to see and do, particularly coupled with the Museum’s exhibits. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done and seems to be better every year, so come along!

WORDS: JEAN JACKMAN (EDITED BY BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS The fair will be held over the weekend of 1 – 2 June, 10am 5pm. Adult entry £10 (children under-14 £2/under-4 free). The reduced ticket includes entry to the Museum and the Fair. Parking is free with an additional field for overflow parking. For details visit facebook.com/floralfringefair

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The heart-rate focused workouts help burn calories, build strength, increase energy and tones your body like nothing else.

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someone guiding you, ensuring your technique is correct, monitoring your fitness and giving advice. YourZone45 offers superb value for money, as it has elements of personal training without the expense, with the vibrant feel of a group session.”

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KEEPING MINDS

ACTIVE AT THE MEN’S

Peter Arthur making a variety of wooden chopping boards

SHED Horsham’s Men’s Shed offers a place where people can pursue their hobbies and interests in a safe, sociable setting.

Ray Jackson can turn his hand to metal or woodworking projects

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We meet Founder and Chairman Ben Pickstock, Greg Charman (Health and Wellbeing Manager at Horsham District Council) and regular ‘Shedders’ Chris Avery, Ray Jackson, Roy Steele, Kevin Baum, Doug Poynter and Peter Arthur...

Ben: The Men’s Shed movement started in Australia but has proved a huge success in the UK, with about 425 locations now established. Lots of people think about what they will do after retirement and a Men’s Shed gives them a place to meet like-minded people. It also helps maintain occupational skills or develop new hobbies. I've always been an active person, so I wanted to help establish a group in Horsham.

Chris: I met Ben through another community project and he told me about the Men’s Shed concept. It sounded great – a place where we can indulge in hobbies like carpentry, metal work or gardening in a social setting. So, a small band of us started looking around for an ideal location.

Ben: Over the course of several months in 2016, we formed a group of Trustees and gained Charitable Trust status. But we still didn't have our own premises.

Chris: The Shedders briefly met at a different venue, but it didn’t work out. Then, whilst on a scouting mission, Ben stumbled this old drill hut, owned by the Ministry of Defence.

Ben: The building was in a horrendous state! It was boarded up with cracks in the walls. It hadn’t been used in over a decade. The rear of the building had been consumed by ivy and none of the electrics worked, but it was the perfect size and location. We had already held discussions with the Health and Wellbeing team at Horsham District Council, who supported our idea from the outset. That support made a difference when it came to contacting the MoD, who thought the Men’s Shed was a great idea. So, we secured the lease.

Greg: From Horsham District Council’s perspective, the Men’s Shed concept ties in with the healthy, social lifestyle we promote. It gives people of all ages a sense of purpose and helps them keep active. It’s a

Kevin Baum, pictured building and repainting a remote-controlled Land Rover, says the Men’s Shed has had a positive effect on his life

community asset, as people can become lonely and isolated, particularly in later life.

Chris: It took us six months to tidy the place and have it ready for opening day in 2017. We were inundated by people donating their old tools and machinery. The community was so generous that we inherited far more than we could ever need!

Greg: There is a generation of men that acquired a huge collection of tools during their lifetime and want to see them going to a good home. They are happy to donate tools, knowing they will be well used by the Shedders.

Roy: We even had a circular saw machine donated, but moving it inside the building was a nightmare! We used a lorry to transport it here, then had to take the machine apart and remove the interior doors to squeeze it inside. But it has made a big difference. We also have a lathe in the woodwork room, drilling machines in the metalwork room and several

“From the beginning, we’ve had members with invaluable knowledge.”

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work benches, made from old pallets.

Ben: From the beginning, we’ve been fortunate to have members with invaluable knowledge. Roy Steer has built stunning grandfather clocks and pianos, whilst ‘Young’ John Borley, who is 82, can turn his hand to anything. As well as working on their own projects, they regularly help others with problems they might encounter.

Doug: When I retired last year, I didn't know what to do with my time. I had previously worked in a factory, operating electronic equipment, but I wasn’t physically making things so my woodwork skills are limited. I’ve

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been making hedgehog houses, but some of the guys can make anything! I’m envious of people with such skills, but it’s great to learn from them!

Ben: We see a mixture of projects here. Someone has brought in a rocking chair for restoration, but we also make things like bird boxes, which we sell to the public. We do get involved in community projects.

Several Shedders went to the Springboard Project in Horsham and created a new walkway, with materials donated by Wickes. We have also done work for Syrian refugees and replaced a fence at Horsham Age UK. The beauty of the Men’s Shed is that we’re flexible. We’re still learning and we’re careful not to be a repair centre; but certainly we welcome ideas for community projects.

Peter: We see all sorts of timber being donated. I take great pleasure in bringing something that might have been thrown away back to life. I’m currently carving cheese boards, which is fitting for someone who spent most of their working life as a

“I'm not skilled like some of the guys, but I bought into the Men’s Shed philosophy straight away.” chef and caterer. I sand them down and give them five coats of oil to produce a lovely finish.

Kevin: My main interest is electronics and I have several projects on the go. I’ve built a huge R2-D2 robot, designed a drone, and am also putting together a remote-controlled Land Rover. All sorts of interesting things come in; recently, we fixed a projector dating back to the 1940s!

Ray: I was a woodturner and later manufactured agricultural machinery in my working life, so I feel at home here. I've been coming to the Men’s Shed since it

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started and am always happy to help others, if I’m needed.

Sometimes, I make sculptures or ornaments for homes and gardens, but currently I’m drilling a hole through a bolt for my nephew, who is converting a Campervan and needs the bolt to install a rotating passenger seat!

Ben: There is a strong social side to the group. We have organised trips to the Bluebell Railway, Brooklands Museum, Amberley Museum and Dark Star Brewery. But it is just being here

that people tend to like the most!

Kevin: The Men’s Shed has had a hugely positive effect on my life.

I had a car crash that left me with significant spinal damage and other health problems that will always be with me. But coming here keeps my body and mind active.

Chris: I'm not highly skilled like some of the other guys, but I bought into the Men’s Shed philosophy straight away. When I moved away from the District,

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Doug Poynter creates bird boxes out of old pallets

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Sometimes, I see a new face and they’ll say something like “my wife sent me!”

Members of Horsham Men’s Shed with freshly painted bird boxes

one of my major concerns was leaving the Men’s Shed behind.

For a year, I‘ve been driving from Rye and staying with a friend, so I can spend a couple of days here.

I missed the social side as much as anything. When I moved away, I also left behind the church that I loved. Now, this is my church!

Ben: Everyone has their reasons for coming. We have one member who sadly lost his wife but he comes here for the

friendship and to pass on his skills to others. Some care for loved ones at home and use the shed to take a break and pursue a hobby. Some come simply for the camaraderie.

well. You don’t have to be an experienced carpenter or engineer. Some people chip in by painting bird boxes or hedgehog houses, which are very popular with children.

Ray: We have a nice group but there’s scope for others to join us.

We’re currently active on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, but eventually would like to be operational from Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings as

Ben: Sometimes, I see a new face around and they’ll say something like, “my wife sent me!” We’re open to new members, but it’s a two-way thing. Those who come need to contribute, any way they can. The Men’s Shed is not for

everyone, but great friendships can be forged here.

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS

Horsham’s Men’s Shed is located in Dukes Square, Denne Road, Horsham and is open Tuesday - Thursday, 10am - 4pm.

For more details, visit www.mens-shed-horsham.org.uk

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MASTER CRAFTER Tom Osborne on the success of Craft House Coffee in Henfield

The amount of times that I get called a is insane!

hipster

I make coffee and have a beard, and that’s seemingly enough to qualify! In reality, I’m just passionate about my product.

I've always loved coffee. I used to drink Nespresso pods, which I would never disparage as they helped me develop my love of coffee.

Gradually, I turned to darker, more bitter flavours, thinking they were fantastic.

Then, in 2010, I went to see my dad in Arizona and we visited Groundwork Coffee Co, where I had the most incredible single shot latte. Back then, I typically drank coffee with milk with sugar, but this tasted great without. It wasn’t dark or bitter and had incredible flavour, so I asked the barista what it was. He explained that it was a naturally-processed coffee from the Yirgacheffe region of Ethiopia. It was a real eye-opener!

I can be

Obsessive with coffee.

I threw myself into researching the process of making great coffee, from farming methods to roasting and serving. I wanted to know what went into making amazing coffee. That is how Craft House Coffee was born.

make coffee. Initially, we had a small unit in a converted pig sty. Then, I would ride home to Crawley, often after midnight, before rising again for work at 5.30am. It was exhausting, but I loved it!

We launched in November 2015 with little fanfare. It was something I did solely at evenings and weekends.

Every day, I would commute by motorbike to London, where I worked in IT, then head straight to Henfield to

I didn't know if the business was ever going to make money. But orders steadily increased and it reached a point where I could commit fully to Craft House Coffee and give up my job in the City.

Gradually, my knowledge of

coffee increased.

I remember people asking me about roasting beans in their espresso machines. ‘How much can be roasted, at what temperature, and for how long?’ But I didn't know.

It’s only with experience that I have gained that knowledge. Not only do I now know the answers, I even sell and service espresso machines.

Sam Osborne at Craft House Coffee

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You can buy coffee from anywhere, but from the outset, I didn’t want to take shortcuts. To create great coffee, you have to understand the product and how flavours vary. We established relationships with co-operatives in Colombia, Brazil, Nicaragua and other countries, so we can tell the full story of what’s in the cup.

The first coffee I put into the roaster was a Colombian bean. When we ran out, I called the co-operative and the conversation ended with me travelling to Colombia to see how it was produced! I was sceptical as I read travel advice on the Foreign Office website and could see that the farm was close to danger areas.

But the experience was fantastic!

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The entire area was once associated with drugs cultivation, but has been transformed in recent years. I saw first-hand how coffee was benefiting the whole community.

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I’ve since travelled to other coffeeproducing nations, developing working relationships with co-operatives that offer consistent quality that meets our standards.

Craft House Coffee creates two core blends. Industrial is a medium roast espresso, blending Brazilian and Colombian beans, giving it a strong chocolate and caramel body with fruity notes. The second is Development, a smooth and darker blend of Brazilian and Ethiopian. When I started out, my personal preference was for medium roast coffee with a hint of fruitiness.

But many people still love the more traditional, richer flavoured coffee, so we have these contrasting blends.

Everything else we sell is single origin coffee, which we alter depending on the season. Currently, we have coffee from Bolivia, El Salvador, Brazil, Rwanda, Kenya and two Colombians.

My assumption was that Craft House Coffee would supply local cafes and restaurants, but I discovered business doesn’t work that way. Our customers come from across the country and as far as Qatar. Most are independent businesses or coffee houses that are willing to spend a little extra for an exceptional product. However, we will be supplying a new bar in Piries Place (formerly The Dead Parrot) and we set up a market stall in the Carfax most Saturdays.

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I test our coffee at Horsham

Market No matter what happens in the future, I would like to maintain our presence in the Carfax. We are stuck in the factory for most of the week, so the market presents an opportunity to meet people and chat about coffee.

Sam Osborne, Tom Osborne and Bridget Pettifer at Craft House Coffee

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Horsham folk typically like traditional coffee, so we serve our Industrial blend. Now and again, we throw a curve ball by serving something like a fruity Ethiopian coffee, just to see what the feedback is like.

As sales have increased, so has our capacity. We moved into a bigger unit in Henfield and took delivery of a new Gisesen W15 roaster. Our previous 6kg machine made it difficult to achieve consistency between batches, whereas the 15kg roaster gives us that. Now, with every order, the customer can trace the coffee from the farm where the coffee was picked, right through to the roasting batch number.

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snob?

Some would say I am! But I have to be, as good quality coffee is becoming more accessible. It is everywhere!

Everybody wants a decent cup of coffee and what was once considered ‘Artisan’ is now becoming mainstream.

That is why we go that extra mile to ensure we offer something special.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS Pop along to Craft House Coffee’s market stall most Saturdays in the Carfax, or visit www.crafthousecoffee.co.uk

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MY STORY

KEVIN STASS ON A LIFETIME IN BALLOONING I was a leap year baby, born on 29 February 1956. My father worked at Barclays, commuting to London for 40 years from the New Town of Crawley. I went to Hazelwick School and was mad on football. I am still a season ticket holder at Chelsea FC. I didn't have a career plan, but my dad had done well in banking, so I took Business Studies at Crawley College. I didn’t even complete my exams though. I travelled around America on a Greyhound bus instead!

The Crawley Observer had an advert for a Flight Documentation Assistant at Dan-Air. My brother was an apprentice at British Caledonian and could get flight tickets for next to nothing, which sounded great! So, I went for it.

One of the people interviewing me was also born on 29 February, which helped me land the job.

On my first day, I stepped inside the terminal building at Gatwick, smelt the Kerosene and felt at home. I then spent 40 years in aviation.

Kevin, who lives in Horsham, had his share of dramas as a hot air balloon pilot. But it was his navigational expertise that led to his involvement in many record attempts...

A consortium of Dan-Air pilots had bought a share of a hot air balloon, with the company paying the other half. It was used to promote Dan-Air at fetes and festivals. I became involved and soon built up enough hours to gain a pilot’s licence.

The sensation of balloon flight is incredible. Once you’re in the air, you forget all the hassle of setting up. It requires a great deal of effort and preparation, as you need someone chasing you around the countryside to pick you up afterwards. Before mobile phones, it could take a while, so pilots would usually make a point of landing near a pub!

I eventually became Route Planning Manager at Dan-Air. It was a huge learning curve, as the company had been built with people who served in the RAF during the war, with a younger team growing around them.

In 1979, I took my first solo flight.

A few months later, we flew at the first Bristol Balloon Fiesta, which has become a major event.

We also travelled to Germany several times, tethering the balloon outside The Reichstag.

The Berliner Morgenpost published a photo of the balloon super-imposed over Berlin, which caused consternation as the guards assumed we planned to fly it.

We also went to Majorca, but I never flew outside the UK. It’s risky when you’re not used to the conditions and I didn’t want to embarrass Dan-Air. But that’s exactly what happened in 1984.

I had taken off from Wisborough Green, flying along the A29 over Billingshurst and Slinfold, towards the junction with the A281. We were approaching Gatwick, so I looked for a place to land. The balloon veered left towards a hedge, so I aimed for the next field instead. It was a shallower descent and we hit the ground hard. The pilot light caught one grain of barley and the whole lot went up in flames.

There were two others in the basket. I was training one to fly the balloon, whilst the other was the wife of Dan-Air's Chief Pilot.

I grabbed them both and we ran across the field as the propane cylinders exploded, destroying the balloon and four acres of crops. One of the first to arrive on the scene was an Evening Argus photographer!

By 1992, Dan-Air was struggling and British Airways stepped in.

Some people were kept on, but I wasn’t. I spent several months with a team trying to establish an airline called First European, but we couldn’t get financing.

So, I joined Virgin Atlantic as Route Planning Officer, gradually working back up to a Manager’s position. Then the balloon madness started.

Johnny Ball takes off in a hot air balloon in Horsham Park

Richard Branson was flying hot air balloons and the scale and ambition of the projects grew.

Having flown across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans with Swedish pilot Per Lindstrand, they wanted to be the first people to fly around the world.

But flying over countries is complicated, as it requires permits. That happened to be my day job.

Richard asked to meet me for a 30-minute chat. That meeting would end with me spending ten years on ballooning projects.

I was partly responsible for obtaining overnight flight permits for the Virgin Global Challenger (later ICO Global), working in mission control in

Crawley. Richard, Per and Alex Ritchie took off from Marrakech for their first attempt in 1997.

A technical issue hit them and the crew landed in the Algerian desert. A second attempt failed when the balloon was blown away by a gust of wind during inflation. There was concern that it would wrap itself around an aircraft. Richard called me and said: “Kevin, I want you to get permission for a helicopter gunship to shoot the balloon and release the helium.” I said: “Okay, give me the details of the gunship.” He said: “No, I need you to find one!” It was the most surreal moment!

Fortunately, the balloon came down by its own accord.

Alex died in Marrakesh during parachute practice. It was a terrible time for everyone, as he was a great guy.

A new balloon was ready by December 1998, with Steve Fossett joining the crew. They avoided hotspots in the Middle East but hit trouble over China.

The Chinese had granted flight permission on the condition that the balloon flew on the 26th parallel north latitude. The

Kevin outside The Reichstag, Berlin, 1980

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Kevin (far left) with Richard Branson, Steve Fossett and Jon Karkow (Chief Project Engineer) in Salina, Kansas

The Dan-Air balloon in Majorca, 1982

wind shifted, blew us off course and all hell broke loose! China demanded that we land in Tibet, but doing so would seriously risk the lives of the crew. The situation escalated, involving the Chinese and British governments.

The balloon left China as quickly as possible, but ended up heading towards North Korea! We hadn’t sought permission to fly

there, as the odds of it happening were so remote. I finally reached Pyongyang and to everyone’s surprise, they were fine about it!

Unfortunately, we couldn't pick up the winds needed to take us over the Pacific and ICO Global came down near Hawaii. Richard’s passport sunk to the bottom of the ocean, meaning he couldn’t go to his Caribbean Island until

we arranged a replacement.

A Swiss team completed the around the world flight the following year, but Steve still wanted to achieve the first solo flight. I joined his team as Air Traffic Control Co-ordinator.

He took off from Northam, Western Australia, but suffered a technical issue and landed in Brazil. We were preparing for another try when the 9/11 terror attacks occurred. When the balloon launched again, it was named Spirit of Freedom.

Steve chose the University of Washington in St Louis, were he was Governor, as mission control.

Steve completed his epic journey.

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Independence Day captured the imagination of the media. I found myself being interviewed by Radio 4 ‘s Today programme and

by Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America.

The Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer on a record-breaking flight

The balloon capsule was placed in the Smithsonian Aerospace Museum in Washington. It has my name on it! There was a celebration dinner, where my son joined me.

We sat at a table with Buzz Aldrin.

The biggest strain in my life was refraining from asking him what it's like to walk on the moon! We had a photo taken with him next to the Apollo 11 capsule. He said: “It’s hard to believe we flew to the moon in that!”

David Hempleman-Adams attempted to become the first person to fly across the Atlantic in an open basket balloon. I was part of the Control Team. On his third attempt, he took off from New Brunswick, Canada and was just beyond the Blackpool Tower when he landed. He is a great adventurer. You’d see him down the pub with a pint, chatting about his next challenge.

Kevin in mission control during Steve Fossett’s ‘longest flight’ attempt

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Steve Fossett then wanted to be the first person to fly solo around the world in an airplane.

Naturally, Richard was involved and The Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer was born. I was given the job of Mission Control Director. I scoured America for airports that were quiet yet had a long runway, finding the perfect spot in Salina, Kansas. When I called the airport manager about our plan, he thought it was a prank.

Virgin are brilliant at whipping up publicity. They had amazing ideas, including setting up mission control in Times Square.

But I wanted the base to be Salina. Virgin and the Events company it used transformed the

“The biggest strain in my life was refraining from asking Buzz Aldrin what it's like to walk on the moon!”

Aviation College attached to Salina into a remarkable mission control centre. I couldn’t believe I would be running such an advanced operation.

We encountered one problem, as the GlobalFlyer was venting fuel and we needed to calculate if Steve could make it over the Pacific. But he did it and being a part of it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.

Before long, Steve was talking about recording the longest ever solo flight.

I was again Mission Control Director when Steve took off from Kennedy Space Centre. This time, I was based at Virgin’s offices in Crawley, sleeping in a Campervan in the car park. Steve crossed the Atlantic twice and we picked RAF Manston in Kent for the landing site. As he flew over southern England, Steve’s generator failed.

The media had to rush from Kent to Bournemouth in time for his emergency landing!

Through my involvement with ballooning, I received The Royal Aero Club Bronze Medal, presented by Prince Andrew, and the Certificate of Achievement from the Royal Institute of Navigation, presented by Prince Phillip.

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Steve disappeared in 2007 while flying a light aircraft. His pilot licence was found by a hiker in the Sierra Nevada Desert a year later and his remains discovered soon after.

Considering all the things he attempted and achieved, it was a tragedy that he should die in what was a relative stroll in the park.

My time at Virgin came to an end in 2015. I became involved in the Straightline Aviation Project, which operates helium-assisted airships in partnership with major manufacturers.

Mike Scholes had once run a balloon flight company before losing his sight to a rare condition. He was presenting a talk at a retirement village where my mum lives. She spoke to him afterwards and told him about me and it transpired that Mike and I had once met. A few weeks later, he contacted my mum again in a bid to track me down...

Since losing his sight, Mike has attempted several long-distance challenges, the latest of which is to fly a balloon across the Atlantic with his partner Deborah Day, who runs a salon in Cuckfield.

I met the couple in Mike’s home village of Lindfield, where he is much admired and there’s great excitement about his latest project. They have prepared well, entering a training regime, liaising with the Navy about the route and ordering a bespoke balloon. However, there were aspects where I felt they needed help, so I offered assistance on the logistics side. They aim to set off on 1 July.

I haven't flown a balloon since 1984, but would like to rekindle my love of flying. I once told Per Lindstrand about my ballooning disaster. He just laughed and said: “I've had a few of those myself!’

It can happen to the best of them!

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS & KEVIN STASS

To support Mike Scholes and Deborah Day’s Transatlantic Balloon Challenge, please visit www.gofundme.com/ transatlantic-balloon-challenge If you have a story that you’d like to share with AAH for our My Story feature, we’d love to hear from you. Please email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Kevin is helping Deborah Day and Mike Scholes with their Atlantic flight

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CHRIS NEILSON (Head Coach)

“We have ten coaches at the club, ranging from Level 1 to Level 3, so we’re able to help everyone from novices right up to Team GB athletes.

Those wanting to take up triathlon for the first time need to be able to swim competently. Club sessions present us with the opportunity to develop skills for the cycling component, including transition and bike maintenance, in a ‘no-pressure’ environment.

A standard triathlon has a 1500m open water swim, followed by a 40km bike ride and 10km run.

A ‘sprint’ triathlon halves those distances and are ideal for newcomers. It’s best to progress gradually.

Above: Amphibians members Sarah Fiddaman and Michelle Peckham

Our big annual event is the Southwater Relays, held at the Country Park. It’s a sell-out every year, with competitors from clubs across London and the south-east. Organising it requires a huge team effort.

We are one of the few triathlon clubs that gains automatic Many people move on to triathlon entry into the South Downs after finding fitness through Relay, which follows the Downs things like Parkrun. Some choose Way for 100 miles. Our to push themselves to an ironman members have also taken part level (3.8km swim, 180km ride Central House, Medwin Walk, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1AG in European and World and a marathon).

Championship events.

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With various age categories, you can qualify for Team GB in later life, earning the right to compete in the same race as professional athletes. There's not many sports where that happens.

We would like to attract more young members. There's an untapped well of talent out there, as we’ve seen at the local Kidstri events. So, we hope we could generate fresh interest if we’re able to organise youth sessions at the right times.”

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AMY HARRIS “I grew up watching my dad compete in triathlon and ironman events. Me and my sister would help at the Southwater Relays and although dad never forced us into taking up the sport, we did!

Helen Varcoe and Jacob Cann at Bluecoat Sports Centre

I swam with the Barracudas at Christ's Hospital and ran for Blue Star Harriers in Horsham before joining Amphibians. Initially, I focused on sprint triathlons, over a shorter distance. I didn't want to do too much, too young and don't think it’s sensible for young people to compete regularly in long distance events.

I gradually moved up to the full Olympic distance before attempting a half ironman, qualifying for the European Championships in 2018. A group of us flew out to Ibiza for the Europeans, expecting it to be sunny. As luck would have it, we had torrential rain, so the race didn’t pan out as I’d have liked!

Colin Miller, a long-serving member of Horsham Amphibians Triathlon

I also took part in a half ironman at Hever Castle, winning the 20 - 24 age group. Now, I’m moving into

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“The whole episode made me appreciate the importance of looking after your health first.� the 25 - 29 age group, which is more competitive.

The most important thing is to enjoy sport. It is just a hobby and I’m not competing at an elite level.

My goal is to do the best I can and have fun. At one race in Weymouth, I caught hypothermia and for months afterwards felt exhausted. I had dangerously low iron levels, so cut back on training until my energy levels returned. The whole episode made me appreciate the importance of looking after your health first.

Horsham Amphibians Triathlon is a superb club. Everyone is supportive.

When we’re at events, it’s great to see people in your club’s colours at the side, cheering you on.�

“I only took up triathlon five years ago. I rowed for two years at Oxford University, but it took up so much of my time that I decided to switch to triathlon for my final two years.

After finishing university, I took the sport more seriously and last year entered the European Championships in Estonia, competing over the Olympic distance. I won the 25 - 29 age group. I also competed in the World Championships on the Gold Coast. This year’s European Championships will be held in The Netherlands with the Worlds in Lausanne, Switzerland, which is more affordable than Australia!

“I entered the European Championships in Estonia, winning in the 25 - 29 age group.”

I am fortunate to have kit sponsorship from Zone3, but athletes outside of the elite series do not have financial support to train and compete. I hope to try the elite series in future.

In the races that we compete in, drafting is not allowed during the cycling leg. You need to maintain a gap to the next rider, unless you’re passing them. As cycling is a strong discipline for me, isolating riders in this way gives me an advantage.

However, looking at the times, I believe I would fare well in an elite event.”

JACOB CANN “At the age of 18, I'm one of the younger members at the club.

I started by taking part in Kidstri events in Horsham, Billingshurst and East Grinstead. I loved triathlons immediately, particularly running, as I was already competing in cross country and 10km races for Blue Star Harriers.

We have a great club already, although I’d like to see a few more younger people joining, perhaps enough to set up a youth section.”

Oliver Crossley won the European Championship title in Estonia

Leading Horsham player Brad Harper has recorded a break of 142

OLIVER CROSSLEY

ANDY ROBINSON I was a member of Horsham Blue Star Harriers when I was young and started running competitively at the age of 16.

At the time, my coach was Mark Rowland, a medalist at the 1988 Olympics.

For ten years, athletics was my life.

I specialised in the Steeplechase, qualifying for the Commonwealth Games in 2006 and running for Great Britain at many events, including IAAF Grand Prix meetings.

I took a break from the sport after missing out on selection for the Commonwealth Games. I was disheartened, as I felt I’d achieved everything I’d been asked to.

A friend asked me to join him at a swimming session with the Amphibians at Bluecoat Sports Centre and I enjoyed it. I had never ridden a proper road bike, but found that my running background made the transition relatively easy.

My main problem was swimming! I wasn’t particularly strong and was initially placed in a lower lane. With running and cycling, there’s an aspect of being able to push yourself, even

Andy competed for Great Britain the Steeplechase

“I’m 40 but still give youngsters a good run for their money!”

when it really hurts, but swimming is about technique.

I've gradually become a good swimmer; not a great one by any means. I can now hold my position in the water and pull it back on the bike and run. I’m 40, but still give youngsters a good run for their money!

The different age categories in

triathlon mean that I qualified for the European Championships in the half ironman last year.

I was leading nine miles into the event, held in Ibiza, but struggled with my knee and came home fourth. It felt disappointing at the time, but as the first British athlete to finish, I’ve been automatically selected for this year’s race. So, if I’m fit, I’ll aim for the podium.”

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Billy’s has family appeal

Many Amphibians triathletes have qualified for Team GB

Colin MILLER “I've always been sporty and have also been a member of Worthing Excelsior Cycling Club for years.

Amphibians was formed by several friends, initially in Worthing. During the early days, several members travelled to the coast from Horsham and eventually the club moved to Christ’s Hospital, where it’s gone from strength to strength.

The impact of Olympians, most notably the Brownlee brothers, has helped triathlon grow over the years, as has the growth and popularity of cycling.

Some of the new faces here are youngsters, but most take up the sport in their 30s or 40s. I am

71-years-old and competed until only four years ago.

At club events, you can compete in different age categories over a variety of distances. There are sprint triathlons for those starting out, whilst fitter athletes may complete the Olympic distance or even ironman events.

There is a good camaraderie at the club. Whilst I no longer compete, I still enjoy training as I meet friends.

There’s a wide age range, from teenagers all the way up to our oldest member Margaret Massie-Taylor, who at the age of 89 still swims. That encouraging for me. I’ve still got a few more years in me yet!”

Neil CANN Triathlon does attracts people later in life as it provides competition in different age categories.

At each event there are individual men and women races, right up to ‘veteran’ and sometimes ‘vintage’ categories for over 60s, as many people maintain healthy lifestyles well into retirement.

The beauty of the sport is that it is less stressful that running or cycling individually, in terms of injuries, yet still allows you to compete and set goals. We all have targets. For some, it’s finishing local triathlons, whilst others might aim to qualify for major championships. As a club, we’re very proud of how many members have been selected by the British Triathlon Federation.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS For more on the Amphibians, including information on coaching sessions, visit www.horshamamphibians.co.uk

Billy’s on the Road, situated on the A29 between Five Oaks and Billingshurst, is the go-to place for families in need of reviving after a long day.

Whether they’ve been riding along the Downs Link, have enjoyed a day at the beach or have simply endured a tough day at school, this roadside café is perfect for children!

With kid-friendly menus, all-day breakfasts, classic comfort dishes and generous slices of home-made cake, Billy’s has something for all the family.

Since opening in 2013, chef-proprietor Billy Willison has given the café all-age appeal. The kids’ menu includes Dinner’s in the Dog (two sausages in a soft finger roll) or Farty Pants (baked beans with melted cheese soldiers). The train track table, with miniature engines whizzing around under glass, keeps youngsters amused while adults enjoy locally-ground coffee and a generous slice of home-made cake.

“This is our regular place. The breakfasts are great and we love watching the trains go round!” says Oliver, 10, who comes regularly with his brother, William, 7: “I like the waffles, but the fried breakfast is incredible.”

“I really enjoy seeing families come in and being able to order exactly what they feel like, as there are no rules here,” says Billy. “Mum and dad can enjoy one of our breakfast specials, served all day, while children tuck into an ice cream sundae or a plate of pancake. Everyone is happy!”

One recent Tripadvisor post said: “What isn't to like? So convenient and allows for all types of visits - couples, families, friends. The food is all fresh and prepared in front of you.”

No wonder Billy’s has become a family favourite!

Find all Billy’s menus online and check out the Specials Boards when you visit

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A MICRO BUSIN

For a generation, Micro Machines were an integral part of growing up.

From the mid-1980s and through the 90s, young boys around the world collected the miniature vehicles. Even those whose parents deemed them too expensive couldn’t escape the cultural impact of Micro Machines.

Who could forget the adverts featuring an actor officially listed as the world’s fastest talker in the Guinness Book of Records, or the ingenious way the cars were used to foil hapless burglars in Home Alone?

But the rise of Micro Machines as a major player in the global toy business was matched by its decline. Like Boglins, Tamagotchi, Pogs, Street Sharks and countless others that briefly flourished in a decade dominated by fads, the little cars have been largely forgotten. Not however,

by Stuart Harvey of Southwater.

Over the past few years, Stuart has been creating cufflinks from matching Micro Machines. Whilst it’s been little more than an enjoyable hobby inspired by his own childhood love of the toys, he has built a website for the business, CoolCarCuffs, and demand for his quirky accessory is growing.

“I found my old collection and thought that they were the ideal size for cufflinks,” says Stuart. “Back in 2013, I made a few for myself and close friends. There was a lot of experimenting with different glues, but eventually I found a suitable resin to attach the cars to blank cufflinks.”

“I’ve long thought that standard cufflinks are boring. There are very few ways to customise a suit with your own character, but cufflinks can be one small way to express yourself.

Although they are collectable toys, I like the fact that they are being seen and people can get some enjoyment out of them.”

NESS “Whenever I wear them, they generate interest. One of my friends even uses them in business meetings, as they can be a good icebreaker. The cufflink is a lovely piece of real estate on a suit, so why not use it to express your character?�

Growing Interest Stuart has bolstered his collection of Micro Machines by buying hundreds online. He buys second-hand collections, matching up cars that in good condition.

A series of Special or Limited Editions, including movie cars like the Back to the Future Delorean, NASCARs, F1 cars and sportscar classics like the Ford GT40 and Jaguar E-Type make the miniatures fun and interesting. However, it is only recently that interest among collectors has shown signs of growth.

“Cufflinks range from £10 - £25, with the price reflected by the value of the Micro Machines.”

“I liked playing with Micro Machines when I was young,” he said. “You could sneak them in your pocket and take them to school and race them. They even made trucks or carry cases that could store them.”

“Sadly, they ceased production a long time ago. They have tried to relaunch the brand with a special Star Wars collection and I hoped that the PS4 game ‘Micro Machines: World Series’ would generate fresh interest, but it didn’t quite happen.”

“In some ways, that’s good news for me, as I buy them on eBay. However, prices have been rising and people are paying more for rare cars.”

“The price of my cufflinks range from £10 £25, with the price reflected by the value of the Micro Machines. I sold a pair of Triumph TR3 cars that I had priced in the hope that they wouldn’t sell, as they were my favourite.

Somebody obviously fell in love with them!”

Authorised Dealership

Changing Trends As well as making cufflinks using Micro Machines, CoolCarCuffs also uses board game accessories, including Monopoly playing pieces and Scrabble letters. Stuart’s main passion is primarily with the cars but, as with Micro Machines, it could be that changing trends one day sound the death knell for his business.

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“Current fashion is moving away from double cuff shirts, so it may be that this limits growth.

But, I would encourage people to go for a double cuff shirt with a smart pair of cufflinks!”

REPORT: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS For more on CoolCarCuffs visit: https://cufflinksandgifts.wix.com/home coolcarcuffs.etsy.com instagram.com/coolcarcuffs Email: coolcarcuffs@gmail.com

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Letters to the Editor editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Your Criticism of WSCC is Unfair Councillor Paul Clarke of Horsham writes: I always enjoy reading the editorial and varied articles in AAH. You've produced a magazine with a distinctive style and local roots which makes a contribution to our ‘civic society'.

However, The Sorry Situation of Secondary Schools (P5, April 2019) contains more sibilance than strict accuracy. You are factually wrong and unfair in accusing HDC and WSCC for a failure to count and a 'track record which is really quite shameful'.

WSCC has an exceptional record of educational provision, especially in Horsham. If you read David Arnold's account in ‘Education and Politics’ of the extraordinary ingenuity it showed in the incorporation of Collyer's into the maintained system in the 1970s, you will get a sense of just what that is or was.

The present debacle is entirely

tiptoe across Liam Fox's Atlantic Bridge to offer a 'great deal' which will include tendering to run public services for American shareholder values, rather than our benefit.

the responsibility of the HMG's benighted ideology, specifically David Cameron's Academies Act of 2010, which left WSCC responsibility but no power to address it, as education was to be simultaneously nationalised and privatised. Hence the pop-up Bohunt Academy, as distinct from a properly planned and integrated WS school.

West Sussex is left with responsibility but no power, since it is the Secretary of State who now approves the new provision in Whitehall.

For those who say these arguments about privatisation and public service were settled with the advent of Thatcherism 40 years ago, all I can say is watch out for those around Donald Trump, preparing to

Editor: Academies and Free Schools are certainly coming under increasing scrutiny, particularly when it comes to finances. It is a scandal that Directors of Academy Trusts have huge incomes (highlighted

by BBC’s Panorama) whilst 7,000 Headteachers (including Jules White at Tanbridge) struggle to gain an audience with the Education Secretary over funding cuts (Guardian, 8 March 2019).

Still, when it comes to secondary school provision, we are falling short locally and the situation will worsen until Bohunt is ready. There are concerns about that entire ‘North Horsham’ development, and HDC must surely shoulder responsibility for the predicament.

Put Your Pen Where Your Mouth is...

Katie Nagal writes via email: It is great to have a free local magazine that champions the wonderful things that Horsham has to offer.

I enjoy the conversational writing style of AAH and the stunning photography that punches well above its weight.

It is clear that you have a deep love and affection for the town and care very much about residents and businesses in the area. This warm-heartedness comes through in your writing.

With that in mind, please would you indulge me for a moment as I have a gripe about April’s column?

In recent months, you have taken a swipe at our local councils. Whilst I understand

but you are someone who takes action and cares deeply about Horsham. So, if there are things that are bothering you, maybe you could actually take part in making the changes that you call for...

“What shall I moan about next?”

that press freedom is important in holding authorities to account, what niggles me is that you are a life-long resident who cares about the town. Yet it does not appear that you have put your pen where your mouth is and got involved with campaigning about anything before such issues became issues in the first place.

There are more than enough critical bystanders in the world,

Editor: AAH may take a more in depth look at major local issues in future. I’ve been reluctant to do so, as for me that’s the job of local papers.

AAH was created with a different agenda. The incinerator proposal was something that I didn’t think had been properly covered, so we decided to do that in March. We’ve been encouraged by the response to that and so AAH may evolve to become a more campaigning publication.

Shoulders the Blame Dr Geoffrey Richardson of Horsham writes:

I read with interest your comments on secondary schools in the Horsham District (Page 5, April 2019).

The reason there aren’t enough secondary school places in Southwater is due in large part to Cllr Claire Vickers. She played a key role in the decision making that deferred consideration of the strategic sites back in 2011, when the consultation of the local housing plan should have been put out to full public consultation.

The Southwater strategic site included a secondary school built by Berkeley Homes to meet pupil numbers in Southwater.

Yet once Cllr Ray Dawe appointed Cllr Vickers to cabinet, she took over the Council’s PPAG (Planning Policy Advisory Group) and quickly identified North Horsham as the strategic site rather than that of Southwater in her own ward, which had long been the council’s intention.

Had Southwater been chosen by the cabinet, then Berkeley would have built the secondary school by now, providing a new school and saving millions of pounds bussing children into Horsham.

No wonder Southwater parents are furious that their children are now to be bussed into Crawley and Southwater will probably get more houses anyway.

Editor: Perhaps I’m playing devil’s advocate, but in Cllr Vickers’ defence, I’m yet to meet a councillor that doesn’t place the needs of their own ward first. You also highlight another problem: Whilst Mr Clarke’s letter raises issues caused when central government takes over, different issues can be encountered when decisions are made at a more local level...

Inventive Ideas for Waste Michael Fensom of Horsham writes: Thank you for the most informative article on waste disposal (AAH March 2019) I would like to bring to your attention a most interesting article in National Geographic (April 2019), a special edition on cities. One article is about ‘Copenhagen’s Mountain Of Energy’. I’m sure the good folk of Horsham could also come up with inventive ideas for recreational usages.

As a retired construction person with experience of landfill, I tend to view them as a disaster slowly creeping up on the population.

But I will have fallen off my perch by then!

Director, impactsf Ltd

TEL: 01403 272625

www.impactsf.co.uk

Editor: Creating a man-made ski slope on the Amager Bakke incinerator project - located right on the waterfront in the Danish capital, is certainly an ambitious idea. Not sure it would work in Warnham. One of those energypowered artificial surfing centres, on the other hand...

Minimise Incinerator Impact Alan Fisher writes via email: A really thorough article on the incinerator project (March 2019).

Thank you.

Naturally, there was a fair amount of opposition raised against the project but some opinions expressed were a little inaccurate.

1. Burning waste does not increase CO2 emissions. The rubbish that is burned is in preference to oil, gas or coal that would have been burned to create that electricity in any case.

The amount of CO2 produced is proportional to the amount of electricity produced. Burning the waste then reduces imports of fossil fuels.

2. Burning eliminates the quality issue with recycling waste. When burning rubbish, it can be contaminated with grease, food etc. No more washing your rubbish, which wastes precious water.

3. As you say, much of recycling is exported, especially to Asia.

Much of the plastic that ends up in the ocean is thought to come from Asia.

4. There is an opportunity to recover old waste from landfill and burn it in the same way. This would back out further fossil fuels and again reduce imports.

You are right to point out the need to concentrate on the right architectural design to minimise the visual impact, making sure Horsham’s rural surroundings are not blighted. Also, that the emissions are safe.

Editor: Point 2 warrants its own feature. I found myself washing out a jar of mayonnaise recently.

What a ridiculous thing to have to do!

Step up the Mail Offensive!

Peter Butler of Billingshurst writes: Every month, I look forward to reading AAH and am always disappointed that you have not taken a pop at The Daily Mail.

You made a bit of an attempt in March, but this was, frankly, pathetic.

Please make more of an effort to be thoroughly offensive in order that I can enjoy responding in like manner.

Dale Jannels

Editor: I’ve missed you, Peter!

Although I’m always disappointed when you write a letter without belittling the achievements of David Bowie.

To be honest, I’ve altered my opinion of The Daily Mail, as its observations on the relationship between Meghan and Kate often based solely on body language expressed in a photo taken with a long range lens have been truly enlightening!

Still competitive deals, despite the uncertainty We can safely say that the word to sum up the first four months of the year is ‘uncertainty’. Already we’ve seen three lenders stop lending or pull all of their products due to ‘cost of funding’ and ‘uncertain times ahead’. This is all a bit ‘de ja vu’ compared to back in 2007/8 before the big ‘crash’. However, this time we’re not on the verge of a global recession (hopefully) and once we know what lies ahead for Brexit, things should return to some normality, whatever that may be.

Lenders usually start the new financial year with a flurry and as expected we have seen a number of lenders launch limited edition products. These are short term offers and therefore if you are looking to secure your ‘uncertainty’ for the next three to five years, there are some great deals to be had currently.

It always surprises me how few people actually know what rate they are on, the type of mortgage, i.e., fixed rate, tracker rate, etc, and whether they are paying interest only, or capital repayment. Unsurprisingly, almost everyone knows what it costs per month to the nearest penny! They will haggle for a £10 discount on a new washing machine or Sky TV, whilst letting ‘sleeping dogs lay’ when it comes to the mortgage!

‘It surprises me how few people know what rate they are on.’

It’s very easy when the promotional rate period comes to an end to keep your mortgage with the same lender, ‘brush it under the carpet’, and deal with it ‘tomorrow’. But we all know tomorrow never comes. A review of what’s on offer from other lenders, especially if you’re currently on a Standard Variable Rate, or equivalent is wise. These types of rates tend to be a lot higher than what’s available in the market place.

Many lenders are offering superb remortgage opportunities with minimal costs to change, including free standard valuations and some with legal costs. Rates are competitively low and mortgage product choice is at its highest for some time.

If there’s ever a time to review all options and give yourself a piece of certainty, now might be a good time, as after Brexit, who knows where we will be..

THE MAGIC

OF THE RING How Chanctonbury continues to inspire creative minds

With spring upon us, many people will cycle or drive to the foot of the South Downs and take a stroll on Chanctonbury Ring.

They will hike up the steep escarpment from Water Lane, through the belt of woodland, before coming out on the chalk grassland that leads to the Ring, following in the footsteps of those who made the pilgrimage to this special place 200 years ago.

The clump of trees that form Chanctonbury Ring has caught the imagination of artists.

Some have taken the hike to the top and are inspired by the isolation of the Ring.

Others have captured the landmark from the village of Washington or from across the pond near Wiston House. However, in order to see the Ring from there, tree cover need to be removed long ago. Evidence suggests that this had occurred by the Bronze Age.

Several burial mounds in the surrounding area date back to that time, suggesting the area had ritual significance. It is possible that a religious/ritual area continued for millennia, as two temples were built on the site in Roman times.

Its earlier spelling of Chankbury derives from the Old English descriptive words for ‘lump’ and ‘fort’. But we may never know why the encampment was built. Certainly, the exposed chalk that was used would

have caught the sunlight and stood out like a flashing beacon. Archaeological remains suggest that the site were linked to pigs or boar, either through sacrifice or feasting.

But by about 350AD, the temples had ceased to be used.

By the middle of the 18th century, there was a movement to enhance what nature had provided. Pleasure gardens, trees and plants were placed on top of man-made

mounds to provide a visual focus. A young Charles Goring from the nearby Wiston estate was indulged by his father, Sir Charles Goring, who allowed him to plant trees on the site.

As the years ticked by, the mystique of Chanctonbury Ring grew. Stories were told of phantom horses, fairies and druids searching for lost treasure, before the dawn of science fiction led to tales of UFOs.

From then on, the majestic site had a crown of trees, enhancing its visual appeal. Over the next 250 years, additional trees were planted, including in 1909, when the temples were discovered.

In 1967, a group of students who had planned to spend the night there were frightened away. In 1974, the Ghost and Psychic Investigation Group dared to spend the night on the Ring, with one member of the group reportedly lifted

One Swallow does not make a summer…

Tawny Owl (Chris Gomersall/RSPB)

RSPB Pulborough Brooks

A painting of Chanctonbury Ring by Charles William Taylor

Taylor’s perspective from across Wiston

several feet off the ground.

One might argue that the group were not the most reliable source...

In addition, it is said that the Devil can be summoned by running around the clump of trees seven times in an anti-clockwise direction, whilst a three-circle walk is rewarded with the appearance of a lady on a white horse.

The stories have dried up a little since 1987, when the copse of Beech trees was devastated by the Great Storm.

Three years later, 400 mainly beech trees were replanted.

Gerald Ackermann’s painting from Storrington Downs

‘It is said that the Devil can be summoned by running around the trees seven times.’

It remains a special place that inspires artists, writers and those that love this part of the South Downs. Those parking and hiking from Water Lane, look out for a narrow track to the right at the end of the

Edgar Holloway offers a different view

climb, about 15 metres before you join the South Downs Way. It offers a lovely stroll amongst trees that fell in the hurricane and protects you from the piercing winds that can sweep across the fields, before leading to a turnstile close to the Ring.

WORDS: JEREMY KNIGHT OF HORSHAM MUSEUM/ EDITED BY BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS. ART IMAGES COURTESY OF HORSHAM MUSEUM& ART GALLERY

John William Bramham’s stunning Chanctonbury depiction

In the not too distant past, it was believed that swallows hibernated in the mud at the bottom of ponds during the winter.

Whilst we might laugh at that idea now, the reality of their 6000 mile migration from South Africa to Sussex each spring (and of course the return journey) is no less astonishing!

Unlike most small migratory birds, they make their journey during the day, flying at relatively low altitudes and keeping themselves fuelled by snacking on insects whilst on the wing. They navigate using the sun’s position in the sky and the earth’s magnetic forces until they get a little closer to home when they will use visual cues – perhaps a river valley or a woodland - to make their way back to their nest site.

By now ‘our’ swallows will be back and we can admire their glossy blue-black plumage, red throats, streamlined shape and distinctive forked tails. Not only does the forked tail help with maneuverability whilst pursuing aerial insects, but it is a signal of the ‘quality’ of the male swallow. Longer length and, importantly, symmetrical tail streamers are most favoured by the females.

If you’re lucky enough to have swallows nesting nearby, watch the pair repairing their nest cup, lay eggs and it won’t be long until you can spot 4 or 5 gaping yellow mouths appearing above the cup.

Enjoy it whilst it lasts as you’ll be waving goodbye to them again in just a few months time.

Anna Allum RSPB Pulborough

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