AAH (All About Horsham) November 2021

NOVEMBER 2021

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

7 News Round-Up Naming ceremony at Bohunt School and HSO concert launches 50th anniversary year.

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

19 My Story George Smith devoted his working life to Sussex Police. Now he’s turned his hand to writing.

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24 Charity The Olive Tree has extended its cancer support services into Horsham.

COVER STORY The November cover features Nick Padmore, a racing driver from Horsham who competes in the FIA Masters Historic F1 championship.

This is a rarity for AAH in that it’s not one of our own photos. We met Nick for an interview in Horsham, but organising a photo with one of the cars he drives was difficult as they’re privately owned. Most images we could access had Nick in his helmet.

However, just days before AAH went to press, Nick emailed the Editor while testing at Portimao, Portugal, sending this fantastic shot of him with a JPS Lotus. The image is courtesy of Chrome Cars, which has a collection of JPS cars (www.chromecars.de) Other cover options feature Horsham Hawks Basketball Club and artist Jane Cole.

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

33 Groups Horsham District Scouts have a new caving facility, built in honour of former Leader Paul Dold.

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

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

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

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

Southwater: The Brown family, The Chapman family Villages: The Palmer family (BBH) Amy Butler (Wickhurst Green) Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Max Morris (Ashington), James Hobbs (Thakeham), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris Family (West Chiltington) Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale not currently able to deliver)

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

Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric) Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Barns Green Village Store, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), Slinfold Golf Club (Slinfold), Steyning Leisure Centre and Cobblestone Walk (Steyning) Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington) Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington), The Milk Churn (Rudgwick) We now have a new stand in place at Slinfold Golf Club, with the club’s latest logo. The stand at the Bridge Leisure Centre has been removed and placed at The Pavilions in the Park.

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

Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies NOTES Following on from the introduction last month of an AAH stand at The Milk Churn cafe at Bookham Harrison Farms, Rudgwick, we are delighted to have another new stand at the wonderful Gwyn’s Bakery in Bishopric, Horsham.

FAREWELL MELANIE Thanks to Melanie Bradley, who has delivered AAH in Horsham since April 2021. Melanie is now at university and we wish her all the best for the future!

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Art

Sport

Community

Motors

Jane Cole creates beautiful jewellery by heating and shaping coloured glass

Horsham Hawks have received funding to boost the popularity of girls’ basketball.

The Y-Wish hub in Swan Walk provides advice on jobs and apprenticeships for young people.

Racing driver Nick Padmore is a three-time winner of the FIA Masters Historic F1 championship.

CELEBRITY CIRCUS

Notes from the Editor: How the crazy world of PR offers a last resort

Ghostly goings on...brought to you by online poker!

Anyone who runs a business will testify that it’s difficult to take time off work. I’m fortunate in that I run a magazine published once a month, so there’s a degree of flexibility, compared to a shopkeeper or a plumber. Still, even a couple of days off means late nights catching up.

I’m fortunate in that I’ve not had a serious bout of illness in ten years. But this month I did come down with a cold that put me out action for a couple of days. It couldn’t have been the one the BBC labelled “the worst cold ever,” but was bad enough that I had tissues wedged up my nose, like a nasal Dracula. And I wondered what I would do about AAH if I ever found myself bed-ridden for a significant amount of time.

Since our first edition in 2011, we’ve made the effort to cover the local area properly.

We use submitted copy as the basis of the News Round-Up section, but the rest is our own work. The interview with racing driver Nick Padmore (p53) was conducted in Esquire’s Café in the Forum, we met Horsham Hawks (p43) on a cold, wet night at Collyer’s and sat and listened for two and a half hours as George Smith told us his life story (p19). But what if we were unable to do this for any reason?

One option is to do what some publications already do, and not actually bother writing our own articles. There are websites where you can pick and choose from hundreds of articles by freelancers, all with stock images of nothing in particular. Using just

one such website, I could have filled this edition with a beginner’s guide to wine, a crazy list of insurance claims, the top 60 women over 60 ranked, a travel feature on the rich culture of Papua New Guinea, a fashion piece on how to find a perfect pair of jeans, and of course, an interview with Ben Fogle. But there’s a problem with that approach, as these features may be published in many titles across the land.

Maybe then, it would be better to instead rely on the plethora of PR agencies desperate to get editorial coverage for the businesses they represent. Especially when some go to great lengths to find a topical angle - or a tenuous link to a celebrity - to make their press release stand out. Here are just some we received this month...

According to Design Bundles, online searches for oval engagement rings have risen by 500%. That’s hardly going to get editors excited, so they’ve angled the piece on Kourtney Kardashian, who has apparently been given a new oval-cut diamond ring by Travis Barker. Celebrity name-checking is also adopted by Divorce Answers, as they sent us tips for coping with divorce. This story was angled around Strictly It Takes Too presenter Rylan Clark, who was back to work “after rumours he’d suffered a breakdown following his split from husband Dan Neal.”

PR agencies don’t always rely on casual celebrity gossip though. Sometimes, they can do real investigative journalism. Well,

sort of. In the run-up to Halloween, we were sent results of a survey on the UK’s spookiest counties (from poker website Star5, bizarrely). Sussex comes in third with 44 UFO sightings and 438 paranormal sightings in the past year. Promoting gambling through the medium of ghosts... spooky!

On a Royal theme, the PR team at Compare My Move must have a lot of free time, as they’ve analysed 500 Royal-themed road names and discovered that properties there are more expensive than those in neighbouring areas. Finally, one of the great mysteries of our time put to bed! Another online gaming firm sent us a list of the most popular baby names. Not all babies mind you, as the top 100 are freely available on the National Statistics website and are used as a reliable “filler” article for many newspapers. No, just those relating to the fashion industry! If you’re wondering, Alexander is the most popular fashionrelated boy’s name “thanks to designers Alexander McQueen and Alexander Wang,” while it’s Bella for girls. Apparently that’s down to supermodel Bella Hadid, rather than the girl out of Twilight.

Whilst I mock, I’m aware some of you might be thinking that ghost polls and the Kardashians would make AAH much more exciting. However, it’s probably not a recipe for long-term success, as a good magazine needs original content. So if you ever see Ben Fogle on the cover, someone drop me a line. Just to check I’m okay…

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Horsham’s only co-educational independent school for ages 4 to 18

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NEWS ROUND-UP Announcements & Events from across the District

Naming ceremony at Bohunt School

Bohunt Horsham’s new, purpose-built school building was officially named at a ceremony on 7 October.

Neil Strowger, Trust Leader of Bohunt Education Trust (BET) and Georgette Ayling, Headteacher at Bohunt Horsham, were joined at the ceremony by David Skipp, Chair of Horsham District Council, Horsham

MP Jeremy Quin, Paul Mustow, Divisional Director from the Department for Education and around 30 other guests including architects, engineers, planners and students.

Bohunt Horsham has been based in temporary accommodation in Hurst Road, Horsham since 2019. The new school is

Dancing at the Drill Hall (@HDC/Horsham Museum)

Aladdin

The Horsham Branch of the Royal British Legion has been successful in its bid to lease the Drill Hall in Denne Road, Horsham. The RBL will use the hall as its headquarters, a social space for members and as a community facility. It will also invite Armed Forces charities, Cadet bodies and supporting organisations to use the facility. Early in 2020, Horsham District Council mooted plans to convert the historic hall into flats, triggering a public outcry and petitions to save the Drill Hall.

Following an independent review, HDC councillors granted approval for the RBL to lease the hall at a peppercorn rent.

The Capitol has announced the full cast and team for its production of Aladdin, running from 3 - 31 December. Toby Miles (Les Misérables & Mamma Mia!) plays Aladdin in a new adaptation by awardwinning Director Zoë Waterman. The family favourite also stars Rosie Cava-Beale (The Bodyguard UK Tour) as Princess Amirah, Dan Smith as Widow Twankey, Siobhan Athwal as SIRI/Genie of the Ring, Emma Ralston as Frankie Twankey, Antony Reed as Sultan and Cavin Cornwall as Abanazar.

A troupe of local children play the juvenile chorus. For tickets visit www.thecapitolhorsham.com

being built as part of a new 2,750-home estate on land off the A264, north of Horsham. The school is scheduled to open in January 2022, providing places for 1,620 pupils aged from 4 - 16 years old, including a nursery for 50 young children. www.bohunttrust.co.uk

Illustration of the new site (©RPS Group)

A planning application for a McDonald’s Drive-Thru restaurant has been submitted to Horsham District Council. It is proposed for the new Billingshurst Trade Park on Stane Street. The application outlines a dining area with up to 100 seats, more than 50 parking bays and dedicated cycle parking. A number of residents have objected, citing litter concerns and traffic problems caused by the company’s nearby Drive-Thru restaurant at Buck Barn. For details see the ‘View and Comment on Planning Applications’ page at www.horsham.gov.uk/planning/planningapplications, searching ‘DC/21/2206’

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Horsham Symphony Orchestra returns to the Capitol Theatre on Saturday 20 November, 7.30pm.

Celebrating the start of the HSO’s 50th anniversary season, the concert opens with Beethoven’s ‘6th Symphony’. After the interval the orchestra welcomes soloist Laurence Cuttriss for a performance of Françaix's ‘Clarinet Concerto’,

before the concert ends with Stravinsky’s ‘Firebird Suite’, marking the start of the orchestra’s exciting five-year Stravinsky Fest.

The concert is conducted by Steve Dummer, with the orchestra led by Rachel Ellis and Laurence Cuttriss.

Tickets £16 (U16s £5/Concessions £14) from www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Billingshurst Choral Society present its first concert under the leadership of new Music Director Marcio Da Silva at St Mary’s Church, Billingshurst on Saturday 20 November, 7.30pm. The programme combines the ‘Requiem’ and ‘Cantique de Jean Racine’ by Faure with a contemporary version of ‘Missa Brevis’ by Raminsh. Tickets £10 (children/students free) from billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir will perform Haydn’s ‘Creation’ at St Mary’s Church in the Causeway, Horsham on Saturday 20 November, 7.30pm. Soloists include bass Robert Davies, tenor Mark Bradbury and soprano Elin Manahan Thomas, who sang at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding. This will be the choir’s first concert under Musical Director Sean Bui. Tickets £15 from westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

Horsham Symphony Orchestra (©HSO/Toby Phillips Photography 2017) 8

Knowing you.

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Our services are available at competitive fixed prices, designed to give you easy access to specialist legal support when you need it most.

To find out more please contact: Gemma Spencer (Solicitor), or Sarah Kench (Solicitor), or Philip M Lansberry (Partner and Head of Legal) For all your business, tax and wealth needs Call: +44 (0)1403 253 282 Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com We adhere to the Covid-19 guidance by socially distance at meetings, conduct matters over telephone, email or virtually.

We can help you with: •Will writing •Setting up a trust •Probate and estate administration •Arranging lasting power of attorney

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2018

The Mediaeval Baebes are celebrating their 10th anniversary

Classical chart-topping choir Mediaeval Baebes present an evening of music, dance and theatre at St Mary’s Church in the Causeway, Horsham on Monday 20 December, 7pm. Celebrating their 25th anniversary year, the band will be accompanied by period instruments as they premiere compositions from latest album Prayers of the Rosary alongside new arrangements of Christmas favourites. The Mediaeval Baebes have released 10 albums and won an Ivor Novella Award for their performance on the BBC’s The Virgin Queen and two Emmy nominations alongside composer Martin Phipps for their soundtrack to ITV’s Victoria.

Tickets £25 from www.mediaevalbaebes.com

TOOVEY’S

Horsham District Twinning Association are holding a Carol Concert in English, German and French, featuring the Pleasure Singers, at the Unitarian Church, Worthing Road, Horsham (pictured) on Saturday 11 December, 7.30pm.

The concert, held subject to COVID guidelines, will be followed by mulled wine, Glu wine, stollen, mince pies, nibbles and light refreshments. www.horsham-twinning.org.uk

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2016

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Horsham Chamber Choir hosts a Christmas concert, Mother and Child, at St Mary’s Church, the Causeway, Horsham on Saturday 4 December, 4.30pm. Tickets £15 (U18s £7) from information@horsham-chamberchoir.org.uk or on the door.

There will be a Christmas Market at The Holbrook Club in Horsham on Sunday 7 November, 11am - 3pm.

There will be about 20 stalls offering personalised Christmas items as well as health and beauty products, books, dog gifts, toys and festive cards/tags.

Raffle in aid of Chestnut Tree House. Facebook VSMS: Virtual Shopping Market Stalls.

Banksy, Monkey Queen, limited edition screen-print, circa 2003, auctioned in our August sale of Prints & Posters for £19,000

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Carole Rupniak (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2017)

©Chrissie Brooks Photography

Two Horsham-based journalists have launched a podcast covering topics relevant to those living and working in the town. Sounding Out Horsham was created by Anna Hjalmarsson and Emma Eversham to put a spotlight on people who contribute to local life and providing a platform for discussion on topical issues.

Episodes have covered topics including mental health with psychologist Tara Quinn-Cirillo and caring for the environment with Sussex Green Living founder Carrie Cort. Emma said: “Horsham is wellserved for print media but I think it’s nice to hear peoples’ voices and be able to continue the story or discussion sometimes, which is what we aim to do through our podcast.” https://soundingouthorsham. podbean.com

Horsham Artists hosts a Christmas Art Market at The Barn, the Causeway, Horsham, on Saturdays 6 and 13 November, 10am – 4pm. The fair includes a varied range of original and hand-crafted work including paintings, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and sculptures.

There is no entry fair but visitors will be invited to donate to the Samaritans and to St George’s

Hospital Tooting, in memory of Carole Rupniak.

Carole, a long-standing member of Horsham Artists, sadly passed away on 12 October after a short battle with cancer. The Cowfold artist exhibited widely in the District and was featured in AAH in 2017. For details of artists involved in the Christmas Art Market, visit www.horshamartists.org

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The nation’s favourite PE teacher Joe Wicks visited Cottesmore School on 6 October as part of a tour promoting his new children’s picture book, The Burpee Bears. Cottesmore’s Pre-prep and Prep children enjoyed an energetic workout, followed by a story animatedly read by Joe, who then welcomed questions from pupils. Principal of Pre-prep Lottie Rogerson said: “We were fortunate enough to have special pre-signed tour editions of Joe’s book for all of the children that attended. It’s been fantastic welcoming Joe and his energy to Buchan Hill!”

All Saints C of E Primary School in Tylden Way, Horsham, has celebrated its 20th anniversary. Pupils and staff marked the occasion with a series of sponsored events, raising £2,535 for four local charities (Coco’s Foundation, Horsham Refugee Support Group, Springboard and Friends Reaching Out) as well as supporting the PTA. As part of the celebrations and to bring people together, a community prayer trail was created in school grounds. All Saints, which offers 15 Foundation places and 15 Community places each year, will be holding an Open Morning on Wednesday 17 November for September 2022 admissions. www.allsaints.w-sussex.sch.uk

Pop-Up Horsham opened at 7 West Street, Horsham on 2 November. The shop creates an opportunity to support creative local businesses founded during the pandemic. The initiative has been developed and is managed and run by Horsham District Council as part of its postCOVID Economic Recovery Strategy.

Participants can also take part in various business training programmes.

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DOOR-TO-DOOR* HOLIDAYS 2022 JANUARY Warners Bembridge Coast FEBRUARY The Menton Lemon Festival Snowdrops in the Cotswolds Warners Holme Lacy MARCH Secret Sites of Buckinghamshire Warners Cricket St. Thomas Spring in Sidmouth York & Harrogate Bury St. Edmunds Spring Seaside Mystery APRIL Cotswolds Murder Mystery The Best of Bristol Floriade & Keukenhof Gardens MAY The Malvern RHS Spring Show Highlights of the Northwest Great Highland Railways Steaming through the Wye Valley Orkney & the Castle of Mey Treasure Houses of Yorkshire JUNE Ireland Coast-to-Coast Perfect Pembrokeshire London from on high Summer in York Proud to be British Loch Lomond & the Trossachs Ilfracombe & RHS Rosemoor JULY Ship & Castle St. Mawes Oh, I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside

Tyrolean Alps & Fairytale Castles The Isle of Man Cider with Roses in Mid-Devon Houses & Gardens of the Peak District AUGUST Gorgeous Guernsey The Yorkshire Dales Brussels Carpet of Flowers Four Rivers Cruise with CroisiEurope Summer in Sidmouth The Loire Valley SEPTEMBER Kynren & Highlights of the Northeast Scenic Shropshire Highlights of Bavaria The Oberammergau Passion Play Highlands, Railways & Dolphins Mayrhofen Almabtrieb Festival OCTOBER Eastwood Hall Entertainment Break Autumn in the Lake District An Andorran Adventure Historic Canal Cruise Warners Nidd Hall NOVEMBER Sunday Night on the Prom Warners Studley Castle Chatsworth Christmas Market Thursford Christmas Spectacular Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre DECEMBER Dunster by Candlelight A Festive Break in Sidmouth Thursford Christmas Spectacular A West Country Christmas Christmas in Lake Garda

Horsham Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society (HAODS) presents the hit musical Sister Act at the Capitol, Horsham, on Tuesday 9 – Saturday 13 November. Based on the hit 1992 film, this comedy musical is filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a moving story. Tickets from £19 from (01403) 750220 or thecapitolhorsham.com

Lila-Ann Gray from Steyning has published her first book, The Lonely Christmas Tree, illustrated by Lancing artist Jean Darling. As a great-grandmother, Lila has had a burning desire to write children’s books for many years but hasn’t been able to fulfil the ambition until now. The story is about a little Christmas tree who finds himself left in the woods by his human family. He spends a year waiting for them to return on Christmas Eve. Lila is now working on a new series of books entitled The First Magical Adventure With Granny. The Lonely Christmas Tree is available on Amazon or for a signed copy email lillyloo21@gmail.com

Ballard & Shortall Funeral Directors, part of the UK’s oldest funeral directors C.P.J Field, hosts Music for the Mind, a charity fundraiser at the Drill Hall, Horsham on Friday 26 November, 7pm. Music comes from Paul Stanworth and Band, Mister Park and Leslie P George (pictured), who has performed backing vocals for the likes of Luther Vandross and George Michael. Refreshments and raffle in aid of Tourette’s Action and Mind. Tickets pre-booked from ballard.shortall.horsham@ cpjfield.co.uk

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Global 4 Communications Ltd, an independent communications provider based in Horsham, has been recognised at two major industry awards. Global 4 was voted Best Contact Centre Customer Solution at the Comms National Awards 2021, a prestigious night for the industry.

The judges recognised Global 4 for enabling a transformation to a 8x8 infrastructure with an integrated Cloud telephone system and bespoke in-house dialler at Bedford Insurance. The success came just weeks

after Global 4 were named Reseller Billing Team of the Year at the Billing People Awards 2021. It was also shortlisted for two other awards: Billing Revenue Growth Champion and Commitment to Customer Service. For over two decades, Global 4 has delivered tailored telecom solutions to businesses throughout the UK. Last year, it expanded into the residential market through established brands such as Home Telecom, Fleur Telecom and Eclipse Broadband. www.global4.co.uk

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NOT JUST TRAVEL SIMON CAVE

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2017

A Discovery Hub at Warnham Local Nature Reserve opened to the public on 25 October. The hub is a multi-functional space for visitors, with its octagonal design offering views of the Reserve’s Millpond. A new Shelley Wildlife Garden also opened.

Roundstone Caravans, based in Southwater since 1937, closed on 1 October. A message on its website attributes the closure to “circumstances beyond our control” causing “unprecedented constraints on our industry supply chain.” Nearby Raylands Country Park in Jackrells Lane will continue to trade as usual. www.raylandscountrypark.co.uk

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GEORGE A. SMITH

MY STORY: FROM POLICE CADETS TO THE SECRET SERVICE During an extraordinary career, Detective Chief Inspector George Smith worked in Counter Terrorism and was a fullyoperational MI5 officer. Now retired, the Horsham resident uses his experiences in the police force to write books in aid of a charity close to his heart. Here, in his own words, George describes his journey...

I joined the police as a cadet in Brighton Borough when I was 17. For two years, I went to college and trained internally too, with stints at social services and the probation service. I loved being a cadet, especially sailing at the Moray Sea School with the Outward Bound Trust, which I still support to this day.

I was fortunate to become the youngest detective in Sussex. I joined the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) as a Temporary Detective Constable (TDC) and at 23 was a fully-fledged DC. Four years later, I was a Detective Sergeant (DS), working in Shoreham before joining the Fraud Squad.

At 32, I was promoted to Detective Inspector (DI) with the grand title of Director of Detective Training Headquarters.

“I had no doubt Alfredo Astiz was evil, but we had no choice but to hand him back to Argentina.”

I was involved in the interrogation of Alfredo Astiz, an Argentinian commander who started the Falklands conflict by raiding South Georgia. They got the impression the British weren’t interested so raided the Falklands and then Margaret Thatcher sent in a task force. Astiz was arrested by the SAS and brought back to this UK by boat, which gave the government time to think.

I introduced the HOLMES system to Sussex Police. In the 1970s and early 80s, police forces across the UK had different ways of running murder investigations and there was a lack of communication. This was exposed during the Yorkshire Ripper case, when Peter Sutcliffe was interviewed by several forces but the information wasn’t shared. As a result, the Home Office created HOLMES (Home Office Large Major Enquiry System). The idea was that a DC in Sussex could walk into an incident room 300 miles away and know how everything works. The system proved to be very successful, but I did face resistance when setting up the training programme.

There were old sweats in the force who’d been running major investigations for years and didn’t like being told that things had to change.

Astiz was a senior officer at the Naval Mechanical School (known as ESMA), the base for torture and interrogation in Argentina. They did terrible things. ESMA would take prisoners bound hand and foot up in a plane and if they didn’t talk, would push them out and ask the next person.

Sweden and France wanted to interview Astiz about the disappearance of a Swedish student and two French nuns who were all held captive by ESMA and never seen alive again. It was a delicate political situation and the UK government decided not to hand the prisoner over, but still wanted to be helpful. They didn’t want the Army or Intelligence services involved, so decided that Astiz should be interviewed by a police officer. As I was Director of Detective Training, I was deemed knowledgeable in rules and procedures and got the call.

19

George (sat on bonnet) enjoyed excursions with the Outward Bound Trust (Photo courtesy of George Smith)

We went to a military facility in Chichester, where they built a secure unit consisting of a lounge, bedroom and a kitchen. Various newspapers were put in the room and we watched Astiz through two-way mirrors to confirm he understood English. During the interview, we asked only the questions given to us by France and Sweden. There was nothing about the Falklands conflict. We didn’t deviate, smile or ask additional questions. He refused to answer any of our questions, quoting the Geneva Convention.

He was a good-looking man who had the nickname the “blonde angel of death”. I had no doubt he was evil, but we had no choice

George oversees the introduction of new computer equipment in the police force (Photo courtesy of George Smith)

but to hand him back to Argentina. It was all a political game.

travelled home from up north and, apparently, found his father, step-mother and halfbrother dead at the night club. I can still picture the scene of devastation. I interviewed Teed along with a very good sergeant. We didn’t believe his story. We arrested him on suspicion of the murders, which weighed heavy on my mind. I remember going to bed at 4am and thinking, “this boy has found three of his family murdered and what sympathy have I shown him? I've arrested him!”

Four years ago, I was called by a director making a BBC documentary about the case.

They wanted me to take part, but I said “no” as the information was sensitive. I was surprised he had my 78-page interrogation statement in front of him. It had been made available under the Freedom of Information Act, so I took part in the documentary.

I became Detective Inspector (DI) at Shoreham. The most famous case I was involved with there was the Light House Club murders. A 19-year-old called Paul Teed

Another senior officer thought the murders were gang-related, so I needed more evidence to charge Teed. There was a

20

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George Smith at Sussex Police (Photo courtesy of George Smith)

warrant for his arrest in Bradford, on a lesser charge, so with my Sergeant, I drove Teed to Yorkshire. I don’t smoke, yet stopped at every service station and smoked with Teed like we were old mates. He’d been released from our murder investigation so wasn’t handcuffed, but we chatted about the case and he finally admitted he’d been responsible. He actually cried on my lap as he confessed. He signed a statement and although pleaded not guilty in court, was found guilty of the murders. After serving 23 years, he’s now a free man, having publicly admitted his guilt.

The famous crime writer Peter James spent two days with me at Brighton CID. He penned the DI Roy Grace series, which are mostly based in Sussex. He also co-wrote another book, Death Comes Knocking, which is based on true crimes. There’s a chapter on the Light House Club murders and it’s a bit embarrassing as he describes me as being “the Grace of his time. Quiet, intelligent and ruthlessly professional.”

At 37, I made Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) and was Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) on many murder investigations. Three years later I was recruited by MI5, becoming the first serving police officer to be an operational MI5 officer. The Home Secretary gave special dispensation to suspend my police rank. As a police officer, you have a duty to respond to a crime being committed, whether on or off duty. With the security services, the objective is often to observe and gain information.

By suspending my police rank, I wasn’t legally obliged to intervene when confronted with crime.

I worked in counter espionage and although it’s natural to think of James Bond, my experience was nothing like that. It is strange working with a secret identity though! One of the more unusual incidents was meeting a KGB defector, alongside agents from the CIA and FBI. The Russians often like English customs, so we actually went to a country pub. From experience, I know it’s best to stay sober on operations, so I would subtly pour away my pint in the gents toilets.

The Russian drank a lot and was singing along to the jukebox. He was still singing as we left the pub and a police car slowed down to check us out. It didn’t stop, which is a relief as it would have been difficult to explain!

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“Had the bomb detonated, many people would have died and I’d still be answering questions about it now.”

Later, I was involved with Counter Terrorism Command in the UK and Ireland. One incident I particularly recall involved pedal cycle bombs. Although I was Head of Brighton CID, I was Duty Command that Sunday in August 1994.

We had a tip-off that two IRA bombs had been planted; one on Brighton Pier and one in Bognor. We cleared the pier but hundreds of people were milling around the entrance. We then received word that the bomb in Bognor had gone off in the saddlebag and an officer noticed a bike chained to a lamppost by the pier, amongst the crowd. We got everyone away and the bomb disposal team defused it. Luck was on our side that day. Had it detonated, many people would have died and I’d still be answering questions about it now.

I rarely discussed my job with my wife, Jill. She used to joke that she only knew what I did by reading the news. For me, the most important thing has always been my front door key. I didn’t bring work home. Of course, there are things that affect you. I remember dealing with a tragic case of cot death and for a long time after would check on our young children as they slept. Being a parent changes you. I remember attending a post mortem of a little girl and seeing the pathologist gently place her Teddy on a nearby shelf: as if watching over her. I still feel emotional talking about it.

22

There used to be a social club at Brighton Police Station with a decent restaurant.

After a difficult case, it was a place the team could meet and talk. Unfortunately, there are no social clubs anymore and, in my view, the force is poorer for it. Yes, we have counselling services, but talking with colleagues in a social setting helped a lot.

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My late mother asked if I’d speak to her Women’s Institute group and I agreed.

For the first time, I looked back at my career and it dawned on me how little my family knew of my life in the police force. That triggered the idea of writing a book. I’d always thought it impossible, as much of what I’d done was classified information. But Dame Stella Rimington, former Director General of MI5, had become a successful author without breaking the Official Secrets Act. So perhaps it was possible.

My first book, A Secret Existence, tells the story of Ben Swan, a young DCI working in Counter Terrorism in Ireland before he’s recruited by MI5. In many respects, I was adapting my notes into a work of fiction, so it is inspired by real events. I enjoyed writing it, but when a

George with his two books (©AAH/Alan Wright)

When I retired in 2010, I wanted a new adventure. As a boy, I spent two amazing summers exploring Ramsay Island in Pembrokeshire. Ever since, I’ve dreamed of owning an island. I looked into the possibility of buying a Scottish island, but it wasn’t feasible. Instead, I bought 22 acres of Sussex woodland and became a nature anorak, taking a woodland management course, an off-road driving course in my Land Rover, and becoming a Trustee of the National Woodland Owners’ Association.

completed copy arrived from the publisher, I felt like hiding behind the sofa! There’s a sense of embarrassment in putting your story out there for judgement.

I’ve now written a sequel – Killers, Assassins & Spies. All royalties from both books are being donated to St Catherine’s Hospice in Crawley.

The charity is currently supporting my daughter, who has terminal cancer. She’s an amazing lady. From the outset of her illness she would say to family and friends: “My cancer is the least interesting thing about me. Visit me for coffee. Talk about holiday and

children. Not my cancer!” I hope people will find my books enjoyable, but more importantly, in buying a copy you will be helping a very worthy charity.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT/GEORGE SMITH A Secret Existence and Killers Assassins & Spies by George A. Smith can be purchased from Amazon Books.

For more about St Catherine’s Hospice visit www.stch.org.uk 23

Kevin, Terrie and Marilyn at an Olive Tree session at Total Therapy Studios, Horsham (© AAH/Alan Wright)

24

OLIVE TRE CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE EXPANDS SERVICES INTO HORSHAM Olive Tree Cancer Support Centre has played a vital role in Crawley’s community for more than 30 years. Now, the centre has expanded into Horsham, supporting all those affected by cancer.

With the charity having recently received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, AAH met Marilyn Drury (Information and Support Centre Manager), Terrie Stephens (Care Support Worker), Sarah DoverMcCarthy (founder of Total Therapy Studios, which supports the Olive Tree), Kerry Cameron (Holistic Therapist) and volunteers Kevin Murdock and Sarah Brocklehurst, both volunteers in remission.

Marilyn: The Olive Tree was founded by Heather Goddard, a breast cancer patient, more than 30 years ago. Heather was a Horsham resident who was involved in a pilot study at the Bristol Cancer Help Centre, which pioneered alternative and complementary therapies for cancer patients. Upon returning to Horsham, Heather formed a group that embraced the same concepts. It was called Crawley Cancer Contact, even though it was based at her house. After two years, it applied for charitable status, became the Olive Tree and has been based within the grounds of Crawley Hospital ever since.

Marilyn: In recent years, it has become apparent that there’s a similar need in Horsham. The town has a slightly older age demographic without an abundance of

cancer support services. We approached Macmillan, proposing to offer what we do in Crawley in Horsham too and their support has been important.

Terrie: I am a Cancer Support Worker and my job at the Olive Tree is funded by Macmillan Cancer Support. Because of this, people sometimes assume we receive all our funding from Macmillan. But that isn’t the case. The Olive Tree is an independent charity that relies on donations, fundraising, grants and corporate support. However, Macmillan’s support is invaluable as they fund volunteer training, as well as my role here for three years.

Marilyn: Our services break down to three main areas. The first is emotional support, provided through our counsellors. We then

have complementary therapies, an addition to chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments patients receive through the NHS. These include massage, reflexology, acupuncture, hypnotherapy and yoga and can be vital to a person’s wellbeing and recovery. We also offer general information that can help. Rather than clinical and medical material provided by the NHS, this could include pension advice or how patients can get travel insurance.

Terrie: I first got involved with cancer care after my nephew was diagnosed with leukaemia when he was six. Sadly, he passed away and I had some counselling. My sister has secondary breast cancer and uses the Olive Tree too, so I volunteered to help in any way I can. Once you’re involved, you want to do more, as you can see the difference it makes.

EE Yoga instructor Annja Haynes (© AAH/Alan Wright)

“When you hear the C word for the first time, it knocks you off your feet and chemotherapy takes over your life.”

Kevin: I was diagnosed with cancer five years ago and underwent 18 months of chemotherapy.

It was scary, as I didn’t know what to do and was bombarded with things to read. I was referred to the Olive Tree and the support they gave helped a lot during a very emotional time.

When you hear the C word for the first time, it knocks you off your feet and chemotherapy takes over your life. So just to talk to people who’ve been there and done it was important

25

An Olive Tree yoga class (©AAH/Alan Wright)

to my recovery. That’s why I volunteer now.

Two days a week, I do whatever needs to be done, whether it’s talking to patients to offer reassurance, or just making the tea.

It’s my way of giving something back.

Sarah B: My father-in-law died of cancer in 2003, followed two years later by my mother-in-law. Then in 2007 my father had cancer and passed away. So when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, I thought that was it; I was going to die. Like everybody in that situation, I felt overwhelmed. I was given lots of information and among it all was a leaflet on the Olive Tree. I spoke to a volunteer and it was good

The Olive Tree runs complementary therapy sessions (©AAH/Alan Wright)

just to be able to talk and get things off my chest. It can be hard speaking to family and friends about cancer, so it’s good to speak to someone who’s been through it.

Terrie: As a support care worker, I speak to patients one-to-one, which can be very emotional. Some come to us with a very positive outlook, determined to beat cancer.

Others don’t know who to turn to for help.

As well as counselling, we offer hypnotherapy and other complementary therapies run by volunteers, some of whom have worked with the Olive Tree for years.

26

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Marilyn: We were looking for our own space in Horsham for therapy sessions. We came close to a deal but it fell through. Then out of the blue we were called by Sarah and Dom at Total Therapy Studios, offering exactly what we wanted! We’ve been working together since June and they’ve been a joy to work with.

Sarah D-M: I founded Total Therapy in 1999 and moved the business to Denne Parade in 2012. Dom joined the business six years ago, when it became too big for me to manage alone. Having started with physiotherapy classes, we expanded to offer holistic treatments including reflexology and

acupuncture. We found a second premises in the Carfax, which would allow us to separate strength and conditioning classes from meditation classes. We were due to open in April 2020, but COVID struck. It has been challenging because a lot of our therapists had to seek employment elsewhere.

We’re building back up now, but for a long time we were restricted in terms of what we were allowed to do. So I contacted the Olive Tree and it has blossomed into a wonderful partnership. Several of our therapists volunteer for them, including yoga instructor Annja. The Olive Tree are here on Tuesdays and Thursdays and we’re already talking about doing more in future.

Kerry: I'm a holistic therapist by occupation and provide voluntary massage and facial treatments for the Olive Tree. I’m hoping to offer foot massages and maybe nail cutting soon as well. One of my best friends died of cancer when I was 35 and I looked after her for five years. I had to get myself in a good place and find volunteering helps me. It feels good to give back something back.

“It can be hard speaking to family and friends about cancer, so it’s good to speak to someone who’s been through it.”

Sarah B: What’s nice is that people find different ways of helping the charity. I’m now 11 years in remission and having seen how the Olive Tree transforms lives, I’ve used my experience to help in any way I can. I’ve helped organise fundraising events, contributed to the redesign of the website and helped build a presence on social media as we try to spread word through the Horsham District about what we offer, not just for cancer patients by also their family, carers, supporters and even close friends and colleagues. It’s important that we work closely with GP surgeries too.

Kerry Cameron offers holistic therapy at the Olive Tree (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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Marilyn: Everyone knows GPs are frantically busy, but we can help ease the burden. When people are diagnosed with cancer, they move from the primary care sector (where they see their GP) to the secondary sector (where they go to hospital). When they no longer require acute care, it can be difficult for patients to access the help and support they need, as they no longer have that close connection to their GP. They’ve been under the protective care of the NHS and are suddenly left thinking, “Who is looking out for me now?” When they have a problem, they go to their GP, which often isn’t necessary. That’s where the Olive Tree can help.

Terrie: When people finish chemotherapy, they do experience different side effects and every little thing can make you think that the cancer has returned.

Although we’re not medical professionals and will refer people straight away if necessary, in mant instances can provide reassurances and prevent the need to see a doctor.

Hypnotherapy treatments are provided at the Olive Tree (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Kevin: I’m now in remission, but what I wasn’t told about by

28

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medical professionals is the side effects. I suffer from peripheral neuropathy in my feet, to the extent that it sometimes feels like I’m walking on Lego bricks. The Olive Tree provides me with reflexology treatments which relieves a lot of the pain.

Kerry: Coming here on Thursdays is a highlight of my week. I see it as a privilege to offer therapy and like building a rapport with patients. You end up chatting a lot, so there’s an element of emotional support too. Although I don’t understand cancer from a medical point of view, I can share my own experiences of caring for someone and that can help. It’s a lovely environment too, as they’re a great team. Kevin comes in with a cup of tea every hour and they’re all a pleasure to work with!

INTERVIEWS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: www.olivetreecancersupport.org.uk 01293 534465 office@olivetreecancersupport.org.uk OliveTreeCancerSupportCentre OliveTreeCSC

Our Four Promises for Wealdcross At Thakeham, our mission is to change the way people think about sustainable community creation. It’s a simple focus that describes our passion for affecting people’s lives in a positive way. As a local developer, that passion burns even more brightly when we’re creating a legacy for the people we live and work alongside, right here in Horsham District.

■ The £4 million Woodgate Primary School opened in September this year

1. A Better Future for Families in Horsham District

2. The Infrastructure and Homes You Deserve

School run congestion will be eased thanks to a new secondary school and two new primary schools. (Currently students travel from Southwater to Crawley). Thakeham will gift a new indoor sports hall and mixed use 3G/4G pitches for schools and the local community, together with a new country park and village green.

Of course, school children throughout Wealdcross can also look forward to the Eddie and Ellie programme which will be delivered in the new schools.

Wealdcross will offer a range of off-site highway improvements. up and down the A24. This includes a new northern access junction serving as the main site access, together with a new southern access junction at Buck Barn as secondary access, improving traffic flow on the A24. We are also looking at junction improvements from Washington, up to the Great Daux roundabout on the A24, and all junctions in between.

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Wealdcross will deliver policy-compliant affordable housing for local people. This is about giving young people the chance to achieve their dream of home ownership, for the families on the housing register aspiring for better accommodation, the homeless taking their first steps into secure housing, the opportunity for older people to downsize. Wealdcross will deliver a mix of homes for everyone in Horsham District.

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Local track record for delivering

Primary and secondary education

As part of encouraging a sustainable future, all homes will have fast car charging points and we will provide a £3,000 incentive towards an electric car on house purchase, and further incentives for e-bikes too.

Wealdcross will also be the place for greener travel, with interlinking cycle routes and secure cycle storage for apartments and houses.

There’s a pedestrian-friendly village centre, and the new primary and secondary schools on-site means car use is greatly reduced.

When people want to travel further afield, Wealdcross will also be integrated into the local bus network.

Local wildlife is centremost in our thoughts too. Wealdcross will enhance the environment with a 20% improvement in biodiversity, including 4.2km of new hedgerows as biodiversity corridors, and acres of new country park, bringing people closer to nature.

In a milestone for Sussex, Thakeham will also build a much-wishedfor £5m pedestrian-free green bridge over the four lane A24, buffered from the development to eliminate any disturbance.

The bridge takes inspiration from best examples in the world, including the Scotney Bridge across the A21 in Kent.

The Wealdcross green bridge is designed with the best features to help connect wildlife and bring biodiversity corridors from Climping in the South and St. Leonard’s in the North one step closer to reality.

Community owned facilities

A new country park and a range of sports facilities

High quality design and delivery

• £5m pedestrian-free green bridge over the A24 to support and sustain wildlife and biodiversity • 20% biodiversity net gain, with 4.2km of new hedgerows adding to biodiversity corridors • Policy-compliant affordable housing for local people • Zero carbon emissions from the production and operation of all Thakeham homes • A range of off-site highway improvements including new northern access junction from the A24 • Fast electric car charging points for every home • A new secondary school, two new primary schools, a local centre with healthcare provision • Gifted shops, cafe, co-workspace, allotments and new community businesses • Significant commercial space for new jobs and businessess • A new indoor sports hall and mixed use 3G/4G pitches for schools and the local community

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TUNNEL VISION

SCOUTS ENJOY FIRST EXPERIENCE OF NEW CAVING FACILITY

33

Children enjoy the new cave at Beacon Hill campsite (Photo courtesy of Ken Woods)

An artificial cave has opened at the Horsham District Scouts’ campsite at Beacon Hill, Colgate.

The facility was built after a remarkable fundraising effort by the Scouting community in honour of Paul Dold, a Scout Leader who tragically died in a diving accident in 2016, aged only 43.

Having been Scouts as children, both Paul and twin brother Martin became Leaders, with Paul passing on his passion for caving to countless others, leading Scouting groups on underground expeditions. He was also a member of the West Sussex Scouts’ Caving Team One and was involved in teams that surveyed and mapped entire cave networks. A fundraising page set up in his memory raised thousands for the Cornish Air Ambulance, the South-East Cave Rescue Organisation and Horsham District Scouts.

After discussions about what to do with its share of the money, the Scouts decided that a caving experience would be the perfect way to commemorate Paul’s service to Scouting. Although the fund had contributed £3,000, enquiries revealed that a bespoke artificial cave system would cost in the region of £110,000. The Scouting community got to work, applying for grants, appealing for donations and holding fundraisers to turn the dream into a reality. And on Saturday 9 October, the cave was declared open.

Martin Dold says, “Everybody who attended was involved in the project in some way, as the day was our small way of saying ‘thank you’ for what has been a monumental effort. When we first looked into the costs, we figured we’d need at least £110,000 for a bespoke cave system to sit within a 6m x 10m building on a concrete footing.”

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“It seemed impossible, but we held a fundraising event where youngsters tried cardboard caving, wriggling through tunnels of boxes taped together! It was great fun and raised an incredible amount of money, helped by an anonymous parent price matching what was raised and then adding more on top! Having such an incredible start to our fundraising galvanised everyone.”

“We received individual donations from within the Scout community including one of £1,000. Gatwick Airport Community Trust contributed £1,500 and the One Stop’s Community Partnership programme added another £1,000.

Horsham District Scouts donated another £10,000 and with so much momentum, others did all they could to chip in. Children were contributing their pocket money and my daughter had her hair cut, raising another £500.”

EMOTIONAL DAY

Paul’s daughter Imogen, twin brother Martin and mother Beryl at The Cave (Photo courtesy of Ken Woods) 34

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A breakthrough came when specialist caving magazine Descent published an article about the Scouts’ efforts. It was seen by the Director of one of the

Paul Dold on a caving expedition (Photo courtesy of Martin Dold)

largest artificial cave companies, who made contact. He had sold a cave system with 180m of tunnels and tubing to an indoor entertainment venue that was now looking to sell it secondhand at a reduced price. the only problem was, it was in Oman…

“It presented a logistical challenge for us to get the cave system back to the UK,” says Martin. “We were also tight on funds and couldn’t cover the cost of the cave and the shipping.

However, we found a solution that made it viable. The company selling it agreed to design a cave for our building and we were able to sell on the surplus tunnels, generating another £10,000 enough to ship the facility in three containers.”

Thoughts turned to the building in which to hold the tunnel and its concrete foundations. The scouts successfully applied for Section 106 funds, money contributed by housing developers for the Council to spend on community projects. This covered almost the entire cost for an insulated metal-framed building with secure doors.

The Kier Group and Lewes-based groundworks specialists GPB Construction Ltd provided all of the manpower and machinery needed to construct the concrete padding free of charge, saving the scouts as estimated £10,000.

Martin says, “We completed the whole project for about £55,000 thanks to the phenomenal generosity of businesses, organisations and individuals.”

“The opening was an emotional one for me and Paul’s family.

Rather than a traditional ribboncutting event, Imogen instead unclipped caving carabiners, which is fitting as it honours her dad’s commitment to the Scouting movement. We are blessed to have the Beacon Hill site, set in 36 acres on the outskirts of St Leonard’s Forest.

But aside from its natural beauty, it hasn’t previously offered activities. Now the campsite has another asset for Scouting groups.”

“The cave simulates real scenarios and teaches skills that can be transferred into natural settings.”

CAVING CHALLENGE The facility has already been booked by 50 Scouting groups including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Brownies and Guides, with sessions run by trained Leaders.

Tucked within the building are 66m of passageways including two chambers, one of which is filled with 9,000 balls to simulate a flooded passageway that youngsters have to “swim” through to get out.

Martin said: “It has tight twists and turns, and dark tunnels to crawl through, as the intention is that it teaches skills that can be transferred into natural cave settings. For some, being in a claustrophobic space is scary, so they need to overcome their fear and use teamwork to get through it. We find that when they do pluck up the courage to try, they tend to emerge at the end having conquered their fear, desperate to have another go! Seeing their faces as they emerge absolutely bouncing makes all the effort worthwhile.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: KEN WOODS/ HORSHAM DISTRICT SCOUTS

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Scouts enjoy The Cave on opening day (Photo courtesy of Ken Woods)

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A GLASS APART

THE STUNNING JEWELLERY OF COWFOLD ARTIST JANE COLE

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Jane Cole at her home studio (© AAH/Alan Wright)

Jane Cole is a glass artist who designs unique items at her home studio on the St Hugh’s Charterhouse estate, near Cowfold.

Jane studied at West Surrey College of Art and Design, where she specialised in glass design. “Even at school, I knew I wanted to focus on three-dimensional objects rather than fine art or illustration,” she said. “It was the alchemy element of working with glass that appealed, and the fact glass is inherently beautiful. Even in its original form it possesses rich and sparkling colours, so you almost can’t go wrong!”

Meditative Process...

Expert Tuition...

After taking a break from art after the birth of her daughter, Kathryn, Jane developed her skills with tuition from Sarah Downton, a local artist renowned for contemporary glass work. With new confidence, Jane spent six months literally playing with fire, developing her own style while building up a stock of products. “When I started out as an artist after college, I created big items from fused glass, such as plates and bowls.

Now, I prefer making smaller items of jewellery including pendants, bracelets, necklaces and earrings.”

Jane starts each piece with coloured glass rods which are placed under a flame. At around 950 degrees, the glass is soft enough to bend and shape to its intended design. A range of tools are used to press, stretch or otherwise manipulate the glass to the required shape, before it is put in the kiln and cooled. “It’s a delicate process,” said Jane. “You need to be careful not to heat the glass too quickly, otherwise it will shatter, or overheat glass to the extent that it drips.

Once heated, turned glass forms a natural sphere so it becomes quite an absorbing, meditative process.”

A Tough Match...

The technique lends itself to the fusing of different coloured glass to create swirling blends or intricate patterns, as seen in Jane’s range of products.

As someone who enjoys her rural surroundings, much of her work is inspired by nature. “Some glass artists like to work in the Millefiori style, creating decorative patterns in the glass. But I don’t try to be pictorial or represent things in an accurate way; I just take inspiration from nature, be it the colours of the sea or autumnal leaves, creating similar blends of colours. The finished piece doesn’t always come out how I imagined.

Sometimes when you’re heating glass, you see a vibrant mesh of glowing orange, red and yellow, and think it’ll turn out beautifully. Then it comes out of the kiln as a lifeless brown piece.

What is true is that no two pieces come out the same. When I make earrings, I try to get them as close to matching as possible, but often need to make more than two!”

Good Combination...

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Although Jane usually works with glass rods, she also reuses windows and stained-glass when it can be sourced. Crushed glass is also used to create additional effects and patterns in her work. Jane has developed techniques that allow her to use different metals too, for sculptural pieces for the home and garden. She said: “I learnt how to thread glass beads on to silver wire and keep them in place, which made me wonder which other materials I could use. I’ve since used copper, steel and zinc, allowing me to make a wider range of items from bottle stoppers to weatherproof sculptures. Metal and glass complement each other and make an eye-catching combination.”

Public Endorsement...

Art is not a full-time occupation for Jane, as she works as a part-time carer for Cherish Care, based in Henfield, and volunteers with St John Ambulance one day a week as a vaccinator. However, she sells her glass art both online and at art fairs and shops.

Her work was recently exhibited at Sussex Prairie Gardens and can also be found at The Village Hub in Storrington. Jane is a member of Horsham Artists too and will be exhibiting at the group’s Christmas Art Market in

November (see News Round-Up section). Jane said: “I don't really enjoy shows and exhibitions, as I’m not a great talker. But it’s always nice when people say positive things about your work.

When someone likes what you make, it’s an endorsement. When they buy it, it’s even more so!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: www.janecoleglass.co.uk janecoleglass@btinternet.com janecoleglass

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Flexible Working Consultation –

what does it mean for employees?

Nigel Targett, Employment Partner at Coole Bevis looks at the Government’s proposals to reform flexible working regulations.

The Government has launched a consultation seeking views on proposals to reform the rules around the right to request flexible working. The consultation closes on 1 December 2021.

What are employees’ rights to flexible working currently?

At present, employees do not have the right to request flexible working until they have completed 26 weeks of continuous service with their employer. Importantly, this is a right to request and not a right to be granted a flexible working arrangement.

Furthermore, employees may only make one request per year.

As it stands, an employer must consider the request and reply within three months. They may decline the request, citing any of the following reasons: • Extra costs that will be a burden on the business • The work cannot be reorganised among other staff • People cannot be recruited to do the work

• Flexible working will negatively affect quality • Flexible working will negatively affect performance • The ability to meet customer demand will be negatively affected • There is a lack of work to do during the proposed working times • The business is planning structural changes The consultation was promised by the current Government in its 2019 manifesto and the subsequent impact of the pandemic and working practices has brought the issue more clearly into focus.

More people are looking for flexible working arrangements

Call: 07398 311633 Email: nigel.targett@coolebevisllp.com www.coolebevislaw.com

What is being considered in the consultation?

The intention of the consultation is to modernise working practices and enable employees to find a better balance between their work and home life. As such, it considers a number of proposals, including giving employees the right to request flexible working from day one of their employment, whether the reasons for declining (as stated left) remain valid and whether an employee should be able to make a request more than once a year. It is proposed that if an employer cannot accommodate a request, as can be the case, they should think about what alternatives could be offered.

A range of flexible working methods are available, including job-sharing, flexitime, compressed, annualised and staggered hours, and phased retirement – in addition to working from home.

The Government has also announced that it intends to introduce legislation next year to make it easier for carers to balance their caring responsibilities with work.

It remains to be seen what impact the consultation will have on employer’s attitudes to flexible working, however, it is a positive step forward for millions of employees. Please contact me if you would like advice on flexible working or any employment related matter.

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Horsham Hawks girls’ development session at Collyer’s College (© AAH/Alan Wright)

HOOP DREAMS

HORSHAM HAWKS INVEST IN DEVELOPING THE GIRLS’ GAME Although basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world in terms of active participants, its success in the UK has tended to fluctuate.

HUGE POTENTIAL One of those people is Brenda Holden, who first became involved when her son and daughter joined the club. Both had quit swimming and Brenda told them they had to take up another sport instead, and the Hawks fit the bill.

Occasionally, the game will enjoys a resurgence as youngsters are inspired by a legendary player – like Michael Jordan in the 1990s – or dreams of Olympic glory – as was the case after London 2012.

Now, as the sport recovers from the impact of COVID, Basketball England hopes to encourage up to a million people to play the game by investing in courts and clubs at grass roots level. Horsham Hawks is among clubs benefitting from diversity funding provided by the governing body, securing £1,500 to promote the girls’ game.

The Hawks have made the money go a long way; having already rebranded with a new logo and kit, the club purchased new balls and training equipment, and hosted free coaching sessions for a girls’ development team at Collyer’s College. These sessions are continuing, led by ex-Hawks players India

Belfield and Teagan Holden, who are both taking coaching qualifications too, thanks to the recent funding.

India said: “When I first joined the Hawks, it was a strong club with great strength in depth. After London 2012, everyone wanted to take up a sport and basketball was very popular. Now Basketball England is pushing new initiatives like the 3x3 game with six players on half a court. This has generated fresh excitement and it feels like the Hawks has a new lease of life with different people driving it forward.”

“Basketball keeps children fit and healthy, and it’s fun too,” said Brenda. “The social interactions they experience are key to maintaining mental wellbeing too. The Hawks has always been a family-run club with a welcoming environment. However, by the time COVID hit, some coaches who had served the club for a long time were moving on, as their own children had grown up and were heading to college or university.”

“Sports clubs survive on the passion of parents, but we didn’t have the same strength in numbers as we used to and are now in the process of rebuilding under coaches Dominic, Eduardo, Nick, my son Ethan, and of course Teagan and India.”

43

“The adrenaline rush that comes from running down the court to receive a pass is amazing!”

Teagan Holden

44

It is hoped that the development sessions will lead to a girls’ junior team (© AAH/Alan Wright)

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Hawks coaches Teagan Holden and India Belfield (© AAH/Alan Wright)

“This funding to the girls’ game will make a huge difference. The Hawks has always been a community-minded club and we have players from many different cultures, representing basketball as an international game. But what was missing was girls and we’re rectifying that. We’ve had some fantastic girls in the past and some have gone on to American universities on basketball scholarships. So there’s huge potential for girls to follow that same path in future.”

GROWING TEAMS This season, Horsham Hawks hope to enter two teams at U12, as well as an U14, U16 and U18 team, two men’s teams (one being a social side) and a ladies team. The girls’ development sessions could lead to an U12 side and potentially inspire more girls’ teams across the junior leagues.

Girls have previously had to play with boys in mixed teams at the Hawks with only the best able to

compete, leading to a shortage of players in the Ladies divisions.

India, who has played in the National league for Sevenoaks Suns and Worthing Thunder and now plays for Horsham Hawks Ladies, said: “In the U12 and U14 leagues, girls are often taller than boys and do very well. At U16s, boys suddenly shoot up and to compete, girls have to play more tactically.”

“This funding from Basketball England means we can develop a girls’ development side, which hopefully can fuel our ladies’ team in future. But right now it’s just about encouraging more girls to play. Some don’t want to play mixed sessions, as boys can dominate and that can be intimidating. So it’s great to be able to offer an environment where girls are comfortable.”

“It feels like something good is happening here. Every week we see a couple of new faces and gradually us coaches are getting to know the girls better and seeing improvement in their skill levels.”

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45

Hawks coach Dominic Evans (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Girls develop dribbling skills (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Basketball helps develop coordination skills (©AAH/Alan Wright)

ADRENALINE RUSH

46

Of the 24 youngsters who attended the free girls’ development sessions in the summer, more than half are still at the club, with female-led coaching sessions one of the reasons behind this success. India is a newly-qualified primary school teacher and finds these skills transfer to the court. And Teagan Holden, who won the National league with Brighton Cougars after coming through the Hawks’ junior system, says that the friendly atmosphere makes a difference.

Teagan said: “I think the girls are more open with two female coaches and willing to get involved. As we’re still young, perhaps we can relate to them too and that leads to trust, which in turn makes them feel comfortable.”

“I would encourage anyone interested in the game to come along and try it.

Personally, I loved netball at school and some of the skills are transferable.

But basketball requires a different attitude, as it’s played at a faster pace.

The adrenaline rush that comes from running down the court to receive a pass is an amazing feeling! I suppose basketball isn’t very feminine from a traditional point of view, but girls are changing!”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information: Horsham Hawks run girls’ development sessions at Collyer’s College, Hurst Road, Horsham, at 7.30 - 9pm. www.horshamhawksbasketball.com horshamhawks @HawksHorsham horshambasketball

Hear Better - Feel Better New “mask mode” features

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

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

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48

Y-WISH

THE HDC SUPPORT HUB HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE FIND JOBS A Youth Employment Support Hub has opened in Swan Walk, Horsham. The Y-Wish hub is run

by Horsham District Council with the aim of helping 18 to 24-year-olds find work. AAH meets Leigh Chambers (Economic Development Officer for Employment Skills at HDC) and Clare Holt (Y-Wish Support Officer) to find out more…

Is this a new scheme?

The Y-Wish hub is new, although it’s an addition to established initiatives. Back in 2012, there were about a million young people not in work or education, so the government launched an incentive to Get Britain Working.

In Horsham, we piloted a project supported by the government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) which we called Journey to Work. This involved the Council partnering with Jobcentre Plus to find work for young people. The scheme is ongoing and has been a great success, helping nearly 500 people find work.

So what’s the Y-Wish hub?

Although we advertise jobs and careers services on the HDC website, as well as host annual events like the Jobs and Skills Fair, we wanted to have a place where young people could drop-in at any time to talk to someone. So we set-up the Y-Wish hub opposite Wilko in Swan Walk. It’s a one-stop shop where young people can speak to a Job Support Officer about employment and training opportunities in the Horsham District. The service is confidential and free.

Why target young people?

Everyone has been affected by the pandemic, with many losing their job and nine million placed on furlough at its peak. But young people have been harder hit than most as they often work in the “gig economy” of retail and hospitality. The number of 18 to 24-year-olds out of work shot up, as they lost jobs before they’d even had a chance to establish themselves. Suddenly, they were stuck indoors in lockdown and in danger of becoming the lost generation.

So the government is investing in initiatives to create more opportunities.

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Final chance for a fixed rate bargain?

We have seen a number of lenders increase rates over the last week or so. We have seen SWAP rates (the mechanism through which lenders can acquire a fixed price for funding over a specific period of time) start to creep upwards and as such lenders are re-pricing accordingly.

HUB What kind of opportunities?

Because of our Journey to Work scheme, we have an established partnership with Jobcentre Plus. Young people are often referred to us from the Jobcentre as our Support Officers can help them write a CV, prepare for interviews, identify jobs that match their experience and interests, and find training courses to boost their chances of finding work.

Often, it’s just a matter of talking and offering guidance, as many young people don’t know what they want to do as a career. We discuss their skills, qualifications and experience and look at all options in terms of employment, apprenticeships or further education.

Can’t these be found online?

When you search jobs online, there’s so much information that it’s hard to know where to begin. It can be overwhelming!

By using the Y-Wish hub, young people can get a feel for what’s around locally. Coming out of the pandemic, a lot of people have lost confidence and just talking to someone can help.

You don’t need to know what you want to do; options often reveal themselves just through a conversation.

Is mental health and wellbeing part of the conversation?

Young people face many mental health challenges, which is why we have a holistic

The Y-Wish hub in Swan Walk (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Some ‘pundits’ have recently suggested that the Bank of England base rate may increase in the coming month or two, but no one knows for sure. Just keep an eye on things if you are looking for a long-term fixed rate bargain and don’t wait until ‘tomorrow’.

There is another important term I think worthy of mentioning now and this is ‘Payment Shock’. It describes the potential increase in monthly mortgage payments when an incentive period, for example a fixed rate, comes to an end and the mortgage moves to the lenders standard variable rate.

49

If you are sitting on a variable rate waiting for rates to go lower, we’re probably there or thereabouts.

It is worth reflecting that a one per cent uplift on a mortgage of £200,000 may mean a monthly increase of circa £166 and, in many cases the rate may well increase substantially more than this. Imagine the impact of a two or three per cent rise! Not unusual if the lender’s standard variable rate is in the late four per cent range. We know one that’s over six per cent!

So always ensure you know what the monthly payments are today, but also what they will change to when your promotional product comes to an end, should you not be able to change rates or switch lender at a later date.

Finally, if you are sitting on a lender’s variable rate waiting for rates to go lower, I’d say we’re probably there or thereabouts.

People are talking about rate rises in the press and on the TV, and once that happens, eventually they come. So maybe now is the time to act and secure those sub 1% rates, if you can. As always, seek professional advice and make sure your mortgage has the right ‘impact’!

approach to an individual’s needs.

The Council also operates a Wellbeing Centre in the Forum (near TK Maxx) which offers help and support.

Are there many jobs available?

We have a file full of opportunities in leisure, retail, hospitality, IT and much more. Currently, we have jobs ranging from green-keeping to graphic design.

We’re also grateful for the support of Horsham-based recycling firm Piron, which employs a number of young people. We work with other local businesses too and the Jobs Fair at the Drill Hall is a good way of building a network of employers in the District.

We can also access opportunities available through the government’s Kickstart scheme, for young people aged 16 to 24 on universal credit.

Kickstart offers six months of paid work with a local employer, with the salary funded by the government. If successful, the employee is often offered a full-time position.

Are apprenticeships becoming more popular?

The government has pushed apprenticeships and some schemes have developed to offer degree-level qualifications. Working towards a good qualification while earning money is more appealing than university for some people.

50

What if you’re over 25?

As well as Y-Wish, we run In2Work, another arm of our Journey to Work programme. This helps people over the age of 24 get back to work and we have a designated Support Officer based at the hub on specific days.

Y-Wish Support Officer Clare Holt helps young people discuss options (©AAH/Alan Wright)

How long is the hub in place for?

It’s funded for an initial 12 months and more than 150 young people have already used it. However, we will be applying for further funding for both the Y-Wish and In2Work programmes, as the projects need to continue.

INTERVIEWS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information The hub is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm.

For more information contact a Y-WISH Support Officer on (01403) 215334, email journey2work@horsham.gov.uk or visit www.horsham.gov.uk/ywish

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

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

Choose the Right Tool for Clearing Leaves Echo PB8010 RRP £780 OUR PRICE £645 (save £135) The best in class: among the largest and most powerful backpack blowers at 79.9cc with 1818m3 air speed and only 11.2kg. Blowing force of 44nm.

Husqvarna 525BX RRP £349 OUR PRICE £299 (save £50) The most comfortable high powered, low vibration blower with 1.2ms vibration and 9db sound, boasting a 13m3 blow speed.

The choice of the professional.

Fully equipped workshop for all types of garden machinery

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

1/2 Price 1st Service

All new machinery purchased from us now come with a 1/2 price first service to ensure the maximum performance and life of the machine.

72-74 Park Street, Horsham, RH12 1BY

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

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HORSHAM RACING DRIVER NICK PADMORE IS PART OF F1 HISTORY

Nick Padmore prepares for an historic race at Goodwood (©Ian Skelton Photography)

Since starting in junior karting, Horshambased racing driver Nick Padmore has raced everything from Minis to Formula One cars. His success in historic and endurance racing has led to a secondary career as a driving coach. Here, Nick describes his journey in motorsport…

Aged 13, I was a late starter on the junior circuit. We weren’t the only father and son team by any means, but even then there were big teams where people with more money could drive a kart set up by professional engineers. Dad managed to secure some small sponsors, but I also did a paper round until I was 21 to help fund it.

I grew up near Dorking where my parents ran a garage. My dad, Keith, raced Minis and still competes to this day. Although I often watched him racing, I was never pushed into following in his footsteps and as a boy preferred spending my weekends fishing.

I won the championship in 1993 and we decided to see how far I could go in motorsport. We bought a Formula First single-seater race car in 1995, still travelling around in a van and trailer. I made good progress and in 1997 expected to challenge for the title, as by then we were also running a customer car to help fund my season. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with meningitis just before my 21st birthday.

My neighbour had a go-kart and one day he invited me to try it. I was immediately hooked and sold my fishing rod in the Friday-Ad so I could do karting instead.

Nick drives many different types of racing car (©Ian Skelton Photography)

He has won two historic titles in a Williams (©Ian Skelton Photography)

I was in a coma and spent a month in hospital. The experience wiped me out and I had to learn how to walk again. I was actually back testing just two months later and set competitive times. Then in my first race back I qualified on the front row. But physically I wasn’t ready. I was constantly tired and even though I finished the season runner-up, the effects of the illness affected me for two years.

My career headed in a different direction with a move into Radical sportscars. It was a new series featuring Le Mans style cars with small, affordable motorcycle engines.

It had a two-driver set-up with the owner often teaming up with a faster driver. That suited me, as by then I had experience of coaching novices at track days on circuits like Brands Hatch. I spent seven years

Nick has a distinctive helmet design (©Ian Skelton Photography)

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Nick drives Tom Pryce’s beautiful Shadow DN5 around the streets of Monaco (©Ian Skelton Photography)

Breaking the Goodwood lap record in Derek Warwick’s Arrows A11 (©Ian Skelton Photography)

racing and coaching in Radicals. My ability to coach others led to more opportunities, particularly in endurance racing.

the wheel of an F1 car. I’ve now driven 32 F1 cars from Jim Clark’s Lotus to Jacques Villeneuve’s Williams.

I would sometimes drive dad’s Mini Cooper at events like the Silverstone Classic, when he wasn’t driving it himself! However, my big breakthrough in historic racing came through Phil Hall, who I met in the Radical series. He called me while I was on holiday and said, “Have you ever driven a Formula One car before?” I almost collapsed! We travelled to Spain and I tested a Tyrrell 012, driven by Michele Alboreto in 1983. I remember thinking how strange it was that after all these years I was suddenly behind

I’m perhaps best known for racing in the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Championship.

Each race is split into two categories. The first is for cars which raced prior to 1972 (called the Jackie Stewart class) and non-ground effect cars (Emerson Fittipaldi class). The second is for Post-1972 ground effect cars (Patrick Head class) and flatbottomed cars (Niki Lauda class). My first championship title was in 2015 driving an ex-Gunnar Nilsson Lotus 77. I then took the Post-1972 title in 2016 and 2018, driving an

ex-Carlos Reutemann Williams FW07C. I won all three in cars owned by Max Smith Hilliard. Currently, I’m racing a pre-ground effect car and love the challenge of beating faster machinery. I’m also driving for Chrome Cars, which has a stunning collection of JPS cars.

I prefer racing cars from the days before driver aids like ABS. When you accelerate in the wet, a good driver feels for the grip to avoid wheelspin. But in the days of traction control, you could just put your foot down and the grip is immediately there, which goes against a driver’s instinct. Fortunately, traction control is now banned in F1,

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Approved Servicing for:

Also Approved for

NOW AN APPROVED JEEP SERVICE CENTRE Jeep owners concerned about the closure of Horsham Car Centre can now have their Jeep serviced and warranty work carried out by Fiat Group trained technicians at Monza Sport. Call us for details.

Monza Sport is an approved service dealer for Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Abarth and now Jeep, offering the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

We offer servicing & MOTs, parts and tuning services, aircon re-gas, tyre fitting and 4 wheel laser alignment. We have special labour rates for older cars and offer courtesy cars.

We have a vastly experienced Service Manager in Keith Avey and one of the country’s best technicians and diagnostic experts in Kevin Riddles. On four occasions we’ve topped the JD Power customer satisfaction surveys for Alfa Romeo. (*No.1 out of 165 Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler Jeep dealers for customer satisfaction in the UK, Jan - Mar 2018)

Monza Sport, Bridge Garage, London Road, Ashington, RH20 3DD

Tel: (01903) 891174 www.monzasport.com

although the engines don’t sound like they used to. That’s why fans still reminisce about Ayrton Senna driving on the edge.

Nick wrings the neck of a classic Mini Cooper (©Gary Kimber/Treble Blue Photography)

“To talk about the sounds and spectacle of historic racing with someone like Sebastian Vettel was special.”

After winning the championship in 2018, I was invited to the FIA awards night in St Petersburg, attended by the likes of Lewis Hamilton. I spoke to Sebastian Vettel, a four-time World Champion, then driving for Ferrari. He was fascinated by what I do, as he’s very knowledgeable about the sport’s history and even has a collection of old F1 cars. To talk about the sounds and spectacle of historic racing with someone like Vettel was a special moment.

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There’s a huge amount of responsibility when you’re driving historic cars. They are somebody’s pride and joy and while people assume the owners are wealthy, some have worked their entire life to buy one. They are works of art and you have to drive them with maximum respect. You need to be fast, otherwise you’re not testing the car and providing the engineers with good data. But if you push too hard it can be perceived as disrespectful.

You are always conscious that the chassis is very old and finding the materials to repair or replace broken parts is not only expensive but almost impossible in some cases.

They might need to be specially fabricated from the original designs.

Sometimes, historic events are held as F1 support races, usually as non-championship events. One such race was at the Mexico GP in 2015. I remember driving through the brilliant stadium section and hearing the crowd through my earplugs! I’ve raced at tracks including Suzuka, Silverstone and Spa, but the most prestigious historic race is held in Monaco every two years.

It’s difficult to get a drive at Monaco, as everyone wants to be involved, even ex-F1 drivers like Jean Alesi. One year, there were 40 cars in qualifying and it was like the M25 at Sainte Devote. I was third on my Monaco debut in a 1975 Walter Wolf Racing Williams, then in 2018 I was leading in a Lotus 16 in the Pre-1960 class when I received a penalty for a jump start and finished second. But even standing on the podium was incredible.

Phil Hall bought an ex-John Surtees Can-Am Lola T70 Spyder and asked me to test it at Donington Park, prior to running the car at the 73rd Members’ Meeting at Goodwood in 2015.

It was ridiculously fast and quite scary to drive! Another driver was due to race it at Goodwood but was apprehensive, so I stepped in and took pole position with a lap record, although it wasn’t official as it was done in qualifying. I was leading comfortably in the race, so with two laps to go, I pushed a bit harder and recorded a 1:18.2, smashing Jim Clark’s official record, which had stood since 1955.

I’d driven an ex-Derek Warwick 1990 Arrows A11 during a demonstration run at Brands Hatch. Goodwood contacted me and asked if I would drive it at SpeedWeek 2020 with a view to beating my lap record. I had to go from a standing start and there wasn’t much time to warm up the tyres and brakes. Still, I knocked eight seconds off the record and my time of 1:09.9 stands today.

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KEVIN GRIFFIN CARS

Nick loves racing at events like Goodwood Revival (©Ian Skelton Photography)

SOUTHERN COUNTIES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Southern Counties Home Improvements have built an impeccable name for ourselves for over 15 years We have had thousands of satisfied customers in Horsham and surrounding areas.

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A family-run Horsham business with a great reputation and over 40 years experience...

Our fully qualified technicians provide quality repairs on all makes of Cars and Vans

Servicing & Repairs Cambelts & Clutches Brakes, Tyres & Alignment Exhausts, EGR & DPFs Radiators & Cooling System

MOTs - Cars, Vans & Motorbikes Latest Diagnostic Equipment Aircon Service & Regas Steering & Suspension Body & Paint Repairs

FREE LOCAL COLLECTION & DELIVERY OR LOAN CARS (Subject to Availability) Kevin Griffin Cars is an Autocare qualified Hybrid service and repair centre.

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Kevin Griffin Cars, Nightingale Road, Horsham, RH12 2NW (01403) 750500 kevingriffincars@btconnect.com www.kevingriffincars.co.uk

(©Ian Skelton Photography)

CALL US FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS

(01403) 271746

info@directsecuritypartnership.co.uk

PROVIDING COMPLETE SECURITY SOLUTIONS Goodwood has always looked after me and I’ve been lucky to drive some incredible cars there. There’s nothing like the Festival of Speed or Revival anywhere else in the world, where fans can get up close to famous cars and drivers. My wife, Claire, always supports me and loves Goodwood too. I hardly see her as she’s off enjoying the day!

Driver coaching is now a big part of my life and takes me all over the world. The travelling is tiring, but there are worse ways to make a living! People are ultimately buying my experience.

Having spent a fortune on historic, classic or even modern racing cars, it makes sense to invest much less to learn how to drive them properly. As long as the client improves as a driver and enjoys their racing, hopefully they will see my services as money well spent.

I would love to stand on the podium at Le Mans one day. Recently I was driving a Porsche GT3 in a support race for the famous 24-hours. We were on course to win our class until my co-driver lost the lead on the final lap. The British Touring Car Championship is a brilliant spectacle that I would love to try too, as the racing is so tight.

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www.directsecuritypartnership.co.uk 18 Blatchford Close Horsham RH13 5RG

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Nick deals with tricky conditions at the wheel of a JPS Lotus (©Gary Kimber/Treble Blue Photography)

GET ON THE FRONT FOOT If you would like to promote your business to more people in the Horsham District, perhaps AAH can help.

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

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

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

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Copies can be picked up for free from an ever-increasing number of our stylish stands across the Horsham District. We also publish online at www.aahorsham.co.uk

To chat about options and ideas email the editor Ben Morris at

editor@aahorsham.co.uk

My personal view is that budgets for many series of racing are too high. There used to be a staircase to the top from Formula Ford to Formula 3 and Formula 3000, where fast drivers with low budgets could be competitive. Now, a season’s budget for GP2 is about £3m and brilliant drivers fall by the wayside long before they get there. Often, they race in a club series instead, which are great fun and fiercely competitive. I would like to see more series that have a standard chassis and engine, where no testing is allowed and drivers just qualify and race.

Then you wouldn’t have the big, professional teams winning all the time.

I’m now a member of the British Racing Drivers’ Association. I used to see the BRDC badge on drivers’ overalls and thought, “I would love to get there one day!” To be a member, you need to perform consistently at the highest level of motorsport.

When I raced at Monaco, a representative said, “We don’t want you standing on the

MARTYN EDWARDS

podium again without the BRDC logo!” So I applied, but was still deemed ineligible because I race historic cars. I remember receiving the news and vowing to continue driving my balls off! Later, I was proposed for membership by two people, including 1970 Le Mans 24-hour winner Richard Attwood, and the committee awarded me BRDC membership. That was huge for me! I wear the badge with pride and it feels like reward for a lifetime’s work.

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: IAN SKELTON/GARY KIMBER Editor’s Note: Additional thanks to Gary Kimber for putting us in touch with Nick.

Further information: Nick can be contacted through his website at: www.nickpadmoreracing.com nickpadmoreracing padmore56 npad56

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