AAH (All About Horsham) June 2022

JUNE 2022

JUNE 2022 CONTENTS 9 26

News Round-Up The Big Gig and The Children’s Parade return to Horsham, while Southwater residents fight further development.

Gardens It has been five years since the Streeter family bought Leonardslee. There’s been remarkable changes in that time...

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Theatre

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Community

Horsham Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (HAODS) take on Mel Brooks’ riotous musical, The Producers.

Ascot Care is an independent, familyrun business in Horsham, helping elderly and vulnerable people.

COVER STORY 4

The June 2022 cover features make-up artist Kim Wachnianin at Brookfield Barn, Mannings Heath. Kim is pictured on a wooden bridge that spans the lake at the popular venue. We were lucky with the weather and took photos both inside and outside for the feature (see p36). Kim was joined by friend Helen Green, owner of Belle Beauty. Wearing the dress from her own wedding (fittingly held at Brookfield Barn) Helen modelled for some beautiful pictures with Kim and these are included in the feature. However, this shot of Kim and the pink rhododendrons was chosen for the cover. We had several other good options this month, including Adam Streeter at Leonardslee, Laura and Cliff Santini at Holbrook Animal Rescue and Chris Dale in The Producers at The Capitol.

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Charity

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Beauty

A Trust has been set up by the family of 18-year-old Mia Craen, who lost her life in a car accident last year.

Kimberley Louise is an award-winning make-up artist based in Horsham, specialising in weddings.

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Groups

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Animals

Horsham Chess Club continues to thrive thanks to its ongoing commitment to developing junior players.

Holbrook Animal Rescue hopes to secure a new home, with the Mowbray development sneaking ever closer.

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

EDITOR: Ben Morris editor@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 AAH, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT ADVERTISING: Ben Morris advertising@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 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 6th advert is free of charge, like a coffee shop! We can also design adverts if you need help at no extra charge.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Alan Wright 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.

Merchant, Harry Baker, the Walker family (all Horsham) The Brown family and the Chapman family (Southwater), the Palmer family (BBH) the Murray family (Wickhurst Green) Luke Butcher (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris family (West Chiltington) PICK UP POINTS & AAH STANDS Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands at businesses, clubs and shops.

Horsham: The Living Room (Swan Walk), Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric) Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, 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), Meadow Stores and Cafe (Thakeham), Golden Plaice (Ashington) Supermarkets: In association with Self Select Distribution, AAH is now available from the free pick-up points at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath and Sainsbury’s in Horsham.

www.aahorsham.co.uk AAH is published online on the 1st of each month. Archive editions are online too.

DISTRIBUTION The magazine is delivered to about 13,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages.

DOOR-TO-DOOR TEAM TEAM Jacquie Paterson, the Judd family, the Voisey family, Katie Drysdale, Hazel Garner, Jill Shuker, the Arliss family, the Bloomfield family, Eve Lovett, Lara Green, the Gavira family, Harvey Dold, Alessandro Cavallo, Jack Nicholls, the McCormick family, Charlie

LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH at a cost of only £40 + VAT per 1,000. For details, email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk NOTES Luke Butcher will be taking over the Mannings Heath delivery round from Nathan Williams from this edition onwards.

Welcome to the team, Luke!

SPORTING TALES

Notes from the Editor: We Were All Junior Champions, Right?

This month, I’ve been mostly bragging about my youngest son’s selection for the District Sports competition. Within moments of hearing the news, I was tapping away on the family WhatsApp group, trying to edge ahead of my siblings in the ongoing “my kids are better than your kids” contest.

My son’s moment in the spotlight also presented me with the opportunity to reminisce about my own District Sports memories, with a little sugar coating, naturally! One of the best things about parenthood is exaggerating childhood exploits, be it your crazy misdemeanours, sporting prowess or academic genius.

That’s why marrying a childhood sweetheart isn’t always a good idea, as they’re liable to pour cold water on any embellished story from your school days.

The true story of my District Sports is hardly the stuff of legend. I have a vivid memory of the day. I was running in the 1500m at the old BBH Sports Centre and could hear the crowd cheering as the two leaders sprinted for the line. I glanced up in surprise, as I was still on the bend, 150m behind them! I ended up pipping one other runner to take seventh, narrowly avoiding the ignominy of last place. That’s not the version I told my kids though. No way! In my imagined version, I just missed out on a podium and came fourth, which not only sounds believable but also made me seem admirably modest!

My wife actually gets quite annoyed by another story I often tell family and friends, from the one and only time I took part in the London to Brighton Cycle Ride.

I rode a mountain bike and led the entire field, as everyone else had road bikes that couldn’t handle the cobbled streets of the first few miles. It is amusing to hear her exasperated dismissal of my claim, as she points out things like staggered start times, which makes it all-the-more unlikely. But it is true. I was winning, while wearing combat shorts and T-shirt on a second-hand mountain bike.

I suspect most dads are guilty of similar tall tales. I played football for Sparrows as a boy, while two of my closest friends played for Roffey Robins and Heron Way. For a brief time, Efan Ekoku (who went on to play in the Premier League and at the World Cup for Nigeria) played for Ockley FC. All three of us recall the time we played against him and he struck the crossbar from 35 yards. Either it’s a remarkable coincidence, or two of us have formed a false memory from one genuine account.

While on an AAH story recently, I saw the young son of another old friend and told him that I used to play football with his dad. With great pride, he said, “You played for Horsham too!” I stifled a laugh and went along with it - I didn’t want to crush the boy’s spirit by telling him it was actually for Lower Beeding & Nuthurst!

Over-playing success crosses generations too. I was round my parents’ house recently and my mum revealed she was a badminton champion in her youth. My dad pulled a face I’ve seen many times before (pitched somewhere beyond scepticism, but not quite so far as to write it off as totally insane) and when we quizzed her about it for our own entertainment, it turned out she’d won a badminton tournament for girls in her year at Southwater junior school. And the village wasn’t nearly as big back then...

And just yesterday, my eldest son proved he’s inherited the knack for distorting reality favourably. Evidently not liking the praise heaped on our youngest for his District Sports selection, he reminded us that he’d competed at a “national level” at cross-country. In fact, it was a Sainsbury’s sponsored event to keep kids active and to qualify, he’d only had to finish in the top five of a race solely comprised of pupils from primary schools in Storrington, Ashington, Thakeham and Washington.

“National? in your dreams!”

I look forward to the next 20 years or so, to see how my sons’ sporting performances will take on a new narrative and hopefully one day, they will tell their own children of how they narrowly missed the Olympic qualification time, or wiped the floor with a multi-millionaire footballer down Horsham Park when they were 12-years-old. And if that’s not winning, what is?

5

QUOTE AAH FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

NEWS ROUND-UP Announcements & Events from across the Horsham District Email submissions to editor@aahorsham.co.uk

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The Big Gig 2022 will be held at Horsham Sports Club, Cricketfield Road, on Saturday 18 June, 1 - 10.30pm.

Now in its fifth year, the much-loved family music event features tribute bands, varied entertainment and an array of street food and beverages. Acts include Mused, (Muse

tribute band), renowned local seven-piece band Murdoch’s Crazy Eyes, Jimmy Harvey, Almost Elvis, and tribute acts The Spicey Girls, 24K Bruno Mars and The Bootleg Bee Gees.

Festival goers can bring a picnic and soft drinks, and set up a space or gazebo with

A new bridge over the A264, part of Legal & General’s Mowbray development, has officially opened. The bridge spans 255m, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to safely cross over the dual carriageway. It creates a pedestrian link between Mowbray and Littlehaven and Horsham town centre, as well as a safe route for pupils at Bohunt Horsham to walk to and from school.

The bridge was manufactured in four sections, which were bolted together on site. A 500-tonne crane was used to install the main span of the bridge, while two 350-tonne cranes installed its north and south landings. mowbrayvillage.com

St Mary's Church in Causeway, Horsham hosts a Flower Festival on 23 – 26 June.

After a three year break, the festival returns with a theme of ‘70 Glorious Years’ to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. There will be an opening service on Wednesday 22 June at 7.30pm, followed by a preview of arrangements. The festival is open from Thursday to Saturday at 10am - 6pm and Sunday, 12 - 5pm. There will be lunchtime recitals in the church throughout, before the festival ends with a Celebration Concert by St Mary’s Choir on Sunday at 6pm. Funds raised will go towards maintaining the church.

friends to enjoy the day in comfort. The festival is generously sponsored and supported by At Home Estates, Hey! Broadband and XA Digital.

For tickets and information visit thebiggighorsham2022.eventbrite.co.uk For more, see advert on Page 13.

The Chairman of Horsham District Council, Cllr David Skipp, has commissioned a commemorative scroll on behalf of the Council and residents of the Horsham District, to express warm regards and congratulations to HRH Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee.

The scroll was created by Sussex calligrapher Cathy Stables and includes images that reflect the District’s heritage and natural environment. The scroll was delivered to Her Royal Highness in a presentation box. Arrangements are in place to reproduce the scroll for local display.

©Happy Accidents CIC/jimcareyphotography.co.uk

The Cottesmore Quidditch Festival for Sussex Primary Schools was held on 9 May. Children from local schools were given training by four professional Quidditch coaches from Educatio, with sessions interspersed with owl-training displays from Hawking About. Slytherin were eventual winners and participants received a Cottesmore Quidditch Tournament 2022 medal. cottesmoreschool.com Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice has organised a swimming event at Weir Wood Reservoir, Forest Row, RH18 5HT, on Monday 29 August. The Wild Wood Swim sees participants swimming 1km, 3km or 5km in a new open water event, with the charity providing training plans to help people prepare. Sign up at chestnut.org.uk/wildwood-swim

Horsham Children's Parade is set to return on Sunday 3 July. Children from schools and organisations in the District will showcase creations and costumes made in workshops with professional community artists. The theme for this year’s parade is ‘Natural Wonders’ and features three sections: Earth, Water and Sky. The parade starts in Denne Parade at 11am, heading along East Street, West Street, through the Carfax and up North Parade

before finishing in Horsham Park at midday, where free activities will be held in the afternoon. Horsham’s Boom Tribe will be joining the colourful parade, organised by community arts organisation Happy Accidents, with sponsorship from Gatwick Airport and Saxon Weald and support from Arts Council England and Horsham District Council. horshamchildrensparade

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Southwater Art Club holds an Art exhibition and Craft show at the Ghyll, Pevensey Road, Southwater, on 18 – 19 June, 10am -5pm (4pm Sunday). As well as artists exhibiting paintings, ceramics and craftwork, there will be demonstrations of 3D modelling and lacework, with a youth art competition, children activities and tombola. Free entry. southwaterartclub.co.uk

Cherry Parsons is among the artists involved in the Trail (©AAH/Toby Phillips Photography )

The Horsham Artists’ Summer Art Trail is held over the weekends of 11 - 12 and 18 - 19 June. The trail sees artists and makers across the Horsham District welcome the public into their homes, studios and exhibition venues. There will be 33 artists involved, displaying work ranging from original paintings, lino prints, ceramics and textiles to sculpture, upcycled crafts, jewellery and more. The artists are spread between 15 venues in Horsham and villages including Henfield, Storrington and Warnham. The Art Trail gives visitors an opportunity to meet artists and makers and talk about their materials, techniques and creative processes. Entry is free. An Art Trail brochure and map are available from horshamartists.org/events @horshamartists HorshamArtists

TOOVEY’S 11

Horsham Museum and Art Gallery’s spring exhibition displays the work of botanical photographer Eleanor Coate. Eleanor’s work follows the principles of botanical illustration, which has a scientific purpose, striving to represent each plant accurately.

Eleanor has previously been awarded an RHS Gold Medal. The exhibition is open until 18 June. horshammuseum.org The Arts Society Horsham are delighted to return to the Capitol Theatre in Horsham for the next in a series of live lectures. Rosalind Whyte presents 'Every Picture Tells a Story' on Wednesday 8 June, exploring the depiction of literature in British art, from Hogarth to Shakespeare.

Non-members welcome (£5 entry).

Lectures start at 10.45am. theartssociety.org/horsham

A Chinese famille rose enamelled jar and cover, mark of Qianlong (1736 -1795) ~ auctioned in our April sale of Asian Art for £38,000

Looking to sell your Oriental works of art?

Entries are invited for our forthcoming specialist sale of Asian & Islamic Ceramics & Works of Art on 25th August For free, no-obligation valuations, please call to arrange an appointment with one of our specialists The leading antique and fine art auction house in West Sussex

SPRING GARDENS, A24 WASHINGTON, RH20 3BS 01903 891955 auctions@tooveys.com www.tooveys.com

HSO (©Toby Phillips Photography 2017)

Horsham Symphony Orchestra’s 2021/2022 season at the Capitol culminates with their 50th anniversary concert on Saturday 9 July, 7.30pm.

Celebrated violinist and HSO leader Rachel Ellis takes the stage for a performance of Brahms’ Violin Concerto. This follows the world premiere of Sirens Wake, written for the orchestra by HSO’s student conductor, Lucy Callen. The concert closes with Stravinsky’s Symphony in C. Tickets £16 (Concessions £14, U18s £5) from thecapitolhorsham.com Alfold Rock & Blues Festival is held on the Springbok Estate, Alfold, GU6 8EX, on 1 – 3 July. Friday’s acts include Curved Air, Praying Mantis, Deborah Bonham and Big River, with Saturday’s acts including Nine Below Zero, When Rivers Meet, Elle Bailey, Eddie & the Hotrods and local acts Catfish (pictured) and Soho Dukes. On Sunday, Dr Feelgood, Climax Blues Band, Stray and Geordie are on the bill. One-day, two-day and weekend tickets are available, with camping options too. For tickets visit alfoldrockblues.com

Petworth Festival

2022

Ruth Wall (credit: Lottie Davies)

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Horsham Chamber Choir presents its summer concert, Into the Light, at St John’s RC Church, Springfield Road, Horsham, RH12 2PJ, on Saturday 25 June, 8pm. Themed around the summer sky, light and stars, the collection includes Alec Roth’s Stargazer, Clara Schumann’s Abendfeier in Venedig, Elgar’s The Shower (from a poem by Henry Vaughan), Eric Whitacre’s Lux Aurumque and Stephanie Martin’s Missa Lumen.

Conducted by Olivia Shotton. Tickets £15 from horsham-chamberchoir.org.uk Guilfest returns for the first time in eight years at Hurtwood Polo Club, Ewhurst Lane, Cranleigh, GU6 7SW on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July. Sister Sledge headline Saturday’s main stage, with Peter Hook & The Light topping Sunday’s bill after sets from Dodgy, Bez and Republica. The festival also has a beer tent, cocktail bars, street food, traders, Studio 54 disco, comedy tent, and a wellness and yoga area. guilfest.co.uk

Fabulous Festival Fun... THE BIG GIG Family Music Extravaganza Excitement is building as signs for The Big Gig 2022 broadcast Horsham’s greatest music festival across the town. Now in its 5th year, The Big Gig is taking place at Horsham Sports Club on Saturday 18th June from 1.00pm through to 10.30pm.

Heralding brilliant tribute bands and family entertainment, be prepared for the very best fun filled festival experience with its mix of Horsham’s own and internationally acclaimed bands taking centre stage.

Kicking off at 1.30pm, Mused, the ultimate Muse tribute act will ‘get the party started!’

Following hot on their heels is Murdoch’s Crazy Eyes, delivering irresistible funk, soul, punk, rock; before Jimmy Harvey keeps your toes tapping with his Folk, Blues, Jazz, and Pop. And with no introduction needed…

Almost Elvis will be performing a showstopping tribute to the King.

Flavoursome food and thirst quenching refreshments will include Pizza, Hotdogs,

Thai, and Tapas, along with a selection of specialist drinks tents and a fully licensed bar.

Headlining the music extravaganza is the high energy Spicey Girls. 24K Bruno Mars will be delivering smash hits too, and a Saturday night party would not be complete without ‘Saturday Night Fever’ from The Bootleg Bee Gees!

The event is generously sponsored by At Home Estates and Hey!Broadband, with support from XA Digital. Fundraising supports St. Catherine’s Hospice and Chestnut Tree House whilst also funding improved Club facilities for the benefit of the entire community. Bring a picnic, set up a space, or gazebo, and chill back and relax in comfort with friends and family.

For tickets and more information: https://thebiggighorsham2022.eventbrite.co.uk

To commemorate the bicentenary of the great romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and his connection with Horsham, the Shelley Memorial Project has organised the Shelley 200 Festival.

There will be a range of celebratory and fundraising events, including a poetry competition with a first prize of £500.

Actor Julian Sands performs Keats and Shelley, Ghosts and Lovers at St Mary’s Church, Causeway, on Thursday 9 June, 7pm. Shout Out for Shelley sees five poets, musicians and performers recite their favourite Shelley poem, alongside modern radical poetry from their own collections, at Collyer’s, Hurst Road, Horsham on Friday 8 July, 7pm. Other highlights include a Shelley Quiz Night and poetry readings. shelleymemorialproject.co.uk

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Horsham writer N.C Friswell has selfpublished a local history book, Horsham’s Indian Princess. It tells the story of Helena Bennett, the wife of French General Benoit de Boigne. Born in Delhi in 1773, she was the daughter of a Persian Colonel in the service of Emperor Shah Alam. She married at the age of 15 and was known as Helena after her baptism. Helena lived in the Ranger’s Lodge in St Leonard’s Forest for nearly 50 years and is buried at St Mary’s Church. Her story was the subject of a BBC Inside Out programme in 2004. Copies are available from the author for £2 (plus £1 p&p) from 2 Millais, Horsham, RH13 6BS (cash or cheque only).

In 2018, AAH editor Ben Morris wrote his debut novel, The Last Farrington. After a brief flurry of excitement that included a launch event in the Carfax, he duly did nothing with it for four years. Now, he has revisited the story and produced a version for Kindle (£3.99) and paperback (£8.99) on Amazon. If you enjoy AAH, do seek it out, as it’s a fun read for teenagers and adults. For 200 years, the world-famous Farringtons have been cursed, each generation falling victim to bizarre, unexplained accidents. Only 15-year-old Warren remains, hidden from the world at Farrington Towers, where his life is controlled by the mysterious Director and the Farrington Protective Force.

When he’s told of the existence of a twin sister, Warren must discover the truth about his family's tragic past. But can he succeed before he too falls victim to the curse?

Ed Butler from Horsham plans to cycle 350km to raise funds for Chestnut Tree House, the children’s hospice who care for his five-year-old son, Archie (pictured).

In 2016, Archie was born with half a heart and had his first heart surgery when he was only 10 days old. He stayed in hospital for eight months due to his complex medical needs, with Chestnut Tree House providing additional support after Archie had returned home. Ed says: “Archie has a twin, Harry, and an older brother, Ollie, so life was hectic with the extra care and attention he needed. So, we were relieved to know that Chestnut Tree

House were there to help us. Children’s hospices are far from the sad places you may think they are. They are a beacon of light for the children who go there and the families who get respite care or space to grieve.”

Archie has now had eight heart surgeries, five of them being open heart, and is currently in good health, although he is expected to need a heart and lung transplant in his teenage years. Ed is taking on the King Alfred’s Way, setting off on Sunday 17 June on a three-day circular route from Winchester. To sponsor Ed, visit justgiving.com/ed4cth

John Bell, who served with RAF Bomber Command, celebrated his 99th birthday with the charity Know Dementia and The Storrington Veterans Social Club on 24 March.

Entertainment was provided by the Swingtime Sweethearts and Doreen Homer baked a cake. Know Dementia runs a Veterans Wellbeing Cafe in the Ravenscroft Guide and Community Centre, Storrington, on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, 2 -4pm. Attendees enjoy tea and coffee with cake, games, music, dancing and talks. For information call (01273) 494300 or visit knowdementia.co.uk 15

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The Charman family at Great House Farm (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2012)

(©AAH/Toby Phillips 2021)

Horsham District Council has confirmed that Rookwood Golf Club is no longer being considered as a site for development in the Local Plan and has been withdrawn from the process. The Council has committed to a public consultation in 2023 (the golf site’s lease is not due to be renewed until 2026) on the site’s future.

Cllr Roger Noel, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture at HDC, said: “We all recognise the importance and value of Rookwood and Warnham Local Nature Reserve and these sites are examples of how to enhance biodiversity for the benefit of the environment. We need to fully assess the need for golf at the Rookwood site, which a further consultation will help us to do. We are committed to protecting the environments there, with sustainability, biodiversity and the protection of native plants and wildlife at the centre of our plans.”

A petition to prevent further development on farmlandin Southwater had gathered close to its target of 2,000 signatures as AAH went to press.

Berkeley Homes, which is developing the Broadacres estate in the village, proposes to build a further 1500 homes alongside community facilities which could include a secondary and primary school, walking trails and shops. The 348-acre site in question lies to the west of Southwater, stetching from Worthing Road at Hop Oast to Bonfire Hill. If approved, the development would extend west towards Two Mile Ash Road and Christ’s Hospital. The land is

mostly farmland (it includes Great House Farm and its listed farmhouse, pictured above) as well as ancient woodlands at Courtland Wood and Smith’s Copse.

However, Berkeley has said that it would safeguard Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). Horsham District Council’s Local Plan is currently stalled due to water neutrality issues, although further development in Southwater was considered in previous drafts of the Plan. Berkeley held a public exhibition about the proposal in May, while residents have launched a petition at you.38degrees.org.uk/p/ stopfarmlanddevelopment

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43 18

Pupils at Kingslea Primary School now benefit from a spectacular celebration of history after a collaboration with Horsham-based 1348 Design. The designers were asked to capture hundreds of years of history for a timeline to highlight important events at an international, national and local level. Horsham appears

around the year 947 with its first historical mention, then again with the heaviest hailstone recorded in 1958 and the school’s opening in 2006.

The design was printed and installed by another Horsham business BEL Signs, with the two-man team needing two days to install the timeline in the hall.

Covers Timber & Builders Merchants welcomed Horsham MP Jeremy Quin to its depot on 6 May, as the company celebrates its 175th year.

Mr Quin was given a tour by

store manager John Hamilton and met Covers’ Chairman Rupert Green. The Green family has run the independent business since the 1940s. coversmerchants.co.uk

AAH is an independent, monthly magazine established in 2011. We deliver directly to 12,000 homes, with rounds in many parts of Horsham as well as Holbrook, Highwood, Broadbridge Heath, Wickhurst Green, Mannings Heath, Nuthurst, Southwater, Billingshurst and West Chiltington. In association with Self Select Distribution, AAH is now also available as a free pick-up at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath and Sainsbury’s in Horsham.

BRANDED STANDS AAH also has bespoke, spring-loaded stands, placed across the Horsham District.

Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax), The Living Room (Swan Walk) Pavilions in the Park (Hurst Road) Horsham Rail Station, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric), At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), New Street Butchers, New House Farm, The Holbrook Club, CoCo’s Salon (Southwater) Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington), Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Billy’s on the Road, Sumners Ponds, Faygate Village Store, Bluecoat Sports Centre (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Meadow Stores (Thakeham) Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Slinfold Golf & Country Club, Steyning Leisure Centre, Cobblestone Walk (Steyning) and Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington) NOW ALSO AT GOLDEN PLAICE, ASHINGTON

To advertise in AAH, email Ben at advertising@aahorsham.co.uk

Horsham District Council has organised a programme of free workshops for any existing or potential independent retail, hospitality or high street business based in Horsham District.

Amy Blick from exhilHRate (pictured) provides an ‘Introduction to HR’ at Tottington Manor, Edburton Road, Henfield, BN5 9LJ on Monday 20 June, 9:15 - 10:45am.

This include tips on finding employees and maximising your talent pipeline.

To book your place, email amy@exhilhrate.co.uk

Other upcoming workshops include ‘Tax and Accounting for Small Businesses’ with Carolyn Burchell, also at Tottington Manor on 20 June, 11:15am 12:30pm. Email carolyn.burchell@ composureaccounting.co.uk

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SPORTING CHANCE

FAMILY ESTABLISH CHARITY IN MEMORY OF MIA CRAEN

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In January 2021, 18-year-old Mia Craen from Horsham died in a car accident on Worthing Road, near Hop Oast. Now, the Craen family has established a charity in her memory. Here, Mia’s parents Peter and Michelle explain why….

About Mia… Mia was always a very sporty girl. She competed in triathlons for Horsham Tri Club, swam for Atlantis and enjoyed football at Millais, but her greatest love was hockey. She only took up the game when she was 15, but in her first season at Horsham Hockey Club was named Manager's Player of the Year and followed that by winning Players’ Player of the Year.

Mia was a goalkeeper - she was the type of person who’d try anything - and loved it!

She was selected to represent Sussex and hoped to eventually progress from the Under-18s to the Senior team at Horsham.

Price of Sport…

Mia was talented and we always encouraged her to participate in sports, along with our sons, Finlay and Jude. But funding all these activities isn’t cheap. To compete in triathlons, she needed a bicycle and a wetsuit, and the cost of swimming galas added up too. When she became a hockey goalkeeper, we were amazed to find out that the kit cost £3,000. Mia happily borrowed one, as she wasn’t one to make a fuss about having the best equipment, and we only bought her a new kit when could afford to.

In Mia’s Honour…

It is for this reason that we have launched the ‘What Would Mia Do Trust’. Funds raised will be donated to children aged five to 18 in England and Wales, although initially the focus will be on the local area, to help young people participate in sport. Playing sport makes a big difference to a child's physical and mental wellbeing. During

lockdown, its importance was further highlighted, as it was clear to see how much young people missed exercise and the camaraderie of team sport. However, we are now seeing food prices and household bills rapidly rising and for some families, paying £20 for a hockey stick or £50 for football boots isn’t an option.

Sport for all…

We are not looking for Olympic champions of the future. We want to be there for children who love sport but struggle to participate due to the costs involved.

Horsham is an affluent area, but there are families who can't afford essential equipment for children. We’ve been in a position ourselves where we’ve borrowed a wetsuit so Mia could compete in triathlons.

That’s why we donated Mia’s goalkeeper kit to the hockey club, so somebody else can use it. We know there are pupils at local schools missing out on sport because their parents can’t afford certain things. So, we

feel that helping others enjoy sport is a good way of keeping Mia’s memory alive. Finlay is 21, so he’s involved in the charity already, and Jude will become a trustee too when he’s 18. We have friends and colleagues from the insurance industry who are also trustees.

Fundraising Efforts…

Mia (in goalkeeping kit) loved playing for Horsham Hockey Club

Mia (5th from left) wins the Sussex Schools FA Cup with Millais 22

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Peter: We have already raised £24,000. Last year, I rode from Land’s End to John O’Groats and raised about £10,000. A few weeks after we lost Mia, I was with a friend discussing ideas over a bottle of wine or two, and by the end of the evening we’d planned the trip. It was tough, as I hadn't ridden a bike properly since I was a child, but I enjoyed the experience and made new friends. Later this year, I’ll be riding from London to Paris as part of a 30-strong group. Michelle took part in the Great South Run with friends and this year is stepping up to the Battersea Park Half Marathon. Since Mia’s accident, Michelle has been running regularly with Fittleworth Flyers and these activities have been important to both of us.

Crowdfunding…

Finlay and Mia's friends set up a crowdfunding page online to cover the cost of the funeral.

He also wrote the most eloquent eulogy you could ever imagine. People who knew Mia were very generous and the story made headlines when England footballer Jack Grealish donated £2,000. He also changed the photo on his Instagram page to a picture of Mia. She was an avid Aston Villa fan and loved Jack Grealish (who now plays for Manchester City) so it was an amazing gesture by him. Thanks to all of this support, we had money left over and that has been added to the charity’s funds. Many people have helped raise money in Mia’s memory. Last year, there was a Teachers v Pupils charity football match at Millais (her former school) with players including professional goalkeeper Emily Orman. This alone raised more than £1700.

Horsham Hockey Club and

Collyer’s College also have awards in Mia’s honour, as she was such a vibrant, happy person.

The Accident…

We still do not fully understand what caused Mia’s accident.

The road was damp, but we don’t know why she lost control at 12.30 on a Saturday afternoon.

Losing Mia has left a huge void in our hearts. We often go to the spot where she died and lay flowers. Lots of people have put down items that mean something personally to them.

Even though Mia was very sporty, she didn’t exactly eat the breakfast of champions!

She would turn up for galas or hockey matches loaded with snacks! So, people have put down penguin bars and crisps, serving as little reminders of Mia. Now, we hope her legacy can live on by helping others do the things she loved too.

Further information: If readers would like to donate to the cause, they can support Peter’s cycle ride at www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/cycleformia or Michelle’s half marathon at justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/runformia The What Mia Would Do Trust is currently being registered with the Charity Commission. For details, email michelle.craen@outlook.com For more details about The Compassionate Friends, a charity supporting parents and siblings after the loss of a child, visit tcf.org.uk

INTERVIEW: Ben Morris PHOTOS: The Craen family

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AAH LETTERS Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Paul Clarke of Queensway, Horsham, writes: The 'Secret History' article about the Shrine of Our Lady in West Grinstead (AAH May 2022) has an improbable literary connection which readers might find interesting. The famous 18th century poet Alexander Pope was a close friend of the Caryll family and a frequent visitor.

Born a mere 45 years after the execution of Father Bell at Tyburn, he would have been all too aware of the significance of West Grinstead as a safe haven and retreat. As a Catholic, he was forbidden to attend university, live within 10 miles of London or evenown a horse worth more than £5, such was the shadow cast by the Gunpowder Plot at the beginning of the previous century.

How the bridge might look (photo submitted by Bridge the Downs Link Campaign) 24

Hilary Jubert, Chair, Bridge The Downs Link campaign, writes: On behalf of the Bridge The Downs Link, I would like to make a response to the publication in AAH of Cllr Joy Dennis’ views on the feasibility study, which looked into ways to make the A281 Downs Link crossing safe (News Round-Up, P18, May 2022).

I would like to point out that not only did the study carry significant flaws, notably road speed data that will be revisited by WSCC, but that the preferred option for both WSCC and Sustrans was the bridge.

The potential of a shared bridge project between WSCC and Sustrans may not transfer to a Pegasus solution, leaving WSCC to shoulder all the cost.

WSCC’s failed business case for the bridge appeared to be based on road safety alone. It did not take into account the huge potential for health and fitness, mental wellbeing and the environment, free at the point of use, that a safe Downs Link would unlock. Perhaps a wider funding view could be taken? The endorsement page on our website bridgethedownslink.org covers a wide range of users.

A Pegasus was looked at as recently as 2018/2019 and deemed not viable due to lack of power source and speed of road alone. I question why it would not fail again? The harm to traffic flow it would cause on a strategic network road is clear.

The study reported that the current sightlines for equestrians are not sufficient, so doing nothing is not an option. Most recently, WSCC Cllr Christian Mitchell and HDC Cllr Richard Landeryou have both publicly supported the bridge option. We would like to see further parallel studies into a bridge and a Pegasus continue. This is the best way to reveal which is the most viable long term solution.

AAH Editor: As someone who uses the Downs Link regularly, I echo your concerns. I remember when I spoke to you and other members of the Bridge the Downs Link campaign, someone pointed out that a Pegusus may lure people into a false sense of security, as motorists unfamiliar with the road (and perhaps not paying close attention to signs due to the fast-flowing nature of the A281) would have little time to react to it, due to poor sight lines. Certainly, I would cross a Pegasus with the same care and attention I use now!

His celebrated mock heroic narrative poem, The Rape of the Lock, is thought to have originated from a conversation with his host, John Caryll, on the occasion of one such visit in 1714.

Caryll was recounting how two other Catholic families within their friendship circle had fallen out over a seemingly trivial incident. Lady Arabella Fermor had been courted by a Lord Petre until he had impulsively cut a lock of her hair without her permission and their respective families had been at odds as a consequence. Pope undertook to reconcile the warring parties by simultaneously dramatising and trivialising the episode the unlicensed seizure of a lock of hair - to enable them both to laugh at it and settle their differences. There's even a suggestion (for which there's no evidence) that he penned the poem sitting under an oak tree in the park which was made the subject of a preservation order in 1951. In any event, the outcome was an instant literary sensation.

The poem sold 3000 copies in the first four days of publication and went on to be translated into 10 European languages.

AAH Editor: For classic poetry fans, check out next month’s AAH, which will include an article on Percy Bysshe Shelley to coincide with the bicentenary of his death.

Non Fault Divorce Update James Leach, Family Solicitor, discusses the changes to the divorce laws one month after they came into effect.

The 6th April 2022 heralded a seismic change in the divorce law of England and Wales with the long-awaited introduction of non-fault divorce.

For around 50 years, divorce law remained substantively unchanged and for couples who had been separated for less than two years, the petitioner had to “pin the blame” for the breakdown of the marriage on their spouse, either by calling them out on their adulterous ways, or more commonly, citing examples of their purported unreasonable behaviour. The ultimate end-point of the blame game was to convince a judge that the marriage was broken, beyond repair.

The old law was maligned universally. Beyond being a rather shocking example of nanny state-like interference with personal choice, the law also had the undesirable effect of exacerbating tension. This was all before the more involved issues of child arrangements and the financial implications of marriage breakdown could be fully considered.

In truth, the burden of convincing an over-worked judge that the marriage was irretrievably broken was not a high one. The most prudent approach was for both parties to agree the petition beforehand, in order to avoid it being defended. Examples of bad behaviour were usually agreed upon, leaving neither party especially satisfied; the petitioner because the examples were often fairly tame ones in order to ensure the petition was palatable enough not to be defended, the respondent because they were being blamed full stop.

Costs were another frequent flashpoint. Because one party was considered blameworthy, they were often ordered to pay costs to the petitioning party.

The new law does away with the blame game and the process has become far more amicable. A judge will accept as fact the statement in the application that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, brushing aside the need for the carefully crafted examples of bad behaviour previously required to convince them.

Call: (01403) 210200 Email: james.leach@coolebevisllp.com www.coolebevislaw.com

To add to the spirit of co-operation between spouses, applications can now be jointly made. Even the language has become friendlier. Gone are the anachronistic Latin terms “decree nisi” and “decree absolute”, substituted for more approachable terms “conditional order” and “final order”. The “petition” has become an “application”. So, a month in, all has been extremely positive.

The simplicity of the new process has meant that clients are needing less lawyer involvement in the divorce part itself, with many dealing with the application without any help at all, saving several hundred pounds that are better spent on lawyerly input for the more taxing considerations such as the finances, or the children.

The only slight drawback, and it is slight, is the mandatory wait of 20 weeks between the application being made, and a request for conditional order being permitted.

Although such a pause perhaps should be seen as a useful interlude to enable productive discussions regarding the finances and the children.

If you are considering divorcing it is advisable to contact a matrimonial solicitor as early on in your legal process as possible.

Please get in touch if you would like to talk through your options and identify the best way forward for you and your family.

26

SHOOTS OF SU AMBITIOUS PLANS TO TAKE LEONARDSLEE TO NEW HEIGHTS In July, it will be five years since Penny Streeter OBE bought Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens in Lower Beeding.

There was great excitement when it was announced that the 200-acre estate would re-open to the public, having been closed since 2010 when the Loder family moved on after more than 120 years at the famous gardens.

When the Streeters arrived in 2017, the gardens were overgrown, pathways in the heralded rock garden were all but invisible, and the lakes were clogged with weeds and

algae. At the time, Adam Streeter, Penny’s son and General Manager at Leonardslee, described it as “looking like something out of Jurassic Park.”

has opened above the restaurant; vineyards have been planted and the estate is almost ready to produce its own wine. The list goes on...

The gardens welcomed its first paying visitors for a decade in the spring of 2019.

So much has changed in the three years since that it’s difficult to know where to begin. Restaurant Interlude opened in Leonardslee House and won a Michelin star; Leonardslee Illuminated has seen moons floating over the lakes; Anton Smit’s dramatic sculptures have added a new dimension to the gardens; a ten-room hotel

With so much success, you’d forgive the Streeters for sitting back and reaping the benefits. But that’s not the case, as Adam explains: “We have so much more we’d like to do and are in the process of outlining our plans for the next few years. Of course, everything needs to go through the normal planning process and be approved by local authorities, but we have big ideas.”

Jamie Harris, Head Gardener at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (©AAH/Alan Wright)

PICK YOUR OWN STRAWBERRIES Check our website and Facebook page for details

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

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Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms Enjoy cakes, sandwiches and Ploughman’s from our Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms, with outdoor seating available. Menu includes baps, sandwiches, toasties and cake, with full English Breakfast from 10am-12pm

Locally Sourced Food & Drink Our locally sourced produce includes fruit & veg, fresh bread, local meats (including Bangers Galore), local beers and gins, wines from Bolney Wine Estate and Leonardslee, Sussex cheeses, unique gifts, and much more!

Celebrating 10 years!

Visit our Facebook page and website for latest info on opening dates & bookings

www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk (01293) 851890 New House Farm, Old Crawley Road, Horsham, RH12 4RU Adam Streeter amongst overgrown weeds and thistles in the greenhouse, soon after his arrival at Leonardslee in 2017 (©AAH/Toby Phillips Photography)

Now open 7 days a week with outside seating

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Adam Streeter at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“The Clock Tower Café is lovely but isn’t designed to accommodate the volume of people now coming here. We’d like to expand our offering to include more hot food and introduce a farm shop, working with local producers. By utilising the space we have more efficiently, we could also host horticultural-themed workshops or educational classes for schoolchildren, so we can engage more with the community.”

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“Perhaps our most ambitious plan is the new Visitor Centre. It’s currently in a rickety old glasshouse, which looks better than it did when we first arrived, when there were plants bursting out through broken panels, but falls short of what we’d like to have. Gardens like Wakehurst and Wisley have beautiful welcome centres and that’s what we need too.”

FORAGING FOOD Anyone who has visited the gardens recently will have spotted a vineyard near Leonardslee House, where Pinot Noir and Pinotage grapes have been planted across four acres. The Streeters also own nearby Mannings Heath Golf Club (bought in 2016), where 30-acres of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier vines have been planted.

The first harvest took place in 2020, with the first release of English wine set for 2023.

The wine is currently being made at the Wiston Estate. However, as owner of the Benguela Cove Wine Estate in South Africa, there are hopes for a new winery in Mannings Heath. The wine produced would be branded as “Leonardslee” and Adam hopes this will lead to more wine tasting events.

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Such events would also complement Restaurant Interlude, where South African head chef Jean Delport has created a remarkable menu, which has been lauded by critics. By foraging for wild ingredients, Jean and his team incorporate the gardens into unique dishes, which have helped Interlude win a Michelin star.

The restaurant is based on the ground floor of the House, with ten hotel rooms now available upstairs. Adam said: “Interlude is incredible but we want to make it even better. We’d like to take it out of the House and build something new behind it.

Interlude is all about foraging and being immersed in nature, and by moving it closer to the gardens, the dining experience can truly complement Jean’s vision. The Dining Room, as it is now, could be anywhere and we want guests to feel part of this special place, surrounded by plants and trees.”

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Each visit includes: Headstone or memorial plaque cleaning using eco-friendly products.

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Geese on the Leonardslee lakes (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“If we achieve this, it would free up the House for weddings and special events. At the moment, it’s not possible for us to offer such services as the space is occupied by the restaurant for dining and afternoon tea, which is very popular. But we’d love to host all kinds of things here, from weddings to food markets to live music.”

“Some of the great events that Horsham hosted pre-COVID, like Piazza Italia, have disappeared and perhaps in future we can host things like that, as it’s sad that they’re not happening. We are hosting Floral Fringe this year (4 - 5 June) which puts us on the map as a venue where others can bring their own event, if it fits with the feel of Leonardslee.”

Beautiful floral colours lining the pathways (©AAH/Alan Wright)

BITING OFF HEADS The first question for many visiting for the first time since before 2010 is, “Have the wallabies survived?” They were well looked after while the gardens were closed and now reside in a purpose-built enclosure where the public can see them. The estate’s fallow and sika deer are more difficult to contain and herds must be managed to protect the gardens. Recently, deer munched the heads off thousands of daffodils, destroying a picturesque sea of yellow lining the banks of the lakes!

The wallabies have been a fixture of the estate for more than a century, having been introduced by Sir Edmund Loder, who also kept beavers and emu! A more recent introduction are sculptures by South African artist Anton Smit, including Faith, a seven-metre figure that looks out over the valley from near the House. Successes such as this ensure that Adam can reflect with pride on his first five years.

“We’ve surpassed our initial targets in some ways, although it has been a rollercoaster.

We had one relatively normal year, although we were on a huge learning curve, and going into our second year, we had big ideas but then COVID hit. Fortunately, we were allowed to re-open quickly as an outdoor 29

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Adam Streeter, General Manager at Leonardslee (©AAH/Alan Wright)

space and many people who probably wouldn't have found us otherwise ended up coming here. So, in terms of visitor numbers, things have gone well and we’re constantly introducing new things to keep it interesting. We don’t rest on our laurels.

We want to maximise what is here.”

TRANQUIL SCENES But with so many attractions, is there a danger of Leonardslee losing sight of what makes it special?

Adam thinks not. “I live here and look out the window every day to amazing scenes, so I'm always conscious that anything we do cannot be detrimental to the gardens.

We’re not looking to become a theme park or a family fun zone. Whenever we introduce something new, I think about it a lot, as you don’t want to reach a point where you’re overshadowing the gardens or disturbing those seeking a peaceful walk around the gardens, which is why the majority of people visit Leonardslee.”

“Even when the gardens are busy, you can find tranquillity. We’ve had days when 2,000 people have come through the gate, yet you can walk down into the valley and easily find a spot where you don’t see a soul and can’t hear a sound other than

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (©AAH/Alan Wright)

those of nature. There are some special places most visitors don’t reach, like the top garden (also known as the ancient woodland). It has been opened up and has more of a woodland feel to it now. Our gardeners and tree surgeons have done a remarkable job in opening-up new areas for people to explore.”

“We also have a team of volunteers. Some do a couple of hours a week, while others are here most days, fulfilling a range of roles from ferrying visitors around on buggies to planting bulbs. The gardens are a national treasure and volunteers enjoy contributing to maintaining it. Certainly, we appreciate their help as it has allowed us to do more than we ever dreamed possible.”

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YEAR-ROUND APPEAL Leonardslee is perceived by some as being a spring garden, owing to its reputation for azaleas and rhododendrons. Late blooming varieties ensure autumn is also a beautiful time to visit, but steps are being taken to make the gardens a year-round attraction.

Jamie Harris, Head Gardener, said: “There’s plenty to see in summer, but it could be better, so a lot of our new planting is geared towards summer interest. As part of that, we’ll be redesigning borders around the House and Rock Garden and we’d like to introduce a winter walk too. Another area we’re working on is the Old Pinetum.

Edmund Loder planted a pinetum that was largely lost in the 1987 storm, so his grandson planted a second pinetum in the deer park, creating a new collection of conifers. However, a handful of the original conifers remain and we want to form a pathway through this quiet area too.”

PLANT REGISTER

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Jamie arrived at Leonardslee in January 2021, having previously worked at Polesden Lacey, Nymans and Chartwell, the family home of Winston Churchill. Jamie said: “This is a completely different type of garden for me, as my background is in herbaceous borders and rose gardens at National Trust properties. To now be in charge of this amazing, wild place with an internationallyrenowned plant collection is exciting, as it’s a new area of horticulture to explore.”

Leonardslee is most famous for Rhododendron Loderi. This hybrid was first raised by Edmund Loder in 1901 and varieties include White Diamond, Sir Joseph Hooker, Pink Coral, King George and Spearmint. All are highly fragrant with

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Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (©AAH/Alan Wright)

large flowers, and in some cases may not exist anywhere else on earth. Jamie and his team are trying to create a register of the Loderi and Leonardslee hybrids.

storm or a disease that spread and killed the rarest plants, we could bring them back.

That’s high on our list of priorities, however, such things cost money!”

“There are about 35 Loderi varieties in the collection and Leonardslee is the only place you can see them all in one place. They are huge, almost tree-like plants, and are hard to maintain as if you prune them, they don’t come back. That’s why cataloguing them is vital, so we know exactly what we've got.”

Whatever the future holds, the Grade I listed gardens continue to dazzle visitors three years after re-opening. Adam said: “I honestly thought the initial interest would wear off, but people still come up to me every day to say how beautiful the gardens are and how happy they are that Leonardslee is open again. They are always complimentary and grateful, which gives us the feeling that we’ve done the right thing. It also adds pressure, to ensure we maintain high standards. But that's okay, as I like a challenge!”

“When I arrived, I thought there would be a library of information on the plants, but there’s virtually nothing. We’ve had to start almost from scratch in terms of identifying and cataloguing plants and that’ll take years to complete. We have some handwritten notes and Chris Loder (great-great grandson of Sir Edmund) runs Loder Plants nearby and help us sometimes. But it’s a daunting task. In future, we hope to be able to propagate here too, so that if - heaven forbid - there was a big

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: leonardsleegardens.co.uk For upcoming events, see opposite...

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Part of Kim’s job involves topping up make-up during wedding photoshoots (©AAH/Alan Wright)

LIP SERVICE

THE AWARD-WINNING MAKE-UP ARTIST WITH AN EYE FOR COLOUR

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Kim Wachnianin applies make-up to bridal model Helen Green (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Kimberley Louise is an award-winning make-up business based in Horsham.

Founded in 2016 by Kim Wachnianin, the business has gone from strength to strength by using make-up to complement natural beauty. Here, Kim explains her passion for colour theory and ambitious hopes for the future…

When did you become a make-up artist?

I founded the business in 2016 and it has been growing ever since. Initially, I also worked as a Store Manager at Waitrose and the transition to becoming a full-time make-up artist has been difficult, especially with the disruption of the past two years. However, through positive word-of-mouth and a strong presence on social media, the brand has grown and in 2020 I was named South East Make-up Artist of the year at The Wedding Industry Awards, which was a huge honour.

What’s the secret to your success?

My route into the industry was different to that of most people. I studied Business at Sussex University and that led to me joining the graduate scheme at Waitrose. The knowledge and experience I gained in a management position certainly helped me to create and market my own brand. I also have clear principles based around the concept of colour theory, which helps me create a look that complements each individual.

Colour theory?

It’s the idea of matching make-up to skin tone. I attended a colour theory workshop to find out which colours suited me and found the concepts behind it fascinating.

Tones are associated to the four seasons and make-up is applied to harmonise and complement them. As I have a winter tone, I suit contrasting colours like black, emerald green and scarlet. The workshop also demonstrated how make-up can have a negative effect, as using the wrong tones can make people look tired and washed out. We’ve all seen people wearing make-up that doesn’t suit them (an olive tone doesn’t complement colder skin, for example) and that’s why in some cases wearing less make-up can make you look more radiant and youthful. Hair colour and clothing are also incorporated into colour theory, but at its heart is skin tone. This concept forms the foundation of my own business.

Some last minute adjustments before wedding photos! (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Is most of your business wedding related?

That’s where most of the demand comes from, but I do make-up for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays and hen parties too. I also provide one-toone sessions for people of all ages, so they can discover what works for them. It may be that someone is lacking confidence with skin conditions or allergies like rosacea, or a girl worried about acne on her prom night, or even a woman wanting to conceal a few wrinkles. We go through foundation techniques and find colours and products that complement them.

A trial run allows for problems to be dealt with before the big day (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Do people often have their own ideas?

Of course. Certainly when a bride tells a make-up artist the look they want, they will usually get what they ask for. But if I think it’s not right for them, based on their skin tone and texture, I’ll advise them and present alternatives. Often when I demonstrate colours that truly complement them, they’re amazed at the difference.

Another reason to have a trial is to avoid allergic reactions to products. I have heard horror stories about make-up artists who have gone to weddings without a trial and used glue or latex sponges that have triggered an allergic reaction. A trial gives you a safety net to prevent anything major going wrong on the big day and peace of mind for the bride too.

What happens if they don’t like it?

That’s why it’s important to have a bridal trial before the wedding day! It’s a chance to see how make-up sits on their skin, because it may look okay for an hour or so, but as the day goes on it could fade or become oily.

Weddings must be stressful at times?

They can be and in the early days, I found it quite overwhelming. There are many things that can go wrong - like the flowers arriving late or the bridal car breaking down - and this creates stress. The atmosphere can

38

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change quickly and the job of the make-up artist isn’t solely about technique. You need to manage stress and tension. It can be character-building at times, as somebody who was kind and lovely during the bridal trial might become rude and snappy because of a situation out of your control. It takes about two hours to do the bride’s make-up and then there’s bridesmaids and the mother-of-the-bride, so time is a key factor too.

Do you use certain brands?

I use Charlotte Tilbury, Hourglass, Dior, Chanel, Armani, Estée Lauder, Pat McGrath and other high-end products, because I offer a luxury service. When you do make-up for weddings and special occasions you need long-wearing, heat-resistant and water-resistant products that work for various scenarios.

How much influence does social media have on your trade?

Most people’s ideas for how they want to look are based on social media and in some instances, it has a damaging effect. Many of the pictures you see of models on Instagram are filtered and retouched. You don’t see skin tone and texture for what it really is, as images are airbrushed to appear flawless. When people ask me to recreate these looks, it can be hard to explain that these images don’t represent reality. You can only do so much with make-up. I use authentic photos and videos to explain how they will look in natural light and that helps put them at ease. Certainly, we all look in the mirror and focus on what we don’t like about ourselves and these insecurities are magnified on your wedding day. That’s another reason why bridal trials are important.

Was it difficult to gain a foothold in a competitive marketplace?

I was very fortunate in that my sister’s wedding took place when I’d only just started. That led to more work through family and friends and I built up my portfolio on Facebook and Instagram.

With each job, I made contacts with venues like Brookfield Barn and with freelance suppliers including hair stylists, florists and photographers.

Networking is vital in this business, as you can feel isolated as you don’t see the same people every day. Also, there’s no repeat customers, unless they get divorced! However, the business has snowballed to the point where I’m attending about 80 weddings a year.

You’ve been abroad too...

More couples are choosing to marry abroad. Sometimes, they ask for lessons so they can do their own make-up.

However, I have attended several

Last minute touch-ups on the bridge at Brookfield Barn (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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What are your hopes for the future?

I would love to develop my own team. As a freelance make-up artist working independently, I turn away countless enquiries during the peak of the wedding season. If I could grow a team of make-up artists and stylists, that would allow the business to expand. Also, many people are looking for hair and make-up packages for weddings, as it saves the hassle of seeking out freelancers. So, to offer that service with people who I know are talented and reliable would be the next step. Another goal would be to launch an academy to support the next generation of make-up artists, as they often find doors closed to them when they’re starting out. I’m also keen to run classes to help women suffering with chronic pain.

Is this something you have personally experienced?

I've had endometriosis since my teenage years and have needed three operations.

It was after speaking to doctors that I realised I needed a less demanding work

Kim and Helen at Brookfield Barn (©AAH/Alan Wright)

destination weddings in person, including in Italy and Croatia. It used to be hard for me to commit to these as I balanced my work at Waitrose, but now I have the flexibility to focus solely on my business as a full-time make-up artist.

schedule, as I wasn’t in the best health.

Shift work as a Store Manager was impacting on my wellbeing and I needed a change.

People with endometriosis can suffer from low self-esteem, so I’ve been in touch with a charity that helps people with chronic diseases, about running masterclasses. It think it can help, as make-up is fun and boosts people’s confidence.

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: kimberleylmakeup.com @kimberleylouisemakeup kimberleylouisemakeup Editor’s Note: AAH would like to thank Brookfield Barn, Mannings Heath, for kindly allowing us to use their venue for the photography in this feature. And for lending us a golf buggy to drive to the bridge! brookfieldbarn.co.uk

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QUALITY It’s not every day you see a swastika being waved around on the Capitol Theatre stage, but then it’s not every day that Horsham Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society (HAODS) perform The Producers.

Mel Brooks’ musical was a Broadway sensation, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards in 2001, and many HAODS members have wanted to stage their own version ever since. In May, they finally got the chance and revelled in bringing songs such as Springtime for Hitler to Horsham.

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PRODUCE 45

Cameron Rowell as the flamboyant Roger Debris (in the dress) and his assistant Carmen Ghia, played by Sam Berry (black jeans) ©AAH/Alan Wright)

The story follows the fortunes of Max Bialystock, renowned as the worst producer on Broadway, and his timid accountant Leo Bloom. When Bloom identifies a scenario in which a wellfinanced show that flops could make more money than a hit, the two men hatch a fool-proof plan. They buy the worst script ever, written by an ex-Nazi, and hire the worst director in town, the ludicrously camp and exuberant Roger Debris, who is forced to take on the lead role of Hitler and plays it the only way he know how. Inevitably, the show is hailed by the critics!

HAODS’ production was directed by Barrie Ward, who previously steered Hello Dolly! (2014) and Guys and Dolls (2012). Barrie said: “The Producers certainly isn’t “woke!” There’s very few people Mel Brooks doesn’t offend in this show and that’s the idea. During Springtime for Hitler, the actors are required to do a “Heil Hitler!” salute on stage. In any other scenario, you’d be locked-up for that, which demonstrates the importance of context.”

“For the cast, it’s been a wonderful experience. In rehearsals, members were writing on our WhatsApp chat that they’d had “the most bonkers day ever!”

It’s been that kind of show!”

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TOUR-DE-FORCE Barrie describes the lead role as Max Bialystock as a “tour-de-force” and “one of the hardest male parts in musical theatre.” Taking on this demanding role, Chris Dale was superb and had good chemistry with co-lead Michael Boucher as Leo Bloom.

Dominic Batchelor plays the role of Franz Liebkind (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Chris joined HAODS ten years ago, satisfying a desire to perform, despite having never sung or acted before. “For me, it's an opportunity to release a bit of energy,” he said. “After a long day, I go to HAODS and become someone else. I can dress up, add a touch of make-up, put on a voice and lose myself in a completely different character. If it was the normal me on stage, I’d probably freeze!”

The Producers is Chris’ favourite musical and taking on the lead role has been a long-held ambition. “The Producers is a farce, full of silly, slapstick humour, but at its heart has a wonderful story and a stunning score,” he says. “It has the songs of a classic Broadway musical but with a bonkers Mel Brooks twist.”

Chris Dale was superb as Max Bialystock (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Michael joined more recently and took on his first HAODS role in the previous production, Sister Act, the society’s first for two years. With Sister Act having been in the pipeline for so long, the return to a regular six-month timespan for The Producers meant the rehearsal period seemed comparatively frenetic.

Michael is also a fan of the musical, even if it isn’t on everyone’s radar.

“When you talk about The Producers, people have either never heard of it or absolutely love it,” he says. “I think the fact it has Hitler in it may put some people off, but if they watched it they’d be blown away. Certainly, it was great fun to be a part of.”

GOOD RAPPORT Bloom’s love interest is Ulla, played by Kat Merrick. Ulla is the only major female role in a male-dominated production (a reversal of Sister Act and the upcoming production of 9 to 5, both of which will be directed by long-serving female members of HAODS) and this marks Kat’s first involvement with the society.

She said: “I only moved to Horsham from London last year and the first thing I did was research amateur dramatic societies. I knew it would be a good way to make friends and everyone here has been very welcoming. Being cast as Ulla was unexpected and it’s been brilliant working on The Producers, as my previous society only staged Gilbert and Sullivan musicals.”

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Michael Boucher as Leo Bloom sings I Wanna Be a Producer (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The “little old ladies” perform Along Came Bialy (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The social benefits ensure that HAODS remains strong 65 years after it was founded, despite a difficult period. COVID limited the society to one show in a twoyear period where they’d normally have four or five. Prior to that, the society was forced to move fro its long-term home at Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, which was demolished to make way for The Bridge. HAODS House - which includes a workshop, rehearsal space and storage for its vast collection of costumes and props - is now in Hurst Road.

Chris Dale as Max Bialystock secures more financing... (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Martin Bracewell, Production Manager on The Producers, said: “When we were looking for a new base, the most important thing was to keep the rehearsal and workshop space in the same unit. It’s important to have a close relationship between cast and crew. That’s one reason why the society has a community feel.”

“I’ve been in other societies where there’s little interaction between the actors and those behind the scenes. They’re treated almost as second-class citizens. Here, people get involved in all aspects of the society and that's our strength. It’s diverse and inclusive, with people of all ages

involved in HAODS and Junior HAODS, and that’s why people stay here for so long.

I met my wife, Becca, at HAODS and there are several other married couples too, so the HAODS dating agency is going well!”

BANKER SHOWS As well as painstakingly making colourful costumes, creating impressive props and sets and choreographing dance routines in-house, the society hires a Musical Director for its productions. As well as providing a few nights’ work to professional musicians, the sound created by a 12-piece 49

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HAODS perform The Producers (©AAH/Alan Wright)

live band give shows a professional quality, worthy of the Capitol stage. This makes it more important for productions to play to big audiences, to recoup the substantial costs involved. However, the need to balance the books must be considered along with the creative desires of the cast and crew, as Martin explains…

“Audiences loved The Producers and the feedback has been fantastic. It just didn't sell enough tickets. However, we always suspected that would be the case. As a society, we take a rollercoaster approach.

There are “banker” shows like My Fair Lady, which people know and love, or Annie, which 50

Some of the little old ladies in The Producers (©AAH/Alan Wright)

has lots of roles for children and that equally helps at the Box Office, while also potentially engaging new audiences and cast members.”

“But to satisfy our internal creativity, we need to offer variety and occasionally choose something that’s more edgy, like Made in Dagenham or The Witches of Eastwick. In recent years, we’ve staged A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Wendy and Peter Pan, which are more akin to theatrical plays and gave people the chance to test themselves as actors and improve their stagecraft. The Producers falls into this category. Sister Act was a huge hit,

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but The Producers gave many cast members the opportunity to fulfil a longheld ambition.”

Further information: HAODS presents 9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, at the Capitol Theatre on 8 – 12 November.

For tickets, call (01403) 750220 or visit thecapitolhorsham.com For HAODS membership enquiries, visit haods.co.uk HAODShorsham WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright

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KNIGHT CLUB

Horsham Chess Club(©AAH/Alan Wright)

PEOPLE OF ALL AGES ARE TURNING TO THE GAME OF KINGS

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Horsham Chess Club is one of the oldest in Sussex, having been founded in 1879. It continues to punch above its weight with two sides in the top division of the Mid Sussex League, while also striving to introduce younger players to the game through its junior section. As the club recovers from COVID, faster forms of the game are helping to attract the next generation. AAH attended an in-house ‘lightning’ chess tournament to find out more…

ONE BAD MOVE Horsham competes in the Mid Sussex League, affiliated to the English Chess Federation. It is one of the strongest clubs in the county, with three sides across the league’s two divisions and two in the 1st Division, where they face the likes of Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Worthing, and Hastings & St Leonard’s. At each fixture there are five boards, with players paired based on their ranking.

Ian Comley, Club Chairman, said: “If you make a bad move early on, you may well find yourself resigning your King early and spending three hours sat in the corner waiting for the other boards to finish!

Sometimes you can spend the entirety of the game simply trying to survive after a poor move and if you manage to earn a

draw, that can feel like a win, which could be the difference between your team winning and losing.”

“Horsham is one of the better clubs in Sussex, with a number of good players. We have had more teams in the past, as we entered six in the league at our peak a decade ago, but three is still very good when you consider towns like Crawley have lost their chess clubs completely. We regularly compete with Hastings at the top of Division 1. They have a Grandmaster on their top board, and even though none of us are quite that strong, it’s a chance for our top-ranked player to test themselves. One of our strengths is that we’re a very friendly club and provide opportunities for people to play at all levels. Then, after a club night, we go to The Malt Shovel and chat about tactics over a pint!”

43 54

Ian Comley, Chairman of Horsham Chess Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

ROOK CUP In addition to league fixtures, Horsham hosts a range of in-house competitions and tournaments. The Club Championship has several tiers, meaning players of all abilities and ranking can compete and work their way towards the top tier, the Rook section. There are also various knockout competitions and quick-play contests, including the lightning tournament. In this fast-thinking format, players must move on a buzzer that sounds every ten seconds, or forfeit the game. It promotes both laughter and frustration, as time constraints make it all too easy to make a fatal mistake!

While these new formats may inject excitement, they don’t usually affect a player’s ranking, as Club Secretary Anthony Higgs explains...

Juniors develop their skills before the adults session (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“The ranking system has changed so that a player has a rating usually between 400 – 2,000, or more if you’re a Grandmaster or near that level. The more you win, the higher your rating. If you draw to somebody of a similar rating, it wouldn't change, but if you beat a theoretically stronger opponent or lose to somebody supposedly weaker, your rating points go up or down accordingly. What is great about this is that the World Champion has a rating and so do beginners.

Sometimes, you come up against a promising junior who has a low ranking and is technically underrated. However, the ranking system means that players are normally pitched against an evenlymatched opponent.”

“We all take great pride in defeating a higher rated player. It’s like the FA Cup, when a non-league team beats a side from the Premier League. Most of the time, result go as expected, but just occasionally the game surprises you, as you see different styles of play. That’s one of the joys of it. Chess is easy to learn but takes a lifetime to master!”

55

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QUEEN’S GAMBIT

Collyer’s also has a chess team in the Mid Sussex League (©AAH/Alan Wright)

While chess continues to attract young players, the game is still dominated by men and the success of Netflix drama The Queen’s Gambit hasn’t led to an influx of female players, in Horsham at least.

Alex Taylor feels the game’s image makes it difficult to appeal to women.

“It may be to do with the environment, as it’s natural to feel uncomfortable when you’re surrounded by middle-class, white men. If you look at the professional game, there are 16 men for every woman, yet it should be an inclusive game where age and physicality isn’t a defining factor. At Collyer’s, we have two girls out of a group of 15, so the ratio is a little better, but we’d like to achieve an even balance in future.”

Horsham has fared better than most clubs, with members having included former Under-18 British Girls Champion Amy Hoare, and Julie Denning, who has fulfilled many committee roles at local, county, regional and national associations and federations during more than 50 years in chess.

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Julie said: “There's never been more than a handful of women at Horsham and that’s unfortunately the case at chess clubs generally. I have done a lot of work with the national federation and there’s now an emphasis on increasing female participation. Through primary school, there’s an even split between boys and girls, but girls tend to give it up in their teens at a faster rate than boys. This may be down to the game’s image or perhaps it’s down to other pressures and commitments.”

“Since the lockdown, we have seen more people take up chess online and some have taken their interest a step further and come down to club nights. Although I prefer the traditional format, faster forms of chess are helping to attract a new generation and after a difficult period, the club is now back to being as healthy as it was pre-pandemic.”

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information horshamchessclub.org.uk Horsham Chess Club meets at London Road Methodist Church, Horsham, on Tuesday evenings (there’s a summer break in July and August).

Juniors: 6:25 - 7:25pm Adults: 7:30 - 10.30pm

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FAMILY FEELING THE INDEPENDENT FIRM DELIVERING CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

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Marlene Riecker, who founded Ascot Care, and son Lagin, now Registered Manager (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Ascot Care is an independent, familyowned business providing care services in the Horsham District. Marlene Riecker founded the company in 2008 with support from husband Randolph. In the years since, Ascot Care – known for its familiar sunflower logo - has made a positive difference to the lives of hundreds of local people. As Marlene passes the baton to son, Lagin, who has spent the past five years as Operations Manager, we look at how the business bloomed from its humble beginnings…

SMALL ACORNS Marlene previously worked as a mental health nurse at Horsham Hospital, before services moved to Langley Green, Crawley.

After a short respite from the demanding role, she felt a strong desire to help and support older people in the community.

Marlene recalls: “I shared my idea with friends and family and they were very supportive, as they know what kind of person I am and how much I love caring for others. But having previously worked as an NHS nurse, I didn’t comprehend the financial aspects of setting up a business, or the regulations involved in care provision. All I knew was that I wanted to make a difference and improve the lives of elderly and vulnerable people. Also, the idea of covering all aspects of care in my career, from maternity to eternity, appealed to me.”

After researching the industry, Marlene learned that care providers need to register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. The CQC ensures people receive high quality care and its performance ratings help the public find accredited care providers in their local area. It took nine months for Marlene’s business to be approved and only then could Ascot Care expand.

Marlene said: “Initially, I was doing everything myself, travelling to a handful of clients to help them with things like shopping and meals. You’re legally required to be CQC-registered if you are employing people to provide personal care to others, which includes helping them wash, dress or use the toilet. Now, I am protective of our hard-earned CQC rating of ‘Good’ as there are unregulated companies operating.”

SIGNS OF SUCCESS

Ascot Care has a team of devoted care workers (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Ascot Care steadily grew through hard work and commitment to its clients.

Randolph played a vital role in setting up the IT framework and business administration systems, while Marlene worked on the front line, often putting in over 60 hours a week. “It was like a treadmill in the early days,” she says. “I barely had time to think! I just had to keep going and gradually we started to grow our clientele through word of mouth.”

“We ran the business from home and our two sons would often come home from school to see staff being trained in the front room. Then in 2013, we moved into new premises in King’s Court and have been there ever since. From those small roots, we now have a team of about 70 staff.

However, it remains a family business at heart, committed to serving the people of Horsham and surrounding areas.”

POSITIVE DIFFERENCE The company provides three types of care: Live-in care, Night care and Domiciliary care. Live-in care is where care workers stay in the client’s own home, helping them live independent lives for as long as possible. This one-to-one care can cover 24-hours a day and as well as ensuring safety and personal care, allows for flexibility with things like the client’s meal times and lifestyle.

Domiciliary care is where support and personal care is provided through home visits, which may be just once or twice a week or several times each day. Care workers may help with bathing, dressing and undressing, or assisting them with shopping or health appointments. Night care is where a care worker is there throughout the night, perhaps because the client has irregular sleep patterns, or to give respite to a full-time carer.

The business moved to King’s Court in 2013 (©AAH/Alan Wright) 60

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

www.ascotcare.com l 01403 218511

Lagin, now Registered Manager at Ascot Care, said: “We can offer everything from basic companionship to more complex care needs, including spinal cord injuries that may require regular hoisting in and out of bed. In terms of ages, our youngest client is 21 and the oldest is 99.

However, while we look after some vulnerable clients with learning difficulties or disabilities, it’s mostly older people we care for. Some suffer with different types of dementia and need help with things like medication and all of our staff are thoroughly trained in medication administration.”

“For others, it’s more about companionship. Families are increasingly spread further afield and people can easily find themselves isolated in old age.

Many of the clients we provide Live-in care for have family in other countries. They do everything they can to connect with them, but can't physically help. So, we play an important role in caring for them, offering assurance and peace of mind.

The important thing for us is to make a positive difference.”

HEALTHY CHANGE When it comes to care, there are two main concerns clients and their families usually consider.

The first is cost: how much care do they require and what are the financial implications? The second is quality of care: will they be treated with honesty and dignity? People are especially cautious now, as some care homes have been closed after failing to meet the standard set by the CQC. Marlene said: “There have been negative headlines regarding adult social care in this country.

There are things that can be improved and we are determined to transform the culture of care in our local area. The vast majority of care workers are good, hard-working people doing this noble job because it’s extremely rewarding. Certainly, we’re very careful when it comes to our recruitment process.”

Lagin adds that the CQC approval instills extra confidence in Ascot Care, and that clients appreciate it’s an independent, family-run company.

“We’re not a franchise or a big care agency,” he said. “We know our community and share our knowledge with clients. Also, our care workers stay with us for long periods and that leads to continuity. With regular care workers, there’s a rapport and trust with clients, which benefits everyone. We look after care workers too, which is vital.

Sometimes, we have three or even four people involved in looking after one client. Some clients like the change, while others don't like switching as they like seeing the same face all the time. However, that can lead to difficulties when that care worker needs a break, so change is healthy and offers everyone respite.”

A LITTLE LOVE There have been recent changes at the top of Ascot Care, with Lagin taking over as Registered Manager, although Marlene and Randolph continue to be Directors. Marlene said: “Lagin has grown incredibly in terms of his leadership skills and is ready.

If it wasn’t for Lagin and our dedicated staff, I wouldn't have coped during COVID, as it was a tough time for the care industry.

Lagin has a good understanding of care provision and what the role entails, as it isn’t just a job.

Care’s not a 9 - 5 businesses and companies like ours make a positive difference every minute of every day, spreading a little bit of kindness and love.”

Further information: Call Ascot Care on (01403) 218511 or visit ascotcare.com

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More mortgage rate rises are anticipated The recent announcement by the Bank of England that the base rate was to rise for the fourth time in five months did not really come as much of a surprise.

With the rate of inflation now at a 40-year high with the headline CPI rate hitting 9% in April, the move by the Bank of England (BoE) to contain escalating living costs was widely anticipated by the mortgage market.

The recent rise from 0.75% to 1.00% now means rates are back to pre-pandemic levels, the highest they have been since March 2020. While historically rates remain low, the escalating cost of living, soaring energy prices and the ongoing war in Ukraine are increasing economic uncertainty and pushing household budgets to the limit.

It has never been more important for homeowners to consider the impact of the base rate rise on finances.”

Future rate rises are also anticipated over the coming months, coupled with the increase to the energy price cap and the national insurance contributions hike which came into effect in April, is likely to exacerbate the situation even further.

This means it has never been more important for all homeowners and potential borrowers to consider the impact of the base rate rise on their household finances, particularly as the increase will almost certainly be passed on to consumers by lenders. For those borrowers already feeling the strain or those concerned about the rising cost of living, it would be better to act sooner rather than later.

Finally, with everything that’s going on, we’re seeing the next generation of adverse credit coming through. The biggest increase at the moment we’re seeing is car parking fines. People do not want to pay a silly little charge because they went over their time allowance at a superstore, but then they may ignore the private parking charge firms chasing them down. However, these can escalate into a registered adverse item and ultimately affect the ability to achieve competitive finance.

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HELPING HAND

FUTURE UNCLEAR FOR HOLBROOK ANIMAL RESCUE

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Laura and Cliff Santini at Holbrook Animal Rescue (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Holbrook Animal Rescue faces a fight for survival as the new Mowbray development edges ever closer to its Horsham location.

The charity’s founders are now seeking a new home so they can continue caring for a wide range of animals…

What is Holbrook Animal Rescue?

It’s an animal rescue centre based in Old Holbrook, Horsham and has been run by Laura and Cliff Santini since its foundation 28 years ago. It mostly looks after and re-homes dogs and is one of the few kennel-free centres in the country.

Laura says: “Dogs enjoy themselves here.

They run free most of the day and any dog coming here is very lucky. We assess the animals, give them food, shelter, veterinary care and regular walks. When dogs are in kennels, it can be difficult to gauge their temperate, but we go the extra mile, finding out if a certain dog is good with people or other dogs and animals, so we can find ideal homes for them.”

Does the centre look after any animals apart from dogs?

Yes. There’s a paddock where the centre keeps sheep, goats and ponies. It has some cats too, although there are very good charities (such as Cats Protection) that largely meet public demand. Laura said: “We will always do our best for every animal. We offer a full service, so even when someone finds injured wildlife such as rabbits, deer or hedgehogs, we will point them in the right direction or even take in the animal and transport it to a specialist centre ourselves.”

But now the centre’s under threat from new housing, right?

The north Horsham development, now named Mowbray, has been looming over the centre for years and building is now well underway. The site will eventually comprise a retail park and about 2,750 houses. Laura said: “When the development was given the go-ahead years ago, we appealed to landowners to find a new home. We hoped

we would find somewhere relatively easily, but that hasn’t happened and now construction work is getting ever closer and our need is becoming more urgent.”

Is staying not an option?

No. There is an option agreement on the land where the animal centre is located.

That means the developer and the owner have a contract in place, allowing the buyer to serve notice upon the seller to sell the property. Holbrook Animal Rescue is located on property owned by Laura’s mum, Sylvia. It’s a complex situation, but the rescue centre rents part of the land and property from Sylvia, who is also passionate about animals. She is now residing in a care home, while Cliff and Laura look after the property until the developer takes up its option on the land. Laura said: “Mum’s wish is for the property to be sold, as she wants to help all of her family and close friends, not just us, and we will honour that.”

Laura Santini with dogs at Holbrook Animal Rescue (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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When will notice come?

That’s the million dollar question! It could be imminent, it could be two or three years down the line, which makes it difficult to plan ahead. Laura said: “If we found a new site, we could start putting down the hardstanding required and prepare for the safe transfer of the animals. But what we are most worried about is that we won’t have found a new site by the time we need to move.

Unfortunately, we haven't heard much from the developers, so we’re in the dark as to how long we have here.”

So, what is it they need?

They would like to buy a field or land in the Horsham District with a small property for the two of them to live in and space for the animals. A bonus would be potential to build a small visitor’s centre in future. Laura said: “Finding land we can afford locally is a problem, but it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that someone out there is passionate about animals and can offer us land at a reasonable price. It has to

be away from residential areas because of the barking, but we can be quite flexible otherwise.

Horsham District Council knows of our plight and has been supportive, but ultimately it’s up to us to find a new location. We've had plenty of leads, but nothing has materialised.”

Why is it important they own the land?

Because of the risk involved in spending large amounts of the charity’s money on fencing and shelters for the animals, only to be told that they have to vacate rented land after six months or a year. “We have the same dilemma on our current site,” says Laura. “We have built a new office and the roof of the house needs repairing, but we need to be careful as every penny we spend here could be spent on furnishing a new location.”

Is there a risk of the rescue centre closing?

The charity’s financial position is strong. The volunteers are good at fundraising and its Laura Santini feeds one of the centre’s Shetland ponies (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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excellent re-homing record brings in donations too. Laura said: “We have been saving our own money over many years and we could relocate to Kent quite quickly. But we don’t want to. Horsham is our home and I've lived here all my life and people know about the service we offer for dogs locally.”

Is that the only reason why it needs to stay in the District?

The centre also has a dedicated team of about 80 volunteers, some of whom have helped for many years and become close friends. Laura said: “For lots of our volunteers, the rescue centre helps with their mental health, contributing to their wellbeing. We need them to run the place efficiently, but they need the animals too. The dogs are like little heroes for our volunteers!”

Goats at Holbrook Animal Rescue (©AAH/Alan Wright)

A deer and rabbit made friends at Holbrook in 2011 (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2011) 66 36

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If it was to close, wouldn’t other animal charities step in to fill the void?

Cats are well looked after, with plenty of charities in Sussex.

However, there is a big demand for re-homing centres for dogs and Holbrook often finds itself running at capacity (about 35 dogs). Laura said: “I received a call from someone in north London recently and they said nobody else could take their dog, as they were full. Charities like the RSPCA and Battersea are brilliant, but are struggling with the number of dogs they are being asked to care for.”

Has that demand grown since the pandemic?

Sadly, that seems to be the case. Laura said: “We’ve noticed that during the past six months.

People bought a puppy for company or because they were struggling with isolation during the lockdown, but had to give them up when they went back to work. So, we're seeing dogs that are only 18 months or two years old. People are also struggling with the cost of living as bills and food prices rise, so they can’t look after pets. It doesn't matter what walks through the door, whether it's a 14-year-old dog with only a year or two left to live, or a puppy or even a rabbit, we do our best for them. We also see a few cockerels. Schools use them to show children how eggs are laid, but then they tire of the noise!”

So it’s important that Holbrook survives…

Laura and Cliff have been running the centre for 28 years and hope that a new site can be found and the charity can continue in future. Laura said: “We want to ensure that the sanctuary is well-equipped so that long after we are both gone, Holbrook Animal Rescue will live on.”

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright/Toby Phillips Further information: Holbrook Animal Rescue Old Holbrook, Horsham, RH12 4TW holbrookanimalrescue.com (01403) 248745 holbrookanimalrescue

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Cliff Santini at Holbrook Animal Rescue (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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