AAH (All About Horsham) October 2023

AAH (ALL ABOUT HORSHAM) OCTOBER 2023

CONTENTS

7

NEWS ROUND-UP

Tough Mudder held at the Holmbush Estate and consultation on Gatwick expansion.

LIFESTYLE 23

Duncan and Kate Heath have built Hazel Hide, a triangular cabin in rural Ashington.

ANIMALS 27

ABC Animal Sanctuary has continued to thrive, despite the sad passing of its founder.

THEATRE 30

John Partridge looks forward to his starring role in this year’s Capitol pantomime.

PRODUCE 37

Crates Local, which sells and serves the best local food and drink, celebrates its 10th year.

SPORT 42

Horsham Sparrows Women have gained promotion to the Sussex Premier division.

RESTAURANTS 49

The Wiston Estate has opened a restaurant, Chalk, in the heart of the South Downs.

SPIRITS 57

Goldstone Rum in Henfield makes spirits that are proudly promoted as Sussex produce.

EVENTS 63

The Floral Fringe Fair at Loxwood Meadow celebrates all things quirky and eccentric.

COVER STORY

The October 2023 cover features Kirsty and Richard Goring at the Wiston Estate, Washington. Ben (AAH editor) visited Chalk with his wife, Kelly, and enjoyed a wonderful lunch with the Gorings, chatting about food, wine and children’s football!

Alan (AAH photographer) returned a couple of weeks later for pictures of the restaurant and staff. He used the flint wall of Chalk for a shot of the kitchen and front-of-house team, with the bright sun limiting his options. He then stepped into the winery for this shot of Kirsty and Richard, setting up studio lighting in front of a stunning wooden display case that holds many of the award-winning wines made at Wiston.

Other contenders for the cover included the team of Crates Local in Horsham’s Carfax, Cheryl Tofield-Cook at ABC Animal Sanctuary and Stephen and Jean Jackman, organisers of the Floral Fringe Fair, in a 1912 Model T.

ABOUT US

AAH is an independent monthly magazine, founded back in 2011. Here’s our cover from 12 years ago, featuring cadets from 1015 Squadron (Oct 2011). The magazine is owned by Ben Morris, a lifelong resident of the District.

EDITOR

Ben Morris editor@aahorsham.co.uk

(01903) 892899

AAH, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT

PHOTOGRAPHER

Alan Wright alanwrightphotography.co.uk

07747 617387

Alan works for AAH as a freelancer and is available for all commercial work.

DOOR-TO-DOOR DISTRIBUTION TEAM: Jacquie Paterson, Hazel Garner, Jill Shuker, Bloomfield family, Eve Lovett, Gavira family, Harvey Dold, Alessandro Cavallo, Jack Nicholls, Charlie Merchant, Harry Baker, Walker family, Ben Raymond, Joseph Down (Horsham). Katie Drysdale & William Fuglsig (Highwood), Chapman family (Southwater), Palmer family (BBH), Luke Butcher (Manns Heath), Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst)

ADVERTISING

As a free magazine, AAH is grateful to the support of all its advertisers! If you’d like to find out more about promoting your business in AAH (you know it’s the best one, right?) please do get in touch with Ben. We offer every 6th advert free of charge, like a cafe. We can also design ads if you need help!

ADVERT RATES (Per month/edition)

Eighth Page: £55 + VAT (93mm x 63mm)

Quarter Page: £110 + VAT (93mm x 133mm - portrait or landscape)

Half Page: £185 + VAT (190mm x 133mm)

We also have the long, upright shape

Full Page: £310 + VAT (A4 with 4mm bleed)

Double Page: £520 + VAT (A4 with 4mm bleed

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Ben Morris editor@aahorsham.co.uk advertising@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899

2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT

THANK YOU! Hazel Garner, who has delivered to homes around parts of Comptons Lane for more than 5 years, moves on after getting a new job. Best of luck for the future – to you and your family!

SPRING-LOADED STANDS

AAH is also available in our stands at local businesses, clubs and shops.

Horsham: Swan Walk (outside M&S), Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, John Lewis, Horsham

FC, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Carfax), The Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric), Steban’s Hair Salon.

Village Stands: Newbridge Nurseries, The Bridge Leisure Centre (BBH) CoCos’ Salon & Beeson House (Southwater), Billingshurst Leisure

Centre, Coco’s Salon (Billingshurst), Bluecoat

Sports Centre (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), Chanctonbury Leisure Centre, Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington), The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Meadow Stores (Thakeham), Golden Plaice (Ashington), Rusper Village Stores (Rusper)

Supermarkets: In association with Self Select Distribution, AAH is available at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath and Sainsbury’s Horsham

EDITOR’S NOTES

A LITTLE BIT OF BARBIE GIRL DOWN AT SUMNERS PONDS

I love Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing

Not really because of the fishing, as they don’t catch a great deal, but for the friendship, humour, honesty and quaint touches of wild, rural beauty.

One of its enduring strengths is that there’s no need to manufacture drama; instead the two hosts conjure genuinely amusing moments from seemingly mundane scenarios, such as Bob failing to navigate a grass verge that can’t be more than a foot high. ‘I’ve lost all my confidence, Paul!’ I wish my own fishing expeditions were as uneventful and relaxing as theirs. But they’re not.

For someone who has been fishing as many times as I have, I’m not very good. I think that’s mainly because I spend most of my time untangling lines and replacing floats, only for one of the children to cast it straight into the trees again. So, the temptation to experiment with baits or dabble with ledgers or flies is usurped by the constant battle to simply get a rod on the water! Nonetheless, when I go fishing, strange things do seem to happen…

Last summer, I caught a turtle. This was a surprise, seeing as I was fishing in a pond near Ashington. I knew something wasn’t right when I was reeling it in and half expected to see a Wellington boot on the end of my line. When we saw a reptilian head and a hard shell, my son thought it was hilarious, naturally. “Only you could catch a turtle, dad!”

Not so funny was getting the hook out. We use barbless hooks, but nonetheless, it wasn’t like unhooking a fish. Its jaws were so strong that we had to be wary about getting our fingers bitten, so my won held its mouth open with forceps. The tongue muscles were so tough that it took a while for me to twist out the hook and it was a relief when I finally achieved it.

Then we had the problem of what do to with it. We couldn’t put the turtle back, as it might disrupt the eco system and cause some other fisherman the same problem! Fortunately, I remembered that years ago, we featured Rangers Lodge Wildlife Rescue Centre in AAH. It was a relief to find it still open. We transported the turtle in a bucket of water and – after leaving it at the lodge – were asked to make a donation. So, as well as ruining a day’s fishing, it cost me £20. They kept my bucket too, and the next time I washed my van, I had to use another bucket I’d previously used to mix cement. A tiny chip got wedged in the sponge and I ended up causing a scratch over the wheel arch! So, if you’ve ever dumped a turtle in an Ashington pond, cheers!

Then last month, I was enjoying a relaxing weekend break at Sumners Ponds in Barns Green, staying in a lakeside pod with my youngest son. Despite all our talk of spending a day at the Match Lake, where we might try new tactics to catch different kinds of fish, we both ended up lazily float fishing in Farm Pond, which doesn’t offer the world’s greatest challenge for anglers. Early on Sunday morning, as I was brewing up a morning cuppa on the gas stove, there was a mighty commotion.

A duck was flapping across the pond, squawking like crazy! By some terrible misfortune, a young boy had hooked a duck at the other end of the pond. It had pounced on his bait before it could sink! Understandably, the boy looked frantically around for help, but nobody was around, as he was an early riser. So, I ran to help and found myself lying on the wooden decking, lifting the poor bird out of the water, trying to hold it with one hand while unhooking it with the other. ‘It’s okay buddy, I’ve done this before! With turtles!’

Fortunately, a member of staff arrived and helped too, reassuring the boy that it happens from time to time. True or not, it seemed to make him feel a little less awful. My son emerged from his point and looked at me, shaking his head.

“It wasn’t me! Honest!”

I spent the rest of the day focused half on the fishing, half on people watching, which is what I love most about such days. There’s the boy on

NEW AAH STAND AT HORSHAM FOOTBALL CLUB

the pontoon, being very careful with his casting now and throwing bread towards the duck by way of apology; there’s the lone fisherman, dropping the line right under his own jetty, convinced a monster fish is lurking inches away; there’s the shirtless group of teenage boys who give each other about thirty seconds to catch something before declaring their mates ‘bloody useless’ and grabbing the rod with a macho boast of their own prowess; and there’s the excitable dad, taking his young children fishing for the first time.

It was the dad and his children who provided the most entertainment. Not just because they had to let the whole campsite know whenever they had a bite, but also for the songs the dad sang whenever they landed a fish. It started with a silver bream, which was accompanied by a surprisingly tuneful rendition of Dreams by Gabrielle with a fishy twist.

‘Breams can come true!’

We chuckled about that as we tucked into a cinnamon-flavoured porridge pot and speculated what he might sing if he caught a carp. We thought of songs with ‘harp’ or ‘sharp’ in the title, but the best we could come up with was a Dizzee Rascal song, Fix Up, Look Sharp! But that seemed to lack comedic value.

We had to wait a couple of hours to find our answer, and it didn’t disappoint.

‘Come on Carpy, let’s go party!’ What a wonderful way to wrap up a day’s fishing.

We have a new magazine dispenser at Horsham Football Club. Visitors to the clubhouse can now pick up a free copy of AAH each month from the bespoke green and yellow stand. The stand is our 31st in the District. For a full list of outlets, see the list on the opposite page. The magazine can also be found at Sainsbury’s in Horsham and Tesco in Broadbridge Heath, in partnership with Self Select Distribution.

The AAH editor enjoys a day’s fishing in Barns Green

NEWS ROUND-UP

Announcements & Events from across the Horsham District Email submissions

Gatwick Airport Ltd (GAL) and the Planning Inspectorate are inviting members of the public to have their say on proposals to expand the airport’s capacity.

The Gatwick Airport Project proposes alterations to the existing northern runway which, along with lifting current restrictions on its use, would enable dual runway operations. The Project also includes the development of a range of infrastructure and facilities to allow increased airport passenger numbers and aircraft operations.

John Partridge will play Captain Gastof in The Capitol’s festive pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, which opens on 1 December. John has graced both screen and stage and is perhaps best-known for his role as Christian Clarke in EastEnders and for playing Rum Tum Tugger in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. Other cast members include Lizzie Emery as Princess Belle, James Camp as Fromage, Justin Brett as Dame Susie Saucisson, Alison Arnopp as Madame Dubonnet, Mike Slader as Pickle and Chris Short, who takes on the dual role of Prince and Beast. Directed by Julie Atherton. Tickets cost from £20 from thecapitolhorsham.com

Gatwick says that using the second runway routinely could create 14,000 new jobs and inject £1billion into the region’s economy every year.

As a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), the proposal is being considered under the 2008 Planning Act, which means that the Planning Inspectorate makes a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Transport, who will decide the application. Horsham District Council is actively engaged in developments and its

Deichmann will soon be opening a branch in Swan Walk, Horsham. The shop sells stylish, affordable shoes for men and women in a range of styles including trainers, smart shoes, walking boots, slippers, sandals and running shoes. The company, one of the leading footwear retailers in the UK with more than 100 branches, supplies leading brands including Hush Puppies, Skechers, Clarks, Landrover, Adidas, Fila, Puma and Nike. The shop will also sell shoes for children of all ages, from fashionable trainers to smart school shoes. Diechmann’s arrival will create several new jobs in the town. deichmann.com

formal response to public consultations held to date can be found online (horsham.gov.uk/ planning/planning-policy/ responses-to-planning-consultations).

Anyone wishing to have a say in the process must ensure representations are received by the Planning Inspectorate by Sunday 29 October 2023.

https://national-infrastructure-consenting. planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/ TR020005/register/register-have-your-say/

Horsham Matters, which runs the Horsham District Foodbank, is hosting its first Silent Auction at the Capitol Theatre, Horsham, on Tuesday 17 October. The free event will showcase several auction items including art, experiences and much more. All monies raised will help fund the work the charity does in the community, including the foodbank, energy provision and supplying essential household items. The charity provided 9,069 emergency food parcels to people facing hardship across the District during 2022, with 3,670 of these going to children. Visit the fundraising event page at horsham-matters.org.uk or email info@horsham-matters.org.uk

Gatwick Airport is proposing to use the existing northern runway (@Gatwick Airport)

Horsham Music Circle hosts Harry the Piano, one of the world’s most gifted improvising pianists, at St Mary’s Church, Causeway, on Saturday 25 November, 7pm. Harry’s talent has taken him around the world, playing for Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, with his classical training apparent in both his knowledge of repertoire and formidable technique. Expect classical favourites, show tunes, seasonal melodies and requests. Tickets £18 (U18s free) from wegottickets.com/HorshamMusicCircle

Horsham Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (HAODS) perform Hairspray at The Capitol Theatre, Horsham, on 7 – 11 November, 7.30pm (Saturday performances at 2pm and 7pm). The cast offer a taster of the show at the Carfax Bandstand on Saturday 21 and 28 October, 11am – 1pm. Hairspray is a family-friendly musical, piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance and tunes. It’s 1962 in Baltimore and lovable teen Tracy Turnblad has only one desire – to dance on the Corny Collins Show. When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. Tickets cost from £19.50 from thecapitolhorsham.com

The Mediaeval Baebes perform The Procession, a Christmas Concert, at St Mary’s Church, Horsham, on Monday 18 December, 7.30pm (doors open 7pm). The evening begins with a torch-lit procession with families, musicians and re-enactors invited to join the group by bringing a drums, lanterns, or dressing up for this immersive experience. The classical

A daTe for your diary

chart-topping choir then showcase Christmas carols and traditional folk songs, alongside tracks from their seasonal album, MydWynter The Mediaeval Baebes have released 11 studio albums and won an Ivor Novella Award for their performance on BBC serialisation, The Virgin Queen. Tickets £27.50 (£12.50 children) from mediaevalbaebes.com

A&H Quarter page.qxp_Layout 1 19/09/2023 16:32 Page 1

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South Lodge in Lower Beeding is set to launch six detached lakeside lodges and two spa lodges next summer. Situated around the hotel’s lake, the lodges include two-bedrooms, open plan living space and a range of modern features, with lake views and natural light enhancing a connection with the surrounding environment. Called The Reeds, each lodge will have its own steam shower, outdoor whirlpool bath and infrared halotherapy sauna. A ‘fabric-first’ approach to design has prioritsed energy efficiency, with tanks to harvest and filter rainwater to reuse, and water source heat pumps generating heating. Rates will start at £1,200 per night. exclusive.co.uk/south-lodge/ the-reeds

Residents of Woodgate, Pease Pottage are raising funds for a village shop. The new shop will be located at the heart of Woodgate and donated by the development company, Thakeham. Managed by residents, the shop will primarily serve the 619 homes at Woodgate, as well as established homes in Pease Pottage. A share offer has been launched by the management committee, Woodgate Community Hub Ltd, to raise £50,000 to fund start-up costs. The hub is also working with the Plunkett Foundation, a charity supporting community initiatives. The share offer is open to individuals and organisations.

woodgatecommunityshop.co.uk

Lifespring Church has approached Horsham District Council with a proposal to use the Drill Hall in Denne Road, Horsham. The church has submitted a plan to acquire the building and develop it as a community hub and conference centre, as well as its administrative base and place of worship. Its aim is to support community functions including a family hub and registered contact centre, toddler groups, after-school and holiday clubs, youth services and a community café. The building could also host courses and provide advice on topics such as life skills and debt advice, and be used for musical performances, art exhibits, conferences and meetings. Lifespring will be holding round table feedback sessions with current Drill Hall users concerning its future. wearelifespring.church/drillhall

The Reeds lodges will be built around the lakes at South Lodge Hotel (©Exclusive Hotels)

A Celebration of Poetry will take place at St Margaret’s Church, Warnham, on Saturday 14 October, 6pm. Organised by the Shelley Memorial Project (SMP), the evening of poetry sees Roger McGough, the renowned poet and presenter of Poetry Please on Radio 4, take to the stage. Sussex poet and SMP patron Barry Smith also performs with Chris Hardy (poet and guitarist), with further music provided by composer and pianist Paul G Terry. The SMP will reveal the winners of its annual poetry competition during the evening, with prizes presented by Roger, and will be performed for the first time. Tickets £18 (concessions £12) from eventbrite.co.uk

Ashington-based author Tracy Fells launches her debut short story collection, The Naming of Moths, on 10 November. The title story was a Regional winner in the 2017 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, and Tracy is also a two-time winner of the Steyning Festival Short Story Prize. Some of the stories are set in the Sussex countryside, while Ancient Wing includes the original Worthing birdman competition. The Naming of Moths is published by Fly On The Wall Press and will be available from Amazon, Waterstones and Steyning Bookshop. tracyfells.com

Horsham Artists holds its Contemporary Art Fair at Parkside (the Horsham District Council offices) in Chart Way, Horsham, on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 October, 10am - 5pm (closes 4pm Sunday). An invitation-only preview is held on Friday 13 October. This creative annual event brings together artists and makers under one roof to exhibit and sell their work over one weekend.

This will be the group’s biggest fair yet, with 44 artists selling watercolours, portraits, landscapes, abstract art, jewellery, fabrics, sculpture, ceramics and glass and textile art. A number of new artists have joined the group this year and are exhibiting for the first time, alongside several guest artists. Parking is accessible via Madeira Avenue. horshamartists.org

Art by Jo Willis

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Metricell was among the local businesses taking part in the Tough Mudder at Holmbush, with a strong contingent braving the 10K course. The Horsham-based company, which specialises in network intelligence solutions, organises an array of fundraising activities throughout the year, with the Tough Mudder team so far raising £1,874 for Horsham Matters, Chestnut Tree House and ABC Animal Sanctuary. Metricell Ltd has a fundraising page at gofundme.com

Ben Summerhayes is taking part in the Muddy Dog Challenge at Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells on Saturday 21 October. The event sees participants take on a 2.5K or 5K obstacle course, with many accompanied by a pet dog and raising funds for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. Ever since a car accident in 2015, Ben has suffered with brain and nerve injuries, which affect his communication and movement. His own dog, Ronnie, who is no longer with us, played an important part in his recovery. To sponsor Ben, search ‘Ben Summerhayes Muddy 2023’ at justgiving.com

Tough Mudder came to the Holmbush Estate on 23 – 24 September. The sold-out London South Tough Mudder attracted over 14,000 participants, including footballer Theo Walcott. Participants could choose from a 5K, 10K and 15K course, with obstacles including Electroshock Therapy, Arctic Enema and the Block Ness Monster, with teamwork and determination required in equal measure. A Lidl Mudder Adventure was also staged for children. The 2024 event will be held on 21 – 22 September. To register, visit toughmudder.co.uk/events/london-south/

AAH editor Ben takes on the 10K (©Tough Mudder)

©Tough Mudder Metricell team

West Chiltington

Silver Band presents an Autumn Brass Concert at West Chiltington Village Hall, Mill Road, RH20

2PZ, on Saturday

28 October, 7.30pm (doors open 7pm). The first half of the concert will feature works with an autumnal theme, with the second half embracing Oktoberfest. Audience participation is encouraged, with Lederhosen and Dirndl optional. Refreshments available. Tickets £10 (U16s free) from Julie at simplythebest21@btinternet.com or Richard at rabarron@btinternet.com and also from Nisa Local, West Chiltington.

Christ’s Hospital Choral Society will perform Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle at St Mary’s Church, Horsham, on Saturday 11 November

7.30pm. Rossini is best known for his operas, including William Tell and The Barber of Seville, but late in his career wrote Petite Messe Solennelle (Little Solemn Mass). It was written for four soloists plus another eight singers, two pianos and a harmonium. An orchestral version followed later, with an additional aria for soprano. For tickets, call (01403) 247434 or visit chchoralsoc.org

Slipped Discs at 58a High Street, Steyning, is getting involved in a special event organised by Record Store Day, on Friday 24 November, 9am – 5pm. Record Store Day (RSD) began in the USA in 2007, with record shops hosting live events and lables releasing new material to promote and

celebrate independent record stores. The event has since spread around the world and now in addition to Record Store Day in April, there’s a second event held to mark Black Friday. slipped-discs-steyning.myshopify.com

Here are some of the latest volunteering opportunities available in the Horsham District. St. Catherine’s Hospice need help on Mondays and Fridays in their charity shop in Horsham. Sussex Green Living are looking for volunteers to manage bookings for their repair café, while Horsham District Older People’s Forum needs a new chair. For details, call (01403) 215191, email volunteering@horshamdistrict.gov.uk or visit volunteerhorshamdistrict.co.uk

INTENT91 opened a gym at Brook Farm, Horsham Road, Cowfold, on 2 September. The gym uses a small group personal training model, offering expert coaching within a positive and friendly environment. This is the third INTENT91 gym in Sussex, following the success of its branches in Brighton and Worthing. Cllr David Skipp, Chair of Horsham District Council, cut the ribbon at the official opening. intent91.co.uk

Trenchmore Farm in Burnt House Lane, Cowfold, RH13 8DG, hosts an autumn food and drink market on Saturday 14 October, 11am - 4pm. There will be 15 local food and drink producers, as well as hot food traders and Silly Moo Cider serving local tipples. Farmer Andrew Knowles leads tours around the farm and there will be live music and a DJ set. Families and dogs welcome. Entry free. Bring garden apples and swap them for cider. trenchmore.co.uk

Flight Centre reopened its store on West Street, Horsham, in September. The Flight Centre is a one-stop-shop for travel advice and holiday bookings, and reflects the company’s postpandemic bounce back. Rachel Mason-Smith, Store Manager, said: ‘We will start with a small team of travel experts, but aim to expand as we ramp up!’ In celebration, Flight Centre teamed up with V2 Radio to offer listeners a chance to win a £2,000 voucher. flightcentre.co.uk

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FOLLOW

FOLLOW THE NEW TEAM TAKES OVER HISTORIC HORSHAM PUB

The Bear in Market Square, Horsham, has reopened with a new team and a fresh direction.

Owners Red Oak Taverns, which acquired The Bear from Hall & Woodhouse two years ago, had been seeking new tenants since the pub closed suddenly in February 2023, with the former management team blaming rising rents and higher beer prices.

The pub re-opened on 7 September after an internal makeover. The new team includes businessman Ben Hewson (whose other roles include being Chair of Horsham District

Crime Reduction Partnership), Lewis Sage (Director of Piron Recycling) and Ross Stephenson, who will manage the pub, owing to his vast experience in trade, having worked in bars and pubs including The Abinger Hatch near Leigh Hill.

Ben said: ‘We gave a lot of thought as to what kind of pub we want The Bear to be. Our aim was to create a place where we would feel welcome and comfortable ourselves, and to offer something a little different to other pubs in town. We may not be able to quite compete with The Black Jug’s selection of whisky, Piries Bar’s gin range or the

The Bear in Market Square, Horsham (©Alan Wright)

BEAR

number of craft beers at The Anchor Tap, but we can offer a good range of all three in an atmosphere that’s conducive to good conversation.’

‘It is much quieter than the pub people might have known before. We’ve taken down the loud decorations, like the Union Jack on the ceiling, stripped back the black paint and used more appealing tones. We have brought in some cosy seating and cushions, and also brought out the warmth of the beautiful wood panels.’

The Bear was also known for hosting DJs and live bands, but the new team are looking to take the pub in another direction, appealing to a clientele that complements the surrounding businesses, restaurants and pubs in Market Square.

Lewis said: ‘Without judging anything The Bear has been in the past, we want to try something else. There have been times when it has appealed to a younger crowd, with cheaper beers and music.

That’s fine, but not something we’re looking to replicate. People who have lived in the town a long time remember when it was a great pub and a focal point of the local

Renovated 16th Century Barn

New

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.

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!

www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk

Someone stops to take a photo of the bear every few minutes.

House Farm Shop

community. We want to bring back those days. So, we have altered the drinks menu to include a global selection of beers including craft ales, as well as premium spirits and cocktails. We have also collaborated with The Horsham Cellar to produce a fantastic wine menu that we hope will appeal to a broader clientele.’

ICONIC BEAR

The Bear re-opened quietly and endured quite a challenging first weekend! A global outage at payment platform Square meant the bar couldn’t take payments on opening night, before a fire alarm at an adjacent building virtually cleared the pub the following evening. However, despite a few teething problems, the new-look pub has been well received by customers, many of whom had never been to The Bear before.

There are some things that haven’t changed. The mural by local artist Lindsay Wright, remains a feature of the rear garden wall. And of

course, still sitting proudly over the front door is the iconic bear sculpture.

Lewis said: ‘The bear has been a fixture above the door for decades, and it’s still in good condition, having been restored by Hall and Woodhouse five years ago. On a busy Saturday, somebody stops to take a photo every few minutes, and children especially seem to love it! The bear is the same and isn’t going anywhere, but in terms of the atmosphere, it feels like an entirely new pub.’

WORDS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information: The Bear, 17 Market Square

Ross Stephenson (©Alan Wright)

Ben Hewson (©Alan Wright)

Cocktail selection at The Bear (©Alan Wright)

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WINDOWS

HIDE AWAY

CABIN AT HEATH FARM OFFERS A SECLUDED RETREAT

Kate and Duncan Heath have built a beautiful timber-framed cabin in an isolated location at Heath Flower Farm, Ashington. The luxury, eco-framed cabin, called Hazel Hide, is proving popular with guests looking for a rural escape. AAH met the couple to find out more about their quirky venture…

Where did the idea come from?

Kate: I was left some money when my grandparents passed away and we decided to use it, along with savings, to do something exciting, perhaps even creating a different way of life for our young family. We found seven acres of land for sale near Ashington and had the idea of planting a vineyard. We even spoke to a consultant who said that the growing conditions were ideal, and visited Coolhurst Vineyards, who gave us some useful advice. However, the costs involved were too great and we also knew we would have to wait several years until our wine would be ready to sell. So, we looked at other options instead.

Why go down the glamping route?

Duncan: In recent years, the glamping scene has exploded. During Covid, people started looking for places to stay in the UK, particular in the countryside, and many sought a novelty factor. There is now an abundance of locations where you can stay in shepherd huts or yurts, and sections of the glamping market have

become quite saturated. We wanted to offer an alternative. When we got engaged, we stayed in a place in Devon which was very peaceful and had no distractions like television. It was a fantastic experience and that inspired us when it came to designing Hazel Hide.

Why go for a triangular shape?

Duncan: We tend to associate A-frame buildings with alpine lodges, but the concept has been around for centuries and was used by ancient civilisations. Although geometrical, triangles are abundant in nature too – in everything from beehives to spider webs – and people are drawn to them. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in triangular buildings, especially in America, with concepts that combine the cosy aura of a log cabin with aspects of New England-style colonial architecture. We wanted to capture some of

that essence by building something that was rustic yet contemporary. There’s a wonderful book called Cabin Porn that provided us with plenty of ideas!

Was it hard to obtain planning permission?

Duncan: Our initial idea was for something more akin to a wooden tent, with a space you could crawl through to access the sleeping area. However, as the site doesn’t overlook other properties and the cabin is barely visible from the lane, we submitted a planning application for a larger design and it was approved with little fuss. We have permission to build three cabins, but ran out of money after the first one! It is called The Hazel Hide, both because there are hazel trees around it and it’s the name of our youngest daughter.

Were you surprised by the costs involved?

Kate: In recent years, the price of materials has increased dramatically and that impacted our budget. We could have gone down the pre-fabrication route, but we wanted to do things our way and designed the cabin ourselves. Having never done anything like this before, there were things we didn’t know. For example, we couldn’t find 7m long timber in the UK and had to source them from Germany instead, at considerable expense! Finding contractors was challenging too, due to the high demand for builders and tradespeople

Duncan and Kate Heath at Hazel Hide (©AAH/Alan Wright)

since Covid. We began work in March 2022 and hoped to finish the cabin in three months, but it took a year! After committing to a bespoke design, we had to make sure the interior décor and accessories were of an equally high quality. So, we didn’t skimp on lighting or comfortable bedding, as we want our guests to enjoy every aspect of the experience.

Does the cabin have water and electricity?

Our flowers attract bees, butterflies and other insects.

Duncan: There is an eco-element to Hazel Hide and sustainability is important. There’s a highly-efficient wood-burning stove to heat the cabin when needed, and solar panels generate enough power for the lights, water pump, fridge and to charge phones or torches through a USB charger. The kitchen has a gas-powered hob and oven, but there is no television, washing machine or dishwasher, and appliances like hairdryers would quickly drain the battery. As for water treatment, we’re fortunate in that there’s a waste pipe running alongside the field

and we’ve been able to connect the site to that, which is preferable to having a septic tank. We have mains water for drinking and washing, and a pump ensures shower pressure is good.

Who are your target customers?

Kate: We want to appeal to lots of people. There is a double bedroom upstairs, as well as a back bedroom, which is set up as a twin room, but they can be easily linked to make a king-sized bed. So, we can be flexible and welcome families, as well as groups of friends or couples. We have bi-fold doors that open up to a spacious decking, so guests can sit outside on a nice evening and enjoy views of the sun setting over the trees. Sometimes, deer visit the meadow and we’ve tried to encourage wildlife by planting trees, hedges and a flower garden to attract bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. There are lovely walks around us too, with The White Lion in Thakeham and The Red Lion in Ashington both serving great food.

Kate Heath tends to the flowers at Heath Farm (©AAH/AW)

What is it about the cabin that attracts people?

Duncan: The remoteness is a factor. People like the solitude and appreciate having an entire field to themselves to play frisbee or football. We have guests from London, but some come from the surrounding area, as they can experience something very different that is still close to home. I have a theory that people actually want to get away from their everyday lives, without distractions such as television. It’s strange, because when you look online for somewhere to stay, you often look for things like television and high-speed Wi-Fi, even though you could actually do without them! One couple that stayed at the cabin said they didn’t know what to do on their first night, so ended up grabbing a book off the shelf! A family ended up playing board games all night and had the best time, as it was something they rarely did together. When we come to build the two additional cabins, we’ll need to be careful as we know isolation is part of the charm of Hazel Hide. However, we have positioned them in a way that ensures they don’t intrude on one another and all benefit from good views, so hopefully we can retain the magic of Heath Flower Farm.

INTERVIEWS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information:

The Hazel Hide can be booked via https://airbnb.com/h/thehazelhide

Duncan Heath relaxes inside the cabin (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Steps lead to the top bedroom

Hazel Hide (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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CREATURE COMFORTS

ABC ANIMAL SANCTUARY CONTINUES LEGACY OF ITS FAMOUS FOUNDER

ABC Animal Sanctuary held its summer Open Weekend on 2 – 3 September.

The West Chiltington-based charity cares for a wide range of animals including pigs, goats, cats, birds and horses. The Open Weekend gave visitors a chance to groom Shetland ponies Buddy and Raffles, and revel in the mischievous antics of Paddy, one of three Boer goats. For the trustees and volunteers, it also provided an opportunity to recieve donations that could help pay for food and shelter for the animals.

Cheryl Tofield-Cook, Trustee, said: ‘We have all kinds of animals, ranging from ducks and chickens to horses and pigs. Some have come

to us as they’ve been mistreated elsewhere, but more often than not it’s the case that people are unable to care for them, perhaps because of health problems or a change in their personal circumstances.’

‘We try to rehome them where possible. Others become permanent residents here, such as Bluebell, one of our horses, who couldn’t do the work that her previous owner required of her, and our cheeky donkeys Starsky and Hutch, who proved too boisterous for their last owner. Puck was one of three pigs who came to us when his owner moved to New Zealand, and has become a permanent resident. He is a friendly boy and enjoys a belly rub from the volunteers. We also have a

cattery and there are several animals there in need of a loving new home.’

‘All the animals are cared for by a wonderful team. We have more than 75 volunteers, with some able to commit a few hours a month while others are here most days, feeding animals, mucking out, carrying out essential maintenance and repairs, or taking on administrative roles. They’re all important as we have no corporate funding. We are also grateful for the support of local companies such as Metricell, who named us as one of their charities for the year. Anyone who makes a donation ensures we can continue to run the sanctuary.’

Starsky and Hutch (©AAH/AW)

ABC Animal Sanctuary trustees (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The Cattery at ABC (©AAH/AW)

Shetland ponies (©AAH/AW)

Cheryl Tofield-Cook with one of the Boer goats at ABC Animal Sanctuary (©AAH/Alan Wright)

CHAMPION’S LEGACY

The ABC Animal Sanctuary takes its name from the late Alexandra Bastedo and is located in the grounds of her former home. Alex was best known for her role as secret agent Sharron Macready in The Champions, which aired from 1968 – 69 She was also president of a local branch of the RSPCA before focusing all her efforts on the ABC Animal Sanctuary, sometimes asking famous friends from the world of showbiz to help promote its fundraising events. Alexandra lost her battle with cancer in 2014, but ensured the sanctuary would continue. Although it was her drive that kept it going for so long, others have since been equally devoted to the animals and now, ten years on, ABC is as healthy as ever.

Cheryl said: ‘Alex devoted her life to animals and left money to the sanctuary in her will, as this was her legacy. That helped secure its immediate future. However, with costs for food, supplies and medical bills rising, it is not enough to run the sanctuary indefinitely. We get through about 40 bales of hay a week and there are always bills to pay. So, we need the additional support of fundraisers, donations, merchandise and sponsoring schemes.’

‘We all miss Alex greatly, but I know she’d be delighted to see the sanctuary today. We have a strong board of five Trustees, as well as a team of fantastic volunteers. This year, we’ve invested in several projects, most notably our new aviary. Previously, we had a bird enclosure covered with netting which often required

repairs, especially after a storm. This year, due to bird flu restrictions, we built a new facility. We have several ducks and chickens, as well as Boris the cockerel, who came to us as he was disturbing the neighbours at his old home, and they’re delighted with their new home. I’m happy to report that the sanctuary remains a happy and healthy place for all!’

WORDS: BEN MORRIS

PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information:

ABC Animal Sanctuary is looking for new volunteers. For details, see the advert on page 51 of this magazine, or visit abcanimalsanctuary.co.uk

Puck with volunteer Dani Perelli (©AAH/AW)

Gemma Page with Chocolate, one of ABC’s donkeys (©AAH/AW)

CENTRE STAGE

JOHN PARTRIDGE SET FOR VILLANOUS PANTOMIME ROLE

John Partridge may be best-known for his role in EastEnders, but he has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the theatre, starring in some of the world’s biggest musicals. He has a lifelong passion for pantomime too and this Christmas plays the villain in the Capitol’s production of Beauty and the Beast. John spoke to AAH about Cats and Cleopatra, magic and morals…

BALLET ROOTS

I joined the Royal Ballet School aged nine, and was only 16 when I joined the cast of a West End musical. Gillian Lynne, a renowned choreographer, saw me performing and invited me to audition for Cats. Through this, people realised I could sing as well as dance, which led to parts in other musicals including Starlight Express, The Hunting of the Snark, Grease, The Who’s Tommy, Miss Saigon, Chicago, A Chorus Line, Taboo and Evita. I am currently on tour with Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, playing Hugo and Loco Chanelle, his drag queen persona. The tour pauses for panto season, resuming in the New Year. I have also performed in many plays, commercials and TV programmes, including EastEnders, which is probably what I’m best known for.

ON QUEEN CLEOPATRA

Recently, I appeared in the big budget Netflix series Queen Cleopatra, playing Julius Caesar. The series was produced and narrated by Jada Pinkett Smith and repositions Cleopatra as a black African queen. The series was shot in Ouarzazate in Morocco, a renowned studio location. It was largely constructed for Ridley Scott’s epic Kingdom of Heaven, and many films and TV shows have since been filmed there, including Game of Thrones. Being part of such a vast production was both daunting and exciting; Queen Cleopatra was the fourth most watched series on Netflix around the world in the week of its release!

PRIDE IN EASTENDERS

I played Christian Clarke, brother of Jade Beale and Ian’s brother-in-law, for four years from 2008, returning for occasional appearances for a further four years. I had an important storyline, as my character was involved in a relationship with Syed Masood (played by Marc Elliott), who was gay and Muslim. The beautiful thing about the story was that – regardless of sexuality and religion – it centred on two people in love in impossible circumstances. It’s difficult to tell such stories without offending someone, but I’m

John Partridge played Christian Clarke in EastEnders

very proud of the fact that we didn’t experience any negativity. People ask me if I think the story helped change society or opened a door for others going through similar situations. There was a time when I thought it did make a difference, but now, I feel society is slightly veering to the right and that hard-won freedoms for the LGBTQI+ community are being eroded. It’s important for actors like myself, who are gay and have a degree of a public profile, to stand up for those freedoms.

RESPECT THE GENRE

Pantomime is an art form that deserves respect. Some people think of it as shaky sets and lazy double entendres; but when done well, a panto has the professionalism of a West End show. They have stunning sets with special effects, wonderful costumes and props, with talented performers singing with support from a live orchestra. They’re fun, although pantomime is a serious business. As an actor, it requires a huge amount of focus, discipline and hard work. Christmas is a time when people often get ill, so you have to take care of yourself to ensure you stay fit and healthy during the entire run. In a West End show, you might do eight shows a week, but in panto season, you’re probably doing a dozen shows a week and need to approach it like an athlete. They’re a marathon and you have to get through it.

FAMILY TRADITIONS

At a young age, I followed my sister into the cast of the United Reformed Church’s annual pantomime in Radcliffe, Lancashire, where I grew up. Panto was my introduction to theatre and that remains the case for many people. For all the silliness, panto is about storytelling; the battle between good and evil, right versus wrong. It teaches life lessons to young audiences. As someone who trained as a ballet

dancer, I find it interesting how many classic fairy tales – Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty – are perfect for two totally different kinds of production. It is because they’re entrenched in the fairy tale tradition, with magic and morals. Of course, you have to entertain parents too without upsetting the kids, which is how some of the more topical aspects of panto have evolved. There’s a fine line, but part of the job of the writers and performers is to know where that line is.

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John recently appeared as Julius Caesar in Queen Cleopatra

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IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION

Beauty and the Beast is produced in-house by the team at the Capitol Theatre and Horsham District Council, which is fantastic. In today’s political landscape, very few provincial theatres are producing their own high-quality productions. I’m really looking forward to it, especially as I’ll be working alongside Matthew Effemey, Head of Production on Beauty and the Beast. His father Philip was my Company Manager when I started working in the West End as a teenager! I have visited Horsham town centre already to preview the panto during the Coronation weekend. To a boy from Radcliffe, it seemed very posh! However, we are in a cost-of-living crisis, so I hope people can still afford to come along. Pantomimes are important, as they generate money for regional theatres, helping them to survive the more challenging times. I would urge people to support the Capitol if they can, as the arts are vital to our communities.

SPRING A SURPRISE

I am playing the villain in Beauty and the Beast. My character is Captain Gastoff, so I can guess at a couple of gags already! It is fun playing a villain, as I don’t need to win anyone over and in fact go to great lengths not too.

It’s a role I can have fun with. People are often surprised when they watch me perform. They may know me as the guy off Eastenders, saying, ‘Oh, I’ll have a gin and tonic, please Peggy!’ or as the winner of Celebrity Masterchef, which led to me writing a cookbook. They don’t really know who I am as a performer, so are shocked when they hear me sing. I love the fact that, even in my 50s, I still have a secret and can surprise people. Despite everything else I’ve done, I’m a song and dance man first and foremost. Being on stage is what I love and this production will be no different.

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INTERVIEW: Ben Morris

Further information: John Partridge appears in Beauty and the Beast at The Capitol from 1 – 31 December.

Tickets cost from £20, from the Box Office on (01403) 750220 or thecapitolhorsham.com

John was at the heart of a challenging storyline in EastEnders

I love the fact that even in my 50s, I can still surprise people.

COLLYER’S

COLLYER’S

A-TEAM MAKE THE GRADE

Students at Collyer’s, one of the leading sixth form colleges in the country, have achieved 61% high grades (A*-B) at A-level.

Strong individual A*-B subject results include Further Maths (97%), Electronics (83%), Computer Science (83%), Textiles (80%), Maths (77%); Politics (74%), EPQ (73%), Physics (73%), Law (72%), Media (69%); Chemistry (69%), Geology (67%), Fine Art (67%), Psychology (66%), and Photography (62%). The overall A-level pass rate is 99.5%.

Collyer’s Principal Dan Lodge said: ‘I am incredibly proud of the achievement of all our students at Collyer’s this summer, particularly as this was the first time most had taken public exams. We are all delighted to see this cohort rewarded for their hard work and resilience with an amazing 61% A*-B and 31% A*-A grades at A-level and with strong performance across our vocational and technical courses as well.’

Collyer’s Chair of Governors, Graham Lawrence, added: ‘Huge congratulations and the best of luck to all our students as they embark on their exciting journeys! Thanks also to our wonderful staff for guiding and supporting our students so professionally.’

DREAM TEAM ON TOUR

Collyer’s Student Ambassadors, nicknamed the ‘Dream Team’, are visiting schools and colleges across the region this autumn, to help Year 11 pupils make informed choices about their futures and what Collyer’s can offer them in 2024. The students, who joined the college from schools all over the southeast, study programmes across the broad range of subjects offered at Collyer’s.

Much of the early focus of the Ambassadors has been visiting schools’ Post 16 Advice and Guidance Evenings. The work builds towards the Collyer’s Open Evenings, which take place on Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 November.

Ellie West Wilson, who has presented at assemblies and supported post 16 evenings, said: ‘We’ve really enjoyed our time at Collyer’s and feel that young people in the area thinking about where to go after leaving school deserve the chance to find out more about the sixth form college route.’

Jade Vohra added: ‘Being an Ambassador is an important responsibility and a fantastic chance to inspire young people to look forward to their education at our college.’

GREEN WEEK 2023

Numerous events were held at Collyer’s to support Green Week 2023.

Dominic Robeson from Biffa met with Collyer’s staff Ian Carr, Stuart Emery and Kirstie Mitchell to donate bee attracting seeds to be sown in Collyer’s wildflower meadow. Dominic, who also helped set up the meadow last summer, even donated a bee hotel!

Dr Ian Carr, Collyer’s Assistant Director of Faculty for Science, Head of Geology and Sustainability Co-ordinator, explained: ‘A number of initiatives and activities at Collyer’s and other local colleges have supported Green Week. It is wonderful to see that many of the projects are long term and sustainable.’

CHALLENGE OF MANAGEMENT AT SOUTH LODGE HOTEL

Collyer’s students got a taste of the real world of business at the Challenge of Management 2023, run by the college at the 5-star South Lodge Hotel!

Expert business representatives and guest speakers supporting the event included: Toby Cotton (Kreston Reeves), Paul Cleary (Caribtours), Andrew Di Sora (South Lodge, an Executive Hotel); Amy Green (Specialist Risk Group and President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Sussex), James Hoad (Navigators and General), Mike Humphries (Young Enterprise), Johnny Huntingdon (GB Para Nordic Skier and adventurer), Demetria O’Sullivan (The Illustrant Partnership), Maisie Poland

Principal Dan Lodge celebrates A-level results with Collyer’s students

A wildflower meadow attracts pollinators Challenge of Management

(Schroders), Kim Senior (Assurity Consulting); Smita Warren (RSA); Jason McBride and Guy Watts (both Architectural Plants) and Tim Wrenn (Environment Agency).

Throughout the day, attention was drawn to the learning opportunities that the tasks provided and Q&As about the routes available after college including apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships and sponsored degrees. Deputy Principal Steve Martell interviewed inspirational special guests including Amy Green, Jonny Huntingdon, former Collyer’s students Ashna Hurynag (award winning Sky News broadcaster and former Collyer’s student, pictured right with Steve Martell), Guy Watts (Guinness World Record Rower) and Tim Wrenn (Degree Apprentice from the Environment Agency).

ART AND DESIGN EXHIBITION

Level 3 BTEC Art and Design students curated a sensational display from work created over the past two years, to celebrate their time at Collyer’s. The students’ work included architecture, animation, illustration, concept art, fashion photography, fine art and more.

Sharon Porter, Head of BTEC Art & Design at Collyer’s, said: ‘The students have been so enthused by the show and professional throughout. Not only have they curated their own spaces to an exceptionally high standard, but they have also developed marketing campaigns for the show ‘Final Cut’ and spent hours on their personal branding.’

‘It was a joy to see these artists taking such professional pride in their work.’

Moya Rivera-Aldridge, who took part in the exhibition, said: ‘Seeing everyone’s work come together in such a professional way was an exciting and inspiring experience. It was amazing to be able to share the progress we’ve made with a public audience. I feel so excited for my future!’

OPEN EVENINGS

Our November Open Evenings take place on Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 November 2023. If you are interested in finding out more, you can read the ‘Choosing your programme’ section of the 2024 Prospectus (available online). For more information visit: www.collyers.ac.uk

The Student Ambassadors

BTEC Art and Design exhibition at Collyer’s

LOCAL HERO

CRATES LOCAL IN HORSHAM CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

Crates Local in Horsham’s Carfax marked its 10th anniversary last month. Here, owner Lisa Charles describes how the business has adapted and evolved to meet the demands of customers…

COMMUNITY LIFELINE

I took over Crates Local on 1 August 2020, when lockdown restrictions were still in place. At the time, Crates were offering a takeaway service due to social distancing, and many people were working from home. It was an interesting time, as people were turning to farm shops for essential supplies. Everyone wanted baking ingredients and supermarkets couldn’t meet demand for

items like flour and eggs, so customers used farm shops instead, as local supply chains hadn’t been as badly affected and were largely operating normally.

Many people came to rely on farm shops for groceries and they became lifelines for the community. We were there when people needed us most, and consequently we have very loyal customers who first discovered Crates during Covid. Some have become good friends of ours and one even handed me a painting of the town when I took over! Crates has a family feel and the team are an important part of that, and some of them have worked here from the outset.

Coming from a corporate background, I had my own ideas that I wanted to implement when I took over. However, I didn’t want to lose the thing that makes Crates unique, which is selling local produce and using it for the food on our menu too. That has been at the heart of the business since it was founded by PJ Aldred and Marion Carter in 2013. When customers tell us that they love the cheese in the toasties, we can say that it comes from a farm in Rudgwick and can be bought in the shop. If they enjoy the coffee, we tell them it’s made using beans from Horsham Coffee Roaster. We have about 70 local suppliers, so as well as having a low carbon footprint, we are investing in our local community, as are customers who visit the café or shop.

Crates offers the best local produce (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Horsham Serpent Gin (©AAH/Toby Phillips) Nonya Secrets (©AAH/Alan Wright) Kukuya nut butters (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Lisa, Mary, Megan and Toni at Crates Local, Horsham Carfax (©AAH/Alan Wright)

LOCAL PRODUCERS

We are fortunate to have some incredible producers, nurseries and artisans in the Horsham District. They supply us with bread, fruit and vegetables, dairy products, eggs, preserves, chocolate, oil, tea, coffee, meats and much more, with some of our well-known suppliers being Weald Smokery, Nutbourne Tomatoes, Cocoa Loco and SK Hutchins. We have lost some over the years, including Bartie’s Sussex Faire, who retired, leading to some customers stocking up on jams, pickles and chutneys! But we’ve also seen a boom in start-ups and now work with fantastic new companies such as Kukuya Kitchen, who make superb nut butters, as well as local charities and CIOs like Auntie Val’s and JubyLee Bakes.

Crates also sells wines and spirits made by local producers. We are blessed to have some excellent vineyards in this area and stock wines by the likes of Nutbourne Vineyards and the Bolney Estate. We also have a vast range of gins – including Horsham Serpent Gin, created by Horsham company Cabin Pressure Spirits in collaboration with Crates Local – and also rums and artisan brandies by Spirit of the Downs. We are hosting a gin tasting evening with Cabin Pressure in November and, if successful, will explore other themed events.

EXPANDING MENU

During Covid, the Council permitted us to have additional seating outside. This proved popular, especially on bustling market days or when the Bandstand hosted live music. This has helped us to expand the menu too. We used to offer only a small range of snacks and toasties, but now we serve a wider range of breakfast options and hot food dinners, all made using local produce. This includes fresh quiche, pasta, chilli, salad bowls and tacos. We also have gluten and dairyfree, vegan and vegetarian options, with everything made fresh to order. As we’re dog-friendly, we have a great d oggy menu too!

We plan on serving

bistro-style food on some evenings.

The biggest change I have made in my three years here is switching the coffee shop dining space and the farm shop around. The shop used to look out to the Bandstand, whereas the cafe entrance was round the corner, opposite The Red Deer. We needed a bigger commercial kitchen to expand our menu and improve our toilet facilities, so took the opportunity to change things around. We were lucky in that the rustic crate shelves fit perfectly into the old dining area, so there was no need to cut produce from the shop. The dining area now has more seats but still has a cosy atmosphere. Customers prefer looking out onto the Carfax too, as it’s a lovely spot to sit and watch people from!

Crates Cafe looks out to the Carfax

(©AAH/Alan Wright)

FUTURE HOPES

Because of our location on the corner of the Carfax, we have had some fantastic support from the business community. We see lots of faces from RSA, Creative Assembly and the Council offices at Parkside. As we have forged links with local firms, we have grown the hampers and gifts side of the business. We’re in a unique position as we work solely with local

Soon, we plan to open on certain evenings, serving a bistro-style menu using local produce. We’re fully-licensed, so we can expand on our gin evenings to also offer some of the wonderful wines made at Sussex vineyards too. Although we are in a cost-ofliving crisis, Horsham remains a thriving town and the restaurants and eateries are always busy at weekends, as people want to support local businesses, especially independents. So,

Further down the line, I would love to open a second branch of Crates. However, it would need to be in a town equally as blessed with local producers as we are in Horsham.

WORDS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information:

Crates Local at 24a Carfax is open Monday –Friday, 8am – 5pm

Lisa Charles, Crates owner (©AAH/AW)

Nutbourne Vineyards (©AAH/AW)

The shop side of Crates Local (©AAH/AW)

FLYING HIGH

FOOTBALL

Women’s football has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years, with many girls inspired by the success of the Lionesses.

Horsham Sparrows has long been a supporter of the women’s game, providing opportunities for girls as young as four through Wildcats sessions and running youth teams at every age group, from U7 to U18. Some progress to the Horsham Sparrows Women’s team, recently promoted to the Premier Division of the Sussex County Women & Girls’ League.

AAH attended a training session in Horsham Park and spoke to captain Emma Flood, vice-captain Alice Partridge, goalkeeper Maddie Sweet and striker Amy MacDonald about their hopes for the season…

Emma: Last season was fantastic as we finished runners-up in Division 1. This meant we were promoted to the Premier Division, which is more chal lenging! We have played four matches so far this season, and even though we

haven’t picked up our first point yet, we’re still optimistic. We have faced tough opponents and only narrowly lost three of the games, so we know the results will come. Team spirit is high after last season, so we need to maintain that

We have a mix of ages and characters at the club. There are students at college or university, with some only able to play during the holidays, as well as women in their thirties with full-time jobs and children. We all get along really well and even organise social events, including quiz and bowling nights. I run a farm in Pulborough and I’m hoping to organise a Tough Mudder-style obstacle course for the girls to tackle!

Alice: As a club, Sparrows does a huge amount for girls’ and women’s football. When I was young, some girls would play in boys’ teams for as long as they could,

HIGH

but they usually had to stop by the age of 10 or 11, and girls’ teams were few and far between. Now, they can progress through every age group, from Wildcats to U7s, all the way up to U18s. It is great to see so many girls training in the park, with a pathway all the way to the women’s team for those who want to continue playing.

Emma: Having the new U18s team makes a big difference. It’s a huge leap from U16s to the women’s team, at least in terms of physicality; it can be a baptism of fire for girls who are used to youth football to suddenly find themselves up against tough, experienced opponents who like to wind up their opponent! So, having the U18s makes that progression a little easier.

Maddie: At 16, I’m one of the younger players. I joined Sparrows when I was nine, although I already played football at school. From a young age, I never showed any fear, so naturally became a goalkeeper! Last year, I played for Crawley Acorns, as Sparrows only formed an U18s team this season. But I’m pleased to be back, competing for a place in the team. I also help coach the Wildcats, as I love the ethos of Sparrows.

Emma: Sparrows is a club that welcomes everyone. I loved football as a girl and played for clubs including QPR and Fulham, before suffering an ACL injury. After recovering, I joined Sparrows and have been at the club for five or six seasons now. However, we also have players who had literally never kicked a ball before coming here. Nobody is ever turned away and that makes the club special.

Amy: I was one of those players. The first time I kicked a ball was when I came along for a training session aged 22. I played netball at school, but after my doctor suggested I join a club to stay active, I thought I’d try football. I was a total novice! For a while, I dreaded the passing drills before each game. In a match, I could run around, exert energy and contribute through hard work, but in the drills, I couldn’t hide my lack of technical ability. However, I improved steadily

and after having a baby, returned to action and was top scorer! Our manager, Keith Miller, is fantastic and always coaches with enthusiasm and encouragement.

Emma: We have seen a dramatic growth in terms of the popularity of women’s football. Sparrows promotes inclusivity and welcomes everyone, whether they have played the game all their life or are perhaps rekindling a love they had for the game as a child. We don’t turn people away, although there are limits as to how many players we can register for league matches. We have several players who just enjoy the camaraderie of training and being part of a team, without playing competitively. However, we would like to establish a development team too, so we can offer game time to more players. That will also help those progressing from the U16s and U18s into women’s football.

Alice: As well as playing, I coach one of the youth teams, as my daughter is a Sparrows player too. After England won the European Championships in 2022, we saw a surge in the number of girls wanting to join, to the extent that there are now two girls’ teams in some age groups, which is brilliant. Some of the best players have had trials for Brighton and Hove Albion, or been selected for their Albion in the Community programme, so there are opportunities for girls that didn’t exist all that long ago.

Amy: The move from Division 1 to the Sussex Premier has been tough. I suspect some of the players would have been happy to stay in the lower league and keep winning! However, you have to try to challenge yourself too. I am

hoping that by playing at the higher level, we will get the chance to play in the 1st round of the FA Cup. That would be a great experience!

Alice: This year, we are in the same league as Horsham Women, a new team affiliated to Horsham FC. The team has been formed out of what was Denne Park FC, who we beat twice last season. Naturally, there is a degree of competition and it’s exciting to have a local rival, but I don’t see it as a grudge match; it’s a good thing that Horsham FC has made a commitment to the women’s game. They might have modern facilities and a new pitch, but we have great support too, with sponsorship from THS Handling and The Gym Group, who sponsor our match and training kits, respectively, and a nice pitch at Slinfold FC.

Emma: Is there a rivalry with Horsham? We certainly want to beat them, I’ll put it that way! Really, this season, our aim is to survive in a higher league and to establish ourselves as the season goes on. It’ll be a good experience, especially for the younger players, and hopefully give us something to build on next year.

WORDS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information: Email the team at ladies@horshamsparrows.co.uk horshamsparrows.co.uk

Sparrows Women training (@AAH/AW)

The team’s home and away kits (@AAH/AW)

Training in Horsham Park (@AAH/AW)

Business Owners Preparation for Busin攀s Exit

Matthew Wykes, Company Director at Matthew Wykes Financial Services, has 17+ years’ 昀nancial services experience, plus 18 years in Hotel/Hospitality sector managing £6-22m turnover. With expertise in corporate 昀nancial planning, he addresses challenges and opportunities and advises on both personal and business objectives.

Simon Ford of Zingela, is an experienced company director and has worked with large corporations and SMEs over the past 15 years to successfully grow their business, improve sales and develop their people. Zingela was born out of his experience (and frustration) with hiring different types of consulting companies. As a company director and leader, himself he felt that the business consultancy model was broken. But knowing how much objective voices and specialists could help businesses achieve their goals, he set out to change the model.

How can they help?

Matthew Wykes makes it his priority to understand the details of your business, what drives you and your longterm goals, ensuring that whatever decisions you make, continue to meet your objectives. We also discuss the level of any ongoing service you would like and agree with you at outset what you can expect and when.

Simon Ford sits at the cross-section of business advisory, coaching and non-executive directorship. He focuses on action and making things happen, he will work with you to overcome challenges, accelerate growth, increase value, and exit your business. All whilst improving your organisation’s resilience and bottom-line.

His experience lies largely in SME’s turning over more than £4m and up to £40m, trading for over 5 years. The business is usually scalable, can be improved (often by technology) and his leadership team, who are open to being challenged, are committed to driving measurable change to achieve their goals. He has case studies and testimonials from a wide range of clients over 15 years.

How can they assist the process between identifying your need to grow the business for sale and exiting/post sale

Matthew emphasized that successfully navigating the journey from identifying the need to grow a business

for eventual sale, to managing the post-sale phase, requires a strategic approach. He starts with assessing the business’s strengths and growth areas, identifying opportunities to enhance its appeal to potential buyers. Executing growth strategies, such as expanding market reach, improving ef昀ciency, or enhancing the product/ service portfolio, signi昀cantly boosts the business’s value. To prepare for sale, thorough 昀nancial documents and a compelling value proposition must be readied. Involving experts like 昀nancial and legal consultants provides crucial insights.

Post-sale, the focus shifts to ensuring a seamless transition, maintain momentum and nurturing relationships. An organised exit strategy also helps in managing taxes and sale value. Ultimately, a wellexecuted plan spanning growth to post-sale integration is key to a successful business exit.

Simon gave us his Top Tips on what business owners should consider in relation to identifying the need to grow the business for sale and exit:

• Rising sales line

• Increase pro昀ts (mitigate/minimise waste)

• Improve margins (tight cost controls)

• Prepare for Due Diligence including Corporate Governance/Finance/Legal etc.

• Succession planning

• Technology or quali昀ed technology skills that will give an acquirer a competitive advantage (or offered to their clients as replacement or addition to their own

• De昀ne who the acquirers may be (one of 5 areas usually)

• Product/service offering (what value to a prospective acquirer)

• Are your customers a natural target for their products and services?

• Highly effective market plan generating good highquality leads for a sales team who are skilled at converting.

Matthew and Simon, work together to ensure you, as a Business Owner, realise the maximum bene昀t from your business

Pre sale – what should business owners consider?

Matthew looks to review the 昀nancial planning in place and consider the following:

Key Person Cover the death or serious illness of a key director or employee can have far-reaching consequences for a business.

Business Intestacy we conduct a Business Intestacy Risk check, helping to verify that arrangements you have in place are suf昀cient or determine areas that require attention.

Lasting Powers of Attorney both personally and in your business* – In the event that you want or need help managing your affairs, a legal document known as a ‘lasting power of attorney’ (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to act on your behalf.

Will making a Will is vital in Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning and it is always vitally important that it is well written and planned correctly, along with being regularly reviewed.

Tax Ef昀cient Planning

We will take the time to review remuneration strategies with you, ensuring you are doing everything possible to take advantage of all applicable schemes, allowances and reliefs;

• Structuring remuneration packages in the most tax ef昀cient manner, utilising allowances and reliefs which include Individual Savings Accounts; Investment and Retirement Planning

Looking after your Team

• Auto Enrolment

• Surgery days to assist employees, reduce the 昀nancial burden, which can really enhance the Employer organisation in the eyes of the employees.

✓ Review LEAN/Value Chain processes, procedures etc

✓ Prepare documentation comprising 昀nancial forecast and Information Memorandum

✓ Establish the data room with all legal, 昀nancial, process, HR and records (ensuring accounting and legal entity records are accurate and current)

✓ Protect IPR

And Simon’s role to achieve the exit plan with business owners is to:

➢ Support, advisory on all the above and shape the business for sale.

➢ Research a target list of potential buyers and identify the best 昀ts.

➢ Ensure records, systems and contracts will pass due diligence checks.

➢ Manage the sales process on the owner’s behalf while they, with less distraction, ensure the business ‘makes its numbers’.

➢ Raise the pro昀le of the business to potential acquirers or investors and help achieve the price and terms the owners want.

Post sale

Matthew helps effective business exit planning involving a comprehensive lifetime strategy that optimises low tax income, investments, inheritance tax (IHT) and family considerations along with the St. James’s Place Private Client Team.

I asked Simon

what processes

he followed to get business owners to the ‘golden’ target exit price?

✓ A thorough needs and gap analysis and a ‘due diligence’ on the business that a buyer will do

✓ Agreement with the Senior Leadership Team on what must be done (time-lined) to prepare the business for sale.

✓ Preparing and updating a detailed business plan, budgets and cash 昀ow forecasts supporting the exit ambitions with the exec.

✓ Understand the ‘value drivers’ that could apply to the business which would underpin and possibly increase the value (prepare a plan to take advantage of the value drivers)

✓ Understand the attributes which could lead to a discount in value (take steps to minimise or remove the potential of these)

✓ Prepare and implement the succession plan for when to owner leaves.

✓ Prepare a checklist and action plan for the ‘housekeeping’ or ‘grooming’ issues that should be addressed before a sale assignment starts.

Matthew Wykes DipPFS Principal

SJP Approved 05/09/2023

01403 710422 | 07974 062561

matthew.wykes@sjpp.co.uk

www.matthewwykes.co.uk

Integrating tax ef昀cient vehicles like trusts and gifting strategies can help mitigate IHT impact, allowing for smoother intergenerational wealth transfer. This holistic approach not only safeguards the estate’s value but also ensures its seamless passage to future generations, enabling them to bene昀t from the fruits of the business in a tax ef昀cient manner.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief is generally dependent on individual circumstances.* The writing of a Will or Powers of Attorney involves the referral to a service that is separate and distinct from those offered by St. James’s Place. Wills and Powers of Attorney along with trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Exit Strategies may include the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place.

Matthew Wykes Financial Services is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

By strategically structuring investments and income sources, individuals can minimise their tax liability while aiming for sustainable wealth growth.

WAKE UP® LIKE A

We are how we sleep; that’s why we handcraft extraordinary beds so you can feel the most awake version of yourself each morning. Since 1852, we have followed our dream of making the world a happier, more peaceful and loving place, and our new drēmər bed designed by Ferris Rafauli embodies over 170 years of craftsmanship, excellence, and of course dreams.

Horsham Bedding Centre ❘ Central House, Medwin Walk, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1AG 01403 252500 ❘ jonesandtomlin.co.uk

STILL SPARKLING

HISTORIC WISTON OFFERS UNIQUE WINE ESTATE EXPERIENCE

Chalk Restaurant opened at the heart of the Wiston Estate last year. Under head chef Tom Kemble, the restaurant serves dishes that celebrate the heritage and purpose of the land, which has been owned and managed by the Goring family for 280 years. AAH met Richard and Kirsty Goring to talk about wine, food, South African hospitality and much more…

THE FAMILY

Before delving into the delights of Chalk, it is a good idea to talk a little about the Wiston Estate. Where is it? Who owns it? What do they do? Is there a spy base there?

Wiston is a small village nestled in the south of the district, with Steyning and Washington to the east and west, Ashington and Findon north and south. Much of the village is part of the Wiston Estate, owned and stewarded by the Goring family since 1743. Indeed, it was a teenage Charles Goring who is credited with planting the beech trees that formed Chanctonbury Ring, a hill fort of trees on the South Downs Way that sits on the parish border.

In the 19th century, the estate stretched to some 20,000 acres, but gradually parcels of land were sold, often to cover death duties.

Today, it is a 6,000-acre estate mostly comprised of arable farming and woodland. It is owned by Harry Goring and his wife Pip, and managed by their son Richard and his wife Kirsty. They all have individual passion and personalities that contribute to the estate’s running in different ways, with Harry combining his land stewardship experience with that of churchwarden of All Saints, Buncton, a small church that still hosts a weekly service.

The family has not resided in the huge, imposing 16th century grade-I listed Wiston House since 1926. Since 1951, it has been leased by Wilton Park, an executive agency of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

The other thing you may know about Wiston Estate is that they make wine. Very good wine...

Richard and Kirsty Goring at Chalk (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Wiston wines (©AAH/Alan Wright)

THE WINE

It was Pip – perhaps the visionary of the family – who first mooted the idea of planting a vineyard. Pip recalls: ‘When I arrived here from South Africa in 1972, I stood on top of the hill and looked out across the land and thought, “wouldn’t it be lovely to plant a vineyard?” ‘ I was only 21 and had no experience of viticulture, but I wanted something that reminded me of home. At the time, English winemakers were few and far between, whereas vineyards dominated the landscape in the part of South Africa where I grew up, so it was in my blood.’

Pip’s dream was only realised many years later in 2006 when Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier vines were planted on the estate. This happened to coincide with Richard and Kirsty returning from Canada, where they had spent a year travelling around small-scale organic farms, learning about sustainable, selfsufficient agriculture. It was the beginning of a new chapter for Wiston, and it wasn’t long before the estate was winning acclaim and awards, contributing to the UK’s growing international reputation as a sparkling wine producer.

Kirsty said: ‘Because of the size and variety of landscape on the estate, we had the space to experiment. Rather than committing all the land to vines, we could plant five acres of Chardonnay, for example, and monitor its progress. Across the estate, there are different soil structures, fields with different elevations and slopes, and areas that attract sunlight at certain times of the day; all these things impact growing conditions. With patience, we discovered which vines thrived in which environment.’

The courtyard at Chalk (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Wiston’s award-winning wines (©AAH/AW)

‘We found that Chardonnay worked exceptionally well on thin topsoil, as the porous chalk beds of the Downs provided a steady water source. So, we planted more vines and our Blanc de Blancs, made with 100% Chardonnay, put us on the international winemaking map. Pinot Noir thrived on land that was southwest facing, attracting the late afternoon sun. The process hasn’t been easy, and the weather ensures there will always be good years and bad, but we have given ourselves the chance to make fantastic wines and have fun doing it.’

‘We’re fortunate to have a fantastic team. Dermot Sugrue was our winemaker for many years, but we always knew he would eventually pursue his dream of running his own company (Sugrue South Downs). We were very excited for him and his wife, Anna. Now, our team is led by Marcus and Megan Rayner-Ward, who worked closely with Dermot and have maintained the same level of quality.’

THE TOUR

The biggest shift in recent years on the wine front has been a move into the still wine market. Having established itself as a leading producer of English sparkling wines, Wiston launched The Twenty-Six, a still red (Pinot Noir) from 2020’s vintage, so called as the grapes used to make it were picked from the first 26 rows of the estate’s Findon Park vineyard. This was followed by a still white, Tank Five, a blend of Chardonnay and Bacchus, and Fifty Summers, a still rosé made in celebration of Harry and Pip’s 50th wedding anniversary last year. As the wine range has grown, as has demand for tasting tours.

A new winery opened in December 2021 and tours and tastings are now held from Wednesday to Sunday, with Kirsty often leading the groups around the winery, which includes a traditional Champagne Coquard press. Extended tours including

meals and even off-road cycling excursions are available too, with some guests choosing to stay at the beautiful Pump House Cottage. Tours are now held twice daily, a reflection not only on Wiston’s success, but the growing reputation of English still and sparkling wines around the world.

Richard said: ‘When you think of the great wine regions, they are not dominated by one or two vineyards. There are many estates, large and small, and each wine has its own character and nuances. People like to visit several to get a full flavour and feel of the region. For that reason, we don’t see other vineyards as competition, as they too are contributing to Sussex becoming recognised as a winemaking region. So, we try to push tourism, supporting schemes such as Sussex Modern, which celebrates natural landscapes, art and wine. When people arrive in the UK, they typically head straight to London. We want to draw their attention to Sussex, so it’s important to collaborate with other businesses and attractions that highlight the best of the area.

Head chef Tom Kemble (©AAH/AW)

Richard and Kirsty Goring(©AAH/AW)

Kirsty tends to the floral displays (©AAH/AW)

We have hotels like South Lodge, historic gardens like Leonardslee, wildlife tours at Knepp, as well as theatres, art galleries and fantastic restaurants. By working together, we can provide visitors with a memorable experience.’

‘Another thing we also have in this part of the world is natural beauty, which we need to protect. We are friends with the Burrells at Knepp and have worked with them on Weald to Waves, a project aiming to restore natural corridors throughout Sussex. Knepp has its pioneering rewilding project, which is helping to revive the fortunes of many species of flora and fauna. Wiston is mostly comprised of managed landscapes, but we have turned over 30 hectares of farmland to create a wildflower meadow, helping to connect the chalk grasslands to the Weald and the green spaces to the north.’

THE RESTAURANT

While hosting tours, Kirsty became increasingly aware of the need to offer something more, in terms of hospitality. The obvious solution was a new eatery, where people could relax after a tour, either to enjoy a three-course meal or even just a drink with a slice of cake. So, the decision was made to transform an old flint building - which at certain times in history has been a threshing barn and a turkey farm – into a restaurant. An adjacent farm building was demolished to create a courtyard, and wild ivy was cut back to reveal the original flint walls of the building, creating a picturesque scene below the rolling greenery of the Downs.

Kirsty sourced chunks of chalk from the estate and carved out sculptural pieces for display, while Kirsty’s brother, who worked with Richard as a carpenter, designed the central bar. A variety of paintings and etchings by local artists were hung on the walls, all depicting or inspired by the landscape of the South Downs. Chalk finally opened in March 2022 and soon proved popular.

Richard said: ‘Our vision was to create a place where people could taste our produce and truly connect with the land. We have footpaths across the estate, but prior to Chalk, there hasn’t ever been a hub where we can share our values and ethos with visitors. The wine was the start of that journey and Chalk is the next step in our progression. For mum, this is the culmination of everything she ever wanted for the estate. Growing up, I remember that no matter who turned up at the house, she could magically conjure up enough food for everyone, as she simply loved entertaining. That harks back to her upbringing in South Africa, where it is normal for families, friends and neighbours to come together to share the spoils of the land and celebrate life. Mum doesn’t so much as eat to live as live to eat, and the idea of bringing people together is what life’s all about.’

Our appropriately named on-site café and bar with its thoughtfully created Breakfast and Seasonal Menus offers a selection of hot and cold options for your indulgence

Many of our cakes and sweet treats are handmade on site Locally sourced ingredients feature throughout our menus including local craft bakers’ breads and burgers from our very own beef herd

Not feeling hungry? From the bar we provide a generous choice of soft drinks, draught and bottled beers, premium spirits and a wide selection of wines all to be enjoyed overlooking our beautiful Sumners Lake. Find a comfortable spot outside on the upper or lower decking and take in the scenery or cosy up in our Safari Tent and enjoy the war mth and crackle of log-bur ning stoves

Current Opening times: Monday to Sunday 9am to 4pm Food Service: 9am to 3pm

Tel: 01403 732539

Web: sumnersponds.co.uk

Instagram: @sumnersponds

Facebook.com/SumnersPonds

Our vision was to create a place where people could connect with the land.

The Chalk restaurant team, led by head chef Tom Kemble (©AAH/AW)

Judith

Dandy

Independent Funeral Director

Dandelion Farewells warmly invites you to contact us if you have any questions about the funeral you need to arrange.

We are committed to enabling families to plan a funeral that is personal, meaningful and affordable. We will support you to create a farewell that is appropriate and unique, thereby taking away much of the strain of planning such a significant event. We will be with you every step of the way.

THE FOOD

Chalk is open from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Much of the produce on the a-la-carte menu is sourced from the estate itself. The Walled Garden and Rock Farm supplies fresh salad, herbs and vegetables, the honey comes from the estate’s apiary and the delicious focaccia bread is freshly made daily with wheat grown on the estate. One of the starters – heritage beetroot salad with smoked ricotta, walnut, caper and sultana dressing – uses home-grown beetroot, while on the main course menu, the wood-fired lamb rump uses Herdwick sheep, which graze on the estate. Danefold Farms graze White Park cattle on the land too, supplying Chalk with dry-age bavette.

Head chef Tom Kemble has vast experience, previously working at globally renowned Swedish restaurant Faviken. He has also been Head Chef at The Pass at South Lodge, and earned a Michelin star at Bonham’s London. Tom has built relationships with high quality suppliers, both local and further afield. La Latteria Burrata, one of the starters, is served with Nutbourne tomatoes, whilst the British cheeses come courtesy of Alsop & Walker, East Sussex. Tom often serves fresh day boat fish too, while Cornish octopus is among the regular starters on his exciting menu.

But despite the pedigree of its chef, the Chalk team insist they are not chasing accolades. Kirsty said: ‘We discussed different ideas, regarding where to pitch the food and who we wanted to appeal to. In the end, we felt that if we are serving world-class wines then the food needs to complement that. However, we also wanted Chalk to be friendly, comfortable and reflect who we are as a family, which is why we welcome people

in just for a drink and also run an Air Stream bar that serves our wine, hot drinks and snacks.’

‘A Michelin star brings with it certain expectations and we wouldn’t want to lose the lightness of touch that we have at Chalk. Tom, however, is an exceptional talent and we are certainly delighted to have been recommended in the Michelin Guide. That was a huge honour for the team to achieve in such a short amount of time. Still, the most important thing is that people are made to feel welcome and relax here, without feeling the need to act a certain way. We also hope that the meal exceeds their expectations so that Chalk becomes an ideal destination for celebrating a birthday, anniversary or special occasion.’

WORDS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright (food photos supplied)

Further details:

Visit Chalk at North Farm, Washington, RH20 4BB

Email: chalk@wistonestate.co.uk Call: 01903 877845 wistonestate.com

Church View, Billingshurst Road

Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0DY

e: judith@dandelionfarewells.com

t: 01403 701001 m: 07769 336022

www.dandelionfarewells.com

La Latteria Burrata with Nutbourne Tomatoes (©Wiston Estate)

Divorce & Separation

Family Law Partners deliver a different approach

majority of clients prefer making decisions themselves rather than a Judge making a decision about their family issues. In family matters ADR includes solicitor-led negotiation, mediation, collaborative law, early neutral evaluation/private FDR, and arbitration, all of which can be used as individual options or as a combination. Two of the most commonly used forms of ADR are solicitor-led negotiations and mediation.

How do you approach divorce and separation at Family Law Partners?

All too often cases end up in Court, often because individuals simply do not have the knowledge as to what options are available to them. Family Law Partners work with clients to help them avoid the traditional Court process where possible, which is often both emotionally and financially draining. As a firm we have one of the strongest dispute resolution teams, which includes mediators, collaborative lawyers, an Arbitrator and a therapist and we can draw on this expertise to provide all clients with a holistic approach to their matter.

What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

ADR is an alternative way to resolve a dispute, other than litigation via Court. The overwhelming

What is solicitor-led negotiation?

The aim of solicitor-led negotiation is to try and reach an agreement via solicitors’ correspondence, discussions on the telephone between solicitors or a round table meeting. Such negotiations can take place at any point and can continue to take place even if Court proceedings have been issued. Often solicitorled negotiation is regarded as a good alternative to mediation, when mediation is not suitable.

And mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary, without prejudice and confidential process whereby the parties meet with a trained independent mediator. The mediator will not impose a decision on the

parties and instead he/she acts as a facilitator to assist the parties to explore and discuss the issues in dispute, with the aim of finding solutions. The mediator ensures both parties feel heard and establishes a balance of power in communication, which is particularly important when children are involved and there is the continued need to coparent.

Do you have any advice for couples who may be looking to separate or divorce, but are unsure of their next steps?

To get early advice from a specialist family solicitor and Resolution member (an organisation committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes). I would also suggest a therapeutic support alongside the legal process to address the emotional impact of the relationship breakdown, which will contribute to considered decisions within the legal process.

A different approach to family law

Our Horsham team deliver exceptional client care and promote the use of alternative dispute resolution to help minimise both the emotional and financial cost of separation.

We can help you with:

• Divorce and Separation

• Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

• Cohabitation disputes

• Children matters

• Prenuptial and Postnuptial agreements

The Family Law Partners office is in central Horsham. We also advise clients in Billingshurst, Cranleigh, Crawley, Godalming, Guildford and surrounding areas.

• Cohabitation agreements

• Mediation and Collaborative Law

For a confidential conversation and to learn more about our fixed fee appointments contact our team:

01403 599215

info@familylawpartners.co.uk

www.familylawpartners.co.uk

Hannah Viet is a Director and Mediator at Family Law Partners in Horsham, specialist family lawyers. We spoke to Hannah about alternatives to Court in family law matters.

GOLDEN TOUCH

HENFIELD-BASED RUM COMPANY KEEPS THE PIRATES AT BAY

John and Georgina Bowell launched Goldstone Rum, in 2022. Based at Henfield Industrial Estate, the couple have created a range of spirits using a unique combination of sugars. Yet while the notes may invoke the spirit of the Caribbean, Goldstone is very much a product of Sussex. AAH met John to find out more…

Why did you form a spirits company?

I still work full-time in the aviation industry, in a role that revolves largely around financial figures. There are aspects of my job that I enjoy, but having previously worked as a chef at pubs and restaurants, I missed the fulfilment factor that comes with physically creating something. During lockdown, I spoke to my wife, as there were facets of corporate life that I didn’t like. One positive of the pandemic was that it taught us that there’s more important things in life than money. So, we decided to do something we were both passionate about and which could provide us with a sense of achievement.

Why choose rum?

I had previously home-brewed beer, although I wasn’t hugely successful, and we felt that perhaps the ideal moment to launch a craft beer brand had been and gone. We love gin, but that market has also become quite saturated. There are some excellent craft distilleries, such as Brighton Gin and Madame Jennifer in Hove, and trying to compete would be a huge challenge, especially as we both have other jobs and two young children. Then we talked about rum. Nobody was making it locally and we felt the demand would be there, as some of the best cocktails are rumbased including mojito, daiquiri, piña colada, dark ‘n’ stormy and Mai Tai.

Is it easy to set-up a distillery?

We expected to be up and running within a few months, but it proved to be a complex and laborious process that took over a year. The licensing process is a minefield, which we hadn’t anticipated. There are different types of licence available if you want to make your own spirits. A compounder’s licence means you can alter the character or flavour of a spirit without distillation, while a rectifier’s licence permits you to re-distil spirits. But if you want to establish your own distillery, you need a distiller’s licence, which is only granted by HMRC when they are satisfied that your plant and processes meet safety and quality standards. However, we did everything asked of us and made our first bottle of rum on 10 December 2022.

How have you fared since then?

Our plan was to sell 2,500 bottles in our first year and we’re just about on target. Thanks to Georgina’s marketing skills, we have received exposure in several trade magazines, while social media has helped us to engage with customers in Europe, America and the Far East. We have received critical recognition too, winning a One Star Great Taste Award and silver in the London Spirits Competition. However, we have found the wholesale market to be a tough one to crack, as leading brands dominate the market. Most of the

John Bowell, owner of Goldstone Rum (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Goldstone Rums (©AAH/Alan Wright)

support has been from individuals and local bars, including Horsham Sports Club, which ordered our rum for a recent Caribbean Day.

What’s the story behind the company name?

We live near Hove Park, home of Goldstone ground, where Brighton & Hove Albion played for many years. It is close to our hearts, so it made sense to use it as our name. From the outset, we’ve proudly promoted ourselves as a Sussex company. There are countless rums that use the spirit of the Caribbean for marketing, with labels depicting pirate ships and tropical islands, even if they’re made on the other side of the world! We wouldn’t feel comfortable appropriating a

different culture for our own commercial benefit. We are not pirates; Goldstone is a representation of who we are.

You’ve also tried to create a unique flavour?

There are many ways to make rum. The most common way is to use molasses, a by-product of sugar cane, as it gives you a rich, caramel sweetness that is easily recognisable. However, for our white rum, we use not only molasses but also jaggery (cane sugar from India), panela (an unrefined cane sugar from Latin America) and freshly squeezed sugar cane juice. By incorporating a variety of sugars without any sugar additives, we’ve created a unique flavour. As far as we’re

Goldstone Rum runs courses where guests can distill their own spirits (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Goldstone now makes five rums (©AAH/Alan Wright)

aware, nobody else in the UK and perhaps even Europe is making rum from freshly squeezed sugar cane juice.

How many rums do you make?

We currently have five. I’ve always found it amazing that I can buy many great wines – Pinot Noir, Bordeaux, Merlot, Chianti, Barolo – and they all taste completely different, yet are made from the same fruit. So, I have enjoyed experimenting with the rum fermentation process to find a niche of our own. Rhum Agricole – a term used when rum is made directly from freshly pressed sugarcane juice – usually has herbaceous undertones, whereas molasses gives you smoothness and a syrupy flavour. Our White

Increased appeal in holiday lets market

Autumn’s arrival marks the end of a busy summer for holiday let landlords. This year, we’ve seen increased interest from investors seeking insights into the holiday let sector and considering their next steps.

New figures from Stripe Property Group set the scene well. In 2021, the group’s figures show the holiday let market dipping by 24 per cent. The sector rebounded by 21 per cent in 2022. This means that the market size is now £2.54bn compared to £1.8bn in 2013. Stripe believes it will grow by a further four per cent in 2023. However, while the buy-to-let (BTL) market – from which many holiday let investors either take part in too or have come from – is grappling with the prospect of new rules on energy performance certificates, holiday let investors must consider their own set of regulatory challenges.

The media recently reported that the government proposes new laws to give local authorities the power to raise the amount of council tax levied against second homes –including holiday lets. So far, 26 per cent of councils have voted in favour of this, potentially raising the bills for over 100,000 second houses. Although the BTL market is going through difficulties stemming from increased finance costs and tightening interest coverage ratio requirements, we have seen some people exit the holiday let sector and move into BTL because of the various tax and other regulatory changes detailed above.

Rum has both. On the nose, you have the grassiness, but there are sweeter notes too, with hints of baked banana and pineapple. We also make a Spiced Rum with nine spices, with vanilla and orange peel providing natural sweetness. Our Amber Rum has distinct earthiness, while our Ginger and Lime is a twist on dark ‘n’ stormy, one of our favourite cocktails. We also have a Coffee Rum, made in collaboration with The Barista Project, using 100% fair trade arabica beans from Honduras and Colombia. The feedback has been positive across the range, especially for our Ginger and Lime Rum, which is currently our best seller.

As a broker supporting many customers with holiday lets, we often discuss these issues in depth, pressing home just how different being an investor in the two markets can be –and not only in terms of taxes and regulations. For example, the values and expectations of a long-term tenant and a short-term tenant will differ greatly. With the former, the focus for the landlord will be managing the property itself in order to provide a safe and stable home. With holiday lets, however, investors can take on the role of hotel manager too, dealing with bookings, check-ins and checkouts, cleaning and keeping the property up to date with amenities like Wi-Fi and hot tubs.

Holiday lets benefit from a favourable tax treatment compared to BTL and because of this and other reasons, the profit margins can be significantly higher. But every penny of this is earned in making multiple guests a year feel welcome and comfortable.

There are countless rums depicting pirate ships and tropical islands.

What are you planning next?

We have invested in some Bourbon and Port barrels and will be aging some of our rum in the coming months. It is not an easy process, as you lose a certain amount of alcohol to evaporation, but the flavour profile after a year or two should be incredible. We are also launching a Kola Nut Rum, capturing the classic cola flavour with hints of cinnamon, orange and lemon.

You also invite people to tour the distillery…

It is a small unit and we are still establishing ourselves as a new company, so we only charge £10 for a tour. People can learn about the fermentation process and see our 500-litre copper still. We also operate a rum school in The Spirit Lab, where people learn the art of distillation and make a rum of their own. We are big fans of Tarquin’s Cornish Gin, which hosts gin schools in the west country. Gin schools are great fun, as it gives people the opportunity to be distillers, which isn’t something you can legally do at home. Everyone chooses from a selection of botanicals, spices and fruits and creates their own drink to take home.

How many can you accommodate?

Up to 16 people for the rum school, so it’s great for couples, as well as corporate and teambuilding events. We’ve also created unique spirits for corporate partners. One business wanted 250 bottles to distribute to its customers, so the staff came here and each person created their own spirit. After a tasting session, they picked the best one and ordered a small batch, using their own branding on the labels. We also produce a special rum for a cocktail bar in Brighton called Gungho! So, if someone wants to create a brand of rum without investing in their own distillery, we can help them realise their dream!

WORDS: Ben Morris

PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information:

Email: contactus@goldstonerum.com

Website: www.goldstonerum.com goldstonerum @goldstone_rum

The Spirit Lab hosts rum-making classes for groups (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Georgina Bowell at Goldstone Rum

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QUIRK OF NATURE

A MORE GENTLE PACE OF LIFE AT THE FLORAL FRINGE FAIR

The Floral Fringe Fair was held at the Loxwood Meadow on 31

August - 1 September.

This year was the 10th staging of the event, founded by Jean and Stephen Jackman in 2012 to celebrate all things quirky and eccentric. After moving between several venues including Leonardslee, Amberley Museum and the Knepp Estate, the fair was held in Loxwood for the first time. After a successful weekend, the organisers hope that the fair has found a home that complements its ethos.

Jean said: ‘We missed two years during Covid and last year’s event was difficult, as it was held on the weekend of the Coronation! People loved the fair when we held it at Knepp, but we’ve not been able to go there in recent years and have struggled to find a suitable alternative. So, when landowner Maurice Bacon invited us to use the meadow, we jumped at the chance. It is ideal, particularly the woodland area, as the sunlight bursts through the canopy to create a beautiful and magical aura. The meadow has a relaxed and mystical feel to it and many stallholders have

remarked upon it. Some people endured long and stressful journeys getting here, yet there is something about the meadow that puts people in a positive frame of mind!’

ECLECTIC THEMES

So, what is the floral fringe? Jean calls it an ‘eclectic mix of fun, eccentric and quirky things all brought together’. There are classic cars, with a particular focus on Morris Minors this year, with the owners’ club celebrating the model’s 75th anniversary. There is food and drink, arts and crafts, and live music ranging from folk and Morris dancing to steampunk rap. Dressing up in vintage clothing is actively encouraged, like a small-scale Goodwood Revival. Steampunk is another common theme, with many donning fascinating costumes combining elements of Victorian fashion with science fiction and fantasy.

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Stephen and Jean Jackman aboard Tony Snow’s 1912 Ford Model T (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Steampunk Society (GSS) hosted games and invited people to step inside a fancy dress wardrobe. One of the games played was Tea Duelling, hosted by Heather Markham (aka the Tiffin Mistress) and Sue Mulcahy (aka the Pot Master). Heather said: ‘Tea duelling is a steampunk sport in which the weapon of choice is a biscuit. Participants dunk a biscuit into their brew and the person who withdraws it last and eats it whole wins. Throughout the duel, they insult each other in a Victorian manner!’

While the GSS was prominent at the fair, many others celebrated their individual creativity with stylish outfits. Several were people that Jean and Steve had spotted at other events or even walking in the street and invited them to come along!

Steve said: ‘We have said to people, “We love your outfit, why don’t you come to the floral fringe?” More often than not, they’re happy to, as they can share their interests with like-minded people. We’ve also visited themed events and classic car shows and invited people, as we appeal to anyone or anything that’s a bit quirky. The way we look at it is, if we find something interesting, there are others who will too.’

‘We also promote local produce and crafts. Since the inaugural fair in 2012, we’ve insisted that everything sold is home-made, home-baked or home-grown, as that way you ensure stallholders are knowledgeable and passionate. We have a few stalls selling interesting, vintage or quirky items too, but most stallholders are selling their own produce, which is wonderful.’

VINTAGE CARAVANS

For the groups and societies present, the floral fringe fair can be one stop on a summer tour. One such group is the Alternative, Classic and Retro (ARC) Caravan Society, whose members own caravans from days gone. These are often towed by classic cars and accessorised with a selection of nostalgic items. Just by relaxing by their caravans, ARC members created one of the more unusual yet fascinating attractions at the fair.

Don and Liz Potter, owners of a 1966 Castleton, said: ‘Like any hobby, caravanning gives us something to look forward to after a busy week. This is our eighth event this summer and we enjoy the floral fringe, as there’s a friendly feel to it. We usually tow our caravan behind a 1966 Humber Super Snipe, but couldn’t

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Jenny Lucas, Carl Welch and Indie in Jenny’s 1971 Beford TK (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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During a tea duel, participants throw insults in a Victorian manner!

this weekend as we’ve also brought along a replica of a 1908 Indian motorbike. Jean and Steve invited us to be part of the fair, so we can just enjoy ourselves. Last night, we had tables and chairs out and all the caravanners put up fairy lights. The public had all gone home, so we chatted over a few drinks, listened to music and relaxed!’

‘Most of the accessories we usually have in our caravan are from the 1960s, but for the floral fringe, we exhibited more of a steampunk theme to provide more variation to some of the other club members. Seeing these caravans from the 50s, 60s and 70s always takes people down memory lane, as they see ones their parents or grandparents once owned. One of the classic car owners has a sign on the windscreen that reads, “I don’t care if your dad had one of these!” Admittedly, it isn’t always easy hearing the same stories all day long, but we don’t really mind talking to people about their own memories!’

MODEL T MOTORING

Motoring has become as important to the fair as fashion, and some owners of classic vehicles are gracious enough to combine both elements. Jenny Lucas, sporting a wonderful steampunk outfit complete with fantastical goggles, arrived in her 1971 Bedford TK truck, affectionately named Bertie. The vehicle has been converted from a horsebox into a unique motorhome, complete with plaques from steam shows across the country. Jenny’s brother Michael was also present, welcoming people into his 1947 showman’s wagon, pulled by a 1966 ERF LV truck called Efel. The generator is a 1942 Lister JP4, once used to power the landing lights at London Airport.

Don and Liz Potter with their 1966 Castleton caravan and replice Indian motorbike (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Gosport Steampunk Society (©AAH/AW)

Jazz singer Kerry Le Bern (©AAH/AW)

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Tony Snow drove a 1912 Ford Model T to the fair. Built a year before Henry Ford launched an assembly line that mass produced the Model T, this rare example transported passengers on rides around the village, raising funds for the MND Association. Tony said: ‘I drive the car thousands of miles every year. She can reach 45mph, but happily motors along at 30 – 35mph. It’s wonderful to show her off at events such as this, as it’s a chance to meet other car enthusiasts and also gives people the chance to enjoy a ride in an extremely rare vehicle.’

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Traditional Methods

It is this kind of experience this keeps people coming back to the Floral Fringe Fair and ensures the organisers that their efforts have been worthwhile! Jean said: ‘Every night for two weeks before the event, we go to bed every night and say, “never again!” But even though it’s hard work, it is rewarding. We’re fortunate to have an amazing team including John Whiteman, Craig Jackman, Josh Payne, and Jack Frost and his daughter Katie, who have helped us for many years.’

‘For me, one of the great things about the fair is that you get out what you put in. If you take the time to engage with the music, games and stallholders, enjoy the music with local food and drink, and connect with the aura of the event, you will have a great time with interesting, like-minded folks.’

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WORDS: BEN MORRIS

PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information:

The Floral Fringe Fair 2024 will be held at Loxwood Meadow on 31 Aug – 1 Sept. For details about stalls and exhibits, email jeanfffjackman@gmail.com or visit floralfringefair.co.uk

Tea Duelling is a steampunk sport (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Morris Dancing (©AAH/Alan Wright)

One of the great things about the fair is that you get out when you put in.