AAH (All About Horsham) January 2016 by AAH (All About Horsham)

AAH ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2016

INTRODUCTION

Words/Layout: Ben Morris Photography: Toby Phillips

e’re supposed to have resolutions at this time of year, aren’t we? Pretend that we’ll do something big or good, but come December, we’ll have actually spent more time watching “okay” TV shows. Like The Big Bang Theory or Come Dine With Me. I did make some resolutions whilst away in the Lake District over Christmas. The important one was to sort out my troublesome knee, which most recently gave way as I played football with tenyear-olds. Wearing a knee brace, I managed several lengthy climbs during my week up north, which gave me confidence that the injury was healing. However, only moments ago, I suffered a setback. I set up a game to play whilst I thought about what to write in this very column. The game involved kicking two socks (rolled into a ball) between two slippers - one placed in my office and one at the opposite end of the hallway. The idea is to flick the sockball into the slippers in the fewest number of shots, with a child’s plastic Scooby Doo cup utilised as a tricky obstacle. Sadly, in the semi-finals of my sockball World Cup (against the German, can you believe) my knee gave way yet again, as I played a flick shot in the hope of scoring 5 to take the game to penalties. Not only does this latest injury put paid to my admittedly narrow chances of playing for England (my last actual game came as a 36-year-old substitute for Ashington FC) but it seriously dents my New Year’s Resolution - just two days into 2016. Honestly, it would just be much safer to sit down and watch Gogglebox. I had also hoped that, during my walks in the Lake District, I would have time to consider another of my resolutions - a book idea I’ve had for several years but haven’t had the opportunity to give

much time to. I’m just too busy messing about with slippers. I was able to get a decent internet connection on one day and started researching my book, which is based around the true story of an unusual spate of animal attacks. Yeah, like Jaws, but not with sharks! But I was distracted by dozens of incredible related stories on the interweb. Stories like the Bengal Tiger of Champawat, who is estimated to have killed 436 people in Nepal and India. Or the Sloth bear of Mysore that killed at least 12 people in India in the 1950s. A sloth! I was too fascinated by these gruesome tales to develop any constructive outlines for my own book. However, I vowed that the following day I would take my dog, Otis, up into the hills and spend the day conjuring narrative. But it was not to be. A short time later, my eightyear-old son inadvertently injured Otis after he spotted a lengthy log, placed precariously on a hill, and found the temptation to push it into the stream too great! After a flying visit to the vet, Otis - who was in the wrong place at the wrong time - was patched up and spent a few days licking his wounds. My planned day of book plotting was replaced by a day of marbles and Top Trumps. So, I guess my point is that resolutions are great, but sometimes life - be it in the form of a rolled up sock or a huge rolling tree trunk - gets in the way. But if you have some stories to tell at the end of the year, well that’s not bad, is it?

BEN MORRIS

COVER STORY

So Long Resolutions! AAH ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2016

Our cover features Artisan Patisserie owner Simon, who has recently returned to the popular Horsham eatery after setting up a similar business in London. The image is taken upstairs at the patisserie, in Market Square, with the lighting spheres adding a little colour and interest to the backdrop. Owners Simon and Steven display intriguing prints by Lidia de Pedro (the eagle-eyed will be amused) but in the background here you will see a special reproduction of a famous Fernando Botero painting of Marie Antoinette. The painting inspired Artisan Patisserie’s motto of ‘Let Them Eat Cake’. This photo as one of only a few real contenders for the cover, as we do not have many new features this month. A huge chunk of AAH is devoted to our Review of 2015, and whilst it features many previously unpublished photos, none were worthy of the cover first time around! We did consider a shot of three staff members at Keeper’s Kennels for the cover. Ultimately, it missed out because it didn’t really reflect what they do. Nigel Emery, who operates Nifty Gallery in Storrington (well worth a visit) was another option. We also briefly discussed a collage of shots to represent the annual review. However, that would go against our tradition ‘one photo’ cover format!

ALTERNATIVES AAH ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

AAH

JANUARY 2015

ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE

6 2015 Review One of the success stories of 2015 is the Dinosaur Island play area in Southwater

2015 Review As work continues at two major housing developments, a new A264 link road opens

Business Family run Keeper’s Kennels now offers grooming and dog walking services

News Round Up New BP garage for Ashington and artist creates ‘animorphs’ for children’s book

2015 Review John Lewis at Home and Waitrose was a welcome addition to Horsham town

Food and Drink We visit Artisan Patisserie, which is apparently still a ‘best kept secret’ for some!

CONTENTS JANUARY 2016

Review of the Year We look back at the biggest stories of 2015 with previously unpublished pictures

2015 Review We look at some of the key events that have already been announced for 2015

Art Nigel Emery, who operates Nifty Gallery in Storrington, has a wide range of styles

History Jeremy Knight tells us about two ‘spies’ from Horsham during The Great War

Online Missed an edition? All of our 2015 magazines can be read at www.aahorsham.co.uk

ALL ABOUT ALL ABOUT HORSHAM EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899

ADDRESS: The Editor, AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT ADVERTISING: KELLY MORRIS advertising@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOBY PHILLIPS tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk info@tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk 07968 795625

ADVERTISING Advertisers report a great response from AAH due to our great editorial features and wide door-to-door distribution. Eighth Page Advert: £55 + VAT Quarter Page Advert: £110 + VAT Half Page Advert: £185 + VAT Full Page Advert: £300 + VAT WE OFFER A BUY FIVE, GET SIXTH ADVERT FREE PROMOTION If you’d like to discuss advertising email us on: advertising@aahorsham.co.uk or call 01403 878026 WEBSITE: wwwaahorsham.co.uk

We publish AAH in full on our website every month, several days before the magazine is distributed. You can read archive editions too. ARCHIVE EDITIONS/PHOTO SALES Past editions of AAH can be purchased for a cost of £3. This includes the cost of postage. Contact the Editor for details. Images can be purchased, either as digital downloads or prints. Contact Toby for details.

THANKS: JANUARY 2016 EDITION Jeremy Knight at Horsham Museum/HDC for providing text and images for the historic article on Horsham Spies (P62) Everyone who has contributed to our 2015 review, including Nick Mowat, Steven Edwards, Andrew Bernardi, Jamie Stanley, Willie Austen and a good number more! (From P17) Keeper’s Kennels for taking care of Otis during Ben’s visit there (P56) Ben’s Mum and Ben’s Wife for proof reading. Best not say who did the better job! DOOR TO DOOR DISTRIBUTION

AAH is delivered directly to 16,000 homes by our Delivery team Horsham: The Paterson family, Andrew Price, Trish Fuller, Sophie Guile, Zoe Bishop, Matt Bland, Oliver Whorwood, Lewis Spiller, The Cocoracchio family, Jemima Delgado-Holland, Toby Phillips, George Voisey, Lauren Maddock, Dominic Baxter, Connor Heald, Paula Hunter,

Jack Stone, Katie Drysdale, George Williams Luke Moran and James Bunch. Billingshurst: Anna Laker, Matt Jillians Southwater: Tom Bourne, Zoe Bacon, Eddie Robinson and Lewis Geal Villages: Ben Ordever (Mannings Heath) Adam Browse (Warnham) Joe West (Ashington), Ben Morris (Rookwood, Dial Post, Steyning), Dave Tidey (West Grinstead), Ben’s Grandma (Wisborough Green), Mike Hoare (Nuthurst), George Brown (Partridge Green), Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale); Mark Simkin (Washington), Liam Palmer (Broadbridge Heath) James Hobbs (Thakeham) and Callum Matthews (Storrington) Mike Miller (Steyning) PICK UP POINTS 4,000 more copies are available at hundreds of businesses, clubs, organisations, and community centres across the district. Our spring-loaded stands can be found at... Horsham: Sakakini (Carfax), Artisan Patisserie (Market Square), Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Museum, Horsham Rail Station, Roffey Post Office, New House Farm, Swan Walk, Village Stands: CoCo’s salon (Southwater); Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Barns Green Village Store and Sumners Ponds, Sew Something in Storrington High Street, Hutching’s Butchers in Partridge Green, Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, Bluecoat Sports Centre (Christ’s Hospital), Chanctonbury Leisure Centre (Steyning) Village Larder (Washington) and many more.

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5 Experience an exceptional evening of pop classics at The Capitol in Horsham on Friday 5 February. First Ladies of Song is a celebration of great female singer-songwriters, performed by acclaimed singers Mary Carewe and Mae McKenna, along with their fabulous band. The duo will perform hits by artists including Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Carly Simon, Annie Lennox, Dolly Parton, Adele, Amy Winehouse and Kate Bush. Mary Carewe has performed as a soloist with ensembles including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, whilst Mae McKenna has featured as a soloist on numerous hit records and film scores (Harry Potter, Nanny McPhee). Tickets cost £19.50 from the box office on 01403 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

Melanie Moore, owner of Melanie Paul Goldsmiths and Enamellers in Storrington, was awarded the Freedom of the City of London at The Guildhall, London. The title has previously been received by the likes of Colin Firth, Morgan Freeman, Florence Nightingale, Princess Diana and Lord Nelson. Melanie is, at present, officially the youngest person ever to hold the title. It means that Melanie can walk her sheep across London Bridge on certain days to be traded within the square mile of the City of London. In the meantime, Melanie will continue to run her jewellery business! www.melaniepaul.co.uk

The St Catherine's Hospice Tree of Light service, held at St Mark's Church, Horsham, on 13 December, gave people time to reflect at the start of the festive

season. The community came together to remember loved ones by writing a message on a special star and placing them on a lit tree. This event followed a similar service at Trafalgar Road Baptist Church on 6 December. Donations from both events will help towards funding end of life care locally, which includes Community Nursing services, Day Hospice sessions, and Inpatient care at the hospice. Local independent recording artist, music producer and event promoter Jamie 'Stan' Stanley (aka Mailman) has released a four song EP via Bandcamp to raise money for Syria Relief. The EP costs £4 and features a track from the forthcoming Mailman album, a live acoustic version of that same track (as seen on RT News channel's current affairs show Going Underground), a live acoustic version of a Mailman favourite and a special bonus track. You can listen to The Karma Sessions: Vol. 2 EP at mailmanmusic.bandcamp.com

Bailey, an Akita/Shepherd cross, has been crowned the highest fundraiser at the RSPCA Big Walkies event, held at Southwater Country Park in October. The inaugural event raised around £1,000 for the local RSPCA branch, with Bailey being the top fundraiser. In appreciation of Bailey’s efforts – and those of his owner - RSPCA Sussex North presented him with a goody bag donated by partnership clinic, Arthur Lodge Veterinary Surgery. Bailey was adopted from RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre by Andrea Grounds and her husband John, from Broadbridge

Heath. The presentation of the goody bag took place at the new RSPCA shop on East Street, Horsham. www.rspcasussexnorth.org.uk Horsham-based Lights & Bushels Theatre Company - who delighted audiences with their open-air production of Jane Austen’s Lady Susan last summer – are next premiering a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novella The Chimes. It tells the story of Toby “Trotty” Veck, an impoverished messenger who has a lifechanging experience one New Year’s Eve when he climbs to the belfry of his local church to investigate the eerie chiming of the bells. Lights & Bushels’ founder, Barry Syder, has re-told Dickens’ tale in 19th Century Horsham. Performances will take place in Causeway Barn from 18 - 20 February at 8pm. Tickets are available from St Mary’s Church office on 01403 253762, Waterstones in Horsham or at www.lightsandbushels.jimdo.com

Southwater racing driver Will Palmer, the 2015 BRDC Formula 4 champion, has won the prestigious McLaren Autosport BRDC Award (MABA). The 18year-old was chosen by a panel of judges consisting of motorsport industry experts. Will claims a prize of £100,000 and an invitation to test a McLaren Grand Prix car. The MABA was established in 1989 to help progress the careers of outstanding young British racing drivers, with previous winners including David Coulthard, Jenson Button, Anthony Davidson and Dario Franchitti. Six nominees underwent fitness and

NEWS ROUND-UP

9 simulator assessments before facing a rigorous two-day test on the Grand Prix track at Silverstone in Formula 2 single-seater, DTM Mercedes and McLaren 650S GT3 machinery. He said: "I need to say a massive thank you to all my family, especially my Dad (Jonathan Palmer), as he puts so much effort into it and he has been a massive support throughout my career.” The proposal for a new leisure centre in Broadbridge Heath was given a unanimous go-ahead at a council meeting on 9 December. The new £12.3 million development will replace the existing Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, with construction to start in autumn 2016. It will include a six court sports hall, an 80-station gym, a cycle studio and three fitness studios, a new café and extended catering facilities serving both the leisure centre and co-joined Horsham District Indoor Bowls Club, a sensory room and new changing facilities for indoor and outdoor activity, including a Changing Places disabled changing facility. Also provided is a multi-use games facility, a soft play area, climbing wall and treatment room for beauty and sports therapy sessions. The new centre should open in 2018.

Michael Portillo will be at The Capitol on 21 February to present Life: A Game of Two Halves. An historian at heart, listen to Michael's extraordinary story as a leading personality in the House of Commons. Since leaving the House, Michael has endeared himself to many with his foray into broadcasting. He is well-known for presenting a

12 number of shows on great railway journeys. Tickets £17 from the box office on 01403 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com Wendy Russell, Steyning Grammar School PE teacher and hockey coach, has been named Disability Coach of the Year at the Sports Coach UK Awards in Manchester. The award is in recognition of Wendy’s work in revolutionising the way deaf or hard of hearing young people take part in hockey, by creating a hockey-specific sign language. Wendy set up a hockey club that was for deaf people only, so applied for and gained funding to run a Deaf Hockey Sportivate project in Brighton. This is the first deaf hockey club in Great Britain. Her remarkable new sign language has been ratified by Remark and endorsed by the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS). Wendy has also won the Sussex Sports Award Sportivate Project of the Year and was shortlisted for the ‘Community Award’ in The Sunday Times & Sky Sports News Sportswoman of the Year Awards.

Sussex Wildlife Trust, based at Woods Mill, Henfield has been able to buy a Defender 110XS Land Rover, thanks to a new partnership with Caffyns Land Rover. It will be used on a daily basis to take up to six volunteers to its nature reserves all over the county to carry out vital conservation work. Without volunteer support, this work would cost the Sussex Wildlife Trust tens of thousands of pounds in contractors’ fees each year. The Land Rover’s special features include a ceramic

paint coating which prevents mud and grime sticking to the vehicle. To find out more about volunteering with the SWT call 01273 497562 or email lizfrancis@sussexwt.org.uk Christ’s Hospital Theatre was the venue for a visit from a legend of British song writing, Sir Tim Rice, on 26 November. Sir Tim, who along with Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber has written hit musicals including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Evita, spoke to pupils on the topic of ‘The Importance of Failure’. The triple-Oscar-winning lyricist gave the audience a fascinating, self-deprecatory and humorous account of his career and of how the pathway to success is anything but a smooth one. During his talk, CH pupils performed some of his favourite songs including I Don’t Know How To Love Him, sung by Charlotte Willcock, Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, by Mattie Slade, and Another Suitcase in Another Hall by 13 year-old Phoebe Weir. Sir Tim stayed on afterwards to answer questions, sign autographs and pose for selfies. He may well have heard stories about the School from his father, Hugh Rice, who was educated at Christ’s Hospital in the 1920s.

Horsham and Mid Sussex Voluntary Action will be holding its first Volunteer Fair on Saturday 16 January in Horsham Library from 10am - 1pm. Local nonprofit making organisations and charities will be showcasing their work and volunteering opportunities they offer. Several volunteering posts are currently available. The Horsham

Picture courtesy of Lovell. M

Submit your News and Events to Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk We also add listings to the Events guide at www.aahorsham.co.uk

16 Garden Music Festival is seeking volunteers to join them in planning and organising next year’s festival. Sussex Central YMCA is looking for a volunteer who can mentor young people (aged 16-25) whilst The Phoenix Stroke Club seeks a lunchtime helper and an activities helper. St Peter's House Project, which supports people living with HIV, is in need of volunteers in the roles of a Learning & Development Facilitator, Community Support Worker and an office Administrative Assistant. For details call Voluntary Action on 01444 258102, email VolunteerCentre@hamsva.org.uk or go to www.hamsva.org.uk

A new petrol filling station has opened just off the A24 in Ashington. The station also incorporates an M&S Simply Food store, a Wild Bean Cafe and automatic car wash. On the forecourt, there’s a range of premium fuels alongside regular unleaded and diesel. The station has been built on land south east of Martins Farm, London Road, Ashington, and has created in the region of 30 jobs. A service area has long been proposed for the site, with Horsham District Council first granting permission for one back in 1994!

For the first time, Horsham District Council’s Horsham Museum is putting on an eclectic display of original photographs that reveal some of the fascinating stories of Horsham’s past. This small exhibition has a photograph of the Prince of Wales sitting in a carriage in front of a gloriously bedecked railway station. The Prince had just arrived from London to Horsham to lay the foundation stone at Christ’s Hospital. Another image records the opening of Horsham Bowls club in 1906. The exhibition is on now until 27 February. Admission is free.

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NEWS ROUND-UP 15

780444 or email Catherine.bristow@dvlcc.org.uk Acclaimed artist and royal portrait painter Sara Leighton has published her first children’s book, The Naughty Greedy Pandamoth and Other Amazing Animorphs. Meet the Pompom-Legged Craboodle, who longs to join the circus and see his name in lights, and the Humpalumparaff, who wanders the desert at night singing opera to the baby jackals and meerkats. Sara’s collection of wildly imaginative creatures is written in amusing verse with delightful illustrations and will appeal to children of all ages. Sara, who lives in Horsham, trained at St Martin's School of Art and found early success in London before moving to Florence to study under the great Italian master, Pietro Annigoni. Her first children’s book, available through Book Guild Publishing, has been well-received and can be bought at Waterstone’s in Horsham and Amazon.

The Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity Spring Ball will be held in the beautiful surrounds of the Felbridge Hotel and Spa in East Grinstead on 19 March. Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity supports babies and children with Cerebral Palsy and receives no statutory funding. Enjoy a drinks reception followed by a three course meal and musical entertainment by Fever and Swingtime Sweethearts. Tickets cost £75 from www.dvlcc.org.uk or the Trust office on 01403

The second stage of a consultation regarding education in Storrington and the surrounding villages has begun. An initial public consultation took place earlier this year with parents, schools and local communities giving their views on whether there should be a change to the age at which pupils transfer to secondary school. The Storrington area is the last remaining locality in West Sussex where schools are not organised in line with the key stages of the national curriculum. The results of this consultation, which ended in September 2015, have been analysed and now a further consultation – focusing on specific proposals for each school in the area – has been approved. The consultation covers possible options to: Extend the age range of Amberley CE First School, Ashington CE First School, Storrington First School, Thakeham First School, St Mary’s CE First School Washington and West Chiltington First School from age 4–10 (Year R–Year 5) to become age 4-11 (Year R - Year 6) primary schools with effect from 1 September 2017. Relocate Thakeham First School from its current site at The Street, Thakeham to accommodation on part of the existing Rydon Community College campus, with effect from 1 September 2017. Close Rydon Community College with effect

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from 31 August 2017 and open an age 11-12 (Year 7 to Year 8) annex of Steyning Grammar School on part of the existing Rydon Community College campus buildings with effect from 1 September 2017. The consultation is expected to launch on 4 January and run until 12 February 2016. A series of public meetings will also be arranged. Rydon Community College has launched a ‘Save Our School’ campaign with a petition on its website.

Award-Winning Sausages by David Bell The girls in Farlington’s Year 9 were given the opportunity to take part in a Young Driver taster session in November. It was arranged by local Skoda dealership, Station Garage at Broadbridge Heath. Each girl was given a 20 minute lesson by the instructors from Young Driver, which specialises in offering driving opportunities for 11-17-year-olds. The girls drove the new Skoda, dual controlled Citigo cars in a designated area set up for them to learn and then practice a variety of driving manoeuvres.

Also find us at New House Farm in Horsham, Budgen’s in Billingshurst, Capel Stores and Sussex Produce in Steyning. You can also enjoy our sausages at cafe’s including The Cafe (Nightingale Rd), The Olive Tree (North Heath Lane) and New House Farm Cafe Made using only British Quality Assured Pork. Available every Saturday at the Local Produce Market in the Carfax and many other quality stockists We are a family run business & pride ourselves on using only the finest ingredients for all our sausages. We are continually creating new varieties to complement the more traditional flavours. Some of our most popular sausages include: Traditional Pork Cumberland Pork, Sage & Red Onion

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A special event will be held to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the first peal rung at St Mary’s Church (11 April 1776). A peal requires every possible combination of the bells to be rung, 5040 in this case, which takes around three hours. Horsham bell ringers, with assistance from many other ringers, Horsham District Council and the Sussex County Association of Change Ringers, are organising a number of events to educate the public on bell ringing. On Friday 8 April, a bell ringing exhibition will be opened in St Mary’s and will remain in place until 11 April. On Saturday 9 April, St Mary’s tower will be open from 10.30am to 5.30pm, with demonstration ringing and a bell ringers’ church service at 5.30pm, to which all are welcome. The Bell Meadow mini ring of eight bells will be set up in the Carfax bandstand, whilst three groups of hand bell ringers will

We do have a website, with lots of bits and pieces, which you might want to skim over on a rainy day. www.aahorsham.co.uk

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25 be based in the town centre, with a beer tent offering a bell ringers’ beer. Finally, on Monday 11 April, eight experienced local ringers will attempt to ring a peal of a method known as Grandsire Triples, using the same composition as that rung in 1776. Three technology entrepreneurs have launched The Soldier’s Box, a concept to organise and store all your most treasured digital possessions. Soldiers on the frontline during The Great War kept their personal photos, private letters and important documents in one small box or the tin given as a Christmas gift by Princess Mary. In the event the soldier lost his life, ‘The Soldier’s Box’ would be passed to his loved ones. Darren Richmond, an IT professional from Horsham, decided to bring the concept into the 21st century. He shared the idea with two friends, Lee Rendell and Greg Roffe, and together they designed and developed the new digital version of The Soldier’s Box. For more information or to sign up visit www.thesoldiersbox.com

The Horsham Decorative and Fine Arts Society has announced details of its spring programme of lectures, held at The Capitol. On 13 January, Louise Schofield presents Temples, Tombs and Treasures: In search of the Queen of Sheba, before Oliver Everett presents King George III: The Most Cultured Monarch, Art Collector and Friend of America on 10 February. On March 9, the Rt. Rev. Christopher Herbert gives a lecture on The Mosaics of Ravenna and on 13 April,

Jonathan Hinden presents Mozart's Magic Flute: More Than Meets the Eye. All lectures start at 10.45 am, with coffee available from 9.45am. Admission is £5 with visitors welcome. http://sussex.nadfas.net Trading Standards officers are warning residents to be on their guard against bogus telephone scams. Fake callers have been conning innocent victims by alleging they have been passed their contact details by West Sussex County Council in connection with a recent accident. The calls are ‘phishing’ attempts to gather personal details and it is usually elderly residents who are targeted. Richard Sargeant, Trading Standards Team Manager, said: “We advise anyone targeted by cold-callers or doorstep traders to hang up or say no, and report it.” Other sham traders claim to work on behalf of the council offering ‘left over tarmac’ for driveway repairs or claim to be Trading Standards officers seeking payments in connection with ‘court proceedings’. Anyone concerned about a potential scam can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506. To protect against cold-calling scams register with the Telephone Preference Service on 0345 070 0707 or at www.tpsonline.org.uk

An insightful new business book, Leading Teams, 10 Challenges; 10 Solutions, highlights the ten most common obstacles teams face, and provides simple, effective strategies to enable leaders to overcome them. Leading Teams is written by Mandy Flint from Horsham and fellow

leadership consultant Elisabet Vinberg Hearn, from Brighton. They have worked with top brands including MasterCard, American Express, Virgin Atlantic, and IKEA. Their first book, The Team Formula, received two awards after it was published in 2013. For information visit www.leadingteamsbook.com Goodwood has announced that tickets for the 2016 Festival of Speed and Revival events are now on sale. The Festival of Speed will be held on 23-26 June. Revival, the world’s largest historic motor racing and vintage culture event, will take place on 9 - 11 September. For tickets visit www.goodwood.com/tickets or call 01243 755055.

A group of young musicians are coming together for a concert in aid of refugees. The concert will be held at St Peter’s Church, Henfield, BN5 9NY on 29 January from 8pm with money being donated to refugees arriving in Sussex. Artists performing include Jack Harding, Maisie Peters, Zyg Reeves, Amelia Hilton, Kat Whitting, Amber Varley, Hannah and Jess Gilder, Beth Metcalfe and George Comber. Tickets cost £4 and are available from 01273 495532 or from Henfield Furnishings. Pictured: Jack Harding performing as part of Route 42, for AAH in March 2015

Send your news submissions to AAH by emailing editor@aahorsham.co.uk Events are also listed on our website at www.aahorsham.co.uk

Proud Sponsors of AAH’s ‘My Story So Far’ features

2015 Review of the Year

We look at the faces and places that made local news headlines in 2015, as AAH photographer Toby Phillips selects some of his favourite images of the year. Rather than just re-telling old news, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve dug out many photographs that were not originally published in AAH - with nearly all of the pictures in the collage above appearing here for the first time. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also included a new feature on the award-winning Dinosaur Island in Southwater, and have selected a few events to add to your 2016 diary. The rest is just filler.

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ark Antony Windows has established a sterling reputation for supplying and installing high quality windows, doors and conservatories at competitive prices. Recently, the locally-based company has expanded its expertise by creating a number of stunning extensions. Recently, the vastly experienced team - led by Mark Edwards and Antony Deakin – built a beautiful ground floor extension with raised patio at a family home in Southwater (pictured above.) Antony said: “We offer a full service - from the planning process through to build and installation - and we have all of the necessary expertise in every department. “The owner of the property wanted to create a large extension to the kitchen in order to create a light and spacious room with underfloor heating, and bi-fold doors leading out to a large patio overlooking the garden. “The patio itself is bordered with glass panels to give it a sharp, contemporary look.”

At Mark Antony Windows, our aim is to provide the best service supplying and installing PVC-U and aluminium products in the South East and all at competitive prices. Directors Mark Edwards and Antony Deakin have more than 35 years of experience in the industry. We cater to all needs, from complete conservatories and extensions - including design, project oversight and planning regulation - to minor repairs, locks and condensed units.

Acceditations

All of our frames are calcium organic and are recycled to create PVC products.

‘We are a certified supplier and installer of bi-fold doors from Beaufort by AluK’

Our windows are manufactured using the WHS Halo Profile, using a unique technology of a five chamber thermal system to give extra protection against the outside elements. We are also a certified supplier and installer of bi-fold doors from Beaufort by AluK. The company is leading the way in designing a complete and stunning range of aluminium folding and sliding doors.

Mark Antony Windows has also been recognised by the Insured Window Guarantees (IWG). IWG was established in 1996 to provide

Energy Efficient

Our windows are available with a variety of glass sealed unit configurations and certified by the British Fenestration Rating Council's Energy Rating Scheme. At Mark Antony Windows, our standard double glazed windows are A+8 rated, our triple glaze is A+13 rated and we have a A+20 option available if required.With carbon emissions high on the global agenda and the cost of fuel rising, we are all looking for ways to make our homes more energy efficient. Therefore replacement windows are now energy rated which will keep your bills down.

consumers with peace of mind in the event their original installer ceases trading and is unable to meet their guarantee obligations. Previously, Mark Antony Windows was called upon to help a Southwater family that had been the victim of poor workmanship, featured in an episode of the Channel 5 programme Cowboy Builders, presented by Dominic Littlewood and Melinda Messinger. If you are thinking about improving your home and you would like a free no-obligation quote, then contact us today!

REVIEW OF 2015

Toby’s Picks of 2015

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GYMNAST HARRY HARROD, K2 LEISURE CENTRE: This was a challenging shoot as it was held during a very busy gymnastics session at K2. I wanted to make Harry stand out as the subject without any distractions, so I used very powerful lighting and modifiers to overpower the ambient light in the room.

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JANUARY 2015 Of course, January was defined by events in Paris. Two masked gunmen stormed the office of Charlie Hebdo, a satirical magazine in France, killing 12 people. This led to a flurry of ‘Je Suis Charlie’ declarations made around the world on social media in support of freedom of speech. The year would end with Facebook users again ‘standing side-by-side’ with a grieving France by posting hilarious things their children have said with a tinted tricolour flag over their profile picture. Meanwhile, here in Horsham... The University of Brighton revealed plans to build a higher education facility at the vacant Novartis site in Horsham. The biotechnology and biomedicine centre would create 2,250 jobs, bring £1.7 billion of investment to the region and attract 3,500 students. Sadly, the idea was ditched, shortly after May’s general election. We reported on an extraordinary sale at Tooveys Fine Art Auctioneers in Washington. A Chinese famille rose and pea green ground vase dated from the reign of the Qianlong Emperor (17361795) was sold for £520,000, a record for Toovey’s. The AAH meal review came courtesy of the Buenos Aires Steak House in Market Square, Horsham. The restaurant, which had at the time only been open for five months, has proved to be a popular eatery with its Argentinian flavours and delicious lomo (fillet steak).

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We’re on Twitter! Well, not on it very much, but we do type something mildly trivial every few weeks @AAHMagazine

20 FEBRUARY 2015

MARCH 2015

A plane crash in Taiwan highlighted the changing face of global news coverage. Footage recorded on dashcams showed TransAsia Airways Flight 235 clipping a highway before crashing into a river. The footage was quickly aired by media organisations the world over and viewed by millions more on YouTube. The western media tends not to report extensively on Asian air crashes that claim 31 lives, unless of course there’s an incredible clip of it happening that can be shown without much in the way of additional reporting!

It was nothing short of a miracle that we finished March’s edition. It was just so hard to concentrate for those final few days, considering what had happened to poor Madonna - falling over at The Brits. The pop Queen’s cape had been wrapped too tightly, apparently, causing her to be yanked over by her own dancers. For just a brief moment, the incident threatened to unravel the very fabric of the space-time continuum and destroy the entire universe. But, like a pro, Madonna carried on as though nothing had happened. This incident was one of 6,982 that The Daily Mail would claim sent ‘Twitter into meltdown’ during 2016, even though it didn’t.

Meanwhile, here in Horsham...

Francis Maude announced his intention not to stand at May’s General Election. Francis said it had been a ‘huge privilege’ to serve as Horsham’s MP and thanked local party members for their ‘tremendous support’. He added: “I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Christina and our children.”

Dujardin and her horse, Valegro, that has see Becky’s work reach a wider audience.

In AAH, we met artist Becky Taylor as she exhibited work at Horsham Museum and Art Gallery shortly before her 21st birthday. Becky draws all manner of animals and pets, but it is her drawings of Olympic gold medallist Charlotte

Sara Hobbs (below) was featured after her Absolute Fruitcake earned a two star award from The Great Taste Awards. Sara, from Thakeham, uses Dark Star Espresso to ensure that the cake is moist and holds depth and flavour.

Inheritance Taax could pose a threat to your prosperity...

Liberty Property Trust set out its vision for the north Horsham development in a leaflet dropped to 20,000 homes in Horsham. As part of its £400 million investment, Liberty outlined a ‘sustainable and sensitively designed’ expansion of the town with 2,500 new private and affordable homes on a 600 acre site north of the A264. Our My Story So Far feature came courtesy of Victoria Eisermann, a former model and actress

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REVIEW OF 2015 Toby’s Picks

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12 HOUR LAWNMOWER RACE, FIVE OAKS: We featured the lawn mower race in 2011 as well, so we knew what to expect this year. It was good to chat to the guys in the pits about stories of disastrous mechanical failures, along with racing success! I had to keep my eyes peeled for stray mowers as I photographed the racers and their families close to the track - after signing a disclaimer form!

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who now devotes her life to animals through the K-9 Angels. Victoria, who lives in Billingshurst, has since appeared in our news pages for endurance fundraisers. A new art gallery opened in Bishopric, Horsham. Cloud exhibits a superb, wellresearched range of artists including Katy Jade Dobson, Courty and Edward Waite. This year, Cloud also showcased new work by JJ Adams, who has been one of the country’s most noteworthy art success stories over the past two years.

APRIL 2015 In a dark year, when disaster and tragedy were seldom out of the headlines, the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Nepal in April has been largely forgotten. The quake killed nearly 4,000 people, destroyed thousands of structures including the treasured Dharahara Tower and caused an avalanche on Everest that led to the death of 17 climbers. Without a catchy Twitter hashtag to support, people had to donate money and offer genuine humanitarian aid instead. Meanwhile, here in Horsham... Two world premieres came to The Capitol in Horsham. Horrible Histories shows Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders were both brought to life on the

DID YOU KNOW? Jack is taking ‘Wisdom of a Fool’ on tour, including the Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford, on 5 - 6 February

Toby’s Picks

ONE TO WATCH FEATURES century web-based formats. In Charlie’s case, it was intriguing to hear him talk about changes in the way IT is taught, as schools have to adapt to the fact that some pupils are bored by what is on the curriculum. They know it all already and want to press on with more complex challenges. But our favourite One to Watch feature came not from a teenage talent, but Jack Lane, who wrote and starred in one man show, Wisdom of a Fool. It was a meticulous production - not only our favourite of the year but The Capitol manager’s too - and earned a deserved standing ovation.

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JACK LANE, PARK BARN, HORSHAM: Ben and I had originally expected to interview and photograph Jack on the stage set of The Capitol but unfortunately the main theatre was being used already. I came up with a back-up plan of using Park Barn, next to Park House over the road. This building was familiar to me as I have worked on corporate shoots there. The hanging iron chandeliers and oak beams were a perfect subtle backdrop to the mini car prop and Jack's tweed Norman Wisdom suit.

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hese features tend to revolve around teenagers making their mark in sport (gymnast Harry Harrod, runner Orla Brothers) or the creative arts (film-maker Sam Sutterlin, poet Philippa Crundwell). In 2015, we particularly enjoyed meeting writer and blogger Jack Edwards, and promising computer programmer Charlie Maclean, as they have been able to educate us in modern technology. We must accept that, whilst its day may not yet be over, the printed magazine format adopted by AAH has a sell-by date. So it was interesting to hear the ways in which Jack connects with young readers on 21st

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REVIEW OF 2015 Toby’s Picks

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HORSHAM HAWKS BASKETBALL CLUB, TANBRIDGE SCHOOL: This was another shoot in a sports hall with challenging lighting. Strong afternoon sunlight was coming across the basketball courts but I decided to utilise this by under-exposing the background and adding light to the subject (left) for the front cover shot. This was just one of several pictures I was very pleased with.

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stage for the first time in the town. Later in the year, David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny also made its premiere at The Capitol. AAH featured interviews with all of the candidates standing in Horsham at the 2015 General Election. They were Martyn Davis (Labour), Darrin Green (Green), Jim Rae (Independent) Jim Duggan (Peace Party), Morwen Millson (Liberal Democrats), Roger Arthur (UKIP), James Smith (Something New) and Jeremy Quin (Conservative). Whilst the interviews made for interesting reading, they had little impact on the overall result as the Tories won, as expected, with an increased majority.

TOOVEY’S

MAY 2015 What with all the dark news headlines the first part of the year had brought, we decided to have some fun with the general election. Firstly, those of a mischievous nature meandered around town centres hoping that a political pollster might ask them how they intended to vote. “I told them I’d vote Labour!” they’d snigger, as the sauntered off to do something else totally off the wall, like starting an ‘Ed Miliband is Fit’ Facebook page. David Cameron forgot which football team he supported and was banned from listening to The Smiths, but it didn’t matter as he strolled to election victory. However, if we’d have heard about ‘Piggate’ back in April, who knows?

A Chinese hu-shaped porcelain vase, auctioned in our December specialist sale of Asian Ceramics & Works of Art for £50,000

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REVIEW OF 2015 by artists and signed by celebrities. They were later auctioned for charity. Among those taking part was comedian Vic Reeves, who created Lady Lollipop in support of Horsham-based wildlife charity, Born Free Foundation.

The Wisborough The rhododendron arboreum gracing the front lawn of South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding was at its imperious best. It is the largest single-stemmed arboreum in the country, standing at 25 feet, but its striking cerise flowers only bloom for about three weeks every year.

MEAL REVIEW FEATURES

f we had £1 for every time someone said “You two just go around eating out at all the nice restaurants” then Toby and I might be able to afford to regularly eat out on a more casual basis! For several reviews this year, Maria (Mrs Toby Phillips) has joined us, and we’ve collectively agreed that our favourite meal review this year has - just about - been The Wisborough in Wisborough Green. The pub looked glorious and the meat was out of this world. Yet, following our review in June’s AAH, we did hear conflicting reports. Some readers loved it, some did not... In 2015, we were also pleasantly surprised by a resurgent The Windmill in Littleworth and The Blue Ship along The Haven. We also enjoyed meals at The Three Crowns in Wisborough Green and Wabi.

Lodge) has been my favourite meal this year. The staff and attention to detail are what makes this restaurant stand out, and the lunch offers especially good value.

Here’s a few places others have enjoyed over the course of 2015...

Lewis Hamblet, Executive Chef at Exclusive Hotels (South Lodge Hotel): My favourite local spot is Mermaid Fish and Chip restaurant on Brighton Pier. We’ve been going for the last 18 years and we all love it because its so consistent.

James and Penny Middleton-Burn, The Crown at Dial Post: We had a good meal at The Green Man in Partridge Green. James had some wonderful fresh smoked haddock and our children were well accommodated for. We also enjoy Chequers at Rowhook. Steven Edwards, former ‘Masterchef: The Professionals’ champion and chef at etch: I would say Matt Gillan at The Pass (South

Billy Willison, owner of Billy’s on the Road, Billingshurst: Every Monday night you will find me in The Blue India in Billingshurst, hunkering down with a succulent chicken tikka (no sauce) extra hot tarka daal, brinjal bhaji and pilau rice, all washed down with an ice cold Cobra! Peter Nottage, The Sussex Oak: My highlight is sitting on the rear terrace at Anchor Bleu in Bosham, overlooking the harbour, enjoying fish and chips with a great pint of locally brewed ale and the dog hidden under the table!

What’s been your favourite meal? We love hearing reviews - good and bad so do please send us your hot tips and dining disasters by emailing Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk

In AAH, we looked back to 1945 as the country marked 70 years since VE Day. The feature included rarely seen images from the town at the end of the war. Our history features, compiled in conjunction with Horsham Museum, continue to be one of the most popular sectons of AAH.

JUNE 2015 More glum headlines as a gunman opened fire on tourists in Tunisia, killing 38 people at a popular resort. On a happier note, male chauvinism took a blow thanks to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, held in Canada. The nation’s interest grew steadily as England progressed through to the semi-finals (scoring some terrific goals against Canada and Norway, in particular). Only a truly unfortunate own goal prevented England from reaching the final and the women were perhaps unlucky to lose out to the GB Davis Cup team in the BBC SPOTY competition, given the huge contribution of just one man in that team. No, not James Ward. Meanwhile, here in Horsham...

The Windmill

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If you’re organising an event, send details for our web listings to editor@aahorsham.co.uk

26 West Street, Horsham on Friday 12 June. Customers sought to take advantage of opening offers for the first 100 customers spending £50 or more. AAH reported on one of the district’s foodbanks at St Andrew’s Methodist Church on Crawley Road, Roffey. In the 2014-15 financial year, Horsham District Foodbank fed 988 people, of whom 289 were children. Nearly a third of all referrals were for households in which at least one person was in paid employment. The foodbank was launched in January 2014 and there are now five held each week. The foodbanks were set up by Horsham Churches Together (HCT) working with The Trussell Trust.

JULY 2015 Toby’s Picks

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ORLA BROTHERS (ATHLETE), K2 LEISURE CENTRE, CRAWLEY: The weather was terrible for this shoot. Ben (AAH editor) was standing trackside under an umbrella with Orla’s mum and brother! The driving rain and wind were a bad combination for shooting with 1200 Watt strobe lights on the track. I had to improvise, so placed clear plastic bags over the flash heads to keep water out. My Canon 1DX is waterproof, so I managed to shoot a few frames before Orla and I were soaked! My other concern was lighting, as I did not to have too much of a colour cast reflected from the track, but it all worked out.

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We’ve started to name storms now so that we take more notice of them. That seems a ridiculous idea, but it certainly works for lions. Particularly if they’re called Cecil. When Walter Palmer, a dentist and recreational game hunter from Minnesota, shot Cecil the lion on July 1,

REVIEW OF 2015 the world went beserk. Having paid US$50,000 to a professional guide to enable him to kill a lion, the dentist went into hiding as he was initially threatened with arrest. In his absence, an enraged world took its vengeance on Palmer’s dental practice. Some good has come of the killing - five months after Cecil’s death, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service added two species of lions to the endangered species list, making it very difficult for US dentists with far too much disposable income to shoot them.

Toby’s Picks OMAR AT ROOTS TO GROWTH, WASHINGTON: This image of Omar was a strong contender to be the front cover of November’s edition and as a result it was not used properly within the feature itself. It was only added as a small image on deadline day when a different picture went on the front. Ben and I had a great experience at Roots to Growth. I particularly enjoyed photographing the enthusiastic volunteers as they worked on the plot whilst giving an insight into their lives. Omar’s story was perhaps the most tragic and most fascinating. The light was bright but nicely diffused with light cloud, perfect for photography!

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Meanwhile, here in Horsham... AAH ran a picture special on another highly successful Race for Life in Horsham Park. Around 1,400 women took part in the 5km run (or walk, in some cases) and collectively raised nearly £100,000 for Cancer Research UK. AAH featured the model boat show held at Sumners Ponds in Barns Green. Many young people were particularly interested in a new type of remote controlled format called First Pilot View, in which people guide their machine by using video goggles linked to a a camera on the Quad.

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BEST NEWS FOR CHILDREN 2015

Dinosaur Island July saw the opening of an award-winning children’s play area at Southwater Country Park

dults can’t help but feel a bit jealous when taking children along to the Dinosaur Island adventure play area in Southwater Country Park. It’s simply so much better than the play parks we experienced as children. I recall that one of the most popular features in the old Horsham Park play area was a series of concrete pipes. Climbing through them, you could sometimes learn new words that the teenagers had scribbled whilst downing cheap cider on a cold, wet Friday night. Was there, once upon a time, a consultation during which children of that generation demanded a play park bearing all the hallmarks of a construction site? A play park themed around prehistoric monsters certainly seems a better idea... With special effects including an active volcano, red hot lava flows, a tar quagmire, a dinosaur swamp and a prehistoric jungle, the play area has attracted a huge number of visitors since it was opened in July. Improved parking at the Southwater Country Park site and a dinosaur themed makeover at the café have also added to the enjoyment of the experience.

Now, the Dinosaur Island has earned Horsham District Council’s Parks and Countryside team international recognition by winning the 2015 International Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice. The award was presented to Anna Chapman (Countryside Development Officer) and Cllr Jonathan Chowen (Cabinet Member of Leisure and Culture, and Parks) at a ceremony in the Palace of Westminster in November. The award recognises the sustainable nature of the recreation ground and the way it “helps

“It is an imaginative themed play space that commemorates a past age and it is sure to keep children entertained for many years”

REVIEW OF 2015

homelessness, put out an urgent appeal for a new home. The charity’s lease at the United Reformed Church in Springfield Road expired, and despite a campaign supported by the West Sussex County Times, The Ark closed in September.

AUGUST 2015

others to help the environment”. Cllr Jonathan Chowen said: "I am delighted that the team at Horsham District Councils Parks & Countryside Department has been recognised by this prestigious award and my congratulations go out to all those involved in the planning, development and launch of our fantastic new play area. “It is an imaginative play space that commemorates a past age and it is sure to keep children entertained for many years in the future. “It is part of our vision and ambition to update Southwater Country Park as an outdoor sports and leisure area for the enjoyment of all our local residents."

The hot national topic was immigration, as thousands of people made their way into Europe through The Balkans or even the Mediterranean. The asylum seekers were coming from countries such as Syria and Afghanistan to escape war and conflict. Europeans reacted to the crisis in different ways and initially elements of the British media reacted with pathetic partisan panic, with headlines that went beyond national NIMBYism. It took the body of Aylan Kurdi, a three-year old Syrian boy who washed up on a Turkish beach, to change perceptions. Meanwhile, here in Horsham... Kissingate Brewery in Lower Beeding won a CAMRA Silver Award (Speciality Beer Category) at the Great British Beer Festival. The brewery’s Black Cherry Mild has previously won at regional beer festivals and is now a CAMRA Gold Champion Beer of Britain award winner (South East).

IGUANODON INSPIRED The inspiration for the park came from an Iguanodon dinosaur fossil found in the clay in Southwater in 1920. Fact and figures are a key feature of the Dinosaur Island, developed in conjunction with eibe Play Ltd, a leading designer and manufacturer of outdoor playground equipment. The eibe Play Ltd Managing Director commented: “It has been uplifting to watch Dinosaur Island come to fruition, a project which absolutely embraces all that is important about the past, present and future of our world. “Being able to share the experience of receiving our Green Apple Awards alongside members of Horsham District Council was a real privilege.” The winning entry now goes forward for further judging and the possibility of representing the UK in the Brussels-led European Business Awards for the Environment.

AAH visited Sedgwick Park House, one of the district’s most fascinating and historic homes, to meet current owners John and Clare Davison. The home has had a turbulent life as a castle, lodge, manor and finally house, but spent many years in a derelict state before extensive restoration work was carried out.

DID YOU KNOW? Having received the Légion d’honneur, war veteran Bob Piper will soon be awarded the Freedom of Southwater!

SEPTEMBER 2015

Toby’s Picks MATT CHARMAN, THE NATIONAL, LONDON: This was a fun shoot, despite having to drag lighting and power packs up to London on the train. Despite the obvious 'city' background to use, I went for a simple, clean shot of one of the concrete pillars outside The National Theatre on South Bank,. There is a view through to a painted red wall, adding depth to the image.

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The Prime Minister did what to a pig? Really? Okay, so also this month scientists announced the discovery of a new pre-human species of hominid that existed 2.8 million years ago. Which is interesting, but not as interesting as David Cameron (allegedly) putting his private parts in a hog’s head in a bizarre toff Oxford club initiation! In other news, hundreds of people died in a stampede whilst on a pilgrimage to Mecca, but back to that main story about ‘Piggate.’ Well, of course he’s denied the allegation - it’s not something you’d admit to. But, well, it’s something he might have done...

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Meanwhile, here in Horsham... Horsham District Council vowed to invest £12.3m to build a new sports centre at Broadbridge Heath. It will be developed next to the existing leisure centre and will include an outdoor running track, multi-use games areas, a six court sports hall, an 80-station gym, cycle studio, three fitness studios, sensory room, changing rooms, café and catering facility.

MY STORY SO FAR FEATURES

OCTOBER 2015

he ‘My Story So Far’ features are much-loved by our readers and we take pride in producing interesting and varied stories. The idea stemmed from The Observer’s ‘This Much I Know’ feature. I’ve always enjoyed these articles, as they tend to supply little nuggets of opinion and wisdom. Obviously, The Observer’s interviews tend to be with household names. I wanted to tell the fascinating stories of local people - that we don’t know much about - whilst combining those same little nuggets within each feature. I don’t want the articles ever to read as ‘I did this, then I did that’ as I like an emotional voice to come through. I think we achieve that more often than not. For me, WW2 bomber navigator Ron Warburton (October’s AAH) by-passing his memories of bombing a German city with the words “And then there was Dresden...ooh, Dresden” needed nothing else adding.. I’m sure that the vast majority of people we interview are really pleased that they have done it, and it’s allowed us to meet fascinating local characters like Andrew Bernardi (pictured with his Stradivarius) as well as ordinary people who have done extraordinary things at war. However, my favourite interview this year was with Matt Charman, the former Forest boy who is now a script writer in huge demand in Hollywood. Already, his is an incredible story!

AAH reported on the Horsham Battle of the Bands competition, held in the Human Nature Garden in Horsham Park. The main competition which is now well-supported by separate acoustic and covers nights - was won by Team New Band from Brighton.

Andrew Bernardi

As Piggate died down, we needed another political figure to mock as it became increasingly easy and acceptable to do so. So the British media gave air time to the views of Donald Trump as he launched into amusing, if often illogical, rants against everyone from Prisoners of War, to Asians, to Rosie O’ Donnell. As the year closed out, he upped the ante as Mexicans and Muslims were caught in the crossfire. Closer to home, we had Jeremy Corbyn, the new leader of old Labour to laugh at. “Nice jumper!” mocked Ian Hislop on Have I Got News For You, when shown a photo of Corbyn wearing a plain jumper. Yeah, putting the political boot in by dissing wool! However, soon some people realised that they’d always wanted more ordinary people at the higher echelons of British politics, so perhaps this bike-riding tramp-like figure was a welcome change. Meanwhile, here in Horsham...

Ron Warburton

Match of the Day commentator Steve Wilson, who lives in Billingshurst, published a book, MOTD 365, based on his favourite memories from 25 years of Premier League football.

REVIEW OF 2015

A COMPLETE VEHICLE GRAPHICS SERVICE

Toby’s Picks

WABI, HORSHAM: I have photographed Wabi before as I was commissioned to shoot all of their menu items. As you can imagine, the food is very photogenic and I particularly like the images with the dry ice poured under the wooden presentation racks displaying the sushi rolls.

“

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AAH featured the work of the CoCo’s Foundation, which is making a huge difference to lives in South Africa. The Foundation was founded in 2009 when Ed Purdew approached his friend and employer Chris Connors, director of Coco’s hair salons. Ed said he wanted to help children in Africa. Chris agreed to help him, and since that day the Foundation has gone on to have a dramatic impact on the lives of many people in Africa and the UK.

Bob Piper of Southwater received France’s highest honour for his role in liberating the country in the Second World War. The veteran received the Légion d’honneur as he was amongst the British troops involved in the D-Day landings. His medal was sent in the post, after President François Hollande pledged to honour all those British veterans who helped liberate France.

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You can read some of AAH’s Business features online at www.aahorsham.co.uk

BEST NEWS FOR GROWNUPS 2015

Toby’s Picks OPENING OF JOHN LEWIS AND WAITROSE, HORSHAM: The John Lewis opening was a monumental occasion for Horsham and we were lucky to have a show around the building with John Lewis at Home branch manager Nigel Davis just moments before the public were let loose in the new store. I managed to take a good variety of images taken before the official ribbon cutting and the onslaught of customers into the store. Several of the images shown here were not published in our original report in July’s edition of AAH as there were many to choose from!

“

REVIEW OF 2015 BUSINESS FEATURES

sually, when it comes to our business features, we seek out independents that offer a unique service to the people of the district. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good way of introducing readers to people and products that they may not otherwise know about. For example, we wrote about Garlic Wood Farm in Steyning, which sells 100% organic beef direct from the Knepp estate, and The Virtual Flight Centre in Coolham, where the public can fly in a real Boeing 737 cockpit, complete with cabin section! A favourite feature of ours was at Leathermark69, where Mark Peckham creates tooled leather, primarily for custom-made motorbike enthusiasts. However, the biggest business event of the year was the opening of John Lewis at Home and a new Waitrose store in Horsham. Lengthy queues formed outside as townsfolk awaited the grand opening of the 11th John Lewis at Home store, taking up 43,000 square foot of a building co-owned with Waitrose. Once the ribbon-cutting formalities had been carried out, many shoppers quickly made their way to the cafe, suggesting that they had simply wanted to say that they were there on

opening day. One to tell the grandchildren about? One elderly curmudgeon, it is alleged, loudly declared John Lewis goods as â&#x20AC;&#x153;overpriced sentimentality for mums in Range Roversâ&#x20AC;? and was swiftly banished to the moon. The Horsham store boasts the first John Lewis Home Hub, a dedicated area bringing together all of John Lewisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;home design services, and showcasing the retailerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home interior products through a display of 11 rooms. Meanwhile, the new Waitrose is more than twice the size of the old store in Piries Place, which closed its doors in July, the day before the new one opened. New concepts include a juice bar, wine and beer bar, a bakery and an extensive wine department. Other features include a new eat-in area where customers will be able to enjoy tapas, deli platters and freshly baked goods. After six months, the new stores are proving extremely popular. However, it may be that other parts of the town do not enjoy much radiated glow from John Lewis until the pedestrianised areas linking it to Bishopric are made safer and more visually appealing.

You can read our original feature on Leathermark69 at www.aahorsham.co.uk

34 NOVEMBER 2015 During November, we didn’t really talk about the things we usually talk about. Like why they still make paper poppies that are impossible to keep on, what might be the ‘new craze’ at Christmas, or can a bonfire effigy really be offensive to a particular group of people. That was because terrorists launched three attacks in Paris, killing 129 people. Not only was it close to home, but the victims were doing things that we might do - they were at a rock concert, or watching a football match, or just eating at a restaurant.The subsequent show of definace and solidarity was inevitable and admirable, but what happened in Paris changed things. Meanwhile, here in Horsham...

Toby’s Picks

“

MARK PECKHAM, LEATHERMARK69, COOLHAM: I had good fun photographing Mark and his amazing Harley Davidson. I have been a biker all my life, so this was a pleasure to shoot. I used Mark's leather workshop as the background and shot from a low vantage point to include the Confederate flag within the scene, as it worked well with the bike, for obvious reasons!

“

Sussex Cricket confirmed that Horsham Festival of Cricket will not go ahead in 2016, as it is ‘financially unviable without third party support.’ A club statement said that the ‘festival has received limited support from the local business community in recent years’ and coupled with ‘a downturn in corporate hospitality’ had made staging the match unfeasible.

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of advanced techniques. All sessions include refreshments and are held in our friendly practice in Foundry Lane. Workshops: Fri 29 Jan at 9.30am or Wed 10 Feb at 5pm. Cost: £50 (introductory rate) Mindfulness course: 6 week course from 9.30am on Friday 26 February. Cost £150

o you want to greet 2016 with more positivity and effectiveness, learning how to manage your day to day pressures in a relaxed and positive way? How about learning Mindfulness? It has been shown to improve the well-being of people wanting to optimise their emotional health. We know that if we feel tired, stressed or burdened, our physical wellbeing is at risk, predisposing us to injury or illness. Similarly, physical problems can be emotionally distressing and how we manage that stress has a direct impact on both the quality and speed of our recovery. Talking Therapies can help people better manage these emotions and their results. It has therefore been our ambition to add Talking Therapies to our physical therapy services at Cranfold, but we only wanted to recruit highly qualified and experienced practitioners. We are therefore delighted to be able to introduce:

CBT Therapist Julia Heathcote (Dip COT, BABCP accredited Cognitive Behaviour Psychotherapist)

Clinical Psychologist Dr Rosie Odhuba (BA. (Hons) D. ClinPsy)

Rosie is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 15 years’ experience working in both the NHS and private clinics, and is chartered with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and registered with the HCPC (health & care professions council). She has extensive training in CBT, Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Rosie uses Mindfulness, among other approaches for emotional difficulties such as depression, stress, panic disorder and relationship issues. She describes Mindfulness as a simple practise of present-moment awareness, in the form of meditation and other strategies. It can allow us to respond more skilfully to life’s challenges (including bad habits such as comfort eating/ smoking etc), but while it is a simple concept it requires effort and practise to learn. She added: “It is particularly useful for issues

such as depression, anxiety or low self-esteem and improves sleep and concentration levels. It is also helpful in managing long term health issues such as pain”. Rosie will be providing two options for Mindfulness: a two-hour workshop for those wanting to learn more about mindfulness; learning and practising a variety of techniques and 6 week Mindfulness courses (1 and 1/2 hour sessions each week) which provide weekly support, further teaching and practise

Julia is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and Occupational Therapist with over 25 years experience in the NHS and privately, working with adults. Julia has worked with people with a wide range of concerns including low mood, anxiety, feeling stressed, difficulty sleeping, as well as with people who have more severe problems which are impacting their day to day life. “Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help you manage your problems by understanding the links between the way you think and feel and what you then do as a consequence. ‘When we feel stressed and upset we all have a tendency to interpret our experiences more negatively,” added Julia. “This can cause us to withdraw, struggle with our relationships and develop other unhelpful coping strategies. “The aim of the therapy is to collaboratively identify where people would like to make a change in their lives, and give people the skills to manage those negative patterns.”

Julia will be giving a free talk to learn more about CBT where there will be an opportunity to ask any questions in Cranfold, Foundry Lane on Friday 5 Feb at 10am. Appointments are available with Julia on Fridays: £75 for 50 mins

For further information or to book, please call 01403 721050 www.cranfoldphysio.co.uk

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REVIEW OF 2015

Over 350 runners put on their Santa suits and hats to take part in the St Catherine's Hospice Santa Run around Horsham Park. The fundraisers completed a 2km route twice around the park before being rewarded with a medal and mince pie. AAH featured Philippa Crundwell, a 17year-old Collyer’s student who has seen her book, Seventy Beats, published by King’s England Press. The book has been well-received by several best-selling authors and Philippa was busy promoting the book in the run-up to Christmas.

DECEMBER 2015 Who was the bright spark that decided to give storms names? In days gone by, a storm was a storm some would knock a fence over, whilst others might break your cheap umbrella. Now storms have names, they all take personal pride in their devastation. Storm Desmond brought severe gales to southern Scotland the north of England, bringing rainfall breaking all previous UK records. Then Storm Eva came along and triggered 100 flood alerts. It was getting a bit out of hand, until Storm Frank came along and like the good old days of storms without names - turned out to be an anti-climax. We’d save a lot of money on flood defences if we simply took naming rights back from our storms. Meanwhile, here in Horsham... We featured Horsham Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society’s (HAODS) production of White Christmas, in which the cast produced some of the most challenging tap dancing routines in the Society’s history! Horsham historian Gary Cooper, marked the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two with the publication of a monumental book, Horsham’s Heroes of World War II. The book is a true monument to the servicemen and women of Horsham who died during 1939- 1945. It includes photographs and short biographical accounts of those who died. Will Palmer won the prestigious McLaren Autosport BRDC Award (MABA) , after winning the 2015 BRDC Formula 4 championship. It’s been a great year for the Southwater family, as Will’s older brother Jolyon (pictured with Will) competed in free practice sessions for the Lotus F1 team. Jolyon has been promoted to race driver for the team, which has since been taken over by Renault, during the 2016 F1 season.

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Free Customer Parking at our Southwater Centre t our Care Equipment Centre in Southwater, you can see and test an extensive range of mobility scooters, rollaters, recliner chairs, electric beds and home care products. It’s a chance to discover exactly what is available in the marketplace today, and learn useful information and product guidance from our personable, fullytrained sales consultants. Paul Andrews, Showroom Manager at NHG, said: “It’s the perfect place to come to as there is no problem with parking, we have large electric doors at the entrance, and once you are in here you can browse and try out all of the products.

Where to Find Us... From the Hop Oast roundabout, follow Worthing Road to Southwater. Take the first left on to Blakes Farm Road, then right on to Wilberforce Way at the next roundabout. We are located at the end of the straight on the right hand side.

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You can read some of AAH’s Music features online at www.aahorsham.co.uk

38 2016 Diary Dates SPORT RELIEF 18 - 20 March

Battle of the Bands Over 1,000 running, swimming and cycling events will be held up and down the country to raise funds for good causes. www.sportrelief.com

HORSHAM PIAZZA ITALIA 25, 26 and 28 March

Team New Band

The biggest and best free to attend Easter event in the South is back with more cars, food and family fun. www.horshampiazzaitalia.co.uk

BROADWOOD DAY OF DANCE Sunday 7 May Join the Broadwood Morris Men and guests for the annual Day of Dance around Horsham Town Centre http://www.broadwoodmorris.info

HORSHAM RACE FOR LIFE Sunday 5 June The 5km Race for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK starts at 11am in Horsham Park. There’s an earlyentry discount online. http://raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org

Slinfold Concert Band

MUSIC FEATURES

ur music features are tricky to put together, as often we cannot attend on concert night as the presence of a photographer is too intrusive. So we’ve been to an awful lot of rehearsals! This year, we’ve featured old hand Willie Austen, percussion guitarist Mark Ben Wilson and promising pop/folk band Route 42. We also watched the Battle of the Bands final in Horsham’s Human Nature Garden, with new faces well known on the local music circuit providing the popular and long-running competition with fresh ideas. Team New Band were deserving winners, although once again the acoustic competition (won by Jodie Munday) attracted just as many entrants and arguably a bigger crowd, reflecting current trends. AAH also featured the likes of Classical Folk, and Slinfold Concert Band, and carried an extensive interiew with Andrew Bernardi, organiser of the Shipley Arts Festival. Do keep an eye on the festival website for details of the 2016 programme, as there are some real gems in there. The mooted return of the Barns Green Music Festival was postponed, but Rudgwick again provided a full festival programme and the Horsham Garden Music Festival catered for all manner of musical fancies. Meanwhile, in the town centre, some things never change; Danny the Busker still seems to be playing Hey Jude every other song, unless

I’ve been very unfortunate with my timing! We asked a few other musicians and event organisers about their favourite events of the year... Sylvia Akagi, Classical Folk The local gig I enjoyed most in 2015 was The Full Shanty at Horsham Folk Club in Denne Road. They are a shanty (a capella) band, who sing with gusto, but have lovely harmonies and exude an infectious humour. Willie Austen, Musician My favourite event was Rudgwick Music Festival, which is held every August. It is a great event with lots of bands, old and new, playing until late. The organisers put on a fantastic show, all in aid of charity. Gary Holder, Live music event organiser My 2015 highlights would be any one of the classical concerts staged by Andrew Bernardi for the Shipley Arts Festival. I went to several, and all showcased high quality musicianship. Nick Mowat, General Manager, The Capitol In terms of The Capitol programme, I’d say my favourite show was Wisdom of a Fool, written and performed by Jack Lane. An uncanny portrayal of the incomparable Norman Wisdom in a show with a really big heart. Outside of The Capitol, The Last Tango with Vincent Simone and Flavia Caccia at The Theatre

REVIEW OF 2015

2016 Diary Dates SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOW 11 - 13 June Throws the spotlight on the best of agriculture, equestrianism, horticulture, food and drink, country crafts and much more.

Route 42

www.seas.org.uk

HORSHAM OPEN STUDIOS 11, 12, 18, 19 June Many local artists and makers will showcase their original artwork as well as giving free talks and workshops. www.horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk

ROCK ‘N’ HORSE POWER Saturday 18 June

Classical Folk

Royal, Norwich, was beautifully performed and my favourite concert was Neil Finn at the Bush. Andrew Bernardi, Organiser of the Shipley Arts Festival We have had a wonderful year performing to 200,000 people in the UK and we felt Jonathan and Caroline Lucas’ High Sherrif’s Concert for St Catherine’s Hospice was our favourite 2015 Sussex Concert. The opportunity to play with some of the UK’s finest musicians in our home county was very special. You can hear Bernardi Music Group performing excerpts from this concert (which raised over £30,000 for St Catherine’s Hospice) on YouTube. Jamie ‘Stan’ Stanley, Battle of the Bands Committee I'm biased as I helped organise it, but I'd have to say my favourite event was the acoustic final of BOTB. There were 11 excellent acts, all very different, but winner Jodie Munday stole the show right at the end. Her comedy songs about her friends and family had everyone laughing, but débuting her new song 'Grandma' in front of her was a magic moment. Best local gig of the year for me! Christopher Youngman, Slinfold

Concert Band My favourite show, from the band’s perspective, was Fanfare for Springwith St. Mary’s Choir (and soloists) in St. Mary’s Church, Horsham. The Hallelujah Chorus was the climax to the first half, and the audience enjoyed their interval refreshments with Handel’s music still resonating through the church. ‘You must do this again’ was the reaction of those present, and in April 2016 the Choir and the Band are planning to do exactly that.’

2015 AAH Office Favourite Songs

Hold On ALABAMA SHAKES Should Have Known Better SUFJAN STEVENS Can’t Feel My Face THE WEEKND Coming Home LEON BRIDGES Two to Birkenhead BILLY RYDER-JONES Mainline TELEMAN Lousy Connection EZRA FURMAN Fake ID RAT BOY

Prostate Cancer UK’s flagship music event is put on by Kenney Jones and his wife Jayne at Hurtwood Park polo Club. www.hurtwoodparkpolo.co.uk

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A Question of Cost W

hat with Christmas Eve being the most popular day of the year to ‘pop the question’, we saw many men in store in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Impressively, more men than ever seemed to have a good understanding of what they wanted the engagement ring to look like. However, there is still a question mark over how much money should be spent, as somehow it’s become an accepted rule of thumb that an engagement ring should cost roughly one month’s salary.

Of course, it is a little detrimental to any marriage proposal to be judged on monetary values alone. But it is fascinating to discover where this ‘one month’s salary’ concept comes from. It probably won’t surprise you to know that it has little to do with the course of true love, but is in fact a clever marketing ploy by the world’s largest diamond company. The tradition of giving an engagement ring actually goes back centuries. Roman wives wore rings attached to small keys, indicating their husbands' ownership, and in 1477 an Austrian Archduke commissioned the first diamond engagement ring. However, the idea of buying a diamond engagement ring for anyone other than those of nobility is a more recent tradition.

In Japan, De Beers managed to convince men that three months’ salary should be spent on an engagement ring! During the Great Depression of the 1930’s, the De Beers diamond cartel, which controlled 60% of the world’s rough cut diamonds, saw a slump in sales. They launched a campaign to associate diamonds with engagement rings, and in doing so changed the jewellery world forever. In De Beers’ campaign, it suggested that

one month's salary was how much should be spent on a ring. In the 1980s, this became two months. One advert asked the question ‘How can you make two months' salary last forever?’ It could be worse – in Japan, De Beers managed to convince men that three months’ salary should be spent on an engagement ring! So do we spend that much in the UK? In the UK, Liverpool Victoria did some research in 2011 which claimed that the average engagement ring cost £1,231, which was then the equivalent of three weeks' pay. As well as the cost of the ring, De Beers has also successfully linked the diamond to the concept of an engagement ring, defined by the tagline ‘A Diamond is forever.’ The idea is now totally embedded in the Western mind set. Today, a diamond's purity and sparkle have become symbols of a man's commitment to a woman. So whilst other stones are available, it is that sparkle, and the versatility of diamonds, that has ensured that diamonds still stand the test of time… So if you’re preparing to pop the question, pop in and see us in the Carfax!

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By Dominic Sakakini

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01403 250200

45 Carfax, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1EQ

REVIEW OF 2015 The New Link Road

2016 Diary Dates KIDSTRI HORSHAM TRIATHLON Sunday 19 June Triathlons for all ages will be held at The Pavilions Leisure Centre and Horsham Park. It’s great fun, especially for novices http://www.hedgehogtri-events.co.uk

FESTIVAL OF SPEED 23 - 26 June

Making Inroads Infrastructure often struggled to keep up with the rapid rate of development in Horsham

otorists were just getting used to cutting across that rather awkward new roundabout at Broadbridge Heath, on which ‘straight ahead’ was the only option to anything other than construction site traffic. But, when the A264 link road near Broadbridge Heath was suddenly opened on 17 December, it required a little more lane discipline! The one kilometre link road, connecting the A24 junction to the Newbridge Nurseries roundabout on the A264 Five Oaks Road, cost approximately £4.5million and has been funded by Countryside Properties, who are developing the Wickhurst Green estate (to which the new link road also provides access to). John O’Brien, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This new road will ease pressure on Broadbridge Heath. It will reduce some of the rush hour traffic and allow traffic to get on the A24 easier. “I think one of the key things when there is a demand for housing is to have appropriate infrastructure in place, which thankfully we

have here now.” The A264 Link Road is part of an infrastructure package designed to cope with 2,000 new homes south of Broadbridge Heath and west of Horsham. At the moment, the Wickhurst Green development, coupled with homes being built simultaneously by Berkeley at the Highwood estate off Hills Farm Lane, has led to a great deal of frustration for motorists. Lengthy queues have been a regular occurrence

“One of the key things when there is a demand for housing is to have appropriate infrastructure in place.”

Hundreds of the world’s fastest and most exciting motor racing cars and bikes will take to the track at Goodwood www.goodwood.com

HORSHAM GARDEN MUSIC FEST 16, 17, 23, 24 July The event will be held at Horsham's Human Nature Garden and will feature local performers along with local traders. facebook.com/horshamgardenmusicfestival

LOXWOOD JOUST 6, 7, 13 & 14 August Step back in time with jousting, Christmas banquets, mediaeval music and an exciting children’s kingdom. www.loxwoodjoust.co.uk

HORSHAM BIG NIBBLE 3 - 4 September The local food and drink event launches the district-wide Food and Drink Festival which includes the Beer Festival. www.horshamlocalproduce.co.uk

GOODWOOD REVIVAL 9 - 11 September The three-day festival features racing cars and motorcycles that might have competed during the circuit's original period. www.goodwood.com

PLOUGHING MATCH & SHOW Saturday 17 September West Grinstead & District Ploughing & Agricultural Society’s ploughing match and show is held at Aglands Farm, Cowfold. www.westgrinsteadploughing.co.uk

42 BARNS GREEN HALF MARATHON Sunday 25 September The Half Marathon is run on closed roads, passing through Christ’s Hospital, where the school’s famous band will be playing. www.barnsgreen-half.org.uk

HORSHAM FIREWORKS Saturday 29 October The popular fireworks display will be held at Horsham Sports Club on Cricketfield Road, Horsham. www.horshamsportsclub.com

St Irvyne’s even before construction began at the two developments, but single-lane carriageways have significantly increased problems. Andrew Carrington, managing director of strategic lands at Countryside Properties, said: “We are delighted to be opening the A264 link road considerably earlier than our planning obligations require. “This is great news for the travelling public and local community who’ve been especially patient during these works.”

www.sumnersponds.co.uk

THE CAFÉ BY THE LAKE Open all year round and open to all! Choose from a delicious range of seasonal dishes or an enticing selection of specials.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, cream teas and cakes or an evening meal in beautiful surroundings beside the lake. Our fully licenced bar offers a wide range of wines, beers and spirits. Open for evening meals and drinks from the bar until 10.30pm Tuesday to Sunday. All are welcome!

Enjoy regular live acoustic music in a gorgeous setting, plus extra special events including our monthly quiz! Please check the website and Facebook for all upcoming events. Opening Hours throughout the year Mondays 8am – 5pm; Tuesday – Sunday 8am – 10.30pm. Food Service Monday 8am – 3pm; Tuesday – Sunday 8am – 3pm/6pm – 9pm

The County Council will now prioritise the remaining highway improvements to come from the funding secured in association with these developments. These include traffic calming schemes for Broadbridge Heath and Warnham and further A24 junction improvements.

SWIFT BUILDING Meanwhile, development of the Wickhurst Green site is progressing at a rapid pace, particularly in the part of the estate being developed by Bovis. On the opposite side of the new link road, the St Irvyne’s development has received a number of top awards. It was named Development of the Year at the Sunday Times British Homes Awards 2015, in the 26 - 100 homes category. This award was backed up by St Irvyne’s winning a Landscape Design silver award at the What House? Awards 2015.

I hope you have enjoyed our review of the year. If you want to catch up on any old editions of AAH do visit the Archive Editions page of our website at www.aahorsham.co.uk

Tel: 01403 732539 / 732734 Email: info@sumnersponds.co.uk or cafe@sumnerponds.co.uk

Sumners Ponds, Chapel Road, Barns Green, RH13 0PR

REPORTS: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

Meet the Head

Neil Jones, his wife Christina and childre en Delphi and Joah (and Wa affle the dog).

What is the pro o oudest moment of your care eer so far? f

How has education changed during your y career?

What is a good education?

What makes you â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;tickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;?

We live in a world of social media, can you sum up your school in 140 characters? What has been has been your biggest challlenge?

Fantastic New Furniture Department Now Open Our independent bed centre benefits from a customer car park, which is accessed off Medwin Way, 100m before the entrance to Swan Walk Car Park

Medwin Walk, Horsham RH12 1AG

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Shots of our New 4 Floor Horsham Showroom!

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licking through the Artisan Patisserie Facebook page, I was surprised to read that several customers still refer to it as ‘Horsham’s best kept secret.’ Four years ago, the patisserie and tea rooms opened and immediately appeared to be a perfect fit for the town with a flamboyant combination of bold, contemporary styling in a mock Tudor building in the heart of historic Horsham. Yet still, every day new people are discovering Artisan for the first time. There are those who have long been frequenting the Market Square patisserie and been impressed by the cakes, the coffee, the art, the décor, the waiter service, or a combination of all of those aspects. Regulars possess a sense of ownership at Artisan Patisserie, like a teenager who bought the debut single by a band that later sell out stadiums! With these customers in mind, owners Simon and Steven have recently extensively refurbished the patisserie and tea rooms. Simon said: “There was no urgency behind it; we just thought that the appearance was starting to look a little tired. It pays to refresh every few years as you need to reinvest

into your business. “You have to stay on top of the game as you can’t take success for granted, especially in Horsham where is there is so much competition. “We've had new timber-structured counters fitted upstairs and downstairs, with new seating too. We noticed that the Tolix chairs that we initially had here were becoming very popular all around town so we decided to replace them with Eames chairs, which are another classic design. “Upstairs, we have fitted banquet seating, upholstered by Martha’s Barn in Horsham, and that has given us a different look which has been well received by our customers.” Artisan Patisserie and tea rooms now offers a wider selection of food (including panini sandwiches) whilst a new three group Conti coffee machine provides faster service during busy times. The coffee served is a unique hand-roasted blend created for the patisserie by Easy Jose Coffee, which trades directly with farmers at two plantations in Brazil and Indonesia. Customers can also enjoy Jeeves and Jericho tea with flavours including Gunpowder, China Jasmine, African

FOOD AND DRINK

Dale Jannels

Director, AToM Ltd TEL: 01403 272625

www.atomltd.co.uk If you are currently in the process of changing your mortgage, has your current provider, adviser, arranger advised you of the regulatory changes that are due to be implemented shortly? This is especially important if you are looking at buying a new build property that may not be completed until after March 2016.

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Rooibos, Red Berry Burst, Blackcurrant Pop, Turkish Chunky Apple, Breakfast Tea, Mojito Mint and The Girlie Grey. The patisserie food (made to order with fresh deliveries every morning) includes handmade pies, quiches, lemon meringue and iced Bakewell tarts.

OWNERS ARE BACK!

Artisan Patisserie in Market Square, Horsham

Co-owners Simon and Steven have been overseeing the changes having recently returned to work in Horsham, where they also live, following the successful launch of a second affiliated business called Reformation, an artisan coffee and sandwich bar. “Reformation is similar to Artisan patisserie, although in London we offer more of a takeaway service as it suits city life,” says Simon. “In Horsham, we operate a waiter service, which makes us different from the rest. However, the difficulty we occasionally have is that people think we are a restaurant! “But that’s not the case. We are a tea room and a patisserie with a level of service you will not find at the national chains. “As a result, we do have Artisan devotees who appreciate the lengths we go to with our coffee and that we

However, if you are arranging your mortgage today and on current lender structures, come March 22, your mortgage offer may be null and void. Thus between now and 21 March, the lender should send you another mortgage offer which will be compliant with the new regulations. This new offer also introduces an obligation on lenders to give customers the right to seven days of reflection (a cooling off period). These are just two examples of a number of new regulations that are coming into effect and that you should be aware of. More news will follow on this. Of course, as with the last regulatory changes (Mortgage Market review – April 2014) you can be certain that the national press will publicise all you need to know, just a week before the regulations hit the market! We are starting to see some lenders advising their plans for the year ahead. Many lenders have increased targets and AToM has been in contact with a number who are looking to launch or re-launch (having been dormant) during the coming months. The majority of industry pundits, including myself, don't believe rates will now change until late 2016, or early 2017. So with a slightly quieter market, competition, especially rates, should be fierce and this can only be good news for the end consumer.

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Customers know that if we take pride in our appearance, it will reflect in everything else.”

Above: Upstairs at Artisan Patisserie in Market Square Below: One of the new Conti coffee machines

serve hand-made, locally-sourced food in our patisserie. “However, we are still finding that more people are discovering us for the first time, as we are just that little bit off the beaten track in Market Square. “Our customers seem to be pleased that Steven and I are back in the shop now and working here during the week. They also appreciate the effort in the appearance of the shop and our staff. Customers know that if we take pride in our appearance, it will reflect in everything else.”

ARTISTIC PRIDE The owners also take great pride in the art displayed. Steven himself has a large, colourful contemporary painting displayed, but in the main Artisan Patisserie’s décor is defined by fascinating and subtly risqué contemporary prints by Lidia de Pedro.

Amazingly, the renowned Spanish artist has stated that she receives as many enquiries from Artisan Patisserie as she does from any other exhibitions and galleries featuring her striking work. “It shows that we take great pride in every aspect of the shop. I hope that people appreciate all of the changes that we have made as it shows that we care and are prepared to invest in order to constantly evolve and improve.”

Artisan Patisserie can be found at 4 Market Square, Horsham, or call 01403 274142

REPORT: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

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Huge Variety Makes for Nifty

ART W

hen I first walked into the Nifty Gallery in Storrington High Street, I was struck by the vast variety of art displayed. First to grab my attention was the abstract paintings of fields of cows or sheep, as well as the bright colours in pictures of geometric houses. Then I saw some beautiful landscapes, inspired by the coastal

towns and Sussex countryside, including the wonderfully thick textures in a painting of the Seven Sisters. This artwork was in total contrast to several playful, almost childishly-retro paintings of food and drink. With further exploration, we came across several botanically-inspired paintings of passerines but with bold, brash backdrops, and

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hypnotising canvases depicting a swirling shoal of fish. I wondered which artists were exhibiting, and whether or not any were from the Horsham District and possibly up for a feature in AAH, when I was approached by the manager. With his ‘goatie’ beard and continental casualness, he couldn’t have looked more French. But he’s not. He’s called Nigel. More remarkably, all of the work on display at Nifty Gallery came from his own brush. When I expressed surprise at this

revelation, Nigel Emery responded in a way that suggests my reaction was typical of new customers. He said: “Someone once said of me, ‘Nigel Emery doesn't really know what he is as an artist.’ “I thought about that comment for a long time, analysing what they meant. In the end, I came to the conclusion that I'm a different person every day, as we all are. “Sometimes, I wake up and feel happy, and other days I wake up and feel tired. Every day, I have thousands of ideas, like we all do. “The only difference between me and a lot of other artists is that I

ART

Nigel Emery works on one of his swirling fishes at The Nifty Gallery

“People are surprised that all the work is by one person, but there is a consistency in the colour and life of the work.” physically try and put those different ideas on to a canvas. “Life is a rich tapestry of many things and I want to explore as many as I can. I don't want to be limited to solely painting abstract seascapes. “People are surprised that all the work is by one person, but I still think there is a consistency in the colour, light and life of the work.”

CITY STICKERS Whilst there are numerous artistic styles evident in Nigel’s body of work, from impressionism to pop art, his career as an artist took off thanks primarily to a basic concept of mixed media collage. His bright, colourful depictions of cities - including New York, Havana, London and Brighton – are created

through a combination of photos, meticulously stuck in place with geographical accuracy, as well as overlays of paint. It was an idea that Nigel explored whilst at his first gallery on Brighton seafront, and one he has revisited recently whilst based in the South Downs village of Storrington. “Back in the early 1990’s, I worked at a patisserie in Hove, but waking up at 3:30am didn't really suit me,” said Nigel. “In those days, the baking industry was in decline as hot bread shops were opening in supermarkets, and it was difficult to find work. I needed a change anyway, so I decided to stop working and take up full time painting. “One day, I had a moment of inspiration. I sat down, cut up some photographs and assembled them

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MORE ART FEATURES AT www.aahorsham.co.uk

52 The shop level at The Nifty Gallery, showing off some of the range of original paintings and prints by Nigel Emery.

in a collage form to create a picture. I sat back and thought ‘that is exactly what I hoped to achieve.’ I didn't realise at the time, but that afternoon's work would lead to a successful period for me in collage paintings. “I started travelling all round the world, collecting rubbish off the floor, flyers, business cards, anything that caught my eye. Then I would come back and paint a series of paintings of that area, be it New York, London or India. “After a few years, in 1995 I opened a gallery on Brighton seafront called Flotsam & Jetsam. I was one of five children and that is what my mother used to call us! “This was in the days before Brighton council invested in refurbishing the seafront, so it was typically dropout hippie types opening up studios in tiny units

that were cheap to run. They were great days!” For the best part of a decade, Nigel created his mixed media collages. But he then decided to develop his painting skills. Recently, 20 years after shelving his collage range, Nigel has decided to go back to his roots and make some more. “I love the naivety in them,” he said. “We all have a child in us, which we never really lose, and I loved going back to this old idea. “I went up to London and took about 1,000 photographs, but when I started assembling them into a picture, I found that I didn’t have enough! We ended up going back, hopping on sightseeing buses and Thames cruises and taking about 3,000 photos, then presenting them in a very naive way.

ART

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of people really relate to that watery world of the swirling fish paintings. The work is very restful.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything is there on the work, and every picture is in the right location, which is difficult to do. When you go to London, you don't really build up a sense of where famous landmarks are in relation to others, so thank heavens for Google Earth!â&#x20AC;?

RURAL ABSTRACTS Whilst the collage work may bookend Nigelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic journey, the body of work in between is fascinating for its sheer variety. Moving from Brighton to Storrington has also had an influence, with the South Downs featuring heavily in a number of wonderfully colourful abstract paintings. Nigel has been running Nifty Gallery in Storrington for seven years, having chosen the village purely on the basis that it was within half an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive of Brighton and happened to have the right size unit available for the right price at the right time.

He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we first turned up in the village, people I know said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What are you doing?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; But Storrington has changed, with some nice cafes and interesting shops, and not just old menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoe shops. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since moving to the countryside, I have done a lot of geometric cows and sheep. I used to create a lot of square houses incorporating the sea, but when I came to the countryside, I saw that a field of cows can also appear to be quite square. So the animals and the fields became abstract shapes and works just as well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another theme I visit regularly is my spiral fish paintings, which I have been doing for about 15 years. A lot of people really relate to that watery world and the piece is very restful. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the years, I've improved my technique with this particular painting. It gives off a pearlescent scene, so they are slightly sculptural as it does change as you walk around it. The idea hasn't changed much, but oddly I've never

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54 fallen out of love with the spiralling fish. “I do tend to see things in abstract quite clearly. I struggle more with figurative work as I have to pay more attention to what I'm doing, but with abstract it doesn't need to be too serious. You can paint for the joy of it. “I believe that, if somebody is showing real enthusiasm for what they are doing, then it can never be seen as selling out. If people are showing enthusiasm for the art you are producing and are willing to pay for it, then that does wonders for your enthusiasm.”

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As well as exhibiting in the south of England – including The Jeremy Sanders Gallery in Eton, 101 Gallery in Devon, St Raphael Gallery in Piccadilly and Clear and Sound in Brighton – Nigel has successfully exhibited in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Nigel is now well settled in Storrington, living above the shop with colourful paintings of Havana and Manhattan decorating his living room. But it may be that his future lies in sunnier climes. Nigel said: “It’s important to remember that the purpose of a painting it to enhance a living space. That is what people are looking for; something up that they can react with every day in their home. That has not changed, but the way people buy art has changed. “When I first started out, there was no digital technology. Now, the internet has changed how we shop, as you can be in a field in the middle of nowhere and look at my gallery and buy art. So we see a lot of people coming into the Gallery, looking but not buying anything. Then they will usually go home, have a think and buy it online! “It means we don’t sell much here, but I couldn’t have the internet sales without having the gallery space. I’ve always needed somewhere my work can be accessed by the public.” “Storrington has been good for me, but there comes a point when things have to change. I have thought about setting up a studio in the Mediterranean, as every now and again, we all need re-potting and then you can grow.”

You can visit Nigel’s website, and view some of his fascinating art, on his website at www.nigelemery.com or visit the shop at 48 High Street, Storrington, RH20 4DU.

REPORT: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

KEEPERS OF THE

FAMILY TR

I We visit Keeper’s Kennels, a family run business in Lower Beeding which recently expanded its services...

do have a dog, a cocker spaniel. He’s called Otis, as when we first saw him, he was sitting on a wooden platform overlooking an inlet to the sea, watching ships roll in. Then he watched them roll away again... Otis is not left alone at home too often and enjoys walks twice a day, but when it comes to organising a family holiday, having a dog does limit your options. Like many families, we must either find a way of taking the dog with us, or try to convince a relative or friend that it would be good for them to look after a pet for a week! The third option is to entrust your dog with a local kennels, which is something that is not done lightly for most dog owners. One of the most successful kennels in the Horsham District is Keeper’s Kennels in Lower Beeding. It’s so called as it was once the home of the keeper of the Leonardslee gardens. The famed gardens, once one of the country’s most

spectacular landscaped gardens, sits next to the kennels. Indeed, three old kennels used by the gundogs of the historic estate are still on site. However, they are seldom used as new facilities have been constructed over the years. Keeper’s Kennels has also recently expanded its services to meet the needs of modern pet owners, with the family business now offering trained grooming and dog walking services to customers.

Kennels were established on the site long before the arrival of Lisa Dunlop and her family in 2006. But since the arrival of the Dunlops, with Lisa joined by her daughters Billie and Alix, Keeper’s Kennels has seen steady growth. Lisa attributes success down to the family’s general love of dogs rather than experience, as she arrived having never worked at a kennels

BUSINESS

Lisa and Alix Dunlop at Keeper’s Kennels

before! “I wanted to be able to buy a kennels because I just love animals,” said Lisa. “I had not even been to another kennels in my life at the time we came here. It was something that I wanted to do, as we have always had dogs in the family. “We came here in the summer of 2006, moving from Handcross. The kennels had been established here for quite some time, and a long time ago was also the kennels for Leonardslee. It is nice to have that little bit of history here. “When we first moved here, we had 20 good kennels that were ready to use, but initially we were not that busy. The previous owner had been winding down a little bit and relied on a few loyal customers. “I worked with my mum for the best part of two years, as my daughters Billie and Alix were still at school at the time, but as business picked up, it

became too much for the two of us. “It reached the point where my mum needed to give up her regular job at Seeboard and over the years the team has expanded as the business has grown through word-of-mouth.” Whilst Billie and Alix are part of the team, it is not an entirely family affair at the Kennels, as Alice Taylor, Sue Towner, Kat Mitchell and Becky Johnson are also important members of the team.

Keeper’s Kennels is still a relatively small boarding home with just 25 regular kennels. However, for those who visit, there has been considerable investment in facilities, with notable improvements to heating, roofing and with artificial

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Alice Taylor, Alix and Billie Dunlop with some elaborate garden ornaments!

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58 turf laid down for exercising the dogs. “We put the artificial grass down two years after we moved in, because we were finding the grass difficult,” said Lisa. “When it rained, you could have 50 dogs running around on a relatively small area of grass, and in the end it looked like a football pitch. The dogs would be covered in mud and we were constantly washing them all. As a result, the washing load was unbelievable! “We thought about concreting the area, but my husband John is a builder and he thought that the artificial grass was the best option. It was a worthwhile investment as it has made a massive difference to us. “It means that if a dog goes to the toilet, we can pick it up straight away, and during the winter it is fantastic because the dogs do not get dirty.”

The Dunlops have also added new insulation, making the kennels much warmer, particularly in the winter. It also helps to make it feel more like a home Alix said: “It is interesting as the dogs we see regularly – especially those who come every day – know the routine here completely. The regulars become part of the furniture and you start to know what they like and don't like. Some of them they just jump out of the car and they walk us down to the kennels!

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Keepers kennels has recently been improved with a new artifical turf

BUSINESS

“We are lucky to be based in Lower Beeding, near to so many lovely walks around South Lodge or St Leonard’s Forest

“We go down to the kennels each morning at about 8am, feed them and let them out. They then go out for a play, then we clean them and at 1pm, we play with them again. At 5pm, we feed them dinner and give them play time, before putting them to bed with a Bonio! “The regulars will be sat there waiting for their Bonio and you don't hear a peep out of them all night! “They only really start barking when the bell goes, as that means that one of them is going home, or that another dog is being dropped off, which gets them really excited.”

Alice and Alix have utilised the success of the kennels to offer grooming and dog walking services. Alice said: “Working at Keeper’s Kennels provides us with access to new customers. People do like a walk on top of the boarding, as that is what they would do if they were able to. “We are lucky to be based near to so many lovely walks. We can walk around the grounds of South Lodge Hotel or go to the public paths in St Leonard's Forest or around the nearby farm land. Very few people walk there so it is always quiet and safe for the dogs. “We thought it would be a good thing to offer and people have taken us up on it, so it has been worthwhile.” On the grooming side, Alix and Alice have both been trained, and have adapted one of the buildings to be a specialist grooming parlour. They are now grooming four or five dogs a day.

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If you’d like to find out more about Toby Phillips Photography, do visit his website at http://tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk/

Like all good kennels, Keeper’s Kennels have snacks and meals to suit every dog’s diet. Popular brands include Bakers, Wagg, Chappie, Pedigree and Bonio. But some dog owners are very particular about their pet’s diet and take their own food along to the kennels. “All of our dogs are well fed, and we have lots of little treats too for them to enjoy throughout the day, but some people like to bring their own,” said Alix. “We see all sorts of food here. Some people bring in their own tub of spaghetti Bolognese for their dog, and we see lots of chicken wings too, so we keep it all stored in the freezer. We’ve even had frozen roast dinners to be warmed up for the weekend. “People also bring in the dog’s favourite toys, and some dogs, especially as they get older, need regular medication too. We have a specific area for medicine and it’s well labelled as obviously it’s vital for the dog’s health. “Sadly, we do lose the occasional dog, mainly to old age. When I hear that a regular dog has passed away, I always have a little cry! “You do grow attached to the dogs, especially those that are here a lot. But you have to move on quickly as there are always other dogs that need looking after.”

For more details visit Keepers Cottage, Leechpond Hill, Lower Beeding, Horsham RH13 6NR or call 01403 891300 or visit www.keepers-kennels.co.uk

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Breakthrough Treatment For

Keith Atkinson, local Horsham therapist is offering a new method of pain relief called external neuromodulation. Labelled ‘a breakthrough for nerve pain relief’, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London did a clinical test and noted a ‘dramatic reduction in pain’. In 19 of 35 cases, the hospital reported a 100% improvement with pain reduced to zero. All these patients were suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.*

“I stood up square with no pain at all!” Eve Burnside, Taunton (July 2015) ‘I was leading a very active life working and showing Bloodhounds, which is physically very demanding. My problems first started in February this year when I woke up with this horrendous sciatic pain. I could not stand, sit or drive properly; the pain was agonising and went down my right side to my ankle. I ended up being prescribed Naproxen at the maximum dose and then co-codamol. In April, I was referred on to a NHS physio and quite frankly that just aggravated the problem. I could not exercise my dogs, and after competing with them in the show ring I was virtually crippled the next day. I was now crying as I was in so much pain, worse than when it had begun all those months ago. My movement was minimal and very restricted; I ended up being off work, tripling the co-codamol which I was now taking daily and then the doctor added amitriptyline in to the mix! However I was still in agonising pain despite taking all of these prescribed drugs. I had been sent for an x-ray and had blood tests done, neither revealing any useful information. I literally did not know what to do next! Fortunately, a friend of mine got in touch with me and insisted that I go and see Keith Atkinson. She herself had been to see Keith a couple of years ago. I looked up the Horsham Nerve Pain Clinic and saw that it was a three hour drive but I rang and luckily managed to get an

appointment very quickly. I hobbled into his rooms in excruciating pain and could not stand properly. After the treatment I stood up square with no pain at all! Keith explained this might be temporary as he had struggled in some places to get the motor response that he required. However I was ecstatic at being able to stand up! The pain did return but to a lesser extent and I was able to move again which seemed just incredible to me. After his second treatment I had an important show booked and the next day I was expecting to be in a lot of pain as I probably overdid it a little. I wasn’t! This treatment is truly amazing! I have had a third treatment and my back seems to have settled a lot. I am now basically off the co-codamol and just taking the Naproxen. I am now at a place where I am leading a relatively normal life again. I cannot express in words how great this treatment is and what it has meant to me to be able to get back to what I do. I would urge anyone to go and try this treatment; Keith has gone above and beyond to relieve my pain.’

Photograph courtesy of Farlap Photography

Nerve Pain Suggested Applications for Upper body

• Shoulder and neck pain • Frozen shoulder • Facial Pain and TMJ • Bell’s Palsy • Tension headaches • Thoracic back pain • Repetitive Strain injury • Tennis/golfer’s elbow • Osteoarthritis and other joint pain • Sporting injuries • Post operative pain • Phantom and Stump Pain (for amputees) • Complex Regional Pain syndrome • Other nerve related pain

Suggested Applications for Lower body

Firstly my best wishes for a healthy and pain free year to readers of AAH and clients of the Horsham Nerve Pain Practice! I have reprinted Eve's testimonial because it reflects typical sciatica symptons and importantly how with external neuromodulation the pain can be dramatically relieved and strong medications reduced or eliminated. I'm so pleased she has been able to return to a normal active life again. For other case studies on sciatica and other nerve conditions please refer to the website. Keith Atkinson January 2016 * ‘External stimulation : simplistic solution to intractable pain?’ St Thomas’ Hospital All testimonials and case studies are printed with the consent of the individuals concerned

• Sciatica lower back and leg pain • Femoral back and leg pain • Knee pain • Achilles tendonitis • Osteoarthritis and other joint pain • Ankle and feet pain including gout • Plantar fasciitis • Sporting injuries • Post operative pain • Phantom and Stumppain (For amputees) • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome • Other nerve related pain

Free Review Consultation! Contact Keith Atkinson at Horsham Nerve Pain Practice, 46 Depot Rd, Horsham, RH13 5HD

01403 256332 07768 537846 www.horshampainrelief.co.uk Email: keithatkinson5455@gmail.com The Stimpod NMS 460 used for external neuromodulation is now available at the Horsham Nerve Pain Practice.

Watch video case studies and read patient testimonials at

www.horshampainrelief.co.uk

For details of exhibitions at Horsham Museum visit the website at www.horshammuseum.org

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First World War

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SPIES Following the release of a major film written by Horsham’s Matt Charman, AAH looks back to The Great War, when two high-profile residents deployed ‘spying’ tactics. Yes, we know the link is tenuous...

s regular readers will know, the critically-acclaimed film Bridge of Spies was co-written by Matt Charman, who grew up in Horsham. Last month, the former Forest Boys and Collyer’s student was present for a special screening of the film at The Capitol, answering many questions from the audience at the sell-out show. Already, Bridge of Spies – directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks – has made over $125 million at the Box Office and received several critical accolades. Mark Rylance has received a Golden Globe nomination in the Best Supporting Actor category, whilst Matt (along with co-writers Ethan and Joel Coen) have earned two significant award nominations. The film has been named as one of the top ten films of the year by the National Board of Review, which has produced a list every year since 1929. Bridge of Spies is listed alongside the likes of The Hateful Eight, Inside Out, The Martian and Creed. Considering the significant Horsham link, AAH can’t help but eke out any opportunity for an associated feature, however tenuous the link may be!

So, wearing my long black trench coat, dark sunglasses, spy hat, with an umbrella that may or may not double as a Tommy gun, I met Jeremy ‘The Jackal’ Knight, of Horsham Museum at a secret location for a handover of brown envelope documenting top secret files of Horsham’s former spies. “You look ridiculous!” said The Jackal. “And I haven’t got a brown envelope for you. It’s much easier for me to email the text. Then you can just copy and paste it into the magazine.” It made me feel a bit silly. Anyway, here’s a story about two well-known spies connected to Horsham, although generallyspeaking the fame of both men rests on other aspects of their colourfully lives. Whilst they are not remembered as James Bond-type characters, one does have a rather amorous track record, much like 007, whilst the other spy had a similar adventurous streak to Fleming’s spy. Both men were active during World War One and, like all good spies, went back to their everyday activities after their adventures, with their espionage exploits soon forgotten...

HISTORY

John G Millais Millais is one of the more interesting figures from Horsham’s history, being adventure, big game hunter, naturalist, rare plant grower, artist and spy One person who wasn’t around for much of 1915 and a strange gap in the record of noted families assisting with fund raising was the Millais at Comptons Brow. John G. Millais was an expert shot and a leader of expeditions. But in 1915, at the age of 49, he was too old to fight. Coming from one of Horsham’s most noted families, Millais, who lived at Comptons Brow, regularly appeared in newspapers and parish magazines. But for a large part of the war, Millais was missing. So where was he? The answer lies in the autobiographical book published the year after the war, Wanderings and Memories, in which he recounts his hunting and expeditions up to and including the War years. His wife’s first cousin was Admiral Reginald Hall and with his knowledge of languages and Europe, John G Millais became, in effect, a spy, though more involved with counter-espionage. He was given the rank of lieutenantcommander, working for the Royal Naval Secret Service, holding the position of British Vice-Consul at Hammerfest in northern Norway.

‘Millais gives an almost caricature account of the German system and spies and the way that they “nearly all wore glasses or pince-nez’ What is difficult to assess from the almost jocular style of Millais’ writings is his impact on the war, for the account contains more on the natural history and animals he hunted than his work in Norway. But that probably reflects his modesty, as he does hint at some close shaves in Norway, where he stayed until 1917. The following is based on Millais’ own account of his activities in Norway, taken from Wanderings and Memories: “Previous to this visit to Norway I had made some study of the German spy system, as it was necessary to do so concerning certain work which I had undertaken”. Millais gives an almost caricature account of the German system and spies and the way that they “nearly all wore glasses or pince-nez” and “almost without exception, wore German boots and clothes, which are

Tom Hanks and Mark Rylance have both been praised for their performances in Bridge of Spies, co-written by former Forest Boys and Collyer’s student Matt Charman

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There’s a fascinating exhibition of old images currently on at Horsham Museum. See our News round-up for more information

Image courtesy of HDC/Horsham Museum

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easily recognised by their cut.’ He wrote: ‘Early in the war Germany had in neutral countries probably ten spies to our one, but though so numerous they were not a particularly intelligent body of men. They nearly always hunted in couples, and, apart from the points of recognition I have already enumerated, had a way of standing about aimlessly or whispering in corners much after the manner of spies in the cinematograph.’ Millais then goes on to explain that Norway was frightened of the Germans and until 1917 didn’t expect the allies to win, that ‘nothing was ever done to clear the country of a system which daily produced results highly detrimental to Norwegian interests.’ He wrote: ‘These German spies notified (by means of carefully hidden wireless telegraphy) the advent and departure of all Norwegian and foreign ships, and were responsible for the sinking of a great number of the Norwegian ships. Though the Norwegian Government was well aware of these activities, they did absolutely nothing to prevent this leakage of news until 1917 when one-third of their whole tonnage (3,000,000) had been destroyed.” Millais then explains how he arrived with Captain Bennett at Christiania in August 1915, when he was met by two German spies, who followed them, passing on the duty to others as they travelled to Lofodens. There, the German spy, who made out to be a Russian, was eventually ejected by the locals as he didn’t have a passport. In October, they sailed to the mainland, where Millais used his previous friendship with a Norwegian to deduce that two fellow passengers were in fact very good German spies. He managed to give them the slip by giving out misleading information, much to his friend’s confusion. It turned out that the boat they were going to travel on was stopped by a German U Boat captain asking for two Englishmen that fitted Millais and his friend’s description. Not finding them on board, the captain took another Englishman who they imprisoned for 6 months in Germany. Millais sailed north to Hammerfest in 1916, the most northern town in the world and for seven months in the grip of the arctic winter. In ordinary times, the place is of little interest to the average tourist. But in 1916, Hammerfest was of importance, being the central point of the main cod industry of Norway. Though so small a port, as many as 5,000 oil-driven sea-going fishing boats make Hammerfest their base. Millais then goes on to explain, showing a perceptiveness and depth of understanding that makes it obvious why he was a suitable choice as a Vice Consular, how the English view that the Norwegians were solid allies during the

HISTORY War was wrong. The intelligentsia, Army and Navy might be pro-British but “the main population of Norway, settled on an immense coast-line from Arendal in the south to remote Vardo on the Finmark coast of the Polar Sea, were actively or passively pro-German.” He added: ‘The reasons for this are quite easily defined. Germany before the war had collared the greater part of the northern fish

‘The boat they were going to travel on was stopped by a German U Boat captain asking for Millais and his friend’ industry. She bought nearly the whole of her fish, and her commercial travellers, all speaking Norwegian fluently, travelled everywhere on the coastline and sold their goods. Nearly everything in the shops was German. Moreover, the Germans were paying the Norwegians something like a 600% advance on the price of their fish, whilst we were offering only something like a 200% advance.’

In Wanderings and Memories, Millais recounts how he would watch the various

Arctic birds on their spring migration, and the loneliness of his work. “In this atmosphere of pro-Germanism, one had no friends and no one to talk to. The telephone and telegraph girls were all German spies, and one had to be very careful that all messages were unintelligible to them. When the submarine difficulty began in September, they did not actually refuse to take my messages …but took good care that these messages were never delivered.” Millais does let on that he employed the services of a friend called “E” who spied for him on the German spies and movements of U boats, before relating one notable incident. “On 10 September I reported to the Legation in Christiania the arrival off Honningsvaag of the first German submarine, and was told that I was mistaken, and that the boat was an English one proceeding to Archangel. Two days later I reported it again, and knew that my information was correct, as certain Norwegian fishermen whom I asked to inform me of such an event had both seen and talked to the crews on board. Again I was told not to send incorrect messages. ‘Four days later, the 16th, two Norwegian ships were sunk off Honningsvaag, and our troubles began. From this date until December 1, when it became impossible for U boats to operate, some five German submarines continued to sink Norwegian ships almost daily between Honningsvaag and the Murman coast.”

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66 After the 1 December Millais turned south, as the German U boats could no longer hunt, to Bergen where on his return he found the town full of Germans. He had been informed by a friendly German-Norwegian merchant that the Germans were out to capture him. However Millais avoided capture with the help of the harbour master and returned to Newcastle. John Guille Millais is now remembered as one of the most respected of British ornithologists and bird artists. Millais died at Horsham on his 66th birthday, and today Horsham Museum retains some of his vast collection of animal and bird skins.

Wilfrid Blunt The second of Horsham’s famous spies is the Arabian explorer, horse breeder, writer, poet and lover, Wilfrid Scawen Blunt Throughout the First World War, 75-year-old Scawen Blunt entertained many of the leading politicians of the day, including Winston Churchill, at his home in Newbuildings, Southwater. Those that couldn‘t visit kept up extensive correspondence. One of the correspondents was Blunt’s old flame to whom he wrote his first published poetry, the courtesan ‘Skittles’. A letter dated 20 November 1914 records how well Skittles also knew the German

Blunt was a friend of Winston Churchill, aiding him in his 1906 biography of his father, Randolph Churchill, whom Blunt had befriended years earlier in 1883 at a chess tournament

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Kaiser, who gave her a photograph and a jewelled sunshade which she sold to raise money for poor wounded troops. Skittles occasionally visited him and in March 1918, Blunt wrote: ‘Thank God, here is spring at last, a roaring lion it has come and with it XX (Skittles) to spend the day and see the horses. Though deaf and partly blind, XX is unconquered in talk, and gave us all the gossip of the hour, though it is too piecemeal for reproduction. I sent her away happy with a basket of butter and eggs to eke out her London rations.’ What we do not know, but would not be beyond probability, is that Blunt passed on to the British cabinet conversations he had with Skittles. He detested the war and argued strongly against Britain’s involvement, so idle chat and snippets probably flowed freely. But was this really spying?

Thanks for Jeremy Knight of Horsham District Council’s Horsham Museum for providing text for this article. Jeremy’s History of Horsham Volumes are available at the Museum. www.horshammuseum.org

REPORT: BEN MORRIS PICTURES: TOBY PHILLIPS

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