Losing someone close to us is a painful and challenging experience. Our aim at H D Tribe is to make the whole funeral process as simple and as stress-free as possible for you, by offering a complete funeral service, ensured by H D Tribe’s long-established reputation for quality, dignity and reliability.
Carly joined the team in 2017 bringing with her almost 20 years’ experience within the funeral industry. She thrives on attention to detail and doing her very best for her families. She has 3 demanding children who keep her busy with motorbikes and horses when she isn’t at work. She has a passion for funky irregular choice shoes, be sure to check out her feet if you are in the office.
Carly Cripps
All about Rustington
Community Magazine and Business Directory
Editor and Publisher:
Helen Holt
Editorials and Advertisements
t: 01273 732993
e: helen@allaboutmagazines.co.uk
w: www.allaboutmagazines.co.uk
All about Rustington is independently published. 7,100 copies are distributed through the door to homes in Rustington every other month.
Thank You
to all the businesses and the library who hold extra copies of the magazine. We would also like to thank all of the advertisers as without them, this magazine would not be possible.
May/June 2025 deadlines
Editorial submissions and advertising copy by 2nd April. Finished artwork by 4th April.
Disclaimer
All about Rustington cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services that appear in the magazine.
Welcome to our March issue
William Wordsworth wrote so beautifully about one of the iconic symbols of March, the daffodil, ‘fluttering and dancing in the breeze… Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.’ Indeed, to many it is the golden trumpets of the daffodil which announce to the world the arrival of spring.
Due to a late Easter this year, Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day falls in March on Tuesday 4th March. Schools will celebrate World Book Day on 6th March and the clocks will go forward in the early hours of Mothering Sunday on 30th March, so don’t be late to meet your Mum!
The front cover photo was taken at The Old Vicarage, Washington by James Walters for the NGS Open Gardens.
There is plenty going on in our local areas as usual, check out our What’s On pages and the website. Don’t forget to add your events on our website and then they will appear in the magazine too.
Happy reading!
Helen and the All about Magazines team
Community Boardwalk has become a reality on
East Preston Beach
The seeds of this project were sown back in 2014 when the initial planning application was submitted but rejected. The idea was resurrected by the late Alan Hultquist, Chairman of the East Preston Disability Action Group who asked Roy Allen, a retired engineer, to prepare plans for the scheme. Sea Road Beach Access Ltd (a not‐for‐profit company) was set up to procure and install the boardwalk.
On 16th February 2024, planning permission was granted and finally we could start to raise funds.
Over 100 donations, including one from the Ashfield Trust, enabled materials for the foundation modules to be purchased. The kind loan of the Coastal Caravan Park compound by Zoë and Philip Steel enabled 29 pre‐fabricated modules to be assembled by volunteers before Christmas.
The decking boards were purchased a second donation from the Ashfield Cloud 9 generously dug the foundation at no cost starting on 27th January volunteers installed the modules in
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information
SeaRoadBeachAccess@icloud.com
LRB Cleaning Services
Goring‐based LRB Cleaning Services Ltd was established in 2006 by business owner Jody Bull, with a simple strategy of providing high standards of service, delivered at a reasonable price.
We believe in the Mum test: Would I be happy if someone had delivered that service to my Mum? We also believe in focusing on the quality of our service and working hard to not only turn up when we say we will but also let you know if we’re delayed. And if you are not completely sa sfied, we will always welcome your feedback and do everything possible to seek a resolu on. Simply, we aim for perfec on and dy up a er ourselves!
Eighteen years of research and development have led to us carrying the most efficient tools and, wherever possible, always using the most environmentally friendly products. We have polished and perfected all our services and pride ourselves on an array of fantas c reviews (Checkatrade / Google), making us not only a friendly local, family‐run business but also a
team of exterior cleaning specialists where the standard means everything to us.
Over 400 local homeowners from Worthing to Li lehampton trust us with their schedule, some of whom we have con nued to maintain for our en re opera on of over 18 years. From regular window cleaning, to UPVC roofline valets, gu er clearance, pressure cleaning drives/patios and roof moss control. Whichever, we’re here to deliver a first‐class service!
“I have used Jody before to clean a very dirty pa o. He transformed it. More recently, he’s cleaned and repaired some gu ering. Excellent job. Would definitely recommend.” Client, BN12
If you would like more informa on and a free quota on, please call 01903 521365, email admin@lrbcleaningservices.co.uk or visit the website www.lrbcleaningservices.co.uk
80th Anniversary of VE‐Day
The 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, which marked the end of the War in Europe and WWII as a whole, is on Thursday 8th May 2025.
It is understood that beacons and lamp lights of peace will be lit throughout the United Kingdom at 9.30pm on 8th May, with the Proclama on being read prior to this at 9pm. The VE Day flag will be raised at 9am on the day.
Plans for commemora ng this very special anniversary are already underway for the village, and the Parish Council, in partnership with the Li lehampton Concert Band will be hos ng a suitably themed Musical Concert on Saturday 10th May, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm, in the Village Memorial Hall at The Woodlands Centre. Entry is free of charge and will include refreshments, plus a lucky programme draw. Tickets will be available on a first‐come‐first‐serve basis from the Village Informa on Centre (Samuel Wickens Centre) from 1st April.
On the 8th May, the Li lehampton District Lions Club will be hos ng a themed quiz and fish and chip supper (vegetarian op on
available) in the Village Memorial Hall, commencing at 7pm (doors open at 6pm). Tickets are available from Lion Rosemary on 07747 592379, and cost of £15 per person. All profits will be donated to the local branches of the Sea, Army and Air Force Cadets.
There will also be a special exhibi on at the museum, with a themed public talk by Graeme Taylor, at the Samuel Wickens Centre, during the week of the anniversary. Further details of these will be adver sed on the Rus ngton Museum and Parish Council’s Facebook pages and websites.
Blind Veterans UK will be par cipa ng in the ligh ng of beacons na onwide at 9.30pm on 8th May. This will take place beachside on their Quarterdeck. Details of this and other events to be held at the Rus ngton Centre will be shared on their Facebook page in due course.
For further informa on, please contact the Parish Council Offices on 01903 786420 or email: enquiry@rus ngtonpc.org
Alexander Team Up for Prestigious Award
If you have been a local for some time you will likely have heard of independent kitchen, bathroom and bedroom designer and installers Alexander, a now third‐generation family‐run retailer with the largest independent showroom in the area on the Sompting Road, Worthing.
They have been long‐established in Worthing, with their roots stretching back to 1976. With plenty of free parking and more than 35 full‐size kitchen, bathroom and bedroom displays, it is certainly worth the trip.
The Alexander team are no stranger to an award, but their latest announcement perhaps trumps their past achievements to date. The kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2025 is the most prestigious ceremony in the industry and the team at Alexander have done well to see themselves named a finalist in the Kitchen Retailer of the Year category.
Their fate will be announced at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom on April 24th at the award ceremony, with their Horsham Showroom Manager Alistair Glover, who has also been named a finalist within the Rising Star category (for those aged 30 and under).
Some of Alexander’s previous wins include being named Installation Company of the Year at the kbbreview Awards in 2022 (pictured above), while Horsham Showroom Manager Alistair was named Bedroom Designer of the Year in 2024 at the Kbsa Awards in 2024. In a nod to their popular complete installation option, which includes precise coordination of their team of in‐house installers, Installation Manager Warwick Hockley was named the BiKBBI’s Installation Manager of the Year 2023.
But to be named Kitchen Retailer of the Year at such prestigious awards may perhaps eclipse all of their accolades to date.
You might wonder how a home retailer from little old Worthing is being recognised on the 12
national stage. Well, the secret lies in the unique complete installation option available with home projects. Alexander clients pay a fixed price for the full design, project coordination, and installation of their project, which is undertaken by experienced tradesmen that are all employed in‐house.
And what they install is of utmost quality, too. Choose from quality British and German furniture brands, high‐specification kitchen appliances, and premium components to suit almost all of which come with extensive warranties and guarantees.
Alexander offer a free design, quotation and home measure service, including 3D plans of your project, so if you are looking to renovate, contact them directly to arrange your free design appointment.
A: 13 Sompting Road, Worthing, BN14 9EW
W: www.alexanderkitchens.co.uk
T: 01903 522555 (opt2)
E: sales@alexanderkitchens.co.uk
Please mention All about Rustington when contacting advertisers
1. Quality Furnishings
We’ll get to know you and your project requirements, providing you with a high-quality design and fixed price quotation. Expert Design &
3. Installation
Our award-winning tradesmen will fit your project to our high standards. Plus, we’ll guarantee our work for 12 months. 2. Full Coordination
We’ll professionally survey your property, and provide you with a fitting schedule, to be undertaken by our in-house team.
Walking S ck carving courses
by Steve Webster
Following a 40‐year career in conserva on land management, looking a er some iconic nature reserves in the south east, Steve Webster is looking to pass on some of his knowledge and skills to the next genera on.
“I’ve always loved the outdoors,” Steve says. “Early in my career I was a Senior Countryside Instructor. I s ll love sharing my knowledge, especially through guided walks and illustrated talks. Since deciding on semi‐re rement in 2024, I have been giving talks to local clubs and socie es on subjects such as ‘Beginner’s Fungi’ and ‘A Day in the Life of a Ranger’, but I would like to also pass on my prac cal skills as well. I’ve always dabbled with woodworking, either basic carving or wood turning.
Back in the early 2000s, I was a founder member of the Saxon S ckmakers — a group of
like‐minded people who gathered to carve beau ful walking s cks. It’s amazing what you can achieve with simple cra knives.”
Steve is now offering small, bespoke courses to those interested in learning this dying cra “There’s something very sa sfying about working with wood, and especially making something like a shepherd’s crook. They’re great to carry on a walk, and make a great talking point. In one day, course par cipants ck, with the on to purchase the tools used, in order to hone their skills and make more at home.”
Twenty‐five years ago, Simon and Julie took the plunge and purchased Arun Furnishers in Beach Road, Li lehampton. Simon has been in the furniture industry most of his working life and Julie in accounts, so they were very confident that between them it would be a good move and they could make a success of it; they certainly did but have now decided that the me is right to re re and move to the next chapter of their lives.
Arun Furnishers has been a big part of their life for so long; however, by retiring now they will hopefully be able to spend many years having extended stays with their family in Australia and enjoy lots of quality time with their young grandchildren. They are looking forward to all those school concerts and cheering them on at their soccer matches with the rest of the grandparents!
Over the last 25 years they have seen the world and our High Street change immeasurably but have been lucky enough to have met many of the lovely people of Littlehampton and beyond, it is amazing how far some of their customers have travelled to come and see them.
The loyalty and support over the years has been very touching and they have made many “friends” who frequently call in for a chat and a catch up on life. They have always believed that “good old‐fashioned service” is very important and know this has been one of the main reasons why they have had such continuous success.
They will be having a RETIREMENT SALE to clear all the stock from the showroom, including sofas, chairs, beds, headboards, bedroom furniture and lounge furniture. The sale began on 3rd February and will run until the end of March or earlier if all the stock has gone!
In the meantime if you have been meaning to order something there is still time as they will be around until every order has been fulfilled and delivered. Even if you do not need to buy or order anything, please feel free to pop in for a chat or just to say goodbye.
Finally, Simon and Julie would like to say a huge thank you to all their loyal customers who over the years have supported them and helped make the business what it is today. They are genuinely going to miss everyone and it will be a sad day when they finally close the doors for the last time but they are looking forward to an exciting retirement.
What is enough?
Richard Cohen, FPFS ACII MCSI Chartered Financial Planner
It’s a big ques on, so let’s just focus on the financial aspect. Life doesn’t come with a defini ve expiry date. Planning for the future, especially when it comes to re rement, may seem a bit like guesswork. The discussion about how much is enough is common in many of my mee ngs. The biggest concern is whether or not there will be enough money in the pot.
How much do you actually need? When planning your re rement, it’s o en good prac ce to list all the things you actually want to do. Are you planning on taking mul ple holidays a year now that you’re not limited to the standard five weeks per annum of leave? Are you going to change your car every three years? Are you planning on having an expensive hip opera on? Hopefully, you get the gist, but outlining your expecta ons for re rement can drama cally shape what you need in terms of income. It’s also key to remember that there is no law to say that you have to give up working.
Deciding to delay re rement by even a year can have a huge impact. Every year you put off re rement, it’s an extra year of income, an extra year’s growth for your pension fund and another year that you’re not drawing on the re rement pot.
Other factors to bear in mind are that you may be lucky enough to be reasonably debt‐free by re rement age, so monthly outgoings could be considerably less than that of your expenses in your 40s. You may also draw a State Pension, which provides an addi onal source of income.
There is o en a lot of concern about whether you have enough to see you through re rement, but in some cases, you may even have too much. As always, if you would like to discuss anything, feel free to get in touch.
The Beach Club Li lehampton:
Crea ng Memories by the Shore
At The Beach Club Li lehampton, our mission is simple: to create a welcoming space where the community comes together to enjoy the best food, drink, and entertainment. Located on the seafront, halfway between Li lehampton and Rus ngton, we strive to be a place where people can connect, celebrate, and create las ng memories.
We open at 7am every day, making us the perfect spot for a post‐beach walk breakfast. From Thursday to Sunday, we stay open into the evening, offering a deligh ul evening dining experience, now featuring our new tapas selec on and Sunday Roasts. We cater to everyone — from families seeking a relaxing tea a er a visit to the Wave, to young professionals enjoying Friday nights with bespoke cocktails and live music. With themed party nights, live performances, and seasonal celebra ons, we bring energy and excitement to the Arun district's social scene. We are commi ed to enhancing the community experience. This includes collabora ng with local talent, suppor ng small businesses, and providing a space for
local clubs to benefit from everything the coast has to offer. We also have an onsite Beach Watersports Team (in collabora on with Duotone) that offers ac vi es like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. While relaxing in the Club, you’ll o en spot adventurers out on the water, enjoying the sea and wind. Join us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and experience everything The Beach Club Li lehampton has to offer.
Las ng Power Of A orney
What would happen if you no longer had the mental capacity to make decisions about your property, finances, health and welfare?
In this instance, a Deputy, appointed by the Court of Protec on, would be put in place to manage your affairs.
If you would prefer to have control over who makes such important decisions about your life if you lose mental capacity, then it would be wise to consider pu ng a Las ng Power of A orney (LPA) in place.
An LPA is a document that allows you to appoint one or more people to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you lose mental capacity in rela on to either:
Health and welfare – this includes decisions about care, medical treatment, food, drink, clothing, ac vi es, and where you live.
Property and financial affairs – this includes decisions about paying bills, bank accounts, savings accounts, investments, and selling property.
Benefits of an LPA include:
Peace of mind: You can rest assured that someone you trust will make decisions for you according to your wishes if you are unable to.
Clarity: You can start discussions with your family about what you want to happen.
Cost and Speed: An LPA is a significantly quicker and cheaper process than the Deputyship applica on.
If you are considering se ng up an LPA or would like to discuss this or any Private Client ma ers further, please contact Sophie Careless‐Shore by email: scarelessshore@moyle.co.uk.
advertise please call 01273 732993 or email
Guild Care acquires Saxon House, Worthing,
to enhance community support
Guild Care is delighted to announce a significant development that will help shape its future and strengthen its ability to support the local community. This exci ng change aligns with the charity’s long‐term growth strategy and reinforces the charity’s vision to ensure everyone in need of care lives a safe, secure, and fulfilling life. It also supports their mission to provide accessible, effec ve, and compassionate services.
Worthing’s leading social care charity, Guild Care, has acquired Saxon House, a large, modern building situated in the heart of Worthing. This acquisi on marks a major step forward in making their vision a reality, enabling them to expand their services and enhance the care they provide in a modern, purpose‐built environment.
Saxon House is much more than just a building – it represents a transforma ve opportunity to improve the lives of the charity’s service users, staff, volunteers, and the wider community through:
Dedicated Service User Facili es: Purpose‐built spaces designed to meet the unique needs of those Guild Care supports, ensuring safe and modern care environments
Modern Workspace and Improved Transport Access: The new open‐plan workspace, combined with their current building, Methold House, offers ample parking and enhanced facili es for their transport team, enabling safer and more efficient transporta on for service users
Enhanced Community Connec ons: The acquisi on of Saxon House provides addi onal space to expand the charity’s services, fostering a community hub where more people in the local area can access the support they need. These enhancements will enable Guild Care to strengthen their services, improve user experiences, and create a more unified, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all.
Warren Fabes, CEO of Guild Care, said: “The acquisition of Saxon House is a transformational moment for Guild Care. This new facility will allow us to extend our reach and enhance the services we provide to the local community. We are excited about the opportuni es it creates for the people who use our services as well as our staff and volunteers, and ensures
that we can con nue to deliver compassionate, effec ve, and accessible care in a bright, modern, and suppor ve environment.
“We would also like to extend our hear elt thanks to Mike Holland, a Patron, major donor, and long‐term supporter of Guild Care, whose generous dona on has contributed significantly to enable this acquisi on. We would also like to thank Jacobs Steel Estate Agents for their support in helping us acquire Saxon House, as well as Benne Griffin Solicitors who acted on behalf of Guild Care on the purchase of Saxon House ”
Mike Holland is also a family member of one of the charity’s service users. In recogni on of his unwavering support of Guild Care, and consistent with other buildings being named a er the charity’s founders and patrons, Saxon House will be renamed Holland House.
Guild Care’s services will con nue as they are currently, while plans are developed. The charity will be consul ng with service users, staff and volunteers about the best uses for the addi onal space at Saxon House before confirming when services may move into the new building.
More informa on about the history of Guild Care, spanning over more than 90 years, and its current range of services to support older people, people living with demen a, and children and adults with learning disabili es, is available at www.guildcare.org
Coppice and Angmering Medical Centre
We are making it easier for pa ents to get in touch. You can submit all medical and admin requests through our website, by phone, or in person. This includes requests for appointments, prescrip ons, test results, fit notes, and referral queries. All requests for appointments will be reviewed by our GPs or ANPs, who will either book you an appointment or direct you to the appropriate service. We encourage those who can, to make online requests, keeping phone lines open for those who need them. If you cannot access the website, call 01903 850900 or visit our prac ce for assistance.
FAQs
How do I book an appointment? Visit our Appointments page online and submit a request: www.thecoppicesurgery.nhs.uk/ appointments. You’ll answer a few ques ons about your issue.
Who reviews appointment requests? Our GPs or ANPs will review and allocate requests to the appropriate team member. What if I don't have internet access? Call us at 01903 850900 or visit the surgery for help. Why are we changing this? We’re responding
World Day of Prayer
to pa ent feedback to reduce phone wait mes and improve access to appointments. How will this work? Submit your request online by 2pm for same‐day review; otherwise, it will be addressed the next working day. Requests will be allocated to the most suitable team member, who will contact you to arrange an appointment if needed.
Opening Times: 8am ‐ 6.30pm Monday to Friday in both clinics, apart from Fridays when the Coppice closes at 1pm. Doors are closed daily between 12.30pm to 1pm.
Extended access service for pre-arranged appointments: 6pm to 8pm weekdays at Angmering Medical Centre, and Saturdays 9am to 5pm, which alternates between Angmering Medical Centre and Fitzalan Medical Group. Upcoming closure a ernoons: Required for essen al update training: 20th March and 10th April ‐ for mings, please see our website.
This takes place on Friday 7th March and this year was inspired and led by Chris an women from The Cook Islands who have shared stories of their struggle during Covid‐19, of their culture being devalued and of the improvements in obstetric health care. We give thanks for their honesty and their witness to God’s strength in their lives.
They say: “God knows us in mately and we are special to God in our uniqueness. When we open the doors of our hearts to this truth everything in our life changes. We glow from within and we begin to treat others as beloved children of God. Through this Service we hope people will be spiritually upli ed as they come to trust the great love of God.”
World Day of Prayer is an international, inter‐church organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers. The preparation for the day is vast. An international committee is based in New York and there are national committees in each participating country. Regional conferences meet to consider the service and then local groups make their plans.
The Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer travel throughout the world before finishing in American Samoa 38 hours later.
The 2025 World Day of Prayer event in our area will be held on Friday 7th March at St Andrews URC, Holmes Lane, Rus ngton BN16 2PY at 10.30am. There is also a service at St Margaret’s Church, Arundel Road, Angmering at 1.45pm.All services are en tled ‘I made you wonderful’ and there will be refreshments a erwards. All are welcome! For further information and resources see the WDP website: wwdp.org.uk
Roofing services and repairs in Sussex
Best Choice Roofing, Angmering‐based for 17 years and now located in Pulborough, has been a family‐run business since 1991. Marc Ridpath heads up the team that covers West Sussex with a broad range of pitched and flat roofing services.
We have the personable approach of a small company backed with 50+ years of experience in our team of roofers. We can do everything from minor roof repairs and installing fascias and soffits to conservatory roof replacements. Areas covered by our roofers include Horsham, Storrington and Worthing, but we also offer services to customers in other loca ons across the county such as Angmering, Billingshurst, East Preston, Petworth and Steyning, to name just a few. No ma er how small or big the job mightbe, you can rely on us to turn up promptly, work professionally and treat your property with respect.
Because we live in the area where we work, Best Choice Roofing takes pride in its trustworthy delivery of installa ons, roof repairs, conservatory roof replacements, chimney repairs, leadwork and more.
From a single gu er clip to a new roof, including insurance work, we grow our reputa on by making you the most important person in our business.
Buy with Confidence: Trading Standards Approved
Buywithconfidence.gov.uk offers more than personal opinion and hearsay — their members, of which Best Choice Roofers are one, are rigorously ve ed to make sure they meet high standards.
What is Buy With Con
fidence?
It is an online directory where you can find trustworthy local traders who are Trading Standards Approved. Trading Standards have assessed, ve ed and approved all the businesses on the scheme.
Recommenda ons
Roof Tile Replacement Spoke to Marc on the phone; he turned up promptly, gave a fair quote and turned up on a blisteringly hot Saturday morning and replaced the les I saw that needed replacing as well as several others. No increase in quote to do extras. Polite, dy and thorough. Would certainly recommend.
Chimney Lead Replacement Excellent work. Quote was compe ve, even with requirement for scaffolding. Communica on before work commenced was mely. Job completed as per quote. Very sa sfied with everything.
Call Marc for more informa on 0800 7561372 or visit www.bestchoiceroofing.co.uk
Join the Transylvanian Cycle Challenge –
Make a Difference While Cycling Through History!
Are you ready for the cycling adventure of a life me? The Link to Hope Transylvanian Sponsored Cycle Challenge offers you the chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Romania, all while suppor ng a worthy cause.
Taking place between 3rd to 10th October, this unforge able journey will take you through the heart of Transylvania, with cyclists visi ng Link to Hope’s project in Brasov, Romania, which supports disabled and marginalised people.
For just £795, you’ll get everything you need for this thrilling challenge — flights, food, transfers, accommoda on, bike hire, and full support throughout the event. But that’s not all; we’re asking par cipants to raise £1,000 in sponsorship to help con nue the vital work we do. Don’t worry if fundraising feels daun ng, we’ll support you every step of the way to ensure you meet your target and make a real impact on the lives of those in need.
With only 15 places available, this is an exclusive opportunity to challenge yourself while making a difference. The funds raised will go directly to Link to Hope’s projects in Eastern Europe, where we provide essen al services to those who need it most.
Helen C, a past par cipant of a Link to Hope challenge, says: “It was an amazing challenge to be part of. Romania is stunning and so interes ng. I felt a huge achievement at the end, not only for myself but for the people I was helping through my fundraising”
A propor on of the cycle ride funds will be going to help the charity Hope Without Limits based in Sacele, Brasov, Romania. It exists to
help disabled people and children who are historically marginalised in society. They run weekly meet‐up groups to bring disabled people together for company, food, ac vi es, advice and even put on produc ons. Funds will go towards con nuing these mee ngs as well as a new work programme they are se ng up to help to bring self‐sufficiency to the people they work with.
So why wait? Sign up today and be part of an extraordinary adventure that will change lives. For more informa on or to secure your place, contact us at info@linktohope.co.uk or call 01903 529333.
Don’t miss out. Join us on this incredible journey and help us con nue our work suppor ng those in need across Eastern Europe. We can’t wait to cycle with you for a great cause!
2nd
6th April 2025
4th May 2025
1st
13th April 2025
11th May 2025
8th May 2025
News from Rus ngton Parish Council
Rus ngton’s Community Carol Concert
Rus ngton Parish Council, as is now tradi onal, hosted a feast of seasonal music and merriment at its annual Community Carol Concert at the end of last year. Entry was free, as were the refreshments. Everyone received a programme, which contained a lucky number for the Grand Draw. This saw in excess of 70 donated prizes being given to members of the audience.
The Village Memorial Hall at The Woodlands Centre was truly alive with plenty of fes ve cheer, for this, always‐well‐a ended community event. The audience was treated to melodious singing from both the Sussex West County Guide Choir, featuring Leaders Allowed and The Friendship Singers.
The Li lehampton Concert Band not only accompanied all of the Christmas carols, but also performed its own enchan ng selec on of festive music to the delight of everyone present.
The Chairman of the Parish Council, Councillor Jamie Benne , said he was absolutely delighted and honoured to be able to welcome everyone to the 2024 Concert.
As had been the case for a number of years, Councillor Andy Cooper, vice‐chairman of the Parish Council, took on, most professionally, the role of compere for the evening, with much humour and frivolity!
The Re ring Collec on and Charity Auc on raised an extremely impressive sum of just under £1,000, which will be donated to the Blind Veterans UK, Rus ngton.
Prizes for the lucky programme draw and the charity auc on included a 43‐inch smart TV, a hardwood bird table, two Brighton and Hove Albion match ckets, a £50 Pizza Express voucher, and floral planters. All of the prizes had been generously donated by ADR Fastlec, Ansell Ligh ng (Karl Wilkinson), Arun Business Supplies, Aubrey Bird Carpets and Flooring, Barkers Electrical, Blue Billboard, Bluebird Café, Briggs Electrical, City Electrical Factors (CEF), Clipper Street Barbers, Country Life Pet Supplies, Drusilla’s, Ferring Nurseries, Fishers Farm, Harbour Park, Howies Coffee, KEW Electrical, Louis Perkins ‐ Seed Brighton Performance Marke ng Agency, Out of Bounds,
Panther Sales, Pik‐a‐Pak (supplier of Igenix and Statesman Products), Pizza Express Brighton, Rivervale Cars Brighton, Sigma Plumbing, South Coast Coffee Co. Limited, Southern Cleaning Services, Stearn Electric Company, Tesco Extra Durrington, and Waterstones.
RUSTINGTON PARISH COUNCIL 2025 PARISHIONERS’ AWARDS
Members of the public are invited to submit nomina ons for the 2025 Parishioners’ Awards.
Two awards can be made, one to an individual and one to a group/organisa on, in recogni on of outstanding public service to the community.
All Rus ngton parishioners or parish‐based organisa ons, including voluntary groups and professionals, are eligible to receive these awards.
Individuals, groups and organisa ons from outside of the parish who make an outstanding contribu on for the benefit of the community of Rus ngton may also be considered for these awards.
Nomina on forms are available from the Council Offices and the Samuel Wickens Centre. Alterna vely, to request a nomina on form, please call the Council Offices on 01903 786420 or email enquiry@rus ngtonpc.org or scan the QR code for further details and nomina on form.
The closing date for the receipt of nomina ons is Monday 28th April 2025 and the winners will be announced in June.
Note: These awards are once‐in‐a‐life me awards and will not be presented on more than one occasion to any individuals, groups, clubs, organisa ons or associa ons.
What’s On in and around Rustington
Please add your events to our website www.allaboutmagazines.co.uk/add/event if you would like your event to appear in the ‘What’s On’ pages.
Saturday 1st March ‐ 14:00 to 16:45
Beetle Drive (The Scout Hall, The Street, East Preston, BN16 1HZ )
Come to the Rus ngton, Ferring and East Preston NSPCC group Beetle Drive plus raffle. Tickets £5, includes a cream tea. To reserve a place, text 07846212316 or call 01903 241270.
Saturday 1st March ‐ 19:00 to 21:00
St David’s Day Concert (St Symphorian’s Church, New Road, Worthing, BN13 3HU)
Local choirs Sussex Gruffs Male Voice Choir and Inspirations Community Choir will perform music from film, theatre and other popular numbers. Free entry. There will be a collec on in aid of the Church Social and Fundraising Mission Fund.
Sunday 2nd March ‐ 10:00 to 17:00
Welsh Music Listening Party (Pier Road Coffee & Art, High Street, Li lehampton, BN17 5AE)
This special music listening party is en rely centred around Welsh bands and music. Booking is essen al. Pop in or email pierroadcoffeeart@hotmail.com
Sat 8th and Sun 9th March ‐ 10:15 to 14:15
Arundel Museum presents: Children’s Literary Fringe — meet the authors (Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PA)
Meet three fantas c children’s authors, as part of the Arundel Literary Fes val. There will also be a fun children’s book quiz over, which will take you around Arundel looking for books. Test your knowledge and win a book token. For full details, see www.arundelmuseum.org
Mon 10th to Fri 28th March (excluding weekends) ‐ mes vary
Library of Possibili es and Wonder (Rus ngton Library, Claigmar Road, BN16 2NL)
Experience books in a completely new way as West Sussex Library Service celebrates its 100th anniversary. Put on one of the VR headsets and jump into a magical world of virtual books. Choose from: Smuggling, Countryside, Cookery,
History or Space. The full experience lasts 15 minutes. Book this free event on Eventbrite.
Tuesday 11th March ‐ 19:15 to 21:00
Mon Oncle, un prisonnier des Nazis (Angmering Community Centre, Foxwood Avenue, Angmering, BN16 4FU)
A moving and very personal talk based on the memories of the lecturer’s uncle who was imprisoned by the Nazis. The Anglo‐French Circle meets every second Tuesday of the month. All levels of French are welcome. Visitors £5. If you wish to a end, email in advance as numbers are limited: anglofrenchrus ngton@gmail.com
Wed 12th to Sat 15th March ‐ 19:30 to 21:30
Spider’s Web by Agatha Chris e (Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Ave, Rustington, BN16 3HB)
The Rus ngton Players are performing Agatha Chris e’s comedy thriller. To book, go to www. cketsource.co.uk/rus ngtonplayers
See Angmering Chorale’s first performance under its new Musical Director. Tickets £10 from www.theangmeringchorale.org.uk and the box office, call 01903 783918.
Thursday 13th March ‐ 14:30 to 15:45
Rus ngton Heritage Associa on (John de Bohun Room, The Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 3HB)
Gary Baines, chairman and founder of the Friends of Shoreham Fort, will give an update on the fort’s history and its restora on. Visitors £3, payable at the door. RHA members free.
Tuesday 18th March ‐ 19:15 to 21:00
The Art Society Arun Talk (Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 3HB)
The Life and Work of Tex le Designer Marion Dorn by Pamela Campbell‐Johnston. Everyone welcome. Guests £7 on the door. To find out more, email enquiries@thearunartssociety.org
Saturday 22nd March ‐ 14:00 to 16:00
Rus ngton Residents Associa on AGM (Rus ngton Methodist Church, Claigmar Road, BN16 2NL)
The AGM will elect the Chairman and Commi ee. A er a break for refreshments, Keith and Mick will be hos ng the ever‐popular Jokers Quiz.
Wednesday 26th March ‐ 19:00 to 22:00
The Art Society Arun: Day of Special Interest (Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 3HB)
Exploring the achievements of Britain’s official war ar sts with curator and lecturer James Russell. Tickets £41 includes three lectures, lunch and a drink. www.theartssocietyarun.org
Friday 28th March ‐ 19:30
Comedy and Curry Night (Mewsbrook Park Café, Hendon Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 2LX)
The excellent lineup includes David Ingram and Hannah Brackenbury. Tickets £22pp, which includes a meal. To book call 01903 722822. or got to h ps://mewsbrookparkcafe.co.uk
Saturday 29th March ‐ 10:30 to 16:00
Cra y Cra s Spring Cra Fair (Rus ngton Parish Church Hall, The Street, BN16 3NL)
Cra fair selling all types of cra s, including candles, papercra s, jewellery, embroidery and kni ed toys. www.cbkdesigns.co.uk
Saturday 29th March ‐ 19:30 to 22:00
Eurovision Concert by the Edwin James Fes val Choir (Li lehampton United Church, High Street, Li lehampton, BN17 5EG)
A choir concert of Bri sh Eurovision entries. Raising funds for Reaching Families, Li lehampton. Tickets £10 on the door or call 01243 584920 / 01243 582330.
Wed 2nd to Sat 5th April ‐ 19:30 to 22:30; Saturday ma nee 14:30
Li le Shop of Horrors (Windmill Theatre, Windmill Road, Li lehampton, BN17 5LH)
LPOS Musical produc ons are thrilled to bring this darkly comedic musical to The Windmill. Tickets £16, concessions £14. Purchase ckets from www. cketsource.co.uk/lpos or on the door. Group booking discounts are also offered, contact boxoffice@lpos.org to find out more.
Sunday 6th April ‐ 11:00 to 14:30
Spring Wedding Fayre (Li lehampton Town Council, Manor House, Church Street, BN17 5EW)
The perfect opportunity for all prospec ve couples to view this beau ful Grade II listed wedding venue and meet local wedding suppliers. Admission free. For more details, visit www.li lehampton‐tc.gov.uk/weddings or email weddings@li lehampton‐tc.gov.uk
Tuesday 8th April ‐ 19:15 to 20:45
200 ans après, que reste‐il de l'heritage de Napoléon? (Angmering Community Centre, Foxwood Avenue, BN16 4FU)
A talk to the Anglo French Circle about Napoleon’s legacy. Visitors £5 a visit but please email anglofrenchrus ngton@gmail.com as numbers are limited.
Thursday 10th April ‐ 14:30 to 16:00
Rus ngton Heritage Associa on AGM and Talk (John de Bohun Room, Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 3HB)
The illustrated talk is ‘The Remarkable Rhoda Garre ’ by Graeme Taylor. Visitors £3, payable at the door. RHA members free. All admissions subject to availability of seats on arrival.
Saturday 12th April ‐ 14:30 to 17:00
Sussex Theatre Organ Trust: Tea Dance with Phil Kelsall (Assembly Hall, Stoke Abbo Road, Worthing, BN11 1HQ)
Experience the magic of dancing to the Wurlitzer organ played by Phil Kelsall from the Tower Ballroom Blackpool. Tickets from £14, includes tea and cake. To book, go to www.wtm.uk
See Angmering Chorale’s first performance under its new Musical Director. Tickets £10 from www.theangmeringchorale.org.uk and the box office, call 01903 783918.
Friday 18th April ‐ 11:00 to 15:00
The Silent DJ’s Neon 80s Night (The Beach Li lehampton, Sea Road, BN16 2NA)
Experience the silent disco phenomenon. This is a very popular event so booking is essen al. Get your ckets at h ps://thesilentdjs.net/
What Am I Doing Wrong?!
Nathalie Sansonetti BA, MA, DNN, Dip AIT Nutritional Therapist & Health Coach, New Leaf Nutrition
Sharon came to me recently, desperate to lose weight. “My confidence is so low. I feel frumpy and una rac ve — I don’t even want to see my friends.” The real issue isn’t the weight (she wants to lose just a stone), but how it’s holding her back from living fully. And it’s making her feel isolated.
Sound familiar? Like Sharon, you’ve probably tried it all: early gym sessions when your body begged for sleep, cu ng food groups, fas ng, yet the extra weight clings on, and your energy’s nowhere to be found. Frustra ng, right?
Here’s the catch: you’ve likely triggered stress hormones—cor sol and insulin—that promote fat storage. When balanced, your body uses nutrients efficiently. But when you push too hard, it shi s into ‘fight or flight’ mode, leading to burnout, nutrient deple on, and fa gue. So, what’s the solu on?
Balance is key: Ditch refined sugars to lower cor sol and insulin, but don’t just cut — add healthy fats, proteins, and diverse foods.
Relax around food: Eat slowly, chew thoroughly — only when hungry, and stop at 80% fullness.
Listen to your body: Exercise isn’t one‐size‐fits‐all. For many, short, frequent, high‐intensity sessions work best.
Move mindfully: Add gentle movement to your day, breathe deeply, and priori se rest.
When your health or body hold you back from living your life, it’s me to tune in, to be er understand what works for you.
PS: Email me with the word ‘RECIPES’ in the subject line to get my “Top 10 Gut‐Friendly Recipes” at nathalie@newleafnutri on.co.uk
The Hearing Clinic
Let us help you hear every moment, loud and clear
At The Hearing Clinic, we are a proud, family‐run clinic that has been serving the community for 14 years, delivering professional and personalised care to support your hearing health. Our experienced team of registered audiologists and hearing care assistants provide a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your needs.
From safe and gentle ear wax removal using micro‐suc on and irriga on methods to detailed hearing assessments, we handle every step with precision and exper se.
We also specialise in servicing and repairing all makes and models of private hearing aids, helping to maintain their op mal performance. For those looking for new devices, we offer a wide selec on of high‐quality hearing aids, expertly fi ed with ongoing a ercare.
For clients unable to visit our clinic, we are pleased to offer home appointments, ensuring you receive the same level of compassionate and professional care in the comfort of your own home. You can rest assured that, with our extensive experience, we can iden fy any
hearing‐related concerns that may require further medical a en on. Whether it’s persistent ear infec ons, sudden hearing loss, or other poten ally referable condi ons, our team ensures that nothing is overlooked and that you receive the appropriate guidance for your health and well‐being.
As a trusted local business, we pride ourselves on providing a friendly, approachable service where you are treated as an individual, not just a client. To learn more about our services or to book an appointment, contact us at 01903 204521.
Let us help you hear every moment, loud and clear.
Non‐Surgical Subtle Enhancements
To Bring out Your Natural Beauty
Well known in the heart of Sussex, Jessica’s beauty rooms in Goring have been enhancing the natural beauty of their clients for 35 years, offering a wide range of cosmetic procedures.
Jessica has been a therapist for over 35 years and is qualified in the more advanced skills of Clinical Aesthetic treatments such as Sclerotherapy (the permanent removal of blue and red veins from the legs), Botox muscle relaxants and Restylane fillers.
She has gained a reputation in the field of electrolysis (the permanent removal of superfluous hair), which requires a great deal of skill to be successful, and can guarantee permanent results.
Adding to her skills she also trained many years ago in the treatment of semi-permanent makeup (brow-line, eyeliner, lip line and scar tissue) when, at that time, very little was known about the treatment. Jessica is pleased to see how popular it has become and now there is no need to pencil in over-plucked eyebrows.
Her clients range from busy mums, career women and celebrities, from all walks of life from 18 - 80 years.
Jessica has become aware that over the years the beauty career industry has grown rapidly, and as an examiner for the I.H.B.C. she has seen many more students going into the beauty world. There has also been an increase in the male population seeking aesthetic treatments such as waxing, facials, botox and fillers.
As for the advanced treatments of the removal of warts and skin tags, with the financial pressures on the NHS, removal of these cosmetic unsightly growths are not being covered by the local GP. They can however be safely removed by Jessica, an experienced clinical aesthetician. Please contact her on 01903 507910 or 01903 742487
Sarah Collins Massage Therapist
Do you remember when you were li le and fell over and scraped your knee? Do you remember your mum or dad rubbing it be er? Well, that would have been your first, albeit basic, massage!
I’m sure it was those memories that gave me my interest in massage and becoming a massage therapist. When I qualified, I had to fit massages around my full‐ me job. Two years later, I became very ill and almost died. While in Intensive Care, the nurses used to rub cream into my feet; that feeling of human touch, whilst I was a ached to machines, brought me so much comfort. As a result of my illness, I ended up in a wheelchair and a er months of rehabilita on, thought being a massage therapist was no longer an op on.
I missed giving that therapy so when some of my clients pointed out that I could s ll offer some treatments, I decided to see what I could manage. Jump forward twenty‐something years, although s ll in a wheelchair, I am able to offer a full range of massage therapy treatments.
During Covid, one thing people said they missed most was not being able to hug a loved one – that very basic need of human touch. Massage comes in many forms but each one of them offers so many benefits.
A few quotes from some of my clients: “You have such a soothing way with you.” “The only me I feel properly relaxed is a er a massage from you.” “You really have magic hands!” And the joy of being a massage therapist is that I also feel relaxed a er giving a massage.
To book a massage at Sarah’s Li lehampton Massage Studio ring 07941 162076 or email sarahlouisegc@gmail.com.
Why I love what I do
By Emma Bryan, Dental Hygienist and Therapist
My diverse professional background, which has afforded me the opportunity to travel to and explore over 40 countries, has reinforced a fundamental observa on: the smile is a universal symbol. It is one of the few gestures understood across cultures and languages, consistently signifying joy, happiness, goodwill, and well‐being.
In my role as a dental hygienist and therapist, I am dedicated to ensuring that smiles remain healthy. Since their introduc on to general dental prac ces in 2003, dental therapists have become an increasingly integral part of the dental team. These professionals collaborate closely with den sts to provide comprehensive pa ent care. Dental therapists are trained to perform a range of services, including scaling and polishing, periodontal treatments, rou ne restora ve procedures, dental impressions, and radiographic examina ons, with a strong emphasis on dental health educa on. This wide scope of prac ce not only alleviates the workload of den sts but also enables them to focus on more complex cases. Furthermore, the collabora ve approach fosters a mul disciplinary model of care, benefi ng pa ents through the collec ve exper se of the en re dental team. Addi onally, pa ents benefit from referrals to dental therapists as it improves access to care, reduces wait mes, and promotes long‐term oral health within the community by emphasising preven ve care and safeguarding future smiles.
Dental anxiety, which can begin in childhood, frequently persists into adulthood. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is assis ng anxious pa ents, helping them feel at ease by offering both hygiene care and restora ve treatments. I find that pa ents o en appreciate the con nuity of care, as a trus ng bond is established when they can work with the same clinician at their own pace. I take great pride in listening to my pa ents, tailoring their care to address long‐term dental anxiety, and ensuring that they feel comfortable throughout their treatment journey.
Recognising the uniqueness of each individual and their specific needs, I strongly advocate for a personalised, collabora ve approach to care. It is essen al that pa ents feel involved and understood in their treatment process.
Effec ve communica on is cri cal in fostering an environment where pa ents feel valued and heard, par cularly when shared care is a feature of dental prac ce. I believe that pa ents deserve to be ac ve par cipants in their treatment, fully understanding their care needs and op ons. This is where oral health educa on plays a pivotal role.
As both a dental hygienist and therapist, I am commi ed to ensuring that pa ents leave the clinic not only with their immediate treatment needs addressed, but also with the knowledge to care for their oral health in the long term. Whether it is guidance on home care, preven ve strategies to avoid decay, instruc ons for managing a new implant, or post‐opera ve care for a restora on, I encourage my pa ents to ask ques ons.
My goal is to foster an open, welcoming environment where pa ents feel well‐informed and confident in managing their oral health. Working at a dynamic prac ce such as Abbots Lodge enables me to collaborate with like‐minded and ambi ous dental care professionals in a cohesive and mul disciplinary manner to provide the highest standard of pa ent‐centred care. I feel truly valued in my role, and sharing a similar ethos with my colleagues fosters strong, trustworthy rela onships, allowing us to deliver op mal treatment for our pa ents.
Den stry is a con nuously evolving field, and working alongside passionate professionals not only supports my professional growth but also enables me to contribute to transforma ve and evidence‐based oral healthcare. A healthy smile is always a happy smile.
To book an appointment with Abbots Lodge Dental prac ce , contact 01903 783154 or visit www.abbotslodge.com
Back 2 Fitness Chiroprac c Clinic, Rus ngton by
Chiropractor and Owner Michelle Brennan
I have been a chiropractor for 23 years and my passion is helping people realise the poten al their body has to do more than just survive, it can thrive!
If you’re experiencing back pain, feeling older than your age or if you are looking for guidance on how to feel good, look good and move well, then chiroprac c might be what you are looking for.
I aspire to make a real difference to a pa ent’s life by relieving them of pain and enabling them to live their life to the full. I work to iden fy the cause of the pain and recommend a treatment plan to help achieve results and relief.
I realise that it’s not just about your pain though, it is about all the things that the pain prevents you from doing. For example, playing with your kids, going for a run, sleeping through the night or standing pain‐free at a party. To put it simply, back pain makes you feel old and it doesn’t have to be that way!
At Back 2 Fitness Chiroprac c Clinic we are here to help our clients move and feel be er through chiroprac c treatments, allowing them to get back to doing the things they love.
If you would like to make this your year and are interested in what Back 2 Fitness Chiroprac c Clinic may have to offer you, then call us on 01903 775577 to book your appointment.
We are based at 5B Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rus ngton BN16 3DA. Please call 01903 775577 or visit www.back2fitness.biz
How much Inheritance Tax will we pay if we are not married?
Stephen Sampson, Head of Private Client at Monan Gozze LLP, looks at how Inheritance Tax affects couples who are not married or in a civil partnership.
UK Inheritance Tax rules give an enormous tax break to couples who are married or in a civil partnership. Anything le by one UK spouse to another is exempt from Inheritance Tax with no limit. This tax break does not apply to other couples. The changes from the Budget last October will make the situa on worse. Do also remember that if an unmarried couple do not have Wills and one dies, the surviving partner has no legal right to inherit from their partner’s estate.
If one partner in an unmarried couple dies, his/her estate includes his/her share of any jointly owned assets (e.g. property and bank accounts). If that partner has a Will leaving everything to the other partner only a maximum of £325,000 is exempt from Inheritance Tax. The value above £325,000 is taxed at 40%.
Currently, an unmarried partner’s pension and any death‐in‐service benefit from their employer is not taxed when they die.
From 6th April 2027, the Inheritance Tax posi on will get a lot worse. From that date, pensions (except for final salary pensions) and death‐in‐service benefits will be subject to Inheritance Tax. Take as an example, Simon and Jane. They have Wills leaving everything to each other. They have a house in joint names worth £500,000 with a £300,000 mortgage, joint savings of £50,000, life insurance to pay off the mortgage if one of them dies and pensions worth £200,000 each.
If Simon dies before 6th April 2027, his estate for Inheritance Tax will be £425,000. This is half of the equity in the house and half of the savings, plus all the life insurance money. The first £325,000 is exempt from Inheritance Tax. The remaining £100,000 is taxed at 40%, giving a tax bill of £40,000 that will cost Jane almost all their savings.
If Simon dies on or a er 6th April 2027, his £200,000 pension policy will be included for Inheritance Tax. That means another £80,000 of Inheritance Tax. Jane will receive only £120,000 from Simon’s £200,000 pension. That could severely affect Jane’s re rement plans and she may not be able to re re when she wants to.
So, what is the advice from me, as an expert in Wills and Inheritance Tax? If you are an unmarried couple and want to inherit from each other, you must make Wills. If you do not want to have to pay Inheritance Tax when one of you dies, you must get married or form a civil partnership.
However, there are other issues to consider that we do not have space for here. If you are an unmarried couple, why not book a free ini al appointment with me to discuss your own situa on and the op ons available to you? You can contact me by calling Monan Gozze LLP on 01903 927055, or by email ssampson@monangozze .com. Appointments are available at our Arundel office, at your home, or by video call.
Teriyaki and Lime‐glazed Chicken Wings
Prepara on me: 10 mins
Cooking me: 40‐45 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
2 tbsp rice flour (or subs tute baking powder)
900g chicken wings, pat dry with kitchen paper
4 tbsp soy sauce
2 garlic cloves, finely diced
Thumb‐sized piece of ginger, finely chopped
4 tbsp light so brown sugar
1 tbsp cornflour
1 lime, zested and juiced
2 spring onions, sliced
1 red chilli, seeds removed and finely chopped
Jasmine rice to serve
Method
Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 8. Line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper. Place the dry chicken wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle over the rice flour or baking powder and mix well with your hands un l the chicken wings are coated. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread the coated wings across the baking tray in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes.
While the chicken is cooking, make the teriyaki glaze. Into a small pan add the soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar and 150ml water. Cook over a medium heat for 4‐5 minutes un l the glaze is bubbling and slightly thickened. Mix two tbsp of the glaze with the cornflour, then pour the mixture back into the pot, whisking con nuously. Simmer for 2‐3 minutes un l thickened. Squeeze in the lime juice. Remove the chicken wings from the oven at 20 minutes and p them into a bowl. Reserve a few tablespoons of the glaze and pour the rest over the wings, making sure they’re well‐coated. Spread them over the baking tray again and return to the oven for another 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven, top with the reserved glaze, then sprinkle with the lime zest, spring onions and chilli. Serve with fluffy jasmine rice.
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Gardening Jobs in March
March is a lovely month. It can also be a challenging one for the gardener with winter o en reluctant to release us from her grip. The sun is ge ng stronger and plants, insects, birds and small mammals are busying themselves for the longer, warmer days to come as are some unwanted pests.
The vegetable plot The early potatoes that you have been chi ng need to be planted, as do onion or shallot sets. As the potatoes sprout, be watchful of poten al frosts and hoe up and cover accordingly. If the forecast is mild, think about sowing broad beans, peas, carrots and beetroot. Spinach and summer cabbage and cauliflower can also be sown outdoors along with some le uces.
Flower borders March is the perfect me to plant summer flowering bulbs such as gladioli and lilies. Because the weather in March can be variable, consider sowing summer flowering annuals such as nico ana, petunias, marigolds and salvias in the greenhouse or cold frame. Hardy annuals such as stocks, sunflowers and poppies are by their very nature less affected by variable temperature and weather condi ons and if you have a sunny area in your garden should grow well.
Pest preven on March is the me when garden pests surge. And although some pests have a vital role to play in gardens, we are all aware that, as well as our plants springing to life in March, our friend the slug is also feeling the urge to fill his tummy on our newly planted seedlings. I favour op ng for natural pest control as slug pellets can have a wider impact than just killing the pests you are trying to deter and have a nega ve effect on wildlife.
There are many natural ways to try and deter slugs. Slugs do not like to eat all plants including foxgloves, lavender and roses. They also do not seem too keen on my favourite, cosmos. But as slugs do love some plants, perhaps consider placing a barrier around tender plants. You can buy slug barriers at nurseries or garden centres, or you could try eggshells or sharp grit. You could also try and trap slugs with beer traps, small dishes sunk into the ground filled with beer — I find they really like real ale!
Highdown Gardens
by Alex Luff, Head Gardener/Curator
Perhaps you already know Highdown Gardens. Perhaps you’ve never even been. Maybe you have visited our verdant chalk hill many mes over the years. You might see it as a place to come and sit and think, a place to bring the family for a walk or somewhere to use as inspira on for your garden at home.
It could be that you know all about its storied history. Then again, you might have visited never knowing anything about Frederick and Sybil Stern, the Edwardian power couple who brought panache, cash and aristocra c London style to the humble Sussex coast.
Over six decades, the Sterns created a garden of interna onal renown. Thanks to their network of plant collec ng syndicates, botanical experts, royalty, hor cultural bodies, interna onal contacts and plant hunters, they were able to bring together plants from around the world; these came from the globe’s limestone hotspots. They swapped plant material with other collectors and enthusiasts. They bred new crea ons from these exci ng introduc ons to the country’s exis ng hor cultural landscape. Through their experimenta on, we now have a vastly greater understanding of what can be achieved when plan ng on chalk.
The Sterns formed the Highdown Trust so that their crea on would be preserved and looked a er long past their mortal meframe. Since then, the garden has been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people from local areas and much further afield, such was the legacy that the Sterns le So many people have formed a strong connec on to this leafy treasure. There is a reason for this. When something is created from nature with love and care, the gentle a en on that brought it into life is communicated to those that amble along its paths, that find themselves nestled in the li le rooms of which the garden is comprised. All that being said, since the Sterns passed that mantle, those that took it planted too many trees and shrubs. The team that is here are now focused on reducing the numbers of large
specimens so that the Stern plant collec on can have the space to grow in the way that is natural. They need room to breathe and find the light they need. They have to be strong to exist as it is a hard life for a plant on chalk.
Come and experience the garden for yourselves with our famous peony tours taking place on 30th April or 1st May. Or book yourself onto one of our monthly general tours star ng from 27th March. See our website for details: h ps://highdowngardens.co.uk We
Annual Village Gardens Compe on 2025
Now is the me to start thinking about this year’s Rus ngton Parish Council Gardens Compe on, which is divided into the following Classes:‐
Class 1 ‐ Window Boxes, Balconies and Pa o Tubs etc. (Residen al)*
Class 2 ‐ Window Boxes, Balconies and Pa o Tubs etc. (Commercial)*
Class 3 ‐ Front Gardens of Any Size, including Paved Gardens with Pa o Tubs (Residen al)*
Class 4 ‐ Front Gardens of Any Size (Commercial)*
Class 5 ‐ Schools’ Compe on Class 6 ‐ Community Gardens
*Entries must be clearly visible from the road.
Parishioners and local businesses are encouraged to start thinking about their plan ng plans now so that they can nominate either themselves, their neighbours, or any members of the local community for the compe on. Nomina on forms will be available from local shops, the Parish Council Offices, the Samuel Wickens Centre plus the Council’s
website from Tuesday 6th May. The closing date for the receipt of nomina ons will be Friday 27th June.
The unannounced judging will take place during the week commencing Monday 7th July (subject to judges availability). It is an cipated that the judging panel will comprise of the chairman and vice‐chairman of the Parish Council and a representa ve from Ferring Nurseries, the Council’s contractor for the plan ng and maintenance of its amenity areas.
Each class winner and runner‐up receives a monetary prize together with a small memento or shield. Class winners are also presented with a trophy/cup/shield to hold for one year only.
The award presenta ons are made at a recep on following the Annual Civic Thanksgiving Service, in the autumn. Further details will be published in the next issue.
Mother’s Day at NGS Garden
With Mother’s Day coming up at the end of March, why not take Mum on a Mother’s Day treat to the Na onal Garden Scheme garden, Peeler’s Retreat in Arundel.
Mother’s Day is the tradi onal me of year to give mums a day off from doing the mul tude of daily jobs they’re usually tasked with. And what be er way to say thank you than to treat her to a wonderful garden visit with a delicious cup of tea and a slice of cake! It makes a change from the tradi onal flowers and chocolates and gives you all a chance to create a special memory. For country wide NGS gardens opening during the Mother’s Day weekend, visit h ps://ngs.org.uk/a‐garden‐treat‐perfect‐for‐mothers‐day Peelers
Retreat, Arundel — open
Mothering Sunday 30th March, and 5th, 15th, 19th, 29th
April (2‐4pm)
Admission £5, children free. Homemade teas. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. See website for more open days.
If you can’t make 30th March, there are nine other lovely gardens you can visit in West Sussex in March and April.
Manor of Dean, Tillington — 9th March (2‐5pm) and 27th April (2‐5pm)
Admission £5, children free. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. Teas.
Crosslands Flower Nursery, Walberton — 4th and 11th March (10am‐12pm)
A two hour all access tour. Admission £10, children free. Book in advance essen al on the NGS website.
Denmans Garden, Fontwell — 16th March and 27th April (11am‐4pm)
Admission £10, children £8. Pre‐booking essen al, please phone 01243 278950, email office@denmans.org or visit www.denmans.org for informa on and booking. Light refreshments. Also, open Sunday 26th October.
Down Place, South Har ng — 22nd and 23rd March (1.30‐5.30pm)
Admission £5, children free. Homemade teas and cream teas. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. Also, open Sunday 15th, Monday 16th June (1.30‐5.30pm).
The Old Vicarage, Washington — 1st April (10am‐5pm) and every Thursday to 2nd October (10am‐4pm)
Admissions are £8, children free. Pre‐booking essen al, visit the NGS website for informa on and booking. Self‐service light refreshments (cash only) and picnics welcome. Monday 21st April, Monday 26th May, Sunday 27th July, Monday 25th August (10am‐5pm). Admission £8, children free. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. Homemade teas. Rymans, Apuldram — 12th and 13th April
Admission £6, children free. Tea, coffee and cake at St Mary’s Church, Apuldram. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. Also, open Sunday 22nd June and Sunday 14th September (2‐5pm).
Sandhill Farm House, Rogate — 12th and 13th April (1‐4pm)
Admission £8, children free. Homemade teas. Pay on the day.
New mber Place, New mber — 13th Apr il (2‐5.30pm)
Admission £7, children free. Homemade teas. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day.
Judy’s Co age Garden, Worthing — 18th April (10.30am‐3.30pm)
Admission £5, children free. Tea, coffee and cake. Book in advance on the NGS website or pay on the day. Also, open Saturday 21st June. To learn more about the NGS and other gardens opening in Sussex, pick up a copy of The Na onal Garden Scheme Sussex Booklet, available free from many local stores, garden centres and libraries from the end of February and as an online Flip Book: h ps://issuu.com/ levelcrea ve/docs/sussex_2025_flipbook
The Angmering Chorale
The Angmering Chorale held its final concert under the baton of George Jones on 25th November last year. The choir and soloists performed The Messiah to a packed and very appreciative Arundel Cathedral audience and, at the end, George was given a wonderful send off after his many years of service to the Chorale.
the challenges and joys of singing different styles of music. It has been great getting to know Dominic and work with him and our new accompanist, Olly.
Since January, the new Angmering Chorale has been rehearsing for our next concert with Dominic Grier (pictured right). We have lost some members, who decided it was an appropriate time for them to go, and gained others who have really enjoyed being made welcome at our rehearsals each Thursday at 7.30pm in the Angmering Community Centre in Bramley Green. We have been practising some brand‐new material, unfamiliar to some of us, and relished
We are all looking forward to performing our first concert with them and our organist, in a new venue: St Margaret’s Church, Angmering on Saturday 12th April at 7.30pm.
The concert, Choral Classics, is a selection of anthems, songs, and choruses, presented by our new Musical Director. More information at www.theangmeringchorale.org.uk/Programme where you can also buy tickets for £10 each. These can also be purchased at our box office, call 01903 783918.
We are currently planning our next concert for the second half of June both musical content and venue so do watch out for updates on our website and in the What’s On section of All About magazines.
We want our repertoire to extend to a wide range of music, which the choir will love singing and our audiences will enjoy, and we want our rehearsals and concerts to be friendly, as well as professional. Come and join us! It’s great to be part of something new and exciting as well as continuing a choral tradition stretching back almost 50 years firmly rooted in our expanding village community.
Spiders Web
The Rus ngton Players will be performing Spiders Web by Agatha Chris e at the Woodlands Centre, Rus ngton from 12th –15th March 2025 at 7.30pm. Doors open 7pm. Tickets available now from cketsource.co.uk/ rusingtonplayers or call 07546 306 438
Clarissa is the wife of a diplomat and is adept at spinning tales of adventure, but when a murder takes place in her drawing room she finds live drama much harder to cope with. Desperate to dispose of the body before her husband arrives with an important poli cian, she enlists the help of her guests. They are interrupted by the arrival of wry Inspector Lord.
This was Agatha Chris e’s second of her many murder mysteries and the second longest‐running surpassed only by The Mousetrap. It is a conscious parody of the detec ve thriller, and delivers Chris e’s unique blend of suspense and humour. There is tension and laughter in equal parts in an intricate plot of murder, police, drug addicts, hidden doorways and secret drawers. For more informa on, contact Vinny Shepherd, Publicity, on 07863 698552.
Project to install Changing Places facili es in
Arun now complete
The grant‐funded project to install six Changing Places Toilets across the district is now complete — with an addi onal two planned for this year.
Changing Places toilets (CPTs) are larger accessible toilets for disabled people, with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult‐sized changing benches and space for carers. Without these life‐changing facili es, the disabled people who rely on them o en face the stark choice of being changed on a toilet floor or staying at home.
The new facili es can be found at Arun Leisure Centre in Felpham, The Wave in Li lehampton, Arundel Wetland Centre, Crown Yard car park in Arundel, Hotham Park in Bognor Regis and The Street in Rus ngton.
Another is being built at Coastguards toilets as part of the Li lehampton Seafront Scheme and the final CPT is planned as part of the Alexandra Theatre renova on in Bognor Regis.
The project to install the much‐needed facili es was delivered using £227,000 government grant funding, plus contribu ons from Arun District Council, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT), and Rus ngton Parish Council. Prior to this investment, the only Changing Places toilet locally was at The Aldingbourne Country Centre near Chichester.
Councillor Sue Wallsgrove, Chair of the Environment Commi ee at Arun District Council, said, “We are delighted to see this project completed with all six facili es now open and being regularly used. The daily reality for thousands of disabled people and their
families is facing the indignity of being changed on the floor of a public toilet, so these facili es
offer a solu on.
We’ve had some great feedback about how they’re making a difference to the lives of the people who need them, which really demonstrates how vital this project was.
“In addi on, we are building two more CPT toilets as part of two exci ng projects being delivered in the district – the Li lehampton Seafront Scheme and the transforma on of the Alexandra Theatre in Bognor Regis. We recognise that having the facili es at these two key sites will allow disabled people and their families and carers more op ons when deciding where to visit.”
A er their CPT was fi ed, Arundel Wetland Centre was reviewed by a member of EuansGuide.com, a website that aims to empower disabled people by providing informa on that will give confidence when out and about. In the review, it was described as a ‘perfect place to visit’
To find out more about Changing Places toilets, or to locate a facility, visit www.changing‐places.org
A Night to Remember with
Phab Friends Worthing!
What an incredible evening it was. Suspiciously Elvis brought the house down, performing for over 40 disabled adults, their families, friends, and carers. The energy, the music and the joy were simply unforge able!
We’re Phab Friends Worthing, part of a na onal charity dedicated to crea ng an inclusive world for disabled adults. Our mission? To foster a community where everyone feels welcome, supported, and celebrated. Together, we socialise, laugh, and create memories — with families, friends, and carers always included.
Our popular monthly First Club at West Worthing Social Club is all about arts and cra s, karaoke, and other fun‐filled ac vi es. But that’s not all! Our brand‐new Second Club, supported by Guild Care at Methold House, brings live, upbeat music to the forefront, offering a safe and vibrant space where dancing, singing, and fun take centre stage.
On Wednesday 29th January, Suspiciously Elvis wowed the crowd at Methold House. The connec on he had with the crowd was truly wonderful! There was ample space for wheelchairs,
numerous cosy cabaret‐style sea ng areas and our very own Phab Snack Shack serving refreshments. It was an event that had something for everyone.
At Phab Friends Worthing, we’re driven by a passionate team of volunteers who each care for someone with a disability. We work to create diverse, inclusive social occasions for adults of all abili es. Our clubs are designed to bring people together, celebra ng our strengths, and build friendships in a welcoming, suppor ve environment. And our live events are so popular, ckets sell out within 24 hours!
Whatever your needs, we’re here to ensure you have a great me and make las ng memories.
For more informa on, join us and experience the fun for yourself. Let’s keep building an inclusive future together.
For more informa on, call 07396 702204
Email: phabfriendsworthing@gmail.com
Facebook: Phab Friends Worthing Facebook
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The Art Society Arun
Are you interested in finding out more about the arts in the company of like‐minded people? Time to spare to enjoy a ending outstanding lectures and to tour fascina ng places with expert guides? If so, why not consider The Arts Society Arun! We’re a friendly group that meets ten mornings a year at the Woodlands Centre in Rus ngton for lectures on each and every aspect of the arts, including ar sts past and present, sculpture, drama, tex les, history of art, architecture and music.
Our speakers are all highly experienced and knowledgeable, and are accredited by The Na onal Arts Society, a charity of which we’re a local branch. Our varied lecture programme for 2025 will include such diverse topics as Calcu a, The Mosaics of Ravenna, and a Brief History of the Piano and Mozart, among many other intriguing topics.
We also make visits to places of cultural interest. In the past these have included the studio of the local sculptor Philip Jackson, the Houses of Parliament, a backstage tour of the Chichester Fes val Theatre and Stra ield Saye, the home of the Duke of Wellington and his descendants. In 2025, we will be visi ng The Royal Courts of Jus ce, and Michelham Priory. We also hold an annual Day of Special Interest, which is a lively and sociable event that gives us a chance to explore a subject in more depth. This year’s event is on Wednesday 26th March, and is tled Laughter and Loss – Bri sh War Ar sts in WWII. This is a par cularly per nent topic as it is the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII.
At the outbreak of war, Na onal Gallery director Kenneth Clark set up a scheme whereby the Bri sh Government employed ar sts to record the war effort from Eric Ravilious to Edward Ardizzone to Laura Knight and Evelyn Dunbar, a remarkable group of ar sts created an unforge able and immensely varied body of work.
Our speaker, James Russell, is an author, curator and art historian: he also contributed to Margy Kinmonth’s new film Eric Ravilious: Drawn to War, so he is eminently qualified to guide us through this wide‐ranging collec on. Doors open at 10am for coffee, with the first hour‐long lecture, Dunkirk and the Ba le of Britain, star ng at 10.30. a er a short break, the second lecture from 11.45 to 12.45 is The Blitz and the Home Front. We then break for a
two‐course lunch with a glass of wine or a so drink. The third lecture on D‐Day and the War Further Afield is from 14.15 to 15.15. We then have 15 minutes of ques ons, before wrapping up the day at 15.30. Tickets cost £41 and include all refreshments. Booking forms are available on our website www.theartssocietyarun.org.
Our Society is passionate about local arts, and is able to support local groups with community grants and volunteers for various projects. Membership fees are £45 per annum, but you are also very welcome to come to any lectures that appeal to you for a visitor’s fee of £7. To find out more, visit our website ww.theartssocietyarun.org, and keep an eye on the Events pages for upcoming talks.
LPOS Musical Produc ons celebrates 70 years
This year marks the 70th anniversary of one of the oldest established amateur theatrical companies in Li lehampton. LPOS Musical Produc ons (known for most of its life as Li lehampton Players Opera c Society) came into being in 1955, born out of a desire to expand performing opportuni es in the town.
Li lehampton Musical Comedy Society had been established two years earlier, but a keen interest in opere a, specifically those of Gilbert and Sullivan, galvanised the launch of a new company. LPOS hit the ground running with a concert called ‘Gaiety Galore’ in 1955, followed by their first fully staged show, Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘Pa ence’, in 1956. However, despite these early successes, it was not an easy start.
The fledgling company’s first few years were beset with cas ng difficul es and financial challenges in part because Li lehampton did not then have a suitable theatre. The Windmill Entertainment Centre did not yet exist, so shows usually took place at Wick Hall, which was too small to sell enough ckets to recoup necessary costs like costumes, venue hire, performing rights, scenery, and advertising.
However, the local theatrical community rallied around, with companies like the Li lehampton Musical Comedy Society, Li lehampton Drama c Society, and Rus ngton Players generously lending their own lights and curtains un l LPOS became more established. This early support was vital to LPOS’ survival and has not been forgo en – a spirit of coopera on and inclusion remains at the heart of the company’s work today.
A key development came in the late 1960s when the seafront shelter was turned into a theatre then known as the Western Pavilion, transforming not only Li lehampton’s seafront, but also LPOS’ fortunes. The company eagerly accepted a slot at the new venue, staging ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ in 1968, and since then, the Windmill has become LPOS’ much‐loved main home, hos ng over 100 of their shows to date. The much greater sea ng capacity finally allowed the company to become self‐sufficient, and having access to a larger and more flexible performance space also encouraged LPOS to
broaden their repertoire, exploring opere as beyond those of Gilbert and Sullivan and, by the 1990s, adding musicals to the mix.
To reflect this more diverse programme, last year the company was renamed LPOS Musical Produc ons. Recent produc ons have ranged from classic musicals like ‘Me and My Girl’ and ‘The Pajama Game’ to more modern fare, but its love of G&S s ll persists, with a very successful run of ‘Iolanthe’ last autumn.
This eclec c approach con nues as LPOS enters its 70th year. The company’s birthday celebra ons begin in vibrant style with ‘Li le Shop Of Horrors’ running at the Windmill from 2nd to 5th April, while 21st June will feature a special concert performance of ‘Pa ence’, in a nod to the company’s first‐ever show. A full staging of ‘Hello, Dolly!’ will follow in October, and a host of other events are planned. Keep an eye on www.lpos.org for more details.
Just as community spirit was crucial to LPOS’ early success, today the company emphasises a warm, inclusive atmosphere, working to break down barriers that might prevent people from taking part in amateur theatre. LPOS aim to give people from all backgrounds and of all abili es and levels of experience a chance to get involved, whether on stage, backstage, or in a crea ve role so that they can enjoy the well‐being, confidence, prac cal skills, and sense of belonging that performing brings. To that end, membership (open to anyone aged 16+) costs are deliberately kept low, at £30 pa.
If you have ever thought about treading the boards or working behind the scenes, do get in touch by emailing enquiries@lpos.org. There is always lots to do, and you will always be welcome. This is a friendly society where members are team players and you o en find two (if not three!) genera ons of the same family taking part in produc ons.
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Just a floor slab
in
the chancel of Rus ngton Church by Rus ngton historian Graeme Taylor
Maybe you have never walked inside the parish church and never seen the floor slabs, or perhaps you’re a regular churchgoer who, before the re‐ordering of the church in 2015, would have walked many mes over these slabs in the nave. If the la er, have you ever wondered who these early residents were who were buried here?
One of these you can s ll make out the name of is Roger Barwick. His story begins about 340 years ago, in 1682, when Roger, a young Sussex gentleman of Up Marden, came to Rus ngton to live a er marrying Elizabeth Upperton at the church on 19th February 1682.
Sadly, Richard and Elizabeth’s life together was tragic. Their first son, Roger, died aged two in 1685. The following year, Elizabeth was born, but only three days later, she died too. Some four years later, in 1690, Roger had a house built and a date plaque set on the wall.
The couple tried again to start a family with equally disastrous results as follows:
1690 John lived three months.
1692 Thomas three months.
1693 Richard two months.
1695 Roger six months.
1696 Mary five years.
1698 Amy was born, the only child to become an adult and to marry.
1700 Elizabeth two months .
1703 Richard 12 years 8 months.
Roger Barwick himself died in April 1705 and is buried under the nave, along with his eight very young children and his wife Elizabeth, who died in 1728.
In his will he le 30 shillings to the poor of Rus ngton and similar amounts to the poor of Compton and Up Marden. He le his lands and tenements to his son Richard and £700 to his daughter Amy. As his son Richard died in 1715, the estate came to Amy at the age of 18 or at her marriage, whichever was the sooner. Roger’s widow would have received all the
rents and profits of the lands and tenements, too, in jointure.
Amy Barwick married John Gratwick, a gentleman of Arundel, in 1725 at Poling Church. They had one daughter, Mary, who eventually inherited all the money, the house, farm, barns, granary and about 120 acres of land in Rus ngton. We do not know if Mary ever lived in the house, but several years later, she rented the house and farm to Abraham Hobbs and his family. Mr Hobbs was an overseer of the poor relief for Rus ngton and was a farmer by trade. Mary remained unmarried and went to live with her friend Henry Campion in Hurstpierpoint. Mary died in 1809, leaving her en re estate to Henry Campion.
Campion sold the estate to Edward Greenfield Penfold of Rus ngton House in 1810‐11. The walls of the old flint and brick house, now a listed building, are mellowed and extended, and the farm with its barns and cows has long gone. However, the inscribed plaque that Roger Barwick had set up on the wall of the house with the le ers B for Barwick, R and E for Roger and Elizabeth, and underneath the date 1690, is s ll there.
The house in ques on is known today as Hobbs Farm, Sea Lane.
Shopmobility Manager re res a er 20 years
Long‐serving manager recalls the history of the charity — and of her many years involved.
By June Caffyn
I finally re red on New Year’s Eve 2024 a er working as the manager of Li lehampton Shopmobility for all but six years of the charity’s 26 years in existence! Some people have asked me why I stayed so long in the same job and the answer is that it was the best job I have ever had, as I was never bored! I wore several hats, including shop, office, fundraising, and helping with the accounts. Indeed, even on quiet days, I always found plenty to keep me occupied.
Many of our nice, loyal customers also made it so worthwhile to work there and I especially liked that I was working for a local charity.
Way back in 1998, I started off as a general assistant at Shopmo (as we all like to call the charity for short!), but a er six years, I le to work elsewhere. However, a er working for a few years at my new place, I was reading the local newspaper some me in April 2010 and no ced that the manager’s job at Li lehampton Shopmobility was being adver sed. I recalled how much I had enjoyed working there and applied for the job. Well, I was delighted when I was offered the post straight a er having the interview way back in May 2010.
During my years as manager, I found that the best of mes working there were when former local Councillor and our then‐Town Council Representa ve, Alan Gammon, was voted in as Shopmo’s chairman in 2014, as he achieved so much in his years at the helm, including saving the charity money with his many cost‐cu ng ideas. Also, during Alan’s almost ten years as chairman, the charity was shortlisted for four consecutive years for a Tom Hillier Shopmobility of the Year Award. Another wonderful surprise was being presented with the Li lehampton Town Council’s Merit Award in 2018.
Alan re red as chairman at the September 2023 AGM and he was then asked to become honorary president of Li lehampton Shopmobility, which he accepted, so the team is happy that he is s ll involved.
As a qualified bookkeeper, Alan also had taken on the role of temporary volunteer‐treasurer just un l another treasurer could be found and at the September 2024 AGM, we were all thrilled to welcome back our formerly re red trustee‐treasurer, Richard Wilkins.
A couple of weeks before I re red, I was offered and accepted the posi on of honorary vice‐president [see the photo above with le to right, Lucy Batchelor, myself and Alan Gammon]. So I will s ll be involved with the charity. Incidentally, this is one of the smaller Shopmobilitys in the UK and it has always meant so much to me over these many years!
I am delighted that Lucy replaced me as the new manager in January and that Cllr Alan Butcher became the new chairman in the September 2024 AGM. The trustees and the volunteers are the lifeblood of the charity, and they are all very much appreciated. However, Li lehampton Shopmobility is s ll in need of at least two more trustees and volunteers, so if anyone reading this is interested in these roles, please contact Lucy on 01903 733004 for more informa on.
Thank you to all of the team who helped me at Li lehampton Shopmobility.
Celebra ng Community Heroes 2025
Worthing Community Awards 29th May at Rooms Worthing
The Worthing Community Awards are back, and this year, we are excited to recognise and celebrate the remarkable individuals and organisa ons that make outstanding contribu ons to our community. This year, we are thrilled to announce new categories, such as The Young Community Hero Award and the Community Hero Award for Emergency Services.
Founder, Melanie Peters from Rocket Social Media, expressed her enthusiasm: “The 2024 awards were such a success that we are doing it again. We look forward to honouring the incredible people who dedicate their me and energy to making Worthing a be er place. They are dedicated to my friend Millie Stoner, whose life was cut short from a brain tumour aged 18.”
The 2025 awards will feature an array of categories, each sponsored by local businesses and organisa ons commi ed to suppor ng the community. Categories include:
1. Disability Awareness Award ‐ Sponsored by George Dowell MBE, Worthing Football Club
2. Fundraiser of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Jim Jams Catering
3. Charity/Charitable Organisa on of the Year ‐ Sponsored by VP Photography
4. Carer of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Roz Cloke, Partners in Wine
5. Young Carer of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Worthing Carpet Cleaning Company
6. Dad of the Year (in memory of David Sawyer) ‐ Sponsored by FREUND
7. Mum of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Riverside South Downs
8. Best Sibling (in memory of Millie Stoner) ‐ Sponsored by Enzos Italian Restaurant
9. Teacher of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Worthing High School
10. Volunteer of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Quality Kwik Dry Cleaners
11. Community Hero Award for Emergency Services ‐ Sponsored by A Star Group
12. Sports Team of the Year ‐ Sponsored by Fix Your iPhone
13. Community Hero Award ‐ Sponsored by James and James Estate Agent
14. Young Community Hero ‐ Sponsored by The Dharma Clinic
15. Outstanding Contribu on to Worthing
Award ‐ Sponsored by Worthing Pride
16. Judges Choice Award ‐ Sponsored by Pinnacle
The event will take place on 29th May at Rooms Worthing, bringing together community members to celebrate the spirit of Worthing. Charity Partner Superstar Arts
The esteemed judging panel features:
Simon Margaraoli – Managing Director, Indigo Bar and Bistro and Arrington Hotel
Bob Smytherman – Worthing and Adur Town Crier
Nicci Parish – Founder of Billy & Beyond
Greg Grundy – Owner of The Egremont, Worthing
Nomina ons for the awards are now open, and we encourage everyone to par cipate by recognising those who have made a difference in our community. To submit a nomina on, visit www.worthingcommunityawards.co.uk/ nominate/
The deadline for nomina ons is Friday 25th April. Join us in honouring the individuals and organisa ons that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Worthing.
Alison Griffiths MP
Bognor Regis and Li lehampton
Elected in 2024, Alison Griffiths is the Member of Parliament for Bognor Regis and Li lehampton. She grew up in Surrey and Sussex, and a ended the University of Warwick. While there, she contracted bacterial meningi s and lost 70 per cent of her hearing. She came out the other side to focus on how she could make a difference in the world, and is an ambassador and former trustee for Meningi s Now. Before entering Parliament, Alison worked in senior roles for global businesses, including pensions provider Aviva and Coca‐Cola. In later years, she focused on technology and advised the government on fintech and cybersecurity. As the Member of Parliament for Bognor Regis and Li lehampton, Alison is dedicated to addressing important local issues, such as flooding and sewage discharges. She strives to make our high streets safer, and to leverage her business experience to advocate for the condi ons needed for businesses to thrive. What do you like best about Rus ngton and Li lehampton? It’s got to be the beach and the sea. I’m an ac ve swimmer and love swimming in the sea, although, I haven’t been able to do much of that recently. The latest water quality ra ngs make me determined to do all I can to get organisa ons and groups together to resolve sewage discharges once and for all. It’s also the community feel we have here. There are so many incredible organisa ons and businesses on our doorstep like Li lehampton Community Fridge, Pier Road Coffee and Art, Barkers Electrical, and Flowers of Rus ngton. Each adds their own character and makes it such a great community.
Where is your favourite place to go in and around Li lehampton and Rus ngton? I love taking my four‐year‐old grandsons to Harbour Park. It is the best day out for all of us!
What is your favourite local restaurant? The Arun View has consistently deligh ul food. The Beach has my favourite view. I have had some lovely lunches at Fig Café in Rus ngton. All of them have always given me the warmest of welcomes. However, there are so many I haven’t yet tried. Please do share your recommenda ons. I will be doing all I can to support our en re hospitality sector.
What did you want to be when you grew up? I spent my childhood around animals and wanted to be a vet. However, Margaret Thatcher was elected for the first me when I was a child, and she ul mately provided the stronger inspira on for my current career. What is the best advice you have ever been given? There are always different ways to look at the same situa on. This helps me see things from other people’s perspec ves. But it also enables me to keep looking for the posi ves, and to find new solu ons to seemingly intractable problems.
What is the best job you have ever done? Without ques on, this one. It’s an enormous privilege to be the MP for Bognor Regis and Li lehampton, which now includes Rus ngton, too. People have put their trust in me and I’m working relessly to repay it. Whether it’s standing up for our area in parliament, raising cases directly with ministers, or mee ng the many people who are proud to call this part of West Sussex their home. It’s an honour and joy to have this job. It really is the best job I’ve ever had.
What do you do in your spare me? I don’t really have much spare me. I’m constantly out and about, mee ng people and visi ng incredible businesses, groups and local organisa ons. When I do though, I try and swim as much as possible, and play tennis
when I can. I love walking in the Downs with my husband Chris, and relaxing with yoga too. It is always wonderful to spend me with my young twin grandsons and my wider family.
What keeps you awake at night?
Under the last government, 100 per cent of storm ou lows were monitored by the me it le office. Improving water quality is one of the biggest issues facing us right now. Water bathing quality must be cleaned up, par cularly in areas like ours that rely on tourists to support our high streets and local economy.
Tackling flooding and sewage discharges is my number one priority. We’ve got to move further and faster to resolve it. I’m challenging organisa ons to do more and will con nue to speak out un l it’s resolved once and for all.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you? To never give up. When I was 19 I caught bacterial meningi s. I lost 70 per cent of my hearing, permanently. The doctors and nurses saved my life. I know I was lucky. I learned to hear again — just differently. It’s this lesson, never giving up, that drives my outlook on life. I was determined then to repay the service that others had given to me and make a difference in improving our society.
I want to ensure no one feels they are alone and that everyone feels their voice is being heard. I’m as determined as ever to do that. That’s why it’s my personal mission to work with as many disability groups and chari es as possible. To ensure their voices are heard and represented. I’ve already made progress on that, bringing their voices to parliament, but I want to do more. All while standing up for our area, and ensuring we are heard by this government.
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Worthing Fes val handed over to the community
A er two successful years, Worthing Borough Council has handed the town’s summer me celebra on of arts and culture over to the community.
Prepara ons for next year’s new‐look Worthing Fes val are now underway, with local crea ves having taken on the management of the celebra on for the first me. The fes val was inspired by conversa ons between the council and the town’s arts community, who were looking for a way to shine a light on the wealth of crea ve talent that Worthing has to offer.
A mul ‐arts fes val was decided upon and brought to life by Time for Worthing, the council's official tourism arm.
Following a huge effort from the fes val’s organisers, the inaugural celebra on took place in June 2023 and saw dozens of events covering music, art, heritage, comedy and family entertainment take place across the town.
More than 14,000 visitors were es mated to have visited the town centre over the eight‐day celebra on and the council was overwhelmed by the support for a second fes val following feedback from the town’s businesses and crea ve community.
This summer the town hosted an even bigger celebra on, featuring more than 100 events registered over two weeks in June. Thousands of locals and people from outside the region visited the town to enjoy live entertainment, talks, crea ve sessions and more.
To help the fes val grow year on year, the council has invited a group of the town’s arts community to take over its direc on. It had always been intended that the fes val would be owned by the community once it had
become well‐established, but council officers and members will con nue to offer support to the new organisers.
Councillor Dom Ford, Worthing’s cabinet member for communi es, culture and leisure, said: “We’ve had a blast organising the fes val with our talented arts community, but we feel that now is the right me for it to be owned and developed by the town.
“I would like to thank everyone that has been involved in helping the fes val go from an idea to a celebra on hos ng more than 100 events it’s testament to the amazing crea ves and venues we have across Worthing.
“I can’t wait to see what the community does next with the fes val and look forward to a ending many events next summer.”
Jennifer Le , member of The Worthing Fes val Group and co‐founder of Hand Brew Co, said: “The commi ee would like to thank Worthing Borough Council for their hard work producing the fes val over the last two years. We look forward to growing a successful, community‐led celebra on for residents, businesses and those visi ng our vibrant town. Our aim is to showcase the very best of Worthing and beyond.”
Local ar sts are being invited to create bold, vibrant artwork to represent the community‐run fes val’s first year. To find out more and apply by the 1st January 2026 deadline, visit: h ps://worthingfes val.org.uk
Arun Yacht Club
“Sailing gives you fresh air, freedom, friends and most of all, fun.”
Arun Yacht Club was formed as a family sailing club in 1956 on the west side of the river in Li lehampton, the design of the club burgee is the symbol of the east mark of the old harbour entrance against yellow to represent the golden sands of Li lehampton.
Fast forward to 2025 and the club is s ll going strong, offering a mix of cruiser sailing, dinghy sailing and powerboa ng opportuni es for those who want to get out on the water. A number of yachts ranging from 21 to 32 surround the club on the moorings while a mixed fleet of dinghies occupy the dinghy pen along with the club’s own training fleet of lasers, toppers and a few double‐handers.
The club publishes a programme with an impressive number of racing dates both cruiser and dinghy along with social events taking place and training dates for all ages. In addi on to this, the club house hosts a number of talks, the most recent being on the famous Clipper Race, but they cover all manner of topics from racing tac cs, understanding the des, and seamanship from very experienced people who have been there and done that.
If the above interests you, then visit h ps:// arunyc.co.uk/ or email Kayleigh in the office on secretary@arunyc.co.uk.
We will be hos ng our annual club open day on the a ernoon of Saturday 17th May at 1pm. Pop along to see what the club is like and have a try at sailing or powerboa ng (boat rides subject to weather and booking on the day).
Small and large screen entertainment this March
by Rob Bullock
With returning drama favourites and plenty of world‐class sport to entertain viewers, March is a great month for TV, and there are some brilliant cinema releases.
In many households, March is dominated by sports: Premier League football, boxing, rugby and cricket, not to men on the culmina on of the winter sports season. But there is also some serious drama returning to the small screens.
TV highlights
Unforgo en, Season Six, ITV1
Chris Lang’s eagerly awaited cold case masterpiece returns this spring a er 2023’s season five gave the drama quite a different feel. Many feel that seasons one to five of Unforgo en are probably some of the best Bri sh TV drama ever created, but the end of season four saw Nicola Walker’s character leave the show and new characters introduced. The unfolding rela onship between Sunny, played by Sanjeev Bhashar, and new DCI Jessie, Sinead Keenan, and some challenging and disturbing new storylines promise to maintain the high standard.
to the eyes of the world once again. With plenty of familiar interna onal faces and exci ng new talent, the IPL is the place where we get to see cricket’s future unfold.
Cinema highlights
Twiggy, 7th March
Sadie Frost’s lovingly created cinema c documentary about the life of this Bri sh icon is a real trip down memory lane and reminds the audience that former model Twiggy, real name Lesley Lawson, is more than just a face — actually, acclaimed as the face of 1966 — a woman who rose from humble working‐class origins to become a global style icon and an accomplished actress and performer.
Marching Powder, 7th March
The Studio, Season One, Apple TV
Set to rapidly become a comedy classic ,Seth Rogan creates and heads up The Studio as Ma Remick, the newly appointed head of Con nental Studios, a man desperate for celebrity approval. Remick and his team have to get crea ve to maintain the relevance of movies. Home Alone’s brilliant Catherine O’Hara also stars.
IPL 2025 Sky Sports & Now TV
Armchair sports fans are eagerly awai ng Friday 14th March and the return of the razzmatazz of the Indian Premier League. Although the legendary bowler James Anderson did not get selected in this year’s auc on, the 2025 IPL tournament is bound to bring the subcon nent’s infec ous passion for the game
A hard‐hi ng, laugh‐out‐loud Bri sh movie. When middle‐aged football hooligan Jack Jones, played by the excellent Danny Dyer, is arrested for possession of drugs, he has six weeks to turn a life me of violence, bad judgement and terrible behaviour around and repair his marriage. Very violent but, at mes, also poignant and hilarious.
Disney’s Snow White, 21st March
Inextricably part of Disney’s cinema c history, Marc Webb’s musical fantasy is a live‐ac on reimagining of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale and is released almost 90 years a er the animated Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The film is bound to appeal to a new genera on of moviegoers and promises to put a new spin on the classic.
An ques and Collectors Fairs, Rus ngton
Arun Fairs is delighted to highlight some of the new stallholders currently selling at its two An ques & Collectors events held at the Woodlands Centre, Rus ngton on the first Sunday of every month and at Emsworth Community Centre on the second Sunday of every month.
The stalls booked for 2025 are more varied than ever and include auto‐memorabilia, prints/pen and ink/ pictures, French, African and Oriental, vintage, costumes and haberdashery, vinyl records, coins, badges, toys, postcards, books, militaria, jewellery, 20th century glass and po ery, small furniture, stamps, silver, Ephemera, pain ngs, engravings and curios!
In fact, over 30 stallholders of varied and interes ng an ques and collectables will be trading at the Rus ngton event with over 40 sellers at Emsworth.
Events such as these would not be possible without some superb catering, so we are pleased to say that we offer great hot and cold refreshments and homemade lunches to keep you going throughout the day along with free on‐site and local car parking available.
Both fairs will be open from 10am to 3.30pm with just £1 entrance (early trade 9am).The Rus ngton An ques and Collectors Fair is at The Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rus ngton, BN16 3HB on the first Sunday of every month.
For more informa on, please contact 07563 589725 or email silkroad@b nternet.com
Littlehampton Tennis
Social, Active and Passionate about Tennis!
Have you ever wanted to try tennis or brush up your skills in a friendly environment? Why not visit Littlehampton Community Tennis or Howard Lawn Tennis Club – both run by the highly experienced tennis coach Stewart Lister – and enjoy a free taster session of coaching and social play.
Littlehampton Community Tennis is based at Maltravers Park and offers two group adult coaching sessions, one and half hours a week for £12 a month, or £5 a session. These are every Wednesday at 10‐11.30am and on Sundays at 10.30am‐12pm.
There are also three junior sessions, which are based on ability, held on Saturday and Sunday mornings, also for £12 a month or £5 a session. Racquets are supplied for the sessions.
The coaching is based on teaching methods used at the leading Spanish academies, and incorporates stroke progression and drills specifically aimed at improving movement.
“I work with a diverse range of people, from age four to retirees, covering the basics, to fast‐paced matches to leisurely, social afternoons,”
says Coach Stewart Lister. “There is one common denominator: everyone leaves smiling. Tennis is one of the most accessible sports, with a range of health benefits for mind and body.”
Whether you would like to play socially or would welcome more competitive play, Howard Lawn Tennis Club offers this at Littlehampton Sportsfield, St Floras Road. The club is 108 years old this year. Howard Lawn offers social play, men’s night, ladies’ night, friendly matches and currently has teams entered into the Sussex leagues for men’s, ladies, seniors and Team Tennis. They also hold regular social events like courtside barbecues and outings.
To arrange your free taster, get in touch with Helen or Stewart on 07868 111512 / 07716 278328. www.littlehamptontennis.com
Third me lucky for RNLI’s December dippers!
Now in its third year, Li lehampton RNLI fundraisers organised a December Dip from Li lehampton East Beach as a fun and invigora ng winter event raising funds for the RNLI.
This me, though, it was held in January, having been postponed twice due to stormy weather condi ons during December.
Despite the grey chill of a Sunday in January, the atmosphere of an cipa on warmed the par cipants as they waited for the countdown to enter the water. Both par cipants and onlookers joined the countdown, and as a horn sounded, the dippers headed into the water either for a paddle or a full immersion.
A maximum time limit in the water was set, with warm drinks and garments ready for people as they le the water. Safety was overseen by the volunteer crews of both Li lehampton lifeboats with support from Arun Yacht Club and lifeguards from Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club.
On land, Li lehampton RNLI’s shore crew and fundraising volunteers managed the event and St John Ambulance was also on hand.
Mathews, Littlehampton RNLI’s Fundraising Chair, said: “This is our third year holding the December Dip and I’m in awe of the con nuing generosity, bravery and kindness of the people of Li lehampton; they turned a cold grey morning in to a wonderfully warm, colourful and welcoming event. We raised over £3,000, which will directly support the RNLI, that is wholly funded by dona ons, enabling us to con nue saving lives at sea.”
