All about East Preston and Kingston is independently published. 3,500 copies are distributed free to homes in the villages.
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.
All about East Preston and Kingston cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services that appear in the magazine.
Welcome to the February issue
February is a day longer in 2024, and the 29th is traditionally the day that women can propose. My Mum proposed to my Dad on 29th February 1964 after having met a few weeks before. We celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary later this year!
Chinese New Year Celebrations take place on the 10th of February, welcoming the Year of the Dragon. People born under this sign are said to be intelligent, charismatic, and very lucky. In China, the birth rate rises dramatically during a Dragon year as everyone wants their child to have those positive traits.
Shrove Tuesday occurs on the 13th of February this year when we traditionally eat sweet or savoury pancakes. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy this custom, it dates back to the 15th century when people would race and have competitions tossing pancakes.
Whatever you do in February, make the most of this short month.
Helen and the All about Magazines team
Let’s Dance
Let’s Dance will begin the new term on Friday 5th January 2024. If you liked dancing when you were younger, or you would enjoy a session that is more than just ‘Keep Fit’, then this is to let you know that there is an exci ng opportunity to enjoy dance and fitness with friendly people at ‘Let’s Dance.’
Dance offers a sense of wellbeing as well as gentle exercise. Stamina and balance can be improved through movement as well as physical and mental agility.
A typical session includes gentle stretching, warm up to music then four or five dances which are set to a wide genre of music, to suit all tastes. The cool down at the end of the session offers a chance to relax the mind as well as cool down our bodies.
The dances are wide‐ranging from a Greek dance, a Charleston, a medita ve Japanese Garden and some are guided movements to a set piece of music. Hilarity is o en a feature of the session, when we celebrate learning a dance, or that we have all gone wrong at the same me!
Currently, we are mee ng at Wave and are looking forward to returning to The Windmill Entertainment Centre when possible, our usual venue.
The session runs on a Friday at 9.30 for one hour. Coffee and a friendly chat a erwards are op onal. Do come and join us and have a free trial session.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Contact Jill on 07827 921430 for more details.
Unleash the Adventure: Out of Bounds
Where Every Age Finds its Thrill!
Winter may be nipping at our heels, but Out of Bounds is the hot cket to escape the ordinary and turn your day into a fantas c adventure with friends, family, work colleagues, schools and groups!
Nestled near Angmering, Out of Bounds is not just a des na on; it's an experience wai ng to unfold right on your doorstep along the A259.
As one of Sussex's premier adventure and ac vity des na ons, Out of Bounds wears its badge proudly, renowned for transforming mundane days into thrilling escapades suitable for all ages and abili es.
Ac vi es include ‐ Clip ‘n Climb, Interac ve Ten Pin Bowling, Safari Themed Adventure Golf with 18 holes, Mul ‐level So Play, Adventure Nets, Jumping Pillows, and the excitement of Laser Tag. And that's just the beginning!
Need a refuel? The café/restaurant is a haven serving up a deligh ul array of light bites, home‐made burgers, stone‐baked pizzas, toas es, barista coffee, cold drinks, fruit smoothies, homemade tray bakes, ice cream, and so much more.
Age is just a number at Out of Bounds. From the niest tots enjoying our award‐winning so play to our esteemed seniors relishing special weekday rates on our brand‐new interac ve ten pin bowling lanes there really is something for everyone.
Ac vi es are individually priced, with an array of offers like Childminder Discounts, Dine ‘n’ Bowl, Mul ‐Buy Packages, Mega Value Day Tickets, Senior Rates, Services Discounts, Seasonal Offers, Home Educa on Sessions, and reduced Group Rates to ensure everyone can join the adventure.
Out of Bounds isn't just a des na on; it's an award‐winning Party Venue perfect for Birthday Par es, School & Group bookings, and Corporate Events for groups from 15 to 350!
Private func on rooms equipped with an overhead projector, Apple TV, and Wi‐Fi elevate your mee ngs, training sessions, workshops, and team‐building ac vi es. Exclusive venue hire is also available.
Ready for an immersive, enjoyable ac vity experience perfect for everyone? Pack your enthusiasm and visit Out of Bounds! To secure your spot in the excitement, call 01903 788 588, email info@out‐of‐bounds.co.uk, or book online at www.out‐of‐bounds.co.uk.
The Adventure Awaits – Escape the Ordinary, Go Out of Bounds!
The Bug Man visits EPJS
Each September, we welcome a new cohort of children to the junior school – the vast majority of whom transfer from our neighbours at East Preston Infants. The move to juniors is always a significant step, as new challenges and opportuni es arise. This year has been no different, and already this year the new Year 3 cohort have had plenty to get involved with.
Right at the start of the academic year, we began with our art workshops across the school, with the new Year 3 children taking part in the first weeks of term. They explored art techniques and skills with a visi ng ar st, before ge ng out to explore the grounds and complete prac cal tasks, including pain ng with s cks and twigs to explore different textures.
Throughout the first term, the children also got to grips with a whole host of new topics, from the building of stone age se lements to the geography of East Preston, and computer coding. So many of the subjects that children start learning in the junior years are the star ng point for future study right up to GCSE and beyond, whether that’s loca ng your village on different maps, or crea ng your own computer program.
Alongside the academic study is the importance of wider opportuni es, and the na vity performance was the perfect chance for children to take on the challenge of speaking to a wider audience. The parish church of St Mary the Virgin was packed to the ra ers as families and friends came to see the children confidently speaking their lines and singing songs to tell the oldest story. For some, this was their first me talking to such a large audience, but no doubt not their last.
Then, as the new year began, the children began their study of South American rainforests, with a visit from Andrew Smith –the bug man! He introduced the children to all number of exo c creatures, including cockroaches and a tarantula.
Isaac explained, “We saw this bug which, when it was younger was green so it was camouflaged against the leaves, but then when
it gets older it turns brown so it can be camouflaged against the branches of the tree.”
Annabella explained her highlight: “The best bit was feeling the snake. It wasn’t that long – but he put it in our hands so we could hold it and feel its skin.”
Who knows – maybe we have a budding entomologist or rainforest explorer in the making?
The Angmering School Spellathon
A er several rounds of spelling words of increasing difficulty, the compe on came down to the final two contestants: Alfie Towner, the Y7 representa ve, and Michael Marshall, the Y11 representa ve. The final word was "playwright," and both students fought admirably to spell it correctly. In the end, it was Michael Marshall who emerged as the winner of the compe on, spelling "playwright" correctly to claim the tle of Angmering School spelling champion for 2023.
Angmering School held its annual Spellathon compe on in January, with students from across the school compe ng to become the school's spelling champion for 2023. The compe on was intense, with some outstanding performances from students of all ages. teachers involved, and it was evident that everyone had put in a lot of effort to prepare for the event.
Alfie Towner put up a great fight and can be proud of his performance in the compe on.
The event was a great success, with students, teachers, and parents all coming together to celebrate the achievements of the contestants. The compe on was a testament to the hard work and dedica on of the students and
Overall, it was a fantas c event that showcased the talent and dedica on of the students at Angmering School. Well done to everyone involved, and we look forward to next year's Spellathon compe on!
Ms Moe and Michael Marshall
What is Invisalign?
Unlock Your Best Smile with Invisalign:
Join us for the Open Day on February 16th, 2024!
Are you dreaming of a beau fully aligned smile without the hassle of tradi onal braces? Look no further than Invisalign, the revolu onary clear aligner system that is transforming the way people achieve straighter teeth.
Invisalign is a modern and discreet alterna ve to tradi onal braces for straightening teeth. This innova ve system uses a series of custom‐made, clear plas c aligners to gently shi your teeth into their desired posi ons. Each aligner is replaced every week, gradually moving your teeth un l they reach the final, desired alignment.
Star ng the Invisalign process
The journey to a straighter smile with Invisalign begins with a consulta on with Dr Yanni where you will have the opportunity to discuss your orthodon c goals and learn more about how Invisalign can benefit you. If Invisalign is deemed suitable for your needs, a digital scan of your teeth will be taken to create a customised treatment plan.
Using advanced 3D imaging technology, Dr Yanni will map out the precise movements of your teeth throughout the en re treatment process, allowing you to preview the expected results before you even begin.
Once your custom aligners are fabricated, you will receive a series of sets to take home. You will be instructed to wear the aligners for 20‐22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Approximately every 6‐8 weeks, you will visit your den st for progress checks and to receive the next sets of aligners.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign offers lots of benefits that make it an appealing choice for individuals seeking orthodon c treatment:
1. Discreet: The clear plas c aligners are virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth with confidence and without drawing a en on to your orthodon c treatment.
2. Comfortable: Invisalign aligners are custom‐made for a comfortable fit, without the discomfort of metal brackets and wires.
3. Removable: Unlike tradi onal braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed for ea ng, brushing, and flossing, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy your favourite foods without restric ons.
4. Predictable: With the help of advanced 3D imaging, you can see the projected outcome of your treatment before you even begin, providing peace of mind and excitement about the results to come.
5. Convenient: Invisalign treatment typically requires fewer office visits compared to tradi onal braces, allowing you to spend less me in the dental chair and more me enjoying your life.
We will be offering a complimentary free consulta on with Dr Yanni, an esteemed Elite Invisalign provider with extensive experience in helping pa ents achieve stunning, confident smiles through Invisalign treatment. Her exper se and dedica on to excellence make her an invaluable resource for those considering Invisalign as their preferred orthodon c solu on.
Addi onally, a endees will have the opportunity to receive a free digital scan of their teeth, allowing them to see a personalised 3D simula on of their poten al Invisalign treatment outcomes.
Join us on February 16th 2024, at Abbots Lodge Dental prac ce, to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to explore the transforma ve benefits of Invisalign and take the step toward a more confident, radiant smile.
For more informa on and to reserve your spot please contact us on 01903 783154.
Pilates
Pilates is not some new‐fangled fitness fad, in fact it has been around for almost one hundred years. Joseph Pilates was born in Dusseldorf, Germany in 1883. Around 1912, he moved to England and found work as a circus performer, boxer, and self‐defence instructor.
During the First World War, he was interred alongside other German na onals living in the UK. He used this me to develop his physical fitness and trained fellow internees. Towards the end of the war, he was given a role in a hospital, working with pa ents who couldn’t walk. Joe Pilates adapted their beds and added springs and pulleys to allow exercise and build muscle strength. In 1926 Joe and his wife Clara emigrated to the United States and opened a fitness studio in New York city.
Joseph Pilates based his exercises on six founding principles, breath, concentra on, centring, control, precision, and flow. These principles are s ll applied almost one hundred years later and the style of equipment that Joseph invented is s ll used today. He is quoted as saying, “In 10 sessions you feel be er,
20 sessions you look be er, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”
Modern Pilates studios will offer either mat Pilates or reformer apparatus Pilates.
Performing a structured set of moves on a mat relies on your body weight to provide resistance against gravity and requires full control of your body. A reformer is a piece of equipment, much like Joe Pilates original inven on. It consists of a narrow bed with a sliding carriage and pulleys with varying resistance. The reformer is designed to support your body when you perform Pilates, it can be used to target specific areas or full body strengthening.
Pilates studios may also offer classical or contemporary classes. Joe Pilates passed away in 1967, but his original set of exercises were passed down to ‘elders’ and are s ll used today. These are considered the classical moves and they generally require a posterior lt, when your pelvis is lted forward. Contemporary Pilates is a loose defini on for everything that came a er this classical approach. It has allowed instructors to add their own moves and stretches whilst adhering to the founding principles.
Pilates is a whole‐body condi oning workout. It strengthens muscles and elongates your frame, giving you flexibility, improving your mobility and refining muscle tone. It gained popularity in the 1990s, with Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna as loyal advocates for the regime. Pilates had a recent resurgence in popularity and new Pilates bou ques are opening across the UK, making it an industry worth approximately £800m and employing around 16,000 instructors. No doubt the increased accessibility to classes has helped the regimen gain a new audience of younger devotees, but it also encourages people of all ages to try a class for themselves. Why not find a local Pilates class and discover the benefits of Pilates for yourself.
Tax
Richard Cohen, FPFS ACII MCSI Chartered Financial Planner
There are very few things that you can guarantee in life, however Taxes seem to be one of them.
Focusing on financial improvements isn’t always about looking for the perfect investment or obsessing over long‐term savings rates. One of the simplest elements to making the most of your hard‐earned cash is to look at how tax efficient you can be. It will come as no surprise that a large lump of your income disappears before it hits your bank account each month. Tax deduc ons come in various forms, from direct methods like Income Tax, Na onal Insurance or Corpora on taxes for business to changes in personal circumstances like Inheritance Tax. So can ge ng your house in order actually make a difference when it comes to how much tax you pay?
Between Autumn Statements, Budgets & Fiscal Events, there seems to be changes to our tax system every few months. The Chancellor has a limited arsenal at the best of mes, but when you throw in the need to weigh up poli cal considera ons (especially in the run to an elec on) verses the actual income the Treasury needs to fund the country, it becomes increasingly difficult to balance where it all comes from.
On a personal level, there are a number of financial methods and products that can mi gate paying more tax than you need to. Please let me state quite firmly, this isn’t about looking at ways to avoid paying taxes you owe, it’s about collec vely arranging your finances to maximise their efficiency. It’s worth exploring what op ons are available to you, how easily you can make the changes and how big the benefits are.
Obviously, if you would like professional advice on this ma er or if you wish to discuss your financial situa on, feel free to get in touch.
Open Gardens and Art Trail 2024
East Preston Fes val
The Open Gardens and Art Trail is a long established and popular event during East Preston’s Annual Fes val and new gardens are always welcome to take part. They don’t have to be perfect: any size or style; natural or planned; wild or cul vated, this is not a compe on, just a love of gardens. Local ar sts and po ers are also invited to open their studios and display their work. Many people who par cipate also use the opportunity to raise funds for their favourite charity and last year almost £4000 was raised for local good causes in this way.
The Trail will take place from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday 1st June and Monday 3rd June 2024. If you would like to be part of this event please email eastprestonfes val@hotmail.co.uk by 29th February to register and you will be contacted for more details.
East Preston Ar san Market & Mini Makers Fun me
(East Preston
Village Hall, Sea Road BN16 1LP) on Saturday 16th March 2024 from 10:00 to 15:00
There will be fun for all the family at the Ar san Market and Mini Makers Fun me. Come along to shop for unique art, hand‐made ar san items, local products and a tasty treat or two, plus there will be crea ve ac vi es for children in Mini Makers Fun me. Tea, coffee and cakes will be available. We look forward to seeing you there. If you are interested in helping to run a crea ve session, please contact eastprestonfes val@hotmail.co.uk
01903
Cremation Only £1340
Chapel Service
Chislett Chapel £2095
Cremation Service
Worthing Crematorium £2998
Burial Service
Adur District Burials £6962 Arun District Burials £4808
All package prices are inclusive of all third-party costs and TLC’s professional service fee. There are no extra costs to bring your loved one into our care within a 20-mile radius. There is a choice of two coffins included in the package price. A ceremonial vehicle is included in the package price. tara@tlcfuneralservices.co.uk
3 Boxgrove Parade, Goring By Sea, Worthing, BN12 6BR www.tlcfuneralservices.co.uk
Going Green
by Rus ngton Players
Following the success of ‘Blood Brothers’ (Play Version), Rus ngton Players’ March produc on is ‘Going Green’ a tragic comedy by David Tristram, which runs from Wednesday 13th –Saturday 16th March at 7.45pm at the Woodlands Centre, Rus ngton.
Director Jane Vre os says: “We have put on a couple of David Tristram comedies over the last 2 years which went down really well with our audiences, so we’re confident they will enjoy this one too. The play centres around John Brown, a ‘promising’ poli cian who develops a very rare terminal disease just as his career is taking off. He encounters a ‘medical professional’ (…who turns out to be a vet), who claims she has a cure BUT the side effect is that it will turn him green…. What prejudices would follow for a ‘green’ poli cian?”
Two hour parking Scheme – pay by phone
Arun District Council are pleased to announce that you can now use MiPermit to ‘pay by phone’ in all Arun District Council owned car parks.
Customers will be able to pay for parking via the MiPermit app using locator codes which can be found on pay and display machines located in each car park.
Those using the new virtual two‐hour parking discs in par cipa ng Li lehampton and Bognor Regis car parks will be able to ac vate their free two‐hour parking period via the MiPermit app and can extend their stay using the same app.
MiPermit will operate alongside the RingGo app which is currently in opera on. Customers will be no fied if there are any changes to the opera on of RingGo in our car parks. The MiPermit app can be downloaded either from the App Store for Apple users or from the Google Play Store.
Tickets can be purchased through cketsource.co.uk/rus ngtonplayers or by calling 07546 306 438. They will also be available on the door.
For further informa on contact Vinny Shepherd on 07863698552 or email: vinnyshepherd@hotmail.co.uk
The Play Cafe
The coff
ee shop with a child friendly atmosphere
We all know how difficult it can be to find somewhere to enjoy a coffee and something to eat whilst also keeping your children entertained. But, at The Play Café, we’ve got it covered!
We have a large secure fenced‐off play ar‐ea with plenty of toys, dressing‐up and role play ac vi es, so the children can play whilst you enjoy some delicious food and drinks. Our play area is free to enter and there’s no need to book.
We also offer child friendly films and tv shows all day, every day, and we have a games con‐sole with retro games for older children. As well as plenty of books, colouring, and regular cra ac vi es.
If you’re looking for somewhere to hold your child’s party, then look no further! We have a range of different party packages to suit all budgets. We can also hire out our space for
events, such as clubs, classes, and fairs. We are happy to tailor our packages to suit your needs so please get in touch.
Despite being super child‐friendly, we also wel‐come those without children. So, if you want to grab a quality coffee on your way to work then please do pop in.
We look forward to welcoming you at The Play Café – the coffee shop with the child friendly atmosphere! We are at Wick Parade, Wick High Street, Li lehampton BN17 7JQ. Use the QR code to find our website or Insta.
What’s On in and around East Preston and Kingston
Please add your events to our website https://allaboutmagazines.co.uk/add/event if you would like your event to appear in the ‘What’s On’ pages.
Friday 2nd February ‐ 11:00 to 11:30
Toddler Time (East Preston Library)
These free, relaxed sessions are a fun way for under‐fives to develop a love of language from an early age. Sessions include nursery rhymes, songs, musical instruments and puppets.
Saturday 3rd February ‐ 10:00 to 14:00
PreLoved Clothes Sale (Angmering Village Hall, Station Road)
Browse the rails for a bargain at this fundraiser for the British Heart Foundation and other local charities, supported by Angmering South Downs Rotary Club.
Saturday 3rd February ‐ 18:30
Spring Into Soul Choir’s Winter Concert (St Botolph's Church Worthing, Lansdowne Rd)
Accompanied by a full live band with a brass section, Worthing’s community Gospel choir, Spring Into Soul, will sing a new set of uplifting, soulful Gospel songs. Supported by the Thomas A Becket Infants choir. Tickets £15 on the door.
Sunday 4th February ‐ 10:00 to 15:30
Antiques and Collectors Fair (The Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rustington)
This well‐established, popular event takes place on the first Sunday of every month. Stalls sell various items, including coins, stamps, postcards, 20th‐century glass, Scandinavian designs, furniture, costumery, studio pottery, books and more. Hot and cold refreshments and on‐site parking are available. Only £1 entry.
Wednesday 7th February ‐ 14:30 to 16:00
Knit and Natter (East Preston Library)
Simply turn up, bring your knitting, crochet or stitching and enjoy a good natter.
Wednesday 7th February ‐ 18:30 to 21:30
Scalextric Nascar Oval Race Night (English Martyrs Church Hall, Goring Way, Goring)
Scalextric racers of all ages are welcome to join in with the racing fun at Worthing HO Racing's monthly meeting. Race fees are £3 for adults
and £2 for under‐16s. All equipment provided. Find out more at www.whoracing.org.uk
Wednesday 7th February ‐ 19:00 to 21:00
Brushes Art Club: Love to Be Here ‐ Part 1 (Broadwater Parish Rooms, Broadwater Street West, Worthing)
The brief for this two‐part event is “Love to Be Here” ‐ a free interpretation evening. Come along and paint or draw. Bring your own materials. To find out more, email Alan Moore at amoore16@sky.com. Part 2 takes place on Wednesday 14th February.
Join Care for Veterans for an enthralling afternoon of mystery and indulgence. Speaker Paul Britton, a criminal defence solicitor who has appeared on Sky News, Talk TV, Good Morning Britain and Times Radio, will share anecdotes and professional experiences. His tales from the legal world are not to be missed! All proceeds from the event will aid the care and rehabilitation of disabled veterans. Book your tickets at www.ticketpass.org
Thursday 8th February ‐ 14:30
Mods and Rockers ‐ a talk by Chris Horlock (John de Bohun Room, The Woodlands Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Rustington)
Rustington Heritage Association has invited author and historian Chris Horlock to talk about the huge changes to everyday life during the post‐war period and the various youth cults that emerged. All welcome. Entry for visitors is £3, payable at the door. Entry for paid‐up RHA members is free.
Thursday 8th February ‐ 19:00 to 21:15
French film evening (West Worthing Baptist Church, South Street, BN14 7LU)
Worthing Twinning Association is showing the 1969 French Film “L'Armée des Ombres”. £5 on
the door, which includes a glass of wine or juice and a doughnut. Non‐WTA members welcome.
Experience the epic sounds of music based on Scandinavian legends, folk melodies and peasant dances, and music evoking battles, storms, shipwrecks, mountains, rivers and sunrises. Preston Yeo (WPO Leader) performs the ever‐popular Sibelius Violin Concerto. Tickets from £3 available on www.wtm.uk
Monday 12th February ‐ 19:00
The Great Escaper (Conservative Hall, Sea Road, EP)
The East Preston Film Society is showing this touching story starring Michael Caine and the late Glenda Jackson. Popcorn, snacks, wine and soft drinks will be on sale. Tickets £7 from Dizzy and Seaview Stores.
Tuesday 13th February ‐ 19:15 to 20:45 Clermont Ferrand (Angmering Community Centre, Foxwood Avenue, Bramley Green)
The Rustington Anglo‐French Circle’s talk is about Clermont Ferrand, one of France's oldest cities. This welcoming group of Francophiles meet every second Tuesday of the month. All levels of French speakers are welcome. £5 a visitor. Soyez les bienvenus! For more info, contact anglofrenchrustington@gmail.com
Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th February ‐Various times starting at 10:30 Snowdrop Tours (Highdown Gardens, High‐down Rise, Worthing)
Highdown’s curator, Alex New, and snowdrop enthusiast Simon Hollingworth are sharing their passion through bespoke hourly tours, consisting of identification techniques and fascinating facts, as well as their expert tips on caring for these winter wonders. Tickets £8. To book, visit www.highdowngardens.co.uk
Wednesday 14th February ‐ 19:00 to 21:00 Brushes Art Club: Love to Be Here ‐ Part 2 (Broadwater Parish Rooms, Broadwater Street West, Worthing)
See entry of 7th February for details.
Saturday 17th February ‐ 10:00 to 17:00
Make a Pewter Tealight Holder (Mettle Studios, Roundstone Bypass, Angmering)
This one‐day pewter workshop is designed to introduce beginners and experienced metal workers to pewter. All students will gain basic skills in pewter techniques, such as cutting the metal, soldering, casting, mould making and polishing. No experience necessary. At the end of the day you will be taking home a finished pewter tealight holder that you have made. To book a place, email design@fleurgrenier.co.uk
Tuesday 20th February ‐ 09:45 to 12:00
The Art of the Cartoonist (The Woodlands Centre, Rustington)
The Art Society Arun’s talk by Harry Venning ‐ a weekly contributor to The Guardian, The Mail On Sunday, Sunday Telegraph, Independent, and Sunday Times, among others ‐ will trace his profession’s history and be drawing live while sharing some tricks of the trade. Everyone welcome. Guests pay £7 at the door. So turn up, grab a coffee and enjoy the lecture.
Wednesday 21st February ‐ 19:00 to 21:00
Talk: A‐Z of Sussex (Rustington Museum, Broadmark Lane Car Park, Rustington)
Sue and Clive Fennell of Arun Talks reveal there is much to discover within the county as they take you on a journey through hidden gems and forgotten pasts. To book tickets, call 01903 788478 or email museum@rustingtonpc.org
Saturday 24th February ‐ 14:00
Beetle Drive (The Scout Hall, The Street, East Preston)
Play the game Beetle, but with a difference! Lots of laughs to be had at this fundraiser. £6 a ticket, which includes tea or coffee, snacks and cakes. There will also be a raffle and other “lucky” prizes. For tickets, call 07846 212316 or 01903 241270.
Friday 1st March ‐ 14:00
World Day of Prayer (St Mary the Virgin, Vicarage Lane, East Preston)
The service will be followed by refreshments in the spire room. All are warmly welcome ‐ so make this a date in the dairy!
Are you feeling the Winter Blues?
by Personal Trainer, Peter Buckland
With January in the rearview mirror, I hope your New Year’s resolu ons aren’t too. The hype of a brand new year and brand new beginnings o en bring a fresh start for some.
We promise that we’ll maybe eat a li le bit healthier or exercise a li le bit more, but have we stuck with it? O en our January mo va on is dropping off around now and with that some mes our mental health does too. We can feel a li le bit deflated and some mes down this me of year. But don’t worry, there can be things that you can do to counteract this.
First of all, just get moving. Get that blood pumping, those lungs working and believe me, you’ll thank me for it. Ge ng your heart rate up through a simple walk or trip to a gym can really boost your mood and energy. Through a release in endorphins and the feeling of achievement, you’ll feel a whole new energy throughout your day.
The next thing to focus on would be your diet. Cleaning it up a li le by reducing some sugary snacks and highly processed foods. These foods can feel great at the me, with a nice boost of sugary energy but oh boy, do they hit you hard with an energy drop a er! It’s bad for your health and it’s bad for your mood too. The last thing I want to men on, is to go socialise. Get out there, meet with some friends, have a good chat and always talk if you’re struggling mentally. Your mental health is as important as your physical health, so please don’t neglect it.
So go grab someone, go for a walk and smile. You can contact me at pete@physpt.co.uk or by calling 07341 825616.
I grew up in France in a family that would qualify as the perfect example of the ‘French paradox’: we ate bague es, bu er, saucisson, some heavy sauces and typical tradi onal meals with a li le wine (for the adults), and yet we were of average weight and generally healthy.
What is the French paradox? Research in the 1980s tried to discover how despite their diets of heavy saturated fats and wine drinking, the French had far lower rates of heart disease than most western countries.
At home, I saw first‐hand why this might be the case: my ‘typical French’ family ate a healthy, balanced diet of plenty of fresh produce, occasional red meat and no depriva on – just common sense.
Balance was what it was about. And self‐awareness.
I remember my mother telling us to eat light (manger léger) a day before and a er an indulgent celebra on meal.
We didn’t just eat/drink ‘because it was there’, but because we wanted to really savour the good food and occasions. And food was never the enemy.
Another crucial take‐away: good fats (quality bu er and saturated cooking fats) are actually good for you and don’t create more heart disease (as shown in many studies in recent years) or obesity/diabetes etc. Heated vegetable oils, sugars, and processed unnatural foods do.
Health has never been about diets, restric ons and processed ‘fake’ foods.
Time to re‐think what’s truly ‘good’ for us and go back to balance, self‐awareness, good fats and real foods.
Las ng Powers of A orney
Have you considered what would happen to you if you were unable to manage your property, finances or health?
By preparing a Las ng Power of A orney you can protect yourself and those you love from financial difficulty or decisions surrounding care.
Las ng Powers of A orney were introduced in 2007 to replace Enduring Powers of A orney, whilst including several steps to protect the person making the Power. If you have an Enduring Power of A orney this remains valid but can only be registered at Court to be used by the A orneys if the person making the Power is not able to make their own decisions. This can cause difficul es for the A orneys as the current meframe for registra on at Court is approximately 6 months. If you lose capacity and have a Las ng Power of A orney this can be registered at Court immediately and can be used by A orneys without delay. Whilst we hope you never need to rely on a Power of A orney, having one in place removes any worries for the future if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself.
A Las ng Power of A orney will allow you to name friends, family or a Solicitor to help you by making those decisions on your behalf. This process can be undertaken by both legal and non‐legal applicants online or directly through the Court. If you have begun this process but become overwhelmed, unable to complete it, require an understanding of what is involved, or details about the 2 types of Las ng Powers (Property/ Financial and Health/Welfare), we can assist. Our Private Client Team can help prepare and register Powers at the Office of the Public Guardian.
Please contact: Sophie Careless‐Shore or Barbara Sykes
Tel: 01903 784447
Email scarelessshore@moyle.co.uk or bsykes@moyle.co.uk, or complete an online enquiry on our website ‐ www.moyle.co.uk
Get organised in 2024: plan for your long‐term care!
As we ease into a new year, it seems a fi ng me to get organised, tackle the tasks that you’ve been pu ng off, and plan for the future. One area that may not be people’s main priority un l it becomes a necessity, is planning for long‐term care and how it’ll be funded. However, considering this early allows for more though ul decisions, without the pressure of immediate ac on.
As you step into 2024, it’s beneficial to spend me considering:
the type of care that you would prefer;
how to best manage and cover care fees;
how you can provide for your family members; and
arranging Power of A orney for someone to act on your behalf if necessary.
You can also discuss and share your wishes with your family. This will help to reduce pressure on them, should they need to take future decisions on your behalf.
Get specialist independent financial advice from Carewise
Carewise, with its team of independent financial advisers specialising in later life finances, offers impar al support and informa on to guide you in your decisions. As well as care funding, they are also qualified to advise on inheritance tax, pensions, and las ng power of a orney. Taking the first step towards understanding your op ons costs nothing as the ini al consulta on with Carewise is free.
For more details, visit carewiseadvice.com, email carewise@westsussex.gov.uk , or call 0330 222 7000. Embrace this year by planning wisely for what lies ahead.
Expert advice on paying for care
Long-term care in your own home or in a residential care home is expensive, but with expert advice from independent financial specialists, Carewise can help you to make informed decisions on choosing and paying for the right care.
The Carewise care fees specialists are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and members of the Society of Later Life Advisers, so you can have peace of mind when discussing your finances.
Can I move my Will to another
firm if I wish?
Stephen Sampson, Head of Private Client at Monan Gozze LLP and an expert in Wills and Inheritance Tax, considers why you may wish to move your Will to another firm, and how to go about it.
There are a few common misconcep ons when it comes to Wills. For example, that when you die your Executors must use the firm that prepared your Will to administer your estate.
Another common misconcep on is that you need to store your original Will with the firm that prepared it.
It is always a good idea for a solicitors’ firm to store your original Will. There is a rule of law known as the “presump on of revoca on”. If your original Will cannot be found when you die, and it was last known to be in your possession, you are presumed to have revoked the Will. The Intestacy Rules will then apply instead of your wishes. The Intestacy Rules create a par cular problem if your Will named an unmarried partner or friends or chari es as beneficiaries, or if there are blood rela ves who you did not want to inherit. Storing your Will with a solicitor means that the presump on of revoca on can never apply. However, your Will does not need to be held by the solicitor who drew it up.
So why might you wish to move your Will to another firm of solicitors? The most common reasons are that you have moved, the individual solicitor who prepared the Will has le or re red, the firm has closed the office that you dealt with, or the firm itself has changed (for example becoming a lot more corporate and less caring following a merger).
Moving your Will to another firm could not be simpler. If you wish to transfer your Will to Monan Gozze LLP, we simply need to know the name of the firm that holds your original Will, your full name, your telephone number, and your home address. If you had a different address when you signed your Will then we need to know that address as well. We provide you with a le er of authority to sign, which we then submit to your old solicitor so that your Will and any other documents (for example, your Deeds or your Powers of A orney) can be sent to us. You do not need to contact your old solicitor directly or give any reason why you are moving your Will.
At Monan Gozze LLP we do not charge for transferring Wills from another firm, and most firms do not charge for releasing your Will to us. When we have received your Will, we will arrange a free review appointment with you, to check that it s ll meets your needs and to take down informa on that will be helpful to your Executors when you pass away, such as details of your assets, pensions and other sources of income, and any debts. The review appointment can be in our Arundel office, but free home visits are available in the areas where this magazine is distributed.
If you would like to transfer your Will from another firm, you can contact me, Stephen Sampson on Phone: 01903 927055, Email: ssampson@monangozze .com, Write or call into our Arundel office: Monan Gozze LLP, 1 Tarrant Street, Arundel, BN18 9DG.
“I really couldn’t exist without the help of Guild Care. This is truly a lifeline service for me which I couldn’t do without.”
Home Care client
Person-centred care and support in your own home
Guild Care are Worthing’s leading and most established social care charity. Our vison is for all people in need of care to live fulfilling, safe and secure lives. Our home care service enables older people and vulnerable adults to lead better quality lives whilst remaining safe and comfortable in their own homes. We offer support with:
Personal care Companionship Respite
Household duties Well-being checks Medication
Meal preparation We cover: Worthing, Ferring, Goring, Rustington, East Preston, Lancing, Shoreham, Angmering and surrounding areas. Join our team, we are looking for dedicated carers.
homecare@guildcare.org Get in touch with our friendly team for more
01903 528637 or 07866 781827 www.guildcare.org/homecare
Guild Care is a registered charity, number 1044658.
Beetroot Burgers
Perfect for those trying to reduce their meat consumption. This burger is full of flavour and such a pretty colour we think it's perfect Valentine's Day fayre!
Preparation time ‐ 30 minutes
Cooking time ‐ 40 minutes
Makes 8 burgers
Ingredients
1 onion, quartered
3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
2 garlic cloves, crushed
200g mushrooms (chestnut are good)
250g tofu
100g cooked beetroot (about 2‐3 beetroot bulbs)
1 x 400g can black beans, drained
1 tbsp tomato purée
2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
1 tbsp miso paste
100g oat flour
2 tbsp ground flaxseed
50g pecans
200g cooked brown rice (75g dry rice is approximately 200g cooked)
Put the onion in a food processor and pulse until it is the texture of cooked rice. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large frying pan, add the onion and fry for 10 mins until soft and pale golden. Stir in the garlic and fry for another minute. Remove the mixture to a large bowl and set aside.
Now put the mushrooms in the food processor and pulse until they are as small as the onions. Heat the remaining oil in the pan, add the mushrooms and fry for 10‐15 mins, until any liquid released has
evaporated and the mushrooms are tender. Add to the bowl with the onions.
Place the tofu, black beans, beetroot, miso paste, tomato purée, mayonnaise, flour, and flaxseed into the food processor and blitz until smooth. Add seasoning then mix this with the cooked veg. Pulse the pecans and half the cooked rice in the food processor until finely chopped. Add this mixture and the remaining rice to the veg too.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into little burger‐shaped patties about the same size as the buns. Vegetable burgers are more fragile than meat burgers so chill in the fridge for at least 30 mins before cooking. I usually pop them in the freezer rather than the fridge.
To cook, heat a frying pan over a medium heat. Brush both sides of the burgers with a little oil. Cook for 5‐8 mins on each side, turning once after a crust has formed, until hot through to the centre. Avoid moving or turning them too often, as they may break up. Toast the buns on the open side, then spread each with a little chilli jam, and fill with lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, avocado with lime, cheese and mayo..
Romance Fraud
Arun Neighbourhood Policing Team
Romance fraud is one of the fastest growing crime types. Criminals are experts at impersona ng others and when it comes to commi ng romance fraud they spend hours researching you for their scams.
You think you’ve met the perfect partner online but really these fraudsters are using a fake profile to form a rela onship with you during which they invest a significant amount of me to gain your trust with their end goal being gaining your money or personal informa on.
To keep yourself and your loved ones safe from Romance Fraud scammers, remember DATES:
Don’t rush into an online rela onship – get to know the person, not the profile: ask plenty of ques ons.
Analyse their profile – confirm the person’s iden ty. Check the person is genuine by pu ng their name, profile pictures or any repeatedly‐used phrases and the term ‘da ng scam’ into your search engine.
Talk to your friends and family – be wary of anyone who tells you not to tell others about them.
Evade scams – never send money or share your bank details with someone you’ve only met online, no ma er what reason they give or how long you’ve been speaking to them.
Stay on the da ng site messenger service –don’t use email, phone, social media or other messaging apps un l you’re confident the person is who they say they are.
Signs to spot:
Be wary of giving out informa on in a chatroom / on a website. Fraudsters will be quick to make conversa on more personal to get informa on out of you, but may not tell you much about themselves that you can check or verify.
Romance fraudsters o en claim to have high ranking roles that keep them away from home for a long me. This can be a ploy to deter your suspicions around not mee ng in person.
Fraudsters may a empt to steer you away from cha ng on a legi mate da ng site that
can be monitored. Stay on the pla orm that you started using ini ally, rather than switching to email, text or phone.
A fraudster may tell a sob story in order to get you to give them money – popular claims are they have an ill rela ve or they are stranded in another country. They may not ask directly for the money, hoping you will offer it out of the goodness of your heart. Do not do this.
O en, fraudsters will ask vic ms to accept money into their bank account and then transfer it to another bank account. This is very likely to be a form of money laundering and you could be commi ng a criminal offence.
If you suspect romance fraud or have concerns about someone who may be vulnerable to romance fraud, please report it to us online or on 101.
Alterna vely you can report suspicions of romance fraud anonymously to Scamaly cs, where using the online form you can enter images, names and details of poten al romance fraudsters.
County Buildings, East Street, Li lehampton, BN17 6AR
Monday to Friday from 10am un l 2pm and from 3pm un l 6pm.
We work closely with Neighbourhood Watch and you can find out more about your local scheme online or by emailing.
Visit the Arun Neighbourhood Watch website: arunwestnhw.org.uk and for more info email: info@arunwestnhw.org.uk
Call us: on 101 to report a crime or 999 if it’s an emergency.
Email us: arun@sussex.police.uk
When to Prune Clema s
by Rachael Leverton
Clema s are categorized into three main pruning groups: 1, 2, and 3. These groups are determined by the plant's flowering me and the age of the flowering wood.
Group 1 clema s bloom early in the year, flowering on the previous year's growth. These varie es, like the alpine clema s, produce flowers in late spring and are generally the least demanding in terms of pruning. Pruning, if necessary, should be done immediately a er flowering. The goal is to remove dead or weak stems and to shape the plant, but heavy pruning is not needed. If le unpruned, these clema s can become a tangle of old wood with few flowers.
Group 2 clema s flower in late spring or early summer on short shoots developing from the previous year's growth and o en have a second, less vigorous flush in late summer on the current year's growth. Examples include the popular varie es like 'Nelly Moser' and 'Miss Bateman'. Pruning for Group 2 should be light, focusing on removing dead and weak stems in late winter or early spring, so February is the perfect me. You can also lightly prune a er the first flowering to encourage a more robust second bloom.
Group 3 clema s flower on the current year's growth, producing blooms from mid to late summer un l the first frost. This group includes varie es like 'Jackmanii' and 'Sweet Autumn Clema s'. They require more extensive pruning, cut back almost to ground level (15‐30 cm above the ground) in February. This encourages strong new growth and a profusion of flowers at a manageable height.
Why prune at all? It’s important because it rejuvenates the plant by encouraging new growth, which is essen al for flowering, par cularly in Group 2 and 3 clema s. It helps maintain the shape and size of the plant, preven ng it from becoming unruly and tangled.
When pruning, always use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts. This prevents damage to the plant and reduces the risk of disease. A er pruning, it's beneficial to apply a balanced fer lizer and mulch to provide nutrients and maintain soil moisture.
Snowdrop Gardens at NGS
By Kate Harrison West Sussex Na onal Garden Scheme Publicity Officer
Put on your hats, gloves and wellies and head out to enjoy the heart‐warming pleasure of Na onal Garden Scheme Snowdrop Gardens this February and March.
Each year the Na onal Garden Scheme starts the garden visi ng season with its inspira onal Snowdrop and Spring Flower gardens.
Hundreds of gardens sprinkled with snowdrops – these deligh ul harbingers of spring – and wonderful, colour contras ng spring blooms including the bright gold of aconites and so purple of crocus, open their gates to the public from late January through February and into March.
“A er the long, dark winter months, the appearance of these beau ful early spring flowers really li s the spirits and heralds the start of all the wonderful gardens to come,” says Na onal Garden Scheme Chief Execu ve, George Plumptre. “Year on year more and more people discover the joys of these late winter / early spring garden visits, many of which are accompanied by tea and cake.”
Eight beau ful gardens open their gates in West Sussex in February and March, as part of this wonderful celebra on of the new garden visi ng season.
For descrip ons and more details about the gardens listed below visit the Na onal Garden Scheme Website h ps://ngs.org.uk
This garden opens for By Arrangement visits from 8th February to 10th October for groups of between 10 and 30.
Sunday 11th February
Sandhill Farm House, Rogate, GU31 5HU
Refreshments: Home‐made teas.
Admission Adult: £5.00 Child: Free
Opening mes 12:00 ‐ 16:00
Thursday 15th February
Highdown Gardens, Worthing, BN12 6FB
Admission: By Dona on
Opening mes: 10:00 ‐ 16:30
Sunday 18th February and Sunday 17th March
Manor of Dean, Petworth, GU28 9AP
Book your ckets in advance on the NGS Website or you can just turn up and pay on the day.
Refreshments: Home‐made teas.
Admission Adult: £5.00 Child: Free
Opening mes: 14:00 ‐ 16:00
This garden opens for By Arrangement visits from 5th February to 14th June for groups of 20+.
Thursday 29th February and
Tuesday 5th March
Crossland Flower Nursery Walberton BN18 0AX
A 2‐hour all access tour of a fourth genera on, award‐winning, sustainably run flower nursery with 3 acres of glasshouses filled to the brim with Sussex grown alstroemeria. There will be an opportunity to purchase flowers at the end of the tour.
For this open day you need to pre‐book your cket in advance on the NGS Website
Refreshments: Tea.
Admission Adult: £10.00 Child: Free
Opening mes: 10:00 ‐ 12:00
The Friendship Singers
We are a small, friendly women’s choir singing in three parts, soprano, mezzo soprano and alto and sing a variety of music styles from Hollywood musicals, popular classics, ABBA and folk tunes. We perform two main concerts a year, at Christmas and in the summer. Admission to our concerts is free, with donations invited for our chosen charity.
Our first concert for three years (following Covid lockdown) was a Christmas Concert held in December 2022. This was very well received and raised £307 for the local Ukraine project. As a result of an article in the January/February editions of “All about” magazine we were delighted to recruit a few more members which enhanced the choir’s performance and encouraged us to offer our services to local charities.
Throughout 2023 we sang for ‐Foresight: a charity that supports blind and partially sighted people
Haviland House Care Home, Worthing Green Willow Residential Care Home, East Preston
Our own summer concert attracted a very large audience. We selected the homelessness
charity “Turning Tides” as our favoured charity and we raised £502.
This year’s Christmas Concert, held in Rustington Methodist Church, raised £431 for the Chestnut Tree Children’s Hospice.
Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings at St Andrew’s Church, Holmes Lane, Rustington, from 7.30 – 9.30pm. We live up to our name and are a very friendly choir! Terry Warren is our conductor and Ann Waters is our accompanist. Spring term begins on 24th January 2024.
We would still like to recruit some new members so, if you read music, please think about joining us. If you are interested please email Margaret at margaretdwhite@gmail.com.
The first casualty of World War 1
from Kingston and East Preston
by Graham Lewis with acknowledgements to Richard Standing and Ann Cory
Follow Kingston Lane from East Preston, passing what is now known as Kingston Manor and con nuing across the fields, and just before a sharp bend leading to the Kingston Gorse private estate you will see East Kingston House, with a large pond beyond it. This was the former manor house of Kingston, although largely rebuilt in the 18th and 19th centuries.
In this house from around 1902 lived John Candy, a farmer from Froyle in Hampshire, with his wife Emily and three sons, John Geoffrey (born 1897), Philip Sadler (b. February 1899) and Edward Ivo (b. 1902). By all accounts, the three brothers enjoyed an idyllic childhood in Kingston, with their farmland all around and down to the sea, and a pond on which to skate and sail boats.
Like his brothers, Philip a ended Lancing College, but in 1912 he le to begin his training as a Royal Navy cadet, ini ally at HMS Conway, a cadet school ship on the Mersey, and then at Dartmouth Naval College. Perhaps his choice of career was influenced by the fact that his mother was the daughter of a Royal Navy captain. Philip became a Midshipman in August 1914, soon a er the outbreak of what was known as the Great War.
cruisers patrolling the east Pacific. Ordered to a ack a convoy of German cruisers off the coast of Chile, the ageing Bri sh ships found themselves facing enemy vessels which were much be er armed and powered. A er resolutely enduring many hours of sustained enemy fire, the crippled Monmouth was eventually given a chance to surrender but her captain followed Royal Navy tradi on and refused, even though by then his ship was lis ng badly and was no longer able to retaliate. At 9pm on 1st November, the Monmouth capsized with all hands, a total of 687 officers and men. Among them was Midshipman Philip Candy. He was fi een years old.
Photos in the family photo album taken in April 1914 showed what at the me was an amusing incident, when the three teenage boys were playing in a small boat on the nearby pond and slowly sank into the shallow water. Despite being fully dressed, they managed to smile for the camera as they stood in water up to their thighs. These photos were to take on a poignant significance in the light of events later that year.
Now a Midshipman, and with war declared, Philip entered ac ve service on HMS Monmouth, an armoured cruiser. In November 1914 the ship was part of a convoy of four
There is a memorial tablet in Ferring parish church. He is commemorated on the East Kingston war memorial, just down the lane from his home, as well as on the memorials for East Preston & Kingston in St Mary’s church and in The Street, East Preston, and on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon.
Philip’s elder brother Geoffrey trained as an army officer at Sandhurst, joining the Royal Flying Corps, and later the RAF. He gained the DFC in 1918 and lived un l 1955. He was the only one of the brothers to marry but had no children. Ivo Candy, the youngest brother, became the first President of the East Preston & Kingston Preserva on Society, inaugurated in 1971. He died in 1975.
Local Charity receives £385,000
of Na onal Lo ery Funding
Local charity, Carers Support West Sussex (CSWS), celebrates a er receiving £385,000 of Na onal Lo ery funding to run an exci ng coaching programme for 720 unpaid carers, over the next 3 years.
CSWS are celebra ng a er being awarded £385,000 in Na onal Lo ery funding to work with carers through their innova ve carer coaching programme. The local West Sussex charity will offer tailored coaching to 720 friend and family carers in West Sussex over three years, from April 2024. The groundbreaking programme seeks to improve carers’ emo onal wellbeing and help achieve their personal goals.
Following on from a carer coaching pilot funded by West Sussex County Council, an independent evalua on by the University of Kent revealed that the coaching was perceived as overwhelmingly posi ve by par cipants. Several key themes emerged such as carers gaining confidence, increased self‐worth, shi ing to a more ‘can do’ a tude, and feelings from the carers that they had more choice and control over their caring situa on.
Many carers iden fied being listened to and having the space and ‘permission’ to focus on their concerns in a suppor ve and safe environment as primary benefits.
One carer who took part in the pilot scheme said: “When I started the coaching, I struggled to believe my life could be be er. Now I play a sport, have done more social ac vi es, completed a mindfulness course, and have an established art prac ce.”
Sonia Mangan, CEO of CSWS says, “We’re delighted that The Na onal Lo ery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way. Now, thanks to Na onal Lo ery players, we will be able to help 800 carers in West Sussex transform their lives to become more confident and make posi ve changes within their caring role. This coaching programme supports the very ethos of this charity.”
The Na onal Lo ery Community Fund recently launched its new strategy, ‘It starts with community’, which will underpin its efforts to distribute at least £4 billion of Na onal Lo ery funding by 2030.
As part of this, the funder has four key missions which are: to support communi es to come together, be environmentally sustainable, help children and young people thrive and enable people to live healthier lives.
Na onal Lo ery players raise over £30 million a week for good causes across the UK. Thanks to them, last year The Na onal Lo ery Community Fund was able to distribute over half a billion pounds (£615.4 million) of life‐changing funding to communi es.
To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk
About Carers Support West Sussex:
Carers Support West Sussex is a local charity suppor ng unpaid carers in West Sussex. Carers Support offer guidance and prac cal and emo onal support. Their vision is to bring the day forward when family and friend carers are seen, heard, and included.
For more informa on, visit: h ps:// www.carerssupport.org.uk/
Bigger and be er Worthing Fes val
to return in June 2024
It’s official, the Worthing Fes val is coming back next summer, with work already underway to deliver an even bigger and be er celebra on of arts and culture in the town.
Following the ambi ous debut fes val earlier this year, the mul ‐arts celebra on is confirmed to be returning next summer for two weeks of ac on‐packed events covering music, dance, art, heritage, comedy and more. The fes val will run from 8th to 23rd June 2024.
Cllr Rita Garner, Worthing’s cabinet member for culture and leisure, was overwhelmed by the support for a second fes val following conversa ons with the town’s businesses and crea ve community. It’s es mated that the debut fes val brought more than 14,000 visitors to the town centre over nine days. With the support of the town’s ar sts, performers and businesses, the fes val’s organisers have been preparing a bigger and be er celebra on for the town next year. The Worthing Fes val was inspired through conversa ons between Worthing Borough Council and the town’s strong arts community, who asked for an event to help promote the wealth of local crea ve talent. A mul ‐arts fes val was decided upon and brought to life by Time for Worthing, the council’s official tourism arm.
Next year’s celebra on will be longer than its predecessor to ensure a greater number of performances, events and workshops can be registered, as well as spread over more days by organisers.
Local venues and crea ves that are keen to par cipate in this year’s fes val are being invited to register their events from 15th January 2024 on the Worthing Fes val sec on of the Time for Worthing website.
Bookable support sessions will be held for event organisers in the run up to the fes val ‐ the first of these will be on Thursday 18th January as part of Colonnade House’s Professional Development Week.
The official branding for this year’s fes val will be revealed in the new year as part of a
compe on held for the talented students of Northbrook College. Last year, student Jessica Galbraith had her design front and centre of the fes val’s marke ng.
Cllr Rita Garner said: “It’s hugely exci ng to confirm that the Worthing Fes val will be returning next summer.
“Following last year’s debut fes val it was amazing to hear how many people had a great me in the town enjoying the host of live music, crea ve workshops, heritage talks and comedy performances on offer.
“By working together with our talented locals, great venues and town’s arts forum, we hope to deliver a bigger and be er fes val for our residents and visitors to enjoy next year.”
New social media accounts have also been launched on Facebook, Instagram and X to create dedicated pages where people can learn about the fes val and its events.
The Connect to Support website is for anyone in West Sussex who is looking for additional help or support to maintain their independence. Do you need help to use the website?
Visit our website to:
• discover tips on improving your health and wellbeing
• view equipment to help you stay independent
• find support for carers
• learn about options for extra care and support.
Worthing Camera Club
Established in 1904, Worthing Camera Club has been at the forefront of the ever‐evolving world of photography. Regardless of skill level, we enthusias cally embrace both new and returning members. We currently have members who enjoy being crea ve with their Smartphone Cameras and others who use compact, DSLR and Mirrorless cameras. So as long as you have a camera, you will be able to join in on our challenges and compe ons.
We have a strong social side to our community, thriving on a regular schedule of talks, club compe ons, educa onal evenings, engaging ou ngs and social events.
During the September to April season we meet weekly, striking a balance between in‐person gatherings at the Heene Community Centre and virtual mee ngs via Zoom. Recognizing the value of online connec vity post‐Covid, we've tapped into an array of excep onal photographers across the UK. Our talks cover all manner of photographic genres (Landscape, Wildlife, Street, Macro, Abstract). Also, for those unable to a end in person, we broadcast our in‐person mee ngs via Zoom, ensuring everyone is included. Even during the “out of season months” we organise regular ou ngs, which not only provide opportuni es for prac sing photographic skills, but also foster social
connec ons among members in a relaxed se ng.
Curious about joining? Feel free to drop in on one of our Workshop evenings and experience firsthand the joy of sharing this endlessly cap va ng and evolving interest with us, without making a commitment to join. For more informa on and updates on events, check out our annual programme on our website: www.worthingcameraclub.org.uk
Alterna vely, why not join us on our Facebook page (you don’t have to be a member to join and take part in our monthly challenges), or follow us on Instagram @worthingcameraclub. We do hope you decide to join us and look forward to mee ng you soon.
World Day of Prayer‐ Friday 1st March
The theme is "I beg you ... bear with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:1‐3) and the service was put together by Chris an women in Pales ne.
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 Pales nian Chris an women who wrote this worship service have invited the world to pray for peace, jus ce and freedom of religion and freedom of movement. Their prayers specifically call us to pray with women, refugees, persons experiencing homelessness, and all who are sick, dying and grieving.
The Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer in
na ve languages travels throughout the world; through Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas before finishing in American Samoa 38 hours later.
The 2024 World Day of Prayer event in our area will be held in East Preston St Mary the Virgin Church at 2.30pm on Friday 1st March 2024. It is a short service, with refreshments in the Spire Room a erwards. All are welcome!
For further informa on and resources, together with details of services in your area, see the WDP website: wwdp.org.uk
The Reconstruc on of Arundel Castle
Exhibi on at Arundel Museum
Here at Arundel Museum, we have various exci ng events scheduled for 2024! Even though Arundel Castle itself is closed for the winter, the Museum is showcasing an exhibi on on its reconstruc on by Duke Henry in the late 19th century.
The story of the rebuilding is one not previously covered and includes fascina ng insights on the people and technology that went into construc ng the castle we see today. The exhibi on opened in October and we’ve received great feedback – it con nues un l April 2024, normal hours are 10am to 4pm every day. Please check our website for more up‐to‐date informa on.
The Museum is also proud to announce we have been awarded a Na onal Lo ery Heritage Fund grant for a project covering the English Civil War in southern England. Beginning in early 2024, this will include delivery to local schools, talks for adults, learning the music and songs of the era, with the Museum hos ng an exhibi on which opened in October. Please
check our website to learn more!
In addi on, we have our usual schedule of events covering a wide range of ac vi es for all ages, plus exhibits covering 2,000 years of Arundel history; we look forward to seeing you!
Help fight record Asian hornet invasion
The Bri sh Beekeepers’ Associa on (BBKA) is calling on the public to help fight a major threat to honey bees and other pollinators ‐ Asian hornets.
Numbers of the destruc ve insect rose rapidly last summer and more have been detected in the UK this last year than in the previous six years combined.
BBKA Chair, Diane Drinkwater, said: “It was extremely worrying to see so many cases last summer. We must act now to stop them from ge ng established in this country. Reports from Europe and Jersey indicate that last year was an excep onal year for Asian hornets with record numbers of queens and nests.
“We urge the public to join forces with beekeepers to protect our honey bees and other pollinators from this voracious predator.”
More than 1,000 beekeepers across the country are part of elite teams trained to provide emergency support to the Na onal Bee Unit’s (NBU) hornet hunters.
Hornet sigh ngs are filtered by the NBU, part of Defra, and teams of bee inspectors deployed to track hornets back to their nests which are then destroyed.
But the help of the eagle‐eyed public is essen al to spot the hornets which may be devouring insects or feeding on fallen fruit or ivy flowers.
Asian hornets (Vespa velu na) are slightly smaller than na ve European hornets, have yellow legs, an orange face and brown body with one yellow stripe.
Last summer beekeeper Mick Brian discovered an Asian hornet in his garden in Plymouth which eventually led to the destruc on of two nests: “We watched in stunned silence as the insect singled out a honey bee, carried it to a nearby leaf, and began to dissect it.”
Also last summer, one keen‐eyed gardener spo ed an Asian hornet in Newhaven, which was traced back to its nest and the nest was subsequently destroyed.
Just one Asian hornet can hunt down and eat 300 honey bees a day and their habit of hawking (hovering) outside the hive stops the
bees from collec ng nectar and pollen to feed themselves.
Diane added: “Asian hornets are wreaking havoc in Europe and we fear if they get a foot‐hold in the UK our honey bees and many other insects will be decimated here, too. They are the greatest threat to beekeeping since the Varroa mite was discovered more than 30 years ago.”
In 2023 71 Asian hornet nests were found in 55 loca ons. The last nest found, which was in Tenterden, Kent, was destroyed in November 2023.
BBKA trustee Julie Coleman, who lives in Kent where many of the hornets discovered this year have been found, said there are likely to be several reasons behind this huge rise in cases: “The fact that we seem to have a cluster around the coast in Kent, also Dorset, Plymouth, Weymouth and Hampshire makes me think they are coming across on the wind. And there could have been an overwintered nest in Kent which has sent out hiberna ng queens in the autumn.”
It is important to take care not to approach or disturb a nest. Asian hornets are not generally aggressive towards people but an excep on to this is when they perceive a threat to their nest. People who suspect they have seen an Asian hornet should report it immediately using the phone app ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ or the online repor ng form: h ps://risc.brc.ac.uk/alert.php? species=asian_hornet
Tide Times Li lehampton
Learn to sail at Arun Youth Aqua Centre
Arun Youth Aqua Centre was founded in 1977 and is a registered charity. It offers all young people aged 8‐18 the opportunity to learn to sail in a safe and fun environment whilst keeping costs to a minimum. All that is required of potential members is that they are water confident and provide their own suitable clothing. The centre runs sailing sessions on the sea from the first Sunday in May through to October, with sailing on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. The sailing sessions are run by Royal Yachting Association (RYA) qualified adult volunteers and provide the youngsters the opportunity to develop their sailing skills at their own pace whilst working towards Stages 1‐4 of the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme and beyond. The centre owns its own boats and has a variety of dinghies which are suited to people of varying ages and experience. The centre is inspected annually by the RYA and is registered as an approved training centre.
An active programme is run throughout the season from our base in Hendon Avenue, Littlehampton as well as opportunities to race with other youth sailing groups from around West Sussex. The emphasis of the programme is to have fun whilst learning, and many long‐lasting friendships have been made over the years.
Parents are encouraged to participate and to help out at the centre as much as possible in any way that they can. Family sessions are organised so that relatives can join the youngsters on the water. A free taster session is available to anyone who is interested in learning to sail. If you would like further information email admin@ayac.org.uk, visit our website at www.ayac.org.uk or search for “Arun Youth Aqua Centre” on Facebook.
A history of Leap Years
Leap years are a concept that might seem merely a quirk of the calendar, but they are rooted in a rich history of astronomical observa ons, mathema cal calcula ons, and fascina ng folklore. Spanning across cultures and centuries, the story of leap years reveals humanity's ongoing quest to align our mekeeping with the cosmos.
The history of the leap year begins with our understanding of the solar year ‐ the me it takes the Earth to complete one orbit around the Sun. Early astronomers no ced that this period was not exactly 365 days but rather approximately 365.25 days. This extra quarter of a day presented a significant challenge: without adjustment, the calendar year would gradually dri away from the solar year, causing significant mismatches over me.
The solu on to this problem was first systema cally implemented in the Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC. Advised by the astronomer Sosigenes of Alexandria, Caesar reformed the Roman calendar by adding an extra day every four years to account for the addi onal quarter day. This leap day was added to February, tradi onally the last month of the Roman year, making it 29 days instead of 28 in leap years.
However, the Julian calendar overcompensated slightly because the actual solar year is approximately 11 minutes less than 365.25 days. This discrepancy led to the introduc on of the Gregorian calendar in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII, which refined the leap year rule. According to the Gregorian system, a year is a leap year if it is divisible by 4, but century years must be divisible by 400. Thus, 1600 and 2000 were leap years, but 1700, 1800, and 1900 were not.
Beyond the technicali es, leap years are wrapped in a tapestry of folklore and tradi ons, one of which is the prac ce where women are encouraged to propose marriage to men on February 29th. This custom was popularized in the Bri sh Isles, breaking the conven on of men ini a ng marriage proposals.
In some cultures, leap years are considered unlucky. In Greece, for instance, couples usually avoid marrying in a leap year, and especially on a leap day. Conversely, in other tradi ons, leap years are seen as mes of renewal and change. The Chinese believe that a leap year is an auspicious me to e the knot.
In 1712, Sweden briefly experienced a unique calendar date, February 30th! This anomaly occurred twelve years a er Sweden's ini al decision in 1700 to switch from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. The change required elimina ng some days to align the calendars, which Sweden intended to achieve by omi ng leap days gradually. However, the outbreak of the Great Northern War in 1700 distracted the Swedes, leading them to overlook the omission of leap days in the subsequent years. By 1712, to simplify the transi on back to the Julian calendar, Sweden added an extra day to the usual leap year, resul ng in the one‐ me occurrence of February 30th. The complete shi to the Gregorian calendar was realized in 1753, and February 30th disappeared forever.
Council Leader calls for ‘den stry revival’ as 87%
of den sts in the South East shut door on new adult pa ents
NINE out of 10 dental surgeries who provided a recent update in the Worthing West area are no longer accep ng any new pa ents. The collapse of NHS den stry has le millions of pa ents unable to get an appointment when they need one and now 87.6% of den sts across the South East have shut their doors to new adult pa ents.
Analysis of pa ent survey data suggests that last year 4.75 million people were either told there were no appointments available or the prac ce wasn’t taking on new pa ents, when they last tried to book an appointment.
Cllr Dr Beccy Cooper, Leader of Worthing Borough Council and Labour’s Prospec ve Parliamentary Candidate for the Worthing West Cons tuency, said:
"The Conserva ves have le NHS den stry to well and truly rot and it is now out of reach for most in our communi es if they can’t afford to go private. Pa ents in Worthing West are told to go without or do it themselves, with DIY den stry now shockingly common in Tory Britain.
“A den stry revival is now needed across the country and if the Conserva ves are given a fi h term those who can afford it will con nue to go private while those who can't will go without den stry treatment.
“Labour has a fully‐costed plan to rescue NHS den stry by gripping the immediate crisis and reforming the service in the long‐term. We will provide 700,000 urgent appointments and recruit new den sts to the areas most in need, paid for by abolishing the non‐dom tax status.”
Labour will introduce a den stry rescue plan so pa ents can get an NHS den st again, as new analysis reveals the overwhelming majority of prac ces have shut their doors to new pa ents.
Healthwatch England has reported horror stories of people forced to pull their own teeth out, with one in 10 Brits claiming to have a empted their own dental work.
Vast parts of England are now ‘dental deserts’, where no den sts are available.
The government has launched a pilot in Cornwall where NHS den stry will only be offered to children and the most vulnerable.
Labour is promising to take immediate ac on to provide care for those in most urgent need, and long‐term reform to restore NHS den stry to all who need it. The party’s plans include:
• Funding NHS dental prac ces to provide 700,000 more urgent appointments, for pa ents in need of things like fillings and root canal.
• Incen ves for new den sts to work in areas with the greatest need, to tackle the emergence of ‘dental deserts’ where no NHS den sts are taking on new pa ents.
• Supervised toothbrushing in schools for 3‐5 year olds, targeted at the areas with highest childhood tooth decay.
• Reform the dental contract to rebuild the service in the long‐run, so NHS den stry is there for all who need it.
The plans will cost £111 million a year in total and be funded by abolishing the non‐dom tax status, which allows people who live and work in Britain to pay their taxes overseas.
Do you have the right ID to vote?
Do you have everything you need to be able to vote in a local or general elec on? Legisla on brought in by the government last year means that voters must show photo ID to be allowed to vote at polling sta ons in some elec ons.
The rules will apply to the Adur and Worthing local elec ons on 2nd May as well as for general elec ons. Anyone who’ll be vo ng in person at these elec ons will need to check that they have a valid form of photo ID which looks like them.
If you don’t have valid photo ID ‐ or are concerned about taking it to vote ‐ you can apply for a Voter Authority Cer ficate which will do the same job ‐ and you don’t have to wait un l it’s close to the elec on.
Acceptable forms of photo ID include passports, driving licences and older persons’ bus passes. The ID will need to be taken with you to the polling sta on when you vote.
Anyone who doesn’t have an accepted form of ID, or who is worried about taking important documents such as a passport to the polling sta on, can apply for a Voter Authority Cer ficate. These can be presented at the polling sta on on elec on day instead of a photo ID. Anyone vo ng by post doesn’t need ID. To apply for a postal vote, visit: h ps:// www.gov.uk/apply‐postal‐vote
The new rules were in place for last year’s local elec ons in May, before which 275 people successfully applied for a Voter Authority Cer ficate in Worthing.
Voters can apply for a Voter Authority Cer ficate online, or by filling out a paper applica on form to be submi ed to Adur & Worthing Councils. The physical applica on forms can be requested from the councils’ electoral services department by post, or picked up from Worthing Town Hall or the Shoreham Centre. The councils will also be opera ng an ‘in person’ applica on service for those who want to apply.
Residents must already be registered to vote to apply for a Voter Authority Cer ficate. The deadline to submit an applica on in me for the local elec ons in May is Wednesday 24th April at 5pm, but please do not leave it un l the last minute.
To apply online, visit: h ps://www.gov.uk/apply ‐for‐photo‐id‐voter‐authority‐cer ficate.
For more informa on about voter ID legisla on, and to see a complete list of accepted forms of ID, visit: h ps://www.adur‐worthing.gov.uk/ elec ons‐and‐vo ng/photographic‐voter‐id/.
Na onal Appren ceship Week
5th ‐ 11th February
Appren ceships in the UK represent one pathway for individuals seeking prac cal training and experience in a wide range of professions. They blend on‐the‐job training with academic learning, providing a unique opportunity for learners to earn while they learn.
An appren ceship is a structured training program that combines prac cal work with study. It allows individuals to gain hands‐on experience in a professional se ng while acquiring the necessary theore cal knowledge and skills. Appren ces are employed and earn a wage throughout their training, which can last between one and six years, depending on the level and field of study.
The history of appren ceships in the UK dates back to the Middle Ages when young people would become appren ces in various trades to learn a skill or cra . Ini ally, these were primarily in manual trades like blacksmithing, carpentry, and masonry. Today, appren ceships cover a mul tude of sectors, offering pathways into careers as varied as engineering, IT, finance, healthcare, construc on, and crea ve arts. They range from entry‐level opportuni es (equivalent to GCSE or A‐level qualifica ons) to higher and degree appren ceships that can lead to bachelor’s or master’s degree qualifica ons. This wide‐ranging scope makes appren ceships accessible to a broad audience, from school leavers to career changers.
The benefits of appren ceships are manifold. For appren ces, they provide the opportunity to gain prac cal experience, develop job‐specific skills, and build a professional network, all while earning a salary. Appren ceships are par cularly beneficial for those who prefer learning in a hands‐on environment rather than in a tradi onal classroom se ng. They also offer an alterna ve route to higher educa on qualifica ons without the associated tui on fees.
For employers, appren ceships are an effec ve way to develop a skilled workforce tailored to their specific needs. They enable businesses to train new and exis ng employees in the skills cri cal for their industries, fostering a commi ed and competent workforce.
Moreover, appren ceships play a significant role in the broader economy by addressing skill gaps and boos ng produc vity. They offer a pathway to upskill the workforce, meet the demands of emerging industries, and ensure that the UK's workforce is equipped to tackle future challenges.
In recent years, the UK government has ac vely promoted appren ceships, introducing incen ves for employers to offer appren ceships, and also crea ng new standards to ensure the quality and relevance of appren ceship programs. This support underlines the recogni on of the value of appren ceships as a crucial tool for personal development, business growth, and economic prosperity.
Appren ceships offer a unique blend of educa on and employment. They offer a prac cal route into a wide range of careers, equipping people with the skills and experience needed for professional success. As the employment landscape evolves, appren ceships will undoubtedly con nue to play a key role in shaping the workforce of the future.
Editor’s Note: My son is currently in Year 3 of a degree appren ceship. Every six months he changes his placement so he is gaining experience in many different roles. He lived in a student house for the first two years and now lives with another young professional. The company pay him a salary and all of his student fees so he will come out with no debt, a degree, four years’ work experience and a job. Win‐win!
