Rushfields Christmas at
Enjoy Christmas shopping without the stress
We will be Open Monday 23rd Dec
Plant Centre • Farm Shop • Café
Plant Centre & Farm Shop Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 9.00am – 5.30pm Café Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 9.00am – 4.30pm
Henfield Road Poynings, Brighton BN45 7AY
Kathryn has been working in horticulture since the age of 16 and has decades of experience in how to get the most out of your garden this month!
Kathryn is covering two of our most asked questions this month: how to care for your poinsettia and how to care for your live Christmas tree!
How to care for your Poinsettia
• Keep the plant in good light, but not sun
• Keep in a warm room away from radiators, fires, and cold draughts
• Water from the bottom of the pot and keep moist, but not wet
• Feed once a week with a poinsettia drip feeder
How to care for your fresh Christmas tree
• Once you get home cut 0.5” off the trunk and stand in water immediately
• When ready to bring indoors, position your tree away from any radiators and fireplaces
• Make sure to choose a stand that can hold a good amount of water
• Check your tree daily for water and top up when necessary
• Don’t forget that your tree can be recycled after Christmas – check for local recycling centres!
Editor’s Letter
There’s something really special about seeing the Christmas lights go up in the High Street, having a wander in the evening when the shops are closed to see the pretty festive displays and hunt for the knitted sheep from the Sheep Trail hidden amongst the trees and lights.
This year is even more special; at BN5 we’re supporting Horsham District Council’s Christmas Magic Displays Competition, and as an extra ‘Henfield only’ prize, you can win a lovely hamper of goodies donated by the participating High Street businesses - something really special for under your tree!
It’s so easy, just scan the QR code in participating windows (also listed on page 32 of this magazine) and place your votes. You can also vote for the district-wide prizes, and help a Henfield window to win overall, which is great publicity for our village. Winners will be announced 16 December.
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas, thank you for reading BN5 and for sending us your great stories, events and news. Thank you also for supporting all the local businesses who advertise with us, please keep shopping locally and using the trusted tradespeople in our magazine!
Emma Cole, Editor
Copy deadline & contacts
06 What’s On from the BN5 area
09 News from the BN5 area
26 Festive Henfield
High Street Shopping & Tree Festival
32 Festive Henfield
Christmas Magic Displays Competition
35 Local History
Tracing the Rails - the Steyning Line
43 Festive Henfield
Henfield Festive Artisan Market
44 Local Interest Challenge Annie for the Haven
48 Local Interest
Diana Joy Norman
56 Festive Henfield
BP Guild Sleigh Rounds & Deliveries
66 Local Interest
Henfield Remembers 2024
74 Index
Of local advertisers
Many thanks to our editorial and photographic contributors this month:
Chris Kirk, William Norman, Horsham District Council, Sarah Butler and Jonathan Aikens.
Cover photograph of festive windows by Emma Cole with graphic design by Ali at Fuzz Media.
BN5 magazine is printed on 100% FSC approved managed forests paper using vegetable-based inks.
Copy deadline for advertisements or editorial submissions for the January 25 issue of BN5 magazine is Friday 6 December.
If you have a local interest story for us please email editor@bn5magazine.co.uk. If your not-for-profit club, group or charity has an event you would like us to publish on our what’s on pages, please submit via our website www.henfieldbn5.co.uk, this gives you additional automatic website entry. Please note we no longer accept postal or email diary submissions due to potential inaccuracies when transcribing. Priority is given to local, charitable and non-repeating events when we are oversubscribed. Advertiser Terms and Conditions and all Disclaimers appear on our website. For advertising enquiries or to receive a media pack please email sales@bn5magazine.co.uk
Christmas at Nymans
Now until Sun 5 January, various times, Nymans Gardens
Step through the wardrobe and into Narnia at Nymans this Christmas. Event included in admission fee. See details and book at www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Glow Wild
Now until 1st Jan 2025, various times, Wakehurst
Lantern trail for the whole family with a new route and art installations. Booking essential, www.kew.org/wakehurst
Tracing the Rails
Mon 2 December, 3-9pm, The Old Railway Pub
Do you have memories or memorabilia of the Steyning Line which passed through Henfield? Filming takes place on the day. www.tracingtherails.com Details on page 35.
Santa’s Sleigh Rounds
Mon 2 – Fri 13 December, 7pm onwards, various dates around Henfield
Henfield B-P Guild’s annual Santa Sleigh visits around the village with carols, collecting for good causes. See all locations and dates on page 56.
Leonardslee Lights
Now until Mon 30 December, various times Enjoy the magical illuminated gardens at Leonardslee, Lower Beeding, with light, sound and colour. Booking essential, www.leonardleegardens.co.uk
Nativity Sheep Trail
Sun 1 December –31st, Henfield High Street
Locate and identify the 20 sheep hidden in Henfield shop windows, forms available from Henfield Library, a small prize for the winner.
Details on page 26.
Christmas Magic Displays Competition
Mon 2– Sun 15 December
Vote for your favourite by scanning the QR code in participating High Street windows, win prizes including a Henfield Hamper of goodies donated by local businesses. Details page 32.
PTA Christmas Market
Thurs 5 December, 3.45-4.45pm and 6-9pm, White Hart
Festive shopping, stalls, raffles and St Peter’s School Choir. Proceeds to St Peter’s PTA.
Christmas by Candlelight
Thurs 5 December, 7-9pm, St Peter’s Woodmancote
Follow candles to the Church and enjoy traditional music and carols from BF5+ Brass Quintet and The Bothy Singers. Tickets £10 from www.brassfusion.co.uk
Henfield Christmas Shopping Evening
Fri 6 December, 4-8pm, High Street
Shops open with lots of treats, market stalls, Santa’s grotto & sleigh, reindeer and street entertainers too. Details page 27.
Christmas Wine Tasting Weekends
Sat 7 – Sun 8
December (and other dates) 11am-5pm, Albourne Estate Come and sample Albourne’s wines before Christmas, also on 14-15 and 21-22 December. www.albourneestate. co.uk to book.
Festive Bauble Workshop
Sat 7 December, 11am-1pm, 3-5pm, Albourne Estate
Join artist Ella Berthould to design and paint your own Christmas baubles. Includes sparkling wine, tickets £20 www.albourneestate. co.uk to book.
Christmas Tree Festival
Fri 6 – Sun 8 December, Evangelical Free Church
A beautiful display of decorated trees from businesses and clubs, vote for your favourite. Details page 26.
Winter Wonderland
Sat 7 December, 10am-2pm, Henfield Youth Club
Join Activ8 Nursery for their charity fundraiser, with festive stalls and activities as well as an appearance from Santa, in aid of Children with Cancer UK.
B-P Guild Jumble Sale
Sat 7 December, 2pm, Henfield Hall
Have a pre-Christmas clear out and purchase some gifts, too! Good quality jumble accepted on the morning of the Sale at the Henfield Hall.
Christmas
is Coming Concert
Sat 7 December, 6.30-9pm, Henfield Hall
Annual concert in aid of St Barnabas House
Hospice, tickets from Stokes £6 adults £1 children. See details on News pages.
Festive Henfield Artisan Market
Sun 8 December, 10am-2pm, Cooper’s Way Car Park
Local produce and handmade gifts, as well as festive entertainment. For details see page 43.
Christmas for the Community
Sun 8 December, 2.30pm,
Beeding & Bramber Village Hall
Join Brass Fusion for an afternoon of festive entertainment, suitable for the whole family. £10 entry on the door. www.brassfusion.co.uk
‘A Dickens of Christmas’
Mon 9 December, 2.30-3.30pm, Henfield Hall
Join the Arts Society Henfield for a lively talk by Bertie Price on the seasonal traditions with characterisations and maybe magic tricks. Guests £10 each. Refreshments from 2pm.
Antiques Valuation and Buying
Thurs 12 December, 10-4pm, Henfield Hall
Join Henry Nicholls (ITV’s Dickenson’s Real Deal) and his son Peter to have your antiques valued with a potential to sell. See page 41 for details.
Steyning Bookshop
Birthday Drawing Ding-Dong!
Sun 8 December, from 1pm, Steyning Bookshop
Join the 40th birthday celebrations with star illustrators Sophy Henn, Steven Lenton, Nick Sharratt and Adam Stower. Tickets £5 www.steyningbookshop.co.uk
Light up a Life
Mon 9 December, 6pm, Worthing Assembly Hall
The St Barnabas House Hospice annual remembrance event, with carols, readings and reflections. Free entry but please book your space to ensure a seat. www.stbarnabas-hospice.org.uk
Anna Karenina
Weds 11 – Sat 14 December, The Barn Theatre, Southwick
Presented by Wick Theatre. Tolstoy’s epic brought to life. Tickets £12 from www.wicktheatre.co.uk
Carols by Candlelight at Albourne
Fri 20 December, 7-10pm, Albourne Wine Estate
Carols and festive songs, plus wine and canapes (please order food in advance). Booking essential, over 18 only. www.albourneestate.co.uk
Candlelit Carols at Tottington
Sat 21, Sun 22, Mon 23 December, 6.30pm, Tottington Manor
Led by a professional choir. £1 donation per ticket for Tabletalk, a food education charity. Limited tickets, book at www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk
Carol Service
Sun 22 December, 5.30pm, St Peter’s Church
Carol service followed by mulled wine and mince pies.
For details of all Henfield festive church services throughout the village please see page 22.
Christmas Tree Disposal
Sat 4 January (book by Weds 1 Jan), collection from your home
Fundraiser for Scout Hut Building Appeal, £10 donation per tree. Contact 07929 840321 or Featherstone.n@btinternet.com to book.
Scrooge!
Thurs 9 – Sat 11 January, Henfield Hall
Henfield Theatre Company presents Scrooge! A musical complete with joyful songs and holiday magic. Tickets £15 or £17.50 from Stevens or online www.henfieldtheatrecompany.com
Peggy’s Poochy Christmas Party
Sun 22 December, 9.30-11.30am, Berrett’s Farm
Christmas jumpers encouraged! All breeds welcome. Other events – see ad on page 21.
Mumming Play
Thurs 26 December, 11am Castle Inn, Bramber; 12.30pm Franklin Arms, Washington
Join Chanctonbury Ring Morris as they perform a traditional Boxing Day Mumming Play with carols after at Franklin Arms.
Chanctonbury Ring Morris
will be dancing Cotswold and performing our famous ‘Mumming Play’ on
Boxing Day
Thursday 26th December at the Castle Inn, Bramber (BN44 3WE) at 11.00am and the Frankland Arms Washington (RH20 4AL) at 12.30pm followed by Carol Singing in the pub
Contact us for details at crmm.org.uk
Tea and Chat
Following a successful 6-month pilot, Tea and Chat will be continuing as a regular monthly gettogether at Henfield Library. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy free refreshments whilst chatting with others in the warm and welcoming space of the library.
You can find out what the library has to offer and discover local events and clubs. If you are not in the mood to chat, why not come and have a drink and maybe add a few pieces to our library jigsaw puzzle, or just sit back and relax.
Tea and Chat is held the first Friday of every month from 2.30-4pm why not pop in for a cuppa and a cozy chat.
Beverley Kinahan, Families and Wellbeing Librarian
No.17 Bus Campaign in Partridge Green
Residents of Partridge Green have launched a campaign to reinstate the full service to Horsham through the village following the changes Stagecoach made at the beginning of September. We are pleased for residents in Henfield and on the main A281 that there is a more frequent service, but not so pleased it has come at the detriment of Partridge Green residents who have seen significant cuts to the existing service and have also been totally excluded from the Sunday service.
This is a backward step not just for Partridge Green but also the wider community, as public transport use needs to be encouraged more than ever to tackle congestion on our roads and vehicle emissions causing climate change.
We posed questions to Stagecoach and West Sussex County Council at a public meeting on 2nd October which around 150 people attended. Unfortunately, the meeting didn’t result in an agreement from Stagecoach to relook at the timetable which was hugely disappointing for everyone.
However, we were lucky enough to be joined at the meeting by John Milne MP and councillors from West Sussex County and Horsham District Councils. They are all fully supportive of our cause and have pledged to help where they can with our campaign.
Our petition to save the bus service now has over 1,500 signatures; thank you to everyone who has signed. We are so grateful to see our communities coming together – please continue to support us where you can. We are not giving up! For further details please contact clerk@ westgrinstead-pc.gov.uk
Cllr Suzie Hamblin-Boone
West Grinstead Parish Council
Henfield Football Club are scoring huge smiles again!
Henfield FC are thrilled to announce the launch of our Free Football Holiday Clubs for kids in our community. Henfield FC has been successfully awarded grants by Tesco Stronger Starts and
Come and relish the good life with us: Christmas supper bookings e Winter menu Event catering e Pizza parties e And much more Come & enjoy one of our pizzas with mulled wine or cider at Late Night Shopping on 6th December
Sussex Community Foundation to provide fully funded football camps for local children, starting in 2025. This free initiative is aimed to bring fun and football to anyone who takes part. These events will be free to attend and will even include snacks, drinks, lunch and some extra special footie goodies. They kick-off during the February half term and will offer a fun and inclusive environment to learn and play in. There will be two sessions operating during February half term week, from 9am-3pm, and they will be aimed at boys and girls in school years 1 to 6. There will further football camps running over the Easter holidays, May half term and the summer holidays.
Chanctonbury Ring Morris
Morris Dancing Taster Sessions
All welcome- come and try it!
Every* Wednesday night at 8pm at the Catholic Church Hall , Henfield from now through to May
*Contact us for details at crmm.org.uk
The camps are open to all local children, and you do not have to belong to Henfield Football Club to participate. Each session will be led by a team of experienced coaches who aim to foster teamwork, confidence and a love of the game. Spaces are limited to 24 children per session. Check out Henfield Football Club Socials for more details and to register your child’s interest!
Sally Gilbert, Henfield Football Club
Applications for primary and junior school places are now open
Applications are now open for children who start in reception at primary and infant schools across West Sussex in September 2025.
The quickest and easiest way to apply is online by searching ‘School places - West Sussex County Council’ and the deadline for applications is 15 January 2025. Children born between 1 September 2020 and 31 August 2021 are eligible to start school next September. Children who are currently in Year 2 at an infant school will also need to apply for a place to start a junior school in September next year.
We strongly advise that parents and carers apply on time, before 15 January 2025, which will give them the best chance of being offered one of their three preferences. Those who apply late are far less likely to get a place at one of their three preferred schools and will still need to apply, as they will not automatically be given a place.
Free use of computers with internet access is available in all West Sussex libraries, there’s no need to book. Those unable to apply online can request a form be e-mailed or through the post by calling 033 301 42903.
Parents/carers are advised:
• To include three preference schools on your application, listing them in order of preference.
• Parents/carers who want their child to go to their catchment school (where applicable) will need to include that school as a preference for it to be considered.
• If you apply after the closing date you are far less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools.
West Sussex County Council Admissions staff are available for those who need help with their application. Contact the admissions team by phoning 033 301 42903 or email the Admissions Team North: admissions.north@westsussex.gov.uk
West Sussex County Council
Winter Wonderland from Activ8
Saturday 7th December, 10am–2pm
Henfield Activ8 Nursery invite you to join them for their Winter Wonderland charity fundraiser. The event is free and will be fundraising for Children With Cancer UK.
The Winter Wonderland will host a variety of wonderful stalls and activities such as Interactive Stations (fill a stocking, make your own reindeer food etc), Stalls, Food, Drink, Raffles, games and much more. There may also be a visit from Santa! Please note the event is cash only.
Activ8 Nursery, Henfield
Christmas is Coming Concert
Its nearly Christmas, which means lots of goodies to eat and drink, partying and singing. A good place to start your celebrations is to
join in with the carol concert organised annually by the Henfield Friends of St Barnabas House Hospice. This year’s programme promises to be full of fun with the usual Christmas music and some surprises, too. The programme includes the popular Henfield Ukelele group, BP Guild, Trefoil Guild, Musical Youth, with festive readings from contributors together with talented solo stars. We wish to thank local businesses who have generously supported the Hospice by placing adverts in the programme and donating wonderful raffle prizes. The running costs of St Barnabas House rely mainly on volunteers and donations, so please join the choir to sing-a-long to your favourite carols.
Tickets for the concert on Saturday 7th December at 6.30pm in the Henfield Hall are available from Stokes Newsagents at £6 adults, £1 children, or by calling 07789 900295 or 07970 947399.
Arun Agarwal, Henfield Friends of St Barnabas
New children’s playground opens in Woodmancote
Woodmancote Parish Council announces the opening of its new playground located on Blackstone Playing Field.
The equipment was designed by a leading playground supplier and offers a safe and fun environment for children of all ages to enjoy
Trim & Proper
throughout the year. The Parish Council commissioned an independent inspection to ensure that it complied with the latest safety regulations and it will be checked weekly by the Playing Field ground staff. It is fully insured through the Sussex Cricket Federation.
“Blackstone Playing Field is a beautifully located facility open to the whole community, and it is hoped that the new playground will offer an extra attraction for residents and the wider community to come and enjoy the area,” says WPC Chair, Cllr Roger Noel. “Earlier in the year, the Council held a meeting for residents and children of all ages to express their preferences and wishes for the new playground. Based on this feedback, the playground has been designed to meet their expectations.”
The playground has soft safety matting under the swings and features a discovery tower and climbing frame, overhead grab bars, and with a basket swing for the very youngest. The area will be surrounded by a picket fence before the end of the year and will also contain picnic benches for the summer.
explains Cllr Wendy Noel. “However, the Council was keen to make sure that the equipment was up and running this Autumn so that it can be enjoyed by the community straight away. We would love everyone to come along to take a look!
For more information about Woodmancote Parish Council projects, and how to get involved, please contact: clerk@woodmancoteparishcouncil.gov.uk; or visit: www.woodmancoteparishcouncil.gov.uk
Cllr. Roger Noel
News from the Henfield Hall
I absolutely love Christmas, and the Henfield Hall is going to be sparkling and twinkly for the Festive season. I’d firstly like to thank the team at Rushfields for donating our gorgeous tree! Such a generous gesture.
We have some super activities going on throughout the festive season, and for the first time the Hall is going to be part of the Henfield Christmas Shopping Evening on December 6th, we will have some lovely stalls for you to browse and a little something for the children visiting the Hall. I am very excited about this and maybe you just might spot a few characters from Henfield Theatre Company’s next performance of Scrooge! Kevin and Marc (our caretakers) would make fabulous pantomime dames, I just need to persuade them to dress up!
Lots of Henfield clubs and groups are hosting their festive lunches and get togethers at the Hall, so if you are thinking of an office party or even a get together with friends over the Festive period, do have a look at our facilities, the rates are very reasonable. We are booking up very quickly so don’t leave it too late. I am always happy to show you round and discuss options.
We have plenty of jumble sales and Christmas Fairs to look forward to, and Jim Dandy is back with his fabulous New Year’s Eve bash, so plenty to entertain just about everyone. Looking to the New Year, the Hall is planning lots of exciting events for just about every age group, do keep an eye on our website for all our news.
fun filled and fabulous Christmas. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year from all the Trustees, our caretakers Kevin and Marc and of course, me!
Caroline Allan, Hall Administrator
Has Henfield got talent?
The organisers of the Henfield Common Fair hope so. They are searching for local bands, choirs, dancers, comedians, theatre groups and other performers to be part of a fun-filled afternoon and evening of entertainment when the fair makes a long-awaited comeback on Saturday September 13th 2025.
With plans to make the much-loved community event even more special, the organisers want to give local talent the chance to shine. Performers are welcome from Henfield and further afield, professional or amateur, young or old. To put yourself, a friend or loved one forward, or to find out more information, please email entertainment@henfieldcommonfair.org.
The fair organisers are also reaching out to local businesses who would like to support the event through sponsorship. There are a range of opportunities available, including sponsoring the main stage entertainment, the show tent, refreshments, children’s parade and other family-friendly activities, a sheepdog display and, of course, the portaloos. In return, sponsors
will be promoted on the day through banners, flutter flags and tannoy announcements and in the run-up to the event in a printed programme. Individuals or businesses who would like to support the fair should email sponsorship@ henfieldcommonfair.com.
As this will be the first Fair since 2019, sponsorship is even more important to make the event a success. It is hoped the Henfield Common Fair and Show will re-establish itself as a regular fixture in the village calendar, so make sure you’re part of it. Look out for updates in BN5 and on the event’s website henfieldcommonfair.org
Bev Fearis
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New children’s roundabout at the King’s Field
Henfield Parish Council’s Children & Young People’s Committee have had ongoing discussions around how best to make improvements and additions to our local play areas.
Back in September, the first of these improvements was completed and a new roundabout was installed. It’s an inclusive piece of play equipment, so that children with disabilities, wheelchair users, children in prams and able-bodied children can all play on it together. It’s a great way to promote play for all and to ensure we are catering for all abilities in our play areas.
This is an ongoing project with the Children & Young People’s Committee at Henfield Parish Council and we are aware that there is a real shortage of this type of play equipment, not just in Henfield but nationwide. We must start somewhere, and this is just the beginning of our ongoing commitment to make the play areas more accessible. The roundabout was supplied and installed by Proludic Ltd who are a playground equipment specialist. I’m sure you’ll agree they have done a fantastic job and we’re pleased to say it is proving very popular with our young people.
Georgina Campsey, Youth Coordinator
Henfield Cubs visit Henfield Museum
In October, Henfield’s two cub packs had separate visits to the wonderful Henfield Museum and were engrossed in learning about its key role of preserving and educating visitors about the long history of Henfield.
All the cubs had a great time looking and learning about the vast variety of exhibits including clocks, an original Henfield ambulance stretcher, military uniforms and models and exhibits from the former Henfield Railway Station.
A massive thank you to museum volunteers for giving up their time to run the tours and connecting our cubs to their village’s history. The Henfield Museum is a marvellous asset for Henfield and well worth a visit!
Mark Williams
Henfield Hall Interactive Solar Generation Display
Designed to illustrate how the Hall’s complete solar panel generation system integrates with the building’s power requirements, the Henfield Hall has installed a small interactive display unit in the foyer.
An obsolete IPad has been recycled to display a constantly updated pictorial representation of the panels, back-up batteries, the building and the power supply grid. The unit has been built from scrap, at no cost.
Coloured arrows show the flow of electricity amongst all the components and the changing situation as the system constantly “hunts” to minimise bought-in electricity and maximise battery storage if there is more generated power than the building requires.
The display is within a pedestal unit at a convenient height to suit most abilities. Scroll through the multiple screens to show information on various days, even right back to when our solar panels were first commissioned in May 2022 if desired.
Simple instructions are integral to the unit, with acknowledgements for the organisations that have contributed towards our solar installation, so, if you’ve ever wondered how the system works, pop into the Hall sometime and try it out, if the sun is shining, so much the better!
John
Sharp, Henfield Hall Trustee
Wanted By Collector
Chanctonbury Ring Morris Dancers are no longer a ‘men only’ group
The National Morris Ring used to be for menonly Morris dancers, but in line with many other organisations, is now opening its member ‘sides’ to include women Morris dancers.
In line with that decision, your local Chanctonbury Ring Morris is now pleased to announce that it’s welcoming all adult dancers, and is dropping ‘men’ from its name.
Practice nights started again in Henfield in October (through to May next year) so there is still time for new joiners to learn a dance or two before the summer dance-out season.
Come and join us! See www.crmm.org.uk for details or to contact us.
Clive Funnell, Chanctonbury Ring Morris Dancers
Doctor Who’s TARDIS has landed at Henfield Museum!
Drop by for a rare chance to see a private collection of classic-era 1960s-80s ‘Who’, featuring an impressive assortment of toys and memorabilia relating to the famous television series. The exhibition will be running until Christmas.
Included amongst the items on show are a 1965 Dalek Oracle game, a Chad Valley projector set, trading cards, puzzles, figurines and original
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signed studio production papers. Prepare to don your scarf, have a jelly baby, fend off a miniature Dalek - and enter the colourful world of the Doctor (and if you discover how to make the museum bigger on the inside than out, let us know!).
Robert Gordon, Henfield
Museum
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Henfield Funeral Services
Memorial Christmas Tree
From Monday 2nd December we will be displaying our annual memorial Christmas tree in our office for families who have lost someone dear to them. We will be providing some Christmas tree tags for you to write a private message to your loved one, which you can then place on our beautiful tree. These messages will be on our Christmas tree throughout December. If anyone is unable to visit and select a tag, we will be very happy to post out to you, and place the tag on your behalf.
Karen Jordan, Henfield
Funeral Services
Latest news from the Shedders
It was fantastic to see how many Henfield residents supported the Henfield Shed after they lost their home recently, with creative ideas for premises, messages of support and positive comments on their recent planning application. Their short-term future is secured, as some very generous residents have found a temporary home for this very important charity just outside the village. These kind people, alongside other supporters who have made this move possible, do not ask for thanks, but you know who you are, and you will know how much your kindness means to those who benefit from the great work
Wild Daisies
of the Shed.
We’re pleased to report that the charity continues to thrive despite a very tough year, and we’ve heard that their saws, hammers and work benches are fully occupied, as are their tea-mugs! The trustees of the Henfield Shed reluctantly made the decision to withdraw their planning application to renovate the Tanyard building as a permanent workshop. We are incredibly disappointed that their hard work, expense and enthusiasm has been to no avail, and we hope that you will continue to show your support as they search for a permanent home. Please email me if you can help and we’ll pass any messages on, emma@bn5magazine.co.uk
Editor
Trenchmore Christmas Market cancelled
Due to unforeseen operational challenges, at Trenchmore Farm we have regrettably had to cancel our Christmas market on 7th December, but we’re pleased to say that the yard shop and cider tap will still be open, and 3Bros will still be serving burgers from 11am until 4pm.
Please look out for our spring market in a few months’ time, you can find details of all upcoming events at www.trenchmore.co.uk.
Rachel Knowles, Trenchmore Farm
The fun will start at 10AM to 12PM at Henfield Youth Centre, Deer Park, BN5 9JQ
Visit our website https://henfieldnursery.co.uk/
Crafting excellence
CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH US AT
01273 492509
UPPER STATION ROAD
HENFIELD BN5 9PJ
OUR UPCOMING EVENTS
Monday 2nd
December
Tracing the Rails
Please see page 35 for further information.
Saturday 7th
December at 2pm Wreath making
Limited spaces left, please contact Lorraine to book.
We are pleased to say we are also hosting the BP Guild Christmas dinner, which has been a success for the last two years.
Our back room has been redecorated and is available for private functions.
Basket food is available 3-8pm Monday to Thursday and 12-7pm Friday to Sunday.
OUR CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS
Monday 23rd: 3-11pm | Christmas Eve: 12pm -11am
Christmas Day: 11am - 2pm | Boxing Day: 12pm - 11pm
Friday 27th: 12pm - 11pm | Saturday 28th: 12pm - 11pm
Sunday 29th: 12pm - 10.30pm | Monday 30th: 3pm - 11pm
New Years Eve: 12pm until late | New Years Day: 12pm -11pm Thursday 2nd: 3pm -11pm | Friday, Saturday and Sunday as above
Christmas Services 2024
ST. PETER’S CHURCH, HENFIELD
SUNDAY 22 DEC
5.30pm Carol Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies
CHRISTMAS EVE, TUESDAY 24 DEC
4pm Crib service with children invited to dress as Angels, Shepherds or Kings
11.30pm Midnight Mass
CHRISTMAS DAY, WEDNESDAY 25 DEC
8.30am Holy Communion Service (BCP)
9.45am Family Communion Service for Christmas Morning
ST. GILES’ CHURCH, SHERMANBURY
SUNDAY 15 DEC
11.15am Carol Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies
CHRISTMAS DAY, WEDNESDAY 25 DEC
9.45am Holy Communion Service (BCP)
ST. PETER’S CHURCH, WOODMANCOTE
SUNDAY 22 DEC
11.15am Carol Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies
CHRISTMAS EVE, TUESDAY 24 DEC
6pm Service of Carols and Readings for Christmas Eve
CORPUS CHRISTI ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, THE TANYARD, HENFIELD
MONDAY 9 DEC
7pm Advent Penitential service
CHRISTMAS EVE, TUESDAY 24 DEC
7.30pm 1st Mass of Christmas
CHRISTMAS DAY, WEDNESDAY 25 DEC 10am Christmas Day Mass
SUNDAY 29 DEC
10am Feast of the Holy Family Mass
NEW YEAR’S DAY, WEDNESDAY 1 JAN 11am New Year’s day Mass
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH, HIGH STREET, HENFIELD
SUNDAY 8 DEC
10:30am Christmas Tree Service
SUNDAY 22 DEC
6:30pm Carols by Candlelight
CHRISTMAS DAY, WEDNESDAY 25 DEC
9:30am Christmas Day Service
Step through the wardrobe into Narnia at Nymans this Christmas. Explore enchanting scenes from this classic story on a magical, festive journey through our decorated house.
A trail in the garden takes families on a voyage to Narnia, from the White Witch’s kingdom to the Beavers’ cottage.
Normal admission applies
nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans Narnia.com
CHRISTMAS IS UPON US
Prepare to celebrate Christmas in a stylish way with our incredible deals and offers! Whether you’re organizing an office party or a family and friends gathering, we have something that will suit everyone’s needs. Make this holiday season unforgettable with our exclusive Christmas packages.
Still taking bookings for private events. Call us for further information or to make a booking.
On both of these occasions we will be serving mulled cider, Christmas toasties, beer and wine.
Open seven days a week except 25th, 26th, 27th December & New Year’s Day Next to The Post office, High Street, Henfield cafe@posthousecafe.co.uk
Christmas at The Fox in Small Dole
Available from Tuesday 3rd until Saturday 28th December inclusive TWO COURSES £23.95 • THREE COURSES £28.95 • We are closed on Christmas Day and only open for lunch on Boxing Day.
Please phone Lyn on 01273 491196 or email foxsmalldole@gmail.com to book your table. Please remember to provide a contact phone number
RESTAURANT: Mon - Closed • Tue to Thur 12.00 - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - 8.30pm Fri & Sat 12.00 - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.00pm • Sun 12.00 - 4.00pm
BAR: Mon - 6.00pm - 10.00pm Tue to Sat 12.00 - 3.00pm & 5.30pm - 10.00pm Sun 12.00 - 8.00pm The Fox, Henfield Road, Small Dole Henfield, BN5 9XE | 01273 491196 www.foxsmalldole.com
DON’T MISS THE
Christmas Tree Festival!
FRIDAY 6TH DECEMBER 5.30-8.30pm
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER 10am-12 noon, 5-7pm
SUNDAY 8 DECEMBER 10.30am Christmas Tree Service
The incredibly popular Christmas Tree Festival takes place at the Evangelical Free Church on Henfield High Street again, and they’re inviting you all to come along and vote for your favourite! This is a well-loved event and a cornerstone of the village Christmas celebrations, and local businesses, community groups, families and individuals will be creating sparkling, artistic displays for you to enjoy.
On 8th December we will be having our Christmas Tree Service at 10.30am, please come and join us. This year we will also be having a special children’s competition –create your own tree decoration.
As well as the amazing trees and decorations, there will also be a photo booth, carol singing and a special appearance from the Christmas donkey on Friday night, to coincide with the High Street Christmas Evening. Come along and enjoy this free, fun, and very sparkly event!
NATIVITY SHEEP TRAIL
Sunday 1st December –Tuesday 31st December
Organised by the Henfield Evangelical Free Church, the Bethlehem sheep have found their way into the Henfield shop windows ready to be found by all the local children! During December there will be twenty sheep to locate, all with their own name-tag ready to fill in on the Sheep Trail Entry Form (available from Henfield Library).
This charming trail is free to enter; collect your entry form, then follow the trail around the High Street shops. Return your completed form to the Library by 31 December where you’ll find the shepherd and a sheep. The first correct entry drawn from a hat will receive a small prize. For enquiries please call Jean Whiting 07594 626601.
HENFIELD HIGH STREET
Christmas Shopping Evening 2024
FRIDAY 6TH DECEMBER, 4pm-8pm
Look forward to a traditional Henfield shopping evening on 6th December when local shops open late and there’s entertainment, street stalls, mulled wine and mince pies up and down the High Street!
As a bonus, this year the Henfield Hall will be open, with even more festive stalls to tempt you. Santa and his B-P Guild elves will be outside the Henfield Club on Cagefoot Lane and carol singers will be in fine voice to bring the Christmas spirit to the event.
Street entertainers will be out and about; walking Christmas trees and jugglers on stilts and Christmas baubles will be meeting visitors and entertaining children. Fairground rides and roasted chestnuts, as well as food-stalls and tombolas, some organised by local clubs and groups who will appreciate your support for their fundraising.
Once again, there will be live reindeer in Stokes’ garden, and there are plenty of great gift ideas in all the local shops to kick-off your Christmas shopping! Local cafes will be open selling hot chocolate and delicious festive treats, and the bars will be busy in all our local pubs.
Please make sure you scan the QR code in one of the decorated windows up and down the high street for the Christmas Magic Displays Competition – there’s a hamper of goodies donated by Henfield shops as a prize for entrants randomly selected from all voters, plus lots of other prizes in the district-wide competition. If you think one of the windows is a worthy winner, make sure you give them your vote.
Thank you for your support, please come along and shop in the village during Christmas and keep our shops busy all year!
Al Baddar Barber Shop
serving Henfield and the surrounding area for over 25 years
Largest modern salon in the area
Highly experienced staff
Nice, clean and hygienic salon
Friendly atmosphere
Lowest prices in the area
Prices start from £11
Open six days a week
No need to book, just walk in
Al-Baddar has been serving Henfield and the surrounding area for over 25 years. We are introducing a new style to give an even better service to our customers who have been supporting us all these years. Many barbers come and go but we are still here serving you everyday with our constantly improving service. You will be sure to notice all of our improvements when you come for your next visit.
With highly experienced staff and affordable low prices we are the biggest and best salon in the area.
Henfield’s Dry Cleaners is open 6 days a week for business. Ready for your laundry needs; duvets, sheets, blankets, curtains, shirts, trousers and other dry cleanable items.
al-baddar.co.uk Open
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Tottington Manor, with a 6-Course Luxury Sussex Menu, a Live Singer on arrival, and a Live Band to party the night away, all in the heart of the South Downs. 31st December
Foot Care (nail care, corns, calluses)
Foot orthotics/biomechanics
Osteopathy & Cranial Osteopathy
Massage, Facials & Reflexology
Acupuncture. High Street, Henfield
Ear wax microsuction.
We offer safe and comfortable treatments, in a professional, warm, clinical setting.
For all bookings and information: 01273 493662
www.bankhouseclinic.co.uk B
info@bankhouseclinic co uk
Homeopathy.
Life Coaching and NLP
Counselling
Wishing all our customers a happy and healthy festive season.
Gift Vouchers Available
OFFICES AVAILABLE TO RENT
Immaculate offices, studios, workshops, treatment rooms etc available to rent. Set within in a well-established and managed building, in Henfield’s busiest and most diverse Business Park. Various sizes available and all-inclusive for convenience (Wi-Fi, heating, lighting, tea, coffee etc).
n Prices from £325 ex VAT
n All-inclusive rent
n Flexible terms
n Communal kitchen
n Dog friendly
n Local walks
n Onsite food/coffee vans
n Free parking
Flexible term with just one months’ notice required (minimum of 2 month term)
Contact Rachel for further information or to make a viewing appointment on 01273 491375
www.the-inner-space.co.uk
Henfield Business Park, Unit 6 & 7, Shoreham Road, Henfield, BN5 9SL
WIN a hamper of Henfield High Street goodies in the Christmas Magic Displays competition!
Scan the QR code in one of the participating Henfield displays and vote for your favourite sparkling display, all voters could win one of four fabulous prizes, with a unique prize for the Henfield window competition.
There’s no better time to shop local than Christmas, and Henfield High Street will be filled with extra sparkle this year – with a great opportunity for you to win a wonderful prize! Businesses are entering the Horsham District-wide ‘Christmas Magic Displays Competition’, and they’d love you to vote for them – it’s completely free and you could win a fabulous prize! It’s all part of Horsham District Council’s ‘Buy Local Gift Happy’ campaign this year.
The competition will celebrate the beautifully sparkling festive windows and displays which help to make villages like Henfield a magical place to be over the festive period.
WHAT CAN I WIN?
By scanning the QR code in shop windows (or following the link in this article) you can win one of four fabulous prizes:
• A thrilling and immersive escape room experience for up to eight people at Major Mindgames, Horsham
• A wonderful tour, tasting and delicious lunch with a bottle of wine for two at Nutbourne Vineyard, Pulborough
• An enjoyable bagel baking experience day for four with Jacob’s Bagels, Pulborough
• And for Henfield displays only, you can win a Hamper of Henfield goodies, donated by local businesses!
WHY IS THIS GOOD FOR MY LOCAL VILLAGE?
• You’ll be supporting your local High Street and each shop will get some great district-wide promotion, helping to keep our local economy busy at this important time
• The winning business will receive a great prize from Horsham District Council
WHEN WILL VOTING TAKE PLACE?
Voting takes place from Monday 2 December to Sunday 15 December, with the winners announced w/c 16 December.
At the time of going to print, participating businesses are: All Things Covered | Bank House Clinic | Christina’s Tea Room & Gift Shop | Cornerweighs Healthfood Shop | Goodness Henfield | Henfield Eyecare | Henfield Flooring | HJ Burt Estate Agents | Jasmine’s Florist | Marcus Grimes Estate Agents | My Dentist | Pinks Hair | Relish Café & Bistro | St Barnabas | Steven’s Estate Agents | Stokes Newsagents | Post House Café
But please enjoy ALL the glittering Henfield windows!
SCAN ME
Celebrate the festive windows, market stalls and internal displays which help to make Horsham District towns and villages a magical place
A thrilling and immersive escape room experience for up to eight people at Major Mindgames, Horsham
A wonderful tour, tasting and delicious lunch with a bottle of wine for two at Nutbourne Vineyard, Pulborough
An enjoyable bagel baking experience day for four with Jacob’s Bagels, Pulborough
And for Henfield displays only, you can win a Hamper of Henfield goodies, donated by local businesses!
Have your say from Monday 2 December to Sunday 15 December at: www.horsham.gov.uk/buylocal
and
‘Tracing the Rails’ – a journey through local railway history
Tracing the Rails, a non-profit, community-based documentary series, explores the rich history of the Steyning Line, a disused railway that once connected Shoreham-by-Sea to Horsham. Directed by local filmmaker Chris Kirk and produced by Lou Kirk-Partridge, the series takes viewers on a nostalgic journey, uncovering remnants of the line and sharing untold stories from the past.
Since its launch, episodes one and two have garnered thousands of views on YouTube, with an overwhelmingly positive response from the community. “We’ve been blown away by the support and enthusiasm,” says Chris. “People have shared photos, memories, and memorabilia that have enriched the documentary, helping us tell the story of this lost railway, which means so much to us and to so many people.”
The series blends stunning drone footage, historic images, and on-site visits to key locations, with presenter Stephen Cranford guiding viewers along the railway’s route. Transport historian Mike Jaimes adds context, exploring the operational history of the line during its heyday, bringing new insights to light with every episode.
Episode three is set to be released, and episode one is shown on Rewind TV, both at Christmas,
meaning the series will soon be reaching a national audience. However, Chris and Lou remain committed to the project’s local roots. “We’re a community-driven project, and it’s been a joy to work with so many people from the area,” Lou adds. “It truly feels like a collaborative effort.” For more information, visit www.tracingtherails.com
Chris Kirk
CALLING ALL RAILWAY ENTHUSIASTS!
Tracing the Rails is coming to Henfield for a special live-filming event on Monday, 2nd December at the Old Railway Pub, Station Road.
This is your chance to share your personal memories of the Steyning Line. Bring any railway memorabilia you have to do with The Steyning Line between Steyning and Partridge Green; photos, tickets, timetables, or other artefacts; and enjoy a fun, nostalgic day. Interviews will be filmed for an upcoming episode, so please bring your first-hand stories, and let’s celebrate the rich history of our local railway together. Think Antiques Roadshow, but instead of antiques, it’s the local railway! No booking necessary, just turn up, buy yourself a drink and be ready to share. Who knows, you may even end up on TV!
Poynings, Henfield
EPC E | Council Tax C
£1,850pcm
Gorgeous FULLY FURNISHED period cottage with private parking in rural location.
Cagefoot Lane, Henfield
EPC C | Council Tax E
£2,400pcm
Beautiful 3 bedroom semi detached property with garage and parking in central location.
Merry Christmas From Jeremy’s Christmas Trees
available from Fri 29th Nov
Horsham grown, cut Nordmann Fir in biodegradable netting
£25
Also Horsham grown potted trees. All our trees are Hand Selected by Jeremy FREE LOCAL DELIVERY AVAILABLE.
Vegetables
Pop in to view our large range of locally grown vegetables.
Kale, cavolo nero, savoy cabbage, cauliflower, hispi cabbage and plenty more...
raised just three miles from Jeremy’s Two They couldn’t be more local!
Pre-order your locally reared free range bronze turkeys and goose, as well as gammon joints and bacon. We also have our own recipe, handmade sausage meat and sausages.
Local wine, beer and spirits.
Full range of cheeses, cold meats and deli goods.
All you need for a perfect Christmas!
EMAIL OR PHONE WITH YOUR ORDER FOR COLLECTION
Jeremy’s Christmas opening
22nd Dec Closed
23rd dec 8am - 4pm
24th Dec 8am - 4pm
High street, henfield, BN5 9DA 01273 495799 jeremyjezz@aol.com
Jeremy’s Two Christmas opening
22nd Dec 9.30am - 2pm
23rd dec 8am - 6pm 24th Dec 8am - 3pm Henfield Road, Cowfold, RH13 8DU
GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY IN ANY CONDITION
SCRAP GOLD / GOLD COINS
FOR CASH & SILVER JEWELLERY IN ANY CONDITION
ANTED FOR CASH & SILVER JEWELLERY IN ANY CONDITION
GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY IN ANY COND
SCRAP GOLD | GOLD COINS
SCRAP GOLD | GOLD COINS
GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY IN ANY COND
DIAMONDS & PRECIOUS STONES
SCRAP GOLD | GOLD COINS
DIAMONDS & PRECIOUS STONES
SCRAP GOLD | GOLD COINS
£ COSTUME JEWELLERY
DIAMONDS & PRECIOUS STONES
DIAMONDS & PRECIOUS STONES
£ COSTUME JEWELLERY
£ WRIST & PO CKET WATCHES
£ COSTUME JEWELLERY
£ WRIST & PO CKET WATCHES
£ SILVER £ MEDALS
£ COSTUME JEWELLERY
£ WRIST & PO CKET WATCHES
£ COSTUME JEWELLERY
£ SILVER £ MEDALS
FOUNTAIN PENS
£ FOUNTAIN PENS
£ WRIST & PO CKET WATCHES
£ SILVER £ MEDALS
£ WRIST & PO CKET WATCHES
£ FOUNTAIN PENS
£ ORIENTAL BRONZES & PORCEL AIN
£ SILVER £ MEDALS
COINS & MEDALS
£ FOUNTAIN PENS
£ SILVER £ MEDALS
£ FOUNTAIN PENS
ORIENTAL BRONZES & PORCEL AIN
£ ENAMELLED ITEMS
£ ENAMELLED ITEMS
£ FOUNTAIN PENS
£ WALKING STICKS
ORIENTAL BRONZES & PORCEL AIN
£ WALKING STICKS
£ ENAMELLED ITEMS
£ ORIENTAL BRONZES & PORCEL AIN
£ ENAMELLED ITEMS
£ PORCEL AIN £ COINS
£ PORCEL AIN £ COINS
£ WALKING STICKS
£ WALKING STICKS
£ ENAMELLED ITEMS
£ PORCEL AIN £ COINS
£ ORIENTAL BRONZES & PORCEL AIN
£ PORCEL AIN £ COINS
£ WALKING STICKS
£ PORCEL AIN £ COINS
THING OLD, LOVELY & INTERESTING!
THING OLD, LOVELY & INTERESTING!
ANY THING OLD, LOVELY & INTERESTI
ANY THING OLD, LOVELY & INTERESTI
ANY THING OLD, LOVELY & INTERESTI
Festive Artisan Market
After the success of last year’s inaugural Festive Artisan Market, we’re pleased to announce that it’s back again this December, with even more delicious treats and gift sparkles!
Put Sunday 8 December in your diaries and come along to the Cooper’s Way car park (behind Sainsbury’s) between 10am-2pm and don’t forget your shopping bags, you’ll return with some completely unique gifts, some delicious seasonal food and a great feeling that you’ve supported some truly local makers and producers.
This year, stallholders have been challenged to produce the ‘best dressed stall’, a competition sponsored by Horsham District Council as part of their Shop Happy Buy Local campaign, voted by Festive Market visitors, with a prize for a voter too, drawn at random on the day.
To get you in the mince-pie and mulled wine spirit, there will be entertainment from the Riverboat Shuffle Jazz Band and 10-12, then local singer Ashtyn Rowarth takes over 12-2pm with a mix of festive songs as well as modern songs too! Ashtyn is an incredible young talent so please come along and show your support. There are too many stalls to mention, but you’ll find a huge range on offer including Dillions Vineyard
with mulled wine, Sussex sparkling from Poynings Vineyard, handcrafted candles and melts from Coastal Yard, relishes, preserves and chutneys for your Christmas table from Quirky Mixologist, silver and gemstone jewellery from Alison Crowe, Libbees Coffee selling hot drinks and snacks, Goldstone Rum selling the most incredible seasonally infused rums made in Henfield, Twisted Designs with their hand-crafted wood gifts, It’s Our Planet Too which sell award winning eco-boxes for children, Lozza’s Bakes for delicious cakes and sugary treats, and delicious artisan chocolates fit for a festive table from Noble and Stace. This is just a small taster, so come along and fill your Christmas stockings with local delights!
A LITTLE REQUEST:
The Festive Artisan Market is an independent, not-for-profit enterprise run by skilled Henfield volunteers who believe in the benefits of low-food miles Sussex produce, supporting local makers and the local economy as well as the environmental and health advantages of shopping small and local. It’s a growing enterprise and one which needs your support. Go to www.henfieldartisanmarket.co.uk to find out more, if you’re a start-up, local producer or maker, please get in touch – they’d love to hear from you.
Emma Cole
The Henfield Haven will celebrate their 10th birthday in 2025. That’s 10 years since the tired and underutilised Henfield Daycare Centre was taken over by the local community and, after a huge renovation project supported by local businesses and organisations, reopened as the happy, light and airy high-needs dementia support centre it is now.
The story of this incredible transformation is for another day, and we’ll be launching the 2025 celebrations ‘proper’ in our January edition of BN5 and other local press. For now, we wanted to tell you of the extraordinary ‘thank you’ gift the Haven is about to receive from Henfield residents Anne and Rohan Dewdney.
The Dewdneys will be well known to many of you; Rohan a local accountant and businessman, skilled footballer, Henfield born and bred and a friend to many. He and his wife Anne raised their family here, Anne always a big part of the village, she was a founding HART responder, and you may know her from Marcus Grimes Estate Agents in the High Street. Rohan’s shock diagnosis of FTD (Frontotemporal Dementia) ten years ago, at the age of just 56, changed both their lives immeasurably.
Their 10-year journey with dementia has been inextricably linked to that of the Henfield Haven. Rohan was supported from the start, as was Anne, and as Rohan’s dementia has progressed the Haven team have been there for him every step of the way. Rohan greatly enjoys his highneeds sessions, which allow Anne to work with the confidence to know he’s safe and happy. Most importantly, it has helped her to maintain some balance in their relationship, some time for herself, and to be a wife as well as carer.
To give back to the Haven, Anne has come up with a rather fabulous plan. Alongside a team of supporters and with expert training and guidance from personal trainer Katie Novis, she will be embarking on 10 unique challenges, one a month, in the run-up to the Henfield Haven’s grand birthday celebrations in November.
Challenge Annie will see her pushing the limits each month, with some challenges of the arduous variety, some will push the limits of her courage, and some will be rooted in the local community, involving the clubs and groups who are our greatest supporters. Each event will raise awareness of dementia, because it can affect every one of us and the ones we love. It will also help to future-proof the Haven raising muchneeded funds in its 10th year.
There will be something for everyone – and, in the Haven spirit of teamwork, we know we can’t do it without you.
Emma Cole
HOW YOU CAN HELP...
If you can help by sponsoring an event, packages start at £500 (depending on business size), please contact Digby Stephenson on challengeannie@henfieldhaven.org
Our thanks to the generous businesses who have already pledged their support.
If you’d like to join in one of the challenges then please watch this space and follow our social media channels – more will be revealed very soon!
WE’D LOVE YOU TO GET INVOLVED! Could you run a half-marathon? Take a daily dip in the sea during May? Join in a Hyrox fitness challenge at Henfield Leisure Centre? Or maybe you’re a local business who would like to see your name emblazoned on a t-shirt as Annie takes a wing-walk, climbs Snowdon or abseils down the i360 Tower!
Appointments available
Monday - Friday.
Michelle Brennan Caitlin McCaffery Tom Fletcher Chiropractor Chiropractor Chiropractor 01273 494680 1, Bowden House, Church Street, Henfield
- NHS / private patients
- See patients within 24hrs
- Six Month Smiles®
- Facial aesthetics / wrinkle reduction
- Free Cosmetic consultation
- Your safety is our priority
- We follow all NHS Covid-19 protocols
- Family friendly practice
- 24 months interest free treatment
Think of Mallards...
PAIN-FREE DENTISTRY
For over 150 years the syringe has seen little advancement in its technology, the Wand pain-free injections brings the administration of anaesthesia to the 21st century! Using its computer controlled flow rates it ensures that the anaesthesia is delivered below your pain threshold.
With pain-free injections you can relax about visiting your dentist. Here are a few reasons why you might want to have treatment using the wand:
• Pain free treatment
• No risk of long term effects such as paraesthesia
• Virtually no numbness or pain after the treatment
• Able to numb just one tooth
• More comfort for you and the dentist
Melissa Stepney
Diana Joy Norman
6 July 1945 – 16 September 2024
Diana Norman was born in Bromley, the only child of Arthur and Gwen Reid, and spent her childhood in nearby Shortlands. At school she was a keen cricketer, much to her father’s delight, and played to a high standard as a lefthanded batter. In her late teens she was offered a place in the Youth Kent Cricket squad but chose instead to pursue a career in nursing and so went to train in London at Guy’s Hospital. After she had completed her training at Guy’s, she went on to train at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge in midwifery. She loved her work serving as a midwife in the Fenlands north of the city.
Diana met Robin Norman in 1968 whilst working at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital. Their first encounter was when she found Robin in the sister’s office with his feet irreverently up on sister’s desk. She sternly told him off, but the ice was broken and they soon after became a couple. They married in 1970 and their first son James arrived two years later, followed by Emily in 1975 and Will in 1978.
Diana and Robin moved to Henfield in 1974 when Robin became a GP partner at Henfield Medical Centre. Diana was a committed member of the practice team for many years, setting up antenatal clinics and answering the phones to coordinate Robin’s visits. She later worked as a practice nurse at Partridge Green Surgery, and in the A&E department at the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath. She retired from nursing in the late 1990s to concentrate on her other passions, drama and antiques, and to look after her mum, Gwen, who had moved to the village to be near her.
Soon after settling in Henfield she joined the Henfield Players and the Henfield Choral Society, remaining energetically involved in local theatre for almost 50 years, something which gave her enormous pleasure and led to many long-lasting friendships. She starred as Nelly Forbush in South Pacific! and Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, among many other roles. She also directed several plays and musicals in the village, with Dancing at Lughnasa, The Seagull, and The Sound of Music her proudest and most memorable. When her daughter, Emily, chose acting as a profession, Diana saw how hard it was for young actors to earn a living. She set up Classic Reaction in 1997, a charity to help drama students make the difficult transition from drama school to the professional stage. She produced several plays up and down the country, including her own authored play, Mina Laury, which premiered at the Brighton Festival in 2000. The play reflected two of her great interests: the Bronte siblings and the heritage of Yorkshire, from which her mother’s family hailed. Classic Reaction supported numerous up-andcoming actors in their careers.
Diana always had a deep interest in antiques and period costume. For many years she ran an antiques business in Brighton, and later in Lewes. She was particularly proud when some of her costumes appeared on stage and screen, including iconic projects like Kenneth Branagh’s Murder on the Orient Express and Downton Abbey. Another project that Diana committed great energy to in the later part of her life was the ramshackle house that she and Robin bought and renovated in France, with many trials but also satisfaction. The house at Meuil ended up a delightful holiday spot for her extended family for many years, the site of a great number of happy memories.
Diana served as chair of the Henfield Bowls Club for several seasons. Although keenly competitive, she loved the social element of the club and cherished the camaraderie it provided. She continued her love of cricket throughout her life, one she shared with the rest of her family. This led to an extraordinary family trip in 2006 to see Freddie Flintoff’s England defeat India at home in Mumbai. This was one of several Indian trips she enjoyed, full of adventures and new friendships. She sadly died on 16th September 2024. She leaves her husband, three children, and five grandchildren. A very popular and beloved member of the Henfield scene, her friends and family will remember her for her warmth, courage, and ability to draw out the best from all who knew her. She will be sorely missed.
Will Norman
Hear to Listen
Nicki Dowd, Registered Counsellor in Henfield
It has been a long time since I last wrote something for the BN5 so I thought I would take this opportunity to share some information about some research I am undertaking.
I have mentioned in a previous editorial that we learn our ability to negotiate, compromise and tolerate during our developmental years. The way we go about resolving conflict with our siblings establishes the building blocks for how we will interact with others as adults.
As a psychotherapist I believe that we are all impacted by our childhood and, our experiences in our early years are reflected in the adult person we become.
Our siblings form a large part of our childhood years and consequently, they help us make sense of the world around us, and contribute to our understanding of the way we see others and ourselves. Throughout a lifetime, the connection between siblings is fraught with resentment, love, hatred, envy, longing and competition. The powerful influence this has, is not only as a result of being one another’s playmate, role model, opponents, or partners in crime, but it is also due to indirect influences on other experiences such as the rivalry for family resources, the rank in the family pecking order or holding the role of favourite child. How we handle the intense emotions evoked by these situations and negotiate our
place among our siblings and our families has a considerable influence on the way we establish ourselves in the world as adults. This process also has a major influence on personality development and has consequences for our ability and confidence to form relationships with others throughout our lives.
Our levels of wellbeing and skills in positive development, pro-social behaviour, collaborative techniques, compassion and empathy are all linked to the support of siblings during our early years. Once mastered these abilities and expertise can be adopted and applied within other relationships reflecting emotional understanding and social competence. My research is looking in more detail at how much we are influenced by the relationships we have with our siblings.
If you would like to know more or take part in this research, please scan the QR code which will take you to an online questionnaire. All data is collected and stored anonymously. Any participation will be gratefully received, and I will share any of my findings later on in the year.
CHristMas at singing HiLLs 2024 Festive LunCH Menu
Available Monday to Saturday 2nd to 24th December
Two Courses £32.50 per person / Three Courses £39.50 per person
starters
Cream of Parsnip & Thyme Soup (V) Cheese Twist
Chicken Liver Parfait Sage Butter, Crostini
Crayfish & Avocado Cocktail Granary Bread
Spiced Cauliflower, Pomegranate, Cashew Salad (GF) (VE)
Vegan Mint Yoghurt
(Includes Christmas Crackers)
Main Courses
Traditional Roast Turkey Cranberry & Chestnut Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Roast Potatoes Red Wine Jus
Marmalade Glazed Duck Breast Roast Potatoes
Black Cherry & Kirsch Jus
Oven Roasted Red Snapper (GF)
Herb Crushed New Potatoes, Pea Puree, Red Pepper Coulis
Mushroom Brie & Cranberry Wellington (V) Vegan Roast Potatoes, Vegan Pigs in Blankets, Chive Beurre Blanc
All main courses above served with a panache of seasonal vegetables
*Menu allergens available on request
Desserts
Christmas Pudding (V) Brandy Sauce
Biscoff Cheesecake Espresso Ice Cream
Profiteroles filled with Chantilly Cream (V)
Chocolate & Hazelnut Sauce
Festive Spiced Fruit Salad (VE) (GF)
English Sparking Wine Sorbet
Followed by Coffee & Mints
Festive Carvery LunCH
Two Courses from £30.00 per person (Main Course & Dessert) / Three Courses £39.00 per person Served on Sundays - 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd December
Private Hire CHristMas Party nigHts
£47.00 per person (minimum 50 people required) Three Course Festive Menu, Christmas Crackers & Disco until 12:30am
Boxing Day BrunCH
Various brunch options available from £7.50, served from 09:30 to 2.00pm
(Full menu details on our website www.singinghills.co.uk)
ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED
For all enquiries please contact our Events Department 01273 835353 Option 2, or email dawn@singinghills.co.uk
Singing Hills Golf Centre, Muddleswood Road, Albourne, West Sussex BN6 9EB
CONTACT US
01273 492 629
hello@henfieldhomechecks.co.uk
We cover Henfield, Wineham, Twineham, Bolney, Steyning, Shoreham-by-sea, Hassocks, Hurstpierpoint, Cowfold, Partridge Green, Ashurst, Upper Beeding & Bramber and all surrounding villages.
Merry Christmas Everyone!
Henfield Home Checks would like to say a HUGE thank you to all our wonderful clients, supporters and team members!
We have had another fantastic year with lots of new customers & team members joining us. We have loved every moment of keeping them safe, healthy and happy whilst they continue to enjoy life in their own home.
We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
“May the Christmas season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter!”
Services we offer:
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Meal Visits
• Companionship Visits to home or out and about
• Medication prompts for time specific medication
• Admin Support - blue badge, attendance allowance etc - we can help with ANY admin required
• Daytime respite visits from 4 – 8 hours
• Hoarding & Decluttering Service
• House Packing Service
• Light housekeeping
• Live in carer respite
• Concierge & medical appointments
• Holiday cover
• Daily, weekly, monthly or ad hoc cover available
A Traditional Henfield BP Guild Christmas!
It seems the elves at the B-P Guild are on Santa’s ‘nice’ list again this year, because we’re pleased to report that they’ve received their annual missive from the man himself (delivered by Rudolph, who made a terrible mess in the Guide Hut Car Park, but that’s another story) asking them to assist him on his sleigh rounds. We’re thrilled to say they have graciously accepted, and the Sleigh Rounds and Christmas Morning Deliveries are back again!
Please see below for a list of Father Christmas’s whereabouts during December. The rounds commence at approximately 7pm and you should be able to hear them coming with Christmas carols playing.
If you can donate, there will be plenty of Elves carrying collection buckets, and every penny goes to Guild good causes throughout the year, including the Senior Citizen’s jolly in September. He’ll also be making an appearance at the Village Square (outside Hawthorn Vets) and at Swains Farm Shop during the day on various dates.
Monday 2nd – Silver Birches, Hoewood, Tottington Drive, Wood Lane, Downs View, Orchard Close Sands Lane, Shoreham Road and New Hall Lane in Small Dole (6.45pm start)
Tuesday 3rd – West End Lane, Beverley Road, Borrer Drive, Newman Walk, Banfield Gardens, Fletcher Way, Upper Station Road, Church Lane, Church Street, Pinchnose Green area (6.45pm start).
4th – Hollands Road, Staples Barn Lane, Staples Barn, Gresham Place, Northcroft, Kings Field, Flower Farm, Close, Fabians Way, Broomfield Road, Greenways, Knowles Close, Batts Drive, Broomfield Gardens, The Hooks, Squire Way, Croft Lane (6.45pm start)
Friday 6th – Henfield High Street Christmas Evening (Cagefoot Lane)
Monday 9th – Station Road, Beechings, Lower Station Road, Lower Faircox, Dropping Holmes, Chanctonbury View, Windmill Lane, Nep Town Road, Nep Close, Weavers Lane, South View Terrace, King James Lane, Blackgate Lane, Hewitts
Tuesday 10th – Martyns Close, The Laurels, Chestnut Way, Parsonage Road, Farm Close, Chantry Close, Nyes Close, Benson Road, Furners Lane, Furners Mead, Daisycroft
Wednesday 11th – Wantley Hill Estate, Maidment Court, Foxfield Cottages, Chess Brook Green, Charlwood Drive, Fillery Way, Kingsley Square, Wisden Walk, Manor Way, Manor Close, Barn End
Thursday 12th – Cagefoot Lane, Common Road North, Mill Drive, Cedar Way, London Road
Friday 13th – Deer Park, Badger Copse, St Peters View, North Mead, Hudson Way, Meadow Drive, Fawn Rise, Jubilee Close, Mallard Way Stag Close
Wednesday
BP Guild Christmas Day deliveries
The Elves in the BP Guild will also be helping Father Christmas deliver presents to your little ones on Christmas Day morning again this year!
If you would like Father Christmas to deliver a present to a child in the village on Christmas morning on your behalf, please take your presents to the Chief Elf Graham Denyer, at 5 Knowles Close, Henfield on the following dates (between the hours of 4pm and 7pm): Wednesday 18th December; Thursday 19th December and Friday 20th December.
Please ensure that all presents are clearly marked with the child’s name and address. There is limited space on the sleigh, so please no large presents. The cost for this service is £5 per present and Graham can be contacted on 01273 492402.
Christmas Tree Recycling Service
As usual, the B-P Guild will be offering their Christmas Tree Recycling Service to people in the Henfield area, which raises money for the Scout Hut Community Centre Building Appeal.
If you would like us to dispose of your Christmas Tree in an easy and environmentally friendly way (trees are chipped and composted) for £10 per tree, please contact Dave Malkin on 07929 840321 or Neil Featherstone.n@btinternet.com.
Collections take place on Saturday 4 January 2025, please call to book your collection before 7pm on Wednesday 1st January, no bookings will be accepted after that date.
Christmas Jumble Sale & Auction
Do you need a clear-out before Christmas, or to purchase some pre-loved gifts?
Grab a bargain at our ever-popular Jumble Sale and Auction, which will be held in the Henfield Hall on the Saturday 7th December at 2pm.
All donations of good quality jumble will be gladly received on the morning of the Sale at the Henfield Hall.
The Henfield BP Guild would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that has helped support us and our activities over the past year. Please remember that ALL the money we raise with the kind support of the village throughout the year is spent on good causes in and around our great village. We would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
I want easy and accessible parking. We have ample parking and both our practices have private car parks. I want to go to a practice that is well equipped to provide a high level of care. We have all the latest equipment from key-hole surgery to heated dog and cat kennels. Our experienced vets are able to perform the majority of procedures at our practice without the need for you to go elsewhere.
I want to go to a practice which I can trust and where both my pet and I feel comfortable. We’re an independent practice and pride ourselves on offering a personal and welcoming service. We strive to develop a long-term, positive relationship with all our clients. I want to see the same vet and have confidence in their care. All our veterinary surgeons are compassionate and experienced –there’s very little we haven’t seen before. Continuity of care is highly important and we make sure that your pet gets to see the vet that they prefer wherever possible!
NEWS! WORK HAS STARTED ON OUR PADEL TENNIS COURTS
Henfield Leisure Centre is pleased to announce that work has started on our two outdoor Padel Tennis courts. The courts will be covered and floodlit so they can be used all year round.
This is an amazing facility for the village and the first in the district.
The courts will be open in the New Year, we will be offering free taster sessions, please scan the code below to register your interest or pop into the leisure centre.
For further information please contact us on 01273 494984 or email henfieldleisure@gmail.com
Sumptuous curtains and interiors
Custom made curtains, roman blinds and soft furnishings
Cushions, headboards, bedspreads and upholstery
Roller, vertical and venetian blinds, curtain poles and tracks
Complete service for design, advice, quotation, and fitting, in the comfort of your own home East Barn Interiors Ltd 01403 865655 By appt: 6 Swallows Gate, Church Road, Mannings Heath, West Sussex RH13 6GQ www.eastbarninteriors.co.uk
“Tom has completely blown me away! His work, reasonable prices and fun, friendly attitude have made it a pleasure to get our decorating work done!”
Lucy - Upper Beedling
HENFIELD REMEMBERS
The weather was clear and bright for Henfield’s annual Remembrance commemorations on Sunday 10 November.
Brighton City Brass led the parade of local organisations, including ex-service personnel, Scouting and Guiding groups, local organisations and the Clergy. They mustered at the War Memorial in Cagefoot Lane and marched to St Peter’s Church for the annual Service of Remembrance.
After the service the Parade returned to the War Memorial where they were joined by residents who lined the High Street and waited respectfully at the War Memorial. The short service of remembrance included an impeccably observed two-minute silence, the Last Post and Reveille and a hymn, as well as poppy wreaths being laid on behalf of many local organisations.
In addition to our Councils, Emergency Services and Clubs and Groups, Scouting & Guiding organisations, St Peter’s School, Henfield Youth Club and Football Club were in attendance.
This remembrance was the last time Mike Morgan performed the role of Parade Marshal, a duty which he’s accomplished with great calmness, professionalism and accuracy for the past fourteen years. On behalf of the village we extend our thanks to Mike for his dedication.
Thank you to Henfield Parish Council and Henfield Churches for the organisation of this touching village Remembrance event and to the Henfield Club for their warm hospitality.
Editor
•
Family run business in Henfield for 40 years
l Competitive prices
l Fast service
l Supplies for Cats, Dogs, Small Animals, Farm Animals, Horses, Reptiles, Birds & Fish
l Large range of Wild Bird Foods
Telephone orders for collection welcome or local deliveries
Mon-Fri 9am – 5.30pm, Sat 9am – 5pm
COOPERS WAY, HENFIELD 01273 495937
Henfield Homes Ltd
property maintenance and refurbishm
painting and decorating kitchens and bathrooms
painting and decorating kitchens and bath floor and wall tiling fencing and decking garage and loft conversions you and your home treated with respect
extensions
floor and wall tiling extensions and loft conversions
Tel 01273 491822 Mobile 07775 671167 www.henfieldhomes.co.uk
Autumn Budget Report
Rachel Reeves’ historic first Budget was very clearly delivered, with the speech designed to tread a difficult line between short term revenue raising and spending cuts, and on the other hand, longer-term growth and investment. Overshadowing this balancing act were the manifesto tax promises that gave the government limited room to move. Here are some of the highlights.
Employer NIC increase
Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will rise from 13.8% to 15%, alongside a reduced NIC threshold from £9,100 to £5,000 annually, effective April 2025. To support small businesses, the Employment Allowance will increase from £5,000 to £10,500, with the removal of the £100,000 NIC bill limit, enabling more employers to qualify.
For an employee earning £35,000, the employer’s NIC charge will increase by £925 annually. While the higher Employment Allowance will ease costs for small employers, it will only minimally offset the NIC increase for those with large payrolls.
Capital gains tax
The main rates of capital gains tax (CGT) have been increased to 18% for basic rate taxpayers and 24% for higher rate taxpayers (from 10% and 20% respectively). They are now aligned with the rates applying to disposals of residential property. The new rates apply to transactions completing on or after 30 October 2024.
Increases to the CGT have been trailed on multiple occasions since Labour came to power in July 2024, but the timing of when any new rates would apply from and their level had been subject to plenty of speculation.
Inheritance tax
As widely expected, several changes were announced to the inheritance tax regime:
From April 2026, agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR) will be restricted. A 100% rate of relief will continue to apply for the first £1 million of combined qualifying agricultural and business assets and, thereafter, relief will be at 50%. The rate of BPR applying to shares designated as not listed on the markets of a recognised stock exchange, such as the AIM market, will also be reduced to 50%.
From April 2027, the value of unused pension pots and death benefits payable from a pension will be brought within the scope of inheritance tax. The current freeze on the inheritance tax thresholds will be extended for a further two years to 5 April 2030. The nil-rate band will remain at £325,000 and the residence nil-rate band will remain at £175,000 and continue to taper away for estates worth more than £2 million.
Stamp Duty Land Tax: increased second property charge
The Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) surcharge for additional properties has been increased from 3% to 5% from 31 October 2024.
The SDLT surcharge applies to second-home buyers and buy-to-let landlords, added to the standard SDLT on residential purchases in England and Northern Ireland. Raising these higher SDLT rates aims to deter second home and buy-to-let purchases, making more housing available for primary and first-time buyers. The government expects this measure to generate 130,000 additional transactions by first-time and primary-residence buyers over the next five years.
Jonathan Aikens, Partner, Moore Kingston Smith LLP
PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE
Assistance
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Discover the personal and professional approach at Moore Kingston Smith LLP
Strategic business and personal tax planning
· Business management
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Contact Jonathan Aikens
Betchworth House, 57-65 Station Road, Redhill, Surrey RH1 1DL
JAikens@mks.co.uk 020 4582 1881 www.mks.co.uk/redhill
Also at Heathrow, Romford, St Albans, City and West End (London)
Free Range Bronze Turkeys from farmer Paul Tanner, Hampshire
Ducks | Geese | Boneless Turkey breasts wrapped in Bacon
30 day dry-aged Ribs of Beef | Gammon on the bone | Pigs in Blankets
NORTON MEWS | COOPERS WAY | HENFIELD | BN5 9EQ MON - FRI 8.30am – 5.30pm
SWAINS FARM SHOP | BRIGHTON ROAD | BN5 9RP MON - SAT 8.30am – 6pm SUN 10am - 4pm There will be reduced hours during the Christmas and New Year Period
SALE 15 % OFF ALL TIMBER WINDOWS & DOORS UNTIL THE END OF JANUARY
Improve the comfort and appearance of your home with natural timber windows and doors from sustainable sources. Constructed from engineered timber slow grown in cold climates, their strength, stability and beauty are guaranteed.
With a 15% discount off all timber windows and doors in our Winter Sale, visit our showroom to view our lovely range of products. You’ll receive expert advice and see how beautiful timber windows and doors really can enhance the value and beauty of your home.
Timber Windows of Horsham Unit 1, Blunts Yard, Newbuildings Place, Dragons Green Road, Dragons Green, Horsham, RH13 8GQ
Tel: 01403 732822
