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Editor’s Letter
Welcome to a frosty February BN5, we hope the colourful sunset pictured on our cover (taken by local photographer James Brown) reminds you of why this little corner of Sussex is such a great place to live! James’s photography really captures the beauty of the area, he sent us several shots to choose from and this was our favourite. You can see more of his work on page 25. It’s always good to see another group forming in Henfield, and even more so when their aims are so logical and positive. Access Henfield plans to make the village an easier place to live for everyone. Many of the improvements they’re planning are incredibly simple, and some are free. They’ve got a long (and growing) list of ideas and would welcome your input. Please see more on page 22 and help to make Henfield accessible for everyone.
Challenge Annie got off to a flying start last month, donations are flooding in and Anne is doing incredibly well with her first challenge. February’s HenRox event is another way you can get involved, see page 31 for details.
Please get in touch if you have a contribution for our March issue, copy deadline is early this month, 31st January.
Emma Cole, Editor
Copy deadline & contacts
06 What’s On from the BN5 area
09 News from the BN5 area
22 Local Interest
Access Henfield
25 Local Interest
Endless Horizons Photography
31 Charity Challenge Annie February update
34 Local Interest Dementia Awareness drop-in
36 Local Interest Lancing Chapel
46 Local Interest A tribute to Conway Thorns
54 Local Interest HTC’s Curious Incident
62 Index Of local advertisers
Many thanks to our editorial and photographic contributors this month:
Sara Williams, Lorette Mackie, Mandy Ainsworth and Jonathan Aikens.
Cover photograph of The South Downs from Devil’s Dyke with the kind permission of James Brown, Endless Horizons Photography, 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 March issue of BN5 magazine is Friday 31 January.
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
Tennis Club Jumble Sale
Sat 1 Feb, 2pm, Henfield Hall
Bargains galore, auction, nearly new section and a raffle. Delicious refreshments. Jumble welcomed on the day.
Wurlitzer Organ Concert
Sun 2 Feb, 3-5.30pm, Singing Hills
Featuring composer Andy Quin with his award-winning music featuring in countless movies, TV shows and advertisements. www.sussexwurlitzers.co.uk
Henfield Theatre Co Jumble Sale
Sat 8 Feb, 2pm, Henfield Hall
All the usual stalls will be available – bric-a-brac, good-as-new, toys, books, clothes etc plus their wonderful Auction, full of exciting bargains.
Saving the Stone-Curlew
Fri 7 Feb, 7.30pm, The Henfield Hall
A Henfield Birdwatch talk by Keith Betton: Saving the Stone-Curlew. £3 non-members. Bar open.
HenRox
Sun 2 Feb, 7.30am, Henfield Leisure Centre
Book your space from 7.30am. Supporting Challenge Annie for the Henfield Haven. Details p31. £10 entry 01273 494984 to book.
Seed
Swap 2025
Sat 8 Feb, 10am, The Haven
Bring your saved seeds in clearly marked envelopes and pick up your free seeds in return. If you haven’t got any saved seeds, come anyway and buy them for 50p a packet.
Lancing College Open Events
Fri 7 & Sat 8 February
Prep & Senior school, www.lancingcollege. co.uk for details and venues. A warm welcome to families looking for school places.
Dementia Awareness Drop-in
Mon 10 Feb, 9.30am, The Haven
A drop-in session at Henfield Haven to raise awareness around Dementia, its symptoms and how you can support those affected. See article page 34.
The Art of Uzbekistan
Mon 10 Feb, 2.30pm, Henfield Hall
Join The Arts Society Henfield for this month’s talk, The Art of Uzbekistan: from the Heart of the Silk Road. Presented by Chris Bradley.
Valentine’s Day Dinner
Fri 14 Feb, 7pm, Tottington Manor
Enjoy Valentines Dinner with your loved one at Terra Restaurant at Tottington Manor. £55 per person. Booking essential.
Vintage Haberdashery
Wednesday 19 Feb, 2pm, The Henfield Hall
The Woodmancote and Henfield WI would like to invite people to join them for this month’s speaker, Elizabeth Betts who will lead a talk about vintage haberdashery.
The Importance of Being Oscar
Mon 10 Feb, 10am, Steyning
The Arts Society Steyning invite you to this month’s talk: A Haaand-Baaag? The Importance of Being Oscar (And Earnest).
Valentine’s Day at relish
Friday 14 Feb, relish, High Street Henfield
Join Relish for a Valentines day 3 course meal. See page 19 for further information.
AN EVENING WITH CAROLINE LUCAS
AN EVENING WITH CAROLINE LUCAS
Discussing her book
Discussing her book
ANOTHER ENGLAND
ANOTHER ENGLAND
FRIDAY 21st FEBRUARY 2025
FRIDAY 21st FEBRUARY 2025
7.30pm Steyning Methodist Church
7.30pm Steyning Methodist Church
£6 Ticket only / £12 with book
£6 Ticket only / £12 with book
CALL 01903 812062 or book online www.steyningbookshop.co.uk
CALL 01903 812062 or book online www.steyningbookshop.co.uk
An Evening with Caroline Lucas
Fri 21 Feb, 7.30pm, Steyning Methodist Church
Hosted by Steyning Bookshop, Caroline discusses her book Another England. Tickets £12 with book or £6, go to www.steyningbookshop.co.uk
Fun Quiz
Sat 22 Feb, 7pm, Henfield Hall
Team of 8 adults, for the Henfield Scout Community Centre Building Appeal. £10pp, including a Ploughman’s Supper.
Conclave (12a)
Tues 25 Feb, 7.30pm, Henfield Hall
Cinemobile mobile cinema. Starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci. Tickets Marcus Grimes or www.cinemobile.uk
Award-winning Jasmine’s Florist
Chairman of Horsham District Council, Cllr. Nigel Emery, awarded Amy Navatt from Jasmine’s Florist a certificate for her winning window in the ‘Best Henfield Display’ in their Christmas Magic Displays Competition, voted for by Henfield readers of BN5 magazine. Cllr. Emery was accompanied by Cllr. Joanne Knowles, Cabinet Member for Economic Development.
Congratulations to Amy and the team, the Jasmine’s window was stunning. Competition was fierce up and down the High Street, a huge thank you to all the businesses who participated. Editor
Friends of St Barnabas Christmas Show
The theme of the show, ‘Surprises and Goodwill’, was honoured in spades on December 6th. The surprises were provided by the 70+ performers who gave us a vibrant, fun-filled show.
From our two-year-old shepherds to a 94 yearold who leapt up to dance with the Zumba flash -mob, we were entertained by a wonderful array of talent; the Trefoil and BP Guilds, the ladies of the Christmas Chorus led by Denny Austin, the Henfield Ukelele Group, local singers... even Father Christmas and the Bethlehem Donkey showed up to throw some festive moves!
All this goodwill was matched by our local businesses who generously supported the event by sponsoring our programme and offering wonderful raffle prizes.
Our thanks go to all who contributed to this sparkling event, including our wonderful audience. The fun was endorsed by one of the audience who commented that it was “like one big party”.
And so back to our theme. Whoever started the audience conga line gave us one big Surprise! And as for Goodwill, we raised over £3,200 for our local Hospice, an amazing result!
Lesley Besson
A Fond Farewell
At the end of December we said good-bye and thank you to Barbara after 17 years of helping with Rainbows. Her contribution has been vast and we really appreciate all her volunteer hours. We are currently looking for a volunteer or two to replace her and keep the Rainbow unit open, if you think this could be you, please do get in touch. It’s a fun-filled role and one which is really rewarding, all our volunteers gain a huge amount from their involvement in Guiding.
As with many voluntary organisations we rely on goodwill, and can’t continue our 33 years of giving children of Rainbows age this wonderful
opportunity without help from the village, so if you can, please step forward to help so we can keep providing a fun, safe environment for girls of Henfield.
For more information please register your interest online: www.go.girlguiding.org.uk/join-us/join-asvolunteer/ Natalie Denning
Rescue Ready!
The Sussex Heart Charity is proud to announce the launch of ‘Rescue Ready’, an exciting new project that supplies free AED/CPR awareness sessions to local community groups, residents associations, clubs and societies across the whole of Sussex.
The project is funded by the Sussex Heart Charity and is delivered in partnership with award-winning Pulse South Coast. The sessions are free and are suitable for anyone (of any age) who would like to learn familiarisation with AED devices and CPR skills.
Every second counts in a cardiac emergency and the aim of the project is to empower local communities and share essential lifesaving skills, so that everyone has the confidence and knowledge to be ‘rescue ready’.
Further information on the project can be found on our website, you can also apply for a course by following this link:
Henfield Parish Council have set up a Change. org petition for better signage for Mock Bridge where the river floods, which can be particularly dangerous at night. To sign the petition, go to www.change.org and type in ‘Flood Warning System for Mock Bridge’.
Their petition reads: “Henfield and Shermanbury Parish Councils are calling on West Sussex County Council Head of Local Highway Operations and West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport - Cllr Joy Dennis to install a flood alert system which can be linked to the actual river levels.
“Flooded roads are dangerous. Every winter we face more disruption, vehicles are often stranded needing rescue and there is a fatal accident waiting to happen.
“As you approach the bridge on the A281 there is no indication whether the water is an inch or a foot high. At night the flooding is virtually invisible until you hit the water – literally.
“30 years ago, flooding of the River Adur was unusual, but flooding incidents have increased
year on year. The River Adur now breaks its banks 2, 3 or more times a year, each time with more severity. Climate change and the number of new houses and developments upstream from Mockbridge including the Burgess Hill Northern Arc mean that less water is absorbed by the surrounding land, instead running straight off the concrete and tarmac. The water has nowhere else to go but into the River Adur.
“We are asking for a fast, cost effective option to make the A281 safer now with a real time warning system on the bridge. Followed later by the installation of flood warning signs on the A281 at Wheatsheaf Rd and Partridge Green Rd. A reliable and accurate alerting system would
enable motorists to act and avoid being stranded. If you are a local resident who is affected by the flooding at Mockbridge and would like to see a warning system please sign the petition.”
Editor
Local Environmental Groups Unite to Drive Climate and Nature Action
In a powerful display of grassroots mobilisation, volunteers from village environmental groups and Repair Cafes have joined forces with charity Sussex Green Living to combat the climate crisis through community education and action.
The coalition is focusing on encouraging MPs to support the Climate and Nature Bill and opposing the controversial Rosebank oilfield development off Shetland. Local environmental advocates are urging residents to engage with their MPs ahead of crucial parliamentary decisions regarding climate legislation.
“Our last Government approved Rosebank, the UK’s largest untapped oilfield,” says Carrie, CEO of Sussex Green Living. She notes that while the owners of Rosebank (Equinor) faced legal challenges over the decision in November, continued public pressure on the Government remains essential.
Mark Francis, the charity’s energy champion, emphasises the scientific consensus behind their
Wanted By Collector OLD VICTORIAN BOTTLES, POT LIDS
campaign. “Climate scientists agree that stopping the use of fossil fuels is essential to ending the climate crisis. Fossil fuels are the primary cause of climate change because they release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which trap heat and increase the Earth’s temperature.”
The alliance is working to empower local communities who often feel overwhelmed by the scale of the climate crisis. Their approach combines practical solutions through Repair Cafes, Home Energy Advice, education and other solutions with coordinated advocacy efforts, demonstrating that individual actions can contribute to systemic change.
Paul Bellringer OBE, chair of Sussex Green Living, delivers a stark message about the stakes involved: “No new oil and gas if we want a liveable planet for future generations.” The charity encourages residents to contact their MPs and voice their support for halting the Rosebank development.
The initiative showcases how local environmental groups are increasingly taking the lead in climate action, combining community service with political engagement to push for meaningful environmental protection measures. Through their repair services, educational programmes, and advocacy work, these organisations are demonstrating that grassroots movements can play a crucial role in addressing global environmental challenges.
Write to your MP to ask them to pledge to stop Rosebank here www.actionnetwork.org/letters/ ask-your-mp-to-pledge-to-stop-rosebank Carrie Cort
Volunteer Drivers Urgently Needed
Some of the current Link drivers for the Henfield Medical Centre Transport Link scheme are advancing in years. More younger drivers, male and female, and especially under 75 years of age, are urgently required to service the needs of patients in the Henfield area without other means
LUCAS
TERRYS CROSS HOUSE
Terrys Cross House is a small, friendly, registered care home providing a high standard of care in stunning surroundings. We welcome all applicants. We occasionally also have vacancies in Bramwell Lodge, our flats designed for independent living.
Please Contact Lynn for further information 01273 492821 | terryscross@btconnect.com Woodmancote, Henfield, BN5 9SX www.terryscross.co.uk
of transport for their medical appointments (including dental).
If you have thought of driving for the Link, now is your opportunity. You meet some very interesting people and at the same time provide a valuable and much appreciated service. If you drive a car and have some time to spare, please let us know. It is not a regular commitment - when the coordinator makes contact, you are either able to meet that particular need or not - if the latter, the coordinator will try someone else on the drivers’ list.
If you prefer to take on just local trips, that will help, but taking on some hospital journeys will help even more. With some 450 return patient trips facilitated last year, covering nearly 14,000 miles, and each driver averaging between two and eight trips a month, the need for drivers remains at a high level, especially during these winter months. You give your time but not your money, as your petrol costs are reimbursed through patient donations.
If you are interested in joining our band of volunteer drivers, even if only for an occasional run, please contact either John Donaldson (01273 493050, email john.donaldson24@btinternet.com) or Jackie or Peter Bates (01273 493172, email jandpbates@gmail.com) - they will be delighted to hear from you and will provide further details. Peter Bates
Henfield Scout Community Centre Building Appeal –on the home straight!
Volunteers raised a fantastic £2,000 by recycling Christmas trees at the beginning of January, but the Appeal is still desperate for more funding to push them over the line. It’s great to see the building taking shape and it’s all down to the hard work and determination of the trustees of the Clarks Mead Trust and all the volunteers supporting the Appeal. The next job is the floor which needs insulation and screed laid with the under floor heating pipework. Once that is completed, the team can move on with fitting the internal walls and doors.
Please help the Appeal by supporting the Fun Quiz on 22nd February, with teams of 8 and tickets at just £10 including a delicious Ploughman’s Lunch, it’s set to be a really great night. Contact Dave Malkin on 07929 840321 or email david.malkin@henfield-scout-cc.org.
Editor
Henfield Garden and Arts Festival, 7-8 June 2025
You may not be spending much time in your garden at this chilly time of year, but as the spring bulbs appear it’s a great time to think about the
BANK HOUSE
ELECTRIC GATES
summer ahead, and that includes this year’s Garden and Arts Festival.
The planning for the Festival, which will be held on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 June, is well underway. If you would like to open your garden, or take part as an artist or musician, you can find the application form on the Festival website www. henfieldgardensandarts.net.
Applications can be completed and returned electronically or on paper, and the closing date for expressions of interest is Friday 28 March.
We are always keen to include new gardens and artists so if you would like to find out more about what is involved, please come to our open meeting. This will take place at Red Oaks Care Home, The Hooks, Henfield, at 7pm on Thursday 6 March. There is no need to book so please just turn up, we will be delighted to see you!
Henfield Garden & Arts Organising Committee
Berrett’s Farm wins Dog Friendly Award
Congratulations to Kieran and Emily from Berrett’s Farm who won second in the UK in the Restaurants and Cafés category of the Dog Friendly Awards! The awards recognise venues and businesses who go the extra mile for the benefit of the UK’s 2.5 million dogs and their owners, and the winners are chosen by public vote.
Go to www.dogfriendly.co.uk for a full directory of dog friendly venues, hotels and restaurants.
Editor
A Youth Club Member’s Voice
“I have attended Youth Club now for a couple of years and have enjoyed every moment of it. Lots of my friends go to Youth Club too, and we all have so much fun together when we are there. There is a really good variety of things you can do there, including playing in the hall, playing on the computers and PlayStations, drawing, colouring, playing pool, table tennis and air hockey. The list goes on!
“Sometimes, for special occasions, the staff and volunteers provide us with parties and special guests like reptile companies and magicians. But don’t forget to bring your pennies to buy some delicious treats and snacks from the tuck shop. KitKats are my favourites!
“Another thing I love about Youth Club is that you can hire it out for parties. I’ve had two of my birthday parties there and have been to lots of my friend’s parties there as well. I feel like we are very lucky to have a Youth Club in Henfield and I am very grateful for all the staff who work hard to make sure we always have the best time.”
Mitchell, junior member.
Also to mention; We are thrilled that our teenagers babysitting / first aid course has been chosen by Tesco under their Stronger Starts Scheme starting in mid-January to the end of March. Please vote for us when shopping at Tesco Holmbush and Tesco Express in Upper Shoreham Road BN43 6BE. The more votes, the more funding! Thank you. Lucy Watson
News from the Henfield Hall
I write this article optimistically, thinking that Spring and warmer days are getting closer. January was a busy month at the Hall, and February looks set to continue the trend. We are still busy making improvements and adding to our kitchen equipment and generally enhancing the Hall. Henfield Theatre Company entertained everyone with their performance of Scrooge! We had Keepfitathons, and all our regulars were back enjoying their various activities. We head into February with the ever-popular jumble sales, I do get lots of phone calls and emails asking when they are. If you go onto the Henfield Hall website we have a “live” calendar of events, and you can see at a glance what is coming up and make bookings for your own parties or social events. You can also see all the regular activities such as Keep Fit, Zumba, Bowls
and many others. (Editor note: Please also take a look at www.henfieldbn5.co.uk/events for a full listing of events in the village under various headings, including ‘Pre Loved & Recycled’ for all the Jumble Sales!)
The Hall will be hosting lots of our own events this year, so do keep an eye out, there really will be something for everyone! On that note, I’m always happy to hear from anyone as to what they would like to see at the Hall, and indeed any local Bands or musicians.
A new craft fair will be coming to the Hall this year and we are also hosting some other super events. Maybe you have a special event in 2025? Do pop in or come and look round the venue, we have lots of options and as I continually hear when I tell people the rates… That’s very reasonable! But don’t take my word for it, have a look at the website, under the ‘rates’ tab, it’s easy to use and you can see at a glance just how much your event will cost.
Caroline Allan
New Organisers for the Charities Christmas Fair
A number of ladies from the Henfield group ‘The LADYbirds’, have volunteered to take over the organisation of the Charities Christmas Fair from next year. Residents who have been loyal supporters will be relieved to learn that the Fair is to carry on, and I should like to express my thanks and also the gratitude of the charities who regularly participate, and to The LADYbirds.
I am sure the Fair will continue to enjoy the success under their guidance that it has achieved over the past thirty-plus years.
We’d like to say an enormous ‘thank you’ to Marilyn for all her years organising the Charities Christmas Fair, facilitating the raising of thousands of pounds for local and national charities, as well as organising a truly enjoyable festive shopping event. Your hard work is very much appreciated.
Always Thorough Treatment
Former Sports Therapist so can give exercise advice
Henfield Walking Netball club is one year old!
The idea of having a Walking Netball club in Henfield was originally conceived over a coffee and chat between friends when our local champion Sue Willis mentioned that there were grants available for new groups. No sooner said than done, Sue had organised funding, arranged dates with Henfield Leisure Centre and had contacted the England Netball Association (ENA).
To get us up and running, ENA assigned the Sussex Netball Development Officer to us who
then ran 5 trial sessions, starting on 10th January 2024.
There were about 10 attendees at the first session, all a bit nervous but eager to embrace this new experience. In order for the group to continue after the trial sessions, it required at least one ENA trained host; Jane agreed to join forces with Vanessa and they both attended and passed a course in Oxford.
Walking Netball is basically the same game but we do not run or jump so the games are more manageable whatever your fitness level. We also have 4 seconds to pass the ball. After a warm-up, we have a skills activity to practise aspects of game play and then move onto a full game (with as many breaks as we all need) - it’s great fun!
Now a year on, we have over 18 regular players and enjoy a competitive game each week. We have also taken part in a local tournament and are arranging friendly matches with other local clubs.
We all look forward to the coffee and chat afterwards just as much as the game itselfthankfully, Sharky’s cafe at the Leisure Centre serves lovely drinks and cakes! We would like to thank Simon and the team at the Leisure Centre for welcoming our club; they are all so helpful and have generously supplied us with new bibs and whistles.
We are an inclusive club so everyone is welcome, whatever your age, fitness level or disability. We recommend, however, that you talk with your doctor beforehand if you have a medical condition. We are considering starting an earlier class (10am?) for anyone who would like to go even slower - please let us know if you are interested.
Henfield Walking Netball Club meets every Wednesday throughout the year between 11am – 12pm at Henfield Leisure Centre. The cost is £5 per session, payable to the staff in the foyer. Contact Jane and Vanessa at HenfieldWalkingNetball@gmail.com or talk to the staff at Henfield Leisure Centre for more details.
“A
Jane Beasley
Welcome to Shaved by the Bell
At Shaved by the Bell, we believe every pup deserves to look and feel their best! Our professional dog grooming services cater to all breeds and sizes, ensuring a personalised experience for each furry friend.
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Inside The Dog Barber Bridgers Farm, Hurstpierpoint, BN6 9HA
Exterior
Valentine’s night... relish your loved ones with us!
Valentine’s sharing menu £30pp, each course has 3 dishes made to share! Glass of Pinot Grigio, Merlot or Prosecco on arrival
Baked Camembert with garlic, rosemary and onion jam / Our chicken tenders with aoli dip / Garlic bread with mozzarella
Freshly baked pizza of choice / Pumpkin ravioli with butternut squash and lemon rocket pesto / Caesar salad Tiramisu / Apple crumble / Ice cream
We have created a new group dedicated to improving life for people with disabilities in Henfield, so that the village becomes a great place to live, work, and socialise in for all residents and visitors. Now called Access Henfield, we work under the auspices of the Henfield Community Partnership, and we are all volunteers.
Three of us have mobility issues ourselves, others have personal or family experience of the barriers facing people with different disabilities, and others have specialist professional knowledge gained through working in healthcare or health and safety. We are very new and still growing, and would welcome input from others in the community, especially those with varied experiences of disabilities of any type.
Our ambition is to help remove barriers in a positive and encouraging way, to enable people with disabilities (whether visible or hidden) to participate as fully as possible in every aspect of life in Henfield. We hope to encourage awareness, acceptance and consideration for
all disabilities and to be a point of advice, information, support and referral to relevant organisations.
Our initial project has been focussed on mobility and accessibility issues (mobility scooters, wheelchairs and pushchairs) and visual and hearing impairments, and we are in the process of seeking some solutions. For example, we are currently investigating issues such as sufficient disabled parking spaces in the right locations; entry into and manoeuvrability around buildings; provision of disabled toilets; access to local services and shops, and levels of accessibility to participate in community activities.
Some solutions will require specialist input, but we have identified that there’s plenty we can all do to help, such as:
• Keeping pavements and dropped kerbs clear for wheelchairs, buggies etc., by keeping hedges trimmed back away from the pavement (a legal requirement)
• Parking considerately, avoiding parking on dropped kerbs and pavements
• Bringing in wheelie bins soon after they have been emptied, to avoid obstructing pavements.
Since our first meeting in October 2024, we have already achieved a lot including:
• Getting agreement from Horsham District Council to increase disabled parking in the Cooper’s Way car park.
• Identifying an area where we hope to have an undercover area for mobility scooter parking.
• Engaging with managers of public buildings and carrying out disability access assessments.
Our future aims include:
• Identifying where dropped kerbs are needed, and where pavements and other areas create access problems, and liaising with West Sussex County Council and others regarding solutions.
• Achieve better information and signposting for disabilities.
• Encourage businesses and groups to include an accurate accessibility section on their websites.
• Encourage integration of people with disabilities into existing local clubs and groups.
• Work with Henfield Library and 4Sight to help people with visual impairments.
Some of these actions will inevitably have a cost. We aim to apply for grants through Henfield Community Partnership, but we also welcome support from individuals, groups and companies.
Further help is still needed, and we’re looking for volunteers who can help with managing correspondence, creating social media content, technical expertise for getting appropriate hearing systems into buildings, and collecting useful information on disabilities and on sources of help and support. Please get in contact if you can help us.
Once our website is up and running, we will publish a survey which will help to highlight access issues within Henfield. We hope the whole community will participate and help us to make Henfield accessible for everyone.
Sara Williams, Access Henfield
Complete Interior & Exterior Renovations
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Bespoke Garden Rooms
Small local business based in Henfield, with over 18 years’ experience.
Following Endless Horizons
Photographer James Brown loves Sussex, he’s an avid walker with his dog Ralph and he’s enjoyed three TV appearances talking about his photography, including appearances on the One Show and BBC Southeast Today.
If you follow social media you’ll probably see his work pop up on local photography sites, Brighton Skies is an immensely popular page and James is one of their most popular contributors. Above all, he loves sharing views of the beautiful Sussex countryside, the seasons, wild weather and nature. For him, it’s a joy to bring the colours and beauty of our countryside into other people’s lives, especially those who don’t get to see nature up close.
This month, James has kindly shared some of his photographs for our BN5 front cover; deciding which to use was almost impossible! He’s taken some stunning shots of the Downs Link at Henfield and some iconic views of the glorious South Downs. In the end, we decided that the magnificent blazing sunset on this image were perfect to bring some vibrancy one of the darkest months of the year; we hope you enjoy it.
James is available for commissions, for landscapes, people and pets, he has a real affinity with animals and captures their personalities magnificently. He has been commissioned by Hawthorn Vets for various competitions, and lots of local pet owners love to see their animals captured by him. He’s also available for commercial shots and product images.
Each year, James produces a sell-out calendar of local landscapes, which supports the
Rockinghorse Children’s Charity in Brighton, he also supplies canvases for their auctions. He picked up a camera for the first time 11 years ago, as a type of therapy when his mother became terminally ill. He believes it saved him during this difficult time as he cared for her, and he hasn’t looked back. A hobby and escape has turned into a profession, for which he’s very grateful.
When he’s not out and about walking with Ralph (who has become a bit of a local superstar), his latest enjoyment is photographing the seasonal starling murmurations, Brighton and the surrounding area is renowned for these stunning acrobatic performances. It’s mesmerising to watch, capturing it is a real privilege.
You can follow Endless Horizons, on Instagram and Facebook, or purchase prints and canvasses via www.endless-horizon-photography.company.site.
If you’re interested in commissions for people, pets, weddings, christenings or commercial, please call him on 07983 332727.
Emma Cole
Have you visited the Pavilion Restaurant at Singing Hills? Special Winter Lunch Menu
Available Monday-Saturday - Two Courses £17.00 or Three Courses £24.50
Dessert of the Day ** ALLERGENS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
Also available: All Day Breakfasts, Sandwiches, Ciabattas, Bar Snacks (& Afternoon / Cream Teas booked in advance ) On Sundays we serve our Traditional Carvery
Two Courses from £28.00 (Main Course & Dessert) / Three Courses £37.00
Singing Hills Golf Centre, Muddleswood Road, Albourne, West Sussex, BN6 9EB Tel: 01273 835353 / Email: dawn@singinghills.co.uk / www singinghills.co.uk
TRADITIONAL CRAFT BUTCHERY SERVED WITH SKILL AND PASSION For collection or delivery, order forms in store, online or on social media www. southdownsbutchery.co.uk FOLLOW US: SOUTHDOWNSBUTCHERY
Our own recipe sausages | Exceptionally succulent beef from our own dry-ager Low food miles | High welfare meat | Sourced from local farmers and graziers
PADEL TENNIS
Exciting news our Padel tennis courts are expected to be completed in the next few weeks and we will be opening them in mid February.
If you are interested in booking the courts when they are open or would like a free taster session, register your interested by clicking on the QR code. We feel very lucky and privileged to be able to offer the village and the surrounding areas the fastest growing sport in England.
For further details call us 01273 494984 or pop into the centre.
FOR ANYONE WHO HASN’T HEARD OF PADEL TENNIS PLEASE SCAN THE QR CODE FOR A SHORT VIDEO
Challenge Annie: FEBRUARY !
As we go to print barely a week into January, Anne’s challenge has only just begun, and she’s already topped over £2,000 in fundraising for the Henfield Haven, an incredible achievement!
She launched Challenge Annie 2025 on Wednesday 1st January despite grey skies, gale-force winds and heavy rain; and the crowd of enthusiastic supporters at Berrett’s Farm made sure she did it with a smile on her face! A huge thank you to Henfield Home Checks for kindly sponsoring the month of sit-ups.
When you read this at the end of January, Annie will have completed 100 sit-ups a day,
that’s 3,100 throughout the month. She’s been making appearances at Henfield Leisure Centre with support from her trainer Katie Novis and various friends and family members, many of them joining in.
January’s challenge was generously sponsored by Henfield Home Checks, who are based in Henfield and are huge supporters of the Henfield Haven. They provide daily care for many local people in the area, from meals, domestic help, companionship and medicine checking, they help to keep independence with big smiles and lots of kindness.
Looking forward to February, we’re pleased to tell you that the next of Annie’s challenges is
something for all fitness lovers to join in with!
Hosted by Henfield Leisure Centre, HenRox on Sunday 2nd February is Henfield’s answer to HyRox – offering 1km runs between x8 fitness stations and challenges. Entry is £10 and not only are you getting an incredible workout in a great atmosphere, you’re supporting Annie and helping to keep the Henfield Haven safe for the future. To book please contact Henfield Leisure Centre, entrance starts at 7.30am but you do need to book your place as it’s likely to sell out. Call 01273 494984.
See you at Henrox!
Emma Cole
THANK YOU...
A huge thank you to all the generous sponsors of Challenge Annie. At the time of going to print this month we’ve heard that two Henfield institutions, Henfield Football Club and Henfield Tennis Club, have kindly stepped forward to sponsor two of the HenRox stations, we are incredibly grateful for their community support.
There will be other stations available to sponsor, please contact Digby Stephenson if you’d like to discuss how your business can help: 01273 494747 chair@henfieldhaven.org
Thank you to both these clubs for their generous support.
HOW CAN I HELP?
You can join in a challenge. Some of the months Annie will be inviting people to join her. If you are looking for a fitness challenge, you’re more than welcome! Challenge your friends and family to sponsor you and help us to raise awareness of living with dementia.
You can donate!
Any amount, large or small, is so appreciated. The easiest way is to go to the Just Giving link by scanning the QR code on this page or follow the Challenge Annie Facebook and Instagram pages.
You can sponsor a challenge. We have some fabulous sponsorship opportunities for local businesses or individuals, a huge thank you to everyone who’s already signed up. Please contact Digby, chair@henfieldhaven.org
You can spread the word… By following the social media pages and sharing Annie’s updates, or by giving her a positive comment or two! At the same time you’ll be letting everyone know how important the Haven is to Henfield, and you’ll be raising awareness of living with dementia.
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Dementia Awareness Pop In
Monday 10th February 9.30am-2.30pm at
the Henfield Haven
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, one in two people will be affected by dementia in their lifetimes, either by developing it themselves or caring for someone living with it. You may encounter people living with dementia every day, so knowing how to help and what to expect is invaluable.
Hosted by the Henfield Haven and led by dementia professional and Haven manager Lorette Mackie, this free Dementia Awareness Pop-In is supported by the Alzheimer’s Society and Henfield Home Checks. There will be an NHS Community Dementia Nurse in attendance.
You’ll get the opportunity to meet carers and service users, share experiences and find out what a difference the Henfield Haven has made to their lives.
Our special guest is Anne Dewdney. Anne supports her husband, Rohan, who was diagnosed with FTD (Frontotemporal Dementia) 10 years ago at the age of 56. Rohan was one of the Haven’s first customers and continues to enjoy the services, friendship and support we offer. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Henfield Haven, Anne has embarked on ‘Challenge Annie’, a series of 10 challenges in 2025 to raise money for the Haven. You can find out about their dementia journey and how you can get involved with Challenge Annie.
There will be free refreshments and you will be able to purchase delicious homemade cakes and barista coffee from our community café.
This pop-in is for everyone – so please come along and find out more about dementia from symptoms, adjusting to a diagnosis and what
help and support there is available, for those who may need it. Everyone is welcome to drop in, please help us to make Henfield dementia friendly.
Lorette Mackie, Henfield Haven
A NOTE FROM US AT THE HAVEN…
We know that dementia is indiscriminate. Facing a sudden diagnosis can be shocking for everyone involved. The early days of adjustment can be especially challenging.
The Henfield Haven is a bright spot for anyone coming to terms with the news that a loved-one is starting this journey. The professionals, carers and volunteers at the Haven will be there for you with information, understanding, kindness and care. The Haven is a daily reminder that living with dementia can be joyful, you only need to visit during a high needs activity to see the smiles and hear the laughter.
The Haven also acts as crucial carer support, giving carers some well-deserved time off, as well as helping elderly and vulnerable people in our community, however they need our help. The Community Café is open for everyone. Without the lifeline of the Haven many local people would be lost and lonely and falling through the gaps of the system. We want to make sure this essential lifeline for Henfield is secure for the future, whatever it brings.
Lancing College Chapel
Lancing College Chapel is a nationally important masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and a Grade I Listed monument.
Lying within the grounds of Lancing College, an independent day and boarding school, and nestled in the South Downs National Park, it is a treasured and iconic Sussex landmark.
Founded in 1868, Lancing College Chapel is the largest school chapel in the world, with the height of the nave an impressive 90 feet. Discover the immaculately curated architecture that has witnessed beautiful additions and restorations throughout its history, from the stained-glass window consecrated by Desmond Tutu in 2007 to the altar tapestries woven on William Morris looms. The Chapel welcomes visitors and is open daily from 10am to 4pm and from noon to 4pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday & Easter Sunday). Visit us during the week of 7 April 2025, and enjoy coffee and cake on the Chapel lawn from our vintage refreshments van ‘Polly’.
For the last 40 years there has been a continuous campaign of stone conservation, alongside completing the building of the Chapel which was finished in 2022, 154 years after its foundation. It has won many awards and its architecture is breathtaking, which only those who visit can truly appreciate.
The upkeep and maintenance of the whole building is relentless. Every breath of wind, every drop of rain, every storm, every frost, every pigeon and every insect degrade the structure and cause damage which must be repaired, and that’s where the The Friends of Lancing Chapel come in! The Friends is a charity completely independent of the school, which has been giving financial support and professional advice to the Chapel for over 70 years. It is easy to become a Friend and membership is not expensive. Plus you will receive exclusive invitations to events and concerts as well as priority booking for the carol service – an occasion not to be missed!
The Friends of Lancing Chapel hold an annual festival every autumn, with a beautiful Choral Evensong and a guest speaker. Attendance is free to members. To find out about other events in the Chapel and how to become a member please visit the College website www.lancingcollege.co.uk/chapel or scan the QR code.
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Richard Bates, Henfield resident and consultant solicitor at Cognitive Law in Brighton, comments on resolving arguments between attorneys appointed under a lasting power of attorney (LPA).
LPAs allow an individual (the ‘donor’) to appoint attorneys to make decisions on their behalf. However, disagreements can arise between attorneys, which can complicate the donor’s care and management of their affairs. Resolving such disputes efficiently is crucial for ensuring the donor’s interests are protected. The first step in resolving a dispute is understanding the scope of the LPA. There are two types: one for property and financial affairs and another for health and welfare. Attorneys may be appointed to act jointly (together) or jointly and severally (individually or together). Disputes often arise when attorneys interpret their roles differently. Reviewing the LPA document and the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) Code of Practice can clarify each attorney’s authority and responsibilities, which may help resolve any misunderstandings.
Disagreements often stem from misunderstandings or lack of clarity. Attorneys should engage in open, honest discussions to express concerns and find common ground. A meeting or series of discussions, focused on the donor’s best interests, can often resolve disputes. Having a neutral third party, such as a solicitor, involved can also help facilitate constructive conversations, especially when emotions are high. The donor’s preferences are central to the LPA, and their wishes should take precedence in resolving disputes. If the donor is unable to provide guidance, the attorneys will need to consider previous statements or other indications of the donor’s wishes. Attorneys must act in the donor’s best interests and the MCA Code of Practice explains the process for making best interest decisions.
When communication does not resolve the dispute, mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) may be a helpful option. A neutral mediator can help the attorneys reach an agreement without involving the Court. Mediation is typically quicker and less expensive than litigation and allows the attorneys to maintain control over the outcome. However, it will not be suitable in all cases.
If all else fails, the dispute may need to be escalated to the Court of Protection. The Court can make a judgment on the decision in question and can also revoke or amend an attorney’s powers, appoint a new attorney, or even designate a deputy to manage the donor’s affairs. While this is a last resort, it ensures the donor’s welfare is protected and that decisions are made fairly.
To avoid disputes, careful planning is essential. The donor should select trustworthy, capable attorneys who can work together. Including clear instructions on how the donor wishes to be treated and handling disagreements can also help prevent future conflicts. Regular communication amongst the donor’s support network about the donor’s needs and wishes can reduce misunderstandings.
If you would like to discuss these themes further, please do get in touch on 01273 284012 or richard.bates@cognitivelaw.co.uk. You can find out more about me at www.cognitivelaw.co.uk. Cognitive Law Limited is registered in England & Wales under company number 9753152. Our Registered Office is Sussex Innovation Centre, Science Park Square, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9SB. We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Number 626344) and comply with the SRA Code of Conduct.
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To ensure that our wild birds are looked after, we hava a large selection of nesting boxes, bird feeders, fat balls and nuts And of course, we stock all you’ll need to keep your garden looking at its best – including new season plants, bulbs and compost.
Collect Privilege Gold points at Rushfields!
Visit our Plant Centre and sign up for your FREE PRIVILEGE GOLD CARD! Use it every time you make a purchase in our Plant Centre or Farm Shop and build up your points. Points make pounds so the more you earn –the more you save!
Our Café is open for limited numbers serving home-made breakfast, lunch and hot drinks. Outside keep dry in our covered area, dogs are welcome.
Winter-warming pies, sausages and more in our awardwinning Farm Shop
Our Farm Shop offers a tempting array of locally-sourced foods, including our award-winning sausages, Sussex cheeses, fresh chicken, beef, pork plus homemade pies and pastries. What’s more, we offer a wide range of seasonal vegetables, artisan bread, cheeses, Sussex ales and wine.
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!
• Buy seed potatoes and put them somewhere frost free and light to let them start sprouting
• If soil conditions allow continue digging over vegetable patches ready to apply manure in March.
• If you use the no dig option lightly fork the soil ready for manure
• For flower beds, no need to dig but lightly fork around the plants ready for the manure
• Sow sweet peas and keep under glass ready for planting out in April
• Don’t forget to keep bird feeders topped up with high energy foods such as fat balls, sunflower hearts and peanuts.
Conway Thorns
Conway died peacefully at home in Henfield on 14th December 2024, just a month before his 84th birthday. He was Henfield through and through (the Thorns family can be traced back pre-1800s in the village) and although his career took him to live on different continents, the village always drew him back. He was inextricably linked to Henfield Cricket Club and Football Club, contributing with wholehearted enthusiasm to many other areas of Henfield life.
Conway was christened Frank Conway; named after his uncle Frank, and his middle name after HMS Conway, the ship his father Nelson sailed on as a cadet. Sadly, in 1945 Uncle Frank was killed in active service. He was one of 20 men who lost their lives on HMS Vestal when it was hit by a kamikaze aircraft in the South Pacific, it was the last Royal Navy ship to be sunk in WWII just two weeks before VJ Day. Conway’s grandparents were distraught, so the name Frank was left to honour his uncle, and at the age of three he took on his middle name, Conway.
During his early childhood he lived above the family’s butchery shop, Thorns, where Goodness and Jasmine’s Florist now stands. The car park behind was then just a field with sheep where he used to play. He had vivid memories of the Canadian soldiers billeted in Henfield before D-Day playing the piano and keeping him awake as a child, he often stayed with his grandparents who were licensees of the Station Hotel next to the Railway Station. He went to Miss Light’s school on Upper Station Road, and to Steyning Grammar and Shoreham College, playing village cricket throughout his youth. In fact, he was incredibly proud to be the 6th generation of Thorns to play for the Club, and even more proud when his grandson Sebastian played his first game; now the 8th generation of Thorns.
“With the passing of Conway the club has lost one of its stalwarts. The word is often overused but in Conway’s case it is entirely appropriate.
He was heavily involved in all aspects of the club, initially as a captain in the second XI helping to develop many of the younger members and subsequently as a coach to the colts. He became Chairman before latterly becoming President. However, this broad overview does not truly reflect his commitment to the club. Both he and Olga carried out countless other tasks central to the running of any club, but which all too often go unnoticed. The club is very grateful for his contribution. Our condolences go out to Olga and the rest of his family at this sad time.”
David Jemmett
Cricket and football were a strong thread through Conway’s life, he was a fabulous all-round sportsman who was even signed for Brighton & Hove Albion as a schoolboy by the great Billy Lane; he would modestly say that he had the ‘great advantage of being tall’. He was a lifelong football fan and very proud to have seen the great Johann Cruyff play when Ajax won against Liverpool in 1965.
“Conway was and always will be a Henfield legend. His unwavering commitment to the village, its community and its amenities is all around for us to see. The Leisure Centre, the Football Club, but most of all Henfield Cricket Club.
Conway was a warm and lovely next-door neighbour and a famed Christmas caroller under the Big Tree in Mill Drive (‘5 Gold Rings’ will never be the same!). Knowledgeable, wise and of course that unique Conway laugh - initially a lowkey giggle, building to a loud raucous belly laugh - will always continue to be felt ringing around the cricket pavilion on matchdays.
A passionate supporter of the Albion and a passenger on the Henfield Seagulls minibus from Day One at the Amex, some 13 years. Boarding the minibus for our post-match return to Henfield, Conway would always ask “So what do you think of that then?” and an animated discussion would then ensue, with Conway typically mispronouncing one of the players’ names!
We have indeed lost a legend - and Henfield is much the poorer for it.
Paul Samrah
Conway’s career as a structural engineer took him all around the world; to Holland (where he met his beloved wife Olga, they married in 1967), Canada, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Singapore, Holland again and then the UK; full circle back to Henfield in 1985 working for Vinall’s – in fact, he laid the first brick at Henfield Youth Club! His retirement in 2003 didn’t slow him down, he and Olga travelled the world and then bought and renovated a house in France. How he found time to actively contribute to so many clubs and groups in Henfield is hard to tell, but both he and Olga played their part with unwavering commitment.
“Conway was a Trustee of Henfield Leisure Centre and an enthusiastic user of the Centre’s facilities. He played a big role in the design and construction of Sharky’s, the remodelling of the reception area and installation of the lift which has
given disabled access to the gym area.
He was also very involved in the planning stages of the Padel Tennis courts (currently under construction) and the safe space room that has been built above the squash courts for secondary school students.
He examined virtually every decision made by the Trustees; always with the long-term future of The Leisure Centre as the focus, almost holding the reins to make sure we weren’t getting carried away with grand or impractical ideas. Nothing escaped his eagle eyes, and his high standards kept the Leisure Centre functioning effectively. Conway was a friend to us all, and will be sadly missed.”
Eric Holder
Most of all, Conway was a proud family man. Olga and his two children Kevin and Kim were the centre of his world, as were his four grandchildren, and his pride in their many achievements gave him enormous pleasure. One of his happiest moments was standing on the pitch at the Amex with his son Kevin and grandson Seb, celebrating the Club’s spectacular promotion to the Premiership.
His quiet legacy will remain; in the future, many local children enjoying football, cricket or even discovering the fun of Padel at the Leisure Centre probably won’t know about Conway’s part in it all. He was a mild-mannered man who never sought recognition for his hard work, but those who knew him will always remember his contribution. We will miss his kindness, his positivity and his deep love of the village. Rest in peace, Conway.
Emma Cole
“Tom
Henfield Fire Station says farewell to Jim Mundy
We’d like to say a huge Henfield thank you and congratulations to Jim Mundy, Watch Manager at ‘Station 56’, (more commonly known as Henfield Fire Station) who officially hung up his helmet on 31 December after 32 years’ service to the village.
In that time, he’s passed on his invaluable knowledge and experience to the many new recruits that have passed through the station, and has been an incredibly popular leader. His commitment to crew development has allowed recruits and crew managers to plan fire prevention activities and has seen a significant increase in the station’s community involvement, the team spend much of their time supporting vulnerable residents, helping them to stay safe.
Jim was 33 when he joined the ranks at Henfield, apparently persuaded by his mother-in-law to join! He’s not looked back since, achieving Crew Manager status in 2010 before the promotion to Watch Manager in 2015. This gave him overall responsibility for the Henfield station, which is one of the retained stations in the area.
In 2012 he was given his 20-year service medal and in 2023 he head the honour of being presented with his 30 years, at a ceremony at Arundel Castle last year, pictured here. The crew met on the last drill night of 2024 to wish him a fond farewell, they were joined by Station Manager Jon Mays who presented him with his retirement certificate.
Over the years at Henfield, he’s worked with no less than 44 different crew members, and it seems Henfield has very strong longevity rates, with 190 years combined experience between them! He’s ridden on five different appliances over the years and has seen some huge changes and technological advances over the past few years. He’s attended countless callouts, many of them
RTCs and rescues, notably two of his earliest fire attendances were the Alliance & Leicester fire in Henfield back in 1993, and the White Hart fire in ’95.
Jim’s son Steve Mundy has proudly continued the family tradition and joined the Fire Service, he now serves at the Henfield station. He said:
“I can remember as a child watching him jump the garden wall of our house at Nep Town Road when his alerter sounded; we used to joke that he’d turned into an Olympic hurdler!
“He often acted as Linesman for my childhood football matches in Henfield, we’d be well into a match and turn round to see a flag lying on the floor, and he would have disappeared at speed. Back then, crew members stayed on call even when they had child-sitting duties during the school holidays, so on several occasions there would be a call and six crew would turn out, resulting in 20 kids being left in the watch room until they got back!”
Thank you again Jim for your incredible dedication to the Fire Service and to Henfield in particular. We all hope you have a long and happy retirement.
Emma Cole
Back by popular demand: Henfield Theatre Company’s “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time”
After the resounding success of Henfield Theatre Company’s “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time” last July, our local amateur dramatic society has decided to bring the critically acclaimed production back to The Henfield Hall stage. Winner of 7 Olivier Awards, including Best New Play in 2013, and based on the novel by Mark Haddon with adaptation for the stage by Simon Stephens, “Curious Incident” has been performed in the West End and on a tour of the World. Henfield Theatre Company were privileged to be one of the first amateur dramatic societies to be granted the licence and are thrilled to be bringing it back to the local stage again in March 2025.
Christopher Boone (played once again by Ven Malyon, who is himself autistic) is a 15-year-old mathematician, living a quiet life in his home town with his father. One night, he discovers his neighbour’s dog has been killed with a garden fork and he takes it upon himself to solve the mystery.
The play is seen from Christopher’s perspective, where we quickly learn he is neurodivergent. But this play is more about celebrating difference, understanding how it is to be an outsider, than it is about ‘labels’. With themes such as identity, family, adolescence, betrayal and death, the play quickly grabs its audience, and its power brings emotions that the audience find hard to avoid.
The same 9 strong cast members (alongside Ven are Emily Norman, Rebel Atkinson, Sarah Jenner-Jones, Helen Fyles, Jane Haines, Paul Crowe, Trevor Hodgson, and Malcolm Harrington) perform as an ensemble, interacting with Christopher as key people in his life but also representing his thoughts, his interpretations of everyday life and creating a multi-sensory approach, presenting Christopher’s unique and idiosyncratic take on the world.
As Director, Karen Blunden is keen for ‘curious’ audiences to again experience something a little different from the norm…. sometimes strange, often amusing, occasionally baffling, somewhat bizarre and surprising. She said, “I am hoping that, as well as everyone being thoroughly entertained, with some tears and plenty of laughter, our audience will leave the theatre with a better understanding and a raised awareness. I’d invite all of us to question our own views, judgements and pre-conceptions, and challenge ourselves … looking particularly at how we interact with others we deem ‘different’. I want the message to be one of being kind, more patient, more helpful and always remaining ‘curious’.”
Mandy Ainsworth
Performances are at the Henfield Hall on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th March 2025 at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at £12 each, and are on sale via www.henfieldtheatrecompany.com and at Stevens Estate Agents in Henfield High Street.
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Time to review your estate planning?
Changes to inheritance tax (IHT) coming over the next three years, outlined in the Autumn Budget, could mean that a review of your estate planning is required. The final rules have yet to be published so there could be more changes to come, and there are two main areas that need to be examined.
Pensions
Labour’s first Budget brought significant changes to pensions and inheritance tax (IHT) has led to further considerations for estate planning. From April 2027, unspent pension funds will be included in the value of an estate for IHT purposes. This may increase the overall value of the estate affecting the residence nil rate band and leading to a higher IHT consequence.
Here are some strategies to mitigate the pension IHT liability:
1. Drawdown down and gifting: drawing down your pension and making regular gifts out of income can be an effective strategy. These gifts are typically IHT-free, but it’s crucial to ensure that this approach doesn’t compromise your financial security.
2. Spousal transfers: leaving your pension to your spouse or civil partner can help, as transfers between spouses are generally IHTfree. This can also allow the surviving spouse to benefit from any unused IHT allowance.
3. Charitable donations: leaving part of your estate to charity can reduce the IHT rate on the remaining estate from 40% to 36%.
If part of your estate planning involves pension benefits paid on death, then the new rules from
2027/28 could significantly increase the IHT liability on your estate. This applies to any residual pension funds unused at the date of death but may also to apply to certain lump sum death benefits payable alongside a pension scheme and dependents pensions from certain types of schemes.
Business and agricultural reliefs
If you own shares in a private business, a partnership interest or agricultural land, the £1million overall cap on 100% IHT relief means you can no longer assume these will pass to your beneficiaries free of IHT if you die after 5 April 2026. Relief of 50% will be available above the cap and the IHT can be paid over ten years in interest-free instalments.
In theory, a married couple or civil partners can transfer business assets and/or agricultural land worth £2 million before IHT bites, but as the £1 million limit is not transferable, each partner would need to make their own bequest. As a result, it could be necessary to restructure ownership and revise wills before 6 April 2026 arrives. Alternative strategies are available, but as with pensions, any approach must be tailored to your personal circumstances and financial goals.
Jonathan Aikens, Partner, Moore Kingston Smith LLP T: 020 4582 1881 | E: jaikens@mks.co.uk
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