BN5 Magazine July 2023

July

Editor’s Letter

Welcome to the July issue of BN5 magazine, school’s (almost) out!

But before it is, we have the St Peter’s Primary School Fete to look forward to – always a smashing date in the school calendar. Or for something entirely different, why not enjoy the Sussex Prairies Rhubarb Festival for a deliciously quirky experience! The Prairie Gardens will be hosting an afternoon in celebration of this beautiful and very versatile fruit (which is apparently a vegetable – who knew!). Turn to page 24 for details, why not enter one of the baking competitions or even try your hand at distilling some rhubarb gin?

We were thrilled to be invited to the Henfield Haven to the launch of their small but beautifully formed Sensory Garden, pictured on our cover. It’s just for the customers (although regular visitors can enjoy the beautiful café garden as before) and filled with beautifully planted raised beds. Please pop by and take a look, everyone is welcome for coffee or lunch in the community café. A huge thank you to all the staff and volunteers who continually strive to make the Haven a beautiful and safe place for the whole community. Happy holidays!

Emma Cole, Editor

Copy deadline & contacts

06 What’s On from the BN5 area

08 News from the BN5 area

20 Local Interest

Henfield Youth Football Tournament

24 Local Interest

Sussex Prairies Rhubarb Festival

32 Local Interest

Henfield Haven Sensory Garden

42 Local Interest St Peter’s School Fete

47 Local Interest Tuk Tuk Challenge

53 Local Interest

Moths from Sussex Wildlife Trust

62 Index

Of local advertisers

Many thanks to our editorial and photographic contributors this month;

Sam Witherden, Joe Penfold, Pauline McBride, Debbie west, Sarah Butler and Paul Samrah. Cover photograph by Emma Cole with additional artwork by Helen Boosey.

BN5 magazine is printed on 100% FSC approved managed forests paper at Gemini Print in Shoreham and is printed using vegetable-based inks.

Copy deadline for advertisements or editorial submissions for the August 2023 issue of BN5 magazine is Friday 7 July.

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

Rhubarb Afternoon on the Prairies

Sun 2 Jul, 1-5pm, Sussex Prairie Garden

Celebrating all things rhubarb. 2-for-1 entrance for all those bringing a competition entry. Entries should be with us ready for judging by 2pm at the latest.

Twineham School Summer Fair

Sun 2 Jul, 12.30-3.30pm, Twineham School

Playing Field

Traditional fair attractions including dog show, pony rides, tug of war, food, ice cream and much more. Free parking.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Fri 7 – Sun 9 Jul, 6pm, Sussex Prairies Garden

Henfield Theatre Company summer openair production of Shakespeare’s best loved comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets £17.50 from Stevens Estate Agents or at www. henfieldtheatrecompany.com

St Peter’s School Fete

Sat 8 Jul, 2pm, St Peter’s Primary School

Summer Fete favourites, including a tombola, Mega Raffle, inflatables, assault course and games for everyone to enjoy, including the fabulous PTA pallet mini golf and crafting for the little ones.

Henfield Artisan Market

Sun 9 Jul, 10am-2pm, Cooper’s Way Car Park

Featuring local growers, producers, makers and crafts; delicious food and drink and some special hand-crafted items and gifts. henfieldmarket@gmail. com if you’d like a stall.

Introduction to Social Media

Wed 12 Jul 10am-12pm, Henfield Hall Garden Rm

An introduction to the basics of using Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter and Instagram from Henfield Computer Club. www.henfieldcomputerclub.org.uk

Over 180 different events can be found online at henfieldbn5.co.uk

Friday Night Supper Club

Fri 14 Jul, 5-9pm, Albourne Wine Estate

Safari Pizza return to Albourne Estate with their pizza cooked in a Land Rover Defender! Call to book your table 01273 831222 or email info@albourneestate. co.uk

Henfield Repair Café

Sat 15 Jul, 10am-12pm, Henfield Haven

Bring along your items to be repaired, bike repairs, electrical items, sewing, blunt scissors, secateurs or knives for sharpening, all for a small donation. We look forward to seeing you. www.sh2030.org.uk

People, Places, Polar Bears

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Jul, 10.30am-4.30pm, Steyning Centre

A major photographic exhibition from Steyning Camera Club to mark its 50th Anniversary. All the images exhibited are taken by our member photographers. www.steyningcc.org.uk

Fulking Fair & RSPCA Dog Show

Sun 16 Jul, 12-5pm, Longclay’s Field Fulking

A traditional village fair with fun for the whole family. Side shows, children’s games, dog show, bar, barbecue and ice cream.

Jazz in the Boneyard

Summer Games Afternoon

Sun 16 Jul, 2-4pm, Hackett’s Cottage, Church Ln

The Friends of St Peter’s Church would like to invite you to join them for a Summer Games’ Afternoon with Pimm’s and nibbles. Tickets £10 from Cornerweighs.

Tennis Club Open Day

Sat 22 Jul, 12-3.30pm, Henfield Tennis Pavilion

Activities include a bouncy castle, racket display, exhibition match, fun tennis games, BBQ and other refreshments. Free admission. www. henfieldtennisclub.com

Sat 22 Jul, 7-9.30pm, St Giles’ Church, Shermanbury

Mark Travers Quintet perform at this mini version of Glyndebourne. Bring picnics, rugs and chairs. Indian Street Food stall. Gates 6.15pm. Tickets £15 from Marcus Grimes.

Summer Theatre School

Sat 22 Jul – Sat 26 Aug, various times, Henfield Hall

See www.henfieldbn5.co.uk for full details. Saturday summer school for children age 8-17, each session lasts 3 hours and must be pre-booked. £10 for members.

Henfield Theatre Company Launches Saturday Summer School for Children

Does your child enjoy drama? Are you looking for something to entertain your children throughout the school summer holiday? Then this may be for them. Henfield Theatre Company is launching a new Saturday summer school for children aged 8 to 17 this summer. The sessions will last three hours each and will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis. Run by Mandy Ainsworth, who is first-aid trained, DBS checked and safeguard trained, you can be sure that your child will be safe and have fun. Sessions start on Saturday 22 July and run each week until Saturday 26 August from 9am-12pm (except Saturday 29 July which will run from 2pm-5pm) in the Garden Room of The Henfield Hall.

Price is £10 for members per session per child, and £15 for the initial session for non-members (which will include a year’s membership) followed by £10 per session per child for any subsequent session. Your child can attend just one or all six sessions – it is entirely up to you. Spaces are limited so please don’t delay. For further information and to book, please email Mandy directly through mandya1276@gmail.com. However, please note Mandy will be unavailable from 3 July - 17 July and emails will be responded to on a first-come, first-served basis on her return for those received during that time.

Mandy Ainsworth

Steyning Camera Club Exhibition

Come and see some amazing photographic art and imaging this July. Steyning Camera Club, which has members from Henfield and surrounding villages, is hosting a major exhibition to mark its 50th Anniversary. This will take place between 10am - 4pm on Saturday 15 July and Sunday 16 July at the Steyning Centre, Fletchers Croft, Steyning, BN44 3XZ. Refreshments available. Free entry.

Nigel Higson

Fulking Fair and RSPCA fun dog show

Here is a reminder that Fulking Fair and RSPCA Fun Dog Show is at the new location of Longclays Field (between Fulking and Edburton) at the foot of the downs on Sunday 16 July from 12-5pm. Admission and parking is free. Attractions include: Bar and barbeque, Live music, hot and cold food, ice creams, kids games, many demonstrations, homemade cakes, teas and coffees, stalls etc. This will be the best Fulking village event of 2023, so don’t miss it!

Sally Brownie

Squirrels

The last week of May launched a new era for 1st Henfield Scout Group, with the Group investing our initial cohort of Squirrels and their new leaders! Squirrel Scouts is the new offering for 4 and 5 year olds - and like all our sections is for both Boys and Girls. The new sections operates from the heart of Henfield and brings the excitement and fun of Scouts to this new age group and they’re really enjoying it!

With a new team of leaders formed from parents of Squirrels, assisted by young leaders that were only relatively recently Henfield Cubs and Scouts themselves, we are seeing great enthusiasm about this new offering with more Squirrels joining soon, so our first section will soon be full! However if demand does exceed supply, we will look to open a second Drey if we get parents to support and join this great team. So if you are interested in your child becoming a squirrel and helping form our second Drey - then please get in touch, or indeed if you are interested in joining or helping at any section then please contact us. Our details are GSL@1sthenfieldscoutgroup.co.uk .

Mark Williams

The Henfield Hall

I have spent 13 happy years in Henfield but I am about to emigrate to Australia. This has made me reflect on all the clubs, society and facilities Henfield has for everyone to enjoy. There is however one facility that I have particularly appreciated, but is taken for granted by many and needs more help and support. There are many good causes in the village such as the Haven and the Scout Hut that rightly attract attention, but what about The Henfield Hall?

The Hall is a charity owned by the people of Henfield and the trustees have done a great job raising money and refurbishing the building which is a fantastic venue for many events from meetings to children’s parties and major theatrical

productions. It is a unique and useful building offering a large, modern and versatile space and excellent value.

The recent change to incorporated status has provided an opportunity for the people of Henfield to be more involved by becoming members at no charge. This means they are kept up to date with all the decisions about the running of the hall and vote at general meetings. When this scheme was launched last year it was very disappointing as very few people joined. Please give active consideration to getting involved in the running of the Hall to help ensure its prosperous future. It needs involvement of people of all ages with a variety of interests as members, as Trustees and as officers (Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary). You can get information from www.thehenfieldhall.org.uk

Diane Fuell

Children can become superstars at the library this summer!

Do you know a child aged 4–11 years? Why not encourage them to take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge at their local library? Their challenge is to choose and read some amazing library books over the holiday. They also receive a fab fold out poster and the more they read the more scratch and sniff smelly stickers they collect.

There are fun activities in the library too, including a Character Hunt with a chance of entering a prize draw. If they complete the challenge by the end of the school summer holidays they are rewarded with a medal and certificate. They just need a library card to join in the fun. What’s more; it’s free to join the library and free to take part! The fun starts on Saturday 8 July. To find out more and register for the challenge go to westsussex.gov.uk/src

Beverley Kinahan, Henfield Library

Would you be interested in being a Walking Netball Host?

We are looking at starting up ‘Walking Netball’ at Henfield Leisure Centre but before we can start we need to have a couple of volunteers to be trained as hosts. The cost for the one day training will be covered by the Leisure Centre. Is this something you would be interested in doing? If so, please leave your name and contact details at the Leisure Centre reception or email simonthompson@henfieldleisure.org.uk .

Simon

Thompson,

Henfield Leisure Centre

Henfield Computer Club - Social Media

Come along and join us for an update on how social media could benefit you on Wednesday 12 July. For many digital communication can be daunting, however it can be a great tool to keep in touch and know what is going on without having to do very much. We’ll show you the basics to using Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter and Instagram. Join us in the Garden Room at The Henfield Hall on Wed 12 July 10am-12pm, with the presentation lasting no more than hour, a chance to ask questions and enjoy some refreshments. If you’d like to come along please let us know at henfieldcomputerclub@gmail.com. £2 for members and £3 for guests.

Dawn Butcher

sussex prairies garden

Open

1 June - 15 October 2023

Sainsbury’s arrives in Henfield with new Neighbourhood Hub store

Sainsbury’s has welcomed customers in Henfield as it opened its doors following three months of comprehensive upgrade works. Sainsbury’s purchased the building from Knight’s Budgens last year and all 34 colleagues from the original store have stayed with the store to become new Sainsbury’s colleagues. It will now be open from 7am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Customers can now take advantage of a new Click & Collect service in the store, which conveniently enables them to order online from Sainsbury’s much-loved Argos, Habitat and Tu Clothing brands for collection whilst picking up their groceries.

Sainsbury’s Henfield Local will be part of the retailer’s Food Donation Programme, where stores partner with local organisations to redistribute surplus food to those who need it most. The new Local will continue to work with Horsham District Foodbank, which worked with the previous store, via Sainsbury’s wider partnership with food donation charity Neighbourly.

Liam Parris, Sainsbury’s Henfield Local Store Manager, said: “I know the people of Henfield have been looking forward to today’s opening and it’s been great to welcome them through our doors. I’m delighted that the entire team has decided to become part of the Sainsbury’s family and I’m really proud of my colleagues for the way they have pulled together to help get everything ready. I hope the local community enjoys their new store and I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us along the way.”

Duncan Kennedy

Henfield Youth Club latest news

Henfield Youth Club has been in our village since 1962, and in 2005 we moved into our current home in Deer Park. We have been through a lot of changes, our biggest one being the withdrawal of financial and youth service support from West Sussex County Council (WSCC), who funded staff and gave a substantial grant towards the building’s costs.

We found ourselves facing a mammoth challenge, which we thankfully rose to through the dedication of our consistent staff team, our committee and the amazing organisations, Parish and District Council, plus the unwavering support of the local people in our village. We are now one of very few remaining youth clubs in the area. More recently we’ve been working hard to refurbish our kitchen so that we can open an extra night each week as a safe space café for our older age group. We are excited that the work is finally completed and our opening night was on Friday 16 June. Our sessions are: Tuesdays for Juniors (ages 7½ yrs to 11 yrs), 6-7.30pm, £2.50; Thursdays for Seniors (ages 12-18 yrs), 7.309pm, £2.50; Fridays for Poppin’ Café (ages 15- 19 yrs), 7-10pm, free.

Although we’ve had lots of support with this, both financially as well as hands-on (which we are extremely grateful for!), it’s not been without extra expense to our very limited funds.

We continue to fundraise through our eBay selling (supported by Sustainable Henfield 2030) as well as holding fundraising events and applying for grants. We would really welcome any future support that you may be able to offer in the way of fundraisers, committee members and donations. If you would like further information, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us on 01273492161 or email henfieldyouthclub@tiscali.co.uk

Debbie Slaughter

New Parish Council Chairman

Congratulations to Cllr. Elaine Goodyear, who was voted Parish Council Chairman at the Parish Council AGM on 7 May. Elaine has been a dedicated councillor for Henfield for several years and has plenty of experience to bring to the position. She was Deputy Chairman during the chairmanship of Malcolm Eastwood. We wish Elaine good luck in her new role.

Editor

Children & Young People Coordinator

We are looking for a part-time Children and Young People Coordinator to play a leading role in developing a Parish Council Children & Young People Programme.

The post holder will be responsible for getting to know the Parish in regard to children and young people and support the work of the Henfield Parish Council Children and Young People Committee to shape a strategy for the young people. For a more detailed job description and application form please email the Parish Office on office@henfield.gov.co.uk or call 01273 492507

Henfield Parish Council

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Expressions of Nature

A new sculpture exhibition will take place at Sussex Prairie Gardens in 2023. ‘Expressions of Nature’ will be curated by Gabrielle Argent of The Glass Garden Ltd and will be on show at this RHS-affiliated garden in West Sussex from the 1st June to the 15th October 2023. Established and emerging mixed media sculptors from around the UK will be participating and there will be an opportunity to purchase work from the garden.

Commenting about the plans, Curator, Gabrielle Argent says: “Knowing how beneficial sculpture gardens are to health and wellbeing, we are so looking forward to creating a beautiful and mindful art walk in Sussex Prairie Garden. The gardens look good through every season and our artists can’t wait to be exhibiting their work amongst the incredible planting planned for 2023.” There is an excellent cafe, plant centre and other special visitor events throughout the summer. Dogs on leads are allowed. Safe in Sussex is the charity being supported in 2023.

Gabrielle Argent

The Electric Community Car Club

You may recall we featured a competition by Community Transport Sussex in a previous edition to pick the logo of their new Electric Community Car Club in our village. We are delighted to report Sustainable Henfield picked the winning logo. See photo. A huge thank you to everyone who entered the competition.

The Electric Community Car Club launched on Saturday 24 June at an event organised by Henfield Community Partnership promoting volunteering as well as showcasing the work of local charities. CT Sussex was thrilled to have some very special guests help celebrate the launch of the first Club in Sussex including much loved actors James Bolam and Sue Jameson. The Electric Community Car Club will be a longterm sustainable asset for our village , which contributes to the environmental and carbon reduction ambitions of the Parish Council and community.

To find out more visit www.ctsussex.org.uk

Marie Claire Macintosh

VACANCY

Senior Motor Technician

Salary £30,000 to £40,000 OTE + benefits

Come and join our friendly team.

The successful candidate must have IMI level 3 or 4 and above or equivalent, be forward thinking with an interest in Hybrid and Electric vehicles. The use of oscilloscope and Autologic/Bosch and Delphi diagnostic equipment and MOT licence is an advantage.

For more information please email office@colesautomotive.co.uk

Southdown Engineers Sponsor Teen Happy Hour at Goodness

As the summer term at school draws to a close, we’d like to say an enormous Henfield thank you to Sean Preston and the team at Southdown Engineering for sponsoring Teen Happy Hour at Goodness Café.

Initially in collaboration with Henfield Parish Council as part of their Year of Youth, Teen Happy Hour on a Wednesday afternoon was looking for a sponsor. Sean didn’t hesitate to step forward to support the important safe space for Henfield young people. The initiative subsidises bubble tea and smoothies once a week, providing a meeting space with music and chat. It’s a simple concept and one that our brilliant young people (so often overlooked) really deserve.

New Children’s Book From Henfield Author

Henfield resident Michael Heal has just published ‘Animal Tales For Today’ which has been well received by the retail trade. A former teacher of English and a journalist on national titles, the book is targeted at children in the age range 5 – 8 years. It introduces them to a fascinating selection of characters from the animal kingdom whose exploits will entertain, surprise, charm, inform and amuse. Written in verse, it is enhanced throughout by eye-catching, full colour, original illustrations that bring out both the narrative and character of the animals portrayed –as well as including some little-known aspects of the behaviour of some of our popular species. The book is a celebration of the wonders of the animal world and is one that children will love to read and share with family members and friends. Animal Tales For Today retails at £7.99 and is available from bookshops in Sussex including The Steyning Bookshop, City Books in Hove and at The Post Office in Henfield.

Michael Heal

Fantastic contribution of volunteers recognised

Sean has a history of helping - he was the brains behind ‘Truckin’ for the Haven’ when the Henfield Haven was at serious risk of closure, his generosity and that of other local businesses was pivotal to the campaign to save the important dementia care centre. This support of young people is a happy ‘book-end’ to his very community conscious approach, not least because he’s Henfield through and through. Hannah said: ‘A huge thank you to Sean for sponsoring the summer term’s Happy Hour! Like us he feels it’s important for teens to have a safe and comfortable place to see their friends and relax after school. Teen Happy Hour takes place every term-time Wednesday 4-6pm, as the Steyning school bus arrives. Sean’s sponsorship provides half price smoothies and bubble teas, please come along with your friends.”

Editor

As part of 2023 national Volunteers’ Week, Horsham District Council hosted an awards evening on 7 June at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens to recognise hundreds of local volunteers who work hard to make a positive difference to communities throughout the Horsham District. There were seven award categories to enter and Henfield’s Alan Barwick from Henfield Museum won the Long Service Award, for the volunteer who has been volunteering for so long nobody can remember when they even started!

The awards were presented by the Vice Lord

Lieutenant, Sir Richard Kleinwort, and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Andrew Bliss. Commenting on the awards ceremony, Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Housing, Communities and Wellbeing Cllr Sam Raby said: “My congratulations go out to all the winners of our 2023 Volunteer Awards. As a council we are so grateful for all the amazing work that the voluntary sector has been doing to help our communities, particularly in these challenging times. They make such a big difference to the people they support locally. When a resident receives a warm welcome from a charity and its volunteers, who give their time for free to help out their community, it makes a huge impact.”

To find volunteering opportunities in your area please visit www.volunteerhorshamdistrict.co.uk or take a look at our new volunteering video on our Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/horshamdc

Horsham District Council

Repair Café at the Henfield Haven

Saturday 15 July is the date for the next Repair Cafe. Come along to The Haven between 10-12 to see our lovely repairers save your broken and faulty items saved from the tip! We will be waiting to fix your electrical and mechanical items, mend your bikes and computers, repair jewellery, bags and belts and our seamstresses can mend and alter the clothes you had almost given up on! We also have a team of people who can sharpen knives, scissors, secateurs and shears. So do come along, meet the Sustainable Henfield team and have tea and cake while you wait.

Melanie Hempleman

Hit the Downs for Chestnut Tree House

Would just like to share our story with you and perhaps your readers. Myself and 2 others are taking part in the annual 30k ‘Hit the Downs’ charity cycle event on 16 July to raise money for the children’s hospice charity Chestnut Tree House. Our team is a little unusual as it will feature two Ukrainian refugee ladies, one of which is staying in my home in Henfield as a guest under the government’s homes for refugee scheme. The refugee ladies felt they wanted to show appreciation for being giving an opportunity to stay in the UK while the war in Ukraine rages on. We do have a ‘just giving’ website page if anyone wants to donate to the cause. http://surl.li/hojxp

Mike James

Wellbeing Walks

A small group of volunteers from Henfield signed up to take a course run by Horsham District Council (HDC) on leading walks in urban and countryside areas. One of the drivers for this course is to encourage people in Sussex to discover Henfield, promote health through the activity of walking, conversing and establishing companionship links and social bonds. West Sussex has a comprehensive programme of walks for people of all abilities and HDC coordinates its own Wellbeing Walks programme - you can find details of this as well as our local walks on HDC’s website and the information is updated monthly.

For those who like to walk on their own or with just a close friend, Henfield Parish Council have easy-to-read leaflets featuring local walks available in the village library. So, with appropriate foot wear and clothing for the weather, we encourage you to look up HDC Wellbeing Walks and enjoy the beauty of our countryside surrounding our villages.

Kenneth McIntosh, (Member of the Henfield Walking Group)

Henfield Tennis Club Open Day

We welcome the public to see our recently upgraded Tennis Courts and Pavilion and to learn about the range of play, coaching and exercise opportunities at our Club Open Day on Saturday 22 July, 12-3.30pm, at the Kingsfield. Activities include a

racket display, BBQ and other refreshments. Free admission.

Denis Muirden

Weight Off Workshop

Would like some help managing your weight? Are you ready to create healthier habits? Our 12week Weight off Workshop (WOW) aims to help you lose weight in a sustainable way. During the course we will discuss the emotional connotation of our eating patterns and how to overcome this, the importance of nutrition and life factors that

Cinema at the Henfield Hall brought to you by

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Check our website for updates

BOOK CLUB 2: The Next Chapter (12A)

Tue 25 July 7:30pm

Starring: Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda

impact our weight such as sleep and stress. The programme focuses on mental as well as physical wellbeing and will leave you with practical and manageable tips to improve your overall health. As well as this our course leader will record your weight each week and discuss your food diary. At the end of each session there will also be some gentle exercise to help reintroduce activity into your routine.

WOW is for you if you are: Ready to make small, sustainable changes every week focusing on nutrition and exercise; Able to commit to attending a minimum of 10 out of 12 sessions; Willing to complete all the evaluation paperwork.

Olivia Partridge

Small Dole Flower Show

This August should be the 77th Annual Small Dole Flower Show but unfortunately some of our valuable community members have decided to step down.

As a result we have made the decision not to go ahead with this years show but we hope to be back next year better than ever! Please keep your eyes open in the Autumn for our notices, as we need new committee members for our show to continue.

Shelley Toovey

Tickets from Marcus Grimes, High Street, Henfield IN PERSON ONLY. Advance tickets can be purchased by credit card ONLINE from www.CineMobile.uk

2023 TOURNAMENT BACK OF THE NET FOR HFC’S

The Kings Field and St Peter’s C of E School sports field saw lots of shooting, scoring, goal saving, passing, penalties, passion, pride and lots of fun and sun during Henfield Football Club’s biggest and best youth tournament to date.

The HFC tournament, which was sponsored by Pagoda Security, saw 176 teams from across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire, competing in age groups from U6s to U15s, during our brilliant tournament weekend in May. The event saw around 3,500 people visiting our wonderful village to attend.

The tournament saw plenty of HFC black and white stripy shirts showing great team work, skills and determination on the pitches over the weekend, with 18 home teams taking part, including our brilliant U6s and U7s making their tournament debuts.

Among teams lifting tournament trophies was

our Henfield U15 Girls team, managed by Gavin Williams, who became the first Henfield team to win a final at our home tournament.

As well as the often nail-biting football action, visitors also enjoyed huge inflatables, being photographed with HFC’s fantastic new mascot Marley the Magpie, mini golf, table tennis, skate boarding sessions, Goodness smoothies, candy floss, sweets, crepes, ice cream, The Barista Project coffee and free fresh fruit courtesy of Jeremy’s Two of Cowfold.

Hungry players and supporters also loved the range of delicious cakes baked by lots of wonderful HFC parents and players, local businesses including Planet Sprinkles, Truffles and Mayblossom Café and the fantastic chefs at local care homes Upper Mead, Red Oaks and Terry’s Cross.

The tournament’s amazing raffle saw two lucky winners presented with signed Harry Kane and

Photographs

© Duncan

Allen and HFC

Mbappé prints, which were kindly donated by Mounted Memories.

Also new for this year was a design our tournament programme front cover competition. This was won by HFC U11s player Ted Emery, who won himself a range of great prizes, including a signed Lewis Dunk Football, with his impressive Pelé inspired front cover.

This year’s tournament again saw amazing support from Henfield Parish Council and St Peter’s School and PTA, with many of our younger age group matches taking place on the school’s field. The school and St Peter’s PTA also kindly loaned lots of equipment to help the event run smoothly.

Tournament director Joe Warner said: “We would like to thank all the brilliant volunteers, local businesses and people in our community for their support in making this tournament our best ever.

An incredible weekend of football was enjoyed by

20 176 50 250 325 670

Support from over 20 amazing local businesses

Teams participated

Delivered by over 50 volunteers

Over 250 miles walked by HFC volunteers

Matches played Medals and trophies presented

the hundreds of children taking part.”

He added: “It was amazing to see so many players, their supporters and people from our local community having fun in the sun, whilst also helping to raise essential funds for our club.

“We have had amazing feedback from teams on what a superb tournament this is, as well as from many local businesses who commented on the big boost to trade they saw over the weekend. We can’t wait for next year already!”

Joe Penfold, HFC’s co-chair said: ““A huge thanks goes to our wonderful tournament committee, led by Joe Warner, for the endless time and energy they put into making this year’s tournament so successful and memorable for all. The funds raised are vital in enabling the club to continue supporting hundreds of local children to enjoy playing football.”

Sam Witherden and Joe Penfold HFC co-chairs

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Rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb!

Come and celebrate an afternoon of all things rhubarb at Sussex Prairies on Sunday 2 July from 1-5pm!

As well as rhubarb growing competitions, also check out the prairie potager to see the new Sussex Prairie rhubarb collection growing, enjoy some seasonal rhubarb bakes in the teashop, and check out Sussex-based grower Clare’s Chillies stand (not rhubarb, but a similar colour!)

We will be hosting several rhubarb competitions during the afternoon with Sussex Prairie Season Tickets as prizes. Competition classes are free to enter and those bringing an entry will be offered ‘2 for 1 entrance’ on the day:

• The best rhubarb - display three trimmed stems and these will be judged on quality and uniformity.

• The longest rhubarb - who cares what it looks like, the longest one wins!

• Rhubarb preserves - any jam, jelly, pickle, chutney etc with rhubarb as the main ingredient.

• Rhubarb baking – any cakes, scones, bread etc involving rhubarb in any which way you like.

• Rhubarb flavoured drink - yes it could be gin, but this one is also open to all alcoholic and non-alcoholic rhubarb concoctions.

• Kids painting competition (ages 0-10 years) – on any theme related to ‘rhubarb’.

All entries for classes should be with us and ready for judging by 2pm at the latest. Winners will be announced on the day and on our website. Entries can be picked up from the judging tent and taken home at the end of the afternoon (5pm)

We look forward to seeing you!

Pauline McBride

Rhubarb top-tips!

Generally Rhubarb is a very easy and rewarding perennial crop to grow once the plants have been established. Requiring no more than annual mulching with organic matter, plenty of water in summer and a clean-up of dead leaves occasionally.

The easiest way to establish a new rhubarb patch is to obtain a large section of ‘crown’ from an existing plant. Rhubarb is a staple crop from the allotment or kitchen garden, so ask around friends or family who are usually very happy to share.

Rhubarb crowns can also be purchased from plant nurseries or seed catalogues but these tend to be fairly small, immature plants and will need growing on for at least two or three years before cropping begins to allow the crowns to bulk up sufficiently. Rhubarb leaves are toxic so should never been eaten but it is perfectly safe to add the leaves to the compost heap as the toxins break down completely during the composting process.

A mix of two or three varieties will help extend the cropping season but most healthy plants will crop all summer long anyway. ‘Champagne Early’ is one of the earliest cultivars to producing a harvest from early spring. ‘Victoria’ is probably the most widespread cultivar. It is a heavy cropper but one of the later varieties with stems appearing in late spring.

Rhubarb stems can be sliced into 2cm pieces and frozen for later use or otherwise preserved in pies, cakes, jams, chutneys and gins so with a little effort one can enjoy the taste of Rhubarb all year round.

We love this flapjack recipe by ‘What the Redhead Said’!

400g rhubarb

60g caster sugar

200g butter

200g soft brown sugar

120ml golden syrup

400g porridge oats

Preheat the oven to 160C/325F/Gas 3 and grease a suitable oven dish or baking tray. Chop the rhubarb into bite size chunks and place in a saucepan with the granulated sugar and a tablespoon of water. You can use a little vanilla extract too if you like the flavour. Heat until on a low temperature until the rhubarb is soft and cooked through.

In a separate pan, heat the butter, soft brown sugar and golden syrup until fully melted. Put the porridge oats in a large bowl and stir in the melted butter mixture until fully coated. Add the rhubarb and mix well.

Pour the oat mixture into the prepared tray and flatten out so it reaches all the edges and has a nice even finish. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until golden brown.

Slice whilst still warm and leave to cool in the baking tray.

Rhubarb recipe

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The Haven’s new is open! Sensory Garden

At the end of May, the new Sensory Garden at the Henfield Haven was opened by local celebrity and Haven customer Rohan Dewdney. Haven volunteers, staff and trustees enjoyed the sunshine and celebration cake and admired the artwork created by Haven customers. The garden is a safe space for customers to enjoy in all weathers, with raised beds containing colourful plants, many of which taste and smell wonderful!

The idea of a sensory garden came about last year, when Henfield Haven trustees met with Haven staff for tea and a chat. At the meeting high needs carer Emma Seers, who is an experienced care professional, came up with an idea – to create a free-flow space for Haven customers which would extend their environment and experiences to the outdoors. Emma recognised that many high needs dementia customers experience enjoyment, calm and happiness through touch, sound, and smell, and that often memories can be sparked by simple, familiar tasks which are connected to nature.

Haven Trustee Trevor Hodgson took the lead on the project, exploring ideas and chatting to outside companies who quickly offered to assist with generous offers of help. Trevor’s wife Liz leads the Garden Team at the Haven, and she took over organising the design of the raised beds and the planting practicalities.

Trevor said: “The whole project has been collaborative, between local businesses, volunteers and the staff and customers themselves, putting forward their ideas. It’s a reflection of what we aim for at the Haven; making sure our high needs customers are a valued part of our village. We were thrilled to have Rohan cutting the ribbon, he and Anne were the first of the Haven’s Ground Force customers (where a team of green-fingered volunteers visit local people who are struggling to keep their gardens tidy). We know this glorious space will be used and enjoyed every day.”

Fencing was installed by local builder and friend of the Haven Nigel Parsons, who then used sleepers provided by AVS Fencing to make

the high raised beds which were filled with Olus organic top-soil and compost donated by Heritage Products. Then the special gate was installed by Bank House Gates. This wonderful community support, from local businesses owned and run by Henfield people, allowed the garden to be completed in record time and at an affordable price. There was also a little grant funding from Horsham District Council, who are always incredibly supportive of the Haven. Then the fun part! Planting lots of green things that smell and taste nice, pretty colours and fastgrowing projects to keep customers engaged. Turf was rolled out on a rainy (and muddy!) day, and finally the garden was ready to open. Complete with its own potting area, seating, wheelchair-friendly paths and terrace with cover for those English rainy days, the garden is a perfect addition to an already near-perfect Henfield Haven.

Emma explained more: “Although the Haven already has a wonderful garden connected to our Café, where customers, visitors and carers can enjoy the sunshine with their coffee, we really wanted a safe space for our customers to enjoy with confidence in the company of our staff or volunteers.

“Everyone, including our wheelchair users and those with less mobility, can get outside in the fresh air either to grow and plant, or just sit in the shade and enjoy.”

Emma Cole

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St Peter’s C of E School fantastic summer fete is fast approaching and with lots of wonderful activities on offer, to make it even bigger and better than last year, it is one not to miss.

Taking place on the school’s field on Saturday 8th July from 2pm, the event is not just for families of the school, but the whole local community is invited to come along and join in.

PTA co-chair Beckie Devlin said: “The Summer Fete is the PTA’s biggest event of the year and a key fundraiser for the school, so we hope that you will come along and support us this year too. It is going to be great fun.”

Among the exciting attractions at this year’s fete are the ever-popular inflatables, and this year the assault course is even bigger!

Fete faves return

There will, of course, be all of our Summer Fete favourites, including a tombola, Mega Raffle and games for everyone to enjoy, including the fabulous PTA pallet mini golf and crafting for the little ones.

Face gems and festival glitter will also be on offer to get us all in the party mood ready for an evening of dancing with incredible band What the Funk!

Henfield Football Club will be there with fun football-related activities and the children will also love exploring our local fire engine and meeting its crew.

The much loved BP Guild will be returning with their famous BBQ, and this year we also have the pleasure of welcoming Fratello Pizza. Of course, there will also be plenty of treats on offer including sweets, cakes and ice creams!

Fabulous arena entertainment

In our arena we are delighted to be welcoming back CC Dance, who put on a fantastic display for us last year.

Also returning is Kids Fit, who will be running a session for kids to join in with, which was so much fun at the last fete!!

Joining us for the first time this year will be Star Gymnastics with a display, we can’t wait to see what they have planned!

Another exciting new addition is Sallyann from Studio At No6 who will be teaching us all to line dance!

All of this sounds like thirsty work! Luckily, we will have our PTA bar tent to help with this where we will be selling a variety of refreshments including local beers.

Please follow our Facebook page for all of the updates about the fete and all of the amazing prizes for our Mega Raffle.

We can’t wait to see you all there!

The St Peter’s PTA Team

@St Peter’s School Henfield PTA

We’d like to take this opportunity to tell you a little bit about the PTA and what we do…

St Peter’s PTA is run by a group of parents, who volunteer their time to run fundraising events and initiatives for our school and local community.

From our Fireworks Night which is open to everyone in the village, to ‘Break the Rules’ day, second hand uniform sales, Penny Wars, to Frozen Friday ice creams, school discos to summer fetes, we organise them all, and for one reason, to benefit the children of our village school.

Last year we managed to raise around £16,000! This has been used to replace the school’s old projector with a stateof-the-art audio visual system. We have also supported the school’s Forest School programme and purchased new sports equipment and lockers for pupils.

PTA co-chair Hannah Farmer said: “With school budgets increasingly under pressure, the fundraising efforts of the PTA have never been so vital.”

We are always looking for support with our fundraising efforts, so if you think you can help, please do get in touch at ptastpeters@outlook.com

If you are able to help us by donating a prize for our Mega Raffle then please contact us via the email address above.

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Safe in Sussex Tuk Tuk Challenge

In June, Helen Hitchcock, one of Safe in Sussex’s patrons and her team of adventurers, left the UK to travel 1,100kms across India via Tuk Tuks, in aid of Safe in Sussex.

The 8 intrepid travellers have decided to undertake the Deccan Odyssey. Joining Helen are her friends Sarah Hand, Anna Tidey and her friend Yasmine, Amanda Duke and her son Tom, mum and daughter Deb and Emma Tatum. They are going to drive from the sandy beaches of the Arabian Seas, through the mountains of the Western Ghats down to the busy city of Mumbai, not however in cars or anything sensible, but covering the 1,100kms in Tuk Tuks.

Helen Hitchcock, owner of Sakala, a gift shop in Steyning which sells ethically sourced items from India said “Why do we do these things? I am asked often by many people, why not is always my reply! Life is for living and exploring, and sharing experiences with others is just magical and if you can raise some funds along the way that is an added bonus. So, we are four teams of two, a mum and son, a mum and daughter and two groups of friends, all out to have an adventure!”

The team have sponsorship from Tatum Racing, Arundel Care Services, Arri, Visual impact VI

Rental, Anton Bauer, Chandler Kent, Private Wealth Mortgages, Golding Barn Garage, Steyning Post Office, Tuk Tuk Shop, Sakala and 24-7 Drama, as well as receiving generous private donations. They have already raised over £13,000.

To celebrate the return of the Tuk Tuk Adventurers a colourful ‘Shocking Shirts and Funky Frocks Garden Party’ will be held on Sunday, 25th June at Sussex Prairie Garden, Henfield. As well as the beautiful garden to enjoy, there will be live folk music, Indian goodies to buy and a tombola.

Louise Gisbey, Safe in Sussex’s Deputy CEO said: “Once again Helen has rallied a team to go on an adventure with her and raise much needed funds so that the charity can continue to support people experiencing domestic abuse. We are so grateful to all those taking part in the Deccan Odyssey. Having been a passenger in Helen’s Tuk Tuk I know it won’t be the most comfortable of journeys and I am sure driving on the roads of India will be a challenge.”

If you want to support this group of adventurers please take a look at their Just Giving page. tinyurl.com/2cphkyjr

Or if you want to get involved in any other way, please contact fundraising@safeinsussex.org.uk Debbie West, Safe in Sussex

Large Emerald. White Ermine. Angle Shades. Peach Blossom. Burnished Brass. These are just some of the magical names that flutter to life in the garden after dark, alongside Pale Tussock, Feathered Thorn and Scalloped Oak. For centuries, moths have cast a spell of fascination and intrigue so potent they have been bestowed with some of the most beautiful, fanciful and charming names in natural history. In a break from tradition, the Victorians can’t take all the credit. Many names still in use today first emerged in the 1600s, which explains the Lute strings, Brocades, Wainscots and Footmen. Lots are more descriptive, which is helpful when trying to identify which of the 2,500 native species has settled on the ceiling. It’s easy to picture the Black V, Orange Underwing, Speckled Yellow and Chocolate-tip but others are more inventive, from the sooty-black Chimney Sweeper to the tropical sunset colours of the Beautiful Marbled, and you could even roll out the Red Carpet. Moth names often refer to the time of year, preferred habitat or larval food plant, so we have the November Moth, July High flier, Grass Eggar and Heath Rivulet. But there is no escaping the fact that many moths are very similar in appearance and even the experts struggle sometimes, as evidenced by the Uncertain, Suspected, and Confused.

If you’re keen to put a face to some of these

Moths

names, try opening a window after dark and leaving the light on. Moths navigate by the stars and are attracted to light, so a bright white bathroom makes an excellent moth trap. Pick a warm, still night and it won’t be long before the first visitors arrive, ready for you to puzzle out their identity. And with a typical back garden providing a home to more than a hundred different species, there should be plenty of variety in the moths you see.

There’s a handy guide to what’s flying tonight on the Sussex Moth Group website (sussexmothgroup.org.uk) to help narrow things down, and we’ve highlighted some of the most characteristic species you’re likely to see this month. Not all moths are nocturnal, so keep an eye out during the daytime too!

Even if you’re not sure what you’re looking at, it’s fascinating to take a closer look at these nocturnal animals and marvel at their amazing diversity. To encourage more flying Carpets, Kittens and Waves, try growing a night-scented nectar buffet of Honeysuckle, Jasmine and Evening Primrose and prepare to be spellbound by the magic of moths.

Need help identifying a moth? Send a photo to our WildCall service: wildcall@sussexwt.org.uk

Charlotte Owen, Conservation Officer at the Sussex Wildlife Trust

Six-spot Burnet © Alan Price Sussex Wildlife Trust

Six-spot Burnet

A day-flying moth with glossy black wings and bright crimson spots. These spots indicate to predators that they are toxic and shouldn’t be eaten. Adults feed on the nectar of Knapweed, Thistles and other grassland flowers. Their flight is slow and buzzing.

Hummingbird Hawk-moth

At this time of year, you might notice what seem to be tiny hummingbirds hovering amongst the flowerbeds. These little marvels migrate here from southern Europe and their wings beat so rapidly – 80 times per second – that they produce an audible hum. Their favourite foods include Honeysuckle, Lilac and Buddleia, and they often return to the same plants at the same time each day.

Elephant Hawk-moth

This large, gold-and-pink moth can be seen at dusk in gardens, parks, woods and grassy habitats from May to August. The distinctive caterpillars look like elephant’s trunks and have eyespots to scare off predators - look for them feeding on willowherbs, Fuchsia and bedstraw.

Large Emerald

This big, green moth particularly likes woodland and scrubby grassland but also parks and gardens. The wavy-edged wings have wavy white lines running across them and they rest with their wings spread open, like a butterfly. The caterpillars feed on alder, Beech and Birch and hide among the trees in winter, camouflaging themselves by placing tiny, chewed-up pieces of bark on their body.

Brimstone Moth

A yellow, mainly night-flying moth with distinctive brown-and-white spots on its angular forewings. It frequently visits gardens and is on the wing from April to October. The caterpillars feed on a variety of shrubs in the rose family, including Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Rowan.

Garden Tiger

Just like its namesake, the Garden Tiger has a furry body, bold stripes and a definite hint of the exotic. The pattern on its closed wings provides camouflage when resting on tree bark but if threatened it displays the bright red-orange underwings. Only when the wings are at full stretch are the moth’s secret stripes revealed, gracing its fluffy orange abdomen so that it looks just like a tiger’s tail.

Brimstone Moth © Bob Eade Sussex Wildlife Trust

Garden Tiger © Derek Middleton Sussex Wildlife Trust

Large Emerald © Alan Price Sussex Wildlife Trust

Elephant Hawk-moth © Bob Eade Sussex Wildlife Trust

Hummingbird Hawk-moth © David Philips Sussex WIldlife Trust

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“Tom

Recruiting overseas talent

With a growing demand for skilled workers and an increasing shortage of domestic talent, businesses have been forced to look beyond their borders to fill key positions. Obtaining visas for highly skilled foreign workers is a significant concern, as it can be a challenging and time-consuming process, fraught with bureaucratic hurdles and uncertainties.

One of the biggest challenges businesses face when trying to obtain visas for highly skilled foreign workers is the strict eligibility criteria set out by the UK government. To be eligible for a visa, foreign workers must meet certain requirements, such as possessing a certain level of education or professional experience and being proficient in English. Many highly skilled workers may not meet all the eligibility criteria, posing a significant barrier for companies looking to attract top talent from overseas.

Businesses obtaining visas for highly skilled foreign workers must also consider the cost of the visa application process. UK visa application fees can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for smaller companies with limited resources. Additionally, companies must also pay for sponsoring the worker, which can include further fees for advertising the job, conducting a resident labour market test and providing the worker with a certificate of sponsorship. These costs can make it difficult for companies to justify hiring a foreign worker over a domestic candidate.

Businesses seeking visas for highly skilled foreign workers also face the lengthy and unpredictable nature of the visa application process. Visa applications can take several months to process, during which time companies may be unable to fill key positions. In addition, the outcome of a visa application is never certain, as the UK government reserves the right to refuse visas for a variety of reasons, including concerns over national security or the applicant’s immigration history. This uncertainty makes it hard for companies to plan for the future.

As of May 2023, the UK has updated and changed its immigration rules, which will affect highly skilled foreign workers. Here is a summary of these changes:

• Global Talent Visa: The Global Talent Visa route has been expanded to make it easier for highly skilled workers to obtain a visa to work in the UK. This is for individuals who are internationally recognised as leaders or

potential leaders in their field of expertise, including scientists, researchers, academics and artists. It allows individuals to work in the UK for up to five years and provides a pathway to settlement.

• Skilled Worker Visa: The Skilled Worker Visa route has also been updated to make it easier for highly skilled workers to obtain a visa to work in the UK. This is for individuals who have a job offer from a UK employer and meet certain skills and salary requirements. The minimum salary threshold has been lowered from £25,600 to £25,000, and the general salary threshold for new entrants has been lowered from £20,480 to £20,000.

• Shortage Occupation List: The UK government has expanded the Shortage Occupation List to include more occupations, making it easier for employers to recruit highly skilled workers from outside the UK. The list includes occupations in healthcare, engineering and IT.

• Graduate Route Visa: The Graduate Route Visa has been introduced to allow international students who have completed a degree at a UK university to stay and work in the UK for two years. This route is open to graduates who have a valid tier 4 visa or a student visa at the time of application.

• Health and Care Visa: A new Health and Care Visa has been introduced for healthcare professionals who want to work in the UK. This is for individuals who work in the health and care sector, including doctors, nurses and paramedics. It allows individuals to work in the UK for up to five years and provides a pathway to settlement.

These recent updates and changes to the UK’s immigration rules provide more opportunities for highly skilled workers to come to the UK to work and live. They also provide more opportunities for UK employers to recruit and retain highly skilled workers from outside the UK.

However, the challenge lies in knowing how best to plan for resourcing for international growth. Getting professional advice can help navigate the visa application process and ensure that companies can attract and retain top talent from overseas. For further help and guidance, please contact Paul Samrah partner at Moore Kingston Smith 0204 582 1730 or psamrah@mks.co.uk