BN5 Magazine May 2023

Offers for you and your garden

Plant Centre • Farm Shop • Café

Plant Centre & Farm Shop Open: Monday – Sunday, 9.00am – 5.30pm

Café Open: Monday – Sunday, 9.00am – 4.30pm

Henfield Road Poynings, Brighton BN45 7AY

Editor’s Letter

It’s a lovely month to enjoy time with family and friends; the extra Coronation Bank Holiday (we hope accompanied by some sunshine) will put us all in the mood to celebrate!

There are some lovely events happening in the village. After the success of the Jubilee celebrations last year, Henfield Parish Council are organising a family fun day on the Rothery Field, early afternoon will be focussed on children with traditional Sports Day fun, and in the evening the B-P Guild will be providing a bar, music and beacon lighting.

In line with our King’s passion for community and volunteering, the Bank Holiday Monday will be dedicated to ‘The Big Help Out’. Henfield Scouts, SH2030 and various other organisations in the village will be rolling up their sleeves to contribute to our beautiful village. Another opportunity to get involved will come later in the summer, when Henfield Community Partnership will be showcasing some of our local clubs and groups for both volunteering and membership opportunities at the ‘Happening in Henfield’ event (taking place on 24th June). See all the details on page 37.

God Save the King!

Emma Cole, Editor

Copy deadline & contacts

06 What’s On from the BN5 area

08 News from the BN5 area

22 Local Interest

Henfield’s HDC Candidates

26 Local Interest

HFC Youth Tournament

32 Local Interest

Coronation Events preview

37 Local Interest

‘Happening in Henfield’

40 Local Interest

Pizza for Ukraine

47 Local Interest

HTC’s Midsummer Night’s Dream

62 Index Of local advertisers

Many thanks to our editorial and photographic contributors this month;

Sue Willis, Joe Penfold, Sam Witherden, Neil Laughton, Mandy Ainsworth, Sarah Butler and Paul Samrah.

Cover 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 June 2023 issue of BN5 magazine is Friday 5 May.

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

Swift Wings & The Cult of Water

Wed 3 May, 7.30pm, St Andrew’s Church Steyning

Mesmerising melodies, pagan poetry and spoken word. Tickets £12 from Steyning Book Shop. www.steyningbookshop.co.uk

Horsham District Council Elections

Thu 4 May, 7am-10pm, various polling stations (including Henfield Hall)

Don’t forget you will need photographic ID for voting. See www.horsham.gov.uk for details and see page 22 for details of Henfield candidates.

Friday Night Supper ClubThe BBQ Project

Fri 5 May, 5-9pm, Albourne Wine Estate

The BBQ Project bring their innovative style of barbeque cooking. No need to book, food orders are placed on the evening.

Coronation High Tea for two

Sat 6 & Sun 7 May, 12-5pm, Albourne Wine Estate

Mark this historic occasion sipping on Sussex wine and indulging in a delicious afternoon tea platter fit for a King. Book in advance albourneestate.co.uk.

Henfield Haven Community Lunch

Live screening of the Coronation

Sat 6 May time tbc, St Peter’s Church, Henfield

See main article (p32) on Coronation in this issue for more information

Coronation Family Fun Day

Sun 7 May, 3pm till late, Rothery Field, Henfield Free activities for children from 3-5pm followed by BBQ, bar and live music into the evening. Beacon will be lit at 9pm. All welcome.

Sun 7 May, 12.30pm, Henfield Haven

In association with Peter’s Church. Everyone welcome. Cost £13.90 for two courses (under 13s eat free) Contact 01273 494747 or admin@henfieldhaven.org to book.

Just Back from Down Under

Fri 12 May, 10am-12pm, Henfield Hall Garden Room

Presented by Henfield Wild Violets WI, a talk on an exploration of Australia and New Zealand. Visitors very welcome.

‘Adiemus’ by Karl Jenkins

Sat 13 May, 7.30-9.15pm, Steyning Centre

Performed by local choir Cantatrice with the Kaleidoscope Singers, accompanied by percussion and string ensemble. Tickets (£15, under 18’s free) from Steyning Bookshop or website.

Suspiciously Elvis

Sat 13 May, 7.30-10pm, Henfield Hall

Sit back and be entertained by the King himself, Ivor Potter as Elvis Presley. Have your requests ready as Elvis is IN the building! Tickets from eventbrite.co.uk

Henfield Artisan Market (HAM)

Sun 14 May 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.

The Madonna, Fanny Cornforth the Magdalen & the Femme Fatale

Mon 15 May, 10am-12pm, Steyning Centre

A talk by Daphne Lawson exploring the role of Victorian Women through Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Presented by The Steyning Arts Society.Free to members; visitors £10 donation.

Mad Men & the Artists

Mon 15 May, 2.15-3.45pmm Henfield Hall

A talk about how the advertising industry exploited fine art, presented by The Arts Society, Henfield. Guests welcome. £8.

HFC Youth Tournament

Sat 20 May to Sun 21 May, 9am-5pm, Kingsfield Henfield Football Club Youth Tournament is coming back bigger and better than ever this year! See main article for more information.

Unique America

Tue 23 May, 7.30-9.30pm, Small Dole Village Hall

A talk presented by Small Dole Tuesday Club, Terri Robinson’s travelogue of the quirky and unusual attractions not usually visited by tourists. Visitors welcome.

Allelujah (12a)

Tue 23 May, 7.30pm, Henfield Hall

Starring Jennifer Saunders and Judi Dench. Mobile cinema from Cinemobile, tickets from Marcus Grimes, on the door or online at www.cinemobile.uk

An Evening with Sophie Haydock

Thu 25 May, 7.30pm, Brotherhood Hall, Steyning

An evening with Sophie Haydock discussing her novel The Flames, presented by Steyning Bookshop. Tickets (including book) £13 from Steyning Bookshop.

‘Expressions of Nature’ Sculpture Trail

Thu 1 Jun to Sun 15 October, 1-5pm, Sussex Prairie Gardens

A new sculpture exhibition curated by Gabrielle Argent. Cafe, plant centre and other special visitor events throughout the summer. Dogs on leads allowed.

Friday Night Supper Club - Safari Pizza

Fri 26 May, 5-9pm, Albourne Wine Estate

A relaxed evening of local wine and a delicious African inspired wood fired pizza. To avoid disappointment, book your pizzas in advance.

Early Summer Plant Fair

Sun 4 Jun, 12-5pm, Sussex Prairies

Specialist plant nurseries curated by the Plant Fairs Roadshow. Refreshments and music by the Soho Village Jazz Band. Sussex Prairies entry fees apply.

Over 180 different events can be found online at

Sunday

at 6pm. Contact mikerussell51@yahoo.co.uk .

Monday 29th with Val Bentley – Downslink to Streatham Bridge, riverside to New Inn and back via Frogshole & Rye Farm (4 hours). Leave Hollands Lane at the end of Downslink near the Old Steam Mill at 8.30am. Contact chetsford@ talk21.com or 01273 494723.

Henfield Birdwatch Big Bird Bash

It’s time for the Henfield Birdwatch Big Bird Bash again over the weekend of 26-29 May 2023. Anyone is welcome to join one of our fun walks. We aim to find as many species as possible - you don’t need to be an expert (hopefully the leader can be that!) and you can choose as many walks as you like from the list, but please book-in with the leader.

As usual we’re raising money for The Haven. To sponsor one of the walks, please donate to Henfield Birdwatch at Barclays Bank (Sort: 20-9874; Account; 53401154; Reference BBB), or send a cheque (payable to Henfield Birdwatch) to Val Bentley, Lanacre, Blackgate Lane, Henfield, BN5 9HA.

Friday 26th with Nigel Colgate – Furners Lane, Bylesborough, Morley & Park Farms, Wantley (4 hours). Leave Village Hall at 7.30am. Contact nigel.colgate@btinternet.com or 01273 493037.

Saturday 27th with Paul Cole – Downslink to Betley, riverside to New Inn and back via Hollands Lane (4½ hours). Leave Downslink Car Park by the Railway Tavern at 6.30am. Contact paulcolewildlife@gmail.com or 07841924726.

Sunday 28th with Will Green – Henfield Common, Woodmancote woods, Furners Lane (3½ hours). Leave Village Hall at 8.30am. Contact greengardendesign@hotmail.com or 07710289638.

28th with Mike Russell - Mill stream opposite Woods Mill, Downslink to Streatham Bridge, back via Mill Farm (3½ hours). Leave Woods Mill Car Park

Nigel Colgate

Henfield Festival of Gardens and Arts

We’ve received lots of applications and hope to have at least 30 gardens on show over the weekend of Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th June. We do still have room for local artists and musicians to take part so if you fancy joining in and playing or displaying your work in one of the gardens please do contact us via our website. We are currently collating the famous blue booklet, but if you want to get ahead with the news then our website is the place to do it at www.henfieldgardensandarts.net .

We hope to see lots of Henfield residents out and about over the weekend supporting this wonderful community event that raises money for charity.

Suzanne Fisher, Chairperson of the Organising Committee

in addition Kenneth’s other work will be available to be taken away for a donation payable directly to the HSCC Building Appeal. Gift Aid forms will be available, which will enhance donations by 25%. This is a very generous gesture by the two artists and the HSCC committee are extremely grateful. It may not be widely known that artists participating in the Festival donate 10% of their profit from sales to support our much-loved local Festival.

Kenneth McIntosh

Art at Red Oaks for the HSCC Building Appeal

Two local artists, Philip Shepherd and Kenneth McIntosh will be exhibiting their paintings and prints at Red Oaks during the Gardens and Arts Festival over the weekend of 10th and 11th June. Each artist is donating an item of work for a ‘tombola’ in support of the Henfield Scout Community Centre (HSCC) Building Appeal, and

BN5 Baby Bunny Trail fun!

At the time of going to print, the Baby Bunny Trail is still in full swing, with over 100 entries received and 23 baby JellyCat bunnies waiting to be won! The competition, supported by 23 Henfield High Street Businesses, has named baby bunnies hidden in the shop window Easter displays. We’ll bring you an article next month detailing the winners with a picture report of the event.

Editor

The new Henfield Scout Community Centre

When you read this, the new building should be totally clad and awaiting the installation of doors, windows and PV solar panels. The windows are costing £2,000 each and if you would like to sponsor one, please contact David.malkin@ henfield-scout-cc.org . Similarly, the external doors costing £4,000 and £2,500 each can be sponsored, so please make contact if you are interested. In all cases, sponsors names will be displayed on a plaque alongside the relevant unit. If you would like to make a donation to the Appeal fund visit https://gofund.me/6e891481 . By July, the building shell should be completed and ready for internal fitting-out. Several companies, many of them local, have already promised to donate skilled labour, materials and funding for the internal fit-out and landscaping,

but more help is needed. Limited companies that donate goods or the services of their employees can normally claim tax relief by deducting the value from their total business profits before paying tax. Speak to your accountant to learn more or visit: www.gov.uk/tax-limited-company-gives-tocharity/donating-money .

Finally, the new building and securely enclosed grounds will be an ideal venue for a pre-school group to use daily, along with smaller clubs and associations. The Centre will also be available at weekends for Jumble sales and quizzes etc. Please contact David Malkin 01273 493843 if you are interested.

Dave Malkin

The Kindersley Trust donation to 1st Henfield Scout Group

Earlier this year 1st Henfield Scout Group were delighted to receive a donation from The Kindersley Trust that enabled them to purchase a number of compasses for our young members to use when hiking. Our Scout Group has grown significantly recently and we would like to say a big thank you for this very kind donation.

Mark Williams, Cub Scout Leader

Blackstone Stoolball Club – This Girl Can!

Ladies, why not come along and try out a unique Sussex outdoor team game, similar to cricket, whereby two teams compete to score the most runs. We are a friendly bunch looking for new players of all ages (18+). No prior experience or knowledge of the game is necessary, anyone can play and it’s a great way to meet new friends, have fun and keep fit.

We play at the Allfield Ground in Blackstone (Woodmancote end of Blackstone Lane) just a few minutes’ drive from Henfield, with acres of space for all the family to enjoy. Playing Tuesday

sussex prairies garden

New Weekly Meat Raffle at South Downs Butchery

The Henfield Scout Building Appeal, with the kind support of South Downs Butchery, has set up a weekly Meat Raffle!

The raffle is drawn once a week and tickets are just £1. All money raised goes to the building of our new Scouts Community Centre. You can pop along to South Downs Butchery to buy your tickets. Thank you for supporting this wonderful cause.

Frazer Pattenden, 1st Henfield Scout Group Chairman

or Thursday evenings May to September, starting at 6.30pm and finished by 8.30-8.45pm. The club provides all equipment to play, you just need trainers and trackies or leggings or shorts. Our Team colour is teal blue t-shirts, but its not compulsory!

Initial taster games are free, with match fees £1 per game and club membership £10 a year which includes insurance cover. We’re part of the Central Sussex Stoolball League and travel to away games at Bolney, Partridge Green, Hurstpierpoint, Lindfield, Horsted Keynes and Ditchling so transport is useful but lift-sharing with other team players is an option. For further information and our fixture list please contact Sonia Halls on soniahalls@googlemail. com or mobile 07968 174 894. For more information on the game visit Stoolball England at www.stoolball.org.uk . Go on, you know you want to!

Sonia Fry

Ukraine Aid Shipment Update

Our most recent Ukraine collection was more than successful in all ways. We had a call from Chair of Hope and Aid Direct to say he couldn’t believe his eyes when the BP guild reached the warehouse and commenced unloading - just to see the amount of boxes and the quality of the delivery was exceptional.

A huge ‘Thank You’ to every volunteer who gave their time over and above as we continued filling boxes right until the van arrived to collect. Also to all the people who donated for all the thought and care that went into their donations. One lady brought her husband’s flying jacket from the last war, and people chose very useful food, clothes and donations which encouraged all the volunteers. Support came from as far afield as Shoreham, Billingshurst, Horsham and Mayesfield. In particular a group of ladies commenced crocheting and knitting blankets when they heard of the collection and completed 21 blankets.

We had the help of our Ukrainian friends from the

village with the packing and a young Ukrainian man was in our loading team. Now we can hand back the hall to Corpus Christi Church. With a huge thanks to all who contributed time, publicity and donations, trucks and hall, and to the B-P Guild volunteers who took the goods to the Hope & Aid depot.

Celia Emmott

Escape and Hunt winners

On the night of the 4 March, teams of Scouts from 1st Henfield Troops took part in the district ‘Escape and Hunt’ competition in the countryside around Hurstpierpoint. All five teams Henfield entered against a teams from all over our Adur district did well in this night hiking competition, but it was with some pride that Henfield Teams took the 3rd, 2nd and 1st spots.

Well done to all that took part, the leaders that supported it and the lancing-based district team for running this great event.”

Mark Williams, Cub Scout Leader

Volunteers needed

We’re in need of more volunteers for our Postnatal drop-in. The drop-in provides a venue where parents with young babies can meet, have their babies weighed and discuss any issues

with our volunteers. We are particularly short of volunteers with a health service background. If you can help, please contact us either by messaging Henfield Bump to Baby Facebook page or emailing henfieldbumptobaby@gmail. com.

We meet on Tuesday mornings between 9.30 and 11.30am at Henfield Leisure Centre. No volunteer is expected to attend every week. You can find out more about us at www. henfieldbumptobabyplus.org.

Sue Willis

Fulking Village Hall for hire

The village hall in Fulking is a pleasant and welcoming space for public meetings, groups, private parties and events of all kinds. Since 2012 it has been run by residents of Fulking to provide a centre for this small community. Once in a poor state of repair, the hall is now cosy and welcoming, with new heaters and windows. Like all public buildings the hall was closed during COVID, but is up and running again, and can be hired inexpensively for meetings and events such as talks, classes, rehearsals, concerts, film shows and parties.

With a main space measuring 12m by 5m, the hall includes a stage, PA system, small but well-equipped kitchen, table tennis table and small garden. Trestle tables, chairs, gazebos, two marquee tents, cutlery and crockery also available for hire. Hall hire rates as follows: BN5 residents: £10 for 1 hour, £18 for 2 hrs, £27 for 3 hours, £35 for 4-6 hours. Commercial use: £10 / hour. To book, contact Carolyn Loveless on cj@ rogerl53.plus.com.

Jen Green

New grant funding available to small Horsham based businesses

Horsham District Council has launched a new round of LEAP small business grant funding for local Horsham District small businesses. If you are hoping to set up a new business, if you want to grow your existing small business, or if you want to take on an apprentice, you can now apply for a share of these grant funds to help

you out. Grants of up to £2,000 will be available for businesses based in Horsham District, with less than 20 full-time employees and who are registered with Companies House or HMRC. Applicants must submit a business plan with a financial forecast as part of their application and are required to match fund the grant by contributing towards 25% of their total project cost with their own investment. For example, if you want to buy some equipment that costs £1,500, you can apply for £1125 from the grant fund, and source the additional £375 needed from your own money or a loan.

Funds are being allocated on a first-come firstserved basis, therefore, businesses interested in applying are encouraged to start working on their business plans now, to prepare for the launch. Once all the funds have been allocated, applications will no longer be accepted – so get your application in quickly.

Allocation of the funding will be determined by a grant appraisal panel at Horsham District Council, with meetings held every four weeks to agree the outcome of applications. Successful applicants will be given a six-month window to deliver their projects from receipt of their grant offer. For more information and deadlines for applying see www. horsham.gov.uk/business/business-funding/leapbusiness-grants.

Ellen Kendrick

Have you placed your breakfast, brunch or afternoon tea order with us? Eat

Horsham Artists Art Trail

This great annual event returns to Henfield on the weekends of 10th -11th and 17th – 18th June, at Ash House, Barrow Hill; a lovely location set against the backdrop of the South Downs.

Textile designer Lyn Fryer is joined by jeweller Alison Crowe, painter Mark Wilson and illustrator Russ Iden.

More information will be available at: www. horshamartists.org.

Alison Crowe

Repair Café Opening

The Henfield Repair Café will be opening from 10am to 12pm on Saturday 20th May 2023 at the Henfield Haven, and thereafter on the third Saturday of every month. So rather than buy new, bring your electric and electronic items (no IT thank you); clothing, leather and jewellery; mechanical and metal items; and bikes for repair. All for just a donation to pay our expenses. Why not come along and see how it works and have a drink with us? Sustainable Henfield will be there to give advice on reducing your carbon footprint, recycling and increasing biodiversity. If you like repairing things, do come and join our band of repairers and be part of this fun monthly event.

Any offers of help or queries contact Mel on 07808 778576, or repairs@ sustainablehenfield2030.org.

Ruth Robotham

The Post House Café HENFIELD

Summer Salads in the Sunshine

Need some colour in your life?

We have lots of delicious lunch options from colourful salads to melting cheesy toasties. Enjoy with a latte or a cheeky glass of wine!

Open seven days a week

Next to The Post office, High Street, Henfield 01273 491040 cafe@posthousecafe.co.uk

Community Transport Sussex wins award

Community Transport Sussex has said it is ‘delighted to have won the award for Community Contribution at the prestigious Gatwick Diamond Business Awards. The event, held in Brighton this month, celebrates the achievements of individual businesses and people across a wide range of categories.

The charity provides transport services and support to the residents & community groups of Mid Sussex, Horsham, Crawley, Adur & Worthing, Chichester and across West Sussex. Those services are aimed at all those people who because of disability, age, mobility problems, financial disadvantage, rural or other isolation factors, find it difficult to access public transport.

Matt Roberts, CEO, said “We are hugely delighted to have received this award. It’s wonderful that a voluntary sector organisation like ours has been recognised for its innovation and delivery by the business community. This award is testament to the work of every one of our colleagues and volunteers. We continue to strive to ensure that no one in our county is disadvantaged by not having access to safe, affordable, accessible transport. This award recognises the vital work we do to bring people and communities together”.

The Awards evening was hosted by the charming comedian Kerry Godliman (pictured with CTS’s Lee Gander and Matt Roberts).

Rachael Pratt

Horsham District Volunteer Awards are back for 2023

Horsham District Council is once again set to recognise and celebrate all the great work that the Horsham District’s volunteers do, as the Horsham District Volunteer Awards return for 2023.

The Volunteer Awards scheme, launched for the first time in 2022, aims to highlight the many amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors of the Horsham District.

The 2023 awards scheme is now open and we would encourage as many of you as possible to nominate your favourite volunteers by 2 May 2023 at 9am.

There are seven different award categories to vote for using our online form at:

www.horsham.gov.uk/volunteerawards2023

1. Biggest heart award

Does someone in your volunteering team always give it their all? Is their heart literally bursting with pride in the work that they do? Are they a brilliant listener and do they go above and beyond to help make the difference?

2. Trustee of the year

Sometimes it’s the quiet ones who are the unsung heroes, quietly leading their charity to fulfil its purposes and potential. Which trustee inspires you?

3. Long service award

Do you have a volunteer on your team who has been volunteering with you so long, that you’re now not sure when they started?! Tell us the story of how they got started volunteering.

4. Outstanding contribution award

Of course, all volunteers make an outstanding contribution, but is there someone in your team who has achieved something utterly extraordinary?

5. Permanent smile award

Volunteers that are there to welcome people with open arms and a smile are worth their weight

www.touringcinema.com

Check our website for updates

Cinema at the Henfield Hall brought to you by ALLELUJAH

www.CineMobile.uk

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

in gold. Is there someone on your team you think should be recognised for lifting morale, celebrating successes, and smiling their way through their volunteering?

6. The volunteer dream team award

There is no “I” in team, and we truly believe you can get anything done so long as you don’t mind who takes the credit. Is your volunteer team the “dream team” – make a nomination and let us help you celebrate their achievements!

7. Young volunteer award

Do you have a committed young volunteer (under 18) who is an inspiration? Do they have a fantastic approach to their volunteering? Are they inspiring others to get involved in volunteering locally?

Who can be nominated?

Anyone can be nominated for one of the volunteer award categories as long as they are a volunteer within a voluntary sector organisation in the Horsham District and have not already won an award in this scheme. There will be an awards evening at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens during Volunteers Week on Wednesday 7 June 2023. All award winners will be invited to attend.

For media queries press@horsham.gov.uk

Heather Pepper

Sussex Pathfinders Rambling Club

This is an independent club whose members share a common interest in walking in the Sussex countryside and sometimes beyond.

Throughout the year there is normally a half day walk of 5-6 miles on Saturday, and a full day walk of 9-11 miles on Sunday. If this appeals to you, just turn up on a walk and introduce yourself to the group leader.

You should wear suitable clothing and footwear for the season. For an all-day walk bring a packed lunch, though there will often be an opportunity to get a drink at lunch time. Please note that dogs, other than guide dogs, are not permitted on the club’s walks.

All our forthcoming walks can be viewed at https://sussexpathfinders.org.uk

Diann Clarke

ADIEMUS

Saturday 13 May, 2023

@ 7.30pm

Steyning Centre

Fletchers Croft

BN44 3XZ

Cantatrice & ladies of the Kaleidoscope Singers

String Ensemble & percussion

Conductors: Zoe Peate & Rob Campkin

Accompanist: Gary Prior with music by Piazzolla, Caplet, Gershwin, Quartel

Tickets £15 under 18yrs free Box Office: 07880 855960

www.cantatrice.co.uk

Karl Jenkins

HENFIELD goes to the vote on Thursday 4 May

There will be a full Horsham District Council election on Thursday 4 May .this year Henfield Parish Council is uncontested so there is no election for Parish Councillors. If you are registered to vote in person, you will be required to show an approved form of photo identity (ID) at the polling station.

The most commonly used photo ID include:

z Passport issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, a British Overseas Territory, an European Economic Area state or a Commonwealth country

z Photographic driver’s licence issued by the UK, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or an European Economic Area state (including provisional)

z European Economic Area ID Card

z UK Biometric Residence Permit

z An identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (PASS card)*

z A Blue Badge

z A concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government or local authority (For example West Sussex County Council Bus Pass; Disabled Person’s Bus Pass, Welsh or Northern Ireland travel card.)

Photo ID will still be accepted even where they have expired, provided that the photograph remains a good likeness of the elector. All documents must be original.

We asked all the Henfield candidates to tell us a little about themselves and their priorities, those who wished to be included are featured here. Please use your democratic vote.

Sarah Butler

Local candidates standing in the Henfield Ward

In addition our local community relies on fabulous voluntary work supporting our youth, parent & toddler groups, and local food banks. As your local councillor I will work to provide better support from the council for these vital activities. I will look, listen, act and report back to the community.”

Fiona AYRES

Labour Party Candidate

“Being the owner of Stokes Newsagents in Henfield High Street I speak to residents every day and they keep me informed about what practical help and support they need, alongside what works for the community. As a previous councillor and with my business experience, I have the skills to know how to push the council to deliver practical results to improve services.

If elected I plan to represent the people of Henfield in the local district issues that are important to them. In particular, there needs to be a planning Local Plan policy in place to provide affordable housing for younger residents and those in need. We need a sustainable solution in terms of where they are built that meets local needs and protects our environment.

Malcolm EASTWOOD Independent Candidate

“If you don’t believe that party politics should dictate what happens in local government please vote for me as your Independent District Councillor. You need a candidate who will represent you and your interests. I am the right choice because:

z Knowledge of Henfield: I have lived in Henfield for 28 years - what happens in our community is as important to me as it is to you. I understand the village’s needs, the people who live here and you can trust me to always put our community first.

z Working for Henfield: I have been Chairman of Henfield Parish Council for the last 6 years. I know how both Henfield and Local Government work which is hugely important for a District Councillor.

z Delivering for Henfield: My track record includes successfully fighting-off rogue developers and winning significant funds to deliver projects for all of our community. Henfield has a long tradition of electing an Independent District Councillor. I want to continue Mike Morgan’s work but I can only do it with your support and your vote.”

Josh POTTS Conservative Party Candidate

“As a local farmer I am proud and fortunate to call Henfield home. It is a special place to live. It has been a challenging time for all not least given the impact of Covid 19 and the cost of living crisis but representing Henfield as Horsham District Councillor and as Cabinet member for the Environment and Rural Affairs has been a great privilege and incredibly rewarding. My three priorities are to:

z protect our rural community by guarding against unsustainable housing numbers and fighting for the right homes in the right places.

z protect and enhance our environment by reducing our carbon emissions and improving biodiversity.

Gill PERRY Green Party Candidate

“It’s an honour to have been selected to stand for the Henfield Ward as your Green Party Candidate. I’ve lived in Henfield for six years and in Sussex for over 35 years. I love it here and I am deeply committed to working with and for our Henfield community. A retired Headteacher, I’ve been a Henfield Parish Councillor since 2018 and chair the Recreation and Open Spaces Committee. I’m also a representative on Henfield Community Partnership.

It would be great if Henfield’s Community had a Green to represent our village at Horsham District Council, when clearly Green issues are so close to many hearts around here. If elected as your Henfield ward councillor on Horsham District Council my ongoing priority will be to speak up at Horsham Council for residents and I will:

z Work hard for residents all-year round

z Make sure Henfield is not ignored

z Speak up against over-development.

It’s very exciting that our Green team is growing rapidly. It would be a delight to work together at Council to protect what matters most to us all.”

z support residents and local businesses through the cost of living crisis.

Some notable achievements include: successfully opposed a new market town on Henfield’s doorstep and other speculative development; launched the Wilder Horsham District Initiative; the Community Climate Fund for groups to reduce carbon levels locally; the Rural Prosperity Fund which supports the development and growth of rural businesses.”

Other candidates

Jon DANE & Robert MOHAMED Liberal Democrat Party Sian LEAVER Green Party Candidate

HENFIELD £635,000

2/3 bedroom detached bungalow in popular location. Walking distance of village high street. Off road parking, attached garage and pretty landscaped rear garden. Vacant possession.

EPC Rating: C

Council Tax Band: E

1st for sales and lettings in Henfield

HENFIELD £440,000

Three bedroom semi detached house walking distance to primary school, high street and other amenities. Carport, good size rear garden. No onward chain.

EPC Rating: C

Council Tax Band: D

Substantial detached five bedroom family home in sought after close, walking distance to village high street. Good size garden and ample parking. Vacant possession.

EPC Rating: D

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Henfield Football Club is once again set for a weekend of family fun and football which will take place on the Kingsfield on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st May. The matches will start at 9:30am on both days, with games aiming to finish at 5pm.

As well as being able to watch all the exciting football action that’ll be taking place on the Kingsfield and St Peter’s CofE primary school field, tournament visitors will have plenty of other attractions to keep them entertained including an inflatable area with slide, bouncy castle and rodeo, as well as a daily raffle. There’ll also be plenty of refreshment options available including Barista coffee, bar, ice cream van, burger van, crepe van and a sweet and cake stall.

Tournament director Joe Warner said: “The number of clubs signing up for the tournament has been unprecedented. There is so much more excitement for it this year as we’ve invited more teams to join in. The Henfield players are especially excited as it’s their home tournament.”

This year’s tournament, whose headline sponsor is Pagoda Security, will see a whopping 196 youth teams taking part from 55 different clubs from all across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire. It will feature matches across 10 age groups ranging from under 6’s up to under 15’s. Henfield football club will be strongly represented in the tournament with both boys’ and girls’ teams across all age groups.

The club warmly welcomes everyone to come along and enjoy the football action and great atmosphere of the event but parking is very limited. So if you live locally you are advised to walk to the Kingsfield if possible.

Sam Witherden, Henfield FC co-chair said: “We are thrilled to bring the tournament back this year, an event which we’ve been planning since we closed the door on last years event!

© Duncan Allen

We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our wonderful football club and to our beautiful village over the tournament weekend”

He added: “We are delighted to have had such brilliant support from local businesses who are helping to sponsor each age groups trophies and medals, which will mean so much to the players. The club is also very grateful to Henfield Parish Council, Henfield Leisure Centre, Henfield Medical Centre, and of course our main sponsor Pagoda Security for their support over the tournament weekend.

Henfield FC have over 200 youth players registered and they played over 130 youth games over the season whilst their amazing voluntary managers and coaches collectively gave over 670 hours of football training. Many of the youth teams had a great season and some are ending on a real high - the Under 13 boys (managed by Steff Thomas) won their HYD ‘B league!

If you want more information about the tournament please contact henfieldfcjoe@ gmail.com or follow the club on Facebook and instagram for updates leading up to the event.

© Becky Devlin

© DE Photos

Joe Penfold & Sam Witherden Joint Chairmen, Henfield Football Club

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The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III takes place on Saturday 6 May and with an extra bank holiday gifted to the nation on Monday 8 May, the community has a special long weekend during which to celebrate this happy and historical occasion.

Here are just some of the local events, and some in the wider Horsham District, taking place over the weekend. Do look out for individual notices of street parties in your area too!

St Peters Church Henfield will be live-screening the King’s Coronation in the Church, if you’d like some company as you watch. There will be tea and cake, everyone is welcome. There’s also a live screening at The Capitol theatre in Horsham on Saturday 6 May (which will also include a special feature showing the broadcast of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation from 2 June 1953).

Horsham Town Centre will be hosting a special Majestic Market (also on Sunday 7 May) hosted by Coden Events and Food Rocks. It will be offering a fantastic collection of local produce, a great food and drink offer, and a King Charles Spaniel dog competition!

Church Services. The 9.45am Holy Communion service at St Peters Henfield will be using the material recommended for a Coronation celebration with the choir singing the Coronation Anthem ‘Zadok the Priest’. The 11.15am service at St Giles’ Shermanbury and the 4pm Songs of praise at St Peter’s, Woodmancote will also be special celebratory services.

Henfield Parish Council Children and Young People Committee are organising a Coronation Family Fun Day on the Rothery Field, Nep Town Road, in conjunction with the BP Guild and Henfield Scouts.

From 3-5pm there will be free activities for children including a circus skills workshop, traditional sports day races and craft activities with refreshments and drinks available for the children.

In the evening, the BP Guild will take over providing a BBQ (including vegetarian options), bar and live music into the evening with the Henfield beacon being lit at 9pm. Everyone is welcome and as parking is very limited, please respect the neighbours by walking if possible. In Horsham, the Horsham Street Party springs to life across the town featuring free live music

from 12 noon to 9pm, a host of community stalls, a vintage double decker bus bar and live performances throughout the town including roaming ‘Royal Palace’ guards. Highlights will include the Sussex Band of the Royal British Legion who will be performing in Horsham Park from 2-4pm. Children will be able to make their own royal crowns or colourful windmills at Horsham Museum and Art Gallery where coronation crafts and a free children’s trail will be on offer.

The Post House Café will be hosting a Coronation ‘Garden Party’ on both Sunday 7th and Monday 8th May and invite you to celebrate with them. They will be serving traditional English food such as bacon and sausage baps, quiche and salad, Coronation chicken sandwiches, and sausage rolls, etc. Of course it wouldn’t be a garden party without jugs of Pimm’s, bottles of beer, some crisp white wine or just a classic cup of tea!

Bank Holiday Monday is all about The Big Help Out, encouraging people to volunteer in their local communities. For those of you with some time to spare, maybe this will be an opportunity

to reflect on how you can volunteer with one of our many wonderful local community groups. Henfield Scouts, with the support of SH2030, will be getting involved in community activities such as wildflower planting, weeding, mulching and litter picking in the local environment, something which they plan to continue doing throughout the Coronation year!

Throughout the weekend keep an eye out for special Coronation themed window displays in shops and businesses up and down the Henfield High Street organised by the Henfield Community Partnership. You can vote for your favourite window.

Relish Café will be preparing Afternoon Teas fit or a King (and Queen consort) to enjoy in the café, at home or at your very own street party! With homemade scones, jam and clotted cream plus cake and delicious sandwiches with a sprinkling of summer fruits. They can also help with the catering if you are hosting a party at home – from home-made quiches, to sausage rolls and cakes to pavlovas, just give them a call.

Sarah Butler

Richard Bates, Henfield resident and consultant solicitor at Cognitive Law in Brighton, discusses new duties imposed on Court of Protection Deputies by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG)..

The Court of Protection is a specialist Court overseeing matters concerning people (known as ‘P’) lacking capacity, either because of their age or due to mental impairment. The OPG is a government body that polices the activities of Deputies. Finally, a deputy is a person appointed by the Court to make decisions on behalf of that person. A deputyship is a much more expensive and accountable alternative to having an attorney.

If you are deputy, or applying to be one, you will need to meet the obligations of the new Deputy Standards. These are long and exhaustive, but the most important ones are as follows:-

1. Arranging Security – A Security Bond is an annual insurance policy to a value set by the Court which is designed to cover loss due to the Deputy’s negligence. It needs to be regularly reviewed and kept at an appropriate level of cover.

2. Best Interest Decisions – Deputies must include P in decision-making, where possible, and keep appropriate records.

3. Interactions – you must visit P as much as is necessary, but at least once per year.

4. Financial Management – you must manage P’s finances and property properly, e.g. applying for eligible benefits and keeping them under review, keeping P’s funds separate, paying all bills, keeping documentation, considering whether specialist advice is required and acting in P’s best interests to optimise their assets.

You are also responsible for submitting accounts and updates annually, or upon request, and ensuring annual supervision fees are paid on time.

5. Health and Welfare Decisions – you must provide explanations for any decisions made regarding P’s healthcare and where they should live. Remember that only the Court can make decisions regarding deprivations of P’s liberty.

6. Additional Obligations – you must notify the OPG about police investigations or civil proceedings that relate to either P or the Deputy and let OPG know if you have any concerns about another deputy.

Awareness of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 Code of Practice is compulsory. Deputies are not expected to be legal experts, but you must have enough understanding of the law to perform their role.

As you will have gathered, being a Deputy is an extremely responsible job. If you do not act appropriately, you may be removed by the Court and may even be committing acts of abuse, perhaps without even realising.

If you need assistance with your duties, or if a power of attorney sounds much more appealing, please get in touch on 01273 284012 or richard.bates@cognitivelaw.co.uk.

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It’s ‘Happening in Henfield’ Time to Get Involved - Join in or Volunteer

Happening in Henfield

Henfield Community Partnership is joining forces with Horsham District Council Voluntary Sector Support in organising an event to highlight the range of activities and interests on offer by our local voluntary organisations, so Save the Date – Saturday 24th June at the Henfield Hall. The last time a similar event was held in Henfield was in April 2018 so we feel it is high time we held another.

If you’re looking to join or volunteer with one of Henfield’s local organisations or charities, there is a multitude to choose from, including sport, drama, music, hobbies, environment, services, children, youth and many more.

As part of the Coronation celebrations, a campaign “The Big Help Out”, which showcases how volunteering benefits both communities and the people who take part, is being launched on Monday 8 May, during Coronation Weekend. In running this event, Henfield will be playing its part in supporting the campaign whilst at the same time giving our community the opportunity to find out what’s available to Get Involved with locally, whether it’s joining as a member or a volunteer.

If you’re new to the area, this is your chance to see what interests you and discover the vibrant

place we live in. You may have lived here a while but want to try something new, make new friends or support your community. No one needs to be bored! Getting involved is rewarding and it also improves one’s wellbeing.

Happening in Henfield is on Saturday 24th June from 10.30 to 14.30 at The Henfield Hall and admission is free. We have over 60 organisations who are getting excited to show prospective members the many activities on offer, highlight their needs in terms of volunteers and be available to answer any questions. Whilst browsing, you can sample the delicious refreshments being sold by one of our voluntary organisations. Everyone is welcome, so why not come along and explore the local opportunities! The Henfield Hall is all on one level and so offers easy access. There is a car park opposite and another next to the library.

If you are part of a voluntary organisation interested in participating but haven’t already registered, there may still be a space available. Email henfieldcp.info@gmail.com to check. If all tables have been taken, we will be happy to include your details in our programme.

Sue Willis

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Russia is definitely not going to invade Ukraine...

I confidently told a group of friends at a party in late February 2022. As I pulled a sled across the ancient frozen Lake Baikal in the Russian territory of Siberia, close to the Mongolian Border, Putin’s tanks were rolling into the outskirts of Kyiv. I got that rather wrong then! My team and I extricated ourselves from Russia in the second week of the war with a flight from Moscow to London via Dubai at ten times the cost of my original cancelled flight.

Meanwhile, a great friend of mine living in the highlands of Scotland called David Fox-Pitt (who

is a Trustee of the Scottish charity Siobhan’s Trust) had driven out to Poland with a small truck load of equipment, supplies and a pizza making machine. After a few days seeing my family and stocking up on supplies at Budgen’s in Henfield, I flew out to join David at Medyka on the Polish / Ukraine border offering help and support to thousands of refugees fleeing the conflict. During the day we would provide hot drinks, food, blankets, sleeping bags and medical equipment as required. At night I would lead a group of volunteers with shopping trolleys stuffed to the

brim with supplies and hand them over to local Ukrainian’s desperate for the food and equipment in towns under siege in the North, East and South. After a week, I contracted Covid and food poisoning simultaneously so was pleased to get back home to recover.

As the war rages on into it’s second year, I decided I could not stand back and watch the atrocity of this unlawful invasion of a sovereign country and decided to go back to help the Ukrainians for a few weeks in March 2023. By this stage, the charity had purchased a number of small lorries and had converted them into pizza delivery vehicles. Each day teams of volunteers would drive into a town square or village green and hand out donated pizzas. I flew again to Krakow, caught a train to the bus station, took a coach to Lviv and met up with David and his team. He gave me the keys to his brand new heavy goods truck with six pizza ovens called the Sedburgh Wolf, donated by the Cumbrian school and it’s community. My colleagues Paul Clarke and Mark Cropley joined me as we drove 1,000 km across to Mykolaiv in the south east where we joined forces with other volunteers from

Zimbabwe, Canada, America and some local Ukrainians.

Every day we would drive the truck to a new location, fire up the ovens and serve 3,500 pizzas to families of whom up to 50% were displaced and living in basement shelters. One day we were 22 miles from the front line, within artillery range in a recently re-captured Ukrainian village. But we were offering more than just a hot pizza. As air raid sirens wailed, electricity supplies failed and the odd ‘crump’ of an artillery shell would explode a few miles away, we were there shoulder to shoulder with ordinary parents and children struggling to cope with their new reality nightmare. There was a genuine appreciation that they had not been forgotten and that volunteers from around the world were amongst them, offering support, hope and a hot pizza. ‘Slava Ukraine!’

Neil Laughton, BN5 resident

It costs £1 to give a hot pizza to a hungry child in SE Ukraine. If anyone would like to make a donation, please send it to siobhanstrust.uk or to volunteer, email me, neil@neillaughton.com

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A Midsummer Night’s Dream...

Henfield Theatre Company are excited to announce that their next summer production, will be an open-air production of Shakespeare’s best loved comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, in The Sussex Prairie Garden, Wheatsheaf Road, Henfield.

A hilarious play of order and disorder, reality and appearance, and love and marriage. Set in Athens on a Midsummer night, four young lovers find themselves wrapped in the dream-like arms of an enchanted forest where sprites lurk and fairies rule. While the Fairy King and Queen bicker, their paths are crossed by Bottom, Quince and their workmates rehearsing a play within a play. Chief mischief-maker Puck is on hand to ensure that the course of true love is anything but smooth and that everything comes right in the end!

Directed by Peter Ingledew, the cast and crew will be aiming to provide you with an evening of love, magic, chaos and fun in an enchanted setting. The Sussex Prairie Garden hosts many artistic and cultural events throughout the year,

and Henfield Theatre Company is honoured to be the first amateur theatre company to have the opportunity of presenting a production in this beautiful setting. Our sincere thanks to Paul and Pauline McBride for this wonderful opportunity and for allowing us into their Garden.

Kindly sponsored by Andy Blunden Ceramic Wall & Floor Tilers Ltd, performances are on 7th, 8th and 9th July at 7.30pm. Tickets costing £17.50 per person are now on sale via www. henfieldtheatrecompany.com, and at Steven’s Estate Agents in Henfield High Street. The ticket price also gives you entry to the gardens from 6pm (normal single day entry fee to the gardens is £10).

Why not bring a picnic and have time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings? Tea, coffee, cake and ice-cream will be available and there will be numbered seating provided for the performances. And don’t forget a cushion and a torch!

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Photographs © Mandy Ainsworth

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The new VAT penalty regime

Since 1 January, a new VAT filing and payment penalty system has been introduced. This involves the introduction of two separate penalties: one for late submission of VAT returns, and the other for late payment of VAT liabilities. The new system is based on penalty points.

Late filing of VAT returns

The new penalty points system for late VAT returns is intended to be less punitive when you as a taxpayer miss the occasional deadline. HMRC will allocate you one point each time you miss a VAT return filing deadline. Like driving licence points, points for late returns will expire (with conditions) after two years unless you reach the penalty thresholds.

When you have accrued the relevant number of points (see table below), a £200 penalty will be charged. All subsequent missed filing deadlines will also trigger a penalty.

Points for penalties

A penalty will be charged when your total equals these thresholds:

Annual VAT returns

Quarterly returns

Monthly returns

2 points

4 points

5 points

Resetting the points clock after a penalty

The penalty points that you accumulate will not automatically expire as normal once you have triggered a penalty. Instead, to reset the clock, you have to meet a longer test of good VAT filing compliance (i.e. submitting everything on time by the due date) for a specified period and submitting any outstanding returns due in the prior 24 months. The good compliance period depends on your VAT return cycle: it will be 24 months for organisations filing annual returns, 12 months for quarterly returns and 6 months for monthly filings.

Late payment of VAT

The new penalty system applies in two stages: fixed penalties and daily penalties. Essentially, the later the payment, the higher the rate of penalty charged. Payments that are up to 15 days late (i.e. 15 days from the specified payment deadline) will not trigger a penalty.

Payments that are between 16 and 30 days late

will trigger a penalty of 2% (that is, of the amount outstanding as unpaid at day 15).

Payments that are 31 days late or more will trigger a 2% penalty of the amount outstanding at day 15, plus an additional 2% penalty, which is based on the amount outstanding at day 30 (i.e. a total of 4% if you have paid nothing).

From day 31, there will also be an additional daily penalty levied (calculated at 4% a year) on the amount outstanding.

Interest

Interest on overdue tax will continue to be calculated and charged from the due date. This will be at the Bank of England base rate plus 2.5%, and this will continue to accrue even where a time-to-pay arrangement has been agreed with HMRC. Where a business has overpaid tax, interest on overpaid tax being repaid will be at Bank of England base rate less 1%.

Avoiding a penalty

The key way to avoid these new penalties is to file VAT returns and pay VAT liabilities on time.

Inability to pay

If you cannot pay your VAT liabilities, it is advisable to file your VAT return on time and contact HMRC to negotiate a time-to-pay agreement. If an instalment payment plan is agreed and put in place, the standard interest charges on late payments are frozen from that day and will not be enforced if you stick to the payment plan.

Light-touch approach

We understand that this first year, HMRC will apply a light touch when it comes to the first phase of penalties. This means that, where payment is made between 16 and 30 days after the due date, HMRC may waive the initial 2% penalty where you are seen to be doing your best to comply. This definition is not yet clear.

Late payment penalties

0-15

If you pay in full or arrange a payment plan on or between days 0 and 15

First Penalty 16-30 inclusive If you pay in full, arrange a payment plan or part-pay on or up to day 30

First Penalty 31 plus If you pay in full or arrange a payment plan on or after day 31

Second penalty 31 plus Until you pay in full or arrange a payment plan

For further help and guidance, please contact

Paul Samrah partner at Moore Kingston Smith 0204 582 1730 or psamrah@mks.co.uk

No late payment penalty charged

First penalty calculated at 2% of what was outstanding at day 15

First penalty calculated at 2% of what was outstanding at day 15 plus 2% of what is still outstanding at day 30

A second penalty is calculated at a daily rate of 4% a year for the duration of outstanding balance and is calculated when the outstanding amount is paid