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BERSTED IN FOCUS

The Independent Local Directory of Businesses NORTH AND SOUTH BERSTED Delivered FREE to over 6,000 homes February 2024

Bersted in Focus

Ashton Domiciliary Care Our family caring for yours! Reliable help with indoor and outdoor tasks, a caring ear, a friendly familiar face and making a cup of tea so you can put your feet up - that’s what we do. Our dedicated team are trained to support mental wellbeing and to help you access support groups in your community.

FREE

initial face-to-face assessment

Our Services • Personal Care: Showering, Bathing, Toileting Needs, Oral Mouth Care, Hair Care, Foot Care, Incontinence Care. • Outreach: Shopping Trips, Help with Transport when Attending Classes, Support Getting to Appointments, Accompanying to Lunch and Dinners. • Preparation: Food Preparation, Cooking, Shopping, Monitoring, Food Rotation, Ordering Meals. • Companionship: Social Calls, Help and Hobbies, Stimulating Mental Health Activities, Pet Care. • Domestic: Cleaning, Washing Up, Laundry, Bed Change, Taking the Bins Out. • Everything Else: Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Medication Management, Arranging Appointments, Collecting Prescriptions, Short Term Respite Care.

www.ashtondomiciliarycare.com Email: domiciliarycare@ashtoncare.co.uk Home carers who care: call 01243 860074 for free advice! To contact BERSTED IN FOCUS please email: office@infocusmagazines.co.uk

Bersted in Focus

Wills and Probate

East Wittering - Selsey - Chichester - Bognor Regis

Our experienced Wills and probate solicitors deal with a full range of issues relating to estate planning, passing on assets to the next generation and the finalisation of affairs after death. At SMR Solicitors, we can help you ensure that you have the right Will in place to protect your estate and that your finances are dealt with in the most tax-efficient way possible. We can also represent you if you have been given the task of winding up someone’s estate after their death, making sure that issues are dealt with effectively and without delay. Our Wills and probate team have in-depth experience in dealing with estate, tax and trust law, including complex matters and high net worth estates.

Our Wills and probate services include the following: • Wills and estate planning advice, including Inheritance Tax advice • Drafting your Will • Dealing with the execution of your Will • Obtaining a Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration • Represent an estate executor or administrator in dealing with an estate administration • Arranging for valuation of the deceased’s assets • Calculation and payment of Inheritance Tax and other debts • Clearing and selling the deceased’s property and other assets • Preparation of detailed estate accounts • Distribution of the deceased’s estate in accordance with their Will or the Rules of Intestacy We provide a bespoke service and always work proactively to avoid unnecessary delays. We will stay in close touch with you throughout, keeping you updated and making sure we are available to answer any questions you may have. We represent clients across West Sussex, providing advice and guidance in all aspects of Wills and estate administration. We specialise in dealing with complicated estates and providing personalised tax advice. We provide flexible funding arrangements to suit your needs, including fixed fees for some work.

For further information, speak to one of our experts

East Wittering Office 1 Shore Road East Wittering West Sussex PO20 8DY t. 01243 671782

Selsey Office 87 High Street Selsey West Sussex PO20 0QW t. 01243 602832

www.smrsolicitors.co.uk | office@smrsolicitors.co.uk

Bognor Regis Office 1 The Precinct West Meads West Sussex PO21 5SB t. 01243 860323

Chichester Office 50 Westgate Chichester West Sussex PO19 3HE t. 01243 780211

Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority ID:630293 SMR Solicitors Limited is registered in England & Wales under registration number 10200601

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Bersted in Focus

Dear All, I hope your 2024 has got off to a good start. February is the month of love BERSTED IN FOCUS and if you are feeling financially able to give a little Valentine’s love to one of our many local businesses, I know it would be much appreciated. Buying a romantic meal out at one of our wonderful pubs, cafes, restaurants or hotels or a special gift from one of our retailers really makes a difference to our small businesses. Thank you for your generosity and support last year to help the local community. The Bognor Hotham Rotary Club have asked me to thank their volunteers who stepped FELPHAM IN FOCUS up last year, with a special thank you to all those who came to see Santa on his float and gave most generously raising the fantastic sum of £1,236. These funds will go to help all those most in need locally. Please do send me any article ideas you would like to see or write in the magazine and any photos you would like to share. This is a community magazine and I love to share your stories and talents. Do mention In Focus magazines if you reply to one of our adverts and a huge thank you for reading the magazine and all your kind feedback. VILLAGES IN FOCUS Keep it coming! Best wishes for February, Kate Copies of Bersted in Focus are available to collect from Durlston Drive Post Office, 4 Durlston Parade, Bognor Regis, PO22 9DJ. office@infocusmagazines.co.uk Tel: 07729682245 www.infocusmagazines.co.uk The Independent Local Directory of Businesses NORTH AND SOUTH BERSTED Delivered FREE to over 6,000 homes February 2024

The Independent Local Directory of Businesses FELPHAM Delivered FREE to over 6,000 homes February 2024

The Independent Local Directory of Businesses

MIDDLETON, ELMER, YAPTON AND BARNHAM Delivered FREE to over 5,600 homes February 2024

MARCH ISSUE DEADLINE – WEDNESDAY 7 FEBRUARY

Your local MOT Service & Repair Centre Servicing, repairs and maintenance on all makes of cars & vans Breakdown & Accident Recovery Air Conditioning Service, Repairs & Re-gas LOCAL COLLECTIONS*

2 Chichester Road, Bognor Regis PO21 2XE Email: enquiries@nlautos.co.uk www.nlautos.co.uk All advertisements are printed in good faith, however Bersted in Focus cannot take responsibility for the content of the adverts or the services provided by the advertisers. Opinions and views expressed in articles are not necessarily held by In Focus Magazines. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

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LEARNING IN EVERY SENSE BY MARTIN BARKER, HEADMASTER OF WESTBOURNE HOUSE SCHOOL We’ve got exciting opportunities ahead that I wanted to share with you. Firstly, our Open Week is packed full of events that you can come to – a great way to get to know the school – as well as giving you a chance to take a tour at a time that works for you. Whether you’d be interested in coming to our Toddler Stay and Play to get a feel for our nursery or you would like to learn how maths is taught these days, it would be great to see you. Secondly, you can now apply now for academic or music scholarships, (deadlines 23 Feb and 1 March respectively). We want to open up the Westbourne House School educational experience to as many children as we can and applicants can also apply for means-tested bursaries to help with fees. At Westbourne House, we develop the character, dreams and potential of each child. How? The children experience so much, including awe-inspiring science experiments, kayaking on our lake and performing in a musical – and during this process they discover a great deal about themselves: What do they love to do? Can they persevere when things get tough? We work with each child and give them the attention they need to build confidence and a vast range of skills and, ultimately, to thrive now and in the future. www.westbournehouse.org/visit – for the Open Week www.westbournehouse.org/scholarships – Academic & Music Scholarships All questions welcome, tel 01243 782739

THOUGHTFUL VALENTINE GIFT IDEAS BY SARAH DAVEY

Out of cash? Chocolate too boring? We’ve got Valentine’s Day covered. • Create a ‘Mixtape’ – I fondly recall making mixtapes for my boyfriend during my sixth form years. These days, I create similar playlists for my husband using Spotify! Music often conveys emotions we struggle to articulate, and crafting a mixtape is a heartfelt way to show your partner your affection. Select songs that evoke shared memories. A Spotify playlist does the job, but I did go for extra Brownie points one year when I sourced a Sony Walkman and real cassettes. • Reenact Your First Date – Recreating your initial date is a personalized and meaningful Valentine’s Day idea. The specifics will depend on your original date, whether it was a simple movie and dinner or something as extravagant as a trip to Paris. Recreate the experience with as much detail as possible or go for something that evokes the vibe of the original. Our first date was bowling followed by a Chinese meal. A few years ago, we recreated this by playing Wii Bowling and ordering a Chinese Takeaway. It was fun! If you went to the cinema, find the film on Prime or Netflix and order in the popcorn. Props to my son who took his fiancé to an aquarium for their first date, and last year presented her with a novelty illuminated ‘fantasy’ fishtank complete with jellyfish! • Enjoy a Spa Day – Book a couples spa day, or if finances are tight, create your own with a bubble bath, face masks, a manicure and pedicure set, and a glass of prosecco. Light the candles, put the music on low and relax together. Happy Valentine’s Day!

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LOCAL HISTORY BY SYLVIA ENDACOTT

A 1930s view shows The Carlton Hotel on the left. The Bognor Residences & Hotel Company with Lord William Pitt Lennox as its Chairman floated a Company to build a crescent with a hotel covering the land from Lennox Street to York Road. Eventually the foundation stone of this Cotswold Terrace was laid on 8 July 1880, following this ceremony a company of eighty had lunch in a marquee on the ground. Lord Lennox recalled his earlier days in Bognor, having been born in 1799 he could remember a hotel being washed away by the sea. He also recalled strolling along the sands with Princess Charlotte. It was originally intended to construct this full crescent of 31 homes with a proposed 600ft frontage, however, when it was discovered that the ground was not stable enough for a construction of the size planned, work ceased, thus just this one section was built. One family who stayed at The Carlton in 1945 was The Duchess of Kent, with their children the then Duke of York, Princess Alexandra and Prince Michael staying for weekends at the Carlton Hotel, with their French governess. In 1909 approximately two hotels were built alongside the Carlton; namely The Beaulieu and Beaulieu Downs Hotel designed in a Dutch style, and these were to form part of the historic view of the seafront. In 1965 these two were again in the news when national newspapers were extolling the fact that here in Bognor Regis “Britain’s first teenage hotel” would be opening soon.

ARUN & CHICHESTER (AIR) ENTHUSIASTS SOCIETY

AirACES www.airaces.org.uk Patrons – Sqn Ldr Richard (Dick) Kharegat RAF (Retd) – ex Vulcan, Victor, B52 Pilot Sqn Ldr Rod Dean RAF (Ret’d) – ex Hawker Hunter Pilot and Display Pilot Monday 26 February - 1845 for 1930 hrs ‘The History of Martin Baker, its ejection seats and the lives they saved’ Presented by Mr Jeremy Mudford

NEW VENUE - BOXGROVE VILLAGE HALL, THE STREET, BOXGROVE PO18 0EE The Martin Baker story centres around the life of Sir James Martin. Jimmy was born at the end of the 19th Century, the only son of a working farmer in Northern Ireland. He had little formal education but through his own hard work and single minded dedication, he became the creator of a unique industry, totally committed to saving the lives of pilots flying stricken aircraft. He was the inventor of the Martin Baker ejection seat, which, since its introduction in the late 1940s has saved over 7000 lives. In the second half of the evening there will be a few short accounts of people who have been saved by a Martin Baker ejection seat and hence have become members of the ‘Caterpillar Club’. Among these will be accounts of the lives saved including that of Jeremy Mudford himself, Capt. Eric (Winkle) Brown, ex Red Arrow Pilot – Mike Ling, Flt Lt Johnny Evans, W. Officer Henry Ramsden and Ian Maclean. It promises to be a fascinating evening including some first-hand accounts. NEW VENUE – Boxgrove Village Hall, The Street, Boxgrove, PO18 0EE 6.45pm for 7.30pm start. Members £5, Non-members £10 and under 16s FREE. Doors open at 6.45pm no pre-booking, no reserved seating. For further information about AirACES, please see www.airaces.org.uk, or call David Batcock on 01243 823007.

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Bersted in Focus

Welcome to Arundel Clocks 01243 585059 gary@arundelclocks.com I have been restoring, repairing, servicing and selling clocks for the last 25 years. Arundel Clocks is based in the heart of Elmer Sands, West Sussex serving surrounding areas. We are happy to undertake any work from a service to a major strip down and re‐build or restoration. I always give a guaranteed price (with no hidden costs) and an estimated time for completion of the work undertaken, all repairs are backed up with a back to base twelve month guarantee.

10% Discount for OAPs

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A FAMILY TRADITION Parker’s Vehicle Services, in Arun Business Park, Bognor, has been fixing cars since 1993 when Andrew Parker set it up. Just over six years ago, Andy retired, and one of his staff, Eden Owens, took charge. It’s still very much a family run business, with Eden’s wife, Victoria who has a background in business and marketing very much part of the running of the business. Not forgetting their two young sons, Hugo and Harrison, plus Dexter, the much-loved garage dog and a firm favourite with most of the customers! Car knowledge runs in Victoria’s family – her grandparents and uncle and aunt had their own garages. She says: “Over the years we have made a few Victoria, Eden and Hugo. changes, like online booking and MOT reminders, but what hasn’t changed is the solid relationships with customers, many of whom have been with us as their trusted garage for years.” “All the staff have also remained the same, including Mark and Alex who have been with the company for as long as 17 years. We now have two more members of staff including my nephew, Oliver and William who is doing his apprenticeship at Chichester College.” Parker’s is all about good, old-fashioned customer service. They’re female-friendly, use quality parts, and take the time to explain things. Beyond business, they’re big on supporting the community, from local charities to Children’s Clubs. Recently, they even sent pizzas to all three childrens’ wards at Chichester Hospital as part of the Sophie’s Legacy appeal. They’re open to everyone – check out their services on the advert. Parker’s is more than a repair garage; it’s a friendly, trusted place where you’re always welcome. Come on by and be part of the Parker’s Vehicle Services family where customers really do matter.

WINTER ENERGY EFFICIENCY CAMPAIGN

ARUN AND CHICHESTER CITIZENS ADVICE

We know that living in a cold or damp home can have serious negative consequences for both your physical and mental health. This is why, at Arun and Chichester Citizens Advice, we are launching a new Winter Energy Efficiency Campaign to help tackle fuel poverty by making sure that everyone in West Sussex has access to free energy efficiency advice this winter. Our energy service is completely free of charge, and we are here to help with any energy query you might have. Our energy advisers are available Monday to Friday to help keep you warm over the coming months and offer advice on issues such as: • Energy bill payments • Taking action with energy debt • Switching suppliers • Signing up for new and existing grants • Making your home more energy-efficient • Assisting with home improvements • Tips on how to keep warm this winter. We are passionate in our goal to tackle fuel poverty and believe that no one should have to choose between eating and heating or suffer health implications due to the ongoing energy crisis. Our aim is to offer our services to as many people as possible, to ensure that anyone who wants or needs energy advice this winter can access it. To get free energy efficiency advice, call us on freephone 0800 145 6879, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, email us at energy@arunchichestercab.org.uk or request a video appointment. In Arun and Chichester, we may be able to offer a home visit but please call the team in the first instance.

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Bersted in Focus

BOOK IN

TODAY! With over 30 years of experience, Parker’s Vehicle Services is your local, independent, family-run garage, providing MOT testing, servicing, and repairs for our customers in Bognor Regis and the surrounding areas. As a fully approved and authorised MOT garage, you can always trust our expertise. We work on all makes and models of cars, vans and light commercial vehicles. We will look after your vehicle as if it was one of our own.

MOT SERVICE REPAIRS Your local, family-run garage since 1993 RATED 5 STARS*

Based on 52 Facebook reviews

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FLIRTING – THE VICTORIAN WAY

BY DOROTHY MITTON

Many of us will send a Valentine’s card this month, but while we might spend some time choosing the perfect one I’ll bet few of us go to the lengths that our Victorian sisters did. The Victorian era, spanning the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, was a time of strict social codes and etiquette, particularly in the realm of courtship and romance. However, beneath the surface of these rigid norms, a playful and creative form of communication flourished: the art of flirtation through photo collage. This unique practice offered a discreet yet expressive way for individuals, especially women, to convey feelings and interests within the constraints of societal expectations. Photo collage in the Victorian era was a delicate craft, combining the fledgling hobby of photography with the traditional art of scrapbooking. Photography had recently become more accessible to the middle and upper classes. People began to collect carte de visite (small photographs mounted on cards) and cabinet cards, featuring portraits of friends, family, celebrities, and even themselves. These photographs provided the raw material for the creation of flirtatious collages. In the context of romance, these collages were often intricate and laden with symbolism. Women, who were typically more restricted in expressing romantic interest openly, found they could communicate subtly using collage. They could hint at their feelings or intentions without transgressing the bounds of propriety. Each element in a Victorian photo collage carried specific meanings. Flowers were a popular addition, with each variety representing a different sentiment – roses for love, violets for faithfulness etc. The inclusion of certain objects or scenes, like a ship for a longing heart or a bird for freedom, could also convey messages. The arrangement of the photographs themselves told a story; for instance, a portrait placed higher than others might indicate admiration or aspiration. These collages were not only personal expressions but also social artifacts, often exchanged during courtships or displayed in the home as a testament to one’s social connections and romantic status. The practice of creating and sharing photo collages allowed for a controlled breach of the era’s strict communication barriers, offering a glimpse into the personal desires and emotions of the creator. Moreover, the art of photo collage in the Victorian era reflected broader cultural trends. It was a manifestation of the romanticism that permeated Victorian literature and art, with its emphasis on emotion and individualism. It also illustrated the era’s fascination with new technologies and their potential for personal expression. Today, Victorian photo collages are prized as historical artifacts, offering insight into the private lives and unspoken emotions of people in a bygone era. They remind us of the enduring human desire to connect and communicate, even under the most restrictive conditions. Through their delicate assembly and rich symbolism, these collages continue to speak across the centuries, telling stories of love, longing, and the timeless art of flirtation.

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Bersted in Focus

L&G Aldwick PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS

Patios, Driveways, Block Paving, Landscaping & Fencing At L&G Aldwick we can help you realise the Patio or Driveway of your dreams. From the first design through to the final installation, we can advise you on all aspects of hard landscaping. We pride ourselves on our innovative designs and consistently high standard of workmanship. Our experienced team also specialise in fencing and walling of all types.

We are proud to be a Marshalls Approved & Vetted Installer, and we supply the UK’s most comprehensive range of driveway and paving products from Marshall’s. At L&G Aldwick we have a free Quotation and Consultation service. Find out for yourself why we are the preferred choice for the discerning customer for design and installation.

So whatever your budget or style the team at L&G Aldwick will be delighted to help you. Contact us now to arrange a free quotation - you might be surprised at how competitive we are!

01243 267988 - 07701 045394 www.aldwickdriveways.com

email.aldwickdriveways@googlemail.com

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STUNNING SNOWDROPS

BY KATE HARRISON, WEST SUSSEX NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME PUBLICITY OFFICER February is the perfect time to put on your hats, gloves and wellies and head out to enjoy the heart-warming pleasure of National Garden Scheme (NGS) Snowdrop Gardens. Each year the NGS starts the garden visiting season with its inspirational snowdrop and spring flower gardens. Hundreds of gardens sprinkled with snowdrops – these delightful harbingers of spring – and wonderful, colour contrasting spring blooms including the bright gold of aconites and soft purple of crocus, open their gates to the public from late January through February and into March. “After the long, dark winter months, the appearance of these beautiful early spring flowers really lifts the spirits and heralds the start of all the wonderful gardens to come,” says NGS Chief Executive, George Plumptre. Eight beautiful gardens open their gates in West Sussex in February and March, for more details visit https://ngs.org.uk SUNDAY 11 FEBRUARY SANDHILL FARM HOUSE, ROGATE GU31 5HU Refreshments Home-made teas. Admission Adult: £5.00 Child: Free Opening times 12:00 – 16:00 THURSDAY 15 FEBRUARY HIGHDOWN GARDENS, WORTHING BN12 6FB Admission By Donation Opening times 10:00 – 16:30 EVERY THURSDAY FROM 8 FEBRUARY THE OLD VICARAGE, WASHINGTON RH20 4AS Book your tickets in advance on the NGS website Refreshments Light refreshments. Self-service light refreshments: Picnics welcome. The Old Vicarage. Admission Adult: £7.00 Child: Free Opening times 10:00 – 17:00 Also open on other dates in April, May, June, August and by arrangement, see NGS website for details. NEW FOR 2024 THURSDAY 29 FEBRUARY AND TUESDAY 5 MARCH CROSSLAND FLOWER NURSERY WALBERTON BN18 0AX A two hour all access tour of a fourth generation, award-winning, sustainably run flower nursery with three acres of glasshouses filled to the brim with Sussex grown alstroemeria. There will be an opportunity to purchase flowers at the end of the tour. For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance on the NGS Website Refreshments Tea. Admission Adult: £10.00 Child: Free Opening times10:00 – 12:00

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Bersted in Focus

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH: ZENA WOOD BY KATE STEWART

Zena Wood lives in Felpham and she is often inspired to paint the sea and its ever-changing mood and light. Zena is our In Focus artist of the month and she has also been selected to be artist of the month at the Royal British Legion, Aldwick in February. Zena says: “I grew up here by the sea, it’s my happy place. I love that it changes constantly giving me endless inspiration from those lovely long summer turquoise days to the crashing grey waves of winter and all the light, colours and shapes in between. “I have only been painting seriously for two years after a throw away comment I made about wanting to paint the view from my son’s window. That Christmas I received canvases, paints and brushes and started painting again after a 23-year break. Three children and a baby, five dogs and two horses didn’t leave me a lot of time for painting! “Previously I painted water colours but I joined a Start Art group run by Donna Morgan who encouraged me to try oil paints. Now I can’t stop painting it’s like a fire inside me and I can sometimes be found in my studio at silly o’clock in the morning having woken up with an idea that I must get onto a canvas immediately!! Likewise, I can be out with the dogs and see a cloud formation or the sun shining through clouds and rush home to paint it. “I take many photos but find my paintings start with an idea and then evolve into something completely different. I’m still surprised by what I can do. I occasionally do landscapes and abstract painting and I often experiment with different mediums, but always come back to my oils and the sea.” In February, Zena’s paintings and prints will be available to visit and buy from Bosham Walk Arts and Craft Centre, Bosham PO18 8HX. For further information about Zena’s work visit www.zenawood.com or email ratusbagus@aol.com Instagram: zenawoodart tel: 07885766077.

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Bersted in Focus

Experience Excellence in Home Wound Care Home Wound Care celebrate one year of delivering exceptional wound care services in Bognor Regis directly to your doorstep! Our dedicated team of If you have wound care nurses are here to provide a leg wound (or leg specialised care, in the comfort of your home. ulcer) we're actively

Why choose us?

seeking patients for our ongoing studies.

Convenient Home Visits: Say goodbye to the hassle of GP appointments. Enjoy set appointment times and a dedicated schedule tailored to your needs.

Pioneers in Wound Care: We're not just providing care; we're contributing to advancements in wound healing. Our self-funded service supports research, helping bring new healing products to the market.

FREE OF CHARGE All care is provided at no cost to our patients, ensuring accessibility to high-quality wound care.

How to reach us?

www.homewoundcare.co.uk

HEALING, CARE AND INNOVATION

BY LOCAL GP – DR DAPHNE HAZELL

Approaching our one-year anniversary in February 2024, Home Wound Care proudly reflects on a year of delivering private, specialised, free of charge, wound care services directly to our patients’ homes in Bognor and surrounding areas. Committed to overcoming the challenges of traditional healthcare accessibility, our dedicated team of wound care nurses has not only met but exceeded the expectations of those in need. Distinguished by our commitment to providing high-quality care independent of the NHS, Home Wound Care is also at the forefront of advancing wound care. Our service is free for patients, and our innovative approach involves contributing research information to manufacturers, aiding in the development of new healing products. The heart of our success lies in the stories of satisfied patients. For those struggling with GP appointments or seeking a more convenient alternative, our scheduled home visits have proven transformative. Set appointment times and a dedicated schedule ensure timely and effective wound care. Patient testimonials echo the excellence of our service, praising the professionalism, knowledge, and caring nature of our nurses. Actively involved in ongoing studies, we invite individuals with leg wounds and ulcers to experience the exceptional care Home Wound Care offers. Contact us at 01903 331963 or self-refer through our website, www.homewoundcare.co.uk. As we celebrate one year, we express gratitude to our dedicated team and, most importantly, to the patients who trust us. Cheers to more years of healing, care, and innovation!

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SUSSEX CHRISTMAS QUIZ WINNER 1. Arundel 2. Martlet 3. St Leonard’s Forest 4. Arundel 5. South Shields, Tyne and Wear 6. Cicestrian 7. River Arun 8. Jack Worthing 9. Bognor or West Dean or West Stoke 10. Midhurst or Bexhill 11. Radar Station 12. Woodard Corporation colleges 13. Leonardslee 14. Cowdray 15. Bosham

16. Hampshire 17. After Queen Elizabeth II’s racehorse 18. Iping 19. Shoreham Harbour 20. Littlehampton 21. Five Oaks 22. Owers Lightship 23. Yapton 24. Kingley Vale 25. East India merchant and property 26. Christ’s Hospital 27. Pennsylvania 28. Bognor 29. King George V 30. Blackdown

Alan Silvester

Congratulations to Alan Silvester of Ford who is the winner of our Sussex Christmas Quiz 2023 published in last month’s In Focus magazines. Our esteemed In Focus writer and Sussex author and historian, Kim Leslie, visited Alan at his home in January to give him his prize, a copy of Kim’s excellent book Sussex Tales of the Unexpected: Five Centuries of County Life. Thank you to everyone who sent in their answers, we had an amazing response. And for those of you who did the quiz at home – the correct answers are above. Thank you to Kim for putting together the quiz questions which were not easy! Here’s looking forward to the Sussex Christmas Quiz 2024!

BEEF STROGANOFF WITH HERB PASTA

Tappardelle pasta makes the most perfect partner for creamy stroganoff, but you can also use rice or any pasta of your choice. Preparation time: 10 minutes (+45 mins freezer time). Cooking time: 20 mins. Serves: 4. INGREDIENTS 400g beef rump steak, trimmed 1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp olive oil 300g small button mushrooms 400g pappardelle pasta 3 shallots, finely chopped

1 tbsp plain flour 300ml beef stock 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 tbsp tomato purée 3 tbsp crème fraiche ½ x 20g pack flat-leaf parsley, chopped.

METHOD • Melt half the butter and half the oil in a large, non-stick frying pan. Turn the heat up and quickly sear the beef in batches until browned on both sides. Remove the meat and set aside. Repeat with the mushrooms, then set aside with the beef. Boil the pasta. • Add the remaining butter and oil to the pan and soften the shallots for a few mins. Stir in the flour for 1 min, then gradually add in the stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer to allow it to thicken for 5 mins, then stir in the mustard, tomato purée, crème fraîche and seasoning. Simmer for one more minute, then return the beef and mushrooms to the pan. • Drain the pasta, toss with half the chopped parsley, season, then serve with the creamy stroganoff, sprinkled with the remaining parsley.

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Are you a homeowner and aged 55 plus?

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www.adviceforlaterlife.co.uk efo f rlaterlife f .co.uk As a homeowner, your property is probably your biggest asset, but have you ever considered releasing some of the tax-free cash tied up in it? Best of all, you can use the cash lump sum however you wish:

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This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, please ask for a personalised illustration. Check that this mortgage will meet your needs if you want to move or sell your home or you want your family to inherit it. If you are in any doubt, seek independent advice.

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Bersted in Focus

15 Felpham Road, PO22 7DA phone: 01243 866111 - 823086

If you need to make alterations to your bathroom for health reasons we can save you 20% off your bill!

We have a large selection of taller toilets in stock

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Wills - How can a Deed of Variation help you? by Mark Riley, Founder & Managing Partner, MJR Solicitors How can a Deed of Variation help you? A Deed of Variation is an official document that allows the beneficiaries of a Will to change who inherits your share of the estate. Why? The Will was written a long time ago – It does not include beneficiaries born at a later date and current beneficiaries agree to include them. Passing to a child – Maybe that child is not of age, or the concerns for a Trust are no longer applicable. Utilise Spousal/Charitable Exemption – Maybe the estate is incurring tax which was unexpected, is the estate larger and can some further reductions in tax be obtained? Changing a Will can reduce your inheritance tax bill! This can be (by agreement) a change to your Will to make it more efficient if required; also, some beneficiaries may want to vary their inheritance so it does not form part of their estate. This is a particularly useful tool for later life planning, you may not wish to personally have the funds and potentially pay Inheritance Tax, so you therefore allow this to pass to children or grandchildren as an inheritance so it passes directly to them. The resulting tax benefit is that the funds count as if going direct to the new beneficiary as if the Will sent it to them direct.

A Deed of Variation is a great tool and should always be considered and discussed to ensure the most tax efficient decisions can be made. When should you make a Deed of Variation? You can make a Deed of Variation before or after applying for probate – It must be completed within 2 years of death, must be in writing and needs to be from the individual benefitting. Can you make a Deed of Variation if there is no Will? Yes, you can still make a Deed of Variation if there is no Will. We can help! How to make a Deed of Variation If you would like to make a Deed of Variation, please contact us today. We can provide you with a free quote. Contact our friendly team today, we’ll help you find the right Will packages for you.

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Will Writing Specialists We’d love to help you plan your family’s future Having any Will in place is important, but if you’re a homeowner, it’s imperative that you protect the value of your home by ensuring your Will is set up correctly. This can be complicated for the uninitiated but MJR’s team of legal specialists will act on your behalf, meaning a much easier process for you, giving you advice and answers to your questions, so you have all the jargon-free facts you need to make the right decisions for your beneficiaries.

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Bognor Regis: 4 Bankside | 128 Middleton Road | Bognor Regis | PO22 6DB Littlehampton: Arcade Business Centre | 2 Arcade Rd | Littlehampton | BN17 5AR For more information or to book an appointment at either office, please call 01243 945054 or email info@mjrsolicitors.co.uk or www.mjrsolicitors.co.uk MJR Solicitors is a Limited Company Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Number 637131. Our Professional Rules may be found at SRA.org.uk

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CROSSWORD Across 1. Egyptian canal (4) 17. Become older (3) 3. New York City (3, 5) 18. How long it takes to react (8, 4) 9. Put in order (7) 21. Plea of being elsewhere (5) 10. More infrequent (5) 22. Tasteful, exquisite (7) 11. State appointed temporary 23. Embellished (8) guardian (6-6) 24. Curve (4) 14. Cyst, bag (3) 16. Recites, announces (5)

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FIVE EASY TIPS FOR A STYLE BOOST

BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER

The fun and glamour of Christmas and New Year is done, the weathers grey and damp, our New Year’s Resolutions may have fallen by the wayside - it’s time for a little style boost to cheer us up! Here are five tips that are free or won’t cost the earth … Declutter your Wardrobe It’s such a cathartic process to have a good clear out now and then (I recommend doing this at least twice a year), but a full wardrobe de-clutter can be daunting. Try spending just 10 or 15 minutes a day over a week picking out five things you no longer love, don’t wear, or aren’t a good fit. By the end of the week, you’ll have cleared 35 items that can go to charity, recycling, or sold to make a bit of cash back! If you don’t think you have that many clothes, remember this can include shoes, accessories, and undies too. Shop your Wardrobe Now you can see more clearly what you have, play around with putting items together that you may not have tried before. Or resurrecting something that’s been neglected recently. Try physically moving things around – hanging items by colour instead or category or vice versa, hanging items that have been folded up, mixing and matching suits etc. This can spark new outfit ideas and makes them feel fresh and new again. Accessorise One way to mix things up without going too bold is to accessorise your outfits. Never remember to put jewellery on? – make the effort to throw a necklace over that plain sweater. A printed or colourful scarf can make a boring top come to life. And if you’re feeling brave, try wearing a hat out and about – and I don’t mean your dog-walking bobble hat, it can be a real outfit booster. Pop on some Lippy Even if you’re not a big makeup person, it’s amazing how much difference just a slick of the right lipstick can make. As you’d expect, I’m going to say it helps to know what shades will flatter your face and make your eye sparkle too. But as a rule of thumb, if you’re fair in colouring, go for a peachy nude or glossy pink. And if you have a darker, richer look, a bold red or mahogany hue will look great. My colour me beautiful range of makeup has 22 different lipsticks and 6 glosses, so you can find the perfect shade. Change up your Hair This can be as a big a change as cutting it all off for a short bob or pixie cut, or something less dramatic as getting a fringe cut in. If you don’t want to go for the chop, try a hair accessory, or simply try tying it in a different way – a change is as good as a rest or so they say! Remember to consider your face shape and scale when choosing your hairstyle. I can help you with choosing your best lippy, show you your face shape for choosing a new hairstyle, or doing the wardrobe review with you – get in touch for more information. My seasonal style updates in March are a great way to get a bit of inspiration. Sign up to my mailing list to be the first to hear when the dates drop – https://vickybooker.com/contact-us/ or check out my website www.vickybooker.com

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A GOOD READ

BY NATASHA DONOVAN

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom Tuesdays with Morrie is a memoir that recounts the author’s weekly visits to his former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is in the final stages of ALS, a rare and terminal neurodegenerative disease, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Each Tuesday, they explore one of life’s fundamental questions, making this book a patchwork of profound wisdom. Albom’s prose is simple yet stirring, capturing Morrie’s remarkable outlook on life even as he faces his impending demise. Morrie’s insights on love, work, community, family, aging, forgiveness, and, ultimately, death, are both timeless and universally applicable. His teachings emphasize the importance of connection, compassion, and living a life that resonates with one’s personal values. But what makes the book truly compelling is the transformation of Albom himself. A successful sports journalist caught in the whirlwind of a career-driven life, Albom’s reconnection with Morrie becomes a catalyst for his own introspection and growth. This personal evolution is what lends the book its emotional heft. Tuesdays With Morrie is more than a tribute to a dying man’s wisdom; it is an invitation to pause and reflect on our own lives. Its enduring popularity attests to its ability to touch hearts and awaken minds. In a world bustling with noise and haste, Morrie’s lessons urge us to embrace simplicity, love, and, ultimately, our humanity.

OUCH – HOW TO REMOVE A SPLINTER

BY LOUISE ADDISON

Splinters are painful and tricky to remove. I remember my mother digging around in the tender ball of my thumb with a darning needle one evening when I was ten. The splinter on that occasion had lodged itself firmly and resisted all attempts to prise it out while I resisted all attempts to have it prised out! Years later a friend training to be nurse taught me how to remove splinters safely and I pass on the knowledge here. • First clean the area with soap and water. • Inspect the splinter; use a magnifying glass if you have one. Look at the angle of entry and how deeply embedded the splinter is. • If the splinter protrudes from the skin it can be removed with tweezers. Sterilise the tweezers first using surgical spirit (neat Vodka also works) and if you need a magnifier get someone else to hold it; then grip the splinter gently and pull it out along the same angle it entered the skin. • Small, fine splinters can be trickier, especially if they are more deeply embedded. In this instance cover the affected the area with Magnesium Sulphate paste (cheap and available from all pharmacies) and then bandage it. Leave overnight and in the morning the splinter will have surfaced. If it hasn’t, reapply and bandage again. The Magnesium sulphate is anhydrous and draws moisture out of the wound and with it the splinter. Once the end of the splinter pokes out you can use tweezers to remove it completely. Remember: • If you use a needle to break the skin prior to applying the paste make sure the needle is sterile. • Never try to squeeze a splinter out; you may drive it in further.

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DEMENTIA CARE CUTS – WE CAN HELP Dear All, You may have heard the recent news that the NHS Dementia Assessment Service across Sussex, will be pausing assessments from the 1st of January until April 2024, and wondering what this means. In December, Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust announced that they are closing the Sussex Dementia Assessment Service until at least April because of winter pressure. Anyone referred for a dementia assessment by their GP will not be able to see a specialist until at least April. This could leave over 1,000 families affected by dementia waiting many months more to receive a diagnosis of dementia. We want to be explicit that this only applies to the NHS Dementia Assessment Service and NOT to Sage House, which is run by local charity Dementia Support. At the charity, we are extremely concerned about how this reduction in NHS services will impact local people and, we want to get the message out that we’re here to help, whether someone has a diagnosis of dementia or not. The festive period and New Year often sees families get together and changes in behaviour, personality or memory issues can become more noticeable. We always see an increase in people seeking help in January for this reason. At Sage House we provide specialist advisors, known as Wayfinders, who help people understand how to deal with dementia, whether diagnosed or not. We are a charity and as such the service is completely free of charge, and open to anyone- there is no need to have a referral from a healthcare professional. Wayfinders provide help, advice, and emotional support for people through their entire dementia journey, but we also have a café in Sage House Tangmere, wellbeing activities, and a daycentre. We know that waiting for a dementia diagnosis can be an Dementia Support CEO, Sally Tabbner, agonising time for families, as they look to the future with fear (left) with one of her customers. and uncertainty, and we want to do everything possible to alleviate that. We are here to offer support and advice and will do everything we can to support local people - before, during and after a diagnosis. But as a local charity, we can only do so with your support. We know this is a difficult time of year to be asking for donations and we’re immensely grateful to those who give to our regular appeals, which mean we can support our current customers and their families when they need it most. However, the sudden and unexpected closure of the dementia assessment service will leave many people in limbo; we know we can help, we want to help but being a young charity means we do not have the reserves in the bank to call on to respond to the unpredicted surge we are going to see. If you need help or support please contact us on 01243 8886941 or pop into Sage House which is based in City Fields Way, Tangmere. PO20 2FP. If you can help with our appeal for funding please either call us or visit dementiasupport.org.uk/urgent-appeal to give what you can to support local people waiting for a dementia diagnosis. Best wishes, Sally Tabbner Dementia Support Chief Executive www.dementiasupport.org.uk

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Looking for extra support with your day to day living? The Connect to Support website is for anyone in West Sussex who is looking for additional help or support to maintain their independence.

Visit our website to: • discover tips on improving your health and wellbeing • view equipment to help you stay independent • find support for carers • learn about options for extra care and support.

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Expert advice on paying for care Long-term care in your own home or in a residential care home is expensive, but with expert advice from independent financial specialists, Carewise can help you to make informed decisions on choosing and paying for the right care.

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The Carewise care fees specialists are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and members of the Society of Later Life Advisers, so you can have peace of mind when discussing your finances.Contact Carewise to find out how you could benefit. carewise@westsussex.gov.uk

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BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE February 2024, Time Zone GMT

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Bersted In Focus February 2024