It’s the summer edition and hopefully this will be matched by summer weather!!
I am taking this opportunity to announce the In Focus Photography Competition – Sussex in Summer. I am asking you all to send in your snaps of summer by Friday 9 August to be featured in the magazine with three to be chosen for the September front covers. Ice creams, pebbles, gardens, pets, fields, beaches, glasses of wine – it will be wonderful to have a collection of pictures that reflect our glorious county in the summer. Please email your images to the office address below as high res as possible.
Have a restful July and August. If you are planning a break away – make the most of every minute and enjoy it all.
Please keep your excellent letters and article suggestions coming in, I really appreciate them.
Best wishes, Kate
Copies of Bersted in Focus are available to collect from Durlston Drive Post Office, 4 Durlston Parade, Bognor Regis, PO22 9DJ.
You may have been fortunate enough to have visited the Bognor Coastal Art Trail in 2022 and 2023. Happily, we are in our third year and have more artists for you to visit over the last two weekends of July.
The trail runs along the seven mile coastal strip with venues at Pagham, Aldwick, Bognor, Felpham, Middleton and Elmer.
There are 29 artists showcasing their work, some of whom are hosting another artist without their own studio or workspace, which enables them to be included. Due to the success of the last 2 years we have attracted 10 new artists to the trail this year. As it evolves we hope that even more will come on board for 2025.
The trail is a celebration of creativity, culture and community and each venue offers a unique experience. There are so many people with an artistic flair in and around the Bognor area, and the art trail gives you the opportunity to visit some of these talented people.
The artists will be opening up their studios or workspaces at their homes, and you will get the opportunity to speak to them, ask questions, learn about the processes and methods they use to design and create their artwork. This is a community event open to locals and visitors to the area. Who knows, you might be able to draw inspiration from the work you see and create your own masterpieces.
There is a wide variety of arts on display across the trail, including paintings, sculptural ceramics, jewellery, practical pottery, stained glass, illustrations, textiles, embroidery, fused glass, mixed media, animation, personalised wax candles, photography and digital art.
If the weather is nice why not walk or cycle along the trafficfree promenade to get to the next venue. You could even split your visits over two weekends, visiting Elmer to Bognor one weekend and Bognor to Pagham the next weekend. Bognor town centre and the promenade offer a variety of places to stop off for refreshments.
A big thank you goes to Bognor Town Council for continuing to support this event with grant aid funding. We are also very grateful to the Reynolds family for providing us with free preview exhibition space again, in their amazing furniture shop on the high street in Bognor.
Your free trail guide will be available from Bognor and Rose Green libraries, Middleton post office and other local shops and cafes in the Bognor area. Make sure you put the last 2 weekends of July 2024 – 20th/21st and 27th/28th – in your diaries. Come and join us as we open up our studios and creative spaces for you to enjoy. We look forward to your visit.Venues will be open from 10.30am to 5pm. www.bognorcoastalarttrail.co.uk
How many people spend an hour or two just walking around Hotham Park? I am always surprised when talking about the Park people remark; “Oh I must get in there one of these days.”
You could start from outside the library, and walk to the right of the library where there is an old section of flint wall, this is in fact part of the original boundary wall of the grounds, erected by Sir Richard Hotham in the 1790’s.
Move on to the Ice House, still in its original site, and constructed on this site in 1792, within the grounds of the estate. It was to allow the staff to retain perishable foods during the summer months, some of which would have come from the enclosed kitchen garden, situated where today we have chestnuts behind the library. Basically the park was Sir Richards back garden.
Next to the car park, in London Road. Up to the 1960’s there was an avenue of tulip trees. As we enter the Park, we cross Church path and looking at a local map we see how this route originally ran from the sea up to South Bersted church, possibly for smugglers to use in the past.
Today there are numerous activities within the park, including the popular train, the mini golf and of course the café, catering for all tastes. For those of you seeking exercise there is plenty of space for dog walking and there is the weekly 5k parkrun, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in May this year.
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 29 July - 1900 for 1945 hrs
‘Air Defence of the UK since 1940 – the Evolution of RADAR and Tactics to the Present Day’ and ‘Bloodhound – The Cold War Surface to Air Missile’ Presented by Sqn Ldr Joe Marsden
Sqn Ldr Joe Marsden returns to Air ACES to give some more of his very interesting talks. His first talk is about the early days in the Battle of Britian, up until today’s high technology fighters, including the need for tactical assistance from the ground. Joe covers the role of the Fighter Controller and the advances in technology which allow aircraft to be put into winning positions in an air battle. This story will be from the time of the Spitfire to the F35 Lightning II, and from Chain Home to the digital Air Defence Systems today.
Joe’s second talk explains about Bloodhound, a supersonic long range missile, protecting the UK against enemy aircraft attacks. This illustrated talk, using pictures and videos, will cover the history and capabilities of the system, including developments and upgrades which kept it in service from the 1960s until 1999.
NEW VENUE – Boxgrove Village Hall, The Street, Boxgrove, PO18 0EE 7.00pm for 7.45pm 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 07502 400657.
MIDDLETON-ON-SEA PARISH COUNCIL
VACANCY FOR PARISH CLERK & RESPONSIBLE FINANCE OFFICER (RFO)
Salary Scale is based on NALC Scale 12
i.e. £14,282 per annum for 20 hours per week
The present Parish Clerk to the Council will be leaving shortly and the Council now wishes to appoint a replacement Parish Clerk & RFO with professional skills, personality and resilience to undertake this most challenging role.
The Clerk will be assisted by an Administration Assistant who works a flexible 10 hours per week
Working closely with the Chairman and Councillors, the Parish Clerk’s role is to manage and deliver all parish facilities effectively by implementing the Council’s policies, advising the Councillors diligently and managing an effective interface between the Council and its parishioners.
The Clerk will be provided with a laptop and mobile telephone to enable flexible working both in the parish office and at home.
Attendance at evening full council and committee meetings will be necessary.
For an application pack, including Benefits Package, Personal Specification, Job Description and Application Form please email mospc@btconnect.com or telephone 01243 585262. Please note CVs will not be accepted – applicants must complete the application form.
Closing date for applications: Monday 8th July 2024
OLYMPIC ODDITIES BY BEV STONE
The International Olympic Committee surprised everyone when it announced that breakdancing would debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, this is not the first instance of an unexpected sport appearing at the Olympic Games.
• Tug-of-War was part of the Olympics from 1900 to 1920. Nations could enter multiple teams, allowing them to win more than one medal in the same event. The US and GB achieved this, securing gold, silver, and bronze in 1904 and 1908 respectively. Personally, I hope they reintroduce it soon.
• Pistol Dueling was featured at the unofficial 1906 Intercalated Games in Athens as a male-only event where competitors shot at plaster dummies. It returned as a demonstration event at the 1908 London Olympics, where competitors fired at each other using wax bullets while wearing protective gear. No injuries occurred. I can see this working with modern paintballs. Who wouldn't love to watch that?
• Obstacle Swimming was another unusual event in the 1900 Paris Olympics. Competitors navigated a 200-metre course in the Seine River, climbing over poles, scrambling over boats, and swimming under others. Australian swimmer Fred Lane won the event, narrowly beating the second-place finisher by two seconds. I'm putting in a bid for some sort of obstacle course event to feature in the next Olympics ... something in the style of Total Wipeout would be a great spectator sport. What sports would you like to see at the Olympics?
PRESERVED TOMATOES
The perfect way to use up a glut of summer tomatoes. They will lend a touch of the Mediterranean to pasta dishes or a summer sandwich.
• Preheat the oven to 120°C (fan) / gas mark 1. Cut the tomatoes in half and arrange them cut-side up on an oiled baking tray. Lightly brush the tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until they are reduced in size and appear dark and wrinkled.
• For storage, transfer the tomatoes into a sterilized jar and fill with olive oil until the tomatoes are fully submerged. They can be kept refrigerated for up to two weeks. For longer preservation, place the sealed jars in a large pot of water and heat until it simmers, then let them simmer gently for 45 minutes. Allow the jars to cool in the water. Stored this way, the tomatoes will keep for up to six months in a cool, dark place. After opening, consume the tomatoes within two weeks and store them in the refrigerator.
• You can have fun with flavourings, adding herbs like fresh rosemary or thyme, peeled garlic cloves or chilli flakes.
D-DAY WEST SUSSEX
BY KIM LESLIE
Eighty years ago last month, Sussex was one vast military camp crowded with British, American and Canadian soldiers with their lorries, tanks, supplies and equipment awaiting shipment across the Channel to the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy.
The build-up of the assault forces in West Sussex began in early 1944. In February the first Americans arrived, the 30th US Infantry Division. Its 120th Infantry Regiment was billeted in Bognor and Felpham (some troops in Summerley Lane, some on the Summerley Estate), with their HQ at the Victoria Hotel at the end of Victoria Drive. The American presence made quite a stir, the quip of the day – ‘over fed, over paid, over sexed and over here’ – summing up something of the excitement of playing host to the American GIs. Sussex children enjoyed their first taste of American candy and chewing gum! In Chichester, Bishop Bell held receptions for American officers in the Bishop’s Palace; elsewhere in the city, canteen facilities were opened for the troops. At Middleton, they gathered at ‘Mom and Pop’s Canteen’.
Visits and inspections by the D-Day commanders took place along the coastline around Bognor. The Bracklesham Bay Hotel hosted Eisenhower, Montgomery and Churchill while they watched landing rehearsals at Bracklesham, Climping and Elmer, their sandy beaches similar to the coastline around Arromanches. King George VI visited Petworth Park’s great military camp, home to over 4,000 soldiers, including the British 27th Armoured Brigade with its amphibious Sherman tanks. More American troops were stationed in Walberton Park. Scratched into the brickwork of its gate-posts on Yapton Lane are the names of a few of the troops and their home states: Pennsylvania, Virginia and Texas.
Eisenhower also stayed at the Ship Hotel in North Street, Chichester for his inspection of local airfields. Besides famous Tangmere, temporary frontline airfields were at Bognor (Chalcraft Lane), Merston, Funtington and Selsey. Tangmere’s Operation Room was at Bishop Otter College in Chichester, on D-Day the nerve centre for fifty-six squadrons from eighteen airfields in southern England. Three Czech Spitfire squadrons based at Apuldram gave cover to troops as they disembarked onto the landing beaches.
Perhaps the most extraordinary D-Day scenes were off the coast at Pagham and Selsey where parts of two Mulberry Harbours were being constructed, ready to be towed across the Channel for the rapid off-loading of vehicles, equipment and rations. Remnants of an abandoned section that never made it to Normandy lie embedded in the sand on the Aldwick foreshore, today’s most visible local reminder of this most momentous operation.
The full story has been told in ‘D-Day West Sussex’, originally published in 1994 for the 50th anniversary. Reprinted in 2019 for the 75th anniversary, it is still available from the West Sussex Record Office in Orchard Street, Chichester.
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ON THE TRAIL OF WINNIE THE POOH
BY SIMON BAKER IRONS
I have recently assessed a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the Ashdown Forest and discovered that this part of East Sussex has some stunning scenery and many beautiful walks. The expeditions aim was to follow the trail of Winnie the Pooh and the various areas that inspired the stories. Ashdown Forest is the real life setting and inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood from the Winnie the Pooh stories by AA Milne who lived in the area and based places in the books with real life locations nearby.
The Ashdown Forest Centre publish a leaflet containing two walks, which take you to all the notable locations that feature in the books.
The Short Walk to Pooh Sticks Bridge (1 mile)
• Park at the ‘Pooh Car Park’ and follow the signposted path downhill, after ½ mile you’ll reach the small wooden bridge, that is known as ‘Pooh Sticks Bridge’. Collect some sticks on the way so that you can play Pooh sticks at the bridge, a game whereby sticks are dropped upstream and the first to appear from under the bridge wins.
• On the way, make sure to keep your eyes open as Owl's House can be found on the right-hand side high up in one of the trees and nearby is Piglet's House too.
• After visiting the bridge, retrace your steps back to the car park.
The Long Pooh Walk (2 miles)
• From ‘Gill's Lap Car Park’, walk north along the track until you reach Gill’s Lap (Galleons Lap in the Winnie the Pooh books) which is the group of tall pine trees, also known as The Enchanted Place. Christopher Robin knew that it was enchanted as no one had ever been able to count if there were sixty-three or sixtyfour trees there.
• Leave The Enchanted Place and head west along the narrow track towards a lone pine tree growing in a hollow which is The Heffalump Trap where Winnie the Pooh and Piglet attempted to catch a Heffalump.
• Head back to the main path and turn left towards another group of trees which is where the AA Milne and EH Shepard memorial is sited, from here there are spectacular views across Ashdown Forest.
• Return back along the path to Roo’s Sandy Pit on the left, which is a disused quarry. Take the small path past Roo’s Sandy Pit towards the main road. Cross the road and follow the trail down to the woodland below. This is the route that Winnie the Pooh took on his “Expotition” to the North Pole which is located by the bridge at the bottom of the valley.
• Cross the bridge, walk up the track (this is a steep climb) and turn right when you reach the t-junction at the top. Follow the path around the edge of the valley and Eeyore’s Gloomy Place is located somewhere in the valley below.
• Carry on walking along the trail around the valley and you will eventually reach the main road again and Gill’s Lap Car Park where you parked.
To see more photos and walks please follow me on Instagram @piertopiertrekking
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ARTIST OF THE MONTH:
MARY HITE
BY KATE STEWART
Mary Hite is thrilled to announce the opening of her Annual Art Exhibition of original paintings, limited edition prints and cards showcasing a diverse collection of captivating and affordable artwork in Arundel.
Featuring an array of subjects and styles, Mary’s artwork invites viewers on a journey through the artist's unique perspective and creative vision. From vibrant landscapes to intimate portraits, each piece reflects a deep passion for artistic expression and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms.
"We are delighted to invite art enthusiasts and collectors to experience this year's exhibition," says Mary. "It's an opportunity to share my latest creations and connect with the local community through the universal language of art."
You can expect to be immersed in a world of colour, emotion, and imagination as you explore the Norfolk Centre filled with Mary’s masterful compositions. Whether you're a seasoned art connoisseur or a casual admirer, there's something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Admission to the exhibition is free, and all artwork will be available for purchase to take away immediately to add a touch of beauty to homes with one-of-a-kind pieces from the exhibition at The Norfolk Centre, Mill Road, Arundel, BN18 9PA from Saturday 3 August 2024 from 10.00am to 5.30pm. For more information visit www.maryhitepaintings.co.uk or contact mary_hite@hotmail.com.
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RETRO FASHION
BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER
Heading to Goodwood Revival this year, or another fabulous local vintage event – ‘Dawn’s Vintage Do’ in October on Hayling Island? With Goodwood traditionally celebrating the 40s to 60’s, how do you decide what to wear and which decade is for you?
Ultimately, it’s down to personality and what look appeals the most, and perhaps body-shape. The ’40s and ’50s were all about hourglass curves, and gents could wear roomier suits. But, in the ’60s the straight lines of Twiggy together with narrow trousers and tighter-fitting sweaters stole the show.
Here are my top tips for embracing each decade:
The ’40s:
Vicky Booker wearing her
Isabella Josie hat at Goodwood Revival.
In the war years, rationing meant there was a strong element of utilitarian reserve. So, think all things ‘Forces’ – like uniforms! Hemlines for the ladies got shorter because fabric wasn’t readily available, and the ‘Victory Suit’ – a tailored jacket with either a knee-length skirt or wide-leg trousers was popular for women. If you choose this look, wear your wide-leg trousers high on the waist. A full jacketed affair was popular for gents (always with a hat of course)!
Remember the ’40s was also a very glamourous era – so ladies, channel Rita Hayworth in a waistcinching gown, designed to show off that hour-glass figure!
The ’50s:
By the end of the war, and into the ’50s, things got more glamorous – and excessive. Christian Dior’s ‘New Look’ brought with it full skirts and dresses using optimum fabric. This fashion made a statement and shrugged off rationing for good. If you fancy a swishy skirt and a coat of red lippy, this era could be for you. But if you want something more figure-hugging, the wiggle dress and that ‘pin-up look’ was also popular.
For the gents, suiting was still prevalent, but you can also afford to adopt a more casual or fun look. Maybe you’ll go for a rockabilly outfit with a bowling shirt and rolled-up dark denim jeans.
The ’60s:
When things got colourful and psychedelic! Although at the beginning of the era it was still reasonably smart looks with slimmer fitting trousers and single-breasted jackets. When the ‘swinging sixties’ started in earnest, along came bell bottoms – for both the guys and girls. If you fancy a pop of colour and pattern, then the ’60s are for you.
My favourite vintage shops
Chichester has a fabulous selection, including the Almshouse Vintage in the Hornet, and St Wilfrid’s Retro & Vintage, for authentic and ‘lookalike’ retro fashions. I also love Retroesque in Arundel, which does vintage-style new clothing and accessories. It’s opposite my favourite milliner – Bella, from Isabella Joise Millinery in Tarrant Street, and if there’s one thing that can really make an outfit look more retro, it’s a good hat!
Want more inspiration? Bella and I are running a special workshop on 18 July at 6.30pm dedicated to vintage style from across the decades. Learn more about the fashions and get to try amazing hats and other pieces. Book your place via Bella’s website @ isabellajosie.com/workshops
Want personalised advice for your outfit? To find your perfect shape, book a Style Consultation with me this summer. Vickybooker.com or contact me for info – vicky@vickybooker.com
Headscarf fashion late 1960s early 1970s style.
Image courtesy of Isabella Josie Millinery
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Dr Davina Mahoney Dr John Harker Dr Mauricio Carrillo Dr Sharad Patel
If you have moved to this area, or are looking for a new dentist, we would love for you to come and join our friendly Bognor Regis practice. We pride ourselves on a partnership built on trust and mutual respect to improve your dental health. We aim to work with you to provide optimum dental care with the latest and advanced dental treatments, transparent costs and a friendly experience every time you visit us.
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• We accept referrals from other dental practices for complex single and multiple dental implants
Felpham Dental Implant Clinic
At Felpham Dental we offer a full range of cost-effective treatments for both general and cosmetic dentistry. These include whitening, veneers, crowns, white fillings, dental implants, root canal treatments and facial aesthetics including intradermal wrinkle treatments.
We accept referrals for complex root canal treatments with Dr John Harker, and oral surgery referrals including facial pain and migraine, with Dr Mauricio Carrillo.
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The tu-whit, tu-whoo of the Tawny Owl is surely one of the most delightful and haunting bird sounds there is. Of the five species of owl which reside in Britain, the Tawny Owl is one of the most nocturnal so you are much more likely to hear it than see it – unless you like hanging out in forests at night. Late summer, however, is one of the few times you could spot a young Tawny Owl in broad daylight. At about four weeks old, they pull their soft fluffy bodies up onto nearby branches and start to build up their strength and hunting skills.
Certainly owls are magnificent birds but it’s not just their exquisite looks that make them so special. They possess some exceptional senses in order to survive their mysterious nocturnal lifestyles.
The distinctive piercing eyes of the owl are intrinsic to its predatory behaviour. Their eyeballs are tubular meaning they have larger retinas which improve their night vision. Their large forward facing eyes give them ‘binocular’ vision. This means they have strong depth perception so can judge how far away something is, and accurately follow a moving target.
The Tawny Owls’ sense of hearing is also integral to its hunting skills. This is heightened by having asymmetrical ears, meaning sound will arrive in its ears at different times allowing it to precisely locate its prey.
Another superpower of the Tawny Owl is their ability to fly in complete silence, giving them the edge when hunting for speedy prey such as a vole or mouse. This smooth, graceful flight is helped by having large wings and a slow wing beat. Its feathers are soft, dense and edged with tiny comb-like structures called serrations which reduce noise by modifying the airflow over the wings.
Every year, a Tawny Owl family is spied on by the Pagham harbour nest cam. This year three eggs were laid, two hatched but only one bird survived – possibly one hungry owl ate its sibling. Let’s see what next year brings.
To join us on one of our guided walks and to find out what else is going on at Pagham Harbour over the summer, see: https://events.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour or call 01243 641508.
Ivan Lang (rspb-images.com)
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Down
1. Ceasing (8)
2. Watched, looked (8)
3. Deliberation, Cogitation (13)
5. Outstanding (13)
6. Cares for (5)
CROSSWORD
Across 1. Hit, clouted (6)
4. Abundance (6)
8. Institution (12)
9. Precise, singular (10)
12. Required (6)
13. Like better (6)
7. Concern, problem (5)
10. Accredited, authentic (8)
11. Gifts (8)
14. Stiff (5)
15. Father's brother (5)
16. Amenities (10)
17. Advanced culture, society (12)
18. Prompt (6)
19. Rides a bike (6)
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ARKVIEW
BY LEWIS WILKINS
Hi, my name is Lewis and Arkview Ltd is my construction and roofing business based in Felpham and we proudly serve the West Sussex area with a commitment to dependability, reliability and friendliness. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality building services to meet the diverse needs of our clients. With a reputation for excellence, we handle every aspect of construction work, from roofing and landscaping to extensions and complete renovations.
At Arkview, we understand that your home or business is a significant investment. That’s why we approach each project with the utmost care and precision, ensuring that our work not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Our skilled professionals are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to deliver superior results, regardless of the project’s scope or complexity.
We transform visions into reality, whether it’s enhancing your outdoor space with stunning landscaping, adding valuable living space with a seamless extension, or ensuring your property’s safety and aesthetics with durable roofing solutions. Our customer-centric approach ensures clear communication, timely project completion, and meticulous attention to detail at every stage.
Arkview has become a trusted name in West Sussex due to our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We focus on building long-lasting relationships with our clients through transparency, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Choosing Arkview means partnering with a team dedicated to realizing your construction dreams. For all your building needs, trust the expertise and friendly service of Arkview. Experience the difference of working with a truly dependable and reliable construction company.
To contact me please email: info@arkview.co.uk or phone 0784 8104454 or find us on social media @arkview_ltd
A GOOD READ
BY NATASHA DONOVAN
The Games: A Global History of the Olympics by David Goldblatt
There are many books about the Olympics but Goldblatt’s insightful and thoroughly researched narrative of the sporting event stands out for its depth and breadth. He is known for his detailed sociological insights and doesn’t disappoint here as he explores the development of the Olympics throughout its modern existence, beginning in 1896. He examines how the Olympics have been a stage for not only showcasing athletic prowess but also for playing out international conflicts and alliances. His analysis spans the ideological battles during the Cold War, the controversies of boycotts, and the dynamics of gender and race that have evolved over the decades. He even digs into the commercialization and the corruption that have plagued the Games, providing a critical look at the bodies that organise and profit from them.
Goldblatt does not shy away from discussing how the Games have both challenged and reinforced social norms and inequalities, making it a reflective mirror for the host cities and nations. His discussions on the urban and economic impacts on host cities like Montreal, Beijing, and Rio are particularly enlightening, revealing the sometimes devastating aftermath of the Games.
Don’t be put off by the fact this is a weighty non-fiction. The prose is engaging and accessible, ensuring that The Games is not just for historians or sports enthusiasts but for anyone interested in the broader implications of this global event. The inclusion of personal stories and athlete perspectives adds a human element to the historical facts, making the narrative even more compelling.
The Arkview team.
FANCY FOLIAGE BY RACHEL LEVERTON
We all love flowers. They’re what gardening is all about and the fact that they’re relatively shortlived makes them extra-special.
But my garden can’t survive on flowers alone. It needs to look attractive all year round. This is where friendly foliage plants come in to their own.
Many non-evergreen plants have beautiful showy foliage between April and November, and we’d be mad not to take full advantage of it.
Rodgersia pinnata is an excellent example. It has huge, attractive bronze, leathery leaves which are almost sculptural in appearance. As a bonus it sends up feathery cream flowers in the summer.
It likes soil which doesn’t dry out so a pebble mulch will work brilliantly, and it complements the plant.
Hostas have truly beautiful leaves, but I’ve tried and failed with them on many occasions because my garden is home to a race of hostachomping super slugs. I’ve had some success with the variety “Frances Williams” which is less prone to attack though I still need to go on slug patrol every evening! Mostly though, I now plant them in pots armed with copper rings. Slugs hate copper and my hostas can grow (mostly) unmolested.
Hostas do like a moist soil so if yours is on the dry side work in plenty of compost or manure at planting time and mulch well... preferably with something sharp to act as a deterrent to the slimy brigade.
I have had much more success with ferns. They are the most useful plant for shade. My favourite is the ostrich-plume fern, Matteuccia struthiopteris. Plant them under trees and shrubs and watch the stunning lime-green foliage unfold each spring.
New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax has bold, dramatic fountains of spiky purple foliage is my absolute favourite foliage plant. It isn’t frost-hardy, so during extended sub-zero temperatures it will need protecting. If you’re concerned, choose the much hardier green variety…but honestly, the purple on is worth the risk.
Many people overlook grasses when they think about foliage but there are some seriously attractive varieties. Try Miscanthus sinensis “Zebrinus.” The leaves look like green ribbons, striped with yellow and reach chest height. Cut it down to ground level each February.
Finally, if you have the space, for a real ‘in-your-face’ fancy foliage try the golden-leaved Catalpa bignonioides “Aurea.” Grow it as a large bush. Prune each stem back to a sprouting bud around knee-height each spring and mulch with manure at the same time. It will reward you with leaves as big as Frisbees! Now that’s really fancy foliage.
Happy gardening,
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BODY – MIND – BALANCE BY HEIDI LAWRENCE
I am Heidi Lawrence, BODY – MIND – BALANCE, and I have been a complementary therapist for over 25 years. My training originated in Tui-Na Chinese Medical Massage, Thai and Indonesian Massage, Acupuncture, Spinal Touch and Reiki.
Over the years I have continued my training and understanding of the mind body connection – how emotional trauma can cause physical issues, gut issues, skin problems and more, and how to rebalance the body's energy system.
Pain, stiffness, muscle tension and joint restriction from sports injuries or work-related strain are treated with deep tissue massage, muscle manipulation, acupressure, trigger point techniques and hot stones and are tailored to each person's individual needs.
I have worked extensively with professional athletes, dancers, football teams and marathon runners and now my focus is Kinesiology. This therapy uses bio feedback from muscle monitoring to find and ultimately re-balance disturbances or energy blockages in the body. Varied and fascinating kinesiology techniques can be used to help gut issues, sleep disturbances, food intolerances, allergies, skin problems, joint pain, fatigue, anxiety and so much more.
From my lovely Felpham Village therapy room, I offer treatments for injuries, pain, muscle and joint tension, as well as the many issues already mentioned. For general relaxation, a full body Hot Stone Massage is a popular choice. Visit www.body-mind-balance.co.uk or my facebook page to find out more.
I see people of all ages including children, and I work regularly in a local care home to help with age-related complaints. I very much look forward to welcoming new clients. For more information or to book an appointment. (I cannot take phone calls due to hearing issues) please text 07801 939622 or email heidijlawrence@gmail.com
SUDOKU
How to Play Sudoku
It’s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
DRINKING THE SEA BY
KIM LESLIE
Drink up – sea water’s good for you! That’s the message from an 18th-century Sussex doctor who popularised this miraculous medicine. Enterprising business men soon saw their chance and bottled Sussex sea water was on sale in London. A water pipeline was even planned between Lancing and London in the late-19th century, so the English Channel would be on tap in both the capital and its suburbs. Sea water was to be pumped from Lancing beach to a reservoir high on the Downs above Steyning, flow by gravity to Epsom and then pumped into and around London. Its estimated flow was to be ten million gallons a day. Literally a Victorian pipe dream, it all came to nothing.
The Sussex medical man was Dr Richard Russell of Lewes whose ground-breaking book made for a seaside revolution. First published in Latin in 1750 – in translation entitled ‘A Dissertation on the Use of Sea-Water in the Diseases of the Glands’ – Russell claimed that its saline-iodine content was the cure for consumption, dropsy, violent colic, tumours rheumatism, hectic fevers, spasms, convulsions, scurvy, head pains, even deafness. In fact there weren’t many complaints the sea couldn’t treat. Russell’s memorial in South Malling church, Lewes, says it all. From the Greek it reads: ‘The sea cures all the diseases of mankind’. A persuasive publicist for the briny-cure, Russell’s winning words soon made his reputation. Moving his practice from Lewes to Brighton, the sickly rich soon arrived in droves ‘to take the waters’ under his guidance. ‘Doctor Brighton’ as a medical cure was born and the little fishing village, then known as Brighthelmstone, was transformed by high society seeking Russell’s miracle cure. Not to be beaten, other places such as Worthing and Bognor soon followed Brighton’s lead, offering a good dose of seawater alongside their own special brand of fashion and elegance.
Drinking salty sea water was only part of the health cure. The other was immersion (as distinct from swimming) that saw the invention of the wheeled bathing machine. Taking the plunge directly from the beach being discouraged to preserve bathers’ modesty, these wooden huts on their high wheels were hauled in and out of the water from where the ‘dipper’ would immerse the bather into the sea by dipping. The salt water and ‘sea air … impregnated with minute saline particles’ were so good for the skin, according to ‘A Hand-Book of Bathing’ published in 1841 in its astonishingly detailed 146 pages of advice. It sternly warned ‘that swimming causes too much exhaustion, and opens the road to too many dangerous consequences … and … may be classed with other exhausting or dangerous sports, such as a steeple-chase … or a tiger hunt’. The sea should be used as a hospital, for serious business, certainly not for fun.
FAMILY RUN BUSINESS WITH OVER 30 YRS EXPERIENCE FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING NEEDS
ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION UNDERTAKEN.
30+ years’ experience of providing the complete service for obtaining; Planning Permission & Building Regulations Consent including Structural Calculations & Party Wall Awards
FBEng. MRICS. MFPWS. Chartered Surveyor Building Engineer Party Wall Surveyor 07764 578781
keith@keithchandler.co.uk www.keithchandler.co.uk
HR
IN FOCUS
BY TANYA SMITH AND GEMMA GUINEY
HOW TO … WITH THE HR HOUSE. YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
We have received some great questions from our monthly articles! So, this month we thought we’d share the most frequently asked …
Q. ‘I have recently returned to work after 4.5 years at home with my children. I love my new part-time job. I thought I could manage it around my family commitments, but I just can’t make it work – in the last month alone I have had to take time off and arrange to leave work early. I would hate to leave but I feel as though I’m letting my new employer down. Is it time to resign and admit defeat?’
A. PLEASE don’t admit defeat. You have options! From 06th April ‘24 all employees have the day 1 right to request flexible working. Think about what hours you can realistically do and how this could work for the business. Could you reduce your hours slightly? Can any of the work be done remotely? Can you make up lost hours at a later date? Is there the option of flexi hours? Put your request in writing and ask your manager if you can meet to discuss this. Be mindful that your employer does not have to agree to your request – but they do need to consider it and respond to you within 2 months.
Q. ‘I own my own business; it’s just been me so far, but I now need an extra pair of hands as it’s getting busy. I’m not sure what contract type to use. What if the business slows down and I have employed someone, then I need to let them go?’
A. Congratulations on your growing business! If you are likely to need these extra pair of hands on a regular basis, this would suggest that you need a permanent employed role. However, if you are likely to need someone one week and not the next, or only at peak times, this sounds like a subcontractor contract would fit well. Or, you could even opt for a fixed term contract. This allows you to employ someone for a fixed amount of time with a clear start and end date. If your business continues to grow you can always extend the term, or decide to employ them permanently.
Q. ‘My teenager has a long summer ahead of him once his GCSE’s are completed. He hasn’t had a job before. Any hints or tips on how he can go about getting a summer job?’
A. Applying for roles, attending interviews and speaking to employers about any vacancies they might have are all brilliant ways of gaining experience and honing interpersonal skills. Make sure you have an upto-date CV, that’s laid out in a clear and concise format and seek out work experience opportunities that you can add to it. Whether it’s washing cars, a paper round or gardening, it’s a brilliant way of showing a prospective employer that you can turn up on time, be responsible and follow instructions. Don’t forget, there are restrictions on working hours for young workers – the Gov.uk website is a great resource for further information.
For further information, HR queries or to send in aquestion visit: https://www.thehrhouseconsultancy.co.uk or email: enquiries@thehrhouseconsultancy.co.uk
Gemma Guiney and Tanya Smith.
Clubs, Classes and Events
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How can we help you plan for the future?
by Mark Riley, Founder & Managing Partner, MJR Solicitors
Sorting out life planning matters is something many people put off until the proverbial rainy day. While you might not want to think about preparing for later life, or what could happen if your health declines, it’s important to take action while you can. We never know what life has in store for us but failing to prepare for the cost of care, becoming incapacitated without a Power of Attorney in place or dying without a Will could result in extra stress for you and your loved ones at an already difficult time. While some people may take the DIY route to life planning, going it alone can be fraught with problems. Get the documentation wrong or fail to understand the more complex aspects of what you’re doing, and you may run into problems in the future. Without the right guidance, you may find you don’t make the most of your assets or they won’t end up in the right hands.
Consulting a good solicitor is a sensible way to give you and your family peace of mind that your affairs are in order. We can ensure that any paperwork is completed properly and give you detailed, professional advice on a wide range of issues. This includes:
Making a Will You want to know that your loved ones will be taken care of after you pass. While you might be tempted by a DIY Will, making mistakes in your Will or dying intestate may mean your assets don’t go where you want them to. And with the number of inheritance disputes rising every year, overlooking mistakes could leave your assets at the centre of a family feud. We will help to minimise potential issues and ensure your family are well provided for.
Inheritance Tax Planning
With so many ongoing changes, it can be hard to keep up with what’s happening on the Inheritance Tax front. Consulting a legal professional gives you the best chance of mitigating your Inheritance Tax liability and having the latest, expert advice on which to base your financial decisions.
Paying for care in later life
The social care crisis has left many wondering how they will afford care fees should they need assistance in older age. While a lot of people assume they will have to sell their home to pay for care, it’s not always the case. We will be
able to explain all the funding options available to you, so that you are able to make more informed decisions and feel less worried about being able to afford any support you may need in later life.
Lasting Power of Attorney
None of us know what will happen in the future, so it’s wise to plan for most eventualities. Should you lose the mental capacity to make your own financial, health and welfare decisions, you want them to be in the hands of people you trust. Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney means you can declare who has the authority to act on your behalf, and spares your loved ones from having to go through a stressful legal process to acquire the necessary authority after the fact.
Setting up a trust
A trust is a good way to safeguard your assets and ensure your family are well taken care of for the future. There are a number of reasons why you might want to set up a trust, from protecting assets and gifting money, to paying care fees or providing managed funds to someone vulnerable. We can guide you through your options and process of setting up, managing and terminating trusts as needed.
Book your free 30-minute consultation with us today to discuss the best options for you.
Trusted, knowledgeable, by your side
Tel: 01243 945054
info@mjrsolicitors.co.uk
www.mjrsolicitors.co.uk
Recent Client Feedback:
“Having never used a Solicitor before we found the whole experience easy, relaxed and, although a legal matter, it had an informal feel whilst being professional.”
Regardless of your age or current health or wealth status, it’s never too early to take steps to ensure that your loved ones are protected in the future in case of your death or if you were ill and unable to make your own decisions. With our wealth of knowledge, our legal experts can help you plan and protect your family’s future and ensure your wishes are fulfilled.
At MJR we can provide a full range of future life planning services including Wills, Trusts, LPA’s and Inheritance Tax Planning to help protect both you and your family’s future.
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JULY AND AUGUST HOROSCOPES
BY LOCAL ASTROLOGER LETICIA PARMER
More good news for the Summer months. Life on Earth is all about learning (through our difficulties) and the planet that most brings us restrictions and disciplinary lessons is Saturn. So you'll be pleased to hear that from the start of July and all through August Saturn's power and influence will be reduced, making your life-journey easier and lighter.
ARIES
After all your rushing around you can enjoy well-earned rest, free to catch up on sleep, chill-out and relaxation
TAURUS
Your whole social scene takes an upward turn. Friends who were distant or unavailable come back to support you.
GEMINI
Recently duty, career, father or status have been a drag, but this Summer you'll make your mark and gain respect.
CANCER
Travel becomes a pleasure once again instead of a chore. Same applies to courses you've been teaching or studying.
LEO
It has been hard to let go of certain people and things, but you now reap the benefit of the space that's been cleared.
VIRGO
Partnership and legal restrictions ease up during the summer, bringing more harmony, fairness and balance.
LIBRA
Health, tension and workload have been quite stressful this year, but summer brings less anxt and much more fun.
SCORPIO
Kids and creativity both cease to be a chore, instead becoming relaxing, rewarding and lighthearted this summer.
SAGITTARIUS
If your abode and mother have been weighing you down, now you can at last reap the rewards of all that discipline.
CAPRICORN
Words and getting around have been sapping your energy. This summer brings easier mobility and communications.
AQUARIUS
You've been going through a long period of learning financial discipline. Happily those pressures ease up for now.
PISCES
Personal restrictions and pressures ease up now, bringing you the chance to get out there and truly shine your light.
For your full Astrological Chart and answers to all questions about your life 07956 155105 or email leticiaparmer@yahoo.com
Please
BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE
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BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE
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Please mention BERSTED IN FOCUS when responding to adverts
WHEN THE LIGHTS TURN TO GREEN
BY KATE STEWART
WHEN THE LIGHTS TURN TO GREEN is the debut novel written by Felphambased author Jan More. It tells the story of Francis Doyle, a young woman, taking a break from her job in London, to visit, for the first time, the land of her deceased father, Ireland. She meets, on the ferry crossing, an under-cover officer of the Garda, investigating a gang of criminals operating around the quiet back waters of the southern Irish coast. Romance, murder, intrigue and the discovery of an unusual family member unfold in this absorbing and beautifully, descriptive tale that transports, then immerses the reader in Francis' new life changing experiences.
The story is set in the 1980's, so with the absence of mobile phones and computers, together with the quaintness and beauty of this part of Ireland, makes perfect escapist material; except best not to get too relaxed. This story has an edge!
Jan, now retired, has lived in Felpham for the past 23 years. London born, she moved to Bognor Regis in 1969 with her parents, more recently running two successful businesses in hospitality and retail with her husband Paul. It was her love of genealogy that led her to write about Ireland, having traced her ancestors to the very places in County Cork, she has researched and now written about in this story. While what unfolds is fictional, the criminal activities central to the story, may resonate.
This book is easy reading, quite unique and worth a place on anyone's holiday reading list.
UKHARVEST FIGHTING FOOD WASTE WITH YOUR SUPPORT
BY JO LODGE
The amount of food wasted each year is constantly growing as is the rise in households struggling to feed their families. At UKHarvest, we invite anyone conscious of reducing their food waste to find out the social and environmental impacts and find out how they can help.
UKHarvest is a leading environmental and social impact charity dedicated to preventing food waste and food insecurity across the South of England. Located in Donnington, just outside Chichester, UKHarvest provides support for everyone that needs it through our community food hubs, community events and online education programme.
Every initiative we offer brings people together through food, for the most meaningful impact. We support and nurture those experiencing food insecurity and food poverty across the South. Working closely with a range of charities including the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Christians against Poverty and MindUK and we strive to connect our community with the suitable agencies to help in challenging times.
Due to a rise in activity, we have recently increased volunteer opportunities across the charity, from supporting the team in the warehouse, to driving our vans across the country. With an incredible team of regular volunteers, we also offer opportunities at our community food hubs and in our training kitchen.
As part of our ongoing mission to nourish our nation, we also offer a range of online educational resources, helping all to reduce their food bill, prevent food waste at home and help and support everyone to feel confident in the kitchen.
To find out more about us, volunteer or donate visit our website www.ukharvest.org.uk or email info@ukharvest.org.uk Social media handle: @ukharvest
FREE SUMMER PLAY
We are very happy to be able to provide the Free Summer Play Scheme again this year in association with Freedom Leisure. It will take place from week commencing 29 July to week commencing 26 August. Venues are at Bersted Hub on Wednesdays, Bersted Park on Thursdays and Jubilee Fields on Fridays all days 10am – 12pm.
We will be providing a bouncy castle (no Bouncy Castle at Bersted Hub) and various outdoor games, Arts and crafts, and a food bag for children. Tea, coffee and snacks are available at a small cost. Tombola stall, pre-loved school uniform stall and visits from Harvest UK, Rotary Club, My Sister’s House and Food Bank to name but a few.
We are gratefully supported with additional funding this year from the Rotary Club Hotham Park and Tesco Community Grant Scheme.
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 19 August - 1900 for 1945 hrs
‘‘The British Airliner Collection at Duxford’ presented by Mr David Norman
The British Airliner Collection is the world’s premier collection of post second World War British civil airliners and illustrates the unique contribution made by British designers and manufacturers to the development of commercial aviation.
Several of these aircraft were world firsts and two are the only known surviving examples of their type. The collection began in 1974 with the arrival of a Comet 4, which, in 1958, was the aircraft that made the first scheduled Eastbound transatlantic crossing by a jet airliner. The collection has grown to 13 aircraft, including Concorde 101. The aircraft displayed, range from a De Havilland Dove that first flew in 1948, to the more recent acquisition, a BAE 146 (whisper jet), retired from the Royal Squadron. AirACES is an aviation talk society, providing its members with regular talks, given by experts in many different fields related to the world of aviation.
NEW VENUE – Boxgrove Village Hall, The Street, Boxgrove, PO18 0EE
7.00pm for 7.45pm 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 07502 400657.
