Bersted In Focus May 2024

BERSTED IN FOCUS

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Dear All,

It’s May and we are celebrating all the wonderful artists, crafters and creative people we have in our community. There is so much talent on our doorstep so please do try and make time to drop in and visit artists taking part in the Chichester Open Studios Art Trail this month. See pages 10-11 to find out who you can visit locally in Bognor, Felpham, Barnham and beyond.

One such artist is last month’s In Focus Artist of the Month, Laurie Avadis, who painted our wonderful, Bersted in Focus front cover this month. To see more of his work visit Laurieavadisart.com or chichesteropenstudios.org

Last, but not least, the 11th Bognor Regis Scouts based in Bersted are looking for volunteers to help out at scout meetings for as little or as much time as you can spare. See page 43 to find out more.

Good luck to all those taking part in the May 2024 Bognor Prom 10K – let’s hope the sun shines! Best wishes, 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

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A FUNDRAISING TRIUMPH BY JAMES STEWART

Felpham resident, Darwin George Short, was always destined for a lifelong love affair with motorbikes. He and his two brothers were named after three Australian speedway riders from the 1930s (Darwin, Lloyd and Cordell. His father, Albert, raced bikes (as did his brothers) and George bought his first bike aged 16 in 1966 (a Triumph Tiger Cub) for £5.00 from a scrap shop in South Wimbledon. George quickly stripped back the bike, restored it to its former glory and the rest is history.

George now owns a vintage collection of Triumph bikes which he displays at shows across Sussex including the Goodwood Revival. The bike featured below is probably his favourite – a Triumph Tiger 90, with all the classic trimmings!

George has held a range of posts in our community over the years including Bersted Parish Councillor and Chairman of the Bersted Residents’ Association. He is also the proud membership secretary of the Sussex British Motorcycle Owners Club. The Club is open to anyone who owns or has an interest in British motorcycles. The members meet every Monday at the Clymping Village Hall and everyone is welcome. The Club undertakes regular runs across West Sussex and attends many shows throughout the year.

George is very proud of the work the Club does to raise funds to support local children’s charity, Kamelia Kids, which runs a day nursery and beach school for all children, particularly those with special and additional needs.

George Short, front middle.

If you own a motorcycle and would like to help George fundraise the Martlet Run is on Sunday 28 April and the Bulldog Run is Sunday 22 September. For more details visit www.sbmoc.co.uk and to find out more about the fantastic work of Kamelia Kids visit www.kameliakids.org.uk

George Short.

LOCAL HISTORY BY

SYLVIA ENDACOTT

As you watch activities at sea, spare a thought for the people who have operated on our seashore for over 300 years and who were here before Sir Richard Hotham arrived. Fishermen have quietly gone about their work without much recognition. Trade from the sea has been important over the years and our fishermen have certainly helped here in Bognor Regis with their produce even being supplied to royal tables. Town guides around 1905 reported that “the finest prawns from Bognor were served to the King.”

Lobsters have also been important so that in the early days of Crested China the Lobster pot was ‘the’ shape produced for Bognor. The withies (willows) were cut around Christmas in an area near Pagham and then dipped in tar for preservation, which weighted the pots down and carried them to the seabed whilst being baited with pieces of fish. Each of the boats would work about 200 pots. They could sell their prawns in London at one guinea per lb.

The families involved in fishing include the Allens, Ide, Marner, Ragless, Wellfares and Taylor, many of whom are still connected with the sea. These men and their crews have worked along our seashore and provided work and food for the town. They have played a major part in our area’s history, helping to build the pier extension in 1912. They carried the coffin of Mary Wheatland to South Bested church, and today have an excellent sales stand on the seafront to enable us to enjoy their regular catches.

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 20 May - 1900 for 1945 hrs

‘Halton Brat to Air Ambulance Pilot – and beyond’ Presented by Mick Patrick

NEW VENUE - BOXGROVE VILLAGE HALL, THE STREET, BOXGROVE PO18 0EE

There was no grand plan. “When I, Mick Patrick, joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice I could not have known that it would lead to a career in aircraft engineering, pilot, instructor and airline safety auditor.”

Later on, as Mick reflects on his 62 years of employment, there will be recollections of the many challenges, close encounters and redundancies fought through his stay in the aviation business.

Mick says: “There were difficult times but also some of my happiest and fulfilling times. Would I do it again? You bet.”

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.

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TRAILING THE TALENT

Why not enjoy some May time following the Chichester Open Studio’s Trail. Several artists and makers are in Felpham, Bilsham and Flansham, exhibiting work for you to enjoy. Discover friendly faces giving you time to look, feel and question the provenance of their art. It’s easy to follow the trail with the colourful brochure* in your hand. Clear signage will be also displayed at each studio.

In Felpham, there are seven artists to visit with a variety of work from ceramics to candles, acrylics, pen and ink to pastels, and watercolour to oil paints. Felpham’s Trail stalwarts are delighted to open for you: Peter Hutton (Ashmere Lane), Hilary Frame (Manor Close) and Marion Whitcomb (The Grove) with newcomers Laurie Avadis (The Loop), Linda Farr and Michelle Redford (Drygrounds Lane).

In Outerwyke Road, Nick Crimmen is an exciting newcomer with his eye-catching, conversation pieces that will make you smile. He is fascinated by cartoons, and he brings them to life. No one on the Studio Trail has work like Nick’s. On the Felpham fringes, two popular artists are Susie Olford at Hoe Lane, Flansham with over 100 oil and acrylic

Gill Hunter – The Hare, hand built ceramic.

Nick Crimmen – 50’s Faces.

Susie Olford – No

Swimming Today, oil on wood panel.

paintings displayed in a light-filled barn and Gill Hunter-Nudds at Bilsham with her delightful, hand-built ceramics depicting wildlife such as hares and foxes which are garden and indoor sculptures.

The subjects depicted at these studios vary enormously: caricatures, animals and wildlife, the botanical and floral world, Sussex buildings, vintage vehicles, wine, still life, seascapes, and landscapes. Most artists have greeting cards from their original ideas. Talented local artists await your visit to view art in its many styles. There is something to excite everyone and the artists hope you will be inspired by these images.

The Trail website www.chichesteropenstudios.org has full details of all the artists, plus maps with post codes so you can locate all the studios and plan your route.

*Full colour brochures are available to collect from your library or one of the studios.

Dates: 18 and 19 May; 25, 26, and 27 May 2024. Open 10:30am-5.00pm. Hillary Frame – North Walls, watercolour.

DREAMS ARE FREE

BY LISA HOARE

This is an evening of jazz at the University of Chichester – Dreams are free a celebration of Bobby Wellins

We will be celebrating the life and music of British jazz icon, Bobby Wellins (1936-2016). Presenting the intimate biopic “Dreams Are Free” and a live set from the cream of British jazz, this event is a special collaboration made possible with the support of Chichester University Conservatoire and Head of Jazz, Nick Reynolds, exstudent of Bobby’s.

Bobby had a long and varied career working with many great artists such as Stan Tracey, Ronnie Scott and Charlie Watts. His original sound, influence and contributions have left an indelible mark on the history of British jazz. He was based in Bognor Regis for 40 years and also played and taught locally. Event proceeds will go to Sage House for Dementia Support, a local charity who helped Bobby’s wife, Isabella, in her dementia in later years. Isabella’s support for Bobby was fundamental to his long career.

Tickets are £12 are to book visit: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/universityofchic.../t-nozekxy

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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You can directly access our full team of dental hygienists: Elizabeth Goodchild, Jane Gander and Helen Carter even if you are not a registered patient.

Emergency Dental Care

Please call 01243 864663 and speak with Chrissie or Tracey.

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Bognor Regis.PO22 7PF (Opposite Milestones Garage)

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH: DARRYL WHITE

My name is Darryl White. I moved to Felpham from Greater London in 2005. I have lived here for 19 years. I have always enjoyed being creative, be it drawing, painting, or upcycling. My main focus now is producing mosaic with broken ceramic tiles.

Although my subject matter is mostly iconic people, I have created some logos too. I am self-taught. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to attend further art education after leaving school. Having said that, I did have a fantastic teacher in my secondary school called Mr Rayner who ignited my passion for art and crafts.

Each mosaic takes between 70 to 100 hours to complete as each piece is hand cut, nothing is machined. Each mosaic is approximately 60cm x 80cm unframed, I like to experiment with different grout and mix with glitter to add some sparkle. It does take a lot of time and patience, but I do find it very calming and therapeutic when I’m in the studio. I usually spend around four hours a time creating, although I have been known to do an eight-hour stint. Time literally does fly when you are enjoying yourself.

I have sold mosaics privately and through local, fine art galleries. I work full time and mainly create for pleasure now in my spare time, taking on the odd commission now and again.

You can view my work and contact me via Instagram @felpham_mosaics or email: darryl_white@btinternet.com. I also have TikTok @felphammosaics

What’s on at Bersted Jubilee Hall

Subject to change, please call 01243 842221.

Mondays:

U3A beginners Astronomy13 May/10 Jun 2 4pm

Arun A Cappella 7.30 –9pm

Yoga Rebecca (Meeting Rm) 6 7pm

Tuesdays:

Mother & Toddler Group 10 -11.30am

Tai Chi (term time only) 12.30 1.30pm

U3A History Group 28 May/25 Jun 2 –4pm

Council Committee Meetings 7pm

Yoga Rebecca (Meeting Rm) 6 7pm

Wednesdays:

Carpet Bowls 2-3.30pm

Pilates Cordelia 6 7pm cordelia.worsley@gmail.com

Yoga & QiGong (Meeting Rm) 6.30 –8.30pm

Thursdays:

Yoga 1 2.30 2pm

U3A Camera Club 6 Jun 2.30-4.30pm

NBWI 9 May/13 Jun 2.15 - 5pm

Yoga Jake 6 8pm

Pilates Cordelia (Meeting Rm) 6 7pm

cordelia.worsley@gmail.com

Jump to Fit (Meeting Rm) 7 8pm

Friday

Happy Heart Toddler Group 9.30-11am

Nicki Baby Yoga (Meeting Rm) 9.30 11.30am

Kerry Lane Pilates (Meeting Rm) 11.45 12.30pm

Carpet Bowls 2 3.30pm

Saturdays:

Bognor Regis Art Society11 May/1 & 22 Jun 2 - 5pm

Sundays:

Open Heart Church Group 10 2pm

2 MAY Police & Crime Commissioner election.

Tea & Coffee Club Friday 24 May 7pm (Electors’)

Monday 17 June —2 - 4pm

Bersted Parish Council public meetings start at 7pm on a Tuesday.

MAY

Planning— 7 May Council AGM 14 May Community Action 21 May Finance 28 May

JUNE Planning 4 June

11 June Finance 25 June

Councillor Vacancies

Why not Join Bersted Parish Council?

We are looking for 3 new Parish Councillors could it be you?

If you are interested contact the clerk on 01243 842221 or email: clerk@bersted-pc.gov.uk

WSCC Greenprint project.

Greenprint is an innovative project exploring the potential for using grass cuttings from highway verges in the production of biofuels and road materials.

Three parishes have been chosen, Aldwick, Bersted and Pagham. They will be investing in cut and collect machines to do the grass verges in the three parishes, starting from the next scheduled grass cut in each parish.

Summer Playscheme

Once again Bersted Parish Council are funding a Summer playscheme July/August –see our website for details:

Wednesdays– Hub, Hazel Road PO22 9HT

Thursday-Bersted Park

Fridays –Jubilee Field, PO21 5TU.

Litter Pick

Saturday 18 May 11am at Central Avenue

Bersted Parish Council, Jubilee Hall, Chalcraft Lane, Bersted, PO21 5TU, 01243 842221 clerk@bersted-pc.gov.uk www.bersted-pc.gov.uk

Saturday 15 June 11am at Shripney

WHY ARE SWIFTS SO AMAZING?

BY ROY NEWMAN

May sees the return of one of our most remarkable birds, the swift. Longer winged than the martins and swallows that arrived in March and April, they look like little black anchors as they zoom across the sky. As a child I remember ‘screaming parties’ of swifts racing between the houses where I lived and nesting under the eaves. On hot summer days I’d watch them hurtling in groups high above and imagined they were WW2 fighter pilots dogfighting.

So, what does make these birds so extraordinary? To start with they are fast. The peregrine is well documented as officially being the fastest bird, but this is only in a steep dive called a stoop. Our swift holds the record for the fastest proven level flight, recording an impressive top speed of 69.3mph

They also fly incredibly long distances. On migration they can fly over 500 miles a day. However, probably the most startling fact about swifts is that when they leave their natal nest for the first time, they will not land again for 3 years! They eat, drink, and mate on the wing. To drink, they catch raindrops in the air or fly low over ponds and skim water off. Incredibly, they even sleep while flying. Spiralling up to an altitude of 10,000ft, they switch off one side of their brain to ‘snooze’, while correcting for wind drift, so they wake up where they fell asleep.

Originally swifts would have nested in holes in large trees and crevices in caves and on cliffs. These days our UK population depends almost entirely on buildings – under the roofs of old houses or ‘swift boxes’ attached to the walls. The nest is made with materials the bird can catch in flight, such as straw, leaves, seeds and feathers, bonded together using their own saliva. The female will lay two or three eggs which both parents will incubate and hatch after about three weeks. Feeding exclusively on insects they hunt over a wide variety of habitats, from meadows and open water, to woods, towns and cities. Amazingly they are able to avoid stinging insects like wasps and bees, whilst still catching no-stinging insects that mimic them such as hoverflies and all at breakneck speed. The parents collect the insects in a special food pouch at the back of the throat, bound by saliva to create a ball or ‘bolus’ which can then be fed to the chicks. These food balls can contain over a thousand insects.

To prepare themselves for their aerial life, swift chicks start to exercise and get in shape, by performing ‘press-ups’ on their wings. By eight weeks they are ready to take the first and longest flight of their lives. Having their nest high up they literally drop and are off.

Swifts pair up for life and meet up at the same nest site each spring. As more and more old buildings are demolished or renovated, many swifts are returning to discover their nest site is gone. Unfortunately, our modern buildings lack the small crevices which swifts need to make their nests on and combined with the decline of their insect prey, UK swift numbers have been dropping at an alarming rate. The RSPB has been working with housing developers to design and incorporate ‘swiftbricks’ in new-builds. These bricks have an entrance hole and chamber inside, in which the swifts can make their nest. However, you don’t need to buy a new house to help swifts, you can buy and mount a ‘swift box’ on your own home – see our online shop for details www.rspb.org.uk/shop

You can also help by telling us where you see nesting swifts, helping to build up a picture of where swift nest sites need to be protected and where it would be best to provide new nest sites. You can do this online by searching Swift Mapper or by downloading the Swift Mapper app.

This spring and summer look up and keep an eye out for our swifts whizzing around high above, true masters of the skies. And when you do see them, remember just how amazing these birds really are.

Visit our website https://events.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour or call 01243 641508.

Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)

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DOUBLE CHEESE AND SPRING VEGETABLE TART

This light and savoury teatime tart has a wonderfully crisp base.

Preparation time: 30 mins. Cooking time: 1 hour. Serves: 8.

INGREDIENTS

500g block shortcrust pastry plain flour, for dusting

25g mature cheddar, finely grated.

200g asparagus spears, woody ends trimmed.

100g frozen peas 2 eggs

100g crème fraîche

150g double cream whole nutmeg, for grating

100g watercress

2 x 150g logs of soft, rindless goat’s cheese.

METHOD

• Take the pastry out of the fridge ten minutes before starting.

• Lightly dust the work surface with flour then roll the pastry out into a rectangle.

• Scatter the grated cheese over the rolled-out pastry, fold the pastry in half and roll out again into a circle that fits a 25cm tart tin. Leave the edges of the pastry slightly overhanging the edge of the tin. Pop it in the fridge for 20 mins to chill.

• Meanwhile, cook the asparagus in boiling water for 3 mins, then drain and refresh under cold water. Defrost the frozen peas.

• Preheat the oven to 200C / 180C fan / gas 6. Prick the base of the tart well with a fork, line with baking parchment and fill with baking beans or dried lentils. Bake the tart for 15 mins, remove the parchment and beans, prick again if it has puffed up, then bake for another 10-15 mins until golden brown.

• Meanwhile, beat the eggs in a bowl, add the crème fraîche and cream, season and add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Scatter the peas and most of the watercress over the tart and crumble over half the goat’s cheese. Pour over the creamy egg mixture, then lay the asparagus spears on top. Finally, slice the remaining goat’s cheese and arrange on top, then bake for 25-30 mins until the custard is just set and the cheese is golden brown. Leave to cool in the tin, trim the edges of the pastry. Remove from the tin, cut into slices, and serve with the remaining watercress.

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

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A GOOD READ

BY NATASHA DONOVAN

The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa

This is a hauntingly beautiful and dystopian novel that delves into the fragility of memory and the essence of loss. Set on an unnamed island, the story unfolds in a world where objects and concepts are systematically disappearing, erased from existence and memory by the enigmatic Memory Police.

Ogawa's writing is elegantly simple yet profoundly deep, weaving a tale that is as much a melancholic meditation on memory as it is a compelling story of resistance and survival. The island's inhabitants, resigned to the relentless loss of their surroundings, adapt to each disappearance with a troubling nonchalance. This eerie acceptance of loss is one of the novel's most chilling aspects, highlighting the insidious nature of the Memory Police's power.

The narrative is centred around a young novelist who struggles to preserve her memories and those of the island's inhabitants. With the help of an old man and a risk-taking editor who is immune to the forgetfulness, she attempts to defy the Memory Police by hiding her editor in a secret room. Their struggle against the inevitable tide of forgetfulness forms the heart of the story, illustrating the human capacity for resilience in the face of oppressive forces.

The atmosphere of subtle suspense and creeping dread imbues the story with a quiet intensity. The characters are sketched with a delicate touch, yet they are profoundly relatable in their quest to hold onto their memories and identities. This struggle against the erasure of memory becomes a powerful metaphor for the larger human experience of loss and the effort to preserve our own pasts.

The Memory Police is not just a story about an authoritarian regime's control over personal memories; it is also a reflection on the impermanence of existence. Ogawa explores the idea that what makes us human is not just our ability to remember but also our capacity for empathy and connection.

Clem and Crab by Fiona Lumbers

This is a lovely story about cleaning up our beaches. The story is a simple one: Clem loves to search the beach for things to put in her bucket. After a fun day at the seaside, Clem finds a Crab with its claw tangled in a plastic bag. She wants to take him home and keep him safe, but reluctantly lets him go back to the sea after her sister explains it's where he belongs. On her way home on the bus, Clem finds Crab tucked away in her trouser leg, and Crab ends up going on an adventure to Clem's school and inspires Clem to want to help clear the beaches of horrible plastic junk.

The story is fun and easy to follow, and the illustrations are charming. The environmental message is there but it’s never preachy. It's a nice gentle introduction for children about the importance of taking care of our planet.

Down

2. English actress _______ Hart (7)

3. Father Christmas (5)

4. Evidence, proof (13)

5. Automated payment (8,5)

6. Educated (7)

7. Metal alloy (5)

CROSSWORD

Across 1. Pleasantly occupied (6)

5. Douse, drench (6)

8. Wide smile (4)

9. Party game (8)

10. Not damaged (8)

11. Valueless (4)

12. Rush-hour shortcut (informal) (6)

14. Fall asleep (informal) (6)

16. Minor confrontation (4)

18. Ratifying, embracing (8)

20. Appeased (8)

21. Three squared (4)

22. Causes hay fever (6)

23. Win back, pay off (6)

13. Hear the same legal case again (7)

15. Economic affairs (7)

17. Keyboard instrument (5)

19. Fit, sleek (5)

THE DAILY GRIND BY KIM LESLIE

Q. How many hours are the men on the wheel? A. About nine hours daily.

Q. Is the treadwheel applied to productive labour? A. Not at all.

Q. Is it ever used for any productive purpose? A. No, for nothing but punishment.

The exchanges droned on one April day in 1863 as their lordships on the Select Committee on Prisons examined the governor of Petworth Prison.

The prison treadwheel was the most feared of hard-labour punishments. As a form of punishment, the wheel was recommended by the Penitentiary Act of 1779, directing that prisoners be kept ‘to labour of the hardest and most servile kind, in which drudgery is chiefly required’. To its advocates, the beauty of the wheel was both in its simplicity and efficiency. Some treadwheels even raised an income for prisons, such as turning millstones for grinding flour. Others, as at Petworth, did nothing but ‘grind the wind’ as contemporaries said. It was useless toil, to break a man’s spirit.

The Petworth wheel was designed as a long circular drum to accommodate sixteen prisoners at a time. The circumference was made in the form of steps. The prisoners walked as if continually going upstairs. But instead of going up, the steps dropped down beneath them. The actual ‘work’ wasn’t so much in turning the wheel as in lifting the body each time the steps fell away underneath. Total concentration was needed all the time. Many legs were mangled and crushed in careless moments. Falling asleep from monotony, nine hours at a stretch, was hazardous. What made matters worse was that the prison operated under the Silent and Separate System. All communication between prisoners by word, gesture or sound was forbidden. On the wheel, though close to one another, prisoners were separated by partition walls, each man enclosed in an individual compartment. In this way, each was forced in upon himself, to reflect and suffer, the only sound the creaking of the ever-turning wheel. It was a daily journey into hell.

Petworth Prison was demolished in 1882. Two traces of the prison survive today. Names of prisoners scratched into the brickwork of the old prison wall can still be read near the Grove Street/

Rosemary Lane junction. Further down the lane, to the left, just one building remains, the main prison office, now a private residence. In his Ballad of Reading Gaol, Oscar Wilde gave an insight into the terrors of these Victorian prisons: ‘… every prison that men build / Is built with bricks of shame, /And bound with bars lest Christ should see / How men their brothers maim’. What a contrast between these Petworth ‘bricks of shame’ and the peaceful pleasant little town we know today.

LITTLE SWITZERLAND IN HAMPSHIRE

BY SIMON BAKER IRONS

A challenging walk of 7km with a 200m height gain rewards you with some fantastic views across Hampshire and Sussex. Ashford Hangers is a National Nature Reserve near Steep just north of Petersfield and is one of Hampshire’s most beautiful areas. The name "Little Switzerland" has been given to this part of Hampshire due to its magnificent scenery, woodlands, and steep chalk hillsides. The name 'hanger' comes from the Old English 'hangra' meaning a wooded slope.

The Hangers have important historical connections with the 18th century naturalist Gilbert White and the poet Edward Thomas. On Shoulder-of-Mutton Hill there is a plaque to the poet Edward Thomas as this is where he lived before his death. Access to the Hangers by road is not easy, but there are many footpaths and tracks that are popular with walkers.

• The walk starts in the little village of Steep, parking is on the road near to All Saints church, a short visit to the church will enable you to see the two lancet windows, dedicated to the poet Edward Thomas.

• Walk West along Church Road to The Cricketers pub, turn left and shortly after taking the public footpath. Head through the open fields to Ashford Lane.

• Turn right into the tree-lined lane that has many ferns on its high banks, following this towards Ashford Hangers, make sure you pause to enjoy the fine views of the wooded and grassland slopes of Ashford Hill and Shoulder of Mutton Hill.

• Take the Hangers Way path (a through route linking Petersfield, Selborne and Alton) and walk through the wooded glade following the shallow, clear waters of the Ashford Stream, past Lutcombe Pond, to Lutcombe Bottom and then start to ascend the steep slopes. The bridleway climbs steeply up Ashford Hill and teases you with glimpses of the fine views through the yew trees and bank-side ferns. Keep on the Hangers Way footpath to Shoulder of Mutton Hill, where the Edward Thomas memorial stone now stands.

• Atop Shoulder of Mutton Hill are panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and across to the South Downs. For some spectacular views to the north, follow Litten Lane to the trig point on Wheatham Hill, on a clear day the views of the Hangers towards Selborne are stunning.

• Descend the Hangers down to Ashford Farm, watch out for the free range chicken wandering on the path. Turn right back on to Ashford Lane and follow for a short way before rejoining the Hangers Way. Follow track alongside the chalk stream though Ashford Chase to Mill Lane, where you can see the small waterfall at the side of the path. At my time of visiting the fall was in full flow and spilling over into the road following some really heavy rain.

• Keep ahead on Mill Lane to T-junction and war memorial site – where Edward Thomas’ name appears in the roll of honour for Steep.

• A short walk back along Church Lane completes the walk.

To see more photos and walks please follow me on Instagram @piertopiertrekking

NUTRITIOUS NETTLES BY RACHEL LEVERTON

As a novice gardener I spent a lot of time pulling out nettles from the overgrown patch I inherited when I bought my first home. Fast forward twenty years and I have learnt that I was doing the humble nettle a disservice.

Contrary to their reputation for stinging and being a pervasive nuisance, nettles offer numerous (and free) benefits. These include serving as a rich, nutrient source for your garden, attracting helpful insects, and even being a delightful edible option when gathered properly.

You can leverage the nutrient-rich nature of nettles by making a homemade, organic liquid fertilizer. Nettles are packed with some fabulous garden-friendly elements such as nitrogen, calcium, and magnesium, all vital for plant growth.

Any part of the plant can be used, even the older, tougher parts, and the process is straightforward. Chop the nettles and pack them into a sealable container (to mitigate any unpleasant smells) before submerging them in water. Let the mixture sit for about a month to create a potent nettle tea. Dilute this tea with water in a ratio of 1:10 for a nutrient-rich feed, ideal for nurturing leafy greens like kale, chard, and spinach.

Nettles also double as an excellent mulch for bigger plants or fruit bushes and act as a compost accelerator by enhancing the breakdown process in your compost pile. However, avoid using the roots or seeds, to prevent unintended growth.

By allowing some nettles to grow on your patch, you support the lifecycle of butterfly species such as red admiral, small tortoiseshell, painted lady, and comma butterflies, and also offer a habitat for beneficial insects such as ladybirds, which control aphid populations and other garden pests.

In addition to their usefulness in the garden, nettles are a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Using gloves to avoid the stings, nettles can be harvested and used just like spinach, boasting a similar high iron content. They're perfect for steaming or as the base for a soup - blend boiled potatoes and tender nettles with vegetable stock, season and enrich with a spoon of cream for a hearty dish … perfect after a day working in the garden.

Happy gardening.

SING IN THE AFTERNOON

If you love to sing and have always wondered what it’s like to be in a fun community CHOIR, now’s the chance to find out! The new NO-AUDITION mixed-voice West Sussex Good Afternoon Choir starts on Thursday 18 April from 2pm-4pm at Regis Recital Hall and there’s a warm welcome to go along and find out more.

Bath-based music man, Grenville Jones, started his Good Afternoon Choirs 15 years ago and there are now 26 across the West of England from Gloucestershire to Cornwall. Over 1,000 people ‘Sing in the Afternoon’.

Leader of the West Sussex Good Afternoon Choir is Sam Chara. She is a soprano singer / songwriter, Cabaret artist, and actress who grew up in the Netherlands and was partly raised in France, she now lives locally. Her shows were performed all over Europe; the Montreux-Jazz festival in Switzerland, The Paradiso in Amsterdam, Glastonbury Festival, the Olympic Stadium in Barcelona.

“I’m really looking forward to starting an exciting new community choir for people living in Bognor and Chichester,” she said.

Good Afternoon Choirs sing popular melodies in harmony and each choir raises money for a local charity selected by the members. In 2023 the choirs raised over £30,000 across the West of England. Sam added: “Everyone is welcome to come along on any Thursday afternoon at Regis Recital Hall, 46 Sudley Road, Bognor Regis PO21 1ER from 2pm-4pm. There’s no charge for attending your first rehearsal and there are NO auditions – come along, alone, or with a friend. You can be assured of a warm welcome.”

“Choirs are great for meeting new people and enjoying the best hobby in the world,” adds Grenville, the GAC founder. See www.goodafternoonchoir.org for further information.

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.

Sam Chara, community choir leader.

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TRASH OR TREASURE BY GEMMA BROWN

LET THE CAR BOOT SALE SEASON BEGIN

Car boot sales are a quintessential British tradition where unpredictable British weather meets an equally unpredictable array of goods for sale. You can haggle over the price of a teapot with a missing lid on one stall and buy a questionable painting that may be a lost masterpiece (spoiler: it's not) at another.

Car boot sales are the adult equivalent of a treasure hunt, where X marks the spot, but 'X' is a muddy field somewhere between No-Idea-Where-That-Is and Didn't-Aunty-Sue-Get-Married-Somewhere-NearThere.

Jesting aside, if you're up for a bit of work a car boot sale is a great opportunity to clear out your attic, shed, or spare room while making some cash and enjoying the fresh air.

Begin with a clear out: Sort through your items. Anything from vintage clothing to old records, books, toys, and kitchen gadgets can find a new home. Remember, one person's trash is another's treasure.

• Price to Sell: Be realistic about pricing. Boot sale buyers are looking for bargains. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself what you’d be willing to pay. Label items clearly.

• Presentation is Key: A well-organised stall can make a world of difference to how much you earn. Arrange items so they’re easy to browse. Group similar items together and make sure everything is clean. A little bit of preparation can significantly increase your sales.

• Be Prepared: Bring plenty of change and bags for your customers. Arrive early to get a good spot. A folding table and chair, a flask of coffee and a sandwich can also make your day more comfortable.

• Perfect Your Pitch: Friendly banter and a smile will attract more buyers. Be ready to haggle … it’s an art. The seller starts with a price, the buyer counters with an offer so ridiculously low it's actually insulting, and eventually, you meet somewhere in the middle, each convinced you've outsmarted the other. Just remember that if YOU'RE the one de-cluttering and selling, the object of the exercise is to get rid of everything, not take it all back home with you for the sake of a few pence!

And it's not just about the buying and selling. Car boot sales are essentially a social event, places where you overhear phrases like, "Remember when we nearly set the house on fire with this fondue set?"* or "Do you think anyone will notice this shoe is missing a heel?" *

As the day ends, you head back to your car, hopefully clutter-free and cash-rich if you're a seller, or arms laden with goodies if you were a treasure seeker. And if you're lucky you might overhear a puzzled wife say to her husband, "Why did you buy a unicycle when you can barely ride a bike without stabilisers..." **

Whether you are looking to declutter or in search of a bargain, the car boot sale is great British tradition so check out a local one this month. There may or may not be a woman surreptitiously selling a unicycle. ***

* Actual overheard snippets of conversation from other sellers when we held a car boot sale last year!

** I may or may not have been that puzzled wife.

*** That woman may or may not be me ...

MAY HOROSCOPES

BY LOCAL ASTROLOGER LETICIA PARMER

Pluto's influence is to bring us unexpected twists and turns. For this reason I call it the rollercoaster planet. You will be pleased to hear that Pluto will go retrograde this month, making its influence less powerful. Thus the course of your life should run more smoothly making things more manageable and predictable.

ARIES

Your social calendar becomes easier to manage now as unreliable friends stop chopping and changing their plans.

TAURUS

Career matters settle down into a comfortable routine, which is just what you need to feel more secure about your status.

GEMINI

Travel plans can be made now without those last-minute changes and glitches that have become a familiar frustration lately.

CANCER

Things seem to have been ending and beginning without warning in your life, but at last you settle into a smooth run now.

LEO

Everything to do with partnership or teamwork becomes more comfortable. Yes, now you can helpfully predict their next move.

VIRGO

Because you are a meticulous person it feels good to at last be able to plan the details ahead of time without hitches.

LIBRA

The children have had you on a merry dance for months but at last dealings with them settle into a manageable routine.

SCORPIO

If you have been trying to buy or renovate a property, now it seems the hitches and glitches will be smoothed away.

SAGITTARIUS

Problems with cars and communications fade out so you can reliably and confidently make travel plans and speak your truth.

CAPRICORN

Finances have been all over the place lately, so you will be glad to learn that Pluto makes all money dealings steadier now.

AQUARIUS

Pluto in your own sign has been throwing the cat amongst the pigeons for a while, but at last you feel more in control now.

PISCES

Naturally intuitive and sensitive, you may have had difficulty sorting fact from fiction lately. However, now all becomes clear.

Leticia Parmer

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WHITER THAN WHITE

BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER

The fact that we all like different looks is what makes things interesting in fashion. In the words of Groove Armada – “If everybody looked the same, we’d get tired of looking at each other”! We call this individuality, our ‘style personality’ and whilst there are thousands of styles out there, we identify six main personalities ‘types’. Understanding this can make choosing and putting outfits together easier and helps us see why we’re drawn to some things and wouldn’t touch others with a sartorial barge pole!

One thing that has universal appeal and longevity is the white shirt. Whilst a classic piece, it’s having a fashion moment this season (especially the oversized and long versions). So, to illustrate the concept, I’ve chosen styles from the high street this current season and how each personality might wear theirs. Do you have a white shirt style personality?

The Classic – Claudette Minimalist White shirt by The Shirt Company By default, a Classic loves a crisp white shirt. They like a timeless and co-ordinated look, nothing too ‘out there’. Teamed with smart trousers and loafers, all it needs is some simple elegant jewellery and you’re done.

The Creative – Ruffled Poplin Shirt – by Zara

The polar opposite to Classics, Creatives love to experiment with their look and find quirky and unusual ways of wearing things. They love finding vintage and individual pieces, like this off-centre frill shirt from Zara, paired with bold denim shorts, and chunky sandals.

The Natural – Beach Road Oversized Linen Shirt – by Seasalt Naturals love easy-to-wear and practical pieces. Comfort is key, and unnecessary frills and fuss are a no-go! Natural fabrics are often high priority, so this 100% linen shirt by Seasalt ticks the boxes – throw it on over jeans or shorts and they’re good to go.

The Dramatic – Cut Out Frill Shirt – by River Island

Dramatics love to make a statement! Often on the lookout for the latest trends, they keep up to date with fashion and love a bold piece. They love shopping, and often make impulse buys because they fall in love with something. This amazing blouse by River Island has just the right amount of drama to fit the bill!

The Romantic – Ric Rac Trim blouse by Love and Roses

Romantics love a feminine look. They are into pretty details, florals, and lace. A classic white shirt would be too ‘masculine’ for a romantic, so this scalloped and frill blouse, with its softer collar and blouson sleeve is ideal.

The City Chic – Classic Bib Detail Shirt – by Me & Em

Always put together and co-ordinated, City Chic’s are a stylish bunch, in that ‘not trying too hard’ way. They like simple elegant pieces, but with a contemporary edge. This impeccably tailored shirt by one of my favourite brands (the founder used to live locally in Slindon!) is a modern take on the classic style.

Which one would you choose? Not sure? Want to explore your style personality further? We cover this in my Seriously Stylish consultations – why not get in touch. Vickybooker.com or contact me for info – vicky@vickybooker.com.

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BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE

May 2024, Time Zone GMT

Tidal information is reproduced by kind permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office. Crown Copyright. All Rights reserved.

To contact BERSTED IN FOCUS please email: office@infocusmagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

ART, AGRICULTURE, WALKING AND PRANCING AROUND IN TIGHTS!

23 to 27 May, 11am - 6pm Zimmer Stewart Gallery presents a unique exhibition and talk at South Stoke Barn in collaboration with The Sussex Snowdrop Trust. The exhibition "South Stoke Idyll - A view from the barn".

Friday 24 May, 6.30pm A talk by Ryan Haydon, farmer and Adam Stead, artist, agriculturalist and researcher, with a panel discussion including artists Matt Bodimeade, Nick Bodimeade and Emma Hurst, led by James Stewart from the Zimmer Stewart Gallery. Tickets £15, include glass of Digby Fine English fizz on arrival. This event is sponsored by Sims Williams, Arundel.

Sunday 26 May, The Sussex Snowdrop Trust invites you to South Stoke Barn to view the exhibition and find out more about the farm. Bring a picnic - tea and cakes are provided from 3-5pm for a donation. Venue: South Stoke Barn, near Arundel, BN18 9PF

Sunday 12 May – 1pm - 3pm Charity Walk at Arundel Castle Estate Park -BN18 9AU. Come on the day or register in advance. Queries call 01243 572433. Walk 1 mile or 3 miles and enjoy refreshments, music and stalls.

Family Friendly. Dogs on leads welcome.

Saturday 15 June from 7pm “Prancing around in tights!” – Hugh Bonneville in Conversation at Arundel Castle, Lower Lawns, BN18 9AB Sparkling wine and canapes Tickets £35 (to find out about all these events visit www.thesussexsnowdroptrust.com) – limited availability – book early.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Solution to Mindbenders

1. The fast lane.

2. Man overboard.

3. Pie in the sky.