BERSTED IN FOCUS
Dear All,
It’s December and the Christmas rush is upon us. I have been trying to declutter since September and during that process I have been talking to lots of our wonderful, local charity shop volunteers who really need our support at this time of year. They need donations and they are grateful for everything, but now is the time to donate the Christmas things that we are fed up with that will give others joy.
So, if you have got a spare hour or two in the next few weeks scan the house for party dresses and outfits you no longer wear – the more glitter and sparkles the merrier; winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves; Christmas decorations, jewellery and accessories plus outgrown Christmas jumpers, toys, books, cuddly animals and unwanted gifts.
Thank you to Felpham artist and resident, Julia Maynard, for this month’s wonderfully vibrant front cover - her painting Sea the Moon. To see more of Julia’s work visit: www.juliamaynardartist.co.uk
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. Thank you for your support, good wishes and encouragement throughout 2024 and see you again in 2025. Best wishes, Kate X
Copies of Bersted in Focus are available to collect from Bognor Regis Library.
office@infocusmagazines.co.uk
Tel: 07729682245 www.infocusmagazines.co.uk
FEBRUARY ISSUE DEADLINE – WEDNESDAY 8 JANUARY
HE'S BEHIND YOU!
BY SARAH DAVEY
Nothing screams 'Christmas' like a man in a dress, a villain with a twirly moustache, buckets of glitter and two hundred primary school kids yelling, 'He’s behind you!' at the top of their lungs. But how did this strange blend of slapstick comedy, fairy tales, and audience participation come to be such a beloved British institution?
The story begins with a touch of Italian flair. Back in the 16th century, travelling Italian performers introduced Commedia dell’Arte to Britain – a form of street theatre featuring exaggerated characters, physical comedy, and chaotic plots. These Italian performers laid the groundwork for what would later become the pantomime.
Fast-forward to the 18th century, when British pantomime took a lively turn with the introduction of the harlequinade. This French tradition starred the mischievous Harlequin, along with a host of other quirky characters, like Columbine, and a clumsy clown. This genre was all about the absurd, which naturally appealed to our British sense of humour and soon, a cross-dressing, slapstick holiday extravaganza was born.
It didn’t take long before British pantomime became inseparable from the festive season. Classic tales like Cinderella, Aladdin, and Jack and the Beanstalk were given the pantomime treatment, which usually meant taking a folk tale and lacing it with terrible puns, some highly questionable costumes, and a lot of shouting. Oh, and the pantomime Dame – a role famously played by a man in full makeup and flamboyant frock – became a comic staple. In fact, if you attend a panto and don’t see a man dressed as an outrageously bejewelled matron, were you even at a pantomime?
Audience participation is, of course, the heartbeat of any panto. British pantomimes invite everyone to get involved. Is the villain skulking on stage? Everyone shout, “Boooooo!” Has the hero lost something? Cue the audience yelling, 'It’s behind you!' And if there’s a 'ghost scene', all the cast and audience members have to collectively attempt to rid the stage of the spooky intruder, usually by screaming and laughing.
Add to this the tradition of peppering shows with minor celebs, contemporary jokes, local shout-outs, political quips, and a dollop of satire, and you have a show that feels both timeless and wonderfully ridiculous. Every British child will remember their first panto, an event that’s equal parts festive cheer and complete mayhem.
So there you have it! Pantomime is part dash of Italian influence, with a soupçon of Gallic panache, a splash of British slapstick, and a whole lot of nonsense – a tradition where laughter, cross-dressing, and heckling from the audience are actively encouraged. No wonder it’s become such a hit; it’s everything British culture loves, rolled into one chaotic, uproarious holiday spectacle.
Have you bought your panto tickets yet?
CHRISTMAS GIFTS BY
SHARON NEWMAN
With Christmas approaching, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, especially when you want to avoid the ubiquitous bubble bath and socks. Here are some unusual but meaningful Christmas gift ideas that are sure to delight and surprise your loved ones this holiday season.
Personalised star maps - these maps show the exact alignment of the stars on a significant date in the recipient’s life, whether it’s their birthday, an anniversary, or another special occasion. Star maps make for stunning wall art but also carry deep sentimental value. They serve as a reminder of a cherished moment, making them both thoughtful and unique.
Experience Gifts – Experience-based gifts have become increasingly popular as most of us concede we own too much 'stuff.’ They can be tailored to the recipient’s interests, whether they're adventure seekers or food lovers. For someone who values experiences over material possessions, this type of gift shows that you’ve thought carefully about what would make them happiest, whether that’s a cooking class, hot air balloon ride, or a wine tasting tour.
Subscription Boxes – For a gift that keeps giving beyond Christmas Day these curated boxes can cater for all kinds of hobbies and tastes. Whether your recipient enjoys gourmet snacks, skincare products, books, or gardening, there’s a subscription service for them.
Subscription boxes add an element of surprise, as the recipient gets to enjoy their gift over time, reminding them of you with each delivery.
Charity Donations in Their Name – For those who value giving back, consider making a charitable donation in their name. This gift is both thoughtful and impactful, as it helps a cause that’s meaningful to them. Many organizations offer the option to send a personalized card or certificate, informing the recipient of the donation. Whether it’s supporting animal welfare, environmental initiatives, or community projects, this is a great way to make a difference while honouring someone’s values.
Customized Art Pieces – This could be anything from a hand-drawn portrait of their pet, a family illustration, or a map of their favourite city. With many artists offering bespoke services online, you can find a style that perfectly suits the recipient’s taste. This kind of art is not only beautiful but also deeply personal, ensuring it will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.
DIY Gift Kits – These allow the recipient to make something themselves. These kits come in a variety of options, from making candles or soap to brewing their own beer or planting a mini herb garden. DIY kits are interactive, engaging, and give the recipient a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they can enjoy the finished product long after the holidays have passed.
Finding a gift that’s both unusual and thoughtful doesn’t have to be difficult. The key is to select something that reflects the recipient’s personality and interests. These gift ideas go beyond the ordinary, offering a unique way to show your loved ones how much you care this Christmas.
BERSTED GREEN PRIMARY SCHOOL
NEEDS YOU BY NICOLA WATERS
Bersted Green Primary School is looking for committed volunteers to join our Board of Governors. Our fundamental aim is to try and provide the best possible education for all our children. We see each child as an individual with their own identity and strive to help them to take responsibility for themselves and for their learning.
Why volunteer as a school governor?
As a governor, your time and energy can help to make a positive impact on the lives of our school’s pupils. Serving as a school governor is a highly rewarding experience, offering numerous personal and professional benefits.
Working as part of the Governing Body, you will help shape the strategic direction of our school. You will oversee the school’s performance and its budget and act as guardians of its vision and values. You will also provide challenge and support to the headteacher to raise standards throughout the school.
What do school governors do?
The governing body is responsible for:
• Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school
• Holding leaders to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils
• Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent Governors are there to question and challenge the school’s leaders on the standards of educational performance. Ultimately, they work with the school to ensure that pupils receive the best opportunities to learn in an environment in which they feel happy and secure.
What skills does a governor need?
Governors are not usually specialists in education and come from all backgrounds. Skills or experience in specific areas are not essential as training is provided. We are looking for candidates who have:
• a naturally inquisitive nature with the ability to question and analyse
• a willingness to understand the ethos of our school and to be supportive of our vision and values
• sound communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team
• appropriate levels of literacy in English and sufficient numeracy skills to understand basic data
• empathy and understanding of the need to adhere to the seven principles of public life (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership)
• a determination to achieve the best possible outcomes for all our pupils
What is the time commitment?
Our Governing Body meets every half term and governors are also asked to undertake monitoring visits to see the school in action and speak to teachers and pupils. You will also need some time to prepare for meetings and undertaking training and development. Most of our current governors work full time and manage to fit in their role around their other commitments.
What are the benefits?
The role of school governor brings many benefits, including:
• Collaborating with others as part of a diverse team
• Giving back to the community and making a difference to the children in our school
• Shaping the future for the next generation
• Developing and demonstrating transferable skills to take back to your place of work
If you would be interested in finding out more about the role or how to apply, please email Nicola Waters, Chair of Governors at nwaters@berstedgreen.school.
13 The Square, Barnham, Bognor Regis, PO22 0HB
LOCAL HISTORY
BY SYLVIA ENDACOTT
As we head towards Christmas, I thought we could view Christmas cards. Did you know that the first postage stamps were introduced in the 1840s, an Englishman named Henry Cole was so busy at Christmas that he was forced to enlist the help of two friends to send out his Christmas greetings. John Calcutt Horsley RN designed the card for him and another friend Joseph Cundall produced 1,000. Being an astute businessman he decided to sell the unused cards for 1s. each. The Christmas card was born. By Christmas 1880 the GPO had adopted the well-known slogan 'Post early for Christmas'. It was not until 1871 when postal rates were halved that folded cards were introduced, many with inner-ribboned sheets. The real turning point was in 1880 when a nation-wide competition was started for designing Christmas cards, with a prize of 500 guineas.
The themes of the cards were similar to the present day, although they placed much more emphasis on the use of real photographs than we do today. Local stationers used to overprint cards of local street scenes with 'Compliments of the Season', or 'Christmas Wishes'.
Embossed cards became popular from 1902, when German companies began flooding the shops with designs, of the German Father Christmas, St Nicholas, who was depicted rewarding the good children, while Krampus punished the naughty ones.
Between one and three million Christmas cards were posted daily before the first world war, but eventually folded cards were produced and posted in envelopes to prevent the prying eyes of the reserved Victorians.
I hope you have a happy Christmas and hope to see you in 2025.
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 9 December - 1845 for 1930 hrs
Flt Lt Mike Monk – ‘Light-hearted Memories from Sea, Jungle & Winter Survival’ and Helen Tempest – ‘Having Been a Wing-Walker’
Mike Monk was a member of RAF 18 Squadron based at RAF Odiham. During his 12 years of service as a commissioned Navigator, he undertook some amazing tours, in many parts of the world. Mike will give a light-hearted presentation on his experiences, good and bad, whilst attending RAF Survival Courses – from the cold water of the English Channel, to the humid Malayan jungle. These tales, told in Mike’s light-hearted way, promise to entertain and amuse.
In the second half, Helen Tempest will present – ‘Having Been a Wing-Walker’. Having started wing walking aged just 15, Helen is probably one of the world’s most experienced wing walkers with over 25 years’ experience. At 21 she joined Vic Norman's wingwalking team, AeroSuperBatics and spent 19 years wingwalking at airshows throughout the UK and Europe and beyond, supported by various sponsors and performing in over 1000 air shows in total.
She will be explaining about the fun that she had on the top wings of the Stearman aircraft, including learning how to climb around the aircraft in mid-air and performing gymnastics movements in front of many airshow audiences and making and breaking world records along the way.
VENUE – Boxgrove Village Hall, The Street, Boxgrove, PO18 0EE 6.45pm for 7.30pm start. Members £5, Non-members £10 and under 16s FREE. Doors open at 6.45pm no pre-booking, no reserved seating. For further information about AirACES, please see www.airaces.org.uk, or call David Batcock on 07502 400657.
ARTIST OF THE MONTH: DARREN PATRICK O'MALLY
For the last two and a half years I’ve been a full time artist, residing in the Bognor Regis vicinity. I paint under my original name prior to adoption O’Mally, as there is a well known London based artist by the name of Stephen Wiltshire, plus I prefer the sound of my original name.
I was blessed to have been adopted by a very artistic family, and from the age of seven my grandfather was teaching me oil painting. I’m essentially an impressionist oil painter, and try to paint from scenes “en plein air” wherever possible. My influences are Monet and Joaquin Sorolla. I paint with a number of other plein air artists, Brighton, London and Portsmouth. I have not used galleries for a very long time, and this way I can make art affordable, and always like to include copyright for customers, as I believe when you buy a painting, you should own image rights too.
I went from a hectic, and quite stressful job working in a very large hospital, to working on my own so I really enjoy the social aspect of painting plein air, and have got to know so many people as a result. I welcome commissions, especially property portraits, and can do human portrait work, although my style suits age 40 upwards, and I work from sittings rather than just a photo. I’m also a plein-air tutor and even teach nocturnal scenes, with my lighting set up. My website is www.omally-artist.com My Instagram is omally_art To contact me, telephone 07703 093778 or email omally1972@gmail.com
COMING IN FROM THE COLD
BY Alice McD ougall
With winter looming we see an influx of birds to our shores as they leave their freezing breeding grounds and seek milder climes that can still provide food and shelter from the worst weather. Britain’s estuaries and lakes are a magnet for migrating wildfowl and waders and RSPB Pagham & Medmerry reserves are no exception.
The rich mud exposed at low tide is full of crustaceans, shellfish and other invertebrates - a massive mud pie packed with protein and nutrients. Examine the waders more closely and you will notice how each species is adapted to specialise targeting different prey. The diminutive Dunlin for example has short legs and therefore spends its time picking around the water edges. Longer legged species, such as avocet and black-tailed godwit, wade out further into the water to feed.
Then look at the bills. Again the dunlin’s bill is quite short, but an excellent tool for picking prey off the surface. The godwits longer bill is perfect for delving deeper into the mud, while the extraordinary long, down-curved bill of the curlew, allows it to probe deeper still.
Then there are the ducks. Dabbling ducks, such as wigeon and pintail, feed by up-ending, their heads underwater and their bottoms in the air. Meanwhile, diving ducks, like the tufted duck and goldeneye, obviously dive for their food in deeper water.
For many locals and birdwatchers alike, there is one species that is especially welcome back at this time of year. The brent goose. The smallest of our geese, it is similar in size to a mallard duck, dark, plump, and with a small white neck patch and white undertail. There are actually two distinct races of brent geese. Pale-bellied brents breed mostly in Canada and Greenland and spend the winter predominantly in Ireland. Dark-bellied brents breed in northern Russia and winter in southern and eastern England. It is these dark bellied brent geese that we see across our reserves, although you may very occasionally find a pale bellied brent hidden among them. They feed in flocks sometimes on the water upending like ducks to reach vegetation beneath the surface, sometimes grazing in the surrounding fields. The constant low hubbub of their honking always brings a smile to my face and is one of my favourite sounds during these harsher months.
So wrap up warm, wander our many footpaths and you will be rewarded with the sights and sounds of our wonderful natural world.
RSPB Events at Pagham Harbour
To find out more and book your place: https://events.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour
Binocular and Telescope Open Day: Saturday 07 December, 10am – 3pm Free event, no need to book
Guided Walk: Wonderful Waders and Wildfowl; Saturday 07 December, 10am (duration 3½ hours) £8 per person / £5 members
Nature’s Christmas Wreath-making and dressing Workshops
There is something special about creating your own traditional Christmas wreath and all the more so when it is made out of natural materials from the season.
Morning Willow Wreath-making workshop
Suitable for 16+; Saturday 14 December, 9.30am (duration 3 hours); £45 per person / £38 members*
Afternoon Christmas Wreath-dressing workshop: Suitable for 16+
Saturday 14 December, 1pm (duration 3 hours); £45 per person / £38 members* Sunday 15 December, 10.30am (duration 3 hours);£45 per person / £38 members
*These workshops can be booked individually or as a full day.
*Combined full day workshop – Wreath making & dressing £65 per person / £54 members
Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Wigeon.
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DIPPING INTO 2025 BY JANET STOCKLEY-POLLARD
The Felpham Dippers are a group who are united in our love of cold water swimming. Last year we sadly lost one of our members, a lovely mermaid friend Rebecca, to the cruelness that is cancer. St Wilfrid’s Hospice helped her immensely and so we wanted to do something to help the charity, in her memory, so we made this calendar.
All of the photos are taken locally, and we have tried to make it a calendar that shows how much fun we have and how we are there for each other. We give thanks to everyone involved who has given their time freely and we would like to especially thank Stephen Pollard, Jacqueline Rackham, The Bognor Regis Museum, MJ and our brave October Girls.
The calendar is £10 and is available to purchase from local St Wilfrid’s Hospice shops, at select local outlets, and at some of the local Christmas markets. It can also be ordered by emailing us at felphamdippers@ gmail.com. For the cost of postage (Starting at £1.55) we will post it out, so if you would like one to go as a gift, just let us know.
We also have a Facebook page and website felphamdippers.com. It would be fabulous if you could join in and share it far and wide. Please help us to raise as much as possible for this wonderful cause. Thank you so much for your support.
GLIDING GIFTS
BY JULIAN HITCHCOCK
Gliding is relatively inexpensive – and a taster experience would make a great Christmas present. It’s great fun, you meet interesting people, lots of fresh air and exercise learning new skills. There’s an element of excitement but within a safe environment supervised by a very experienced team. For many it becomes a lifetime passion, even a career route into commercial aviation.
Bognor Regis Gliding Club was established in 2016, formally LEC Refrigeration’s Airfield EGKC, (there’s an Icon on our website, “History” if you would like to look it up), we are located adjacent to Sainsbury’s, We offer introduction flights and membership for those who want to learn to fly. What is the attraction, why learn to glide? Often it’s just something they’ve always wanted to do but thought it to be inaccessible.
BRGC has a high proportion of junior members who can go solo from 14 years of age. It's a sport that’s genuinely all-inclusive regardless of physical characteristics age or gender. Progression is all about mental agility and coordination. Many of the current national and world records are held by female pilots. The reason I love gliding, is every day is different and presents new challenges, you’re always learning and making lifelong friendships. Pilots progress through the Sailplane license syllabus (SPL) and then diversify into cross country, instructing, aerobatics, competitions or convert your SPL to a power licence in the clubs Motor-glider Grob109T or become a Tug pilot in the clubs EuroFox, literally the sky’s the limit!
For more information, google us www.brgc.co.uk We look forward to meeting you and introducing you to our amazing sport. Christmas Trail Lesson £140 purchase via our website “Buy Voucher” www.brgc.co.uk/trial-lesson-payment/
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Following the Budget, now is the ideal time to make or review your Will
by Mark Riley, Founder & Managing Partner, MJR Solicitors
As the end of 2024 approaches, time seems to speed up as we frantically prepare for Christmas and look forward to celebrating. The start of a new year often gives us a chance to reflect on the previous year and all the important events that took place as the pace of life slows a little. This can be a good time to consider if any of those events of the previous year which we took in our stride at the time, have had a longer term impact on some of plans we may have made for the future. The shorter days and dark nights give time to review our finances, investments and documents such as Wills to check they are all providing the right outcome for the future and are still tax efficient. This is particularly relevant after a Budget has been announced. It is worth remembering that certain assets you hold bypass your Will and go directly to designated beneficiaries or joint owners upon your death. Here are the main types of assets that usually bypass a Will:
1. Jointly Owned Assets (Joint Tenancy)
Property: If you own property as joint tenants with another person, your share automatically passes to the surviving joint owner upon your death, rather than through your Will. However, if you own property as tenants in common, your share will be handled according to your Will (or intestacy laws if no Will exists).
Bank Accounts: Joint bank accounts typically pass directly to the surviving account holder, as they hold rights of survivorship.
2. Life Insurance Policies Life insurance payouts are usually directed to a named beneficiary and pass directly to them. If a beneficiary is specified, the insurance proceeds do not go through the Will.
3. Pension and Retirement Accounts Most pension funds and retirement accounts, such as personal pensions or workplace pensions, allow you to nominate a beneficiary. The funds are then transferred directly to that beneficiary, bypassing the estate and the Will.
4. Trust Assets Any assets held in trust, including property, investments, or cash, are not considered part of your personal estate and do not go through your Will. The trustee manages and distributes these assets according to the terms of the trust, rather than by the instructions in a Will.
5. Certain Investment Accounts (With Named Beneficiaries) Investments, such as some Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) or brokerage accounts, allow you to designate a beneficiary. These assets then transfer directly to the designated person outside of your Will.
Implications of Assets Bypassing the Will
For these types of assets, it is essential to keep beneficiary designations up-to-date, especially after major life changes like marriage, divorce, or having children. You should also consider that although these assets bypass your Will they will not all by-pass the valuation of your estate for Inheritance Tax. Joint Assets and some Trust assets can be included. Following the Budget announcement in October, pension pots will now fall within this calculation from April 2027. The Budget also froze the Inheritance Tax allowance for a further two years until 2030. This means as house prices continue to go up you could inadvertently fall outside of this tax free allowance making your final estate liable for Inheritance tax which remains at 40%.
A combination of ongoing financial planning and review can make a considerable difference. If you would like to book a FREE 30 minute consultation with one of our Will and Estate Planning experts, we would be happy to book you in.
Trusted, knowledgeable, by your side
Tel: 01243 945054 info@mjrsolicitors.co.uk www.mjrsolicitors.co.uk
In the meantime, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous 2025.
It’s important to make sure your Will is giving you the right outcomes for the future and is tax efficient - following a budget, a Will review is important.
Regardless of your age, wealth, health or status, planning for your future can guarantee that your wishes are followed and ensure your loved ones get the full benefit of your legacy. Our experts will guide you through the process. So just as we prepare for the festive season, it’s a good time to prepare and think about making or updating your Will.
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CREATE AND CURATE A MEMORY BOX
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE BY SADIA KHAN
A memory box is a wonderful way to preserve and cherish your most treasured moments and would make a wonderful Christmas present. Whether it's for yourself, as a future gift for a child, or to remember a family member who has died, it's a lovely thing to have or receive. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating and curating a meaningful memory box.
Step 1: Choose Your Box
Start by selecting a suitable container. It can be a decorative wooden box, a sturdy shoebox, or a specially purchased memory box. The size depends on how many items you plan to include. You can cover or decorate the box to reflect the theme or personal style, using paint, stickers, or fabric.
Step 2: Gather Your Memories
Collect items that hold sentimental value. These can include photographs, letters, concert tickets, travel souvenirs, or small mementos. Choose items that evoke specific memories or milestones, such as baby’s first shoes, wedding invitations, or holiday postcards. Ensure each item has a personal significance and tells part of the story.
Step 3: Organise and Arrange
Carefully arrange the items in the box. You can sort them chronologically or by theme (e.g. travel, family, achievements). Use envelopes or small pouches for delicate items like jewellery or pressed flowers. Adding labels or notes can help explain the significance of each item, providing context for future reminiscing.
Step 4: Personal Touches
Add personal touches to make the memory box even more special. Write a letter or include a diary entry to capture your emotions and thoughts. Add scented sachets to evoke memories through smell, or digital elements like a USB drive with a playlist of favourite songs or video clips.
Step 5: Maintain and Update
A memory box should be a living collection. Keep it updated with new memories and revisit it periodically to curate it. Remember, the container is a limit. You can keep anything, but not everything. My mother used to say, 'If everything is special, nothing is special,' so keep only the most cherished items. Curating can be a therapeutic activity and talking about the items with others, keeps the memories alive.
Each member of my family has their own memory box. They get to decided what is special enough to keep in their box. This is very important; if you have delightful memories of reading The Gruffalo to your firstborn and are deeply attached to the book, but they don't consider it special enough to keep, the memory is clearly yours, so it should go in your own memory box. Don't guilt them into keeping it in theirs!
Creating and curating a memory box is a deeply personal and rewarding project. It not only preserves your most cherished memories but also serves as a tangible connection to your past. So, gather your mementos, let your creativity flow, and start building your own treasure trove of memories today.
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Down
1. Portray, illustrate (6)
2. Baby's room (7)
3. Forgiving, lenient (8)
4. Means of losing weight (4)
5. Stadium, amphitheatre (5)
CROSSWORD
Across
1. Contribute, give (6)
4. Demise, end (5)
8. Jeopardy (5)
9. Sank the Titanic (7)
10. Distinctly (7)
11. Indian dress (4)
12. Deceive (3)
14. Sung in church (4)
15. Reveal, display (4)
18. Fasten, attach (3)
21. Idol, venerated image (4)
23. Wander aimlessly (7)
25. Gift (7)
26. Modify (5)
27. Appoint, nominate (5)
28. Affluence, riches (6)
6. Scottish meat pudding (6)
7. Resin used to make gramophone records (5)
13. Heighten, intensify (8)
16. Weirdo, eccentric (7)
17. Small alcoholic drink (6)
19. Barren, deserted (5)
20. Walking aid (6)
22. Very overweight (5)
24. Loaned (4)
• Say “goodbye” to gaps and dentures
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A GOOD READ
BY NATASHA DONOVAN
A Cornish Christmas Murder by Fiona Leitch
A Cornish Christmas Murder is a delightful seasonal mystery that transports readers to the cozy, scenic village of Penstowan. In this latest instalment of the Jodie Parker Mystery series, we find the former detective turned amateur sleuth, Jodie “Nosey” Parker, knee-deep in yuletide festivities, only to have the holiday spirit interrupted by a gruesome murder.
The novel begins with Jodie hoping for a quiet Christmas with her family, but things take an unexpected turn when a high-profile celebrity chef is found dead at the local holiday festival. With the charming Cornish landscape covered in snow, the idyllic setting makes for a perfect contrast to the sinister crime that unfolds. As Jodie steps in to help the local police unravel the mystery, readers are treated to an engaging plot full of twists, red herrings, and quirky village characters.
Leitch’s storytelling is full of warmth and humour. This is not a novel for lovers of gruesome gritty city crime set in the real world. Here the cozy atmosphere, mixed with an array of delicious Christmas treats, makes for a festive, page-turning experience. Jodie's wit and determination make her an endearing protagonist who feels like an old friend, and her dynamic with the colourful cast brings the village to life.
A Cornish Christmas Murder is a satisfying blend of mystery and holiday charm, perfect for readers to curl up with during the festive season. Just add a roaring fire and a glass of mulled wine.
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.
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SUSSEX CHRISTMAS QUIZ BY KIM LESLIE
A prize – a book An Historical Atlas of Sussex – will be awarded for the first most correct answers received. Answers should be emailed to kimleslie@ymail.com to arrive by 31 December 2024. Answers will be published in the February In Focus magazines.
SPORT
1. Pushed in Pagham?
2. Sport associated with seagulls?
3. Cowdray Park famous for?
4. Indoor sport at Petworth House?
5. Slindon was early in the field?
6. Championships near Crawley?
7. Sunbeams at Itchenor?
8. Warm-up for Wimbledon?
9. Robertsbridge for making?
10. Wealden West Sussex gliding club?
CONNECTIONS BETWEEN
11. Waterloo and Brighton?
12. India and Burwash?
13, Peter Scott and Arundel?
14. James Bond and Amberley?
15 West Side Story and Chichester Cathedral?
16. West Wittering and some Stones?
17. Hartfield and a bear?
18. Moon studies and Selsey?
19. Harting and letter boxes?
20. West Dean and surrealism?
LITERARY LOCATIONS
21. Philippa Gregory’s ‘Tidelands’?
22. Kate Mosse’s ‘The Taxidermists Daughter’?
23. R.C. Sheriff’s ‘The Fortnight in September’?
24. Graham Greene’s ‘….. Rock’?
25. Hilaire Belloc’s mill ‘in Desolation’?
26. Peter James’s Detective Roy Grace?
27. H.G. Wells’s Bladesover House?
28. Tennyson’s Sussex home?
29. John Keats still sits here?
30. River that ended Virginia Woolf?
COSY UP THIS CHRISTMAS – PYJAMAS
BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER
It’s that time – the Christmas Pyjama season is upon us. From luxury lounge wear to comedy versions, the choice vast. In recent years, the trend for matching family sets has really taken off, and even the pets don’t get left out! But if that’s not your bag, there are some lovely chic versions too.
Cosy AND Classy
Here’s my pick of the best in all styles…
We Are Family Cheesy? Perhaps, but a bit of fun yes! If you want to go for the matching family look, this navy jersey set from Very is a comfy version that wouldn’t look out of place if you decided to stay in it all day. And if your babies are of the fur variety, they get a look in too. Some animals don’t like being dressed up, so the pet bandana is the perfect option.
Cyberjammies are a great one stop shop for all things nightwear. Using sustainable fabrics, and with great feedback for customer service, they cater for the whole family. They also offer a lovely gift box service, making these pyjamas the ideal present. I love the Forest collection for men, and the Edie Floral Collection for Ladies (sizes 6 to 28) if you don’t want anything to ‘Christmassy’.
Supermarket Chic
Full On Festive!
If you’re going to go festive, you may as well go for it. These Christmas fleece snuggle hoodies from Matalan are ideal for throwing over you outfit or wearing alone to warm up on a frosty day. With a gingerbread motif, a cosy hood, and kangaroo pockets they tick all the boxes.
Not all supermarket offerings are the garish, full on in-your-face versions you might expect. If you like a more understated festive look, how about these subtle Christmas Lights set for ladies from Tu at Sainsburys. And for gents, George at Asda have these Grey Fairisle pyjamas, which will have longevity for Christmas and beyond!
Stuck for a present? Want to give something that they’ll find useful for evermore, not just for Christmas? My gift vouchers are ideal. Gift them a colour or other experience, or by amount (£20 minimum) so they can chose whatever they’d like from my services and products. Get in touch for more information.
Want personalised advice? Book a Style Consultation with me. Vickybooker.com or contact me for info – vicky@vickybooker.com
Vicky Booker.
Please
GIFTS FOR GARDENERS
BY RACHEL LEVERTON
It’s the holiday season so now is the time to treat the gardening enthusiast in your life. Whether they are a seasoned horticulturalist or have budding green thumbs, I have some carefully curated gift ideas to help make their Christmas a little more magical.
Personalised Garden Tools – High-quality garden tools are essential for any gardener, and a personalised set can add a thoughtful touch. Consider a set that includes essentials like a trowel, pruners, and a hand fork, engraved with their name or a meaningful message. Look for stainless steel or high-carbon steel, to ensure these tools withstand regular use.
Heirloom Seed Collection – Heirloom seeds are a fantastic gift for anyone who loves the idea of growing unique or rare plants. You can find seed collections featuring everything from heirloom vegetables and herbs to wildflowers and native plants. There will be something to appeal to everyone. To add a personal touch, package the seeds in a decorative box or vintage-style tin.
Composting Kit or wormery – For eco-conscious gardeners, a composting kit or a wormery can be a fantastic gift. Options range from countertop composters for small spaces to larger, outdoor set-ups that allow gardeners to create rich, organic matter for their gardens. Some kits come with starter guides, making them suitable for beginners. Not only will these gifts help reduce kitchen waste, but they will also improve soil health and boost plant growth. What more could a gardener want?
Indoor Herb Garden Kit – Winter can make it challenging to grow fresh produce, so consider an indoor herb garden kit as a thoughtful and practical gift. Many kits include planters, seeds, soil pods, and even LED grow lights, which make growing herbs indoors a breeze. From basil and parsley to mint and thyme, these kits allow gardeners to keep their herbs close at hand, adding fresh flavours to their cooking all winter long.
Garden Kneeler – Gardening often requires time spent kneeling and bending, so a garden kneeler can be an incredibly thoughtful gift. Many kneelers are foldable and come with handy built-in pockets for tools, gloves, and small pots. They provide a padded, comfortable surface and some can double as a seat.
Birdhouses and Bug Hotels – Wildlife-friendly gifts like birdhouses and bug hotels are ideal for gardeners who want to attract pollinators and beneficial creatures to their garden. These small structures provide nesting spaces for local birds, bees, and other insects. Look for bug hotels made from untreated wood and birdhouses that are weather-resistant.
I hope at least one of these suggestions will delight the gardener in your life, and if my husband happens to be reading this … I’ve always fancied a wormery! Happy gardening,
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LET’S GET REPAIRING
BY KATE STEWART
In our consumer led society we increasingly buy more than ever and, as soon as items show the smallest defects, it is so easy to throw them away and buy something new, says East Preston Repair Café.
Many things get thrown away within the space of one year. To help combat the consequent effects of climate change, Repair Cafés aim to bring back repairing into local communities as well as pass on repair expertise from one generation to the next.
Repair Cafe ARUNDEL is now firmly established and held on the 3rd Saturday of every month (the same as the Farmer’s Market) at the Norfolk Centre, opposite the Arundel Museum.
The cafe is very fortunate to have had a core group of 3 / 4 repairers since it started in 2022 whose skills include fixing electrical items and general “household goods”. Here is a list of just some of the things they repair. They would love to find more volunteers, especially those who could mend textiles and clothing.
Tool Sharpening Bikes
Lamps Vacuum Cleaners
Toys Crockery
Kettles Food Mixers
Toasters Radios
Household Gadgets
You don’t need to be a professional to help, just a bit of confidence and a “can do” attitude will go a long way. Often people visiting the Repair Cafe are just happy for a repair to be attempted, while they have a slice of delicious cake, as the item is usually on its way to the bin anyway. That’s why people are even more delighted when a repair is successful!
The café has fixed over 1000 items so far, including a 1980s Amstrad record player, a music box, lamps, and some very happy toys. The two next cafes will be Saturday December 21st and Saturday January 18th 2025 from 10 -12.30pm. For further information visit Repair Café Arundel on Facebook or email repaircafearundel@gmail.com
In CHICHESTER Transition Town Chichester (TTC) promotes a transition to a greener, more sustainable society and is looking for people to help at a Repair Café they are hoping to hold early next year. Visit www.transitionchichester.org to find out more or if you are interested in volunteering email secretary@transitioncchichester.org
Rather than throwing an item and contributing to landfill, why not take it along to the new EAST PRESTON Repair Café? Backed by East Preston Parish Council, a team of talented volunteers will have a look and work with you to try to repair whatever you bring in. Tea, coffee and cake is available for a modest sum. There is no charge for repairs, but they do ask for a small donation towards running costs.
This year’s final Repair Café will be on Saturday 7th December at the Spire Room at St Mary’s Church, Vicarage Lane, from 10:00 to 13:00.If you have a skill that you can offer as a volunteer then please contact cllr.john.gunston@eastpreston-pc.gov.uk, call into the Council Office or phone 01903 770050.
Please do let us know if you have a repairing story to tell? Anyone interested in a Felpham/ Middleton/Bersted Repair Café?
Please
TIME TO TRAVEL
The Fred Olsen Travel Chichester branch opened just weeks ago in October. Branch manager and Arundel resident, Roger Mallock, is delighted to return to Chichester where he spent many years running the local Bath Travel office.
A seasoned traveller himself, growing up in Africa and South America, Roger can give firsthand information on holiday destinations and many cruise itineraries too as Roger also worked for Fred Olsen Cruise lines at sea.
Roger Mallock explains: “We provide a full travel agency experience with a human (!) and book all types of holidays and cruises ranging from short weekend breaks, to summer and winter holiday trips in Europe and worldwide.
“We have very competitive solo travel prices on tours and cruises, we can book safaris, weddings and honeymoons, business travel and group travel for our customers. Our own tour operator called Fred Holidays can tailor-make any itinerary whether by land, sea, air or rail.
“We do book Fred Olsen cruises but we are in fact specialists for all major ocean and river cruises. Booking through an ABTA travel agent like us gives our customers full financial protection and very important peace of mind with their travel plans that we will sort out problems should they arise. A deposit figure usually secures the holiday booking with the balance due 3-4 months before departure, so there is no need to pay all at once. Payment can be made in person or over the telephone by debit or credit card also by bank transfer. We have all heard of horror stories and may even have been victim of less than reputable companies.
resident Roger Mallock
“Where I think we excel and offer a unique benefit to our clients is in the relationships we have with travel companies often resulting in excellent preferred rates. All bookings will be confirmed by e-mail and tickets are printed in the office so that they can be collected safely.
“We also take care of special requests as well as advise on passports, visas, and other essentials including travel insurance. We can additionally book airport hotels and have taxi and chauffeur contacts to take you from your home to the airport or port.
“Our store is very spacious and located just metres from the Cross in Chichester with many car parks within easy reach. It’s the perfect place to discuss your forthcoming plans in comfort with experienced, knowledgeable staff who have worked at sea and can provide useful tips and up-to-date information to first time cruisers, people looking for escorted tours and all types of different holidays in Europe and beyond.
“We want to build relationships with our customers who, we know, have worked hard and carefully financially planned for their holidays so they feel reassured and can trust us to find them the holiday they are looking for. Bucket list or basic, we want to build a community of happy travellers who have every confidence and trust in us.”
If you would like us to help with your travel plans please contact the team on 01243 213104 or e-mail chichester@fredolsentravel.co.uk
Roger Mallock is the author of, Cruisemaster, the first timer’s guide to cruising.
Barnham
(fifth from left) with his Chichester team
Property Litigation Consultant
Chartered Legal Executive
Caroline qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive in 2000 and has worked in local government, commercial business and financial institutions making her well placed to provide a holistic approach to a range of matters. Caroline specialises in property related disputes which are often emotionally charged, aiming to get to the root cause of the issue and find a way to resolution in the most suitable and cost-effective way for the client.
Caroline’s Property Litigation experience:
Commercial 1954 Act lease renewals; Leasehold etc disputes; Lease extensions; Neighbour disputes; Dilapidation claims/disputes; Tenancy document Reviews
Landlord and tenant – both residential and commercial; Boundary disputes; Party Wall Act related; Trespass; Adverse Possession of both registered and unregistered land; act Caroline Knowles-Ley on: ne.knowles-ley@cognitivelaw.co.uk 943203
DECEMBER HOROSCOPES
BY LOCAL ASTROLOGER LETICIA PARMER
Here we are already at the Christmas season – it seems to have come along far too quickly. So what can you expect this December? Mars says 'do less' while Neptune says 'dream more' and thanks to Mercury, clear thinking returns just in time for the festivities.
ARIES
Children may be a bit tiring but you feel its worth it as you fully immerse yourself in the magic and dreams of the festive season.
TAURUS
You're not much in the mood for cooking and cleaning this month, so hopefully someone else will offer to host enjoyable gatherings and parties.
GEMINI
For a change you're keener to sit and listen rather than rushing around and doing all the talking. That is because you are quietly dreaming big.
CANCER
Your wonderlust reawakens now, making you keen to save for some travelling, rather than spending your money on pointless fripperies.
LEO
Your personal energy will be lower, so for once you don't need to offer to be the 'life and soul of the party', its time for you to be pampered.
VIRGO
You'll throw yourself wholeheartedly into the fantasy and romance of the festive season, especially with the one you care most about.
LIBRA
Give yourself some space and time to recharge your batteries before accepting too many invitations and requests this festive season.
SCORPIO
You may experience a bit of an inner battle between work duties and the desire to spend more time with the youngsters this December.
SAGITTARIUS
You've spent the year philosophising and sorting through cultural beliefs, now its time to relax at home and dream the festive season away.
CAPRICORN
If there are family dramas or jealousies you can come up with just the right words and phrases to diffuse them. Write a poem or lyrics.
AQUARIUS
The temptation this December will be to splash out on something ridiculously expensive for your partner - but are you really just buying a dream?
PISCES
Though you are very kind and love to help, why not make this more spiritual than practical this festive season through music and poetry.
Original gift ideas:
1. A personal ASTROLOGY READING with Leticia 2. Leticia's insightful, wise book "WHY ON EARTH" to order 07956 155105 or email leticiaparmer@yahoo.com
BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE
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.
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BOGNOR REGIS TIDE TABLE
January 2025, 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.
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WINTER-SPICED HOT CHOCOLATE
You will be the hit of the festive season with this chai-inspired twist on a winter favourite.
Preparation time: 10 mins Cooking time: 10 mins. Serves: 2.
Ingredients
12 cups milk (full fat or semi-skimmed work well, but you can experiment with soy, oat etc)
4 tablespoons high quality drinking chocolate
2 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise
6 cloves
6 green cardamom pods
Method
½ teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated cardamom and vanilla whipped cream
½ cup whipping cream
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 teaspoons sugar (optional)
• Place the milk and all of the whole spices into a small, heavybottomed saucepan and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil). Allow to simmer for about three minutes, whisking or stirring gently to stop the milk being scorched.
• Mix the drinking chocolate with a small amount of cold milk to make a runny paste and add this to the milk in the pan, stirring all the time.
• Simmer the hot chocolate for a few minutes, whisking or stirring occasionally. Strain into mugs (to catch the whole spices). Top with the cardamom and vanilla whipped cream.
• Cardamom and vanilla whipped cream
• Chill a mixing bowl for 30 minutes. Then into the bowl, combine the whipping cream, sugar (if using), vanilla and cardamom. Whip the mixture, until you get soft peaks, a light and airy topping. When whipping aim for soft clouds of cream. Stop before the cream gets too thick.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Solution to Mindbenders
1. Home Alone.
2. The Grinch.
3. Jingle all the Way.
Clubs, Classes and Events
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