FELPHAM IN FOCUS
Dear All,
I always have that ‘new school shoes feeling’ in September – excitement for a new term, new opportunities and time to catch up with my friends, mixed with a tinge of sadness that summer is coming to an end.
Let’s hope that as summer, blue sky, warmth and sunshine took so long to arrive, their departure may be a bit delayed!
Thank you to all those of you who sent your photos into the In Focus Photography Competition – Sussex in Summer. The standard was excellent and congratulations to Louise Lucking who took this month’s Felpham in Focus front cover photo, Linda Treloar who took the Villages in Focus front cover and Graham Digger who took the Bersted in Focus front cover. To see a selection of other entries turn to page 20.
Our next competition will be Sussex in Autumn – please do send in your snaps as high a resolution as possible to office@infocusmagazines.co.uk by Friday 11 October.
Best September wishes, Kate X
Copies of Felpham in Focus are available to collect from Felpham Village Post Office.
office@infocusmagazines.co.uk Tel: 07729682245 www.infocusmagazines.co.uk
OCTOBER ISSUE DEADLINE – THURSDAY 5 SEPTEMBER
Architectural & Structural Designs
F F O O R R
Loft conversions, Extensions, Alterations & Garden Offices etc
30+ years’ experience of providing the complete service for obtaining; Planning Permission & Building Regulations Consent including Structural Calculations & Party Wall Awards
KEITH CHANDLER
FBEng. MRICS. MFPWS. Chartered Surveyor Building Engineer Party Wall Surveyor 07764 578781
keith@keithchandler.co.uk www.keithchandler.co.uk
Want to take up painting as a new hobby?
Get back into art again but need motivation?
All abilities welcome, friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Small groups encouraged by an experienced, professional artist.
DRINKING THE SEA
BY KIM LESLIE
Drink up – sea water’s good for you! That’s the message from an 18th-century Sussex doctor who popularised this miraculous medicine. Enterprising business men soon saw their chance and bottled Sussex sea water was on sale in London. A water pipeline was even planned between Lancing and London in the late-19th century, so the English Channel would be on tap in both the capital and its suburbs. Sea water was to be pumped from Lancing beach to a reservoir high on the Downs above Steyning, flow by gravity to Epsom and then pumped into and around London. Its estimated flow was to be ten million gallons a day. Literally a Victorian pipe dream, it all came to nothing.
The Sussex medical man was Dr Richard Russell of Lewes whose ground-breaking book made for a seaside revolution. First published in Latin in 1750 – in translation entitled ‘A Dissertation on the Use of Sea-Water in the Diseases of the Glands’ – Russell claimed that its saline-iodine content was the cure for consumption, dropsy, violent colic, tumours, rheumatism, hectic fevers, spasms, convulsions, scurvy, head pains, even deafness. In fact there weren’t many complaints the sea couldn’t treat. Russell’s memorial in South Malling church, Lewes, says it all. From the Greek it reads: ‘The sea cures all the diseases of mankind’. A persuasive publicist for the briny-cure, Russell’s winning words soon made his reputation. Moving his practice from Lewes to Brighton, the sickly rich soon arrived in droves ‘to take the waters’ under his guidance. ‘Doctor Brighton’ as a medical cure was born and the little fishing village, then known as Brighthelmstone, was transformed by high society seeking Russell’s miracle cure. Not to be beaten, other places such as Worthing and Bognor soon followed Brighton’s lead, offering a good dose of seawater alongside their own special brand of fashion and elegance.
Drinking salty sea water was only part of the health cure. The other was immersion (as distinct from swimming) that saw the invention of the wheeled bathing machine. Taking the plunge directly from the beach being discouraged to preserve bathers’ modesty, these wooden huts on their high wheels were hauled in and out of the water from where the ‘dipper’ would immerse the bather into the sea by dipping. The salt water and ‘sea air … impregnated with minute saline particles’ were so good for the skin, according to ‘A Hand-Book of Bathing’ published in 1841 in its astonishingly detailed 146 pages of advice. It sternly warned ‘that swimming causes too much exhaustion, and opens the road to too many dangerous consequences … and … may be classed with other exhausting or dangerous sports, such as a steeplechase … or a tiger hunt’. The sea should be used as a hospital, for serious business, certainly not for fun.
WHY JOIN A CHOIR?
BY Hilary Bishop AND Paula McG overn
Joining a choir has never been more popular. More and more people are discovering the joy of singing together. The positive effect on your wellbeing is backed up by many scientific studies, showing plenty of health benefits.
Whether you’re wanting to find your voice or are just looking for an activity that makes you feel good, singing in a choir is proven to give everyone a wellbeing boost. Singing releases endorphins which reduce stress and anxiety levels and contribute to a positive mental state. There are also plenty of physical benefits; singing increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, raises energy levels, and works on a range of muscles in the upper body.
Making the time to socialise and meet new people is so important, and the regular commitment of choir rehearsals and the friendship it brings is a great way to boost your social life. Performing as part a group is fun and builds your confidence and it’s also a great opportunity to share your passion for singing with friends and family.
There are two MusicSmart choirs that meet in Felpham, both run by Hilary Bishop and Paula McGovern. Felpham
Paula and Hilary.
Community Singers is a choir where you can find your voice and build your confidence in singing and we work towards informal performances to friends and family. Recent favourites have included: Somewhere Only We Know – Keane, Don’t Stop Believin, Journey, a great medley of James Bond Hits and Here You Come Again by Dolly Parton.
SingSing is a group of women who love making music and singing together. They have developed a great vocal sound and enjoy harmony singing of new and more challenging songs. They are passionate about the choir and often suggest their own music. SingSing has a real talent for performing and best recent songs include All is Found from Frozen 2, a fun medley of Broadway songs, River Deep, Mountain High and Next Time you Fall in Love from Starlight Express.
Both choirs enjoy fundraising and social events and get-togethers for coffee or at the pub are regular events. Both choirs meet at Felpham Methodist Church in term time only. Felpham Community Singers meet Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm with a tea/coffee after the practice. SingSing meets from 9.45am to 11am on Fridays. If you would like to book your free taster session or would like to have a chat with Hilary or Paula about joining either choir, please get in touch. www.musicsmart.org.uk Email: info@musicsmart.org.uk Tel 07501 923735 01243 842150
SingSing Choir, St Mary's Centre, June 2024.
2024 SOUTHDOWNS MUSIC FESTIVAL:
IT’S GONNA BE GOOD!
The three days between 20 and 22 September will see Bognor Town Centre and the Seafront feasting on a superb array of great music, dance, and much more.
There will be a fantastic offering of free entertainment for locals and visitors to enjoy including the hugely popular Southdowns Ukulele Festival, the third scintillating `Shanty Showdown', the Southdowns Dance Festival with a host of colourful dance groups, the new Southdowns Beer & Cider Festival, fascinating craft and market stalls, great music sessions, choirs, workshops, great children`s entertainments and free events at eight different venues. What`s not to like!
The Festival will be centred in and around the Place St Maur area (next to the Regis Centre) , with other venues including the William Hardwicke, The Dog & Duck in the Steyne, the RAFA Club (Waterloo Square), The Lamb (Steyne Street), Bonito Lounge in London Road/High Street, plus the Performance Area at the southern end of the precinct.
Because the Regis Centre and Alexandra Theatre will be unavailable this year due to major refurbishment, following on from last year`s inaugural success, will be two exciting evening concerts under marquee on the Place St. Maur on Friday and Saturday evenings, 20 and 21 September. Kindly promoted by GB Music (Retail) in Aldwick Road, Bognor. The Friday concert will feature the brilliant band, Fred`s House with support from Olivia Stevens and Friends. Saturday evening will see the brilliant Gerry Colvin and Friends taking the stage supported by the very talented Mark Harrison.
Tickets for these concerts are just £12 or £20 for both available from the Festival website www.southdownsfolkfest.co.uk or call/text 07751 594285. For evening concert ticket bookings, go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/south-downs-music-festival-marquee-concerts-tickets-851403509817.
A GANDER AT THE GOOSE
BY Alice McD ougall
September is a time of change and new beginnings for many of us, and it is no different in the bird world. Spring visitors have left or will soon be leaving and our winter visitors will start arriving over the next few months. It is the autumn migration that makes Pagham Harbour such a lively winter reserve teeming with life.
You may not find geese the most exciting birds in the reserve, neither are they as elegant or aesthetically pleasing as others. But, when you hear that familiar ‘honking’ sound high in the sky, or see the huge flocks congregate on the mud banks of Pagham Harbour, you can see there is plenty you can appreciate about them.
There are eight native geese in the UK. The ‘black’ geese: Barnacle, Brent and Canada; and the ‘grey’ geese: Pink-footed, Greylag, Tundra Bean, Taiga Bean and White-fronted. The more colourful Egyptian Goose is also an all-year round resident of the UK but, as the name would suggest, it is not native having been introduced from the Nile Valley and south Sahara (in fact, they are not really a true goose and closely related to the shelduck).
Some of our geese (Canada, Barnacle and Greylag) will be found all year round in some parts of the UK, but numbers will increase dramatically in the winter when they are joined by migrating populations from the Arctic, Iceland, Greenland and Scandinavia. Other geese species will just spend the winter here to make the most of our warmer winter climate.
One intriguing behaviour of some geese is the V-formation or ‘skein’ they make when flying. This helps them preserve energy as each bird in the V creates a reduction in wind resistance for the one behind, allowing it to conserve energy. At intervals, the bird in the lead will drop back and another bird will take the helm – what a fabulous piece of teamwork. It is also believed that the V-formation plays an important role in the ways the birds communicate with each other, allowing them to keep track of each bird in the group, a formation that has been adopted by fighter pilots for the same reasons.
Other geese species such as the Brent, Barnacle and Pink-footed tend to fly in very large flocks, a behaviour that is associated with migration. Being in a large group saves energy and allows for the shared knowledge needed for their long journey. But how do winter migrants know when to leave their summer residencies? For geese inhabiting the cold climes of the Arctic or Siberia, it is factors such as the change of daylight length, lack of food sources and their readiness to begin the journey having built up sufficient fat stores. They will not always make the journey in one go and you may see large flocks taking a break to feed before continuing on to their destination.
This autumn at Pagham Harbour, you may see a flock pecking at the ground for some sustenance or flying noisily overhead – a joy of geese and their migratory journey.
To learn more about the Autumn Migration and to see some of our migrating waders, songbirds and seabirds, why not come along to our Migration Magic walk around Pagham Harbour
Saturday 14 September, 10am (duration 3½ hours). £8 per person / £5 members
To book: events.rspb.org.uk/paghamharbour
Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Please text or email only
HeidiLawrence
I am fully qualified with over 25 years experience Kinesiology
Hot Stones Massage
Deep Tissue / Sports Massage
Spinal Touch Therapy
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
Reiki & Energy Balancing
(I also incorporate various techniques such as accupressure, Thai stretching and muscle manipulation and cupping when needed)
From my lovely Felpham Village therapy room, I offer treatments for pain, injuries, muscle and joint tension, stiffness, gut issues, sleep disturbances, food intolerances, allergies, skin problems, fatigue, anxiety, emotional issues and so much more. For general relaxation, a full body Hot Stone Massage is a popular choice. I see people of all ages including children, and I work regularly in a local care home to help with age-related complaints. I very much look forward to welcoming new clients.
Please see my Facebook Page or website for info & offers
LOCAL HISTORY
BY SYLVIA ENDACOTT
I thought this month we could look at communications of the past in Middleton on Sea. It was just nearly 80 years ago that a call office was established on 8 October 1924 with the opening of the telephone exchange on 30 April 1924. It was in 1939 that the exchange was recorded in local directories as being located in Elmer Road. The local press took an interest reporting on 10 May 1924 that the telephone exchange was being established at the Post Office, hours of business were recorded as 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays – and open on a Sunday.
During the 1950s there were many changes taking place with the telephone service and there were comments in the press that “Middleton will soon be able to crow over Bognor Regis regarding the modernity of its telephone system.” It was anticipated that the service would be completely changed by the end of 1954. The switchover on 18 February 1954 took an amazing two mins and ten seconds and during the day all 980 persons – yes 980 – were contacted to ensure the service was working correctly. By 1954 there were no public call boxes in a “Middleton housing estate for use in making an emergency call in case of fire or illness,” the local press remarked.
In 1954 Mrs Collins, the Middleton postmistress, remarked she’d been the first telephone operator from 1926 with only 34 lines, this then increased to 496 in 1938 when it changed to an automatic system. During the initial period there were public phone boxes for 999 services.
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 23 SEPTEMBER - 1900 for 1945 hrs
‘Flying For Fun!’
Presented by Mr Alan Key
Alan Key has been in aviation for over 50 years since joining the Fleet Air Arm in 1969. Whilst in the Fleet Air Arm he flew fast jets and helicopters. He served on various aircraft carriers and at the end of his Royal Navy career he became a military aircraft accident investigator.
On leaving the Navy he became a freelance journalist and an aviation tour guide, travelling the world escorting enthusiasts and arranging pleasure flights in unique or rare vintage aircraft and helicopters. Alan will be sharing some of the experiences he has had and aircraft he has flown in, over the last 30 years or so.
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.
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.
TRAILING THE TALL TREES
BY SIMON BAKER IRONS
As the summer soon turns to autumn its always great to get into the woods to see the leaves changing colours. An area of woodland I recently discovered is the Tall Trees Trail and Blackwater Arboretum in the New Forest. Just over an hour’s drive, near Lyndhurst, is the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive where the arboretum can be found along with some incredible Redwoods and firs that were planted in the late 1850’s.
There are two trails that start at Blackwater car park on Rhinefield Ornamental Drive which is just off the A35 (be aware the parking can get very busy at weekends and peak times), the car park has toilet facilities, an information point and picnic tables.
From the car park go under the carved oak archway and cross the road to the start of either of the trails.
Blackwater Arboretum
Located around the short circular route of the arboretum are some very different trees from around the world, along with wooden sculptures of the seeds from a sycamore, oak, Douglas fir and redwood, which have been inspired by the woodlands along Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.
• After crossing the road continue along the gravel track a short way to a second archway and gate that leads into the arboretum.
• You can go either left or right to walk in a large circle around this small collection of nationally important trees from all over the world,
• To head back simply retrace your steps back through the two, oak archways back to the car park or continue the walk around the Tall Trees Trail.
Tall Trees Trail
Walking along the circular ‘Tall Trees Trail’ you will see a fascinating array of huge trees that are made up of impressive towering Douglas firs and mighty Redwoods, the trees along this drive are the largest trees to be found in the New Forest. The giant sequoia tree (redwood) found here can grow to be the largest living thing on earth, sensory information boards along the route provide fascinating facts about these tough trees and compare them with the trees that are the biggest in the world.
• After crossing the road from the car park, turn right and follow the path signed ‘Tall Trees Trail’. The path is a flat and smooth gravelled surface with places to stop, rest and enjoy the benefits of being in the woods.
• Follow the trail as it winds through the trees. Go over a small, wooden bridge and follow the pinecone way marked posts along the trail which keeps parallel to the road.
• The trail continues towards Brock Hill Car Park. Just before you reach the car park the trail bends right and crosses the road. After crossing, head right, following the pinecone way markers. The trail then winds its way back to the car park.
On the return to the car park why not enjoy some New Forest ice cream from the local van or have a picnic in these lovely woods.
To see more photos and walks please follow me on Instagram @piertopiertrekking
ARTIST OF THE MONTH: KATE MERCY
BY KATE STEWART
Barnham resident Kate Mercy moved to West Sussex in December 2016. She has always had a passion for glass and fell in love with it from the moment she tried glass fusing in 2018.
Kate explains: “Art and crafts were hardly visible where I moved from and so it was a fantastic surprise to find so much in this area. I love meeting with artists from all disciplines and I love sharing knowledge and ideas.
“I have always had a passion for glass and fell in love from the moment I tried glass fusing in 2018. I use different types of glass and techniques to explore the colour, texture and beauty of glass and the wondrous effects when light shines through it.
“Everything I have learnt is self-taught, but I am continually evolving new ideas and pushing the boundaries. I believe there is no limit to creativity and innovation and every artist has their own style. I create individual pieces, decorative, functional and wall art with my inspiration often coming from this beautiful area and its natural beauty.
“I particularly enjoy running workshops where I share my knowledge with others. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing people’s faces when they see what they have made. I take commissions where I enjoy working with the customer to get exactly what they have envisaged for their home, and I have also given talks to local groups about what I do and the history of glass fusing.”
To find out where Kate is showing/selling her creations please visit www.katemercy.co.uk or keep an eye on her social media Facebook and Instagram @katemercyglass. Or feel free to email: kate.mercy@gmail.com.
Please
THE FELPHAM HISTORY GROUP
BY MARION BROOKS AND LIZZIE MICKERY
‘History is not just about the past, we are making history as we speak. It is important to record what is happening now and what has happened in the recent past. Look at the changes during our lifetime and record them for our children and grandchildren.’ These are the words of the late Sue Tressler, an Archivist and Felpham Village History Group member, 2015.
The possible loss of the Felpham Village Post Office was the catalyst for some of the work on display at the 2024 Felpham Village Conservation Fete. The posters provided images of past and present shops, businesses and key buildings. It reflected much that had changed or disappeared over recent time. So many people were drawn to the stall by the pictures of buildings they knew, or, had no idea existed. A café, auction house, shops on Summerley Corner as late as 2001. Of great interest were the pubs, especially the one Felpham lost, the Hero of the Nile, named after the Battle of the Nile in 1798, Nelson’s great victory over Napoleon. Maps, leaflets, stories, so much to browse.
Around every corner of Felpham are reminders of our past, the smugglers, the World War II victims. Our graveyard is the sacred resting place for many - military, jazz musicians, and the families who have built on the foundations of the village “Felhamme” whose earliest recorded mention is in 880 AD.
The Felpham History Group, under the auspices of the FVCS, meets once a month to discuss their latest research. Some members are active researchers and archivists, others are just happy to chat about their fellow members’ findings. Whichever appeals to you, you would be most welcome to join us. Our next meeting is 24 September in the small hall, St Mary’s Centre, Grassmere Close, Felpham PO22 7NU. Do come along.
Next year it’s the 80th anniversary of the end of World War ll. Did you have relatives who were in Felpham or the environs at the time and passed down their recollections or memorabilia? Perhaps they had contact with the Canadian soldiers who were billeted here? Or did they themselves serve during the war? What was the effect on the families left behind to worry? The bombs, the rations, the dances!! We’d love to hear from you in a view to putting on an exhibition. Please email info@thefelphamhistorygroup.net
SUSSEX IN SUMMER BY KATE STEWART
Thank you to everyone who entered the In Focus Photography Competition – Summer in Focus. We had some incredible entries (see below) and three have been chosen to appear on the front covers of all three September In Focus Magazines – Felpham in Focus (by Louise Lucking), Villages in Focus (by Linda Treloar) and Bersted in Focus (by Graham Digger). Congratulations to all those who entered.
Louise Lucking. David Taylor. Barry Keen.
REALLY WILD BOGNOR AND FELPHAM
BY GILLIAN EDOM
We need to pay more attention to the fact that, for many reasons, biodiversity is under threat and if we don’t put some effort into protecting it, we will destroy our own life support system. Of course there isn’t much we can do on a global scale, but everyone could do something close to home. The Really Wild Bognor and Felpham network has just been set up to provide a link between local people who are interested in, involved in, knowledgeable about and care for the environment, and also those who would like to help restore the natural world.
By creating this network, enabling people to connect with other people of similar interest or intent, we want to provide a platform where people can inform others about local projects and activities, can share their own efforts and ideas and provide inspiration for people to continue what they are already doing for the natural world or to start something new.
If anyone is interested in joining this network, we have a Facebook group named called Really Wild in Bognor and Felpham and a WhatsApp group. Please contact me for further information on gillianae@hotmail.co.uk.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR A-LEVEL
GRADES ARE POOR
BY TRACEY ANDERSON
Receiving disappointing A-level results can be a stressful, disheartening experience, but it's important to remember that it's not the end of the world. Here are some steps to help you navigate this challenging time:
1. Stay Calm and Seek Support. First, take a deep breath. It’s crucial to remain calm and composed. Talk to family, friends, and teachers about your results. They can offer valuable support and perspective during this time.
2. Review Your Options. Visit the UCAS website to explore Clearing. Clearing allows you to apply for courses that still have vacancies. Many universities offer great courses through this system. Check the UCAS Track to see if you are eligible and browse available courses.
3. Contact Universities. If you missed your firm or insurance offers, don’t hesitate to contact the admissions departments directly. They may still accept you, particularly if you were only marginally off the required grades or have relevant experience that could make you a valuable candidate.
4. Consider Re-marks and Resits. If you believe there’s been a mistake with your grades, speak to your school about the possibility of getting your papers re-marked. Additionally, resitting exams is another option. Though it means an extra year, it could improve your chances of getting into your desired course.
5. Explore Alternative Paths. Look into alternative qualifications, apprenticeships, or vocational courses. These can offer practical skills and experience that are highly valued in the job market. Taking a gap year to gain work experience or travel can also be beneficial and give you time to reassess your options.
Remember, many successful people faced setbacks during their education. Use this experience as an opportunity to explore new avenues and grow stronger in your career journey.
Asahomeowner,yourpropertyisprobablyyourbiggestasset,buthaveyou everconsideredreleasingsomeofthetax-freecashtiedupinit? Bestofall,youcanusethecashlumpsumhoweveryouwish:
Ifyou’reaUKhomeowneraged55orover,withapropertyvalueofatleast £70,000,thenalifetimemortgagecouldberightforyou. ArrangeaFREEnoobligationappointmenttoday:
WHEREFORE ART THOU … INSPIRATION?
BY FELPHAM-BASED AUTHOR JOHN CHARLES HALL
The question every author is asked, about every book they write: What inspired you? Where did you get your inspiration?
Having penned a trilogy: Under the Yew Tree, Ash before Oak and The Holly and the Ivy, I know this is not such an easy question to answer. Few real-life incidents warrant an entire story or novel; most are mundane eventualities best forgotten! But if you start collecting them; talking to people who were there, noting them down and carrying out further research, they grow in substance.
My first thought about writing a novel was some time ago, but I’m still not sure what or why it happened. I have no idea what triggered it, but I woke one morning with an entire outline of a story in my head. It was so vivid in my mind that I jumped out of bed and wrote down the chapter headings so I didn’t ‘lose the plot’ – literally!
Writing it down enabled me to keep the thoughts together until I was ready to write. Honestly, until the day I published, the actual bare bones of the story didn’t change. But there was a curious development.
I thought my story was about the French Resistance – it followed the same plot, but in my mind, it was set in France, not England. I was thinking about the French Resistance, yet something didn’t feel right. Until it clicked and I realised the story was about the English resistance. Then I thought of my father, some of the stories he told me, plus others I had heard and the whole thing flowed …
I know my father was in the Home Guard during World War II, during which he carried out night patrols. But why did he have a machine gun under his bed? Was an invasion by German forces really that likely? I started my research and discovered how close this country was to an invasion – with Churchill’s ‘secret army’ – and that set my imagination on fire.
So, I put my mind to it and started putting meat on the bones of my story, which I steadily padded out over the years, whenever I read, heard or saw something that might fit. I researched areas that interested me, collecting ideas, notes, images. We know a great deal about the French Resistance; the Spanish and the Italian, but what would we have done here in Britain? How would we have coped and defended our little island?
I imagined landscapes and countryside that I knew so well from childhood and once I imagined I was in the locations, I could feel the presence through my senses, hear the twigs snap, smell the damp earth in the yew forest and the cool spring air … the pieces of the jigsaw fitted together, and the story wrote itself, as they say!
So, Under the Yew Tree was born, but I realised that there was more of the story to tell, and so, Ash before Oak and The Holly and the Ivy soon followed.
To order a copy of one or all thee of John’s books visit or download from amazon.co.uk.
John Hall.
by simply replacing the doors and worktops
› Up to 50% less than a new fully fitted kitchen
› Replacement kitchen doors
› Cost e ective made to measure solution
› Worktops and appliances
› Quick installation in 2-3 days by local professionals
13 The Square, Barnham, Bognor Regis, PO22 0HB
Call us now for a free estimate:
MAKING IT UP!
PART ONE BY FELPHAM FASHION GURU VICKY BOOKER
I love make-up. I remember standing in Gamleys toy shop in Bognor, staring at the Tinkerbell make-up sets with such a longing, knowing I wouldn’t be allowed to have them! As soon as I could buy my own things, I was off – Constance Carol rollerball gloss, classic Heather Shimmer lipstick from Rimmel, and No.17 eye palettes, you name it, I probably had it.
Now, I feel like a child in a toy shop again I get to ‘play’ with make-up as part of my job! Though, I understand the importance of the right shades, and know how to use make-up to enhance people’s features rather than simply covering everything up.
Here are some of my top tips – there were so many I could share a second instalment to follow!
It’s all about the base
Like with decorating, a great finish relies on a good base so prepping your skin is key. What goes into a great skincare routine is a whole other article, but generally cleansing well and ensuring your skin is hydrated is the best starting point.
Next up I like to use skin primers to even skin tone and cover any obvious blemishes – it may look odd, but a yellow based primer is great for shadows, and a green tone for disguising and redness. Apply the yellow-based primer under the eye but not all the way – focus on an inverted ‘c’ shape in the corner of the eye by the bridge of the nose, and then a dab on the outer corner to really brighten those peeps!
Good foundations
Many of my clients say they don’t like the look or feel of it on their skin, but a great foundation can give a lovely glow. It’s all about choosing the right undertone, shade and texture so it looks even, but not ‘caked’ on. As we get older, heavier and matt foundations can emphasise wrinkles, so a lighter base is often best; I generally prefer liquid bases for this reason.
Tools of the trade
I always apply base with a brush as you can blend well into any nooks and crannies! It gives an ‘airbrushed’ finish and unlike sponges, doesn’t waste product. In fact, I use brushes for most products – in particular eyeshadow as you need to blend well for a modern youthful finish. A foundation brush, two for eyes (one medium and one finer) and a blusher brush that can double as a bronzer or powder are enough to get you started. This kit by one of my favourites Ecotools is a great all-rounder.
A makeup application is a part of the Confident Colour sessions I offer. We look at the best shades for your make up as well as your clothing, after all, you’re wearing it on your face, so it makes a big difference to get this right. I also offer make-up lessons so you can work on the best techniques to get it right. Get in touch to level up your makeup look today.
Want personalised advice? Book a Style Consultation with me. Vickybooker.com or contact me for info – vicky@vickybooker.com
Make-up consultation with Vicky Booker.
Down
1. Church district (6)
2. Portable lamp (7)
3. In this day and age (8)
4. Lament, moan (4)
5. Pass out (5)
CROSSWORD
Across
1. Eastern European country (6)
4. Thin crisp biscuit (5)
8. Overhaul, modernise (5)
9. Loudly, uproariously (7)
10. Slim, lithe (7)
11. Skin irritation (4)
12. Top, cover (3)
14. Jealousy (4)
6. Beat pattern (6)
7. Growl, grumble (5)
13. Spilled the beans, disclosed (8)
16. Assassinate, kill (7)
17. Four-sided shape (6)
15. Type of goat (4)
18. Weep, cry (3)
21. Retort, riposte (4)
23. Guitar-like instrument (7)
25. Conceded, endorsed (7)
26. Emaciated, cadaverous (5)
27. Black (5)
28. Onset, arrival (6)
19. Chum, mate (5)
20. Group of six (6)
22. Eskimo house! (5)
24. Rock rhythmically (4)
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) Specialists
• Samples brought to you • PPE & Safety proceedures
The beauty of LVT is the ability to create unique designs and patterns as you would with natural materials. It is possible to mimic real stone, ceramic and wood flooring using tiles, planks and more recently parquet.
Today's manufacturing techniques give incredible realistic results almost indistinguishable from the real thing as they are also textured to mimic the real materials, yet it is incredibly hard wearing, designed to withstand the rigours of modern day life.
The diversity and practicality of LVT makes it a winner anywhere in the home, office or any other area that needs floor coverings.
We will be delighted to help you realise your ideas. We can also provide creative input and expert advcie during the planning phase of your project.
Why Use Us?
Specialists in LVT
Competitive prices
Free estimates & advice
Samples brought to you
Fully insured
Full PPE and Safety
Local to Felpham
Accreditations
LVT is perfect for your Garden Room or Garden Pub project! Come and talk to the experts!
FELPHAM PARISH COUNCIL NEWS
Council contacts for Felpham residents:
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL
Responsible for education, transport, planning, fire and public safety, social care, libraries, waste management, trading standards.
West Sussex County Council Highways: Pavements and verges, weed control, parking, potholes, footpaths/public rights of way, vehicles abandoned and causing an obstruction, streetlights, fly tipping, flooding, blocked drains and gullies, problems with pavements and roads.
Did you know that you can report a problem including potholes or overgrown vegetation and be updated on progress?
https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/make-an-enquiry-or-report-a-problem-with-aroad-or-pavement/
County Councillor for Felpham: Councillor Jaine Wild Email: jaine.wild@westsussex.gov.uk
ARUN DISTRICT COUNCIL
Responsible for rubbish collection, recycling, Council Tax collections, housing, planning applications, Felpham car parks, Felpham parks and open spaces, playgrounds.
Local Councillors are elected by the community to decide how the council should carry out its various activities. They represent public interest as well as individuals living within the ward in which he or she has been elected to serve a term of office. They have regular contact with the general public through council meetings, telephone calls or surgeries.
Felpham East Councillors:
Councillor Joan English – Email: cllr.Joan.English@arun.gov.uk
Councillor Tom Harty – Email: cllr.thomas.harty@arun.gov.uk
Felpham West Councillors:
Councillor Gill Madeley – Email: Cllr.Gill.Madeley@arun.gov.uk
Councillor Elaine Stainton – Email: cllr.elaine.stainton@arun.gov.uk
FELPHAM PARISH COUNCIL
As the first level of government, Felpham Parish Council is the channel for action on much of the local infrastructure that we take for granted. Councillors are elected and can help on a number of local issues. We are organised into committees who, along with Main Council, meet monthly. We pay for free parking in two local car parks, ensure the grass verges, footpaths and open spaces are kept tidy and make grants to causes which benefit Felpham residents. We are responsible for two local allotment sites, other open spaces, and have placed commemorative benches and planted many trees throughout Felpham.
• We monitor all planning applications in the Parish and, using our local knowledge, we advise Arun District Council of the action we believe that they should take.
• Every summer, we organise a free Fun on the Prom event for Felpham residents and their families and a new free event for Halloween – Freaky Felpham.
• Residents are always very welcome to attend our meetings and dates are advertised on our website and in parish noticeboards.
This free family event will take place on Sunday 27th October 2024
Meeting at Grassmere Car Park 4pm
Game and Surprises – Prizes – Entertainment – Light Refreshments
Special performance by the ‘Nightwalker’ FANCY DRESS REQUIRED
We look forward to seeing you there!
Felpham Parish Council, Felpham Community Hall, Meaden Way, Felpham, West Sussex, PO22 8FA, Tel:01243 827470, Mon-Fri, 10.00am-3.00pm. Web: https://felphampc.gov.uk Email: clerk@felphampc.gov.uk Twitter: @FelphamPC
Please mention FELPHAM IN FOCUS when responding to adverts
COAST TO COAST BY KATE STEWART
Proud to be trading in the heart of Bognor Regis for 15 years, Coastline Bathrooms & Kitchens has proven it truly is a business that has stood the test of time.
Chris and Shenel Durmush are the sole owners of Coastline and they are proud to continue to offer the high level of customer care and service they pride themselves on.
Shenel says: “Our business stands out from the crowd offering truly bespoke designs that cater to each client's unique tastes and preferences as well as budgets. Whether it's replacing a bath for a walk-in shower or a luxurious, spa-like bathroom, Coastline Bathrooms & Kitchens ensures that every project is tailored to perfection.
"Our installation team are second to none, we retain our own fitters to ensure the work is always completed to the high standard that they have been trained to deliver. A business is nothing without its loyal and dedicated workers and for that we are truly grateful."
As they look to the future, Chris and Shenel are excited to continue evolving and innovate. Shenel adds: “We always try to stay ahead of design trends and technological advancements to provide our clients with the very best in home interiors. I hope our passion and dedication will ensure that Coastline Bathrooms & Kitchens will remain a beloved fixture in Bognor Regis for many more years to come.”
For further information visit Shenel at Coastline Bathrooms & Kitchens Ltd.
26 Queensway, Bognor Regis, PO211QT or visit www.coastline-interiors.co.uk
WHAT'S ON THE QUEEN MOTHER
An Evening with Jeremy Mainwaring-Burton (LVO) – The Queen Mother’s Lifelong Love of Jewellery. Former equerry, Jeremy Mainwaring-Burton, gives a highly entertaining, illustrated talk on a selection of the Queen Mother’s jewels, many of which are of gemmological and historic interest and have an amusing story attached. Tickets £15: to include a glass of wine on arrival. Telephone 01243 572433 or visit www.thesussexsnowdroptrust.com.
Venue: Boxgrove Village Hall, PO18 0EE. Friday 27 September 7pm. Event in aid of The Sussex Snowdrop Trust.
CHICHESTER NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY for SEPTEMBER
Wednesday 4 September. Illustrated Talk by John Arnott on ‘Harbour Plants – What Did They Do for Us?’ to the Chichester Natural History Society at The Pallant Suite, Masonic Hall, South Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1SY at 7.30 pm. Entrance members free/visitors, £2. 01243 786079 wheelchair access.
RSPB Zoom Meeting for SEPTEMBER
Thursday 26 September. David Ramsden on Climate and Ecological Crisis – What’s all the Fuss About? Meeting starts at 7.00 pm. The talks are free to all RSPB Chichester Local Group members and £4 each to non-members. Places are limited, so please book your place in advance by contacting Rob Yarham – chichesterbirds@gmail.com, tel: 07545 376074.
Chris and Shenel Durmush.
The Queen Mother.
Please
PLATINUM PLANS BY
JANE SUMMERVILLE
A new stained glass window for the late Queen Elizabeth II and the Felpham community is planned for St Mary’s Church in Felpham. The Platinum Window, as it has become called will commemorate the late Queen Elizabeth II’s extraordinary life of service.
The Platinum Window will replace one of plain glass that was installed, amongst others, after most of St Mary’s stained-glass windows were blown out in World War II. The window itself is a tall, “twolight” window (meaning its two vertical “lights” or narrow panels of glass are separated by a mullion), in the south wall of the Chancel.
So, why stained-glass in a church? The Stained-Glass Museum, in Ely Cathedral says that, although the Anglo-Saxons may have used coloured glass and lead in windows, it was in the Middle Ages that stained-glass windows became commonplace in religious settings. Through them, bible stories could be depicted for lay people – with the colours and light helping to radiate the message.
According to the V&A Museum, London, stained-glass got its name from the silver nitrate stain that was painted onto the back of the glass, before firing. During the firing process, the stain burnt into the glass’s surface, creating a range of colours from pale yellow to dark orange. Later, the discovery and firing of other vitreous enamel substances applied to glass gave rise to purples, blues and greens.
Stained glass will replace the window (interior photo below) which you can see from outside the church (furthest on the right, above).
The word glass itself is thought to originate, ultimately, from the Germanic word “glæ”, a variant of “glô”, meaning “to shine”. This is apt because the plain glass window in St Mary’s means that the full force of sunlight shines through its panes – directly into the eyes of the Director of Music and Choir, on the Chancel’s north side, rendering it difficult for them to see what they are doing! A stained-glass window would diffuse this light and so have a practical purpose.
However, the primary reason for the Platinum Window is to remember the late Queen’s life of service. This September will be the second anniversary of her death, just three months after her Platinum Jubilee weekend. In her Platinum Jubilee message, she signed herself “Your servant, Elizabeth R”.
This June saw the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings. The year after the largest amphibian invasion undertaken, the late Queen, then a princess, joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service, learning to drive and maintain vehicles –giving service to the war effort. If duty is something a person is legally or morally expected to do, service is about subordinating oneself to the needs and greater good of others. Queen Elizabeth II was the embodiment of service (and duty) until her death.
The Platinum Window will be available for all to visit. St Mary’s Church is open to everyone whether of Christian or other faith, or none. If you feel you can donate to the Platinum Window Appeal, please go to: https://justgiving.com/stmarysfelpham
Registered Charity Number 1133732
SUPER SATAY SKEWERS
September is often a perfect time to barbecue and here is a brilliant recipe to try. The sauce is so delicious you’ll be dipping everything into it!
Preparation time: 20 minutes plus 30 minutes marinading time
Cooking time: Satay 10 minutes. Grilled Chicken 20-25 minute. Serves: 4.
INGREDIENTS
Marinade
1 tbsp coriander seeds
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped.
2.5cm piece of ginger, finely chopped
3 tbsp finely chopped lemongrass
2 kaffir lime leaves, shredded
For the sauce
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp brown sugar
500g skinless, boneless chicken thighs
2 bird’s eye chillies seeded and finely chopped
5 shallots, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/2 tsp shrimp paste
1 tbsp vegetable oil
150ml coconut milk
Method
2 tbsp brown sugar
150g unsalted peanuts, roasted and roughly chopped (or finely ground if you prefer a smoother sauce)
Juice of 1 lime
• Toast the coriander seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, and then grind to a powder in a pestle and mortar. Add the garlic, ginger, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves and pound to a rough paste along with a generous grinding of black pepper. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in the oil, soy sauce and sugar.
• Cut the chicken into long strips about 3cm wide and stir into the marinade, mixing well. Cover, refrigerate and leave to marinade for at least 30 minutes. While the chicken is marinating soak eight wooden skewers in water until ready to use.
• Meanwhile, make the sauce. Put the chillies, shallots, garlic, and shrimp paste into a pestle and mortar, or the small bowl of a food processor, and pound or blitz to a paste. Heat the oil in a wok or wide frying pan, and then fry the paste for a couple of minutes or until it smells cooked. Add the coconut milk and brown sugar and simmer for a couple more minutes, then add the peanuts and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in the soy sauce and lime juice, add a little water or coconut milk if it's too thick, then taste to check the balance of flavours; add more lime juice, sugar, or soy sauce to your own taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Thread the strips of meat onto the skewers in an "S" shape. Pushing them down so they all touch. Cook the skewers on a barbecue, or a griddle pan over a medium-high heat, for about 20 minutes until cooked through, turning regularly. Serve with the sauce, crispy fried shallots, and a green salad.
Transferring property into your children’s names - the pitfalls!
by Mark Riley, Founder & Managing Partner, MJR Solicitors
I often hear - “If I transfer my home into my children’s names, I can avoid Inheritance Tax or Care Home Fees”
WRONG. Only in very specific circumstances might this be applicable.
So why can’t you do this? Well, you could gift the home to them if you had other means to support yourself and didn’t need the money. However, if you remain in the home then it is very likely this transfer would be a gift with reservation of benefit and therefore subject to these pitfalls and classed as belonging to you when calculating Inheritance Tax. Should you make the transfer with the intention of solely avoiding care homes fees then it could be considered a deliberate deprivation of assets, and basically on the surface, it might seem like the perfect way to protect your children’s inheritance, but local authorities are increasingly wise to these type of schemes, with teams in place to ensure residents are not using them to get out of paying rising care costs.
I am often contacted by people who say they are putting in place a Protective Property Trust often for thousands of pounds and sometimes this is incorrect and they have received poor advice. If you are considering a Lifetime Trust for your property or assets it is important for us to understand why you want to do this, and look at some of the key areas in which we may be able to assist you.
So, what do you need to consider when transferring your property to a child’s name? Well, firstly, you no longer own it. They could remove you from the property, hopefully unlikely as they are your children but you are no longer the owner. They could simply sell the property as owners. If you wish to move, you are not the owner, it’s up to your children if they let you.
So, let’s say you’ve made the transfer. Your son is the legal owner, so far, so good. But what if they get divorced? Your house is owned by him, your son’s soon to be ex-wife can make a claim against that property which would be legitimate. There is also the issue of their finances, what if they go bankrupt? Well, sadly you would lose
the house, it forms part of their bankruptcy, any creditors could potentially seek to realise your home address in order to repay any debts to them.
Let’s not be too pessimistic, your son didn’t get married and is a successful businessman and owns his own home. Well, he might have to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on your house. This is more his problem than yours but If your children are not living in your property when you transfer it into their names it will be subject to Capital Gains Tax when they come to sell it. This means that if the property increases in value after being transferred over to your children, they may then be liable to pay tax on it.
As you can see, there are some pitfalls to this transfer and I can’t stress enough the need to seek appropriate professional advice.
If you were thinking of transferring your property to children, some or all of these issues may apply to you. Therefore, it is essential to seek proper legal advice.
For more info, contact us now to book your free 30-minute consultation and we can review your situation with a view to giving you the best possible legal advice to avoid the pitfalls.
Trusted, knowledgeable, by your side
Tel: 01243 945054
info@mjrsolicitors.co.uk www.mjrsolicitors.co.uk
Recent Client Feedback:
“Worthy of 5 stars and more. Communications were extremely timely. Exemplary customer service and super efficient. Such a lovely friendly team. Thank you all very much”
Expert Estate & Inheritance Tax Planning
Protecting the inheritance interests of your family and loved ones is vital, so the people you name in your will, your beneficiaries, can inherit your estate after you die. There can be many pitfalls if not done properly. Strategic planning and professional legal advice is crucial when deciding what type of Will is best for you, and how to minimise your Inheritance Tax liability. Our expert advice will help maximise your assets for your beneficiaries to benefit from in the years to come.
BEAUTY IN FOCUS
BY SIOBHAN FARRELL
Hello, my name is Siobhan Farrell, owner of SF Beauty, a luxury home-based beauty salon in Yapton. I am a qualified beauty therapist and make-up artist with 15 years experience and in January this year I decided set up my own business to work around my two young children.
One of my main interests is education, I believe you can never learn too much. The Beauty industry is ever evolving, there are always new treatments to explore but it’s important for me that even the simplest of treatments, such as an eyebrow wax, is carried out with precision and attention to detail - there will be no cutting corners here! I take huge pride in my friendly and professional customer service and I always strive to deliver high quality treatments.
With this monthly column I plan to give you all some interesting tips and tricks to enhance your natural beauty, which is what my whole ethos is about. I also want to answer any questions you might have so please do send them into me.
This month I wanted to focus on how to keep your skin glowing going into autumn. Like the seasons, our skin changes and autumn can be tough on our skin due to the changing weather and decreasing humidity. To combat any dryness that can come with cooler weather we need to switch to a more hydrating moisturiser. The best ingredients to help with this are hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides.
The skin can also become duller, so including an exfoliating step to your routine 1-2 times a week will really help. Consider using a gentle enzyme-based exfoliant to gently brighten the complexion as overexfoliating can lead to irritation.
Don’t ditch your SPF suncream! Protecting your skin from the elements is a must! We may not have too many sunny days ahead, but UV rays and free radicals will still cause havoc on our skin. We should be using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every single day to prevent ageing and any damage to our skin.
Your Beauty Questions Answered:
Q: Is there a natural, non-surgical way to get rid of wrinkles?
A: The best way to soften and smooth wrinkles naturally is to keep the skin hydrated and protected daily by using a good moisturiser containing the active ingredient hyaluronic acid, and wearing a high SPF 50. Manual lifting massage to the facial contours whilst applying your products can also help.
Q: Does dying your eyelashes mean you don’t have to use mascara? How long does it last? Does it damage the eyelashes?
A: By having an eyelash tint (dye) this will make the lashes appear darker and longer, however it doesn’t add volume like a mascara would. To create a more lifted ‘mascara’ effect, I would recommend an eyelash lift and tint combo! This lasts 6-8 weeks and can be repeated again once your lashes have grown out to their original state to avoid any damage. I always advise using a lash conditioning serum inbetween treatments to keep your lashes moisturised and strong.
Email your beauty/skincare questions for Siobhan to: office@infocusmagazines.co.uk and put Beauty In Focus in the heading. For more information on bespoke skin consultations and types of facial treatments please contact Siobhan via her website www.sfbeautystudio.co.uk
STITCHING IT UP!
BY DEIRDRE SIBTHORPE
STITCHMAKERS is a group of friends who have worked together for many years on their creative stitch ideas. Established in 1998 we have always worked with around 12 people in the group. Between us we have a range of qualifications from City and Guilds part 1 and 2 in Creative Techniques and Patchwork, Degrees in Art and Design, NCFE in Machine Embroidery and attended many workshops by well-known textile artists.
We mostly work on our own pieces but occasionally a situation arises where we work collaboratively and take much of our inspiration from surrounding landscapes, seascapes, gardens, wild environments and buildings. We all have our own style using a variety of techniques including machine and hand stitching, painting, printing, felting, beading, appliqué and 3D.
As a group we like to challenge ourselves with workshops, critique and exhibitions. This can only be achieved by feeling “comfortable” working together and building confidence and close friendships.
We have exhibited at The Oxmarket, Chichester, Sullington Barns, and Denmans Gardens, and individuals take part in Art Trails and Ramster Exhibitions.
As working in design, creativity and handling colour, shape and form, is all good for the Right Side of the brain, and with the fun of working as a group, we all feel the benefit .
This is our third year at Denmans Gardens, a beautiful venue with inspiration all around.
Denmans Gardens, Denmans Lane, Arundel, BN18 0SU SEPTEMBER 6th-15th – 10-4pm every day – With MID-PINES CAFE on site.
Let Barnham Windows & Conservatories bring your property in from the cold with our fantastic range of A+ energy rated double & triple glazed windows
Lower your energy bills by improving the energy performance of your home.
Safe and secure - all our windows come with accredited security features.
Designed for you – with a limitless choice of colours and styles available.
Peace of Mind - All our installations come with an insurance backed guarantee and CERTASS certification*
Windows Available ✔ Casement
✔ Sliding Sash
✔ Tilt & Turn
✔ Georgian
✔ Shaped
✔ Leaded
✔ Horned Sash & Flush Sash
Doors Available
✔ Patio doors
✔ Residential Doors
✔ Bi-Folding Doors
✔ Composite Doors
Contact our experienced and friendly team for a free no obligation quote today info@barnhamwindows.co.uk |
553 586
Visit our showroom Windmill Shopping Village, Yapton Road, Barnham PO22 0BD or our website www.barnhamwindows.co.uk for further information
*Where applicable
ART IN FELPHAM
BY JOHN KING OCTOBER
The Felpham Art Group proudly boasts some of the finest and most talented artists in West Sussex amongst its membership. They have also encouraged younger artists to join the group whose membership ranges from top professional artists to ‘new’ beginners, so plenty of help and advice is available and on hand.
The group organizes painting workshops where members can receive one to one guidance from professional artists, on subjects such as still life, landscape, life study, print making etc.
The frequent painting demonstrations given by well-known visiting professional artists are also very popular with the members, where valuable tricks, tips and advice are readily shared with the group by the artist.
The 2024 season of the ever-popular Felpham Art Group’s Sunday seafront art exhibitions got off to a brilliant start on 21 July, followed by the 28th with many visitors taking home both happy holiday memories and a new painting. There is another seafront exhibition to follow on Bank Holiday Monday 26 August and the final exhibition is being held on Sunday 1 September. The Autumn exhibition will be on 12 and 13 October. The doors are open from 10am until 5pm and there will be around 200 paintings exhibited.
Refreshments will be available and somewhere to sit and enjoy them and some of the proceeds from these exhibitions will go to help support the Friends of the Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital. The Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital also houses an art exhibition that is open 24/7 displaying some 50 paintings to view and for sale.
If you like painting, then you could do no better for yourself than to join an art group. You may think that you are not good enough, what better reason to join, as you will have access to the painting demonstrations, workshops with one to one help and advice and so on, and where better to be than with like-minded people. We all have to start somewhere … even the professionals.
If your hobby is painting, and you would like to take it further, why not be our guest visitor at our next painting demonstration. Just call Terry Collins on 07988707360 Seafront exhibition address: Blakes PO22 7EE and Norfolk Centre: Mill Road. Arundel BN18 9PAA. We look forward to meeting you.
HomevisitscoveringFelpham,Middleton&Elmer () additionalmileagecostsforoutofarea
Physiotherapyinyourhome witharehabilitationspecialist Treatmentsavailable:
··obilityssessmenxerciserescription MatEp
·Rehabilitationofovement m
·Softissueassageandltraoundreatment tmust ·Posturgeryehabilitation sr ·allsreventionandalanceraining Fpbt
·Airwaylearancereathlessnessanagement candbm lc forungonditions
Email: eviehoward8@gmail.com www.evelynhowardphysioathome.co.uk
A GOOD READ
BY NATASHA DONOVAN
The Swallows by Lisa Lutz
Alexandra Witt is a new teacher at the prestigious Stonebridge Academy where she quickly stumbles upon undercurrents of sexual exploitation and manipulation, which are poisoning the school. Disturbed by the casual acceptance of such behaviour, Witt takes it upon herself to empower the students, especially the girls, to challenge the status quo. This sparks a rebellion that gradually exposes the toxic culture perpetuated by a select group of male students known as "the darkroom.
Lutz's narrative is sharp and fast-paced, weaving multiple viewpoints that allow the reader an insider view as events unfold within the school. Each character offers a unique perspective which serves to highlight the complexity of teenage dynamics and adult responsibilities.
The climax of the book is both shocking and satisfying, providing a resolution that feels both inevitable and earned. The reader will be left pondering the dynamics of power and the courage required to overturn them.
The Swallows is a darkly intriguing novel that blends elements of suspense with biting social commentary, which makes it stand out in the densely populated thriller genre. The writing is both witty and sharp, infused with a sardonic tone that perfectly complements the serious themes she tackles.
Boys Don't Cry by Fiona Scarlett
While not strictly young adult fiction, I’m recommending Boys Don't Cry for older teens, because it tells the story of two brothers, Joe, aged 17, who is a talented artist, and Finn, aged 12, through their own words. The boys live in a tower block in Dublin with their mother, and father (known as Da’) who works for a local gang leader and is in and out of prison.
Joe’s accounts of how he is dealing with traumatic loss, while struggling against the criminal influences of his father and the expectations everyone else has of him, that he's destined for a life of crime, is heartbreaking. Finn on the other hand relates his experiences of being diagnosed with and treated for leukaemia, and the effect he sees this having on his brother and parents.
Scarlett's prose is beautiful and the voices of the two boys are believable and authentic. Teen readers will quickly identify with and become emotionally invested in the brothers as their stories intertwine in the most impactful way.
The author skilfully weaves humour through the sometimes harrowing themes, because even at life's darkest moments, or perhaps because of them, there are always flashes of hilarity.
The stories of Joe, Finn and the other characters who live in 'The Jax' tower block will stay with the reader for a long time. My own teen suggested this title to me and thinks this should be on the GCSE English syllabus because of the engaging story and the author's insight into boy's lives and minds.
SAVE THE VILLAGE POST OFFICE
CAMPAIGN PLAN B BY
LIZZIE MICKERY
Felpham residents filled St Mary’s Centre on August 13 to hear the news and give their support. Thank you! Here is some context and the resulting developments.
We were ready to apply for the Government Levelling Up grant when the previous government announced the election. The incoming government subsequently ended levelling up grants. The Directors went back to basics – our purpose? TO SAVE OUR POST OFFICE.
Extraordinary news! An anonymous donor provided the funds to purchase the Post Office and shop business but not the building. Simultaneously, the Corals property on Grassmere Parade (pictured) became available to lease. We negotiated very favourable terms.
Mark, the vendor, approved the Post Office and shop deal, and we are currently negotiating the takeover with the Post Office, which may take 6-9 months. Don’t worry, the Village Post Office and shop will continue as it is, until then. The wonderful staff will come with us.
The space is airy, can house two post office counters, a banking hub, enlarged shop and remains in the heart of the village with nearby parking and disabled access.
Contributions already made and donations moving forward, remain vital, enabling us to transform the space, transfer the business and finance the PO and shop until it is up and running. Anyone who has donated or is donating £100 or more is entitled to one share. If you wish to top up an original donation to £100 that would be much appreciated. You can choose whether your money is a donation or an interest free loan. In due course we hope to be able to begin to repay loans on a pro rata basis. If you wish your donation to be a loan please inform us ASAP, details at the end of the article.
We, also, need your skills! Builders, electricians, decorators, professional or amateur, whatever you can contribute we’d be so grateful. Plus, your ideas!! What would you like in the shop?
Our email address is info@friendsoffelpham.org. Text Mike on 07788846919 or leave written suggestions, questions or donation instructions with your name and address at the PO. We will be updating our website on a regular basis visit friendsoffelpham.org
Our patron, Bill Nighy sent us a succinct but very pertinent message. “Fabulous News. Well flaming done, everyone!!”
Save Felpham Village Post Office Campaign, not IF but WHEN. Thank you, everyone.
This will be the new site (Corals) for Felpham Village Post Office.
HR IN FOCUS BY
TANYA SMITH AND GEMMA GUINEY
INTERVIEW SKILLS WITH THE HR HOUSE
If you are preparing for an interview or hope to be invited to one soon, our top tips might help you along the way.
Research the company. ‘What do you know about the company?’ is often asked at an interview and if it is, please ensure you’re able to answer this question. Knowing a few things about the company (i.e. what they do, how long they’ve been in business for etc.) will show that you’re interested and well prepared. Look through the company’s website or social media to find out.
Think about the questions you might be asked and have answers and examples ready to draw upon. Competency based interviews are very popular with interviewers because they ask the candidate to describe previous experiences they’ve had to help illustrate whether they have the relevant skills required for the role or not. To help you know what questions might be asked, use the job advert as your guide. If certain things are listed as ‘Essential Requirements’ it is very likely that the questions asked will be about these things.
An internet search for ‘popular interview questions’ can also help you to prepare for the types of questions you might be asked. Practice your responses and think of those relevant examples.
Come ready prepared. Before you attend an interview ask if there is anything you need to prepare for it. If the interview process hasn’t been explained up until this point, it is likely that it will be now. The more you know about what’s going to happen at the interview the more time you have beforehand to get yourself prepped and ready.
First Impressions. Sounds obvious, but we would say No.1 for giving a great first impression is - Be on time. No.2, dress appropriately for the role that you are applying for. If the role is office-based, we would recommend smart office wear. If it’s a café or shop, smart casual may be more appropriate. No.3, Body language – good posture, eye contact and a professional greeting are all important to remember.
Have your questions ready. Interviewers will often ask ‘Have you got any questions?’ at the end of an interview. If you want to shine here, really think about a question that you’re interested in knowing the answer to. Is there anything about the company that you’d like to know more about? We would also recommend that you ask about the next steps and timings for this process. When will you hear back after the interview?
Avoid being negative about your previous employer, as it never sounds professional at an interview. If you left on less than favourable terms think about how you can discuss this without being derogatory. And finally … Remember all good things take practice. If you haven’t been successful at this interview brush yourself off and start to get yourself ready for your next. We would recommend seeking feedback from the interviewer to help understand what areas specifically you may need to improve on. Good luck!!
For further information, HR queries or to send in aquestion visit: https://www.thehrhouseconsultancy.co.uk or email: enquiries@thehrhouseconsultancy.co.uk
Gemma Guiney and Tanya Smith.
FIVE GOOD REASONS TO ...
LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE BY
SARAH DAVEY
College evening classes start up again this month. Take the plunge and learn a new language. Here are five good reasons to enrol right now.
• Make new friends – Languages require practise! It’s easier to talk to new people if you’re both concentrating on something other than how shy you are. Chatting in a foreign language is a good way to break the ice and get to know your classmates.
• Improve your English – Learning a new language helps us understand tenses, prepositions, and all the other parts of speech we normally take for granted. As a result, we speak and write more precisely. Many great writers were/are polyglots!
• Enrich your travel experiences – Connecting with the locals is the best way to get the most out of travelling. People are more welcoming if you make an effort to speak their language. It can turn an ordinary trip into the holiday of a lifetime.
• Join the global community – Most of the rest of the world does not speak English! As the world becomes smaller and more interconnected it’s easy to see that we’ll come into contact with more and more non-English speakers. A foreign language puts you at an advantage in business and personal relationships.
• Sense of accomplishment – Wouldn’t it be cool to tell people that you speak two or more languages? Not many people in this country can, so if you can pull it off you have a reason to be really proud of yourself.
TIRED ALL THE TIME? BY LOUISE ADDISON
Do you spring out of bed at 7am, ready to face the day? Or do you wake up feeling tired and drained?
• GPs are reporting that more and more patients complain of having no energy. So much so, that the syndrome has its own acronym – TATT, or ‘tired all the time.’
• TATT is common, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.
• There are many different causes of fatigue, and it’s always a good idea to start by speaking to your GP or practice nurse.
• Overwhelming exhaustion, which gets worse with activity and does not improve with rest, might be an indicator of myalgic encephalopathy (ME) or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). A cure has not yet been found, but there are treatments and self-help measures that can ease the symptoms.
• A GP can also rule out conditions such as anaemia, thyroid problems, food intolerances or diabetes.
• Many cases of TATT are due to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Traumatic life events, stress and money worries can also cause fatigue. In this case talking therapy can help and your doctor might refer you for counselling.
In the meantime, there are lifestyle changes which can help.
• Sleep – Make sure you are getting enough good quality sleep. Try to keep to the same earlier bedtime for a few weeks and see if this helps. Sometimes an eye mask and or earplugs are all that’s needed to improve sleep quality.
• Diet – Try eating small healthy snacks throughout the day, rather than one large meal in the evening. Reduce alcohol and caffeine, and drink more water.
• Finally, you may not feel like it, but exercising is another proven way to fight fatigue. Even a quick 15-minute walk around the block will give you an energy boost.
THE POWER OF DEADHEADING
BY RACHEL LEVERTON
Deadheading is quite simply, the removal of dead flower heads from a plant. It's one of the most important August jobs in the garden.
Faded, browning flowers can spoil the appearance of beds, borders and containers, especially in small gardens where each individual plant has more of a starring role. Deadheading helps keep displays looking lovelier for longer.
In addition:
• Plants put more of their energy into stronger growth and more flower production, instead of producing seeds (obviously leave the flowerheads untouched if you WANT seeds).
• It prevents plants from self-seeding. Some plants that self-seed readily can become a nuisance, such as sea holly (Eryngium) and lady's mantle (Alchemilla mollis).
• It prevents petals scattering everywhere.
Deadheading is best carried out as soon as the blooms begin to look scruffy. For some plants, such as summer bedding, this might be a daily task, whereas for others it can be carried out weekly. Some plants, like lilacs might only need deadheading once, after a brief blooming period. I don't worry about timing too much. I usually take off fading flowers as I'm pottering about in the garden of an evening.
The simplest method is to pinch or snap off the spent blooms with a finger and thumb, aiming to remove the flower with its stalk, to keep the plant looking tidy. For plants with tough or stringy stems, you use secateurs, scissors or even a knife. On most plants, trim the dead flower just above the next bud or leaf on the stem.
Plants like delphiniums and lupins produce heads of multiple flowers. In this case pinch off individual flowers and then eventually, when all the flowers have died, prune the entire head to just above a lower bud, leaf or side shoot. Some plants, like hardy geraniums, cat mint (Nepeta) and lady's mantle (Alchemilla), will produce a second flush of flowers if you cut them back close to ground level after flowering.
Not all plants need to be deadheaded. Fuchsias, obligingly and neatly, deadhead themselves saving you the trouble. Others don't set much seed in the first place (e.g. bedding lobelias).
Some plants, such as Deutzia and Spiraea produce so many flowers that deadheading becomes impractical, and some are simply too tall to reach!
I never deadhead rudbeckias, cornflowers, sunflowers, viburnums, Amelanchier and rambling roses because the birds love to eat the seeds, berries and hips they produce.
And finally, the other plants that don't require deadheading are probably my favourites, those which have ornamental seedhead as attractive as their flowers, such as love-in-a-mist (Nigella) and Chinese lantern plants (Physalis alkekengi).
If you're looking for a super simple way to increase the flowering potential of your garden this summer, try a spot of deadheading.
Happy gardening,
BLAKE’S COTTAGE BY DOUG
NICHOLLS
It’s happening at long last, a new Board of Trustees and new Ambassadors are working together tirelessly to protect, restore then open to the public Blake’s wonderful cottage in Felpham that has been so sadly neglected in recent years. We want to do this by the bicentenary of his death in 2027. Please help us by attending our public meeting:
Public Meeting Blake’s Cottage – A New Future 19 September 2024, 6pm-7.30pm Blake Building, Felpham Community College
Come and meet the new Trust Board, discuss our current plans and help shape the future with your ideas. We want to keep you informed of the exciting new developments which offer real potential for the local community. It would assist in planning if you are able to send a quick email confirming your attendance and asking any questions in advance to chairperson@blakecottage.co.uk
Blake’s cottage is not just an important Felpham landmark it is of global significance. William Blake is without doubt one of the Uk’s most influential and internationally recognised poets, artists and printers. Millions know of the other literary Williams, – Wordsworth, Morris, Langland and so on, but Blake shapes lives, sets out ideas that penetrate deeply into people and says powerful things of relevance still.
Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden is our new Patron and one of tens of thousands of artists, musicians, writers and singers who love the works of Blake. Blake’s works appeal to a really wide audience not just a select few.
Blake’s great poem Jerusalem, our unofficial national anthem, was composed in this cottage and is still sung by the Women’s Institute and of course at the Proms, where also this year there will be a musical version of Blake’s great poem the Auguries of Innocence.
A small book by Blake was sold recently for $4.3 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. Yet unlike other great cultural figures, Blake has no preserved place of residence open to the world. We are determined that this will change.
You will see that we have moved to protect the cottage. That’s step one. We will then replace the roof and rafters, then restore the whole building and with your assistance and ideas and involvement, we will create a Blake centre to inspire future generations, create learning and engagement opportunities in arts, poetry, printing and history.
A successful redevelopment of Blake’s cottage will bring economic growth, cultural interest, education and new artistic creativity to our wonderful part of the world. Join us at the meeting and visit our website to sign up to our newsletter www.Blakecottage.org.
Blake’s Cottage.
•
• Say “goodbye” to gaps and dentures •
Please mention FELPHAM IN FOCUS when responding to adverts
Clubs, Classes and Events
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.
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Have you got one? If not, don’t wait until you need one!
A lot of my clients when I ask them if they have a Power of Attorney will reply by saying ‘no’, they don’t need one and that they are too young to think about putting such a document in place at the moment. I will then usually go on to politely explain that they’ve kind of missed the whole point of the document.
Age has nothing to do with whether you should protect yourself by putting in place a Lasting Power of Attorney. No matter how old you are, it is important to think about what you would want to happen should you become incapacitated (either temporarily or permanently) due to illness, accident or an impairment. Wouldn’t it be better if you decided (rather than the Court) who you would want to deal with your finances and/or business interests and who you would want to make health and welfare decision on your behalf if you are unable to express a view.
A Lasting Power of Attorney has to be given to a third party by you, rather than taken out by them for you.
If you have made a Will then that goes some way to getting your affairs in order and making things easier for your loved ones but the Executors appointed in your Will only have the power to deal with things when you have passed away. They don’t have any legal authority whilst you are still alive, but incapacitated. You need Attorneys under a Lasting Power of Attorney document to look after your needs in such circumstances.
Call the office for a no obligation appointment to find out more details. Don’t forget I can also help you with:
Wills and Trusts - Inheritance Tax - Care Fees Planning Probate - Administration of Estates
Helen Gagan Solicitor … listening to her clients
Please feel free to telephone Helen’s office if you wish to discuss any of the above matters or to arrange an appointment.
Helen Gagan Solicitor … listening to her clients
Felpham Chambers, 60 Felpham Road, Felpham, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, PO22 7NZ
Office telephone number: 01243 867330 Mobile: 07584 991081
Email: helen@helengagansolicitor.co.uk www.helengagansolicitor.co.uk
MISSING WOMEN
BY MARGARET TURNER
Have you ever wondered, as you walk through our local city, why there are statues of bishops and admirals, even the odd poet, but no women? The newly formed Chichester Women’s History Group has been asking the same question.
After all, there have been plenty of remarkable women in the Sussex area such as Elizabeth Ilive, wife of Lord Egremont at Petworth House who was the first woman to be awarded a prestigious silver medal by RSA in 1796 for her invention of a lifting device to help the labourers on the Petworth Estate. Sadly, Lord Egremont forbade her to publish her research under her own name or to receive her medal in person.
Other redoubtable women in our area range from Chichester suffragist and artist, Madge Turner, a 17th century Quaker prisoner of conscience, Margery Wilkinson, and Bognor bathing attendant Mary Wheatland, renowned not only for life saving but also for her ability to stand on her head in the water waving her legs in the air at the age of 71!
The newly formed Chichester Women’s History Group aims to raise awareness of the achievements of these and other notable local women, past and present, in West Sussex and to tell their stories in a variety of forms. These include a fundraising project to support the installation of a statue of Madge Turner. Chichester-born Madge was the Secretary of the Women’s Freedom League. An ardent campaigner for votes for women, she was imprisoned and harshly treated in Holloway Gaol because of her beliefs. Local sculptor, Kate Viner, has designed a maquette (see right) in preparation for a full-scale statue in tribute to this fearless campaigner.
Some of the Group’s other projects feature a plan to put up further blue plaques as reminders of notable local women; a future exhibition commemorating Chichester women, to be held at the Novium Museum in Chichester and possibly a book/film based on the group's research into women’s history. That’s not forgetting the other important aim of the group which is “to have a good time and lots of cake.”
If you would like to find out more, why not come along on Wednesday, 4 September to our first public meeting, a talk by acclaimed local author, Kate Mosse: Putting Women Back Into History One Statue at a Time and share in the search for the Missing Women of History.
To book tickets and for information, please contact Francesca Tambling francescatambling@live.co.uk
Design for proposed statue of Madge Turner by local sculptor, Kate Viner.
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.
To contact FELPHAM IN FOCUS please email: office@infocusmagazines.co.uk
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Please
L&G Aldwick
PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS
Patios, Driveways, Block Paving, Landscaping & Fencing
At L&G Aldwick we can help you realise the Patio or Driveway of your dreams.
We are proud to be a Marshalls Approved & Vetted Installer, and we supply the UK’s most comprehensive range of driveway and paving products from Marshall’s.
From the first design through to the final installation, we can advise you on all aspects of hard landscaping. We pride ourselves on our innovative designs and consistently high standard of workmanship. Our experienced team also specialise in fencing and walling of all types.
Contact us now to arrange a free quotation - you might be surprised at how competitive we are! At L&G Aldwick we have a free Quotation and Consultation service. Find out for yourself why we are the preferred choice for the discerning customer for design and installation.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Solution to Mindbenders
1. No spring chicken.
2. Backslide.
3. Long John Silver.
