Villages In Focus December 2020 January 2021

The independent local directory of businesses serving Middleton, Elmer, Yapton & Barnham

Delivered FREE to over 5,500 homes

December 2020 January 2021

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

2

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

3

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

4

Hello again, here we are with the final magazine of 2020. What a strange year this has been, so hard for many people. At the time of writing there is a lot of talk about vaccines against Covid 19 becoming available soon. Let us hope this will bring a return to a more normal way of life in 2021. It has been wonderful to see how the local community has responded to the situation and has rallied round to help where they can in so many ways.

Whilst we are still unable to hold many of the Christmas events that would usually take place at this time of year there are still some plans where possible. Santa’s sleigh, supported by the Rotary Club will be out & about - see page 30 & their website for full information.

We have an uplifting article from the RSPB on page 26 reminding us to take a minute to look at the beauty of the natural world around us.

Local songwriter Karen Elias has recorded a song called “A Hero’s Xmas” & is donating all monies to the Royal British Legion. You can download it from itunes or Amazon.

The next magazine will be the February 2021 issue with a deadline of 7th January.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas & a happy & healthy New Year. Stay safe.

Many thanks to local resident Best wishes Judy Hewlett for this month’s lovely

Sarah

Email: infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

cover photo of Arundel Castle.

www.infocusmagazines.co.uk Mobile: 07729 682 245 In Focus Magazines, c/o Newman Thomson Printers, 1 Jubilee Road, RH15 9TL

All advertisements are printed in good faith, however Villages in Focus cannot take responsibility for the content of the adverts or the services provided by the advertisers. Opinions & views expressed in articles are not necessarily held by In Focus Magazines.

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

5

Scruffs Dog Grooming based in Felpham

All grooming requirements catered for and tailored to suit your needs in a safe and clean environment.

1‐2‐1 personal relaxed service (no rushed appointments) Pet First Aid trained & fully insured 7 point health check * Full grooms * Puppy trims * Bath & Blow dry * De‐shed Nail Clipping * Teeth cleaning packages (Emmi‐pet ultrasonic dental care)

Evening and weekend appointments available. Feel free to get in touch to chat about your needs and/or to arrange a no obligation visit.

Scott Turner 07857 699507 / scottturner200@gmail.com

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

6

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! …. that felt strange, I was sat writing this in my office back in October. What has this pandemic taught us? It is hard to say, so, what can we do? Well, take control of what we can, do not put off until tomorrow what we can do today. Over this unknown time, we have conducted a lot of Will reviews. How?

1. Office Meeting Room ‐ We can provide safe socially distanced meetings. We have Perspex screens in place both at the front of the office upon entry and in our meeting rooms.

2. Home Visits ‐ We offer home visits (when weather permits) to sit in your garden or talk through windows.

3. Zoom/Skype/Facetime – We can meet up virtually for an informal Chat

These are just a few of the methods we now have in place to keep our clients and staff safe. We want you to feel comfortable with us as your choice of Solicitors. During this pandemic we have seen an increase in enquiries around Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, so why are they important?

The benefits of making a will Though people often avoid thinking about death – particularly in their youth. There are several reasons why making a will should become a priority, regardless of age…

1. To ease the strain on loved ones ‐ Having a will in place can make it easier and less stressful for family and friends during an upsetting time.

2. To maximise your assets ‐ A well‐considered will can help reduce the amount of tax due on savings, investments, and property.

3. To communicate additional wishes

How to go about it A will can be as simple or as complex as you wish. Start by identifying the assets you plan to leave and to whom you plan to leave them. A will protects your interests after death, but it is important to ensure your wealth and welfare are protected while you are still alive. If you lose capacity to manage your own financial matters or make medical decisions yourself, it is advisable to have a trusted friend or family member to deal with these matters on your behalf. Many people believe the power of attorney is automatically granted to a partner or close family member when they lose capacity, but this is not the case.

The Office of Public Guardian (OPG) launched a campaign last year – Your Voice, Your Decision – to draw attention to the importance of arranging a Lasting Power of Attorney. The OPG’s research sampled 25000 people across England and Wales. It found that 73% of people believe if a couple have a joint bank account and one account holder can’t make decisions for themselves, their partner can legally make decisions on behalf of both of them. In addition, 72% of people believe their next of kin would automatically get final say in treatment decisions if they were unable to make those choices themselves. Neither of these are the case.

Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) involves appointing a representative (or more than one) who can be trusted to make decisions with your best interests in mind should you lose the capacity to do so.

It is time to stop putting it off. Creating a will and arranging an LPA are two of the most important ways to help safeguard your future and that of your loved ones. To discuss the options please do not hesitate to get in touch on 01243 945054 or email mark@mjrsolicitors.co.uk To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

7

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

8

How the robin came to symbolise Christmas illustrations, sometimes delivering the letters. Middle class Victorians loved all things sentimental and charming, so the trend caught on and continues to this day, with the robin adorning everything from wrapping paper to Christmas jumpers.

Think of winter in the garden and you'll most likely think of a robin. Think of Christmas cards and you'll probably think of the same.

Why do robins have such a strong association with winter?

There is actually an increase in robin numbers during the winter months. They migrate from Scandinavia, Russia and Europe swelling the ranks of our resident robins when the days become too cold and food becomes scarce in their own countries.

There are several legends relating robins to winter and Christmas in particular.

The first legend hails from Victorian times, when the tradition of sending Christmas cards started. Royal Mail postmen of the time wore bright red uniforms, which earned them the nickname of ‘robin’ or ‘redbreast’. Victorian artists usually illustrated Christmas cards with pictures relating to the delivery of letters, such as post-boxes and postmen. Eventually artists began to play on this word association and postman 'robin' was exchanged for the familiar little brown and red bird, who began to appear in

Even before the Victorian era, robins had a strong association with the traditional Christmas story and Christianity. In one tale, it is said that when Mary was giving birth to baby Jesus in the stable, she noticed the fire Joseph had lit was in danger of going out. Suddenly, a small brown bird appeared and started flapping its wings in front of the fire, fanning the embers, and causing it to roar back to life.

As the bird flew around tending to the fire, a stray ember made its way towards the tiny creature, scorching its breast bright red. Mary declared that the red breast was a sign of the bird’s kind heart, which would be passed on to its descendants to wear proudly ever after.

There are also Celtic-based tales which link the robin with wintertime. One tells of the feud between the wren, known as the Holly King of Winter, and the robin who was known as the Oak King of Summer.

The Holly King was driven away by the Oak King on the Winter Solstice, and the robin took his rightful place. However, on the Summer Solstice, the Holly King gets to take his revenge, and the wren replaces the robin. This story repeats every year and represents the changing of the seasons. It was probably told by way of explaining why we see more robins during the winter months.

Whatever the truth, the robin is a beautiful cheery symbol of this time of year, and if you can spare a little food, particularly meal worms, and some water, he will reward you by visiting your garden daily.

Happy Christmas.

By Tracey Anderson

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

9

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

10

How on Earth can we celebrate in the midst of all this?

It's been a weird old year. We'd all be forgiven for feeling more flat than festive.

What we need are some simple ways to find fun in the time of COVID. The pandemic will mean Christmas won’t look like it usually does, but with a bit of thought and creativity it's still possible to celebrate even if we have to spend Christmas away from friends and family:

Start a new tradition - How about a Secret Santa gift exchange outside round a firepit with toasted marshmallows? Or outdoor games on the decking with blankets and hot chocolate? There might be an outdoor cinema near you showing Christmas films.

Go with friends, take blankets and flasks, and have a socially distanced outdoor film night!

Prioritize - Which traditions matter most to you? Which are easiest to maintain?

Spread some joy - If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s how much the people in our lives actually mean to us, so spread happiness where you can. Write down how much the people you love mean to you and send it out to them. Make Christmas cookies and leave some with your friends and neighbours. Drop off some treats at a local nursing home, hospital, or fire department to brighten the lives of the people there.

You can still set up the Christmas decorations, make special foods and watch your favourite films. Pantomimes and trips to the ballet are not possible though so use the family time to set up a games evening with prizes and lots of shouting. You can play charades with friends and family either outside or via video link. My kids love Nintendo Just Dance, and find it hilarious when my husband and I join in. Kids mostly want you...in silly festive mode. So put your phone away, just like you would at the theatre, and get stuck in.

Decorate a tree outside - This is the year to deck out your decking, and pretty your patio. Adorn an outdoor tree with LED lights and shatterproof ornaments. Use twist ties or florist’s wire to secure the ornaments so they stay put even in the wind. Then invite a few friends round for a socially distanced switch on, complete with mulled wine.

Different can be special - You probably don't remember exactly what happens at Christmas from year to year, but when something out of the ordinary occurs, it sticks in your memory...Christmas disasters often make the best dinner party stories in the years that follow. 2020 has the capacity to give us all enough stories for decades!

Make memories - Create an advent calendar with festive activities for each day. The activities don’t have to be elaborate; it could just be drinking hot chocolates with marshmallows together, wearing Santa hats, or watching Elf, or taking silly festive photos

By Kate McCarthy To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

11

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

12

Moreish festive goodies – great for gifts Preparation time: 20 minutes plus resting time.

Cooking time: 10-20 mins Makes about 24+ Ingredients 100g cold unsalted butter, cut into chunks 100g plain flour, plus extra for flouring pinch salt pinch cayenne pepper 1 heaped tsp mustard powder 50g finely grated mature cheddar 50g finely grated parmesan, or similar vegetarian hard cheese, plus a little extra 1 egg, beaten Method Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

Place the butter and flour into a bowl of a food processor with the salt, cayenne, mustard

powder, and cheeses. Rub the fat into the flour mixture then gradually bring the mixture together to form a dough. Don't add egg or water.

Wrap the dough in cling film and leave to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Lightly flour a work surface and gently roll out the pastry to about 1cm thick. Cut out the biscuits using festive cutters. Lay them out on a greased baking tray about 2cm apart. You might need two trays.

Brush the surface of each biscuit with the beaten egg and sprinkle over a little finely grated parmesan. Bake for 10 minutes, or until they are golden-brown. They smell heavenly!

Remove from the oven and carefully lift the biscuits off the tray using a palette knife, then place on a rack to cool. They make lovely gifts and will keep well in a sealed container for a few days.

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

13

Dance Ed Children’s Street Dance term time Every Tuesday and Thursday YAPTON VILLAGE HALL £5.00 Tuesday 4.15 - 5.00pm all ages Thursday 4 - 8 years 4 - 4.45pm Thursday 8 - 12 years 5 - 5.45pm Performance opportunities Certificates, Showcases Contact Sami to book or enquire samanthaamy1@aol.com 07590 316408 Find me on Facebook DanceEd Children’s Street Dance Fully Qualified and full DBS Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

14

December 2020 Update from the Arun Prevention Team You can contact your local team in the following ways: Call us: on 101 to report a crime or 999 if it’s an emergency Email us: arun@sussex.pnn.police.uk Operation Signatureis the force campaign to identify and support vulnerable victims of fraud.

Increasingly fraud is becoming more complex & deceptive, much of it is targeted at the vulnerable & elderly.

Did you know? One in 5people fall victim to fraud every year. Nearly 50 % of all adults have been targeted. Technology enables fraudsters to carry out attacks quicker and employ more complex behaviours to remain undetected.

Go to:‐ https://www.sussex.police.uk/advice/advice‐and‐information/fa/fraud/personal‐fraud/ to see information and advice on different types of fraud. For specific Romance fraud information please visit this page:‐ https://www.sussex.police.uk/police‐forces/sussex‐police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/romance‐ fraud/ You can also go to the Action Fraud website for more information and to report fraud. https:// www.actionfraud.police.uk/ Key things to remember Never send or give money to anyone you don't know or trust. Check people are who they say they are.

Don't share your personal information. Make decisions in your own time. If in doubt phone a relative or a friend. Trust no‐one who cold calls you about your bank account or a problem with your computer.

Under no circumstances would the bank or police: request a card PIN or security details over the telephone, or arrange collection of bank cards from a home address Scams are fraud and fraud is crime – report it to us by calling 101 or online:‐ https://www.sussex.police.uk/ ro/report/ocr/af/how‐to‐report‐a‐crime/ In an emergency always call 999.

For further advice and information please operation.signature@sussex.pnn.police.uk Front office opening hours Bognor Regis: London Road, P021 1BA Mon to Fri 10am ‐ 2pm 3pm ‐ 6pm.

Littlehampton: County Buildings, East Street, BN17 6AR Mon to Fri 10am ‐ 2pm 3pm ‐ 6pm Arun West Neighbourhood Watch Drew Millar on mobile 07484 861710 or email andrew.millar.m@btinternet.com To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

15

01243 952400 Unit F, William Booker Yard, The Street, Walberton, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0PF.

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

16

This month - Hardworking ivy The Holly and the Ivy, When they are both full grown, Of all the trees that are in the wood, The Holly bears the crown.

Holly is much coveted festive greenery but what about ivy, or Hedera to give it the botanical name?

It makes up the trio of festive plants, the other being mistletoe, and frankly it's usually seen as a bit of a poor relation, misunderstood and mostly unloved.

Yet ivy is a great workhorse in the garden. It’s evergreen, it attracts wildlife and is excellent on those north -facing walls and fences where nothing else seems to grow. It's not just a dark green cloak either; there are many cultivars with different leaf shapes and variegated foliage. The variegated varieties are great in those areas that catch just a little sunlight during part of the day as they suddenly seem to illuminate a usually dull spot.

Ivy is great for disguising an ugly wall, a bare fence, or an old tree stump. It’s a reliable and self-clinging climber if you choose the right variety and remember to prune it correctly. The young climbing stems are slender and flexible with small aerial roots that fix the shoot to a surface. Adult stems are thicker, self-supporting and do not have roots. Unlike mistletoe ivy isn't parasitic so won't harm trees but be careful about letting it grow on the walls of your house as it will damage weak mortar and pebbledash. If growing on a property it needs to be clipped back in spring and summer, so it doesn't do any damage to

structure underneath. Don't let it get into gutters because it will clog them then infiltrate under tiles or slates.

Ivy is excellent ground cover. It will scramble over areas of poor soil and brighten the ground between shrubs during the dark winter months.

Persian ivy, Hedera colchica ‘Dentata Variegata’, is lovely because of its large, yellow-edged leaves. Hedera canariensis ‘Gloire de Marengo’ is also good. Its red stems and large leaves with splashes of yellow looks rather splendid. If you need an area covered quickly try Hedera Hibernica, which is a vigorous native ivy.

Hedera helix is the other native ivy and this one has numerous cultivars including Goldheart, which has yellow -centred leaves, Green Ripple, with frilly edged leaves and ‘Buttercup’ which is bright yellow.

If you love to support the wildlife in your garden, then ivy is a terrific plant.

During autumn and early winter adult ivies produce small greenish-yellow flowers. These are especially rich in nectar so attract bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other insects, providing them with a place to overwinter. Birds like thrushes, blackbirds and robins enjoy the purple black berries which ripen from late winter to mid-spring, providing a much-needed winter food source.

I hope I've made a good case for growing ivy in your garden. Holly might bear the crown, but I reckon ivy deserves a tiara at the very least!

Happy gardening Christmas.

and

Merry

By Rachael Leverton

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

17

WE

ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

18

Local History © S. Endacott

As 2020 draws to a close let us look forward to 2021, to events, activities and visits so missing from 2020. We will fondly remember the pub that closed, the shops that closed but we will also hopeful‐ ly record the new shops, businesses etc that arrive on our scene. We can look forward to village fete’s, beach runs, festivals, and the meetings with groups of friends.After the austerity of the War years, from the 1950’s the town received thousands of its visitors who would send home the obliga‐ tory postcard telling of their enjoyment showing pictures of busy beach scenes often saying “Wish you were here.” to those at home. As we moved through the 20th century, holiday styles changed considerably. Holidays progressed from the two weeks at home; to holiday’s abroad with the advent of cheaper flights.

Initially when the promenade was built it was just that, to be seen and to see who else was on holiday. The prome‐ nade was considered sufficient entertainment. Now this area is utilised for entertainment purposes, trampolines, rides etc., to encourage children and their parents to stay, enjoy the beach and other features.

Throughout time and all the changes some things have remained constant that of the beach and climate. We still hold our high position in the annual “Sunshine League.” Take care and I will see you in 2021.I feature local history of today but foresee quite different articles in the future with aspects of our lives scrutinized like never before.

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

19

This month’s advert is just to show we are s ll here and standing strong ‐ even with all that 2020 has thrown at us. We truly believe and know that this is down to the local people of this community s cking together and suppor ng local businesses.

This month we simply want to show you before and a er pictures along with recent months’ feedback through Checkatrade .

We hope that moving into 2021 things get be er for everyone, especially those whose businesses or jobs have suffered.

Here at Garage Door services, we look forward to hearing from you, for all your Garage door needs, whether it be a simple repair, automa ng your exis ng door or a full replacement. Best wishes and Thank you .

A er

Before Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a free estimate with Ben who can offer help and advice with years of installation experience.

Instagram garage_door_services_ Facebook Garage Door Services 07985 619952 or 01243 262431

“Great service from start to finish. Very professional. Would highly recommend GDS.” “All round perfect. Perfectly matched colour & no mess” “Ben has done a marvellous job of replacing our old garage door. Polite & punctual. A top quality product at a fair price“

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

20

5 8

1

8 7 5

6

Merry Christmas from Rainbow Hair & Beauty 19 Felpham Road

Salon 01243 826058 Mobile 07749 755692

3 9 5 2 3

8 4

2 9 5 2 4

6 8 2

9

2 9 1

7

7 6

How to play Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

21

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

22

Dr Davina Mahoney Dr John Harker Dr Mauricio Carrillo Dr Sharad Patel

If you have moved to this area, or are looking for a new dentist, we would love for you to come and join our friendly Bognor Regis practice. We pride ourselves on a partnership built on trust and mutual respect to improve your dental health. We aim to work with you to provide optimum dental care with the latest and advanced dental treatments, transparent costs and a friendly experience every time you visit us.

Felpham Dental Implant Clinic

 Free initial consultation  Latest implant technology including on‐site 3D CBCT scanner  No more gaps or dentures  Eat, chew and smile with complete confidence  We accept referrals from other dental practices for complex single and multiple dental implants

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

23

At Felpham Dental we offer a full range of cost‐effective treatments for both general and cosmetic dentistry. These include whitening, veneers, crowns, white fillings, dental implants, root canal treatments and facial aesthetics including intradermal wrinkle treatments.

We accept referrals for complex root canal treatments with Dr John Harker, and oral surgery referrals including facial pain and migraine, with Dr Mauricio Carrillo.

Invisalign Teeth Straightening

 Free initial consultation  Almost invisible teeth straightening  Faster straightening of teeth

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

Emergency Dental Care Please call 01243 864663 and speak with Chrissie or Tracey.

Contact us: Tel: 01243 864663 Felpham Dental felphamdental@aol.com 83 Felpham Road www.felphamdental.com Bognor Regis.PO22 7PF (Opposite Milestones Garage)

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

24

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

25

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

26

Out of the gloom‌ At the beginning of November I had to pop down to Church Norton before going home. The sun had already set, dusk was giving way to night, but there was just enough light to make out where I was walking. It was still, not a breath of wind. The smell of autumn rose from the damp decaying leaves, soft under my feet. Nearing the harbours edge the gentle babbling of brent geese greeted me. Redshank piped, interspersed every so often by the curlews evocative, haunting call, the embodiment of wild open places. Transfixed and unable to help myself, I stood alone in the gloom soaking up the moment. It was beautiful. A simple interval in time that was so much more.

Sometimes it is these moments that ground us, help us to forget the stresses in our lives, clear our minds and leaves us feeling good. This year has been a challenging year in itself and now for many, we are in the season of melancholy, but winter doesn’t have to be like that at all. Get outside and take a moment to reconnect with what we take for granted. As well as the babbling geese, our reserves of Pagham Harbour and Medmerry are full of overwintering wildfowl and waders at this time of year, of all shapes, colours and sizes. We often hear of spectacular starling murmurations, but many waders fly in flocks as well, and like the starlings, the shifting patterns they create as they twist and turn are delightfully mesmerising.

Sometimes I have to motivate myself to take a walk along the beach on a winters day, but there is something reassuring about the sound of shingle beneath the feet while breathing in the salt air as it pinches at the face. Along the strandline you have a good chance of encountering turnstones busily doing exactly what their name suggests as they search for food underneath. They can be quite confiding.

At first glance, like many wading birds, they can appear quite dull to look at, but if you are patient and get a good view of their individual feathers, their plumage is quite striking. I always come back from the shoreline invigorated and grateful that I made the effort.

Turnstones - Ivan Lang As you walk, take a glance around at the trees. They may look lifeless, but look again, much closer. You will find buds forming at the tips of their branches. Catkins, although still tightly shut, are appearing, hinting at a promise of the next season. The natural world around us is amazing and can lift the spirits whatever the weather or season. We just need to make time to appreciate it.

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

27

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

28

Bognor Regis Tide Table December 2020 Time Zone GMT

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

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

29

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

30

Christmas Float Update Father Christmas and his Christmas Float helped by the Rotary Club of Bognor Hotham have visited the streets of Bognor Regis during December playing seasonal music and collecting for those in need locally for over 30 years.

Over ÂŁ10,000 has been collected annually and used to help those disadvantaged.

Covid-19 has been difficult for so many people and current regulations severely limit Rotary Christmas Float activities.

Although we cannot tour and collect with buckets in the traditional ways we are determined to bring as much normality and fun to Christmas as possible.

Current plans include: Non-Stop drivebys by Father Christmas and his Sleigh playing seasonal music on selected street Routes.

Static displays of Father Christmas and his Sleigh at selected locations such as local supermarkets.

The float be not be permitted to stop (or turn in cul de sacs) or make bucket collections.

As we cannot make these bucket collections, on-line facilities for donations are available.

Current Float plans and locations, as well as the means to make a donation are shown on the Rotary Club of Bognor Hotham Facebook and Website pages We are immensely proud of the help you have given in the past, those in need are immensely grateful for your generosity.

Website: www.bognorhotham.rotaryweb.org Facebook: Bognor Hotham Rotary Club - Bognor Hotham Christmas Float

Merry Christmas to all The Rotary Club of Bognor Hotham.

Registered Charity No. 1039210

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

31

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

32

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

33

Turning your room thermostat down by JUST 1 DEGREE, can save up to 10% on your hea ng bills Plus VAT

Now offering 10 year warran es on Vaillant boilers Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

34

Secrets of Kingley Vale Beneath many parts of the South Downs National Park lies a secret landscape revealing the lives of people who resided, visited and worked on the hills. This months featured trek explores the National Nature Reserve of Kingley Vale, which not only is one of Englands most important archaeological sites containing 14 scheduled monuments but also has a unique ancient Yew forest.

This moderate 9km (5.5 miles) trek starts at the West Stoke car park and follows a nature trail route around the reserve. From the car park take the well trodden path passing between arable fields for about 1km where a gate and wooden sculpture marks the start of the special area of conservation that is Kingley Vale. The nature trail starts by gently ascending through the centre of the Vale, where in the late 1800’s through to WW2 the enclosed hills were used as a military firing range. Evidence of this can be seen by the shrapnel marks in some trees and craters on the ground. In 1990 a clearance of the site removed over 6000 munitions of varying types.

Keeping to the eastern edge of the reserve the path passes through some of the oldest, gnarled and twisted trees, a short way on and the ascent becomes steeper leading you through more ancient Yew woods on the side of the Vale up to Bow Hill. The tangled grove of trees are amongst the oldest living things in Britain, several are at least 500 years old with some claiming to be between 900 & 2000 years old, the oldest of the Yew trees measure more than 5 metres in girth. Very little daylight filters through the entwined branches which gives an eerie feel as you walk amongst them, the ground is very bare and carpeted with dry needles. At the top follow the wooded trail northwards for about 1km and take the Monarchs Way path downhill a short way to the iron age settlement of Goosehill Camp. The undulating ground hidden in the woods was once a small settlement probably for a family group, who may have only spent time here when tending to their flocks. The views from here in 500BC would have been fantastic across the valley and up to the Trundle Hill Fort.

Double back up the hill and take either path through the open access woodland back towards Bow Hill. Nestled in the woodland just below the summit is Tansley’s Stone, a memorial to 20th century ecologist Sir Arthur Tansley who was instrumental in the campaign to get Kingley Vale registered as a national nature reserve.

A few hundred metres to the west of Bow Hill are the Devils Humps (Kings Graves) the most familiar archaeological feature of Kingley Vale. These large tumuli are superb examples of bronze age burial mounds. There are four barrows in total consisting of bell and bowl barrows, the difference is down to the ditch that surrounds them, the bell barrow ditch is separated from the mound by a narrow step whereas the bowl barrows ditch take the shape of an upturned bowl. Many folklores and legends surround these barrows such as how the men of Chichester defeated a Viking war party in the Vale, the Viking leaders were buried in the Devil's Humps hence their alternative name of the Kings Graves. Many of the Vikings died where they fell, under the Yew trees and on the slopes of the hill. Their ghosts are said to haunt the Yew groves, and the trees themselves are said to come alive and move at night. This folklore may have had its origin from a battle in AD 894 between the men of Chichester and the marauding Danes.

From the Devils Humps the route descends through Yew Tree Grove on the western edge of the reserve. Look out for the WW2 ‘Home Guard Auxiliary Units’ observation post which would have been linked to an underground patrol base near the bottom of the valley. Follow the same well trodden path back to the car park to complete the trek.

For more information and further walks please visit my blog at piertopiertrekking.com Simon Baker Irons To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

35

/Services to existing double glazing

Morag Moulsdale practices in Aldwick

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

36

Welcome to Arundel Clocks 01243 585059

Can you find the hidden Xmas phrases?

gary@arundelclocks.com I have been restoring, repairing, servicing and selling clocks for the last 25 years.

Arundel Clocks is based in the heart of Elmer Sands, West Sussex serving surrounding areas.

We are happy to undertake any work from a service to a major strip down and re‐build or restoration.

I always give a guaranteed price (with no hidden costs) and an estimated time for completion of the work undertaken, all repairs are backed up with a back to base twelve month guarantee.

10% Discount for OAPs

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

37

CALL INTO OUR SHOWROOM IN ROSE GREEN OPENING HOURS 9AM ‐ 3PM MONDAY ‐ FRIDAY

QUALIFIED PLASTERERS BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS KITCHEN INSTALLATIONS PAINTING & DECORATING WALL & FLOOR TILING ALL ROOFING WORK FASCIAS, SOFFITS CLADDING & GUTTERING HANDY MAN SERVICES FENCING, PATIOS HOUSE RENOVATIONS CARPETS & VINYL KARNDEAN FLOORING BOILER SERVICES ALL PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL SERVICES FAMILY RUN LOCAL BUSINESS WITH A GROWING TEAM OF FRIENDLY AND EXPERIENCED STAFF

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

38

www.stnicholasmiddleton.co.uk At the time of writing, I am pleased to say that St Nicholas, Middleton is open for Services on: Sundays at 8.00/10.00 a.m., Wednesdays at 8.00 a.m., and Thursdays at 10.00 a.m.

For Christmas, the plan is to have: Christmas Eve 4.00pm. an all age informal Service, then carols at 11.00pm with Midnight Mass at 11.30pm.

On Christmas Day, there will be Services at 8.00/10.00am. Unfortunately, we are not allowed to have any singing. Also, we are required to wear face coverings. However, at those Services there will be Carols to listen to and enjoy, from our compact disc collection. You will receive a warm welcome.

If arrangements change, given COVID, these will be announced on our Church notice-boards, the website (stnicholasmiddleton.co.uk) and St Nicholas Middleton Facebook. I am very happy if you would like to ‘phone me (586348 takes you straight to my mobile) about any prayer requests, any other matters, or simply if you would like to have a chat. With my good wishes Father William (Vicar of St Nicholas, Middleton)

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

39

Joint Pains

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

40

Bognor Regis Tide Table January 2021 Time Zone GMT

Tidal information is reproduced by kind permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office & the To advertise in Villages in FocusOffice. please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com UK Hydrographic Crown Copyright.

All rights reserved

41

VÄtáá|v `tÇàxÄá

We have moved!

Every fireplace made to order VÄtáá|v

`tÇàxÄá

Unit 3 Norfolk Estate Sawmills London Road Arundel BN18 9AU

Email: info@classicmantels.co.uk

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

42

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

43

Aerial & Satellite Connections

0800 634 3975

Puzzle Solutions G A M B I T L A N U O B J E C T S B O H U A C R E B A L E L P L U T O S A H S C O N T E M P E T R O N I E C E T E R A S S I N G L E

A R A I N F F A E L L T O A B O J E

C A M R A Z L I N E G E P I L E C W E

N E M T E R N G E Y B E E A T S T L S

Solution to December Quick Crossword

2 4 1 6 7 5 3 8 9

5 8 7 3 9 2 4 6 1

9 3 6 8 4 1 7 2 5

1 6 9 7 5 8 2 4 3

4 7 5 2 6 3 1 9 8

3 2 8 4 1 9 6 5 7

6 5 4 1 8 7 9 3 2

8 1 3 9 2 4 5 7 6

Solution to December Sudoku

Solution to Mind benders 1. Peace on Earth 2. Midnight Mass 3. Tinsel (T in sel)

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

7 9 2 5 3 6 8 1 4

44

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

45

Index of advertisers Aerial Installation

Diet / Exercise / Fitness

Kitchens / Bedrooms

Aerial Satellite Connections

Dance Ed

13

Dream Doors Sargeants KBB

35

Garden Concepts

47

Felpham Launderette 21

35

GRN Locksmith LockMedic

43

Bathroom Fittings/ Accessories Everything Bathroom 42

Builders

Double Glazing / Windows Andy Payne

46 17

Butcher Ye Olde Tudor Butchery 24,25

Caravan Services T H Caravan Services 39

Carpets & Flooring Sargeant’s Carpets 44 The Raven Flooring Co 29

Car Repairs & Services N L Autos

17

Chiropractor Dr A Cobb

39

Cleaning Service Conway Cleaning JazzWa Cleaning Miss Mop

32 11 13

Companion / Driving AngelCare

15

Landscaping

Driveways/Patios Vital Plants

Allbrights Roofing Solutions

Electrician Danny H

Financial Services Advice for Later Life

2

Fireplaces Classic Mantels

41

Footcare /Footwear Prescription Footwear 35

Funeral Services Darren Miles

47

Garage Doors A W Garage Doors GDS Sussex

36 19

Garden Services Garden Concepts Gary Mortley Vital Plants

17 4 47

Hairdresser

Computer Services

Karen Rainbow Salon

Scan Station

Hardware & Calor Gas

48

Curtains & Blinds Hillarys Stock Blinds

14 27

Dental Services Felpham Dental Surgery

22,23

A & M Barley

11 9

39 20 41

Health / Care AngelCare 15 Carewise WSCC 5 Connect to Support WSCC 27 Hollymead House 20 West Sussex Colonics 35

17

Laundry Services Locks / Security 38 30

Painting/Decorating The Decorator Man J R Decorating

11 12

Pest Control TempPest

13

Pet Services Scruff’s Dog Grooming 5

Plumber / Heating Alan’s Plumbing 12 JMG Heating Plumbing 39 Priority Heating 33

Property Maintenance Allbrights 46 Brett Property Services 37

Solicitor Helen Gagan Solicitor 31 MJR 6,7

Stairlifts Baronmead

3

Tree Surgeon Greenbelt Tree Surgery

18

Watches & Clocks Arundel Clockworks 36

All advertisements are printed in good faith, however Villages in Focus cannot take responsibility for the content of the adverts or the services provided by the advertisers.

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

46

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com

47

Pre paid plans Memorial masonryď€ 24 hour service, 7 days a week

Your local Independent Funeral Directors 107 Felpham Road, Felpham PO22 7PW Tel 01243 828210 www.darrenmilesfuneralservice.co.uk

Please mention Villages in Focus when responding to adverts

48

To advertise in Villages in Focus please email infocusmagazines@btinternet.com