Hamsey News Spring Edition 2014

Hamsey NEWS Spring Edition 2014

Derek Bastide cuts the cake to celebrate 30 years as Rector

The Newsletter for Cooksbridge, Offham, Hamsey and Bevernbridge www.hamsey.net

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Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey NEWS

Welcome to the spring issue of Hamsey News There’s some excellent news about a new bus service on Sundays and Public Holidays linking parts of the parish with Lewes and Hassocks. Mike Dodd gives key results from the recent Neighbourhood Plan survey and there’s an introduction to new parish councillor, Tamsyn d’Arienzo.

You can read about efforts and ideas to address the parking congestion at school drop-off and pick-up times, including Tamsyn’s appeal for more volunteers for the ParkPal driveway scheme.

Volunteers are also needed to operate a laser speed gun, help set up and clear up after the festival, weed and water the gardens at the station and to work with the trustees to promote shows at Beechwood Hall. If you feel you can help your community in any of these ways, please put yourself forward.

The newsletter includes dramatic pictures of some serious flooding in Offham while, on a brighter note, Moira Blake previews this year’s Hamsey Festival on Saturday July 12th. This will include a new photo competition as well

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as the popular bake-off and dog show, so get snapping, cooking and grooming.

The “business” column takes a different slant this time, with Rector Derek Bastide looking back on his 30 years in the parish, while “Day in the Life” goes to Old Cooksbridge with a contribution from Pete Langley.

All this and much more inside.

Kevin Froude, Editor

Contents Parish News �������������������������������������������������4 Beechwood Hall ����������������������������������������11 Hamsey School �����������������������������������������12 Hamsey School Fundraisers ��������������������14 Neighbourhood Plan �������������������������������16 Flooding in Offham ����������������������������������18 Life in Old Cooksbridge ��������������������������19 30 Years as Rector �������������������������������������20 Neighbourhood Policing �������������������������22 Jumble Sale �������������������������������������������������24 Hamsey Festival ����������������������������������������26 Cooksbridge Station ����������������������������������28 Monday Afternoon Club �������������������������30 Offham Church �����������������������������������������32 Forthcoming Events ����������������������������������38 Contacts �����������������������������������������������������40

PLEASE SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES A big thank you goes out to all the local businesses that have advertised and supported Hamsey News.

Please support local businesses and mention Hamsey News when responding to advertisers

To advertise please call Nick on 01843 834160

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Hamsey NEWS

Parish News PARISH COUNCIL

At their March meeting councillors unanimously agreed to co-opt Cooksbridge resident, Tamsyn d’Arienzo, to fill the vacancy on the council. The council now has a full complement. The council also agreed to nominate Cllr Kate McBrown as its representative on the board of trustees of Beechwood Hall.

Planning Applications At their May meeting the council will review how it deals with the opportunity to comment on local planning applications and will consider reinstating a dedicated “planning committee”.

Notice Board, Whitfeld Lane, Hamsey The notice board has started to leak and the parish council has considered whether it is worth the expense of replacing it. For some time now notices have not been posted on this board and no complaints have been received. If there are no objections from residents the board will be decommissioned and replaced later this year.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING The Annual Parish Meeting will take place at Beechwood Hall at 7pm on Thursday 8th May. Residents are invited to attend to hear a short review of the past year’s activities and to raise questions with councillors. This will be followed by a general parish council

meeting which the public are also welcome to attend.

ROADS AND TRAFFIC Gully – Offham Hill Highways have raised the tarmac ramp at the bottom of the bridleway on Offham Hill and cleared the adjoining gully, so that in future rainwater should be carried through a culvert under the A275 rather than flooding dangerously onto the road.

ESCC have raised the ramp and cleared the gully at the bottom of Offham Hill

Village Gates The parish council has considered the value of “village gates” to help control traffic speed. However, as they are expensive and there is no grant support available, the council has decided not to proceed.

Accident Statistics The parish council is obtaining the record of recorded accidents in the parish from Sussex Police.

Hamsey NEWS

Speed Checks PCSO Sally-Ann Reed did a speed check in Cooksbridge in March with two drivers being reported, one for speeding and the other for failing to wear a seat belt.

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trained volunteers, though the more volunteers there are, the more use can be made of the speed gun. The extent and time of volunteers’ involvement is entirely at their discretion.

COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH Sussex Police have recently purchased a number of “laser speed guns” for use by volunteers as part of the Community Speed Watch scheme. The parish council has reserved a speed gun for use at designated “safe sites” in Cooksbridge.

Training in the use of the speed gun is provided at Lewes Police Station at the volunteer’s convenience and should only take an hour or two.

The gun can only be operated during daylight hours by teams of two volunteers, one operating the machine and the other recording details.

The volunteers then use their own computers to input details of speeding vehicles onto Operation Crackdown on the Sussex Police website. The police may then write “warning letters” and take stronger action with persistent offenders. This does have an impact.

However, the sight of volunteers in yellow jackets pointing a speed gun is also a serious deterrent.

If you are concerned about speeding traffic in Cooksbridge please do consider getting involved by emailing kfroude@btopenworld.com A successful scheme requires at least six

New police warning signs about dangerous and inconsiderate parking

PARKING The parish council and the governors of Hamsey School are endeavouring to address the congestion caused by parents parking to drop-off and collect children. The problem has been exacerbated by the school’s success in attracting pupils from outside of the parish – currently only 40% of children are coming from within the

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Hamsey NEWS

Parish News parish. Parents are being canvassed about support for a “walking bus”, with children being escorted to school from a suitable drop-off point near the school.

Tamsyn d’Arienzo has also launched a ParkPal “drive-sharing” scheme between residents and parents. To discourage inconsiderate and dangerous parking on the main road, police warning signs are being put in place. Hopefully these initiatives will have an impact, though the council and the governors continue to search for further measures.

TRANSPORT Retiming of weekday 125 From 14th April the weekday 125 service from Cooksbridge to Barcombe was retimed to depart at 1757, a change from the previous 1752. This now provides a better connection for travellers on the 1647 train from London Victoria which arrives at Cooksbridge station at 1751.

New Sunday and Public Holiday Service on Route 131 From 25th May the Community Transport for Lewes Area (CTLA) is providing a new timetabled service on Sundays and Public Holidays. The 131 will link the parish to Lewes and Hassocks – and in Lewes connects with another new service, 132, to Firle Beacon, Southease and Newhaven. The 131 bus will leave Lewes Bus Station at 1045, 1245, 1515 and 1715 calling at the Blacksmiths Arms, Offham, 10 minutes

later. The bus then proceeds via the Half Moon at Plumpton and Ditchling to the Hassocks South Downs Garden Centre.

The journey from Lewes will take 35 minutes in all. Return buses to Lewes leave the Garden Centre at 1130, 1330, 1600 and 1800 reaching Offham 27 minutes later.

Though the bus will not call at Cooksbridge, it is a “hail and ride” service, so Cooksbridge residents can hail the bus near the junction with the B2116 Ditchling road. The CTLA is funded by East Sussex County Council in partnership with the South Downs National Park. Timetables are available from the CTLA.

FOOTWAY TO BEECHWOOD HALL The parish council and Beechwood Hall trustees each hold £12000 in their reserves towards the cost of a footway along Beechwood Lane from the A275 to Beechwood Hall. It is hoped that East Sussex County Council will fund the balance as part of the new “communitymatch” fund to be launched in May. Detailed designs have already been produced so the work is ready to proceed as soon as funding can be put in place.

COMMUNITY ASSETS The parish council is applying for Beechwood Hall to be listed with Lewes District Council as a “community asset”

Hamsey NEWS

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A little way down the road, my Parking. A solution reliant is half-empty.

Other friends Parking. A solution reliantof on goodwilldriveway and a heap of community spirit! on goodwill and a heap and neighbours are already out at community spirit!

Hamsey primary school is a popular school and one I feel privileged to walk our chil-

work in their cars at this time. dren to each day.school By the time parents arrive at school many parking spaces are alHamsey primary is a popular And soplaces ParkPal was Already ready taken andto safe, considerate to park areborn. at a premium. school and oneupI by feelcommuters privileged 7 amazing residents have offered parents don’t know if they will find a space and some residents have become a walkAnxious our children to each day. space to a designated parent increasingly frustrated with some parking, onparking pavements for example.

By the time parents arrive at school to use for these short periods; for A little way down theare road, my driveway is half-empty. Other friends and neighbours many parking spaces already about 15 minutes at around 8.35am areup already out at work in their cars at this time. taken by commuters and safe, and 3pm in the week. What an considerate places toborn. parkAlready are at7aamazing residents And so ParkPal was have offered a parking space encouraging start! premium.

Anxious parents to a designated parent to usedon’t for these short periods; for about 15 minutes at around Wouldstart! you like to get help, too? Call know if they a space 8.35am andwill 3pmfind in the week. What an encouraging me on 473771 with your questions and some residents have become Would you like to get help, too? You can call me on 473771 with your questions and and comments. I can pop out to see increasingly frustrated with some comments. I can pop out to see you if you like. Thank you, Tamsyn parking, on pavements for example. you if you like. Thank you, Tamsyn

Heroes wanted!

“Sharing my driveway:      

I have one parking ‘buddy’ of my choice They can park on my drive whilst walking their child/ren to and from school I’m helping to keep a small child safe I’m freeing up pavements and improving road safety I feel a sense of Community I’m doing something really good for our

Village ”

For more information or just to chat through the idea, call Tamsyn on 473771 or email tamsyndarienzo@yahoo.co.uk

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Hamsey NEWS

Parish News to ensure that it will be retained for community use. The council is also considering the listing other key community resources like the public houses, church and garage.

MERIDIAN SIGN The parish council has applied for planning permission and a licence from Highways to erect a sign showing where the Greenwich Meridian crosses the parish at Hamsey Common, marking the division between the western and eastern hemispheres.

The council has approved the funding and if permissions are received the sign will be built and erected by the Monday Group.

PLANNING Covers LW/14/0126: alterations to site layout and revised elevation treatment to existing timber store.

The parish council and the Station Partnership have objected to the proposal to demolish to demolish the goods shed which dates back to circa 1851.

Offham Farm SDNP/14/00152/ FUL: erection of an agricultural worker’s dwelling and extension of existing barn.

The parish council has made no comment.

BUS STOP AT STATION MEWS, COOKSBRIDGE On Thursday 3rd April I met with yet another new person (Mr. James Hore) from East Sussex County Council, who has taken over sorting out this bus stop. Those who read this newsletter will recall this saga has been running for nearly two years since the Pump House was demolished.

Very little progress has been made to date, despite the best efforts of the parish council..

Cars waiting to turn right into Chandlers Mead are overtaken on the inside. This is made very easy by the level pavement to road at this junction.

As many of you are aware this has resulted in a vehicle running into the end house flank wall with such force that both inside and outside walls have had to be replaced.

The crash has finally brought home to ESCC the dangerous situation the parish council has been constantly battling to have altered and made safer for those waiting for the bus.

The stop still requires a raised kerb both to afford protection and to make it much easier for the less able to get on and off the bus, marker posts to stop cars parking on this section by visitors to Station Mews and a painted section BUS STOP on the main road. The parish council will keep pressing for this.

Ian Ginn Chair, Hamsey Parish Council

Hamsey NEWS

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Parish News VEHICLE ACTIVATED SIGN (VAS) IN OFFHAM The sign, post and pole were demolished by a motorist crashing into them and down the bank in early November 2013.

Since then the parish council has been communicating with ESCC for a progress report and an update for two reasons: 1 The sign is badly needed, that’s why ESCC installed it in the first place.

Many a crashed car was ending up in the garden of cottages in Offham.

2 The Police know who the driver

was; he was insured so why should we as council tax payer foot the bill when this money could be well spent elsewhere.

As I write this update (2nd April) I cannot so far find out how much the final reinstatement will cost, whether or when ESCC will be pursuing a claim against the driver’s insurance and will the sign be in operation before the 5 months of being out of action is up.

Rest assured, the council will keep asking and let you know the outcome.

Ian Ginn Chair, Hamsey Parish Council

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Hamsey NEWS

New Parish Councillor AN INTRODUCTION

My name is Tamsyn d’Arienzo and I live in Cooksbridge with my husband Ronnie and our children aged 6, 4 and 18months. I am also step mother (not of the wicked variety) to Ronnie’s son, age 12. We moved to Cooksbridge from Brighton in 2005 with a view to renovating our 18th century PVC-clad cottage and moving on. Instead we have been keeping “Father Derek” busy with our marriage at the gorgeous old Hamsey Church and three subsequent baptisms. Wonderful neighbours have become true friends to our family.

During the week I keep busy with our little children, two of whom attend Hamsey Community Primary school and the littlest addition who adores Judith Bastide’s Toddler Tunes at St Peter’s, Offham on a Thursday morning.

I volunteer with the local Children’s Centres, helping out with administration and marketing.

In recent years we have seen the speed limit outside our house reduced to

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New parish councillor, Tamsyn d’Arienzo

30mph, brand new Beechwood Hall, playground, tireless campaigning for better rail and bus services and now something I’m very excited about, the new Meridian sign in Hamsey . I look forward to helping Hamsey Parish Council steer our villages positively through our next phases of change.

Tamsyn d’Arienzo

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News from Beechwood Hall Hall bookings remain strong and Jane Baldwin was recently engaged to support Jenni Toomey, the Hall Bookings Manager, in coordinating the volunteer key holders and generally assisting in the lettings of the hall.

Kate McBrown has been co-opted as a trustee to represent the parish council

The trustees are pleased to announce the co-option of a new trustee, Kate McBrown, as representative of the Parish Council. Kate is a long standing Cooksbridge resident and the trustees welcome her appointment.

The trustees are also pleased to announce the fitting of a Heart Defibrillator within the Hall. A plaque will be unveiled in memory of Cooksbridge resident, Brian Philpott, who contributed so much to the community. The defibrillator was jointly funded by the trustees,the Parish Council and the Sussex Heart Charity. It is seen as a positive step in providing a facility for the benefit of all that could be a real life saver.

If the defibrillator is required in an emergency when the hall is closed access can be arranged by calling Jenni Toomey on 07762 118985. Jenni will be able to give a code to access a key to the hall.

John Drury, Secretary

Applause Rural Touring Many residents will recall the great shows staged over the years in conjunction with Applause Rural Touring, culminating in the wonderful concert by Vimala and the Baker Boys last November. Thanks again to Sally Lane and Chris Rowan for organising this last show. The trustees of Beechwood Hall are keen that the programme should be continued and are looking for a volunteer, or volunteers, to take over the organisation, if only for a show or two. There is a wealth of experienced advice and support available. If you are interested please contact the secretary, John Drury, on 01273 400234.

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Hamsey NEWS

News from Hamsey School Spring Has Arrived!

Hedgehogs were focussing on nocturnal animal life and at the beginning of After the rain and wind that it seemed March, had the privilege of seeing and would never stop, spring has suddenly shown its face and the children are again touching some beautiful owls, when several of these magnificent creatures enjoying our lovely open spaces during from Huxleys Owls near Horsham came PE lessons and break times, whilst our to visit the school for the morning. youngest children in Hedgehogs Class are enjoying being able to fully use their Recently, our oldest class, Owls, had the opportunity to see the same birds outside classroom again. in their natural environment when they ventured out on a ’no torches’ evening Visits and Visitors hike in the dark to enrich their learning This term Foxes and Hedgehogs have had a topic called ‘Dark and Dangerous’. of ‘Into the Unknown’. However,I understand from adults accompanying Foxes Class spent some time learning them that they were making far too about lighthouses and this culminated much noise for any owl to have dared to in a visit to Shoreham Lighthouse and get near them!

Lifeboat Station, along with a very We have a well-established link with special visit from the authors and St Albans School in London and at illustrators of The Lighthouse Keeper’s the end of January their Year 5 visited Lunch, Ronda and David Armitage.

Hamsey School. We usually have a They worked with the children to draw walk across the fields, but due to them a scene of Mr Grinling relaxing on the being so waterlogged, we changed beach which is now hanging proudly plans and kept to the hard ground on in our school library. Meanwhile, a walk to St Peters Church, dropping in at Offham Farm en route. There the children from London were really interested to see the sheep and pigs and were particularly taken by the size of the sow who was due to farrow soon after the visit!

Thank you to Susan and Justin Harmer for allowing us to invade the farm with Owls class children separating materials in a science lesson about 45 excited children.

Hamsey NEWS

Book Week A couple of weeks ago we held a Hamsey School book week. Both children and adults had a wonderful time being thoroughly immersed in a range of fun reading and book activities. The week started with a visit from local author Miriam Moss who has written many books for children. She held a writing workshop or story telling session with all of the classes and at the end of the day sold and signed copies of her books for the children. During the week some of the other most popular activities were ‘Match the book to the teacher’; ‘guess the mystery books’ from picture and cryptic clues posted around the playground; DEAR times (the whole school has to Drop Everything And Read) and a very successful book swap that took place each day in the playground. To finish the week both

Children swap books as part of book week

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children and adults dressed up as a favourite book character and we held a parade in the warm spring sunshine.

The children all looked wonderful and our cook, Emma, had the very difficult task of judging. She finally decided that the winners from each class were: a delightful character called Flyaway Katie; the Snow Queen; Dicken from the Secret Garden and finally a very mean looking Cruella de Ville.

Next term we are looking forward to restarting Forest School activities. Owls Class will be off on their residential to Bowles Outdoor Activity Centre and there will be plenty of other school events like sports day, PATINA, Hamsey Festival and an end of year production in Beechwood Hall.

As always, I look forward to meeting some of you at these events.

Helen Smith, Headteacher

Prizewinners in the fancy dress competition

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Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey School Fundraisers It has been a quiet half term for HSF events compared to last term where we kicked off with Seedy Saturday straight away! We raised nearly £700 so thank you all for your amazing baking, and eating skills and helping out on the day!

This was followed by more baking the Children’s chocolate /Easter cake competition in April. Teachers did the tasting and gave out Easter prizes in reception and KS1/KS2 categories of yummiest and prettiest! On the same

day there was an Easter Egg hunt in the field after school. Children had to find a paper egg and exchange for 3 choc treats! (£1 a go). There was a Chocolate café with ice creams, cakes, hot and cold drinks and an Easter craft stall.

In March the Hamsey Cinema showed Totoro in the hall in March, at £2.50 per child including popcorn and a drink.

Emma Hopkins, Co-chair Hamsey School Fundraisers

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Hamsey NEWS

Neighbourhood Plan HAMSEY PARISH NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2014-2030

Since the last newsletter we have had the findings from the survey which was sent to all residents on the electoral roll. This was undertaken on our behalf by Action in rural Sussex. A total of 155 surveys were completed and returned giving a response rate of 33% which was seen as good to high by AirS and LDC. This response rate is positive as it will help to mould the details of our plan and be a key element in evidencing our proposals.

The survey response is far too detailed to put into this publication or a letter, but you can download the complete report by going to www.hamsey.net I have included a few of the key findings, which I felt would be useful as highlight and summary information:

88% agreed with the aim to establish Cooksbridge as an effective centre for residents of the parish

• 92% agreed with the steering group’s aim that the NP should promote sustainability in our parish, to help preserve our eco system and support social, community and cultural life • 88% agreed with the aim to establish Cooksbridge as an effective centre for residents of the parish, with improved facilities, improved community facilities and enhanced opportunities for leisure and social activities • 78% agreed that the focus for new housing should be in Cooksbridge and that we maintain the rural character and environment of our parish • 92% agreed that the plan should ensure that support for the local primary school reflects the increased number of families living in the parish • 87% agreed that links to the SDNP are improved and Cooksbridge is a recognised “gateway” to the park • 94% agreed that the plan should support existing and new businesses which are integrated into the community • a slight majority 56% gave high support for a minimum of 30 new houses to be built • a slight majority 61% gave low support for more than 30 houses to be built • support for housing on Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) was as follows:

Hamsey NEWS

Covers got highest support as a development site for new housing

Covers: 54% high support, 12% low support Hamsey Brickworks: 39% high support, 29% low support Opposite Beechwood Hall: 33% high support, 34% low support North of Covers: 30% high support, 44% low support Woodland near Beechwood Hall: 25% high support, 48% low support • the highest percentage support for use of planning gains resulting from new homes are: 54% more village parking spaces 53% support for a community shop 49% improved footpaths linking station to Beechwood hall 41% improved cycle routes 40% children’s play area within any new development • highest support for housing type: 57% high support for new semidetached homes 45% high support for terraced homes

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• highest support for user groups for new developments: 70% retired people or sheltered housing 58% for families 42% for couples 28% for singles • more stopping trains at Cooksbridge: 75% want more services at all times and days • 86% gave high support that the number of travellers sites in the parish should be limited to the present on by Offham Garage The next phase is to begin the writing of the plan itself, which will include our policies and the criteria around them, which will be the official part which is voted upon and projects which support the whole plan and is more akin to a local plan.

We will give you an update as to our progress in the summer edition.

Mike Dodd, Chair Hamsey Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group

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Hamsey NEWS

Valentine Day Floods Hit Offham Torrential downpours throughout the day proved too much for the drains in Offham. Rainwater flooded down from the hills of Mill Laine Farm, finding its main outlet on the drive between the Old Granary and 7 Offham Cottages.

Drove. Volunteers joined residents with buckets, brushes and even a snow shovel to get water off the drive and onto the road. The rains eased and the immediate crisis passed, at least until the further storms forecast for the evening ahead.

Sadly the Fish Gate was severely damaged and the occupiers have had to move out while it is dried out and repaired. There was also some damage at ground floor level to the Cottages, but without the real community effort it would have been much worse. Thanks to everyone who helped.

Residents have now involved East Sussex Resident Lynda Ridge clears flood water from the drive�

County Council, with (Picture courtesy Connors of Brighton) the support of Cllr St This became a veritable river which Pierre, to identify means to reduce, and then flowed across the A275 and hopefully eliminate, the flood risk to down The Drove towards the River these properties.

Ouse. The Fish Gate and 7-9 Offham Cottages have a frontage below the level of the road and given the speed of the rising water, flooding of the cellars was inevitable. Energy was directed at keeping water out of the ground floors of these properties, while also protecting the adjoining Old Granary and the Old Posthouse on the other side of the road. Walls of sandbags were brought into the village and put in place, while pressure in the drains was relieved by Emergency services attended to help deal with raising the drain cover at the top of The the floodwater, but could do little

Hamsey NEWS

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Life in Old Cooksbridge You may have seen us. A large bald figure puffing around the roads in bright yellow – that’s me. And if you’re ever in the vicinity of Streat Lane you may have seen my wife Jill riding her horse Larry a handsome chestnut cob.

If you were in the area about 10 to 15 years ago and frequenting The Rainbow you were probably served by our daughter Sally or our son Sam (known affectionately – I hope – as ‘standaround Sam’). They both enjoyed their time at Hamsey School and Priory in Lewes before heading off to university in the north of England.

If you’ve ever noticed a green building as the A275 bears left by The Rainbow, that’s in our garden – it’s the old Cooksbridge ‘tin tabernacle’- a prefabricated structure that used to act as a ‘reading room’ and Sunday school, now converted into office space.

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the emergency services. We have even had the house invaded by five crazy Bichon Frises when Pete Langley lives in their owner was Old Cooksbridge injured en route to the grooming parlour in Barcombe.

If our family were a stick of seaside rock then the word ‘education’ might well run through it. Sally is teaching Art in a comprehensive school in Reading while Sam teaches keyboard skills to primary pupils in Sheffield. Jill taught Art and Design Technology at schools in Brighton and at Northease Manor School near Rodmell. I have worked at Brighton and Hove VI Form College (BHASVIC) for over 20 years as well as writing, editing and publishing educational books. I currently work on student websites ‘The Student Room’ and ‘Get Revising’ so if any of your friends or relations has exams coming up you know where to look for help!

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Hamsey NEWS

Can it really be thirty years…!

Derek Bastide tells us about his time as Rector JANUARY 1984

CELEBRATIONS

Thanks to George Orwell’s The last 3 decades novel, the year 1984 now have seen many has an ominous sound, but celebrations. Over not at Offham Rectory! On 350 babies (and a 19 January 1984 I became good number of your Rector, following adults too) have in the footsteps of Parish been baptised and I Priests going back to am now conducting 1147. Some Rectors have marriages for some of been here a very long those earliest babies. time – George Croxton Shiffner served the parish Ursula Hare made a fantastic cake And there have been so many big occasions. between 1848 and 1906, a grand total of 58 years. So after 30 years We celebrated the Millennium in style with a service at Hamsey Church there is still some way to go! reflecting the past 1000 years; then a Hamsey and Offham churches were at the cutting edge of church appointments torchlight procession to Offham Church to look forward to the next 1000 years.

30 years ago. There were very few nonMore recently a 4 day extravaganza stipendiary priests then (i.e. those who support themselves by a full time secular marked the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Funds have now been raised to repair job so that in effect they have 2 jobs). the lovely West Window renamed the Copious amounts of black coffee have helped the balancing act!

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Hamsey NEWS

21

Some of the congregation from 30 years ago, from l-r, back row: Andrew Stewart-Roberts, Dan and Derek Bastide, middle row: Helen Vergel de Dios, Judith Bastide, Shirley Whitley, Phyllida Stewart-Roberts, John Whitley, front row: Eve Randall

A VERY SOCIAL PARISH Up to 5 years ago of course there was no Church Hall so most social events took place in the Rectory (or Rectory garden for the annual Parish Picnic).

Behind the scenes there was always a mass tidying up on Saturday evenings before next day, when the Sunday school took over the dining room and sitting room followed by coffee for the whole congregation in the Rectory kitchen.

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The Malthouse in Cooksbridge was the venue for the annual Christmas Fair and the Harvest Supper (with the Offham Oafs “entertainment” as a much anticipated highlight!)

THANK YOU Little of this would have been possible without you amazing parishioners.

Thank you all so much for all your love and support – God bless you all and here’s to the next 30 years!!

Derek

01273 472244

22

Hamsey NEWS

Neighbourhood Policing There have only been two reported crimes in the first three months of the year, theft from a front loader in Beechwood Lane and a burglary from business premises in Cooksbridge.

Sheds, garages, workshops and outbuildings With the onset of better weather, Sussex Police are particularly concerned about the security of sheds, garages, workshops and outbuildings. There were no less than five reported break-ins in Lewes rural villages over the weekend 22nd-23rd March, including theft of tools from a workshop on Resting Oak Hill and a break-in to nurseries at Mill Lane, Barcombe. Buildings should be kept locked and valuable items security marked.

Distraction theft The police also ask of the public to be on guard about “distraction thefts”. For example a woman in Tesco car park was told that there was a nail in her tyre and while she was checking her bank

cards were stolen. Other distraction techniques include asking for directions or telling someone that they have dropped some money. The public are urged to take sensible precautions – not leaving bags unattended, ensuring bags are zipped up, locking valuables in a car before speaking to or helping anyone.

Illegal “off-roading” Sussex Pathwatch is a special service set up to help protect the safety of everyone using rights of way, fields and woodland – and to prevent the damage that illegal “off-roading” can cause. Find out more at www.pathwatch.info People witnessing illegal or antisocial off-road driving on paths in the countryside should report it to the police using the new 101 number or emailing contact. centre@sussex.pnn.police.uk

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Hamsey NEWS

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Bevernbridge

Report from Sally Blackmore Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Lewes District Police have notified me to remind people to keep their sheds, garages, workshops and outbuildings safe and secure as there have been a number of thefts recently.

The advice from the Police is to lock and where possible take the time to property mark outdoor items – a free Property Marking pack can be obtained from our local PCSO Steven Knowles (Bevernbridge) steven.knowles@sussex.pnn.police.uk or from PCSO Sally-Ann Reed (elsewhere) sallyann.reed@sussex.pnn.police.uk

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Hamsey NEWS

Annual Parish Jumble Sale A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make the Jumble Sale such a success again. We raised ÂŁ895 which we were delighted with. So many people helped in different ways. Thank you to Kevin and Tom for helping with leafleting and to Mavis for writing about us in the Parish Pump. We had so many kind donations of jumble. Many people helped set up the Jumble Sale. Thanks go to Jo, Nina, Julie, Micki, Kirsty, Tamsyn, Jim and Peter for their help on Friday and to Jo and her van for helping to clear on Sunday. So many worked tirelessly through the weekend. A big

thank you to Shirley, Jo, Julie, Rob and Maggie, Peter and Joan, Lucinda and Bill, Nick and Angela, Ellen, Jane and Charlotte, Sarah, Karen, Rose, Kate, Keavy, Kara, Robert, Jennie, Ian, Jim and Tom. On such a sunny day Rob and Maggie were able to set up their book and DVD stall under the verandah.

Susie, Saf and Sylvie in the kitchen did a wonderful job serving teas and delicious homemade cakes. The sunny weather meant we could also sell larger items and garden tools outside and everyone enjoyed sitting outside to have their tea and cake. We were concerned that there

Rob Pinder and Nick Betteridge sold books and larger items outside the hall

Saf Bruce-Quay, Suzie Edwards and Sylvie Atterbury served tea and cakes

Organiser Anita Walker with Sarah Nelson, Julie Philpott and Tom Walker

Hamsey NEWS

25

were four other Jumble Sales nearby on the same day but this did not deter people from queuing from 12 o’clock outside and although there seemed to be fewer people we made more money than last year. We need to give special thanks to several families and other residents who gave us such high quality pottery and textiles. We may even be able to boost our total if we can sell a few things we have left on ebay.

Thank you to all the cake-makers and a very special thank you to Lucinda for our final lemon drizzle cake. They have all been memorable. I hope no one has been left out. The money raised will go towards the Hamsey Festival and community events. I think once again it can be said of this wonderful group of people that they know how to put on a good Jumble Sale.

Anita Walker

Rob McBrown was on the door, Peter Mitchell on electrical

Angela Betteridge, Jo Hughes and Shirley Whitley on bric-a-brac

Karen Dodd, Ellen Hockridge and Rose Fuhrmann on the clothes stall

26

Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey Festival Saturday 12th July 2pm-8pm

As this is the last newsletter before July we just wanted to remind you that the Hamsey Festival is taking place on Saturday 12th July from 2pm-8pm at Beechwood Hall.

Details are yet to be finalised but there will be lots of familiar activities taking place including our renowned dog show, the ever popular five-aside- football tournament, various other sporting activities and, last but not least, the Great Hamsey Bake-Off. Age categories for the Bake-Off will be 4-9yrs, 10-15yrs & 16 plus. Judges will be looking at texture, presentation and most importantly, taste – so, get baking!

Entries cost £1 and will be accepted until 3pm on the day.

We have some new activities this year to keep everyone of all ages entertained.

There will be a circus skills workshop for those of you who have ever fancied stilt walking, music making workshops, craft activities – and we’re also hosting a new photography competition – please see details to the right. We are also encouraging local artists and crafts people to come and sell their wares, with an emphasis on things vintage.

This year we’re having a vintage theme – there will be a Lindyhop swing dancing lesson from around 4.30pm followed by a fab band to practice your new dancing skills to later in the evening .

No-one will go hungry this year … we have some great food on offer and of course St Peter’s Church will be providing their fantastic tea and cakes.

Meanwhile, Hamsey School Fundraisers will be quenching our thirst with their marvellous bar.

Be sure to make Saturday 12th July a special date in your diaries and join us for some vintage themed Festival fun !

Please contact Moira on 07790 094390 or Kirsty on 07703 105654 if you would like to book a stall for £5. We are also looking for helpers to set up on the day and help clear up on the Sunday.

The Festival organising team, from l-r, back row Anna Archer, Jane Disney, Tamsyn d’Arienzo, Kirsty Curran, front row Emma Hopkins, Moira Blake

Hamsey NEWS

27

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We hope to display a number of photos, each with a new perspective on our parish, captured on camera by you. Judging and prize giving will take place on the afternoon of the festival.

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Hamsey NEWS

Cooksbridge Station Train Service

Ticket Vending Machine

Southern has dismissed our request for five additional weekday stopping trains, quoting timetable constraints and impact on overall journey times.

We remain totally unconvinced by their arguments, especially as they manage to stop trains in rush hours when the network is at its busiest. We escalated our concerns to the Chief Executive and have been invited to a meeting in May to discuss it further. That month we should also know the successful bidder for the new franchise, effective July 2015, together with the details of the service offered in the tender document.

We remain ever hopeful that there may be some good news for travellers from Cooksbridge.

The machine became so unreliable that the issue was referred to the Commercial Director at Southern. We are told that the network has since been enhanced but the service remains highly variable. Southern has also promised a full “MOT” of the machine to resolve some of the “mechanical” problems, including occasional failure to deliver tickets, even when paid for.

The garden in front of the station now has a wooden border to protect the plants

Station Environment Efforts to create and populate gardens and verges at the station have yielded a great display of daffodils, with many more plants ready to come into bloom as the year unfolds. Many thanks to Organic Matters of Barcombe for providing the chippings which help us keep the weeds under some control.

We will shortly be entering the busy weeding and watering season and though we now have a team of five, more people would be helpful. If you can spare some time please email kfroude@btopenworld.com Also if you have spare plants or cuttings please feel free to put them in.

We have been impressed that Southern has taken seriously our concerns about puddling at the bottom of the steps to platform one and the poor state of the road surface at the entrance to the car park. Both have now been resurfaced.

One unfortunate commuter managed to hit and demolish part of the wall

Hamsey NEWS

fronting the station car park – not the first to do so either – and we have suggested to Southern that they fit some form of barrier to warn motorists and protect the wall. We still have a number of outstanding issues but can point to very real progress in improving our station.

Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire The recent survey of residents’ views confirmed how important the train station and service is to the parish: • How important is having a train station to you and your household? low importance: 25 high importance: 105 • How frequently do you use the train service? daily: 30 weekends: 7 weekly: 39 infrequently: 70

The wall to the car park was damaged by a vehicle while parking

29

• Where are you typically travelling to by train from Cooksbridge?

London: 114 | Lewes: 49 Brighton: 33 | other: 21 • How do you travel to Cooksbridge station? cycle: 10 | walk: 112 | drive 48 • How important do you think it is to have more stopping trains? low importance: 16 high importance: 114 • When do you think there should be more stopping trains weekdays during the day: 62 weekdays during the evening 61 Saturdays 71 Sundays 55 all of the above 86 This data will be very helpful in our campaign for a better train service Thanks to everyone who filled in the questionnaire.

Cooksbridge Station Partnership

Ian Ginn helped to repair the wall and revive the honeysuckle

30

Hamsey NEWS

Monday Afternoon Club 2014 got off to a very good start when two marvellous speakers, Michael Bird and Brian Walter, were both invited back by popular demand. We had all found their 2013 talks so engrossing.

In February Michael told us even more about the complexities of bee keeping and brought his own honey for us to sample and to buy. Then in March it was Brian’s turn. He continued his slide show on the scenery and wildlife of New Zealand - this time of the South Island - which he has explored on several occasions while visiting his brother.

On April 14th we are looking forward to members of East Sussex Fire Service giving us a presentation: “How Safe is Your Home “. P.C.S.O. Julie McNirlan, who lives in Cooksbridge, will be talking about her work at our meeting on May 12th. She will not be the only visitor.

Bishop Martin, the Bishop of Chichester, will be in the parish on that day as part of his 18 month programme of visiting every parish in the diocese. He’ll be dropping in to the Monday Afternoon

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Michael and Marion Bird talked to the club about bee keeping

Club for a few minutes – we think he’s heard rumours of our delicious cakes and warm welcome!

We’re hoping for a” Flaming June” so we can fully appreciate Caroline Featherstone’s marvellous garden at its very best on June 9. She is generously providing tea and a chance to admire her amazing horticultural skills. It should be our very own Chelsea Flower Show!!

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Hamsey NEWS

31

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And finally – looking ahead several months - we hope all retired members of our community have August 11 in their diaries. The Monday Club will be hosting a very special birthday party on that day in Offham Church Hall for Iris Winch’s 100th birthday.

Iris lived in Cooksbridge for many years and was a familiar sight riding her motorized buggy along the lanes.

She has now moved to Nightingales Residential Home in Newick but she and her faithful buggy still have a lift into Lewes every Tuesday morning to shop. We know there will be a really big turnout for our August meeting to help Iris celebrate in the style she deserves.

See you there and at all our other meetings!

Judith Bastide

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Hamsey NEWS

News from your Parish Church A Busy Start to the Year

More Social Events

2014 started with celebrations marking Derek’s thirty years in the parish. Many old friends came back to join us at the 10.30 service on January 26th and then to the drinks celebration afterwards (with a delicious cake by Ursula of course - how many celebration cakes has she made over the years?). We were thrilled with the gift from the parish of a cut glass decanter and glasses and will treasure them. We have doubts whether the superb wine and champagne we were given will last quite as long!

August seems a long way off but if we want tickets for Chichester Festival Theatre, we have to book early. Our coach trip to a matinee of a musical with a carvery meal on the way back is always great fun and is open to everyone in the village. This year it’s Guys and Dolls on August 20th. Do contact Judith (01273 47356) if you would like to join us – at the time of writing there are still some spare tickets.

Before then we have the Fish and Chip Supper in the Church Hall on Friday, May 17th – profits to Water Aid. All details again from Judith.

Among the many photos that were taken were those of Andrew and Phyllida Stewart-Roberts, Shirley and John Whitley (churchwarden in 1984), Eve Randall, Bill and Lucinda Rendall and Bill Hudson - all of whom were in the congregation on that first Sunday. You don’t look a day older - which is more than can be said for two others in the picture, our children, Dan and Helen!

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A Fond Farewell Many in the village were saddened to learn of the death of John Davis. He and Marilyn ran the Rainbow with flair and panache before taking a well earned retirement some twenty years ago. The Rector took his crowded memorial service on February 21st. Our condolences go to Marilyn and their son, Guy.

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Hamsey NEWS

33

The Bishop’s Visit

Hamsey Season

Bishop Martin, the fairly new Bishop of Chichester, is visiting every parish in the diocese over a two year period. We look forward to his visit to us on Monday, May 12th. Among other things, he’ll be popping in to the Monday Afternoon Club for a few minutes while he is here.

(Have rumours of our delicious cakes reached Chichester?)

The summer services in Hamsey Church begin on Sunday, May 4th with Holy Communion at 8am and Evensong at 6pm. As usual the May evensong will include a Rogation procession and the blessing of the crops.

Hamsey Church If you have been down to Hamsey Church you may have noticed that part of the churchyard has been fenced off and that there are two warning notices in place. This is because over the years there has been some slippage of tiles on the south roof of the nave and the signs are a precaution. We are assured that everything is perfectly safe so concerts, services, weddings, baptisms etc continue as normal. We will keep you posted over developments.

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Congratulations to the winning team the Buccaneers – of Caroline, Andrew, Vicky and Newsletter editor, Kevin. We look forward to a re-run next year.

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Hamsey NEWS

Skittles Evening at the Chalk Pit Inn

Chrissie Heanley & Andrew Stewart-Roberts

Aaron Rees, Natalie Axford & Fiona Rees

Alice and Tim Renton with Geoff Spinks

The children replaced the skittles, from l-r Sophis Vergel de Dios, Tamsin Poole & Talee Vergel de Dios

Angela Spinks & Vicky Myers

The winning Buccaneers team, l-r Andrew & Caroline Featherstone, Vicky Myers & Kevin Froude

Hamsey NEWS

35

Jazz and Jam A musical entertainment in aid of Pestalozzi International Village Beechwood Hall, Sunday 8 June, 2.30-4.30pm The International Village, at Sedlescombe, near Battle, supports and provides a home and a host of extracurricular activities for 45 bright and motivated 16-19 year olds from disadvantaged backgrounds, whilst they study for university entrance exams at Sussex Coast College in Hastings. Currently students come from Nepal, Bhutan, India, Tibet, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda and Belize. The academic and vocational successes of past students have made a real difference both to their futures and that of their home communities.

The highlight of the afternoon will be performances by the Bryn Bridges Jazz Trio. The trio has a well established reputation in the area, having performed regularly in Ringmer and Isfield. Bryn himself is an accomplished keyboard

player and former organist at Ringmer Parish Church; he is joining up with his double-bassist, Chris Hinman, and drummer, Frank Fox-Wilson, especially for this occasion.

Supporting the jazz group’s items will be various song and dance routines performed by Pestalozzi students – all evocative of their home communities and some in national dress. Those who have attended the annual Pestalozzi Christmas concerts in Lewes can attest to the quality of Pestalozzi student contributions.

In addition to the musical performances there will be stalls, a raffle and cream teas, plus, of course, access to the play area for children.

Tickets will cost £7 for adults and £3 for children, including the cream tea, and can be purchased at the door.

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Hamsey NEWS

FreeFREE Adult Education Courses Adult Education Courses (with crèche)

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Lewes Call to book today 01273 336870 Crèche available

A 3 week course , learn to revamp your children’s clothes on a budget

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21st May 10am-12noon

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4th/11th/18th June 10am-12noon

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Hamsey NEWS

37

39 Years of Open Gardens at Offham House Congratulations to the Carminger/ Goodman family at Offham House, who will once again open their gates on the afternoon of Sunday 27th April, for the 39th year, in aid of the NGS ‘Open Garden’ scheme. Tens of thousands of pounds have been already been raised over the past 38 years for the National Garden Scheme charities and no doubt this year will be no exception. Hundreds of visitors enjoy the gardens and Miranda and her team’s delicious home-made teas.

Jodi Crispin’s plant sales add to the overall total raised.

The gardens will be open again on the afternoon of Sunday 1st June, so make a date in your diaries and come along and enjoy this horticultural delight that is so much a part of the parish annual calendar!

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Hamsey NEWS

Forthcoming Events Sunday Apr 27

Open Gardens at Offham House, 1-5pm

Sunday June 8

Thursday May 8

Musical entertainment for Pestalozzi International Village, Beechwood Hall, 2.30pm-4.30pm

Thursday May 8

Monday Afternoon Club, Afternoon Tea in Caroline’s Garden, 2pm

Annual Parish Meeting at Beechwood Hall, 7pm

Monday June 9

Parish Council meeting at Beechwood Hall, 7.30pm

Friday June 13

Monday May 12

Thursday June 26

Monday Afternoon Club, talk by PCSO Julie McNirlan, Church Hall, 2pm (The Bishop of Chichester will also be dropping into this meeting)

Friday May 16

Fish and Chip Supper, Church Hall, 7pm.

Profits to Christian Aid Emergency Relief Fund

Sunday June 1

Open Gardens at Offham House, 1-5pm

Compline at Hamsey Church, 7pm AGM, Beechwood Hall Trustees, Beechwood Hall, 7pm

Sunday June 29

Church, Annual Parish Picnic in Church Grounds from 11.30am

Saturday July12

Hmsey Festival At Beechwood Hall and Grounds, 2pm-8pm

Monday July 14

Monday Afternoon Club, Tea and Chat, Church Hall, 2pm

Friday July 25

Sunday School and Toddler Tunes trip to Drusillas

Monday August 11

Monday Afternoon Club, special Birthday Party to mark Iris Winch’s 100th Birthday, Church Hall, 2pm

Wednesday August 20

Church coach trip to Chichester Festival Theatre to see matinee production of “Guys and Dolls”, open to everyone.

Hamsey NEWS

Regular Events at Beechwood Hall (details from 890621) Mondays

Mornings:Yoga Classes Evenings: Dance Classes

Tuesdays

7pm, Sussex Police Choir (new members welcome)

Thursdays

9am-10am: QiGong Classes

Fridays

Mornings: Keep Fit

39

QiGong Classes at Beechwood Hall QiGong is an ancient Chinese way of working with body and mind to maintain or regain health, fitness, coordination, balance, suppleness and a deeper understanding of the self. The exercises are gentle and include breathing techniques and working with mind images to explore concepts that may be underpinning inhibition of movement and weaknesses of our immune responses. You are very welcome to join any time: Thursdays 9am to 10am at Beechwood Hall. Please ring Rose before your first attendance: 01273 400914 Rose Fuhrmann, Cooksbridge

Other Venues Mondays

2pm, second Monday in the month, Monday Afternoon Club in Church Hall

Tuesdays

9am Running Club meet at 27 Chandlers Mead (term time only)

SUSSEX

Wednesdays

TAXIS

Thursdays

Airports Seaports All long journeys

7.30pm Pilates in the Church Hall (term time only) 10am-11.30am Toddler Tunes in the Church Hall

Fridays

9am-11am Babies and Toddlers at Hamsey School (term time only) After school cake sales at Hamsey School (term time only)

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40

Hamsey NEWS

Contacts Clerk to Hamsey Parish Council clerk@hamsey.net or 01273 890621

Book Beechwood Hall 07762 118985

Report noise pollution 01273 484340

To report fly tipping 01273 484999

Police (non emergency) 101 or: 0845 60 70 999

Crimestoppers 0800 555111

Use this number to provide

anonymous information about crime or criminals and you may get a reward

British Transport Police 0800 405040

Age UK 0800 169 6565

Help the Aged 0808 800 6565

Dental helpline 01273 403546

Trading standards 01323 418200 trading.standards@eastsussexcc.gov.uk

Hamsey CP School 01273 400370

Rev. Derek Bastide 01273 474356 www.offhamwithhamsey.org.uk