Hamsey News

Hamsey NEWS August 2015 Edition

The ever popular dog show at this year’s Hamsey Festival

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

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Hamsey NEWS

CONTENTS The Lavender Line is a preserved railway that boasts a fantastic family atmosphere in the heart of East Sussex. The railway travels for a two mile round trip between the village of Isfield and Worth halt located in the Parish of Little Horsted. At Isfield you will find the headquarters of the Lavender Line which includes our original Victorian station and signal box.

Come and enjoy the sights and sounds of a preserved railway whilst travelling through the beautiful Wealden countryside. A great day out for the whole family.

Level Crossing Safety ������������������������4 Parish News ����������������������������������������5 New Path Alongside B2116 ��������������8 Neighbourhood Plan ����������������������10 Beechwood Hall AGM ����������������������12 News from Cooksbridge Station ��15 News from your Parish Church ������16 School Report ����������������������������������18 Monday Afternoon Club ������������������20 A View From A Basket ����������������������21 Hamsey Festival ������������������������������22 Sporty Hamsey ��������������������������������28

01825 750515 www.lavender-line.co.uk

Events ������������������������������������������������30

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Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey NEWS

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WELCOME TO THE SUMMER ISSUE OF THE HAMSEY NEWS It’s been a glorious few months in Hamsey Parish with the sun shining on us and making all the many activities going in in the area so much more fun!

To begin on a sober note there is a real concern over the level crossing barriers at Hamsey crossing and we have prioritised an article from Robert Baughan which highlights the very real dangers of not observing correct procedures at the crossing. Please do read this and if you see any inappropriate behaviour on the crossing let Rob know as a matter of urgency.

It’s a pleasure to note that the new Beechwood Path has been officially opened, more of this later with pictures. However, it is disappointing to see that dog mess has frequently been left all over the new path. There is no excuse for this with free poo bags and a dog bin in the Beechwood Hall car park and one at the level crossing. Please do be a respectful and responsible dog owner, we are fortunate to live in such a beautiful area, let’s keep it that way.

The Hamsey Village Festival was a wonderful day, proving when we get together as community we make it fun!! Thanks to Tamsyn d’Arienzo and her team for making it happen, Tamsyn has written an account

of the day and we have so many wonderful pictures of the day due to the work of Andrew Featherstone, Kirsty Curran and Jane Baldwin, so many thanks to them. We hope you enjoy the photo montage and apologies to any of the winners whose names we may have missed.

There is lots to catch up on, Mike Dodd has an update on the Neighbourhood Plan, the Station Partnership has been as busy as ever (on a personal note we love the station flower beds this year, simply stunning!). The Church has a lot of news for everyone to catch up on too and it was a particularly nice way to spend a recent Saturday morning eating cakes at the pop up café run by Judith and her team.

We’d also like to thank Helen Smith of Hamsey School for her informative updates and to wish her well as she moves on at the end of term.

We hope you enjoy the News and as always please do let us know if you have contributions or ideas for future editions, this is your News so get involved!!!

Contact Ailsa on ailsasuttie@icloud.com or Lucy Jane on lucy_jane_ward@yahoo.com Wishing you all a wonderful summer and we’ll see you in the autumn for the next edition.

Best Ailsa & Lucy

To advertise in Hamsey News please call Mary on 01843 295371

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Hamsey NEWS

Safety at Hamsey Level Crossing This summer there have been some technical issues at Hamsey Level Crossing which have resulted on occasions in the lights flashing intermittently or the barriers remaining in the down position for a prolonged period of time. These incidents have been attended to

by Network Rail, thoroughly investigated and rectified with no danger posed to road users obeying the warning lights and barriers.

However, during at least one of these incidents some frustrated motorists have lost patience and driven across, weaving around the barriers. This is illegal, irresponsible and totally unacceptable behaviour. Even if someone is acting as a “lookout” on the track, there is simply not enough time to cross safely. As well as risking their own life, such drivers are also putting at risk the safety of all the passengers on a train. If you encounter a problem at Hamsey Level Crossing, you should report it using the emergency telephone at the crossing and follow the instructions given. In no circumstances should you take risks with the safety of yourself and others.

The issue of misuse by road users at Hamsey Level Crossing has been escalated within Network Rail by the Parish Council and we are working with them to make a case for potential additional measures to reduce the risk arising from misuse.

If anyone witnesses misuse of Hamsey Level Crossing, please provide full details to Parish Councillor Robert Baughan (robert. baughan@btinternet.com / 07725 957202) in order that they can be collated and passed on to the relevant rail authorities for action.

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Hamsey NEWS

Parish News ELECTIONS Seven parish councillors were elected on May 7th. They are Ian Ginn, Robert Baughan, Tamsyn D’Arienzo, Ailsa Suttie and Kate McBrown from Cooksbridge.

Justin Harmer and Mike Dodd from Offham. Prospective candidate Rod Hearn from Hamsey missed out by just one vote and the parish council have asked Lewes District Council to look at whether the number of parish councillors for Hamsey could be raised to 8. The parish council loss was, however, to the advantage of the Beechwood Hall team, as Rod has become a trustee of the hall.

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NEW PAVEMENT IN BEECHWOOD LANE The parish council worked with hall trustees, East Sussex County Council and the South Downs Park Authority to finance and install a safe pavement along Beechwood Lane.

This is well used and really proved its worth when the primary school used Beechwood Hall for their rehearsals and performances of the Summer Show. Unfortunately the area between the pavement and hedge which was seeded with wild flowers by SDNP is now being used as a dog toilet by thoughtless and lazy pet owners. The parish council received a request for an additional dog waste bin to be installed but as there is already a bin and free bags supplied just across the road in Beechwood Park, the council could not justify an additional cost of £600 per year to provide this facility.

Parish news continues overleaf…

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Hamsey NEWS

Parish News COOKSBRIDGE TO LEWES

PLANNING

The footway beside the A275 from Cooksbridge to Lewes which is quite narrow in places can become overgrown very easily.

Overhanging branches, nettles and brambles from adjoining fields and gardens and even wet leaves can make this route difficult to use. Cllr. Ian Ginn will continue to lobby for the whole of this route to be cleared annually. It used to be done by the ESCC village maintenance team but sadly that team has fallen victim to cuts. If your field or garden borders the route, please help keep pedestrians safe by trimming back your hedges and shrubs.

Lewes District Council and the National Park Authority haves made the following decisions:

EXTRA BUS SERVICE FOR SUMMER SATURDAYS CTLA are providing a service between 23 May and 26 September on Saturdays only.

The 131 will pick up from The Blacksmiths Arms in Offham at 08.57,10.57,14.57 and 15.57 to travel through Plumpton and Ditchling to Ditchling Beacon.

TIME TO READ The Mobile Library service will visit Little Mead in Cooksbridge between 10.35am and 11.05am on the following dates: July 17th, August 7th and 28th, September 18th, October 9th and 30th, November 20th and December 11th 2015.

To advertise in Hamsey News please call Mary on 01843 295371

LW/15/0151 11 Malthouse Way, Cooksbridge - Single storey rear extension, first floor side extension and garage conversion - granted LW/15/0028 Boundary Hall, Wickham Lane, Cooksbridge - Replacement single storey extension to south elevation, fenestration alterations and removal of projecting window - granted.

SDNP/15/01318/LIS 7 - 8 & 9 Offham Cottages & 10 The Fish Gate, The Street, Offham - Flood protection works - granted LW/14/0712 Former Hamsey Brickworks, South Road, South Common. Outline Planning Application - Redevelopment of industrial estate - granted. The parish council are continuing to press for a pavement from this site to give access to Cooksbridge school and station.

POPPY COLLECTIONS After 30 years of stalwart collecting, John Whitley has decided to retire from doing the poppy round for The Royal British Legion in Hamsey. He will of course be a hard act to follow but if anyone could now take over this round it would be much appreciated. So if you fancy an enjoyable walk through the village on a Saturday morning in early November, please contact Caroline Featherstone on 01273 477151 or aaf-caf@usa.net

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Hamsey NEWS

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HAMSEY HERITAGE The South Downs National Park worked with Hamsey Parish Council and the Hamsey School on a project to highlight the Industrial Heritage of our parish. Initially two walks were designed to show various features of interest within the parish. Leaflets for these are available at the starting points: Cooksbridge Station and Offham Bus Shelter. As part of the route an information Board was installed at a stunning viewpoint on the Downs above the

Chalk Pit Inn. The wooden marker showing where the Greenwich Meridian passes through the parish in Hamsey Lane was another feature of the project and on May 28th an interesting information board was installed at The Chalk Pit Inn to show the history of the railway which used to take chalk from the quarry there. Why not follow one of the routes yourself this summer and find out more about the history of where you live.

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Hamsey NEWS

The development of the new path along the B2116 The B2116, Ditchling Road, runs beneath the north face of the Downs. A Public Bridleway which goes up to Blackcap meets the road at Courthouse Farm and about 800 metres east there is a footpath which goes to Cooksbridge.

To walk between the two would require walking along a fairly treacherous bit of road with no footway. There is a wide wooded area on the north side of the road. A local proposal was put forward to create a safe off-road walking route through this wooded area.

The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) spoke to residents and East Sussex County Council Highways and Rights of Way Teams. After some lengthy investigations it was confirmed that the wooded area of land fell within highway land. There were also some questions about whether badgers would be disturbed so the County Ecologist was contacted also. Finally it was agreed that a path would be cleared through the woods not involving any physical construction and avoiding badgers and the bird nesting season as is normal practice. As the work was beyond what the Highway’s maintenance schedule would carry out SDNPA agreed to carry out the works and volunteers would maintain the route.

As the land is technically highway it is not possible to create a right of way on the route. It will therefore just be a local path along the side of the road. As the work involved removing some large fallen trees some contractors (Foxhill Tree Services Ltd) were called in and they strimmed a natural line through the undergrowth to a width of 1.5 metres.

SDNPA staff put in waymarking. The Monday Group, a local volunteer group who regularly

do path work, will take on maintaining the path. Hopefully they can keep on top of the clearance in coming years but if not then they can always come back to us and request a bit of top up help from our volunteers.

Tim Squire, Rights of Way and Access Officer, South Downs National Park Authority

The new SDNPA right of way – step construction by the Monday Club

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Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2014-15 It was 3 years ago when Hamsey Parish Council decided to apply to Lewes District Council to commence work on a Neighbourhood Plan.

Our aim was fairly simple, to help ensure that the residents in our community could have more say over future development in our parish, which the Localism Act was put in place to facilitate.

The Steering Group was formed, public consultation commenced and our vision evolved, in essence it is to maintain and preserve the quality of our rural and natural environment, in this fairly peaceful part of East Sussex, whilst further improving the quality of life and opportunities for all residents .

The process at times has been frustrating and mind boggling, but due to the considerable dedication and work from members of the Steering Group and with some external support, we have been able to produce a plan which we hope the whole parish will be pleased with. During July the plan should have been passed to Lewes District Council, to start the wider consultation process, involving a full review by an independent inspector.

The process has given us a better insight into development process/issues and the massive pressure from central government to build.

There is a view held by many people (myself included) that LDC have sometimes been weak in rejecting some local area developments. As a result, important decisions have been made which are not consistent with the views and expectations of the majority of local residents.

Consequently, there is a real concern that their objections and views are not given proper consideration.

We have worked positively together with LDC and it is hoped that once ours and other local plans are in place, it will result in local people having a much clearer voice and influence in local planning issues.

Hamsey Parish Council does not currently feel that its comments regarding planning issues affecting our parish are properly considered, particularly when they go to committee.

The Parish Council lead by Ian Ginn , has requested that where a planning application affects our Parish and goes to committee, that a member of our Parish Council should have a say and vote on this committee. Currently the committee is made up of District Councillors, none of whom currently live in our Parish.

If successful this would be localism at work, we will have to wait and see!

Back to the timetable for the Neighbourhood Plan: We expect the plan to go to the independent inspector late in the summer. Every plan to date has received various recommendations of change from the inspector and only once these are to hand will we know to what extent we have to make changes. At this stage the Steering Group would have to also agree they are acceptable to move to the final stage. We are hopeful that we will be in a position to go to public referendum before the year end. I should certainly be in a position to give more definitive dates in the next issue.

I would like to end in sending on behalf of Hamsey Parish Council, the Beechwood Hall Trustees and the NP Steering Group, many thanks and farewell to Peter Mitchell and his wife Joan who in July moved to Norwich after

Hamsey NEWS

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Re c Ca rui N rer ting ow s

nearly 18 years in Cooksbridge.

Peter was instrumental in making the redevelopment of Beechwood Hall happen.

Our lovely hall is now enjoyed by many in the community from all ages and this was made possible in no small part by Peter, who also gave much help and support in the early stages of the Neighbourhood Plan which helped to set us on the right track.

Mike Dodd Chair, Hamsey Parish Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group

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Hamsey NEWS

Beechwood Hall AGM REPORT FOR THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE TRUSTEES OF BEECHWOOD HALL AND RURAL PARK (“THE HALL”) 25TH JUNE 2015 INTRODUCTION The Hall has now been operating for over 7 years. Its popularity is such that it generates a healthy operating surplus, a highly unusual outcome for a village hall. The Hall has a strong and stable management structure and support from local volunteers is evident. Many hirers come from outside the parish but the Hall is also well used by local residents.

MANAGEMENT

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

In 2014 Rose Armstrong, representing the Parish Council, and Julie McNirlin both resigned their position as trustees due to overriding personal commitments. At a Special General Meeting in February 2014 the trustees were delighted to strengthen their numbers by co-opting Kate Mc Brown as trustee to be the representative of the Parish Council.

The trust’s accounts are prepared in accordance with Charities Commission’s requirements.

The summary accounts for the financial year to the end of March 2015 have been approved by the trustees and are presented to this meeting as an attachment to this report. They will also be posted on the Charity Commission website.

At the last AGM Michael Bell, Mike Dodd, Helen Smith, Jim Edwards, Jo Hughes and Kate McBrown were all re-elected as trustees and Andrew Featherstone was re-elected Treasurer. John Drury was reappointed as Secretary. Michael Bell was appointed Chair and Mike Dodd as Vice Chair. During 2014 John Drury retired as a trustee to enable him to focus on the role as Secretary.

During 2014 the Trustees undertook a full risk assessment of the Hall and its operations and are pleased to say that they found no significant issues of concern to the safe operation of the Hall and use of the Park.

The statutory reporting requirement relating to the trust have all been complied with and reports are prepared for the Parish Council and the quarterly Hamsey News magazine.

The summary accounts for the previous year, as presented at last year’s AGM, are included in the accounts, for reference.

Receipts for the last year totalled £18,501.34 and expenditure £14,944.30 with funds held by the trust increasing from £33,616.16 to £37,173.20 Rental receipts were somewhat lower than in the previous, exceptional, year, in part due to the wedding policy change explained below.

Fund raising was again limited to Anita and Tom Walker’s jumble sale, which raised £900 in support of the Hamsey Festival. Electricity generation and export receipts totalled £501.

Expenditure on managing the hall and bookings, and providing utilities, insurance, cleaning and broadband came to £8722.

Maintenance, repairs and minor improvements cost £3,338.

Capital expenditure was limited to £1,000 spent

Hamsey NEWS

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on ramps to improve disabled access to the hall.

In addition the Parish Council provided £2,500 to resurface the veranda area. Finally, a “zero for heroes” District Council grant covered the £1,250 cost of replacing the playground fence.

Manager Jenni Toomey and Jane Baldwin for their continued tireless efforts on behalf of the Hall.

Minor adjustments were made to hall rental rates, which continue to be very competitive; moreover, for local, non-profit, collective initiatives the trustees are prepared to waive hire charges. Of the £37,173 funds held, some £12,000 will be required as a contribution to a footpath to the hall, which, as expanded on later, has just been completed. A further portion of funds (approximately £5,000) held relate to advance booking fees, leaving effective reserves slightly above the target range of £10,000 to £15,000 agreed by the trustees.

The Hall manager is ably supported by a highly competent and proactive maintenance team comprising trustee Jim Edwards who looks after the day to day care of the Hall; Jane Baldwin is the Hall cleaner.

The Trustees are extremely grateful for the highly professional and dedicated support of their treasurer Andrew Featherstone.

BOOKINGS Bookings for the Hall remained strong during the year. It is in use most days and is a popular wedding reception venue. The Parish Council, Hamsey School, St Peters Church all make use of the Hall for their functions and there is a wide variety of regular classes on offer to residents and users from outside the parish.

The “keynote” annual Hamsey Festival again proved a popular success.

During the year the trustees reviewed the rate chargeable for weekend wedding hires and concluded that it could bear an increase for bookings made for summer 2015. Additionally, the trustees agreed to limit the number of weekend wedding hires during the summer months to 2 per month thereby ensuring the Hall was available for short hires on Saturdays and Sundays.

The trustees remain indebted to the Hall

HALL MAINTENANCE

On-going maintenance was carried out to the hall, playground and park - of note was the completion of the smart resurfacing of the veranda thereby giving safe wheelchair and pushchair access to the park and playground.

It is anticipated that minor works will be approved in the coming year.

The Hall’s inventory has been regularly checked and restocked and the key holders register is up to date.

GROUNDS AND WIND TURBINE One of the key attributes of the Hall and major attraction contributing to its popularity is its pastoral and tranquil setting with open views to the South Downs. The park surrounding the Hall is regularly maintained and the trustees and grateful to the parish council who organise, arrange and pay for the cutting of grass and hedge rows and trustee Jo Hughes who kindly arranges for the maintaining the borders and trees that form the park’s boundary.

The wind turbine, whilst previously posing technical issues, is now a stable well maintained and valuable asset of the Hall providing not only a net contribution to its finances but a flagship symbol of the Hall’s “green” ethos. continued overleaf…

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Hamsey NEWS

Beechwood Hall AGM continued…

FOOTWAY ALONG BEECHWOOD LANE It is with great pleasure that the Trustees note that the footpath from the A275 to the Hall along Beechwood Lane has been completed thereby providing safe access for pedestrians from the village of Cooksbridge. As reported above the trustees have committed some £12,000 of their reserves towards the construction of the footpath, with the majority of the funding coming from the County Council, supported by the Parish Council and the South Downs National Park Authority.

CONCLUSION The Hall is a significant asset of the parish providing a focal point for community based gatherings, entertainment, fun/play and overall well-being within its population. As demonstrated by its strong financial position the Hall is effectively and professionally managed and the trustees wish to thank all those volunteers who demonstrate their support of the Hall and all it stands for by providing their time, effort and commitment free of charge. Last but not least the Trustees also wish to thank the Hamsey Parish Council for both their financial contribution and general encouragement in the furtherance of the aims of the Hall and Park.

Beechwood Lane Path A ceremony preceded the Hamsey Village Day to officially mark the opening of the Beechwood Lane Path. Mike Dodd made a very eloquent speech and we have reproduced part of a note he wrote to Peter Mitchell too as this illustrates beautifully his contribution the Parish.

“I am writing to you on behalf of Hamsey Parish Council, the Beechwood Hall Trustees and the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, to thank you for the very significant contribution that you have made to the community during your time living in Cooksbridge.

Without your energy, tenacity and patience it is unlikely that Beechwood Hall would have been redeveloped to the lovely facility which

is now used and enjoyed by many in our community, through all age groups.

Also, your support and involvement in helping to get the neighbourhood planning process underway was critical, this was much appreciated, as you helped me navigate through many of the early hurdles and issues which helped to put us on the right track.

After nearly 18 years in the Parish we would like to extend our best wishes to you and Joan for a successful move and happy future in your new home near your daughter in Norwich.

Of course the memory of your time here will remain in many who use Beechwood Hall.

Best wishes on behalf of us all.”

Hamsey NEWS

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News from Cooksbridge Station TRAIN SERVICE

TICKET VENDING MACHINE

The Station Partnership has made a strong case to GTR Southern for an hourly off-peak train service from December and we should hear in September whether or not we have been successful. However we are concerned that the recent adverse publicity the company has received for very poor performance will count against us, making GTR reluctant to take the risk of introducing a further two or three minute stop at Cooksbridge. In the meantime the Station Partnership continues to lobby strongly, with the active support of new MP, Maria Caulfield.

Recently a number of travellers have had money taken by the machine but no ticket issued, the culmination of numerous reliability problems over the last few years. Following a strong protest to GTR CEO Charles Horton, some parts of the machine have been replaced, whilst Southern continues to try to improve the IT infrastructure. Hopefully this will resolve the issues but do let us know your own experience, especially if there are further problems.

STATION PARTNERSHIP robert.baughan@btinternet.com iginn@btinternet.com dinah1307@gmail.com kfroude@btopenworld.com

STATION GARDENS The garden at the front of the station is quite mature and effort is now focussed on the entrance and verges alongside Platform 1. Two wildflower gardens have been created and numerous new shrubs planted, up to and beyond the waiting room. These will also mature over the years. The more we do, the more we need to maintain, so if you can help at one of our monthly gardening sessions, please do come along. They are at 9.30am on the last Saturday of each month and the next sessions are 25th July and 29th August.

Robert Baughan, Julie Philpott and Amy working on the new wildflower garden

Gorgeous wildflowers at Hamsey Station

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Hamsey NEWS

News from your Parish Church HAMSEY SEASON

journey to be there.

One of the great joys of summer in this beautiful part of England is the Hamsey Season – and it’s over all too quickly! Services at Hamsey Church on the first Sunday of the month from May to September are very special and if you haven’t managed to get there this year there is still Sunday August 2nd and Sunday September 6th with 8.00am Holy Communion and a 6.00 pm Evensong.

At least when the season is over for another year we still have the wonderful Hamsey Carol Service to look forward to – this year at 3pm on Sunday December 13th.

We give our very best wishes to these two couples and to all others married in Offham and Hamsey churches.

WEDDINGS

SCAFFOLDING ON OFFHAM CHURCH

There were two particularly special weddings in May this year. It’s always such a privilege to marry people with very long standing connections to the church and the wider community. Lizzie Harmer’s family has farmed in Offham for four generations. She and Christopher Sargent were married in Offham Church on May 16th with the bride arriving at church on horseback. Afterwards in continuing warm sunshine guests were able to make the short walk across to the marquee at Offham Farm A week earlier so many friends and family were also in Offham Church for Carol Thomas’ and Brian Walter’s joyful wedding. What a support they have been to each other in the loss of both their partners, Barry and Marina, after two happy marriages. Two delightful little flower girls- Carol’s young granddaughters Esmee and Lois-almost stole the show as they escorted the couple down the aisle.

Another memorable moment was the look of amazement and delight on Brian’s face as he suddenly realised there was a surprise guest in church. His brother Keith, living in New Zealand for many years, had made the long

SAD TIMES TOO There was great sadness and shock in the village when Vicki Botting’s sudden death was announced. She has been such a friend to so many in the community and was a regular worshipper at Offham Church. It was standing room only at her funeral service at the church on June 10th. We extend our deepest sympathy to Phil, Mark and Sarah. May she rest in peace.

By the time this edition of Hamsey News appears it is probable that there will be scaffolding around Offham Church. Don’t panic! There are some necessary repairs which need to be made to the guttering so we hope these can be completed over the summer.

THE CHURCH AND THE COMMUNITY As always there have been lots of nice social events organized by the church which have been very well supported by lots of friends and neighbours from our villages.

We have built up quite a reputation for the high quality of our teas and we hope you were one of the many who enjoyed them at Hamsey Festival (see the full report elsewhere in the magazine) as well as the Pop up Café in the Church Hall in May to raise funds for Earthquake Relief in Nepal. We’ll be back in action in the Church Hall on Saturday September 12. See you there!

Every June we arrange a coach trip to see a musical at Chichester Festival Theatre with a carvery supper on the return journey. This year’s choice was “Damsel in Distress” – based

Hamsey NEWS

on a story by P.G. Woodhouse with music

by Gershwin. Thirty two of us went and had a lovely day, certainly helped by the warm sunshine – perfect for our picnic lunches. We are now hoping we shall be equally lucky with the weather for the Sunday School/Toddlers Tunes combined trip to Drusillas at the beginning of the school holidays on July 27th.

(And just a reminder that Toddlers Tunes continues at 10am every Thursday during the school holidays. Older siblings welcome too.

It’s a drop in session – no need to commit to a number of sessions – so just come along when you feel like it. All details from Judith 474356)

UNSUNG HEROES Few churches have an organist who not only bakes amazing cakes for parish celebrations but is also an efficient (and willing!) hand with the dust pan and brush. We are immensely grateful

Service with a smile at Hamsey Festival

17

to Joan and her husband Roger for making Offham Church look so spick and span. When Roger has polished the floor in the church porch we really feel we can see our reflections in it. Thank you so much both of you

AND FINALLY… You have possibly heard in church and read in the church newsletter that as part of the bishop’s initiative every church in the area has copies of St. Luke’s Gospel to give away. (to read for interest, no strings attached!)

I have been surprised and delighted to see how quickly my allocation went. I have now reordered so do be in touch if you would like one. They are very well written in a clear modern translation and, importantly, absolutely free.

Derek Bastide Rector

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Hamsey NEWS

School Report As always, the last term of the school year has sped by; we have enjoyed wonderful weather and all the classes have had a great time with Forest School and lots more outdoor learning.

Other events where we have benefited from good weather, include sports day and PATINA. Sports day, as always, was great fun. This year we completed field events in the morning and based the afternoon events on the track. The children raced up the track by different means, including running, skipping, hurdling and jumping in sacks to try to reach the finishing line first. This year, Sycamore House won the shield. Sports Day was just one day in a week full of sport; the day before, all the school enjoyed activities in our skipping workshops and on the Thursday of that week members of Owls Class enjoyed a rounders tournament at Barcombe School with all the local Chailey Cluster schools. A couple of weeks later, our

Patina moving on parade

swimmers were busy doing their best to win races at the Chailey Cluster swimming gala held at Lewes Leisure Centre.

PATINA was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year for Owls Class. PATINA brings parents, teachers, children and professional artists together to create artwork for the parade and to add to its success, Miss Lewis, parents and Owls Class, working together, raised enough money to completely fund the project this year. On the parade day, the sun shone and the art work remained pristine throughout the whole event.

We have enjoyed some wonderful performances from children across the school in recent weeks. Foxes and Hedgehogs classes have entertained us with some truly memorable class assemblies, whilst our street dancers put on a very slick dance showcase last Friday. We have also enjoyed end of year

Hamsey NEWS

performances from some of our musicians including saxophone, ukulele, violin and recorder pieces.

However, the biggest well done has to go to the cast from years 4, 5 and 6 who presented Wind in the Willows at Beechwood Hall. It was a wonderful, fun production, performed with enthusiasm and polish.

We all love having a few hens here at Hamsey School and we have received some funding to help make their environment even better and buy a few more!

Perhaps we will be able to sell some eggs locally as part of a mini enterprise.

Hamsey School has had a great year and continues to have an excellent reputation in the immediate and wider community. Next year we expect to have just over 100 on roll! We are all looking forward to our Summer Break and hoping the sun keeps shining.

This is my last newsletter as I am taking up the headship of another school but I know that the school community look forward to seeing some of you at school events next year.

Helen Smith Headteacher

Sycamore House won the shield

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Sports Day

The Patina parade

20

Hamsey NEWS

Monday Afternoon Club CONGRATULATIONS TO CAROL AND BRIAN!

invited us to tea in her beautiful garden at Allington Lodge.

It was a first for the club when two long standing members, Carol Thomas and Brian Walter, gave their apologies for missing the May meeting as they were on their honeymoon! They had been married in Offham Church by the Rector on the previous Saturday, May 9th. The church was packed with family and friends all wanting to wish them well. What a happy day it was! At the Monday Club meeting we very much enjoyed the wedding cake they sent us (delicious baking Ursula!) and we sent these two very popular members of the club our very best wishes for their future happiness.

Now we are looking forward to more enjoyable Monday afternoons. Do put September 14 especially in your diary when Patsy Bailey will be making a return visit – by popular demand!

We all loved the singing and armchair dancing session she led in March and we are sure her second visit to the club will be at least as successful as her first!

RECENT MEETINGS We have had a very varied programme recently.

Michael Bird is much in demand as a national daffodil judge as well as being an exhibitor himself. He came in April to share his expertise with us - on his way to Wisley where we learnt later he had won several first prizes. Thank you so much for giving up your time Michael to give us such a fascinating afternoon. The following month a speaker from Sussex Air Ambulance Service gave an excellent presentation on the work of that vital organisation. It’s a mark of the respect with which the Air Ambulance Service is held that 30 people came to this meeting. We are all now looking forward to our July meeting when Caroline has once again generously

We are a very friendly group so if you are retired do pop along and join us on the second Monday of the month - 2pm in the Church Hall. Lifts are always available so to arrange one just contact Judith on 01273 474356 or Caroline on 01273 477151.

LEN WINGROVE We were very sad to learn that Len Wingrove, such a popular member of the club had passed away. He had been in ill health for some time and had moved from Cooksbridge to a Nursing Home in Uckfield.His funeral service at the Downs Crematorium was taken by the Rector.

Len will be much missed -Jo Hughes wrote a moving poem which the Rector read at the funeral. Len and Jo had adjoining allotments and as Jo movingly wrote, “who will tell me now what to plant”.

Judith Bastide

Litter Picks Tamsyn d’Arienzo and Robert Baughan have taken on the roles of organising regular litter picks in the Parish. These will take place on the following dates: 2nd Saturday of Jan, April, July and November, 9.30 at Beechwood Hall. Equipment is provided and there will be teas afterwards.

Please get involved if you can, it really makes a difference to our environment.

Hamsey NEWS

21

A View from a Basket A DOG’S EYE VIEW OF COOKSBRIDGE, OFFHAM AND HAMSEY

by Ralph (The Boy in a Dog Suit) Woof!!!! Which translated to human is; hi my name is Ralph I am a canine citizen of Cooksbridge and I have been appointed the voice canine community by my pack.

I have not lived here long, just over a year, and there are many things I love like walks at Beechwood, Sunday afternoons in the Rainbow and the sexy whippet that I see out on walks (WOOF). However a few serious matters have been drawn to my attention, giving those of my ilk a bad name and another which is just woofing outrageous!

First of all dog poo, yes dog poo! I just need to make myself clear about dog poo; it must be picked up! My human is well trained she always has poo bags in her pocket; she picks up after me and disposes of it responsibly. It is a dirty job but someone’s got to do it, I can’t with paws! I was disgusted to see dog poo by the school, my friends the children could become unwell with round worm if dog poo is left for them to tread in. I have also noticed that Beechwood has a lot of dog poo; bags are provided and there is a special bin, so there are no excuses for picking up your dog’s poo. I was also unhappy to see that there is a lot of dog poo on the nice new path to the park. Please make sure your human cleans up! I have talked enough poo let’s talk sheep.

I love lamb as much as the next dog, however my human is strict about my appetites, she will not let me catch my own and purchases my lamb from the butcher. I was upset to find out about the attacks on Farmer Harmers sheep and need to express that; dogs must be kept on leads near livestock. This really isn’t rocket science; I am a dog and comprehend the importance of humans taking responsibility for their hounds. My human keeps me on

a lead unless she is sure there are no sheep, she told me that she is accountable for my wellbeing and I could be shot if I worried sheep. Equally important is the welfare of the sheep, they die of fright and a pregnant ewe can miscarry her lamb; very sad. I will woof it again, keep your dogs on leads near life stock!

Now for the outrage! Dogs have recently been poisoned in Brighton, Hove and Hailsham.

Cocktail sausages laced with slug pellets have been left for dogs to eat. There have been cases of poisoning reported at the vet in Lewes and one dog died. Please be keeping an eye open for anything suspicious and report it. I have also been made aware of dog thefts, another reason to keep dogs on leads. It is a good idea not to tie your dog up outside shops while you do your shopping and leave it at home. Dogs have also been taken from gardens so please make sure gardens are secure.

If any other canine, feline, furred or scaled residents of Hamsey Parish would like to have a voice please email the editor and we will include this in the next edition. WOOF!

Hamsey Village Festival 22

Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey festival goers were blessed with a beautiful day to kick back and relax with friends and neighbours in Beechwood Hall & Rural Park on Saturday 11th July 2015.

The new pavement at Beechwood Lane was officially opened at 13.30 by original trustee and the driving force behind the hall itself, Peter Mitchell, presented by Councillor Mike Dodd.

Locals poured into the field to submit entries for Jane Baldwin’s produce stall, for the photo competitions and to sign up for the events whilst the rest of us headed for the lovely teas and cakes on offer in the hall from Judith Bastide, Caroline Featherstone and team from Offham Church.

This year in the hall we were lucky to have 2 specially produced projected presentations from Sue Rowland showing Hamsey Past and Present, also a selection of fascinating old pictures across many eras of our parish. These

pictures proved popular with people in the hall having teas and cakes, with many reminiscing about old times and taken aback by the dramatic landscape changes documented there.

The Rainbow Inn had a successful day showcasing the newly-launched bbq, recently relaunched at Cooksbridge’s village pub. Chef Mark (affectionately as Marco to the pub locals) prepared handmade burgers, chicken, vegetable skewers with salads and was glad to be in the sunshine meeting people and showcasing his wares.

The friendly team at the bhaji stall Mother Bhumi were popular on the day with their vegetarian pakoras with delicious sauces.

one, two, three…pull!

The Tug of War was a show-stopper, with small children being launched horizontally through the air whilst adults grimaced and dug their heels in and sheer determination seemed to out-pull muscles alone.

Thanks to Justin Harmer for loaning the rope again.

Hamsey NEWS

23

Jane’s Produce Competition was inundated with entries, a great success for a first-yearevent. Steve Baldwin kindly judged and they couldn’t have managed it so successfully without Lisa Murphy.

Wendy Darby was in a class of her own and is also a winner with a spectacular array of home grown produce beautifully presented together

WINNERS WERE:

7 Longest Bean this was a hard one so we’ll just say that Jodie, Jim & Moira all did exceptionally well in their bean propagation!

Class 1 Miniature Garden in a Tray 1st prize: Kyon; 2nd prize: James 2 Animal or Insect made out of Flowers, Veg or Fruit Two delightful brothers took 1st and second, unfortunately we do not have their names (let us know and we’ll namecheck them in the next issue!). Tino d’Arienzo came 3rd.

3 A small flower arrangement Sylvie d’Arienzo won this class 4 A drawing or painting of your favourite flower, fruit or vegetable was won by Helena

8 the biggest vegetable Jodie won with her spectacular cucumber 9 Potatoes or other root veg - at least 5 Jim came first with Jodie and Angie providing hot competition 10 A cake with an unusual ingredient Angie won with her Earl Grey cake and Noah, Maisie and Luke Curran came 2nd with their courgette buns. 3rd place went to Jill Hardy with her Grenadine Cake featuring passion fruit.

5 A flower arrangement 1st prize went to Jill Hardy, 2nd to Jodie and 3rd to Angie

11 A pot of jam This was won by Vera Duckworth and her very nice jam. We suspect Moira may have been involved…

6 Unusual, exotic or just plain weird vegetable Moira won this class

12 A jar of Chutney was won by Phyllis and her delicious chutney.

The Rural Vintner: Sam presented 3 gorgeous wines for tasting. Festival goers enjoyed his samples washed down with Sam’s seemingly infinite wine knowledge. Delicious and unusual wines at fantastic value, it was no

wonder that the bottles sold well. If you missed the festival you can find Sam at The Rural Vintner, Trading Boundaries near Fletching most days and treat yourself to some wine that way.

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Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey Village Festival

The Dog Show was enjoyed by all. We are very grateful to Shirley Whitley and Sally Miller aka Cruella Deville for being true stars in our most popular event.

DOG SHOW Prizes were awarded to…

Cute pup Matilda with owner Rupert

CUTEST PUP 1st Matilda, with Rupert 2nd, Krampusz, who came with Emese 3rd Leo, owners are Ben and Iva 4th Sparrow, with Tim and Alice

WAGGIEST TAIL

Lindsey Bell and Annie

1st Leela, owner is Anousha 2nd Phoebe, who came with Archie 3rd Pippa, owner is Emma 4th Zelli, who came with Margaret Hunt

BEST TRICK 1st Krampusz, with Emese 2nd Teddy Four Paws, with Jodi 3rd Charlie, with Julie 4th Toby, with Riley Miller

BEST OLD DOG 1st Woody, with Kara 2nd Teddy Four Paws, brought by Jodie 3rd Frank, owner is Natalie 4th Pippin, who came with Jill Hardy (Grandmother of the winning Puppy)

THE DOG THE JUDGE WOULD MOST LIKE TO TAKE HOME 1st Polly, belonging to Amy 2nd Snow White, owner is Sandra 3rd May 4th Pippa, owner is Jane.

Hamsey NEWS

25

Hamsey Village Festival

The Moroccan tent which has become iconic of the festival in recent years was kindly provided

by Rose Armstrong from Coombe Place. Many thanks to Paul Wren, Sean Armstrong, Tom and Harry Wren for the sterling job they did it in delivering the enormous tent, putting it together and on Tuesday for taking it down.

The tent offered welcome shade on the day and was the perfect venue for the drumming workshop, storytelling and parachute games kindly presented by Dinah and enjoyed by all.

The parachute games ended up spilling out across the field and were enjoyed by many excited children.

East Sussex Dancers with Alex Skinner Steve Baldwin on duty at the competition tent

No Hamsey Festival is complete without Welly Wanging and Stu Curran did us proud as ever!

Categories were done by welly size rather than age for fairness so winners were: XS Esther brown S Oscar brown M Kai Taylor L Kieron porter XL Joel Herbert

welly wang!

Hamsey Village Festival 26

Hamsey NEWS

FOOTBALL The races didn’t go ahead this year as most of the sign-ups were already playing football, next year it would probably be worth running them at separate times. The football itself was a big hit, with both teams playing some great sport and showing true sportsmanship.

Players registered included: Noah Curran, Thor Clifford-Wilson, George Goodyer, Jim Goodyer, Luca d’Arienzo, Tino d’Arienzo, Kit Keelin, Cameron Lythe, Alfie Langran, Archie Moffal, Orion, Tom Waters, Ameya E-S, Kara McBrown, Dante Maguire, Aaden, Sacha, Daniel, Bobby, Sam, Joseph Andrews and Jude.

Not all played and there were probably a few extras who joined it too!

PHOTO COMP Congratulations to the winner of the Hamsey Past photo competition Jodi Crispin, who won a meal for 2 with wine at The Rainbow. The winner of the Hamsey Now photo competition was Marion Hughes, who won a meal for 2 and wine at The Blacksmiths Arms. Runners ups were Julie Walrond who won a digital photo frame and Kate Raath who won a selfie-stick!

Thank you everyone who shared their beautiful photos and to Andy from Photography Firm, for judging. Thanks to The Rainbow and The Blacksmiths for donating the top prizes.

Hamsey School volunteers ensured nobody went thirsty on the day, with Pimms featuring highly on their best sellers list and even their own chill out sofa.

Festival organiser Tamsyn d’Arienzo with Sylvie & Ronnie chatting to hall treasurer Andrew Featherstone

Former festival organisers Kevin and Mary enjoying the day

Sunshine & Ice Creams

Hamsey NEWS

Hamsey Village Festival 27

bands

Singer and songwriter Hanna

The main event was, of course, the music. This year we had a full day of music and bands, starting with Dende, the Samba style band that were impossible to stand still to. Next was local singer songwriter Hanna, whose mesmerising set had everyone swooning over her beautiful voice. Star Fish Youth bands were next up with some amazing young talent wowing the audience and northern soul band, Cowbell were a great finale to the live music with people across the field toe-tapping in time to their tunes.

Steve and Elliot Starfish

Dende get everyone dancing

thank you

RAFFLE

The raffle raised £52 for St Peter and St James hospice, Chailey. Thanks to The Chalkpit Inn for the bottle of champagne, to Suzi Broad for her therapy voucher and for all the other prizes donated.

A big thank you has to go out to my fellow organisers: Kirsty Curran, Jane Baldwin, Moira Blake, Jane Disney (on her birthday!), Ailsa Suttie and Wes Kent for their ideas, contacts and energy in making it a great day. Special thanks go to Jane Baldwin and Kirsty for helping to sort the rubbish and make the hall and field clean again the next day. More people helped in some way than I could list here, thank you to you all.

2016: A few volunteers have kindly come forward already to help make next year’s festival happen. More people are needed if we are to enjoy another Hamsey Festival again next year, so please do come forward if you might enjoy either planning, helping on the day or helping to clean up the following day. Please contact Lucy Ward on Lucy_Jane_Ward@yahoo.com.

Kirsty raises a glass to the Hamsey Festival

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Hamsey NEWS

Sporty Hamsey We’re sure you’ll have noticed a lot of energetic early morning activity on the streets and lanes of Hamsey, in particular, the dedicated runners who were entered in this year’s London Marathon. Jane Taylor had this to say: One morning in October 2014, a magazine dropped through my letterbox. It was from the Virgin London Marathon with the words “You’re In” emblazoned across the front. It was at that point that I started to panic. Was I happy? Was I terrified? A bit of both really.

And so began 4 long, cold, rainy and windy months of training for this epic 26.2 miles.

Dragging myself out of bed at stupid o’clock to run and run and run and run........

I was not alone in this insanity. It may not be common knowledge but the glorious village of ‘Cooksbridge City’ - as we locals like to call it, is host to many runners. My regular running buddies, Jane Disney, Jane Baldwin and Kirsty Curran would join me occasionally on my

training missions. Mark Wilson and Robert Baughan could also be spotted on a Sunday morning pounding the roads around us, clocking up the miles as they too were running the London Marathon.

When the actual day came, I was a bag of nerves. It was cold and a bit drizzly - perfect marathon conditions so everyone told me.

Crossing the start line surrounded by a 6 ft Ostrich and a man flipping pancakes in a world record attempt was a surreal moment.

But I had a big smile on my face and I don’t think I stopped grinning until Mile 24.

The course was a wall of noise - cheers, banners and smiles. Good luck signs were everywhere and I lost count of how many people called my name or offered me booze or food just to keep me running. My own ‘support team’ were amazing. The ‘Janes’ popped up at mile 9 and Jane D cheekily ran with me for some time! The Curran family

Hamsey NEWS

(with banner) greeted me at Mile 13 and 23.

And my own family were there with much needed hugs at Canary Wharf.

I finished down that iconic route of the Mall with Buckingham Palace in the background in 4hrs 11 mins feeling, if not looking like a super athlete. I was exhausted but the happiest I have felt in a long time. And if someone gave me a place for next year, I would snap it up and start hunting for my Ostrich outfit.

Joining Jane was Robert Baughan who said that “having taken up marathon running last year at the age of 50, I was pleased to complete the course and recorded a time of 05 hours and 07 minutes. I took part to raise money for The Railway Children charity and managed, through sponsorship, to raise £2000 in total for the charity”.

Well done to all who took part and to their loyal supporters. Please let us know if you are taking part in anything exciting and let’s get Hamsey behind you!

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Don’t become a victim of fraudsters 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.

WHAT DO I DO IF I THINK SOMEONE I KNOW HAS BEEN A VICTIM OF FRAUD? If you, or someone you know might be vulnerable to fraud/scams, please contact Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk

Crochet Classes There is a lot of local crafting going on and we are keen to highlight this where we can. Please do let us know if you are involved in making lovely things and would like them featured in future editions of the News. Our co-editor Lucy Jane has been busy too, she says: ‘At the pop up cafe to raise funds for Naples the conversation turned to crochet and how some of the ladies of the parish would like to learn or improve their crochet skills. I am pleased to announce that I have started crochet workshops at Abigail’s Drapery. Classes are for all abilities. Commission bespoke pieces are also available. For dates and times call Abigail on 01273 472211 or call by the shop at 19 High Street, Lewes BN7 2LN.

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Hamsey NEWS

Forthcoming Events Monday 10 August 2 pm

Monday Afternoon Club Offham Church Hall Tea and Chat

Thursday 10 September 7.15pm

Hamsey parish council meeting Beechwood Hall

Tuesday 11th August 10am-12pm

Monday 14 September 2pm

for families of children 0-5 and their siblings Chailey Children’s Centre Chailey School, Mill Lane, Chailey.

Offham Church Hall Patsy Bailey: Keeping Fit and Healthy

Saturday 12 September 2-4.30pm

Coffee Morning

Free activities and events

Pop Up Café

in Offham Church Hall: Delicious Homemade Teas

Monday Afternoon Club

Saturday 19 September 10am-12noon in aid of MacMillan Cancer Relief Fund Offham Church Hall

Sunday 11 October 10.30am

Harvest Festival Offham Church

Monday 12 October 2pm .com

Insulated Conservatory Roofs

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Monday Afternoon Club Offham Church Hall Tom Walker: The “Other” Monday Club

Friday 16 October 7.30pm

Harvest Supper

Offham Church Hall

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Hamsey NEWS

Regular Events Offham Church Hall Details from Judith 01273 474356 Beechwood Hall Details from Jenni 07762 118985

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

Monday mornings at Beechwood Hall

Book Beechwood Hall 07762 118985

the Short Yang Form and Qi Gong exercises.

Report noise pollution 01273 484340

Tai Chi Chuan

Monday mornings at Beechwood Hall

To report fly tipping 01273 484999

Monday evenings at Beechwood Hall

Police (non emergency) 101 or 0845 60 70 999

Tuesday mornings at Beechwood Hall

Crimestoppers 0800 555111 Use this number to provide anonymous information about crime or criminals and you may get a reward

Yoga with Robin Dance classes

Yoga with Lisa

Tuesday evenings at Beechwood Hall

Choir practice

new members always welcome

Wednesday mornings at Beechwood Hall

British Transport Police 0800 405040

Wednesday Evenings at Beechwood Hall

Age UK 0800 169 6565

Wednesday Evenings at Beechwood Hall

Help the Aged 0808 800 6565

Wednesday Evenings in Offham Church Hall

Dental helpline 01273 403546

Katie’s keep fit class Yoga with Paul

Acro Yoga with Lula Pilates

at 7 30pm Thursday Mornings in Offham Church Hall

Toddler Tunes 10am

Thursday Mornings at Beechwood Hall

Yoga with Lisa

Friday Mornings at Beechwood hall

Katie’s keep fit classes

Trading standards 01323 418200 trading.standards@eastsussexcc.gov.uk Hamsey CP School 01273 400370 Rev. Derek Bastide 01273 474356 www.offhamwithhamsey.org.uk

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Hamsey NEWS

Beechwood - a Community Hall…

SO HOW DO WE GET THE COMMUNITY TO USE IT? Hall trustees sometimes hear residents say – “why isn’t there anything on at the hall that we can go to?”

Well there are classes at the hall every day ranging from singing and dancing to yoga and keep fit and all will welcome you along.

In the past, there have been some really well attended music and theatre evenings at the hall but it has become difficult to find anyone who wants to organise these and even when they are provided, difficult to sell the tickets.

When hall trustees were offered the chance to host a musical evening with Australian singer Beck Sian and acclaimed guitarist Jonathan Kershaw, they jumped at it. Unfortunately there were no offers to take on the organisation and it fell to the hall manager to sort the arrangements and try to sell enough tickets to make it worthwhile. The PTA ran a bar but couldn’t drum up many ticket sales and only just managed to cover their costs. Beck and Jonathan absolutely loved the venue and kindly split the few sales we did make, so that a little

profit went towards the hall and they probably covered their fuel for getting to us. But what a shame. Those who came were treated to an amazing selection of tunes from Beck’s brilliant rendition of her cousin Kate’s Wuthering Heights to the dramatic music from Phantom of the Opera and everything from folk to heavy rock in between. With tickets at just £8 and parking free what’s stopping you?

Is there a resident, couple or group of friends who would like to organise something in the hall and feel they might get support from the community? Could be a band or a barn dance.

Maybe there are some budding Thespians out there – what about an am-dram group or Christmas pantomime? Pop up coffee shop once a month, computer classes for beginners or an art club to meet and paint together.

If you have any bright ideas for using the hall to bring members of the community together then don’t be shy. In the first instance call the hall manager on 07762 118985 or email: clerk@hamsey.net. We’d love to hear from you.

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