EAST GRINSTEAD ISSUE 6 MARCH 2025

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

The Town Crier Serving the communities of East Grinstead, Forest Row, Hartfield, Ashurst Wood, Lingfield, Dormansland, Crawley Down, Felbridge, Newchapel and the surrounding areas

Issue 6 March 2025

Let’s help one another to do well and prosper 1

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Welcome to the March 2025 Issue of the Town Crier !

The cover photograph is by our resident genius with a camera, East Grinstead photographer, Russell Prain.

Submit!

Things are building nicely and the contributions this month from the movers and shakers of our communities have enabled us to create between us the best issue yet of our community magazine.

The door is now wide open for your submissions for the April issue.

Here’s a rough guide to the type of features we are looking for: •

So, very well done to everyone who has played a part in putting this issue together!

I think you will find, dear reader, that the community has provided a varied, interesting and absorbing read.

•

• • • • • •

And just to briefly reiterate some Town Crier policies: If you are a charity or any form of not-for-profit group, club or enterprise you will not be charged for being promoted in this magazine.

If you are a small local business you can have one advertorial feature equivalent to a full page of advertising free of charge so as to make yourself known to our readers.

Information, news, updates, announcements about your club, society, charity, good cause, art, event, community activity, show, service or small local business.

Promote yourself as an artist (photographer, painter, sculptor, band, musician, composer, film-maker, cartoonist etc.)

Healthy wholesome organic recipes.

Humour and satire Poetry and verse Book and film reviews Health tips and life hacks Commended and Recommended - sing the praises of someone who has provided an exemplary product or service.

And I’m sure there are many other topics I haven’t thought of so be daring, be creative!

Get in touch. Email: egtowncrier@gmail.com

In addition to the above, if you are a local small business, we now provide a limited amount of space for you to advertise at very reasonable rates that amount to about £10 or less per week for a quarter page! And when you pay for advertising, you are helping our effort to help and support the good-will endeavours of the community.

Columnists

I’m very pleased to acknowledge those who have kindly agreed to contribute a column of tips and advice each month for the general edification and enlightenment of the community.

And to ensure you get maximum value for your ad, while we are running a paid ad for one business selling a particular product or service, we will not take a paid ad for a competitor selling the same product or service.

Benefactors

On top of that, we’ve made paid advertising very affordable. To view policies and prices in more detail, go to the website here

Sponsors

Benefactors are those who have helped keep the Town Crier show on the road by making a voluntary donation. Their help is very much appreciated. Thank you!

Sponsors are those who support the Town Crier through paid advertising.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

CONTENTS

New feature: click the title to go straight to the page.

East Grinstead Town Mayor Steve Ody on Community Spirit page 4 Christians Against Poverty page 6 Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir page 7 Well Healthy - Samantha Ford’s Column page 8 Time Travel Tuesdays - Alison Earnshaw’s Column page 10 A Song For Camelot page 12 Body Phonics - Sally Hansen’s column page 13 The We Grow column page 14 The International College of Oriental Medicine page 15 Commended and Recommended -The Flint Owl page 17 East Grinstead in Bloom page 18 The Magic of Pi - Helen Chisholm’s column page 19 How we can all get rich and enslave the planet page 20 Abigail’s Party - The Ace Theatre Company page 22 The Mug Tree page 25 The How to Basically column page 26 Kidical Mass page 27 Find Peace and Renewal at Claridge House page 28 The Breathing Room - Judith Rayner’s Column page 29

Community First Responders page 30 Irish Dancers head for World Championships page 31 What Do French People Really Eat? Dominique Cook’s column page 32 Be Beautiful! Sarah Dell’s column page 33 Have you considered playing Lawn Bowls? page 34 Go Walking! Artist Gill Bustamante’s column page 35 What to Forage in March page 36

From the Versailles Palace to the East Grinstead Bookshop page 37 The Joy of Learning French page 38 Looking for Talent in our area - Feelgood Radio page 39

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Welcoming Spring and Celebrating Community Spirit East Grinstead’s Mayor, Steve Ody, shares his thoughts on a vibrant February On a lighter note, the Mayoress and I put my As we step into spring, we general knowledge to the test at the Soroptimists welcome not just the long- Quiz and was delighted to come in second place – awaited sunshine but also the renewed energy that proof that friendly competition is alive and well in comes with it.

East Grinstead! The Soroptimists champion the lives of girls and women all over the world, so After what felt like an extended winter, it’s ladies, if you would like more information on how wonderful to see our town bursting into life with you can join them, here’s a link - https://sigbi.org/ events, community gatherings, and a shared spirit east-grinstead/ of optimism.

February kicked off with a fantastic Volunteer Event at Chequer Mead, organised by Community People (formerly MSVA). The event was an incredible showcase of the generosity and dedication of our local organisations, all looking to connect with potential volunteers. It was heartening to see so many people keen to give their time and talents to the community. A town like ours thrives on the efforts of volunteers, and this event was a perfect reminder of just how many amazing people we have in East Grinstead.

Another highlight of the month was another visit to I also took the opportunity to visit the beautiful Bluebell Railway at Sheffield Park. This historic the Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club. gem is a real asset to our town, and I was particularly interested to hear about their exciting This group, made up of extraordinary individuals plans to celebrate Railway 200, the 200th anniverfrom East Grinstead and surrounding villages, sary of the birth of modern railway. offers a wonderful opportunity to ‘pull up a sandbag’ and enjoy camaraderie over breakfast. If It’s a thrilling milestone, and I can’t wait to see you know a veteran who might benefit from joining, please do encourage them to come along – what they have in store for the summer. It includes it’s a warm and welcoming space where stories are inviting children to see how steam trains work, see the huge engines up close and enjoy the Railway. shared, and friendships are strengthened. https:// afvbc.com/club/east-grinstead-armed-forcesFinally, I had the honour of officially opening the veterans-breakfast-club new home for Chappell & Rice Funeral Directors.

It’s wonderful to see a business so committed to I also had the honour of speaking at a South East staying in East Grinstead and continuing to support Water Conference on Vulnerable Clients, where I our community during important moments in our shared insights about our wonderful town. It’s lives. always a privilege to champion East Grinstead and highlight what makes our community so special.

So to finish, as we embrace the warmer months ahead, I look forward to more opportunities to Sports enthusiasts in the town are well-served by celebrate and support our town in the last 2 months the fantastic work of the East Grinstead Sports of my Mayoral term.

Council, and I had the pleasure of attending one of their recent meetings. Their efforts in supporting Whether you’re volunteering, participating in local and promoting local sport are invaluable, helping to events, or simply enjoying the sunshine, let’s make keep our town active and engaged.

2025 one to remember!

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Waste not want not - five tips to reduce food waste and save We can all make a difference to our planet by reducing the amount of food we throw out, and with Food Waste Action Week underway this month, we at Christians Against Poverty (CAP) want to offer some practical tips to help.

By reducing food waste, you may be able to save money as well as have a positive impact in your home and community.

1. Organise your food Try organising your food storage so that you can easily find what food you have available to use.

Decanting pantry items like flour and pasta into clear jars labelled with their use-by dates will make it easier to see what you have and when it needs to be used by (you could re-use old coffee jars to save money). Arrange food items by expiry date, with the shorter shelf-life items at the front – this will enable you to use up the ingredients in your meals before they go out of date.

5. Give away leftovers Leftovers don’t need to be wasted – why not give any surplus food to a friend or neighbour that you know may benefit from receiving food parcels or a home cooked meal? You could also consider donating any tinned/non-fresh food to the local Foodbank.

If you’re struggling to afford groceries visit capuk.org/help to see what free services are available in your area. CAP is a debt help charity that offers holistic, face-to-face support, money coaching, life skills groups and job clubs.

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more. Visit capuk.org to find out more or contact fionastraszynski@capuk.org, your local debt coach for an informal chat.

2. Buy what you’ll use Although it can sometimes be cheaper to buy in bulk, it may only prove economical if you actually use all the food. So, if you do buy in bulk, plan a few recipes first to make sure you’re using up the ingredients – and freeze any leftovers.

3. Do a regular stock-check Try and get in the habit of looking through your food cupboards every week to check expiry dates and items that have run out or are getting low. You might find it helpful to keep a record in a notebook, or a simple list stuck on the fridge that you can refer to – find a method that works best for you.

4. Plan for the week Before you go shopping, plan your meals in advance, and work out exactly what you need to buy.

Make a shopping list and stick to it. This reduces the chance of overspending and restricts potential food waste. You could keep a diary or notebook just for meal planning and shopping lists, or if you use an app on your phone, you could also add links to recipes and include notes of any ingredients you need.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir Greetings to one and all with hopeful signs of Spring in the garden as the snowdrops form their drifts of white heads and the daffodils push up towards the sky waiting, like us, for warmer days to come.

The past month saw the choir holding their not only Crawley Down village itself but from many Annual General Meeting on February 17th at the of the other local villages - Copthorne, Felbridge, usual venue of The Haven Centre in Crawley Down. Turners Hill and Worth for example , as well as Six of the seven committee members were from East Grinstead, Pound Hill and from Horley unanimously voted back in, the seventh having too. stepped down for personal reasons after many years of serving as a valued committee member as We sing a broad range of music. New pieces we are practising for this concert include “Viva La well as Treasurer in the past.

Vida” by Coldplay and “I Say a Little Prayer”, a hit The choir is fortunate indeed to have such a for both Dionne Warwick and Aretha Franklin. dedicated group of ladies willing to give of their Why not join us? time and expertise to keep the choir running smoothly. Like the proverbial swan, we ostensibly See our website for further details: crawleydownladieschoir.co.uk glide serenely along whilst underneath we are paddling furiously making things happen.

Following the AGM we finished the evening with a social, everyone brought something to eat and drink whilst having a good old natter. A chance for informality and for friendships to flourish.

Two light-hearted quizzes were also provided which as usual exercised our brains somewhat but proved very popular and entertaining. The annual choir meal is currently at the planning stage.

We continue to practise on Monday evenings at 7.30pm in the Birch Room at The Haven Centre for our Summer concert there in the Dorothy Hatswell hall which will take place on Saturday June 14th. More detail to follow as and when the finer points are decided. So, as they say, “Watch This Space”.

As ever, we offer a warm and friendly welcome to new members, both alto and soprano voices. Our members come from 7

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Well Healthy

Helping you live a freer, healthier life

This month, Samantha Ford of Unique Welllth presents:

Boost Your Mood: Food & Lifestyle Upgrades for a Happier You The connection between food and physical health is well known, but did you know that what you eat can significantly impact your mood too? It’s something people understood centuries ago—back in medieval times, quince, dates, and elderflowers were popular remedies for lifting the spirits, while lettuce and chicory w ere used as natural tranquillisers. Modern science has now caught up, confirming that certain foods can positively (or negatively) affect mental well-being. Nutrition plays a vital role in managing stress, anxiety, and low moods, and by making a few targeted changes, you can support your emotional health in a natural, sustainable way.

Stress, Mood, and the Power of Nutrition dramatically improve your sleep quality, helping I specialise in stress management and I see the you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on impact of poor lifestyle habits every day. Stress the day. doesn’t just affect your mind—it drains your energy, disrupts your sleep, and can leave you stuck Caffeine and sugar late in the day can disrupt sleep in an endless cycle of fatigue and emotional highs cycles, while foods rich in tryptophan—such as and lows. chicken, cheese, tuna, tofu, eggs, nuts, seeds, and milk—can help support melatonin production for a What you eat is one of the simplest but most better night’s rest. Establishing a calming evening powerful tools you have to break free from this routine, reducing screen time before bed, and cycle. Certain foods can help regulate stress managing stress through relaxation techniques can hormones, boost serotonin levels, and provide all make a significant difference. steady, lasting energy to help you feel more balanced and in control. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and stimulants can amplify Small Changes, Big Impact stress and mood swings.

Managing anxiety, stress, and mood disorders is complex, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

The Sleep Connection However, by making small but intentional shifts in your diet and lifestyle, you can begin to take back With World Sleep Day on March 14th, it’s the control of your emotional and physical well-being. perfect time to talk about another key factor in mood management—sleep. Poor sleep is a major contributor to stress and low mood, creating a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. The good news? Simple diet and lifestyle changes can Continued on next page 8

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Samantha Ford - continued from previous page

I believe small, positive That’s why I’ve put together my ‘Boost Your changes start Mood: Food & Lifestyle Upgrades to Lift Your with a converSpirits!’ guide. Inside, we start with a check-in to sation — and see where you are now. We’ll explore food, exercise, and sleep as I mentioned above and how to I’d love to know what make small changes to improve them. works for you!

This guide is designed to help you take the first A Special Spring Bonus just for my readers…. steps in supporting your mood through lifestyle With spring in the air, now is the perfect time to changes. But if you’ve ever tried making changes think about your garden. Growing your own food on your own, you’ll know that having the knowledge is only part of the puzzle—putting it into can be incredibly rewarding, both for your health and your mood! As a bonus, I’ve partnered practice is where real transformation happens. with Budget Seeds to offer a 10% discount on their range of seeds—so you can start growing your So here’s where it gets fun… own nutritious, mood-boosting foods or flowers.

If you want to get your hands on this feel-good guide, I’m inviting you to play along: Get your discount here: www.uniquewellth.coach/ budgetseeds Mood-Boosting Bingo!

Simply drop an email to me samantha@uniquewellth.coach and tell me Let’s make this March one of nourishment, energy, and brighter moods.

ONE food or drink that always makes you feel better when you're having a low day. I’ll send you the guide as a thank-you, along with a bonus tip Looking forward to hearing from you! tailored to your answer!

Samantha Registered Health & Wellness Coach You’ll also be added to my Thriving Times community, where you’ll get expert insights, samantha@uniquewellth.coach www.uniquewellth.coach practical tips, and motivation to help you take control of your well-being.

P.S. Your favourite food tip might even inspire my next guide... so don’t be shy, share away!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL DETAILS 9

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Time Travel Tuesdays… No Tardis Required!

Alison Earnshaw enjoys an out-of-season visit to Standen House & Gardens on the outskirts of East Grinstead.

In the current economic climate, a National Trust annual membership subscription is deemed a ‘considered purchase’! So this year I’ve adopted the ‘Good Winter Boots’ theory of ‘cost per wearing’ and re-applied it to the National Trust as ‘cost per visit’.

past. You can let your eye drift over the William Morris wallpaper or the family paintings adorning the walls in various rooms… and if you want to explore any particular point of interest in more depth, the staff and guides know their stuff and are only too pleased to answer any questions.

Following the ‘cost per visit’ principle, Standen is perfectly located to lend itself to regular short visits of an hour or two from the vicinity of East Grinstead, with maximum time-travel escapism benefits to be gleaned when it’s quieter with fewer visitors.

As a result, I’m making a bit more effort to make shorter but more frequent local excursions, ensuring the best possible value and enjoyment of my yearly For example, the other day I incorporated popping membership payment. in at Standen as part of a round trip to Sainsburys.

An overcast and rather dreary Tuesday morning and A National Trust destination as the focus of a full I was first to pull in at the almost deserted car-park, day’s outing to some of the major properties such as receiving the warmest of welcomes from the Knole or Chartwell is always a good call and friendly gate duty staff. I’d read on the National certainly merits an entire day, especially in more Trust website that Exmoor ponies had been in clement weather. residence for a month or two (I assume in the grounds, not the house, what would Poirot have had I must sheepishly admit that East Grinstead’s relato say about that!). When I enquired about them, it tively ‘bijou’ property of Standen House (almost was explained that the equines in question had done any property is bijou compared to Knole!) wasn’t such a splendid job of cropping the overgrown grass really on my radar for several years after I moved and scrub in their paddock that they’d been stood here. As so often with things in life that are down from their duties and moved on to fresh fields conveniently always right there, close by, I just requiring their eco-friendly attentions elsewhere! didn’t get around to it… but once I finally did, wow, Hopefully they’ll make a return visit to Standen what a local gem, right on the doorstep! I’ve been a later in the year! fan ever since!

Plenty of other treats to see on the property… The Standen House is a rather different experience to the gardens were originally designed to flow as a set of National Trust’s grander properties; it was built as a linking outdoor rooms and that Tuesday I had them family home (quite a posh family I’ll grant you!) almost to myself. The atmosphere was tranquil, the and still retains that more informal atmosphere. The overall colour palette grey-green, with more grey rooms inside the house have a 1920s-1930s than green at this time of year. Nevertheless, the between-the-wars vibe to them and for me that’s a promise of Spring was evident, with drifts of particular form of escapism, best experienced as if snowdrops and tiny amethyst-coloured miniature dipping into an Agatha Christie novel or a game of iris. I became aware that no background traffic noise Cluedo. I can imagine Poirot coming to stay here as was audible, just nature to listen to with peaceful a guest at a weekend house party and ending up views opening out in every direction. There was having to unravel an intricate murder mystery! He birdsong and somewhere nearby the eerie drumming should certainly keep a wary eye out for Mrs of a woodpecker.

Peacock with the Candlestick in the Conservatory or Colonel Mustard with the Lead Piping in the A few spots of rain necessitated a strategic retreat to Billiard Room! the Barn Café, Standen’s refreshment hub. One or two other out-of-season visitors were there by now Wandering from room to room at Standen, the in the lofty, raftered yet cosy building; the menu has furnishings, décor and household items are plenty of coffees, cakes and scones and if it hadn’t recognisably similar to what we use in the present been for the Sainsburys shop I’d planned for later day...yet different enough to facilitate a bit of that morning I’d have enjoyed trying one of their time-travel escapism, inviting speculation about ‘Soup of the Day’ light lunches. who would have seen or owned or used them in the 10

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

NoTardis Required - continued from previous My short visit left me feeling more uplifted than any amount of retail therapy or doom-scrolling could have done. Even better, I know I can build a repeat into my day, just for a short while, whenever I feel like a bit of diverting and engaging time-travel!

To quote L.P. Hartley, “The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there”. Travelling back 100 years to spend an hour or two at Standen is an accessible and friendly category of escapism for a taste of the past… I’m sure Poirot would highly recommend it!

Alison is a former Modern Languages and S.E.N.D. teacher; currently working on an original music production with 'Shot Full Of Rock & Friends'.

To find out more, go to: www.shotfullofrock.co.uk and https://www.instagram.com/shotfullofrock/ STANDEN PICTURES BY RUSSELL PRAIN

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

A Song for Camelot Excerpt from "Merlinus Ambrosius" one of two plays that Shakespeare should have written had he lived long enough, the other being “Boadicea."

by Steve Awake!

For morning draws the sword of sleep From the cold unyielding grip of Dreaming stone.

King and mage now stand without the gates; The pound of staff and stave ‘Pon ancient oak resounds.

So raise the raven and the nightingale To madrigal and round, Where, not knowing the other’s co-existence, In silence faked their sleep alone.

Awake!

The sound of song reverberates, Let slip once more from silent tongues, Like the sun returns its touch to shadowed strands, Like the folded hands of smitten heroes stirs and Strokes to sleep tired dogs of war, Then deftly turns the virgin page.

Spruce fingers now afire unspring The lock of lost conviction and palliate The hex of might-have-been desires, While the sweep of the quickened brush atones For the blank canvas of the slumbering sage.

Awake!

You have spun epics for heroes in your time, Your tapestries adorned the towers of kings With odysseys of impudent design.

You strummed the lyre, raised the totem that inspired Mariners to sail dream-driven For horizons of some dire Aegean quest.

And, yes, you braved Medusa’s scowl, The storm’s howl, where the glowering ocean Towered broad-shouldered over the listing deck.

You wrote your songs in runes, And they were sung in taverns, Carried in the raven’s beak To stay the slap of Odin’s petulant hand.

You stroked that hand as it steered The floundering longship to safe havens, Breaching new shores behind the mind’s eye.

You brought cargoes of dream, sagas of revelation To unmade harbours on Asgard’s brooding shore And buried your hoard for those as yet unborn.

And more! In your time you have breathed Validation on inspiration’s guttering flame, Taken sweet morning to the diffident Muse And coaxed her to waken.

Your own quest would some poet’s stave befit, Some song like this, for you have forayed The long shores of time’s tempestuous shifts, Flanked by the storm’s waves on every hand.

As you searched for the islands that men of wit Unwitting of themselves have made, How many futile songs were never heard, How much treasure never graced the oft-turned page Or wisdom uttered out of earshot escaped The corner of the up-turned eye?

Like a Valkyrie you have shaken the poet And frog-marched him to pathways of his fame, Yet how much unread and unadored has come to rest Upon the forlorn headstones of forgotten graves?

The weeping Shades guard their treasures well, These gifts bequeathed by Midas to the widowed Muse, Who despairs of some arcane magic scant begun And counting his coin in exile, turns blind to the sun.

With anguished cries in tragic ways We fell each one upon the bard’s still singing blade, Yet here stands our Camelot inured to folly and despair, Glimmering in the twilight, shimmering like The Sultan’s towers in the desert air.

Now, deep within her dawn-lit bowers, The pen dragon stirs, shakes off the scales of sleep; The warrior-poet unsheathes his quill To bring the rescue of maidens, The salvation of cities and of citadels To the world’s as yet unwritten page.

What hath the power to blast that hopeful breach Into the stalwart ramparts of despair If not th’explosive alchemy of ideas?

Once more then, into that hopeful breach my friends, once more!

Attention all bards!

Submit your poems for possible publication in the Town Crier 12

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

by columnist Sally Hansen of BodyPhonics

Emotions: The themselves, leading to Root Cause of burnout. The migraine, in forces them to stop, rest, Physical Health turn, and—perhaps most importantly—set boundaries Conditions by retreating from

Unresolved emotional trauma and stress can manifest as physical ailments, often serving as the body's way of signalling that something deeper needs attention.

By addressing the emotional root cause of an illness, we can create significant shifts in our physical well-being and pave the way for true healing.

When working with clients to uncover the emotional root of their health issues, the first question I ask is: What was happening in your life at the time your condition began? This helps to identify whether a major life event, trauma, or shift triggered the physical response. A sudden illness or chronic pain often coincides with emotional upheavals such as grief, loss, relationship struggles, career stress, or other significant life changes.

obligations. In this way, the migraine serves an unconscious need, and until this is addressed, the cycle may continue.

Further examples of physical ailments and their commonly related unresolved emotional themes include: • Back pain – A feeling of lacking support in life.

• Shoulder pain – Carrying heavy burdens, either emotionally or physically.

• Skin issues – Deep-seated irritation and frustration with a life situation.

Once the triggering event is identified, the next step • Constipation – An inability to let go of a is to explore historical instances of the same theme person, belief, or situation. using regression therapy. This technique allows us While these correlations are not universal, they to trace the pattern back through previous experiences, often leading to the original trauma that cre- serve as valuable starting points for deeper exploration. By acknowledging and working ated the emotional imprint. Healing this original wound can dissolve the negative patterns that have through these emotional connections, we can unlock the key to long-term healing and restore balance to been repeating throughout a person’s life, and ultimately build the bridge towards the long term fix both the mind and body. for physical illness.

The second element I investigate is what is known as secondary gain. This concept asks an important, albeit counterintuitive, question: How is this illness benefitting you? While it may seem strange to think of an illness as beneficial, the subconscious mind often holds onto ailments because they provide something the person struggles to achieve otherwise.

A classic example of secondary gain is seen in individuals who suffer from migraines. Many people with chronic migraines have difficulty setting boundaries and saying no. They overextend 13

The Forest Row Festival 13th-15th June 2025

The vibrant village of Forest Row will host a creative festival over 3 magical days this June, featuring literature, spoken word, music, dance, food, art, and crafts. With something for everyone, this year’s festival is sure to warm your hearts.

Visit website for full details

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Produce fresh and organic vegetables, eggs, mushrooms, or herbs and while you socialise!

The ultimate healthy, cheap, fun and easy way to get your food!

Imagine you put in 2 hours once a week growing food with new friends and take a veg box every time.

Depending on the land you could also produce mushrooms, eggs, or herbs for making your own medicines.

You also get invited to local events, where everyone swaps and shares seeds, seedlings, tools and growing tips.

Growing as a group, sharing a watering rota, covering for each other and taking weeks off, makes this 1000 times easier than your own allotment or garden plot. And it’s great for your health, your food bills, your kids and the planet!

To find out more, explore the possibilities at wegrow.org.uk

If you are a charity or any kind of not-forprofit goodwill endeavour , we will promote you in the Town Crier free of charge.

If you fit the bill and have an upcoming gig, do, bash, happening, gathering or event you would like to tell the community about, then drop us a line at egtowncrier@gmail.com

and we’ll see what we can do for you.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

The International College of Oriental Medicine

The International College of Oriental Medicine is an Acupuncture training college and also a clinic.

We are a registered charity and our college was founded in 1972 and moved to Green Hedges Avenue in East Grinstead around 1977.

ICOM is the oldest Acupuncture college in Europe and the first to be established in the UK. We have around 40 students training with us on a three year degree level programme.

In its long history, ICOM has been a major contributor to the development of Acupuncture in the UK. Many of today’s leading figures in the world of Acupuncture trained here in East Grinstead, including distinguished international lecturers and authors of Acupuncture and Chinese Medical textbooks used by students and practitioners around the world.

Part of our mission is to make high-quality Acupuncture treatment accessible to everyone in the local community and we do this through our low cost fully supervised student clinics.

We also have a multibed clinic on a Saturday enabling people to access low cost treatments with a qualified practitioner.

As well as Acupuncture, we offer a range of other services at the clinic including psychotherapy and counselling, osteopathy, massage therapy and Chinese herbal medicine.

Breathe Easy This Allergy Season with Acupuncture As the seasons change and pollen fills the air, many of us begin to feel the familiar symptoms of hay fever – itchy eyes, sneezing, congestion, and sinus pressure. If you’re tired of reaching for antihistamines and nasal sprays, Acupuncture can help.

How Acupuncture Can Help with Hay Fever In Chinese Medicine hayfever is viewed as a sign of imbalance in the body. Acupuncture can help by: •

Strengthening your immune system to improve your body’s resistance to allergens.

•

Clearing heat and wind from your body to alleviate common symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.

•

Balancing your energy (Qi), particularly in the lungs and sinuses, to reduce inflammation and help your body handle allergy triggers.

•

By addressing the root cause of hay fever, acupuncture can help reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, allowing you to enjoy the seasons without the discomfort.

When Should You Begin Treatment?

The best time to start acupuncture for hay fever is 4-6 weeks before allergy season begins.

This gives us time to strengthen your immune system, balance your energy, and prepare your body for the allergy triggers. If you’re already experiencing symptoms, don’t worry – acupuncture can still provide relief and reduce the intensity of your allergic reactions.

Book an appointment now and take the first step towards natural relief.

Call us on 01342 313106 or visit our website at https://icomclinic.org to schedule your appointment.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Well done, Flint Owl! Commended and Recommended

The Flint Owl Bakery East Grinstead High Street

The Flint Owl bakery provides a clean, warm environs in which to enjoy their fine selection of sandwiches, cakes, fresh organic breads, quiches and so forth.

At lunchtime yesterday I ate there for the first time and I was not disappointed.

Although busy - not surprising considering the warmth and comfort of the establishment - the service was quick and polite and the atmosphere friendly and relaxed.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

I thought the food was of a good standard, the coffee excellent and overall I received very good value for my money.

I’ll for sure go there again and have no hesitation in recommending that you try it.

Well done, Flint Owl! Is there someone you would like to commend and recommend for their outstanding product or service, customer care or value for money?

If they're good, people need to know about them.

A person or group are as valuable as they can be of service to others.

That way we all win.

So write in and tell us whom you would like to commend and recommend.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

East Grinstead In Bloom applications open as categories and prizes are revealed The popular annual garden competition is ready for another wonderful year!

gardens, homes, and commercial premises in the town: Best Seasonal Garden will recognise the best display of summer annuals in the town Best Wildflower Garden will highlight the most sustainable wildlife-friendly planting Best Micro-Garden will include small spaces – even window displays can be beautiful

East Grinstead will be blooming this summer!

Think you have the greenest fingers in East Grinstead? Now is the time to prove it, as the West Sussex town launches the East Grinstead In Bloom Garden Competition for 2025.

East Grinstead in Bloom is a community initiative which promotes environmental responsibility and beautification of local areas. The campaign encompasses floral displays, permanent landscaping, biodiversity, street and neighbourhood cleanliness, recycling promotion, and encouraging all forms of community participation.

The East Grinstead in Bloom team are delighted to welcome entries for all types and sizes of gardens.

Chairman Julie Mockford and Treasurer Norman Mockford said to the Town Crier “East Grinstead in Bloom is more than a competition; it is an initiative which has the town and community at its heart.”

"We know that local residents and businesses love to highlight what makes East Grinstead 'blooming' marvellous and the competition is a fantastic way to bring everyone together as our town lights up in a festival of colours over the summer months.

Best Balconies & Hanging Baskets for the public and businesses who add a little, green-fingered magic to their properties Best Commercial Premises is open to businesses and organisations with front or back gardens, public houses, shops, and restaurants who add some floral flair to their green spaces As well as the glory of being an East Grinstead In Bloom Garden Competition winner, each of the victorious gardeners will pick up garden vouchers, a certificate, and a photo with the East Grinstead Town Mayor.

This year’s free East Grinstead In Bloom Garden Competition is now open for applications. The closing date for all entries is July 31, 2025, with shortlisted candidates being judged from August 1, 2025 The prizes for each category will be garden vouchers - first prize £250, second prize £125, third prize £75, and fourth prize £50. These prizes are in association with Orchard Nursery Plant Centre Ltd, Doves Barn Nursery and Imberhorne Lane Nursery who are delighted to support the initiative.

Applications are now open in five different categories, together highlighting the most beautiful

Continued on next page 18

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025 East Grinstead in Bloom - continued from previous page

It all leads up to the presentation evening on Friday, September 5 at the Meridian Hall, East Court East Grinstead.

For your free entry form and a chance to win up to £250 in garden vouchers, visit http:// eastgrinsteadinbloomcompetitions.co.uk or you can call 07813691360 or 07813691334 and ask for one.

Good Luck to all!

The Magic of Pi (π) & Real-World Applications Maths tutor, Helen Chisholm’s monthly column gives valuable tips on how valuable tipstoonexcel, how or to help excel,your or help children your excel children at maths. excel at maths.

March is a special month for maths enthusiasts, as it Fun Pi Day Challenges for Families brings us Pi Day on March 14th (The 14th day of Why not celebrate Pi Day with some engaging the 3rd month or 3/14 as the Americans write their activities? Here are a few ideas: dates) – a playful nod to the famous number 3.14159… But Pi (π) is far more than just a • Memorisation Challenge: See how many sequence of digits; it is a fundamental constant that digits of Pi you can recall! shapes the world around us in fascinating ways.

• Pi-Themed Baking: Bake a pie and Why 3.14159… is More Than Just a Number measure its circumference and diameter to check the Pi ratio yourself.

Pi is an irrational number, meaning its decimal expansion goes on forever without repeating. This • Pi Art: Create colourful spiral patterns makes it an exciting mathematical mystery! inspired by Pi. Its significance lies in the fact that it represents the Pi is truly a magical number that connects the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, a relationship that remains true no matter the size of abstract world of maths to the practical realities of life. Enjoy exploring its wonders this March! the circle. Without Pi, calculations in geometry, engineering, and physics would be far more Are you looking for extra support in maths this complex.

Easter? I am running GCSE Foundation Maths How Circles, Cylinders, and Spheres Shape Our Revision Sessions (Edexcel) and Year 6 SATs Maths Revision Camps during the first week of the World Easter holidays. Each group session will focus on Pi is everywhere in our daily lives, from the wheels key topics to build confidence and boost exam peron our cars to the circular shapes of planets. formance. Sessions last one hour and cover essenArchitects use Pi when designing curved structures, tial curriculum content. Spaces are limited so book engineers rely on it for building roads and tunnels, now to secure your place! For more details, contact and even medical professionals use it to calculate me at the volume of blood cells. NASA even uses Pi in space exploration to determine distances between makingitcountmathstuition@gmail.com celestial bodies!

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Next-generation digital currency will make everybody rich over the internet wherever people are accepting Kleptos in exchange for their goods or services.

Simple! Yet brilliant!

Excitement reaches fever pitch as klepto-currency enables ordinary people to become capitalists and enslave the planet.

But it is even more brilliant than that! Why?

Because if you become a Klepto Dealer (or Klepto Maniac in the popular parlance) and persuade all

by Steve Cook Typo City your friends and family and other marks to buy Following on from the success of crypto-currencies, Kleptos from you, you STIMULATE DEMAND an entrepreneur operating from a laptop in Melton and once there is a demand or even HYSTERIA Mowbray has created a new digital currency that he that makes Kleptos scarce relative to . . . er, demand, the price of your Kleptos can go up! promises, "will make everybody rich."

Posting excitedly on Twitter at the launch of the new currency, which he has dubbed "Kleptocurrency", Tom Swindler told the world he is "very, very excited" about his new moneymaking system, which uses the miracle of the internet to provide a means of getting rich that completely bypasses the usual central banking system and other scams.

So if you bought your Kleptos five minutes ago at, say, £60 per Klepto (see above), you can by now sell your Klepos for as much as £85! This makes you £25 on the Klepto without you having to lift a finger except as far as your computer keyboard or do anything at all except persuade everybody else to buy them from you!

It is very easy to see that very soon we will all have "It may still be capitalism in its most literal sense," a THRIVING ECONOMY with the value of the Klepto in your online Kleptobank steadily rising! he said, "but this is an equal-opportunities development that will enable even genetically inferior people such as the hoi polloi and other riff- When others see its value rising, they too will want to get rich as well and be falling over themselves to raff to become money-grubbing parasites. It buy it from you, thus pushing up the price of your promises to CHANGE THE WORLD - this time Kleptos even further! even for the better - almost overnight without anyone having to do anything to change it, such as treating other people fairly, not slaughtering anyone This we call the PROSPERITY BUBBLE, which can just go on expanding and expanding forever, or not electing criminals into government." making everybody extremely wealthy without having to do anything boring such as producing He explained further that, "Klepto-currency will enable all of us to become incredibly rich and live something! in the lap of idle luxury for the rest of our days without anybody having to produce anything such And another sure-fire indicator of just how totally as things to buy with our klepto-currency - except, brilliant and exciting this scheme is and why you that is, those who don't have any of it or enough of should not miss out by hesitating, or indeed thinkit, who will become our slaves! And that, surely is a ing, for a nano second is the number of exclamation marks we could not help but use when explaining Good Thing!" it!!!!

The system is simplicity itself. He creates the new So don't delay, get on the gravy train today before it money ("the Klepto") digitally on his laptop. One leaves the station! Buy your Kleptos now while Klepto is worth, at the current rate of exchange at this writing, £10. So if you send him, for example, they are still only £129 per Klepto! a thousand of your outmoded, soon-to-be-redundant Continued on next page dollars, he will send you a hundred of the new exciting, state-of-the-art Kleptos by email.

You can then go ahead and spend your Kleptos all 20

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Klepto currency continued from previous page Here at the Town Crier we have plenty of them to sell so just send us all your money right away and you'll become incredibly rich but of course not as rich as we shall.

And don't forget, if you missed out due to lack of foresight or brain cells or testicles and become one of the saddoes who don't have any Kleptos, you will automatically become our slave!

And in case you were wondering what happens to all the dollars or pounds or yen or whatever of the oldfashioned, useless money you exchanged for your new brilliant, much cleverer money? Well, let Tom Swindler explained it for the layman thus: "In simple terms, the old-fashioned completely stupid money that is doomed to become a relic will be phased out and recycled mainly by me buying lots of yachts, helicopters, villas and countries with it."

This plaque is on a wall next door to where I live.

the customers of 1 Middle Row sip their coffee.

And that in turn reminded me of just how far our I’m ashamed to say that since I moved to East Grin- civilisation has come since the days when citizens stead High Street six years ago, I have walked past could be set alight for thinking the wrong thoughts, it almost every day without noticing it. To be fair it an act of psychopathic viciousness for which the is somewhat about eye level and relatively easy to human excrement responsible would themselves miss. nowadays be arrested by normally polite and unarmed police officers themselves bound by our But for some reason, this morning it grabbed my just laws, put on trial before a jury of their peers and attention and gave me cause to reflect that my flat banged up if the evidence shows them to be guilty. overlooks the spot where the burning of East Grinstead citizens commemorated by the plaque took For all that there is still a lot of work to be done as place and in 1556 the building I live in was already we win the game of building a civilisation fit for here and presumably occupied. I realised that the good people to live in, we have come a very very then occupants of what is now my front lounge long way. must have watched the screaming agonies of their fellow citizens from the very windows where I now Let’s not surrender the considerable ground we watch traffic wardens slap tickets on parked cars or have won.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

ACE Theatre Company is happy to present Abigail’s Party, a Mike Leigh classic, on the stage this spring.

This satirical comedy first debuted in the 1970s as a satire on the emerging British middle class.

Guaranteed to make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, this play is a must-see.

Our performances are: Queen bee Beverly and her materialistic husband Laurence Moss make for a hilarious duo. Joined by Ifield Barn Theatre, Crawley - Thursday 10th overly confident Tony and timid Angela, the April 7.30pm & Friday 11th April 7.30pm Coopers, plus Susan Lawson and her nervous disposition, it promises to be an interesting affair!

White Hart Barn, Surrey - Saturday 12th April 2.30pm & 7.30pm This is the kind of play that will take you back in time to the 70s - lots of brown, kitsch prints, and Tickets are available at: cheese and pineapple. https://www.ticketsource.eu/acetheatrecompany ACE Theatre Company is an amateur dramatic group, drawing people from East Grinstead, Or phone 07872 000255 Crawley, and the surrounding villages.

General admission - £15 We have had success in the past with plays such as Concessions - £13 Bothered and Bewildered, Another Life, and Bar and raffle, cash or card Bouncers and Shakers. We are excited to share yet another classic with our audiences - and we hope to Find us on Facebook see you there!

Another Recipe that Probably Won’t Kill You Organic 100% Natural Protein Powder

seeds:        

Pistachios Walnuts Pumpkin seeds Chia seeds Brown linseeds Sesame seeds Almonds White quinoa

Here is a very straightforward way to make your own natural protein powder that works and tastes great in your porridge, shakes and smoothies and so forth, or on its own!

Add a spoonful of Ashwaganda powder (optional) It probably also saves you a bob or two although I’ve not yet accurately costed it.

Put all the ingredients into a blender and blend thoroughly until they form a powder.

Its advantages are that it takes very little time to And that’s it! make and enables you to control completely what’s in it, so no hidden nasties etc.

Got a healthy/tasty recipe you would like to share? Then please send it in!

Take 25g each of the following organic nuts and 22

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Are there any humourists and satirists out there in our community?

Don’t be shy!

Submit your work for publication in the Town Crier.

Bestow upon all of us the gift of laughter!

On Dogs and Cats I highly recommend that young people adopt either a dog or a cat.

The invaluable experience of looking after them and catering for their needs provides some very good preparation for parenthood.

Dogs, for instance, prepare you for having a baby.

Whilst cats prepare you for having a teenager.

Enough said

Local Wit Here’s a gem I picked up off one of the local groups but I’ve lost my note as to who posted it.

But it’s too good not to share, so if anyone knows who is responsible for this delightful witticism, please let me know so that I can give them the credit they deserve.

“God created me a woman I identify as a woman.

But according to Tesco’s Sticky Toffee Pudding, I am a family of four.”

And as another wag pointed out: “The time to really worry is when your bathroom scales confirm it . . . “ 23

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

The Ashdown Forest Foundation

The committee and members of East Grinstead Community Bonfire would like to invite you to the annual Badge Night to be held on Wednesday 26th March, 7.30pm, at The Old Dunnings Mill, Dunnings Road, East Grinstead.

This event is open to everyone, so why not come along, say hello, and learn more about what we do.

We’d love to meet you and if you’d like to join us, that’s even better!

We recently held a fun competition in local schools, asking children to design this year’s badge.

We’ll be revealing the winning design right after the prize is awarded to the talented young artist.

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Raises vital funds to protect Ashdown Forest for future generations.

To find out how you can help, visit their website

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Bringing Afternoon Tea to the Heart of the Community The Mug Tree Tea Room Afternoon tea has been a cherished British tradition since the 1840s when Anna, Duchess of Bedford, introduced it as a way to satisfy hunger between lunch and dinner.

What started as a fashionable indulgence for the upper classes evolved into a beloved ritual, synonymous with homemade delights, good company, and special occasions. But for many years, afternoon tea remained an exclusive luxury, only found in high-end hotels with equally highend prices.

When we opened The Mug Tree Tea Room in 2014, nowhere on the high street offered a truly homemade afternoon tea—it was only available in grand hotels with a grand price tag attached! We believed that everyone should be able to enjoy freshly made, high-quality afternoon tea, so we set out to bring that same level of excellence (if not better!) to the high street, making it affordable, welcoming, and accessible to all.

Now, ten years on, we have become so much more than just a tea room. We have built a thriving, community-driven business, offering not only award-winning afternoon teas but also a welcoming space for people from all walks of life.

We’ve hosted countless mums and babies, offering a supportive environment with baby weighing services, provided a safe haven for those in need, donated to numerous charities, and stood by our community during difficult times—especially through the pandemic, when we supported the vulnerable in any way we could.

This year sees our eleventh Mother's Day season and we’re pulling out all the stops with our luxurious afternoon tea, designed to truly spoil those incredible mums in our lives. Expect beautiful floral touches, homemade delights crafted with love, and a menu fit for a queen—whether you join us in our cosy tea room, or take a carefully boxed afternoon tea home, it's perfect for all ages to enjoy and you are certain to have an amazing Mother's Day treat.

Grinstead and to have become such a valued part of our community. So, get behind us, support local, and join us in making this Mother’s Day one to remember!

Bookings are now open—reserve your table today before they're all gone!

01342 457 100 themugtree@hotmail.com **WINNER** SBS Small Business Sunday 2024 **BRONZE** TMMA Best Local Business 2024 **Finalist** Dynamic Awards 2024 Inspirational Award **GOLD** TMMA Best Family Run Business 2023 **BRONZE** TMMA Best Local Business 2023 ** WINNER ** King Charles' Coronation Champion 2023 ** WINNER ** Dynamic Awards Community Hero 2023 ** WINNER ** FSB Community Award 2020 ** WINNER ** SME Most Outstanding Tea Room 2020

Shop 2, Old Stone Link, Ship Street, East Grinstead

As an award-winning, family-run business, we’re proud to have brought afternoon tea to East 25

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Top Tips for Decorating

walls; and specialist paint is available for bathrooms (resisting mold due to high humidity) and kitchens (resisting stains, moisture and frequent wiping).

Get the right tools: buy cheap buy twice! Look Preparation is key to a good after quality tools and they should last you for decorating job! Time taken can be up to 60% prep, years. You’ll need at least: 30% painting and 10% clean up. Here are some top tips to help you achieve a great-looking finish: Plastic-lined dust sheet(s), lots of rags and a bucket with mild mix of warm washing up water Empty the room as much as possible: items you can’t take out, put in the middle of the room. Put Thin (1 inch) and wide (2 inch) quality brushes plastic-lined dust sheets on the floor. Start in the (natural bristles for oil-based, synthetic bristles for morning if possible to give you a chance to get two water-based); coats done in one day.

Paint tray, roller cradle, fitting roller (made of Prepare the walls: remove old hooks/nails, wet the microfibre or if gloss then foam), choose a roller holes to reduce dust and then apply filler. Making with appropriate length of pile: from short pile your own filler from powder (into consistency of (6mm) for smooth walls to long pile (for bumpy/ tooth paste) is cheapest or else buy ready-made textured surfaces) and a telescopic extension pole (ready-made fast drying is most expensive). Ensure (for ceilings); and you’re using a flexible filler knife as opposed to a stiffer scraper knife. Remove away excess filler Filler and scraper knives, polyfiller, wood (aka 2 from the wall but leave a slightly proud amount part or P30) filler, medium grit sandpaper (100-120 over the hole as a flush finish will dry with a grit), stepladder. dimple. When completely dry, sand down with medium grit sandpaper (100-120 grit); Painting: cover paint tray with aluminium foil to facilitate Once the wall is filled and flat, lightly ‘key’ the easy cleaning and use less water; wall with a fine sand paper (to help the new paint adhere to the surface); lightly wet your brushes and roller to help them absorb the paint; Then wipe down the walls with a mild mix of warm washing up water, you can use Sugar Soap but not start with the ceiling, then the coving, walls and essential. Allow to dry; finally woodwork; Ever so slightly unscrew plug sockets and pendant light fittings to allow you to paint around them (turn off the power to that room to be extra cautious); If there are gaps between the walls and coving or skirting then add caulk.

Choose your paint, points to consider:

cut in first, i.e. use a thin brush to paint around all edges (flattening the brush to deliver a steady line of paint); perfecting this will avoid the need to use masking tape!; and then fill in with a roller using long strokes in shapes of an “M”, tense your core and treat this as a yoga workout! Two thin coats look a lot better than one thick coat. If pausing for a few hours/overnight, load brush/roller with paint and wrap in a plastic bag to use later.

Interior or exterior?

When finished, under a running tap push the back of a knife down the brush/roller to get most of the Water or oil based? These days there’s no need to paint out, rollers can then be soaked in a bucket go for oil based, it’s bad for the environment, overnight, once water is running clear off them, harder to apply, takes longer to dry, harder to clean vigorously flick brush/roller out and allow to air up and there are water-based paints that now come dry. Once dry, store in a plastic bag. with a gloss finish.

Good luck! If you want to have in-person What sheen? You can have gloss, satin, eggshell instruction please book a Decorating class at How or matt. Generally gloss for woodwork, satin or To Basically’s workshop near Scaynes Hill or aceggshell for hard wearing / high traffic areas that cess our online video guides via might need an occasional wipe down (like a www.howtobasically.co.uk. hallway) and then matt for relaxing areas/uneven 26

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Kidical Mass:

A Community Ride for All Ages Kidical Mass is more than just a bike ride - it’s a celebration of community, confidence, and a vision for a more cycle-friendly future.

Whether it’s children gaining new skills, parents sharing their enthusiasm, or experienced cyclists showing their support, the event fosters a shared passion for active travel.

As riders make their way through town, passing well-known landmarks and receiving smiles from onlookers, the message is clear: cycling is an accessible, enjoyable, and environmentally friendly choice for everyone.

On Sunday, 6th April, families and cyclists of all ages will gather in East Grinstead for the muchanticipated Kidical Mass ride.

This fun and inclusive event showcases the joys of cycling while promoting sustainable transport, offering a fantastic opportunity for people to ride together in a safe and welcoming environment.

By participating in Kidical Mass, we’re helping to build a future where streets are safer, communities are more connected and cycling is a natural part of everyday life.

A shining example of the event’s impact is young rider Harry. Last year, he was just learning to cycle So, whether you’re a regular cyclist or new to the in time for the June ride. Fast forward to today, and experience, this is your chance to be part of his bicycle has become his preferred mode of something special. transport.

Join us for a ride that’s not just about getting from Not only has cycling given him independence, but A to B, but about shaping a greener, healthier future he is also tracking his carbon savings, together. demonstrating how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Join our Facebook Group

EAST SURREY WALKERS We are the friendly local Ramblers group with members throughout the Tandridge district which includes Lingfield and Dormansland - and beyond.

The East Grinstead Society

Among other things, the Society is active in promoting the study of local history and interests of the Town and its people.

To find out more about them, visit their website

Visit our website Connect up with us on Facebook 27

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Find Peace and Renewal at

CLARIDGE HOUSE

Claridge House is an independent charity providing a sanctuary for guests seeking rest and renewal.

The house is an attractive, mid-19th Century building set in 2 acres of beautiful, established gardens in Dormansland and is a place of peace to nurture and renew your holistic wellbeing.

We offer courses, retreats and B&B stays to suit all interests and to soothe the mind, body & soul.

Have you’ve been wanting to try something new or develop a skill further? Or perhaps you’re simply craving the opportunity to embrace some peace and tranquillity away from your hectic day-to-day life? Café (not as scary as it sounds!) and involvement in The Quiet Garden Movement and The National Claridge House offers a safe, welcoming and Garden Scheme happening in May. And of course, friendly environment in which to explore, learn and our Quaker Meeting for Worship every Sunday grow – in your own company or the presence of 9.45-10.45am. other like-minded individuals.

Make sure you follow our socials and sign up to our Whether you’d like to experience a meditation newsletter to be the first to hear about everything course for the first time, or take part in mindfulness coming up at Claridge House. mornings, try a yoga retreat or practice Tai Chi, we are your local centre for all things wellbeing!

Speak to us today to discover how you can learn new skills, heal, rest and nurture your whole self.

Come and enjoy the warm environment of Claridge We look forward to welcoming you.

House on a residential stay and benefit from the nourishing vegetarian, healthy breakfasts, lunches Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ and suppers on offer – as well as the delicious ritual ClaridgeHouseRetreat/ of tea and cake in the afternoons.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ Just want to try a one-day or half-day day course? claridgehouseretreats/ That’s no problem, either non-residential options are available, too (and you can still add on the tasty Website: www.claridgehouse.org.uk lunches if you wish), as well as bursary options for those in need.

We pride ourselves on our community ethos and regularly run free workshops and events at Claridge House to encourage community spirit and belonging.

These include things like our Happy Café, our Warm Hub Wednesdays (10.30am-2pm), the Death 28

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

The Breathing Room: Spring to Life!

Judith Rayner’s monthly column

There's something magical about March, isn't there?

The first brave daffodils pushing through, birds getting chattier by the day, and that gorgeous light (blue sky at last!) After months of winter hibernation, nature is waking up and our bodies know it too.

Spring is a time of awakening and growth and to do so fully, we need to clear out some of the old to make space for the new.

As our minds go to the idea of spring cleaning, remember it’s not just about dusting corners and reorganising cupboards. It's an opportunity to clear out the cobwebs in every area of our lives business, relationships and inner landscape.

Let's talk about a holistic spring clean: Business Spring Cleaning: • Review your goals and commitments – are they still relevant?

• Clear out digital clutter (those endless email folders!)

• Re-assess your client relationships and be honest • Simplify your workflow and remove unnecessary processes Personal Life Spring Cleaning: • Review your diary – can you create some space?

• Clear out physical spaces that drain your energy • Let go of habits that no longer serve you Emotional Spring Cleaning: • Practise compassion and forgiveness (of yourself and others) • Release old narratives that keep you stuck – let it go!

• Explore what brings you genuine joy and do more of those Relationships Spring Cleaning: • Have honest conversations and reconnect with people you've drifted from

• Set clear boundaries • Let go of relationships that feel draining.

As a breathwork coach, I've discovered that our breath is the ultimate guide in this process. Each intentional breath can help you release, reset, and re-imagine.

This month, try these practices: • Start your day with three long, slow, expansive breaths • Take a mindful walk and notice what's awakening in nature • Listen to what your body and heart need as you emerge from winter Ready to embrace your own spring awakening?

Join my Spring Breathwork workshops in East Grinstead on 30th March or 27th April, where we’ll explore these themes of renewal and release, plus techniques for everyday balance and wellbeing.

Click here to book or contact me on judith@walkandtalk4success.com.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Community First Responders

Epilepsy Awareness and First Aid: Supporting Our Community Epilepsy affects approximately 1 in 100 people in the UK, making it a prevalent condition that many may encounter in their daily lives. Understanding how to assist someone experiencing a seizure is crucial, especially for community first responders.

With Purple Day on March 26 dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy, it's an opportune time to refresh our knowledge of seizure first aid and learn how to support those affected.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures due to sudden, excessive electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can manifest in various forms, from brief lapses in awareness to intense convulsions. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond can significantly impact the well-being of the individual experiencing the seizure.

Causes and Triggers While epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in adults, other factors include: • Lack of sleep • Stress • Head injuries • Alcohol poisoning • Extreme temperatures • Flashing lights • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in individuals with diabetes Recognising Seizures Seizures can vary widely in appearance. Common signs include: • Sudden muscle jerks or stiffness • Loss of consciousness or awareness • Staring spells • Uncontrollable movements of the limbs or face It's essential to note that not all seizures involve convulsions; some may present as subtle changes in behaviour or sensation.

First Aid Steps St John Ambulance recommends a straightforward approach to managing seizures: 1. Stay composed and reassure those around you.

2. Gently guide the person to the ground if they're standing, place soft padding under their head, and remove nearby hazards.

3. Only when any jerky movements have stopped should you open their airway and check they are breathing, which can be maintained by putting them in the recovery position.

4. Monitor them, look for a medi-alert bracelet.

4. When to call 999, or 112 for emergency help: 1. It is their first seizure 2. They are having repeated seizures 3. The cause is unknown 4. The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes 5. They are unresponsive for more than 10 minutes after the seizure finishes 6. They have an injury on another part of the body, or are not breathing normally.

Additional First Aid Tips • Do Not Restrain: avoid holding the person down or trying to stop their movements, as this can cause injury.

• Recovery Position: once the seizure subsides, gently roll the person onto their side to allow fluids to drain and keep the airway clear.

• Stay with the Individual: Remain with them until they regain full consciousness, offering reassurance and comfort or until the ambulance arrives.

Continued on next page

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Epilepsy - continued from previous page

Your quick actions can make a huge difference.

The ambulance service would be delighted to arrive at a patient and see that you've taken these essential first aid steps—keeping them safe, protecting their head, and staying calm. These small but vital actions not only provide immediate support but also help ensure the best possible outcome for the individual. By learning and sharing seizure first aid, we can all play a part in creating a safer and more informed community.

Supporting Purple Day: Raising Awareness Purple Day, observed annually on March 26, was founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan to increase awareness about epilepsy and to assure those affected that they are not alone. The colour purple was chosen because lavender is recognised as the international flower of epilepsy.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Epilepsy Society's Purple Day page. https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/get-involved/ purpleday

For more information visit St John’s Ambulance

Local Irish Dancers heading to the World Championships Lingfield Irish dancers Caroline Bool (51) and Tatiana Nesterenko (34) will be setting off for Liege, Belgium from 15-18th April 2025 to compete at the World Irish Dance Association's Irish dance World Championships 2025.

Both ladies will compete in solo championships in their respective age groups across 4 rounds - a softshoe round (slip jig) and two hardshoe rounds (a treble jig and a traditional set). The top 50% from the competition will be recalled to dance a modern set - an individual modern choreography. The winners will be announced on 18th April.

Tatiana will also be competing in the Traditional Set championship - in which 3 dances will be selected on the day from a possible 9 traditional choreographies.

Both ladies are excited to compete at the WIDA Event - where adult dancers are positively encouraged with age groups up to and including the over 45s. Caroline and Tatiana have both been podium placers at previous events - so we're excited for a great competition.

Tatiana and Caroline train at Gibbins School of Irish Dance at Lingfield College on Wednesday evenings from 7pm.

Newcomers are always welcome - whether you've danced before and want to pick it up again or if you're a complete beginner!

We teach children's classes and adults' classes for all ages and abilities.

Contact us at gibbinsirishdance@outlook.com for a free trial class.

Find us on Facebook and Instagram 31

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

What do French people really eat?

by Dominique Cook

Is it all escargots and boeuf bourguignon?

But sometimes it will be simple steak and chips with a salad. Fish is the staple on Fridays for a lot of Quite often, when people find out that I am French, people. the conversation turns to food and specifically what French people cook and eat at home.

We usually have a roast on Sundays with roast potatoes and vegetables. Gravy is made with the A lot of people seem to think that we French people cooking juices. all cook like Raymond Blanc. This is very flattering, however most of us eat quite simply most Starters are simple, such as “crudités”, i.e. carrot or days, just differently to how one eats in the UK or beetroot salad, or it could be a soup or asparagus in other countries. with homemade mayonnaise. Simple stuff.

The food can also vary widely whether you are in In the evenings, we often have soup, or salad with the North or in the South of France, or in one of the cold meats and cheese, or pasta.

French islands, i.e. Réunion, Guadeloupe, Corsica, However, for big occasions, such as marriages, etc. anniversaries, etc. then meals go on forever. You One major difference is that we eat our main meals could be eating from lunchtime well into the at lunchtime and a light dinner in the evening. And evening, with breaks in between to walk about or often, lunchtime is a two-course meal, with a simple dance. Those types of meals could comprise 3 starter and a main, sometimes a main and a starters, 3 mains, cheeses galore, 3 sets of puddings, pudding. with drinks flowing constantly, alcoholic or not.

Most days, dessert will come in the form of a But back in the UK, I really like a good fish and yogurt, a piece of fruit or some cheese. Or all three. chips. And a proper full English breakfast is so At my parents’, there were always 3 or 4 cheeses on satisfying. And believe it or not, when I go to visit offer. family in France, I am asked to bring Blue Stilton, Cornish Yarg and a good Cheddar. So, I do. And When I told my (British) grandchildren that yogurt this year, I will be bringing Cornish pasties across or fruit was pudding when I grew up, they thought it the English Channel. We’ll see what the verdict is. was sad, i.e. how can that be pudding, but that was I’m sure they will like it. the norm. We had a sweet pudding on Sundays, or when having guests, but not usually during the Until next time, Au revoir! week. Often, this would be a cake or tart bought Dominique Cook, Dip.Trans. CIOL. from the neighbourhood boulangerie.

French translator and interpreter.

But what type of dishes do we eat? It is true that boeuf bourguignon is on the table often. Cheap to Visit my website at make and delicious, in my childhood home it was eaten with rice, some have it with potatoes. To this www.linguafrancafrenchtranslations.com day, I make it regularly at home; it is not something Or email domicook64@gmail.com I can do without.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Be Beautiful!

Your Skincare and Beauty Tips with Sarah Dell Revitalising Dry and Dehydrated Skin: The Secret to Youthful Radiance hydrating cleanser.

Dry, parched skin can feel like a constant battle, Exfoliating: It is important to exfoliate your skin especially when it starts to highlight those fine lines twice a week, this helps to remove dry & dead skin and wrinkles that we’d rather keep hidden, but cells which cause a dull and lacklustre appearance. worry not!

Humectant Hero: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum or moisturiser to damp skin to lock in moisture.

Achieving a plump, radiant complexion is within Seal the Deal: Follow with a rich moisturiser to reach and I'm here to guide you. create a barrier and prevent water loss. For dry skin, look for ingredients like ceramides and shea Understanding the Difference: Dry vs. butter.

Dehydrated Hydrating Masks: Treat your skin to a hydrating First, let's clear up a common confusion. Dry skin mask once or twice a week for an extra boost of lacks oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water. You moisture. can have dry, dehydrated skin, or oily, dehydrated Stay Hydrated Inside Out: Drink plenty of water skin! throughout the day to keep hydrated.

Sun Protection: Always wear sunscreen! Sun Dry skin often feels rough and flaky, while dehydamage can worsen dryness and accelerate the drated skin can feel tight and look dull. Both can aging process. make lines and wrinkles appear more pronounced.

Beyond the Basics Think of it like this: a grape is plump and smooth, Sometimes, your skin needs a little extra help. but a raisin is shrivelled and lined. When your skin Professional treatments can provide a deeper level is dehydrated, it's like that raisin – the lack of mois- of hydration and address specific concerns. I offer ture makes every crease more visible. bespoke skincare solutions to target every skin concern, this includes deeply nourishing treatments The Power of Hydration to increase your skins hydration and radiance.

Keeping your skin well-hydrated is key to a youthful look. When skin cells are plump with water, Ready for Your Dewy Transformation? they smooth out the skin’s surface, minimising the If you're struggling with dry, dehydrated skin and appearance of lines. This is why a good hydrating want to achieve a radiant, youthful complexion, I routine is so important! am here to help and can create a personalised skincare plan tailored to your unique needs.

Humectants: Your Skin's Best Friend Enter the humectant. These clever ingredients, like Book your skincare consultation or hydrating facial hyaluronic acid and glycerin, work by attracting and with The SLB Beauty Studio today and unlock the holding onto water, pulling moisture from the air secret to beautifully supple skin! and deeper layers of your skin to the surface. Think of them as tiny sponges that keep your skin Please note that I've moved! My new address is hydrated from the inside out!

The SLB Beauty Studio, Why are they so important?

1st Floor, 30 Railway Approach, *Boost Hydration: They deliver a surge of moisEast Grinstead, RH19 1BP. ture, leaving your skin feeling supple and smooth. *Plump and Smooth: By increasing hydration, Visit my website: they help to fill in fine lines and wrinkles.

SLBBeautystudio.com *Improve Skin Barrier: A well-hydrated skin barrier is stronger and better able to protect against Find me on Facebook: environmental damage.

SLB Beauty Studio East Grinstead Building Your Hydrating Routine Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh cleansers that strip And Instagram your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a creamy or theslbbeautystudio 33

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Have you considered playing Lawn Bowls?

The East Grinstead Bowling Club may well be just right for you.

Located in the heart of East Grinstead with access to a free car park, it also has a Club room where you can enjoy refreshments after each game.

The Club is a mixed Club of varying abilities, enjoys a full fixture list and warmly welcomes new bowlers.

Lawn bowls is a low-impact sport and has many health benefits, including improved fitness and social wellbeing.

There is a Members roll-up twice a week and Members can also participate in Matches throughout the season once they have joined and feel confident enough.

Spare bowls are available that can be used before purchasing your own. The club encourage casual attire for roll-ups so you don’t have to buy any special outfit to start with; you just need to ensure you have flat-soled shoes.

If you are new to bowls, Club Members will welcome you and provide instruction. The season is April to September so do check the website for further information and come along to find out what it is all about. www.egbc.org.uk.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

In this monthly column, Forest Row’s renowned artist Gill Bustamante, shares some of her hard-won know how with all you budding artists out there.

And this month’s tip is . . . . .

whilst other places feel less friendly and sometimes even sinister. All these impressions together with the wildlife I spot on my walks tend to appear in my paintings.

Go Walking!

My favourite place, so far, is around Bignor where the love and respect for the landscape, by the residents and farmers, is palpable.

As a Sussex-based artist, I spend much of my time walking in Sussex and then painting my impressions I am writing this as part of my purpose as an artist is of a place once I have returned home. to encourage people to walk and to look at their landscapes and to want to help protect them and the My fascination for the landscape is that, in spite of wildlife in them. I hope I succeeded a little and to the tragedy of having been cut into fragments by illustrate what I have described, here are a few of roads, it is green and ancient and still retains the the paintings I made after some of my explorations. marks of former generations all over it.

Paintings shown are: In Sussex this includes mill ponds, Roman roads, clay pits, iron smelting works, pillow mounds 1.Spring Calling – inspired by spring at Pixton Hill, (ancient rabbit warren farms), hill forts, burrows and Forest Row much more.

2. Summer Calling - inspired by summer South A place I particularly enjoy is Brightling, where a Downs view near Selmeston character called Mad Jack Fuller once lived and is now buried in a large pyramid in the local 3. Autumn Calling – inspired by Ashdown Forest in churchyard! (This area is a treat to visit as he has Autumn left oddities all over it).

4, Winter Calling - inspired by snowy day in an area I also like how different landscapes feel. Some near Crowborough places have a calm and welcoming atmosphere,

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

What to Forage in March

by Ross Symonds founder of A to Bee Ecology

the leaves to neutralise their sting. Nettle soup, tea, or even homemade nettle pasta are great ways to March is a month of transition. As winter loosens its enjoy this wild superfood. grip, the countryside begins to stir with fresh life.

Medicinal Benefits: Nettles are rich in iron and While the full abundance of spring is still a few have anti-inflammatory properties, making them weeks away, there’s already plenty to forage if you beneficial for allergies, arthritis, and overall vitality. know where to look. From the first tender greens to Lookalikes: Dead-nettles (Lamium species) the early blossoms, March offers a taste of what’s to resemble true nettles but don’t sting. They are also come. Here’s what to keep an eye out for this month edible and have distinctive purple, pink, or white and some tips on how to identify your finds. flowers.

1. Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum) Wild garlic is one of the most exciting early spring forages. Found in damp woodlands and along shaded riverbanks, it carpets the ground with vibrant green leaves before its star-like white flowers emerge later in the season. The easiest way to identify wild garlic is by crushing a leaf between your fingers – the unmistakable smell of garlic will confirm your find.

The leaves can be eaten raw in salads, blended into pesto, or wilted into soups and stews.

Medicinal Benefits: Wild garlic is known for its antibacterial and blood-cleansing properties, supporting heart health and circulation.

Lookalikes: Lords-and-ladies (Arum maculatum) grows in the same places but lacks the garlicky scent. Always check the smell before harvesting.

4. Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta) This small but mighty member of the mustard family thrives in disturbed ground, garden beds, and pathways. It has small, rounded leaves and tiny white flowers, and its peppery taste makes it a great alternative to cress in sandwiches and salads.

Medicinal Benefits: Hairy bittercress is high in vitamin C and supports digestion and immune health.

Identification Tip: Unlike many cresses, hairy bittercress has a rosette of leaves at the base and grows no more than a few inches tall.

5. Chickweed (Stellaria media) A delicate, sprawling plant with tiny white star-shaped flowers, chickweed is a mild and 2. Cleavers (Galium aparine) nutritious green. It’s a great Also known as stickyweed or addition to salads, sandwiches, goosegrass, cleavers begin to or stir-fries. It has a single line of hairs running grow vigorously in March. down its stem, a key feature that helps distinguish it Recognisable by their whorls of from other similar-looking plants. narrow leaves and their Medicinal Benefits: Chickweed is cooling and tendency to cling to clothing and fur, cleavers are best harvested when young and tender. They make a soothing, making it great for skin conditions like eczema and for reducing inflammation. refreshing infusion or can be juiced for a gentle Tip for Identification: Pull the stem apart gently – spring tonic that supports the lymphatic system. if it has an inner elastic-like thread, you’ve found Medicinal Benefits: Cleavers are excellent for detoxing and promoting lymphatic drainage, making chickweed. them great for skin health and reducing inflammation.

6. Gorse Flowers (Ulex Tip for Identification: Cleavers feel sticky due to europaeus) tiny hooked hairs on their stems and leaves – this If you’re wandering through ‘sticky’ texture makes them easy to distinguish. heathland or along hedgerows, you may spot bright yellow gorse flowers. These coconut3. Nettles (Urtica dioica) scented blossoms can be used to Stinging nettles are a nutritional flavour syrups, teas, or homemade liqueurs. Just be powerhouse, packed with iron, careful of the sharp spines on the plant when vitamins, and minerals. March is harvesting. the perfect time to pick young nettle tops before they become Continued on next page tough. Use gloves to harvest them and blanch or dry 36

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

From the Palace of Versailles to the Bookshop in East Grin-

Foraging Tips continued from previous page Medicinal Benefits: Gorse has uplifting properties and has been used in traditional remedies for boosting mood and easing anxiety.

Foraging Note: Only pick a few flowers from each bush to allow pollinators to enjoy them too.

by Judith Thomson When people see my historical novels, one of the first questions they often ask is, whether I have always loved history. Well, the answer to that is no! I hated it at school!

7. Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum) A coastal plant that also grows inland along hedgerows, Alexanders have thick, hollow stems and glossy, three-part leaves. The young shoots and flower buds have a mild, celery-like flavour and can be steamed or stir-fried.

Medicinal Benefits: Alexanders support digestion and were historically used to relieve indigestion and bloating.

Identification Tip: Break the stem – it should have a strong, aromatic scent. Avoid plants with a musty or unpleasant smell, as these could be toxic lookalikes like hemlock.

I always loved writing stories though, I've done that ever since I was a little girl, Never did anything with them, just stuck them in boxes and got on with real life, such as getting a job and raising a family. Then I visited Versailles.

People talk about a Eureka moment, well that was mine. Wandering around the gardens it was as though I had come home. I got it. I got exactly what Louis XlV had wanted to achieve there and when I looked at his massive portrait inside his magnificent chateau, I knew I had to get to know him better. That was the beginning. I began learning all I could about Louis and about 17th century France. My fascination with the period in France extended across the channel to England, where his cousin, Charles ll was now on the throne, another larger-than-life character, and gradually a character of my own evolved. If he was to be a part of the events happening in both the English and French Courts, I figured he needed to be half-French. He would also need to have his wits about him if he was to prosper, or even survive, during the wars, plots and politics throughout the reigns of two of the most spectacular kings in English and French history and he needed to be handsome, devious and daring if he was going to have any fun! I had created Philip Devalle.

Final Foraging Tips • Always be 100% sure of identification before eating any wild plant. Use multiple features (scent, leaf shape, habitat) to confirm your find.

• Forage sustainably – take only what you need and never strip an area bare.

• Avoid polluted areas such as roadsides or places where pesticides may have been used.

March’s foraging offers a glimpse of spring’s coming abundance, with fresh greens and edible flowers ready to be gathered. Get outside, explore, and enjoy the wild flavours and medicinal benefits of the season!

Join me for one of my Spring Foraging Experiences, whether it’s a relaxed walk through the woods, a full-day wild food immersion, or a fun evening of foraged cocktails. For those who enjoy a touch of magic, I’ve got a special folklore and hedgerow medicine session lined up, too!

Visit linktr.ee/rosstheecologist for details.

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By now I had been back to Versailles several times for research and acquired a library of reference books, mostly found in second hand bookshops, which became my chief haunt, wherever I went (no Googling anything back in those days!) and it quickly became apparent to me that, with everything that was going on in the period, one book was never going to cover it. And it didn’t. Philip’s adventures have now become a series of seven novels spanning nearly thirty years of history and three kings of England, as well as that of the one who started the whole thing off – Louis XlV! If you fancy seeing what Philip got up to through the tumultuous years of the 17th century then visit my website judiththomson.com where you can discover more about him and read excerpts from my books, or you can pop into The Bookshop, in East Grinstead and find him there!

East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

The Joy of Learning French

by Christine Sotiriou

Why Children Benefit from Early Language Education In today’s globalised world, language skills are increasingly valuable and learning French is an excellent choice!

French is one of the most spoken languages in different continents and can open doors to cultural enrichment, improved cognitive skills, and better career prospects in the future.

But why should children start learning French at a young age?

How can parents, guardians and educators support them in this process?

Another way to practise French could be to join French Playgroups and Classes.

Supporting your child’s French learning Parents and educators play a crucial role in facilitating this learning process. Encouraging a positive attitude toward the language, celebrating small milestones, and integrating French into daily routines can make a big difference.

The Benefits of Learning French at an Early Age

Additionally, exposing children to French culture, whether through watching movies, cooking, or playing, can strengthen their connection to the language.

Research has shown that children who learn a second language at a very young age benefit from significant cognitive advantages. Their brains become better able to multitask, solve problems, and think critically.

The more fun and rewarding the learning experience, the more likely children can develop a lasting appreciation for French.

In addition, bilingual children tend to be more creative than their monolingual peers and retain better memory.

For those looking to introduce their child to French with a fun and engaging way, we are providing private lessons tailored to your child's needs.

Contact us today to learn more.

French, in particular, is a fantastic choice for young learners as it is one of the most studied languages www.sussexfrenchtutor.co.uk christine@sussesfrenchtutor.co.uk in the world.

07957418008 Fun and Engaging Ways to Teach French to Children

One of the most effective ways to teach children French is through immersive and engaging activities.

Here are some ideas for making language learning fun, like Songs and Rhymes, Storytelling, Games and Role-Playing, also Technology and Apps.

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Looking for Local Talent in our Area!

The Feelgood Radio Station

The Feelgood Station is broadcast worldwide, but is run from our main studios in Devon and West Sussex and we very much want to include the local people in our areas who would like the opportunity to talk to us about their interests, any charities or community projects they are involved in, small business ventures, or maybe local events they would like to promote.

Interviews are conducted simply and easily by mobile phone and anyone wishing to appear on our Feelgood Morning Magazine Show, which is broadcast every weekday morning between 9 and 11, should reach a wide audience.

I also have my own Saturday morning show, Judith Looks at Love and Romance, when I include a guest spot where I invite a musician or singer to come on the show and talk about themselves and their music and I follow the interview by playing one of their tracks.

I am always especially delighted to be able to involve any local talent, so do contact me if you would like the chance to broaden your audience.

You can follow us on Facebook at The Feelgood Station and listen to our Shows either on The Feelgood Station app or on Simple Radio, Deezer and Alexa Skills, as well as on our website thefeelgoodstation.uk Lester and I can be reached there or by Facebook Messenger Or email us at thefeelgoodmorningshow@gmail.com

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East Grinstead Town Crier Issue Six March 2025

Farewell for now!

We hope you enjoyed this issue of the Town Crier.

The April issue is already under construction so please don’t miss out and get your submissions in early.

Browse this website for more info and look out for Town Crier bulletins and updates.

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