EG ISSUE 8 MAY 2025 (2)

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

The Town Crier Serving the communities of East Grinstead, Forest Row, Lingfield and the neighbouring areas

Issue 8 May 2025

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

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Welcome to the May 2025 Issue of the Town Crier !

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

Here is issue 8 of the Town Crier for the communities of the East Grinstead area. I sincerely hope you enjoy reading it.

Submit!

The door is now wide open for your submissions for the June issue. Here’s a rough guide to the type of features we are looking for:

We are blessed with very strong, creative communities and among the facets that exemplify that powerful spirit has been the office of the East Grinstead Mayor, held with such enthusiasm and aplomb this past year by Steve Ody, who must now hand his chain of office to a worthy successor.

•

•

I would like to personally thank Steve for all that he has done to help, encourage and enliven the community and the very fine example he has set.

• • • • • •

And, indeed, for the encouragement and support he has given me in my effort to get this community magazine up and running.

Please do turn to page 4 and read Steve’s warm and heartfelt closing message.

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

And just to reiterate briefly some Town Crier Policies, which have evolved somewhat as the project moves forward:

Columnists

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.

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.

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.

Writing a monthly column is a great way to demonstrate your knowhow and competence and this promotes your product or service.

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!

If you can provide useful monthly tips or advice or other content that could engage, help or empower out readers, I would be interested to hear from you at egtowncrier@gmail.com

To view policies and prices in more detail, go to the website here 2

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Contents A Fond Farewell - Steve Ody page 4 Making it Count Maths Tuition page 7 Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir page 9 French Connection - Tips and Tricks page 10 Nature’s Magic - Gill Bustamante’s column page 11 Lingfield Irish Dancer Double World Champion page 12 Christians Against Poverty page 13 Little Kickers page 14 The Hidden Costs of Working from Home page 15 A to Bee Ecology page 16 Walking the Kingdom page 18 Walk and Talk for Success page 19 Monthly Marketing Tips by Alice Watkyn page 20 French Recipe of the Month page 20 Community First Responders page 21

Beauty Tips with Sarah Dell page 22 Up the Garden Path page 23 Well Healthy with Samantha Ford page 24 East Grinstead Jazz Festival page 25 Introducing Brendoncare Stildon page 26 Happy 4th Anniversary 1 Middle Row page 28 High Street Heroes page 29 Community People page 30

Eaterie of the Month page 31 Alison Earnshaw’s Column page 32 East Grinstead Museum page 33 Portland Vets Petcare column page 34 Humour/satire page 35 Promote Yourself in the Town Crier page 37 East Grinstead Community Bonfire page 38 A Bit of a Fixer Upper? page 39 Learn, Grow and Give Back page 40 May Fair page 41 Spirit of Rebirth page 42 How to Basically page 43 East Grinstead Lions page 44 Vintage Bus Day page 45 3

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

A Fond Farewell Reflections on My Mayoral Year

Youth Club (where the winners proudly wore the Mayoral chain!) to joining the joyful Kidical Mass

by Steve Ody family bike ride – a real celebration of community As I write my final piece for the Town Crier, I do so and sustainable travel. with a heart full of gratitude. What a year it has East Grinstead Rugby Club welcomed players from been! around the UK for the Sunshine 7s – a superb event that has now raised over £500,000 for local Serving as Mayor of East Grinstead has truly been children’s charities. the honour of a lifetime – a joyous, unforgettable journey that I’ve loved every second of.

We also celebrated the 30th anniversary of Vintage Bus Day, the ever-popular Lions May Fair, and the Thank you to each and every one of you for your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. This Girl Guides’ brilliant Mayhem Day at Ardingly Showground. town is exceptional, not just because of its history and setting, but because of its people – and I’ve been The town’s triathlon continues to go from strength privileged to meet so many of you over the past to strength – I was proud to present medals to the year. winners – and our Music and Arts Festival at The final few weeks of my Mayoral year have been Chequer Mead showcased outstanding talent from East Grinstead and beyond. as full and fantastic as ever. One highlight was presenting James Cooper with the Freedom of East I had the pleasure of attending the 1343 Squadron Grinstead – in recognition of his astonishing ATC Annual Dinner, two Mayoral receptions – one achievement of running 366 marathons in 366 days. with East Grinstead Business Association and James, we salute you! another to mark Meridian Rotary’s 39th birthday and their exciting new fundraising campaign.

I’ve also had the great honour of getting to know East Grinstead’s oldest World War II veteran, John And speaking of fundraising – my own efforts to Crocker. At 101 years old, John served in North help Being Neighbourly bring a community trishaw Africa, Iraq, and Italy with the 2nd Battalion, Royal to East Grinstead have been great fun and Sussex Regiment. Thanks to Jane White and the exhausting. With support from South East Water, Regimental Association as John was presented with Meridian Rotary, Chappell & Rice, and many his Regimental tie, beret, and cap badge – a truly others, we made it happen. I even took on an moving moment – John’s medals have also been re- 82-mile sponsored bike ride through Sussex to help turned to him. get over the line!

We later travelled to Chichester for the St George’s We brought the year to a close with a spectacular Day Regimental Service, and I’m thrilled to share Gala Dinner at the Felbridge Hotel – a true celebrathat John was also present at the VE Day tion of the spirit and generosity that defines our Commemoration Service at Westminster Abbey, in town. the presence of Their Majesties the King and Queen.

We owe John and his comrades an immense debt of Thank you, East Grinstead. You’ve made this the gratitude. most extraordinary year of my life. It’s been a privilege to represent you at home and abroad. I Back home, we gathered on King George’s Field for look forward to continuing to serve our community a wonderful VE Day celebration. Thank you to all – just with a little less bling around my neck! who came – the atmosphere was incredible, and the evening ended with a stirring rendition of I Vow To With deepest thanks and warmest wishes, Thee My Country and the lighting of the town Steve Ody beacon – a fitting tribute to those who endured 6 years of war.

East Grinstead Town Mayor (former) My visits continued, from hosting a quiz at the Photo Gallery on next page 4

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

5

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

6

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Exam Prep and Confidence in Maths Maths tutor, Helen Chisholm’s monthly column gives valuable tips on how to excel, or help your children excel at maths.

As exam season approaches, May can feel like a improve with practice”) can calm nerves and shift mountain to climb but with the right preparation your mindset. and mindset every student can approach their maths exams with growing confidence.

Seek support from teachers, tutors, or family you’re not alone.

Whether you’re tackling your SATs, end-of-year assessments, or GCSEs, here are some practical tips The Importance of Practising Past Papers to support both revision and wellbeing.

There is no better way to build confidence than tackling real exam-style questions. Past papers help Top Tips for Revising Effectively you understand the format, time pressure, and how • Break your revision into manageable chunks to apply knowledge in context. and start with the topics you find hardest.

• Short, focused sessions (20–30 minutes) are far Don’t just mark them: go through your errors and more effective than cramming. try the same question again a few days later.

• Use colour-coded notes, flashcards for key Consistency is key. formulas and explain concepts aloud to someone else - it helps cement your understanding.

Finally, remember: confidence doesn’t come from being perfect. It comes from knowing you’ve prepared as best you can.

How to Manage Maths Anxiety It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about maths Every question you practise, every challenge you exams. face, is a step forward. Believe in your progress, and trust the process. You’ve got this!

Remind yourself: anxiety is not a reflection of ability. Reframing mistakes as learning For more information, contact me at opportunities is key. makingitcountmathstuition@gmail.com Breathing exercises and positive self-talk (“I can

7

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

8

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

The Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir Following the Easter break the Crawley Down Ladies Choir returned to singing on their usual practice evening, Mondays at The Haven Centre, Crawley Down.

We are now looking forward to our Summer concert at 7.30 pm on June 14th which suddenly seems much closer, being only a few weeks distant.

On the social side, in early May several members met one evening for the annual choir meal, which was held at The Old Dunnings Mill in East Grinstead and a convivial evening of food, drinks and lots of chat ensued.

After the June concert we will be taking a break for the summer, returning in September to begin practising our new programme of songs for the December concert – I will refrain from using the 'C' word as it is a bit too early for most people.

Having said that, it falls to our Musical Director to plan early so that we know which musical pieces we will be practising when the September term begins, so she has had no choice but to think 'C' things. Someone also has to search out the appropriate pieces.

Yes, it will be Carols and other appropriate songs for us come September.

For more information about our choir please visit our website: crawleydownladieschoir.co.uk

9

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

French Connection: tips & tricks

We are very pleased to feature this monthly column by French tutor, Christine Sotiriou, whose mission is to help you improve your language skills and become the French speaker you want to be. tutor is proving to be a very successful combination for some people. Keeping in mind that repetition is key in learning a language, another great technique is to listen to a French podcast or movie and trying to repeat what you hear immediately. This is perfect to get used to sound, pronunciation sounds.

How to learn French as a mature student?

Not everyone is interested in languages at school.

As you age, you might realise what a missed opportunity that was! But it is never too late to learn. Many people successfully learn new languages after their teenage years. Here are some practical steps to help you on your journey.

6. Be Consistent 1. Start with the Basics If you make learning part of your routine, for To start with, learn common phrases and example at breakfast or on your way to greetings: Start with simple expressions like work, you will progress steadily. Successful “Bonjour!” (Hello), “Ça va?” (How are language learning is all about consistency. you?), Merci! (Thank you!). This will familiarise you with the sounds and are the 7. Join French Communities easiest to use. Secondly, you can focus on A good thing to do is looking for French learning essential grammar and vocabulary: club, conversation groups, or even virtual Get a good French book (I like Beginner groups online.

French workbook by Imane Diouri & 8. Don’t rush the grammar Bilingoal) or an app such as “Duolingo”.

You can communicate early on in your Focus on building up basic vocabulary and learning process with very basic grammar simple structures applicable to your daily like how to ask questions and learning life. regular verbs. Subsequently, you can build 2. Set Realistic Goals the grammar gradually.

It is important to set short-term goals like “I will learn 10 new words every week.” or “I 9. Acknowledge your progress Celebrate having learnt something new or will be able to introduce myself by the end used the language in conversation. This will of the month.” Small, consistent progress motivate you further. will build your confidence and keep you motivated.

10. Travel Give yourself the opportunity to speak 3. Immerse Yourself French with natives in a French-speaking Watching French films should be a weekly country. Short breaks or longer holidays will activity: Start with English subtitles. The motivate you to stick to the French learning first goal is to get familiar with the sounds routine. and pick up some words. Build up from there. Another thing that makes a difference is to listen to French music: you can identify Learning French is a challenge. Anyone can learn with determination and perseverance. Consistency words and sing along. It is a fun learning is the key. Keep going and see you in France or activity and can be done while driving - a another French-speaking country! Bonnes vacances! definite advantage.

(Enjoy your holiday!)

4. Practise Speaking On platforms like “Tandem” or “HelloTalk”, Visit our website and contact us today to you can chat with native French speakers learn more. www.sussexfrenchtutor.co.uk and help them with their English in return. christine@sussexfrenchtutor.co.uk Having a tutor online or in person to practise 07957 418008 speaking is incredibly helpful. Start with Group French Conversation are running now in “Duolingo” for example to get basic Haskins Garden Centre vocabulary under your belt and then seeing a Thursdays 10-11:30 am 10

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

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

Nature’s Magic

by Town Crier columnist, Gill Bustamante

Since I became a keen walker, around 15 years ago, canvases I hope to encourage others to have the the message I promote in my paintings has been same urge to conserve nature that I feel. influenced by what I see in this area.

Who has not felt better by walking in a meadow or England is a very small country and is already woodland? (Especially during covid when many somewhat overcrowded. Landscapes and wildlife people discovered such joys for the first time). suffer for this but rather than reflect the harsh There is magic out there and I try to capture a little realities of our butchered landscapes and beleaguered wildlife, I prefer to see the magic that bit of the joy it gives me in every painting that I make or help someone else to make. is still there behind them.

I hope you get a chance to walk and find your own Nature is a life force and if you seek out the less well trodden paths you will have seen this. I edit out pieces of magic... the old mattresses, barbed wire, discarded bottles Gill Bustamante, artist and art tutor, Forest Row and other crimes and focus on the magic that stands Picture: The Truth Calls – made after a walk I took behind landscapes and animals. near Sevenoaks one autumn.

This is not just fanciful thinking on my part as by trying to capture a moment of magic on my Gill Bustamante - Artist and Art Tutor 11

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Lingfield Irish dancer returns from World Championships a double World Champion 60+) and abilities (complete beginners or returning to dance) to take part in classes, performances, exams and competition - depending on each Tatiana Nesterenko from the Gibbins School of Irish dancer’s goals. First and foremost GSID values the Dance (GSID) in Lingfield has returned home from strong group of local women who take part in our the World Irish Dance Association’s (WIDA) 2025 classes and have built a friendly environment for fun World Championships in Liège, Belgium a double and learning. GSID welcomes newcomers any World Champion. She beat off strong competition in week. both the Under 35s age category for the Solo World Championship and the Over 30s age category for the In particular, we are currently looking for new Traditional Sets World Championship to be crowned dancers who may want to be part of ceili teams World Champion on two consecutive days. ideal for returners to dance to build stamina with traditional footwork, or for fast-learning beginners!

4 adult Irish dancers from GSID went to compete in Belgium from 15th-18th April. The first day GSID also offers children’s classes for girls and consisted of the international grade Feis - a ‘normal’ boys (3-16). competition for the beginner, primary and intermediate dancers. Katie Harcourt-Ellis competed We train on Wednesday evenings at Lingfield in the beginners Under 40s category in a range of College: solo light shoe and heavy shoe dances, in which she 6-6.30pm - Under 7s placed on the podium several times - most notably 6-7pm - Children’s mixed ability class with a 3rd in the slip jig. She also picked up a 5th 7-8.30pm - Adults’ mixed ability class place in the beginner Premiership - a two round 8.30-9pm - Ceili competition in front of 3 judges.

Classes are £7, first class free as a trial.

Faith Scanlon from South Godstone also picked up a For queries, new starters or to book performances, 5th place in the primary premiership, as well as please contact us several solo medals in the under 30 category, at gibbinsirishdance@outlook.com. including a 2nd place.

Caroline Bool recalled in the Over 45s age group in the Open Solo World Championships to be placed 8th in the World - having beautifully danced a 3 round championship plus the modern choreography recall round.

Tatiana Nesterenko’s first triumph came on the Thursday in the Over 30s Traditional Set Championship. She beat competition from several countries to be crowned champion. This event involved all participants learning the same 9 traditional choreographies, of which 3 were randomly selected for the competition.

She followed it up on the Friday with a strong performance in the under 35s Solo World Championship, recalling to be crowned champion after the modern choreography recall round.

GSID joined WIDA due its the inclusive attitude towards adult competitors, and both GSID & WIDA actively encourage adult dancers of all ages (1612

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Five top tips for enjoying a spend-free day this May You might be wondering what you can do to relax without it costing too much.

scrolling through your phone raises anxiety levels, After all, the pressure of added expenditure on an it might be a good idea to switch your phone off, especially if you think you might be tempted to do already tight budget doesn’t exactly boost wellbeing. Rest is vital for good mental health, and a little online shopping as it could quickly turn since Mental Health Awareness Week is happening your spend-free day into a costly one. this month, it’s the perfect time to explore ways to enjoy a spend-free leisure day. At free debt advice Pack a picnic charity, Christians Against Poverty (CAP), we love If you decide to go out for your spend-free day, to find cost-effective solutions, so here are five then avoid expensive food costs by packing a ideas to help you take a break without spending picnic. Bringing snacks and drinks from home will money! ensure you're prepared when you get hungry.

Explore free activities in your area

Discover the many free things to do in your area.

From museums and scenic parks to walking, cycling, or beach trips, a few internet searches and a little planning can uncover an array of options.

Joining community Facebook groups can also be helpful as they often advertise free events. Check newspapers and community magazines or church activity boards for free fun days, festivals and concerts.

This May, consider challenging yourself to prioritise your wellbeing without putting stress on your purse or wallet. Taking some time out could help you stay positive, but if you are struggling with your finances, we encourage you to get in touch.

CAP offers free holistic support to people struggling financially. Visit capuk.org/help to find out more about the help we offer.

Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity Cash-in unused gift cards / reward points Christians working with over 1100 affiliated churches to Do you have any cinema vouchers or gift experience cards that you’ve not yet used (and possibly even forgotten about)? Why not plan a spend-free day using up what you already have? If you collect reward points or cashback you could redeem them and treat yourself completely guilt-free.

Utilise existing memberships

Some people subscribe to things annually but don’t always make the most of them. If you’ve got an existing gym membership that includes access to leisure activities, then you could spend a relaxing day by the pool, or if you belong to a national heritage organisation, then a day trip to an unexplored location might be a worthwhile endeavour. Utilising what you’ve already paid for is a good way of having a spend-free day.

deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more. Visit capuk.org to find out more or contact your local Debt Coach fionastraszynski@capuk.org for an informal chat.

“The budget CAP set for me gave me a plan of attack for managing my money in the future. Now instead of spiralling down, I’m spiralling up! “ Pete, outdoor enthusiast, now debt free

Enjoy time at home

There are lots of things you can do at home to relax – reading, spending time in the garden, the list is endless. Just make sure that if you do opt for a staycation, you eliminate any distractions first. If 13

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

More than just Football

How Little Kickers empowers your kids

Little Kickers started in the UK in 2002.

These transition games mean children as young as two will be able to play independently of their parent or guardian.

We believe football can be educational, in a “play We then have: not push environment”. Coached in the right way it can stimulate imagination and aid early development Junior Kickers classes for 2.5 yrs to 3.5 yrs skills such as learning colours and numbers, old. Play and games are at the heart of everything following instructions and playing as a team. we do.

We have four different football classes each tailored Our games cleverly disguise the learning aspect so to a different age group. However, we have two core the children just think they are playing. The more beliefs that we take into every session. the children enjoy the games, the more they participate.

Key Features of our classes are: This enjoyment leads to greater confidence, which - Weekly classes in turn leads to self-initiated participation and - One coach with up to 12 children OR two coaches independent play. for 13 to 16 children - Each child receives a football kit - 4 unique badges to collect across the Little Kicks programme We have classes running indoors over the winter on a Saturday and Sunday in the Kings Centre. From May onwards we run outside at the Kings Field.

To sign up just go to the Little Kickers website (www.littlekickers.co.uk), click on find a class and input the requested information!

Mighty Kickers classes for 3.5 yrs to 5 yrs old. Mighty Kickers classes incorporate our rounded learning approach of play, practice and understanding.

Play is the motivator and promotes continued and repeated practice. This disguised learning in itself is a powerful tool, however we believe in not only teaching the children how to perform the skills, but also to understand why and where to use the skill in the real world. This transcends all six areas of our curriculum:

Our Little Kicks classes are for children aged from - Personal, social & emotional development, 18m to 2.5 yrs. The main focus of Little Kicks is what we call ‘learning to learn’.

- Communication, language & literacy, Classes involve a number of games that require - Mathematical development, parents to put on their running shoes and get actively involved in the session. However, some games are specifically targeted at developing Continued on next page independence.

14

East Grinstead Town Crier

Little Kickers - continued from previous page - Knowledge & understanding of the World, - Physical development, - Creative development.

Issue 8 May 2025

session and our games are specifically designed for maximum touches of the ball.

The games are progressively challenging, enabling new skills to be learnt each lesson, however children are able to work within their ability.

Children become more competitive at this age and are taught to challenge themselves and one another.

The match becomes the climax of the session and is the perfect outlet for channelling children’s competitive energy as well as transferring their skills into a real-world situation.

Mega Kickers classes for 5 to 8 yrs old. More touches on the ball lead to faster and greater skill gain.

Every child has their own ball throughout the The following item is from the Chamber of Commerce of our neighbouring town of Uckfield. Whilst Uckfield is strictly speaking just outside the area covered by this magazine, I thought the idea was important enough to run it by you in the hope that it will inspire or bring to light similar initiatives. next The Hidden Cost of Working Uckfield, to the Citroen garage (and from Home

possibly more When working from home became the norm, many days if there’s demand). It’s of us embraced it, no commute, more flexibility, and control over our day. But several years in, it’s a calm, creative space becoming clear that it’s not all sunshine and for getting slippers. things done without the isolation. No loud background noise, no Isolation, low motivation, and blurred boundaries pressure, just a refreshing change of scene, a few are quietly taking a toll. Without the rhythm of interaction or a shift in environment, our confidence friendly faces, and the space to breathe. starts to fade. Social skills go a bit quiet. And while the house may be comfortable, it isn’t always good If you’ve started to feel a bit stuck at home, you’re not the only one, and you don’t need to power for our wellbeing. through it alone.

Research is showing what many of us have felt: too Sometimes, stepping out of your house can help much time working alone can impact creativity, you step back into yourself. mental health, and personal growth. It’s not just about getting the job done, it’s about how we feel Want to know more? Call us on 07707 411 942. while doing it.

At The Lounge and Pamper Lounge, we’ve created Work differently. Feel better. a Work Hub that runs Wednesday to Friday here in Find the original here 15

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

May: When the Countryside Hits Its Stride Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

by Ross Symonds, Founder of A to Bee Ecology May is when the countryside really starts showing off—wildflowers are blooming, the hedgerows are buzzing, and the woods are practically humming with life. The landscape is bursting with edible treasures for those who take the time to look. If you’re itching to grab your basket and head out, here are ten fantastic things to forage this month.

Sweet Woodruff’s whorled leaves and tiny white flowers bring a vanilla-like aroma, especially when dried.

Traditionally used in May wine (like a May Bowle), it also makes a lovely addition to desserts. It’s often found in shady, moist woodlands.

Hawthorn Flowers (Crataegus monogyna) by May, hawthorn is in

full bloom, sprinkling hedgerows with clusters of creamy white flowers. The blossoms have a mild, slightly almond-like flavour and are a traditional heart tonic. Add them to syrups, cordials, or even scatter a few over salads. As always, be sure to leave plenty behind for the pollinators.

Nettle Tops (Urtica dioica)

By now, nettles are shooting up everywhere. Aim for the fresh tops—cooking or drying neutralises the sting. Rich in iron and vitamins, they’re brilliant in soups, stews, and even cakes.

Nettles have been used for centuries as a spring tonic, promoting vitality and well-being.

Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Also known as sticky willy, this scrambling plant clings to everything it touches. The young These fragrant, creamy blooms appear tips can be eaten raw in small in large umbels, often filling the air with a sweet, heady scent. Perfect for amounts or made into a detoxifying tea.

Traditionally, cleavers have been used as a making elderflower cordial, lymphatic tonic and diuretic. You’ll find them champagne, or infused honey. The flowers are also anti-inflammatory and can be dried tangled through hedgerows and woodland edges. for teas to support respiratory health.

Elderflowers (Sambucus nigra)

Broom Flowers (Cytisus scoparius)

Wild Garlic Flowers (Allium ursinum)

Broom’s bright yellow flowers are a cheerful sight in May. In May, wild garlic’s star-shaped They can be used sparingly in white flowers are in full swing, salads or as a garnish—just and they’re just as edible as the remember that the seeds and pods are toxic, so stick leaves. With a milder, more floral garlic kick, to the blooms only. Folklorically, broom was used they’re great scattered over salads, blended into for sweeping away negativity and unwanted spirits. pestos, or pickled for a burst of savoury flavour.

Look for them carpeting damp, shady woodlands.

Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) These dainty, three

-leaved plants with delicate white or pale pink flowers have a sharp, lemony taste. Use the leaves sparingly to brighten salads or soups, and try the flowers as a pretty garnish. Be mindful, though—oxalic acid can be harmful in large quantities.

Pineapple Weed (Matricaria discoidea)

A close relative of chamomile, pineapple weed is easily recognised by its small, conical, yellow-green flower heads and its distinctive pineapple scent when crushed. Often found along paths and compacted soil, it makes a lovely aromatic tea and can be used in desserts for a tropical twist. Historically, it’s been used to soothe digestive issues and calm the mind.

Continued on next page

16

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

To Be Ecology - continued from previous page

Mayweed (Matricaria spp.)

Often mistaken for chamomile, mayweed flowers have a similar daisy-like appearance. Their aroma is stronger, and they’re often found in disturbed soil. The flowers can be dried for a calming tea, though the taste can be a bit more pungent than true chamomile.

May Foraging Tips

May is an excellent month to get out and explore, with hedgerows, meadows, and woodlands brimming with life. Just remember to forage responsibly - never take more than you need, always leave some for wildlife, and double-check your plant ID. If you’re keen to learn more about mindful foraging and connecting with nature, check out my Slow Foraging course.

We’ll dive into sensory awareness, plant ID, and creating herbal teas from gathered plants. Find more info on my Instagram at @rosstheecologist or visit linktr.ee/rosstheecologist for upcoming events and workshops.

Happy foraging!

17

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Walking the Kingdom 2015

by Steve Cook

An adventure revisited

I was looking for something else on my computer and found some old pics of the "Walk the Kingdom" caper I did in 2015. On this date ten years ago, at the youthful age of a mere 63, I was about a week into my planned walk of the British mainland coast.

The gig was to walk the entire British coast (about 4K miles) to raise funds for Drug Education for Kids, specifically for my good mate Pete Dwan, former British Thai boxing champion, who at that time was doing superb drug education talks for children.

I wanted to help Pete as best I could because what he was doing was in my opinion so valuable. I have worked in drug rehabilitation - much of which was putting people through drug withdrawal - and seen first-hand the devastating damage drugs can do to their users and such an heroic effort to arm kids with enough knowledge to help them make the right decisions and avoid the deadly trap that drugs comprise was well worth my giving it all the support I could muster.

Well, I wasn’t as good at fisticuffs as Pete nor was I good at giving talks but I realised that (albeit with practice) I could be fairly good at walking.

So that is what I did!

I started in my home town of East Grinstead, walked south to Brighton, turned left at the sea and just kept on walking. I had planned to be the oldest person ever to have done the walk (I was 63 at the time and would have been 64 by the time I finished it).

I got about a quarter of the way - about 1100 miles all around the coast of Sussex, Kent, Essex, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Northumberland etc crossed the Forth Bridge and reached North Queensferry in Scotland before a broken toe forced me to retire (I am a bit of a wuss when it comes to pain).

I have really fond memories of that adventure and would consider tackling it again with the right sponsorship. And I’ll wear better boots and avoid breaking my toe next time.

But here for nostalgia's sake are the pics I found from that escapade. After ten years I can’t recall where three of them were taken. The bloke with the mayoral chain was the Lord Provost of Edinburgh a very, very nice man. The one where I am celebrating by the side of a main road was where I crossed the border into Scotland having walked off my you-know-what for many weeks.

I have a great many fond memories of that adventure. Not least of which is the bountiful kindness of the people I met and was helped by along the way.

Oh, and I also managed to dredge up a large number of the daily video reports I made during the walk.

You can find them on YouTube, here Turn to page 31 for photo gallery 18

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

The Breathing Room: Give yourself Permission to FullyBloom

May's bluebell season has to be my favourite – it’s beautiful but quite fleeting.

They transform entire woodlands into a sea of blue with a scent that is unmistakable – they wow us every year (I have the photos to prove it).

Bluebells show up and they show up in full – no apology or trying to be something they’re not - I love that about nature – it just does its thing in full glory and doesn’t ask for, or expect permission or approval. It just blooms fully, naturally and beautifully.

As humans and particularly for women, we can often hold ourselves back and try NOT to shine too brightly or be ‘too loud’ and I would love us to learn from nature.

During a recent breathwork session, a client had a real ‘aha’ moment. As her breathing deepened, she suddenly realised, "I've been making myself small and hiding for so long that I've forgotten what it feels like to take up my full space."

What if you could be more unapologetic and shine more brightly – make more noise – express yourself What might become possible if you gave yourself fully and completely? permission to fully bloom?

How about imagining what your full-bloom self And breathe! would look and sound like.

Try these: •

Notice where you're holding back in work conversations or relationships

•

Practise speaking with your full voice (try some gentle vocal exercises while breathing deeply)

•

Ask yourself: "What would I do/say/create if I wasn't worried about others' responses?"

Identify one small way to show up more fully this week – in your clothing, your voice, your presence.

Because the world needs to see you in full glorious colour – not a muted version designed to blend in.

Judith Join the next in-person Breathwork Workshop on 18th May at Spirit, Mind & Body Studio, East Grinstead https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ FCF2G33P3DYGA Or book yourself a One2One Breathwork Taster session at an introductory rate of just £25 at my new clinic space in Simply Osteo, East Grinstead https://tidycal.com/judithrayner/ breathworktastersimplyosteo 19

East Grinstead Town Crier

Problem Solving vs.

Pretend Personas Monthly Marketing Tips by Alice Watkyn Most marketing advice tells you to build a detailed customer persona. Name them, imagine their job, their income, their hobbies, the car they drive. It sounds helpful. But for small business owners with limited time, it’s usually a waste.

You don’t need to picture ‘Sarah, a 38-yearold mum who shops at Waitrose’ to write a good sales page.

You need to understand what Sarah’s actually dealing with — and how your business helps her sort it.

People don’t buy because they fit a made-up profile. They buy when you solve a problem or offer a benefit that actually matters. That could mean saving time, removing stress, making life easier, helping them feel good, or getting better results with less effort.

Forget the imaginary backstories. Focus on what’s frustrating them, holding them back, costing them money, or making things harder than they need to be. Then show them how your product or service makes life better.

If you’re a cleaner, don’t say you work with “time-poor homeowners.” Say: “Hate coming home to a messy house? We’ll sort it so you can relax.”

If you’re a web designer, don’t say you help “creative freelancers.” Say: “Sick of wrestling with your website? I’ll build something that works - so you don’t have to.”

It’s faster, clearer, and it connects to human beings. People don’t wake up thinking “I’m a persona.” They wake up thinking “I need a hand.”

Issue 8 May 2025

V

French Recipe of the Month

This month I thought I’d share how to make a mayonnaise, something one cannot do without in France. This is how my mum used to make it and how I make it too. I will put it in English and French just for fun.

Ingredients/Ingrédients 1 egg yolk/1 jaune d’œuf A pinch of salt/une pincée de sel Some pepper/un peu de poivre A spoonful of Dijon mustard/une cuillerée de moutarde de Dijon A few drops of lemon juice/quelques gouttes de citron Vegetable or sunflower oil/huile végétale ou de tournesol, about 300ml/environ 300ml Separate the yolk and the white, keep the white aside for later to use in another recipe if you wish/Séparez le jaune du blanc d’œuf, gardez le blanc d’œuf pour l’utiliser plus tard si vous le désirez.

Put the yolk in a bowl and add a pinch of salt, some pepper and a few drops of lemon juice and mix with a fork/Mettez le jaune dans un bowl, ajoutez une pincée de sel et du poivre ainsi que quelques gouttes de jus de citron, mélangez à l’aide d’une fourchette.

Add the mustard and mix/Ajoutez la moutarde et mélangez.

Add a small amount of oil while mixing continuously/ ajoutez un filet d’huile en mélangeant continuellement.

You should have a thick mixture/le mélange devrait être épais.

Keep adding oil, a bit at time, mixing continuously/ Continuez d’ajouter l’huile, petit à petit, en mélangeant continuellement.

Taste it, add more salt, pepper or lemon juice to taste/ Goûtez, ajoutez un peu plus de sel, de poivre ou de jus de citron selon votre goût.

Et Voilà !

Not sure what problems you solve or what benefits you bring?

Goes well with chips, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, etc/ Accompagne bien les frites, le thon, les œufs cuits dur, etc.

Ask your customers. They’ll tell you.

Enjoy ! Bon appétit !

Alice Watkyn, Mouthy Marketing

Dominique Cook French translator and interpreter domicook64@gmail.com

More marketing tips from Alice in next month’s Town Crier. Stay tuned!

20

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Prevention is Better than Cure A Sun-Safe Reminder from your Community First Responders

Connecting the Dots: What CFRs Often See While we don’t treat skin conditions ourselves, we’re part of a wider community response to As Community First Responders (CFRs), we’re health issues, many of which could be reduced by often the first to arrive when someone in our community is in urgent need. We deal with medical early action. We’ve seen too many situations emergencies, but many of the calls we attend have whether heat-related illnesses or more complex chronic conditions - where the seeds were sown roots in long-term, preventable health issues. months or years earlier.

This May, we saw Sun Awareness Week (5–11 That’s why we believe education and awareness are May) - a national campaign led by the British just as vital as emergency response.

Association of Dermatologists. And with the glorious weather we enjoyed in April, this couldn’t have been a more timely reminder to take sun safety From knowing how to protect your skin to understanding early signs of heatstroke or seriously. dehydration, small steps now can prevent bigger problems later.

Why Sun Awareness?

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK. While not part of our direct scope of care as Health is a Lifelong Investment Sun Awareness Week is just one opportunity to CFRs, we’re big believers in health education remind ourselves that good health starts with the and prevention as the first line of defence. choices we make today.

After all, avoiding harm is a core value in risk As CFRs, we’re not just here for when things go management and prevention strategies - and that wrong - we’re part of the conversation that helps includes knowing when your body needs a break people make healthier decisions before crisis strikes. from the sun.

Many of us love being outside - walking, gardening, So this May, enjoy the sunshine - but do it mindfully. And remember, prevention is always enjoying time with family and pets. better than cure.

These moments are vital for our well-being, and sunshine does have benefits, like topping up our vitamin D and lifting our mood. But there’s a fine balance between enjoyment and overexposure.

Top Tips for Staying Sun-Safe Whether you’re out for a stroll or attending a local event, here are some quick ways to protect your skin and stay safe: • • • • •

Slip on a shirt or protective clothing Slap on a hat to shade your face, ears and neck Slop on sunscreen (SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours) Seek shade during peak sun hours (11am–3pm) Slide on sunglasses with UV protection

Just a few serious sunburns over the years can increase your risk of skin cancer - so it’s never too early or too late to start protecting your skin.

21

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

The Truest Kind of Beauty

Your Skincare and Beauty Tips with Sarah Dell

age or depend on perfect skin.

In a world where beauty is often defined by filters, flawless skin, and fleeting trends, I’m reminded daily that the most powerful transformations have nothing to do with how we look - and everything to do with who we are.

At my beauty studio, I’m lucky enough to witness some incredible skin journeys. Clients walk through my door seeking to address concerns that have sometimes held them back for years - acne, pigmentation, scarring, signs of ageing - and together we work towards boosting their confidence through advanced, results-driven treatments. And while I absolutely love delivering visible results and seeing the joy on someone’s face when they finally feel radiant in their skin, I know that the real magic lies somewhere deeper.

Because the truth is, no transformation will ever be more beautiful than the one that radiates from within.

Everyone deserves to feel beautiful—regardless of how they look. And I want every person who walks into my studio to know that they are welcomed exactly as they are, in whatever season of life they’re in. Whether you’re struggling with your skin or simply looking for a little self-care, I see you.

You are enough.

So thank you, East Grinstead. Thank you for embracing me, for supporting my business and for showing me that real beauty lives in community, in connection, and in compassion. You’ve shown me the heart of this town, and it’s truly beautiful.

If you’re ready to begin your skincare journey - or even just take a moment for yourself - I’d love to welcome you. All new clients receive 15% off all full-priced treatments over £25, and to make things even sweeter, every client who books a 50-minute (or longer) facial during the month of May will receive a complimentary goody bag packed with free gifts, money-off vouchers, and some extra treats to keep the glow going.

Kindness, love, authenticity—these are the traits that leave the most lasting impression. And I feel genuinely privileged to run a business in a town like Book your skincare transformation today and let East Grinstead, where those qualities are in your true beauty shine through because when you abundance. Every day, I am welcomed with feel confident in your skin, you radiate from the warmth, support, and a sense of community that is inside out. so rare and special. I meet people from all walks of life, from all corners of the world, each with their And in the words of the brilliant Roald Dahl: own stories, cultures, journeys, and energy - and I am honoured to welcome every single one of them “If a person has ugly thoughts, it begins to show on into my space. the face… But if you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will It’s a gift to be trusted with someone’s skin, but an always look lovely.” even greater gift to connect on a deeper level. To hear someone’s story, share laughter or tears, and – Roald Dahl, The Twits offer not just a treatment, but a moment of calm and care in a busy world - that, to me, is where the true Love, beauty lies.

Sarah xXx So, while my business is built on transformation, and I take pride in offering high-performance, The SLB Beauty Studio scientifically backed skincare that does change lives today, I want to pause and acknowledge the beauty 30 Railway Approach, East Grinstead, RH19 1BP that can’t be bottled or treated. The beauty of a kind heart, a generous spirit, a warm smile, or a moment SLBBeautystudio.com of vulnerability. The beauty that doesn’t fade with 22

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

23

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Well Healthy

Helping you live a freer, healthier life

This month, Samantha Ford of Unique Welllth presents:

What's in Your Trolley?

The Celery Test and Your Health Have you ever stood in a supermarket and thought, “What should I really be buying to be healthy?”

The problem? We haven’t defined our own version of celery.

Your body is always giving you clues - that afternoon slump, the restless nights, sugar cravings, tension in your shoulders, or that feeling of always being “on.” These aren’t random. They’re stress signals. Learning how to decode them is the first step in creating a personal filter - your own Celery Test - so you can stop guessing and start making This is where the Celery Test could be a solution - a decisions that actually work for you. concept introduced to me in a book by Leadership That’s what I help people do through my Unique expert Simon Sinek “Start with Why”, which I’d WELLth coaching programmes, where we build like to share with you. Maybe sounding a bit your personalised blueprint - clear, practical actions random? Stay with me! that support your energy, improve your sleep, calm Imagine four friends each give you different advice. your nervous system, and help you feel more in One says you need Oreo cookies, another says control.

M&Ms, one suggests almond milk, and the last tells you to buy celery. You go to the shop and buy all It’s not about copying someone else’s version of four. Now imagine someone watching you unpack healthy. It’s about finding yours. Because true your shopping. Would they have any idea what you wellness isn't found in trying harder - it's about believe in? being smarter and we do that by choosing better.

But if you walked out with only celery and almond So, this month, I invite you to look at your own life milk, people could guess — “Ah, they care about through the Celery Test lens. Ask yourself “What healthy eating.” It’s clear. It’s consistent. It aligns am I putting in my trolley?” (literally and figurawith your values. tively) So what does this have to do with your health?

Think about what choices leave you feeling Well, in the real world, your “shopping trolley” isn’t stronger, calmer and more energised — and which just filled with food. It’s packed with daily choices - ones leave you feeling guilty, regretful or just gave a quick ‘fix’? the habits you follow, the boundaries you set, how you spend your time and energy. The Celery Test And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s okay becomes a filter: does this support the kind of life I too. You don’t have to do this alone. want to live? Does this decision align with what Let’s find your version of celery - and build a life truly helps my body feel well and my mind stay that actually feels good to live in. clear?

You’ve likely heard advice from all directions - try this diet, cut out that food, do this kind of exercise, meditate daily, drink more water… the list goes on, and on and on some more! But if you’re anything like the rest of us, all that advice can get overwhelming.

This is where I see so many people struggle especially those of us balancing busy lives, family demands, work pressures, and the constant background buzz of stress. We try to do a bit of everything we’ve heard is good for us. A new sleep routine here, a supplement there, some YouTube workouts, skipping meals, over-caffeinating... and yet, we still feel tired, overwhelmed, or just stuck.

Ready to start filtering the noise and tuning in to what truly works for you?

Get your FREE guide to creating calm in just 10 minutes or have 40 minutes with me to explore what your WELLth journey might look like for YOU, only 4 available a month.

24

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

by singer and broadcaster Jenny Green The second Jazz Festival in East Grinstead is happening from Thursday 14th Aug to Sunday17th August.

Starting with a Gospel Workshop and free concert at St Swithun's Church on the Thursday, it will be followed by our launch night on Friday night.

You will find many venues in town participating with fantastic acts that they have sponsored, with performances in the High Street, down the London Road, Ship Street and down into Dunnings Mill.

We have for the first time a Sunday morning Jazz brunch in the Dorset Arms and of course the popular jazz lunch on the lawns of The Apron Cafe in the Chequer Mead Theatre.

Please look out for our banners and flyers and come and join us this August in making the town come alive with music!

You can buy tickets for Thursday and Friday plus workshops via our web site. Just go here: https:// www.eastgrinsteadjazzfestival.com/ Sunday Lunch on the lawns of the Chequer Mead. Tickets available East Grinstead Jazz Festival 2025 Jazz Lunch with the Jenny Green Quartet • Chequer Mead Theatre

25

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Introducing Brendoncare Stildon There is much more to Brendoncare Stildon in East Grinstead than meets the eye. Tucked away in Dorset Avenue just off London Road, the site features both a care home and extra care apartments for older people.

For more than 20 years, Brendoncare Stildon has been offering high quality care in the town after the site was gifted to the Brendoncare Foundation, a charity which runs care homes and community Katy Miller, Brendoncare Stildon’s General support services for older people in the south of Manager, says: England.

The existing buildings on the site were demolished “We strive to provide a warm, welcoming to make way for a purpose-built 32 bed care home environment where both our residents and specialising in nursing care, and 11 adjoining extra colleagues feel valued. We also know that relatives care apartments at Stildon Mews. On completion, it and loved ones appreciate how we care, and we are proud of the very positive reviews they give us on was opened by HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh, carehome.co.uk.”

Brendoncare’s Patron.

Since its opening, Brendoncare Stildon continues to There’s also much to look forward tothat Brendoncare Stildon. On Monday 16 June, the offer high quality nursing, ensuring that every resident, whatever their needs, receives dedicated, care home will host a special afternoon tea to celebrate carers in the East Grinstead community. personalised care. Types of care it provides are nursing, respite and end of life.

Katy explains: “This is our contribution to Glad to The care home has a friendly, homely atmosphere, Care Week and offers a fantastic opportunity to say thank you to carers for their tireless work which where residents can enjoy socialising with other often goes unrecognised. residents or spending quiet time in their rooms where help is always close by.

“We would love to hear from anyone who would like to nominate a local carer to come and join us The residents enjoy a wide range of activities, on this special afternoon.” which, in the past, have included an evening of horse racing at Lingfield Park. Recently, residents Katy adds that the care home is currently putting enjoyed a visit to a local pub. the finishing touches to an activity hub, which, when opened, will offer local people a chance to Visitors to the care home include volunteers from join in their seated exercise activities.

East Grinstead Museum and Kiddleydivey, which provides fun-filled lively and imaginative music memory sessions. Art, baking and seated exercise sessions are also popular activities the residents enjoy, while many like helping out in the garden.

On Saturday 26th July, Brendoncare Stildon will host its annual Summer Fete, which will feature some fun entertainers and activities for all the family. Everyone is welcome.

Extra care housing is available at Stildon Mews. It Brendoncare Stildon is always happy to hear from enables people to continue leading active, people who would like to volunteer at the care independent lives in their own homes with access to home, supporting residents and the care team with a personal care and support 24 hours a day. range of activities.

Each of the 11 two-bedroom apartments have a fully-fitted kitchen, spacious bathroom, a patio if they are on the ground floor or a view across the attractive gardens. There is also easy access for wheelchairs.

To find out more about Brendoncare Stildon and how it can help you or your loved ones, please visit the website: https://brendoncare.org.uk/ carehomes/west-sussex/stildon/ or call 01342 305750.

See photo gallery on next page 26

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Katy Miller

27

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Happy 4th Anniversary, One Middle Row! One Middle Row turned 4 this year under the helm of Nikki Todd.

I’m a regular there and had the great pleasure to be invited and celebrate the day with Nikki, her team and a lot of other people!

Of course, the spread was delicious and plentiful, prepared by Nikki herself and the prosecco cocktail kept on flowing.

It was a very relaxed friendly afternoon, with friendly people and great conversations!

The day also gave us the chance to bid a fond farewell to the lovely Ella (see the pictures below) who is moving on after many years. Her infectious warmth and sunny smile will never be forgotten. Thank you for being there, Ella!

28

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

29

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

30

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Walk the Kingdom photo gallery Full story on page 18

Me with Pete at my send-off in East Grinstead High Street

On a path by the River Humber

With the Lord Provost of Edinburgh

The day I reached Scotland

Also by the Humber (the bike isn’t mine - honest!)

anywhere (see photo) and the quiches were Eaterie of the Month delicious. In fact we were so enthusiastically them I almost forgot to take a photo before The Emerson College Café scoffing it was all gone - hence the picture below of the as-yet-uneaten remnant (sorry about that).

The Emerson College café in Forest Row is just off We will for sure be going again very soon and the the Hartfield Road and well signposted so it is easy Emerson College Café is an eaterie we have no to find. reservations about recommending We went there on Friday for an early lunch and were pleased to discover a neat, clean café in very peaceful surroundings.

The service was prompt and friendly, the prices very reasonable considering the high quality of the coffees and quiches we ordered.

The cafe mocha was one of the best we’ve had 31

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Clocks and Best Foot Forward!

Town Crier columnist Alison Earnshaw enjoys a Spring visit to Crawley Spring seems to have been a long time coming this year, I think we can all agree on that. And yet, as if by magic, we’re finally there! The clocks have Sprung Forward, bringing with them a rather nice spell of weather and that haze of gentle green clothing donned by the grey branches before the leaves fully emerge on the trees in all their vibrant Summer finery.

I seem to have hibernated even more than usual since the turn of this year; perhaps that’s why it’s felt like such a long haul to reach the new season. I was gifted an Amaryllis that came with instructions to leave in a cool, dark place for 10 weeks over Winter, to be brought back into the sunlight in Spring to flower anew in all its glory. Likewise, it did seem as though it was time for me to get back outdoors and turn my face to the sun. So to stretch the old legs I ventured rather further than my usual East Grinstead ‘home stretch’ of ‘The Worth Way’.

Formerly a railway track, this amazing local resource forms a 7-mile long multi-use path, winding like a ribbon through an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Sussex countryside. Designated a ‘wildlife corridor’, it’s the enduring silver lining to the 1960s Beeching railway route cuts.

The Worth Way is well-used and appreciated in all seasons; a favourite of walkers, cyclists, joggers and a full Cruft’s worth of different waggy-tailed dogs… all human and canine life is there! Now Spring’s here, there are catkins, primroses and bluebells with lots of very active bird-nesting in the hedgerows. Inspired to explore further I made my way one afternoon to the Crawley Down section; a short hop by car and the first thing to welcome you in the village centre is the Holy Grail of free parking! From there I walked with a friend along The Worth Way for a couple of miles in the Crawley direction, then made a circuit back to Crawley Down ready for a look around the village.

The first thing to catch my eye was a splendid map

by Sussex artist Helen Cann, who specialises in these pictorial maps illustrating local history. Informative and joyful, it provides an interesting central focus for the village. Small local shops appeared to be doing a bustling trade and atop the post-box on the day I visited there was a jaunty knitted Easter bonnet being admired and photographed by passers-by.

Grinstead for that well-earned refreshment. ‘The Village Brew’ coffee shop is just the ticket and clearly a popular watering hole on the Worth Way cyclists’ route. With plenty of seating inside and out, they have a good choice of beverages; also cakes and light meal edibles should you feel so inclined. I certainly did feel so inclined and jolly nice it was too! My companion and I shared a cinnamon bun which arrived at our table warm and flavoursome… next time I think we’ll go for one each.

Next on the itinerary, a stroll in the other direction down to Crawley Down Pond. No herons or kingfishers that day, although I’m told they do make the occasional appearance. The Pond is a pleasant and tranquil spot; I’d read a little about it on the aforementioned village centre pictorial map and was inspired to research further. It was originally one of five ornamental lakes created in the 1800s on the local Tiltwood Estate, then owned by the intriguingly named and somewhat James Bond villain-sounding George Scaramanga!

Making my way back to the car, I was fascinated and moved to see the Crawley Down Memorial Society commemorative blue plaques on various cottages, in memory of those who had once lived there and lost their lives over a century ago in The Great War. I wonder how different the village ambiance I’d just enjoyed would have appeared to them in the days when Crawley Down was the home they had to leave behind.

All in all, a really lovely afternoon out with a little bit more Spring in my step than over the past few chilly months. While I’m not sure I can match up to the Amaryllis in the emerging from hibernation stakes, I think I’ve at least made a bit of a start in Crawley Down!

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

Time for a pit stop; no need to drive back to East 32

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

33

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

34

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Revealed: the historical roots of fact checking This article has been thoroughly fact checked and had all verifiable facts removed

by Steve Cook Amid the current furore over "fact checking" by Facebook, the media and other bastions of righteousness that have never been known to tell fibs, it has been forgotten that Fact Checking is far from new.

Recently unearthed documents, discovered by researchers in an old hat box that had They have consulted ye experts of ye Inquisition been gathering dust in the basement of Tower of which be ye most thorough repositrie of veritie London, reveal that fact checking dates from the known to Man, and have thereby proven Middle Ages when it was used extensively to relieve conclusivelie that ye Sun goeth around ye Earth but the minds of the hoi poloi and riffraff of the burden avoideth Englande. of heresy.

For his crime most heinous Mr Galileo hath been As you know, heresy is synonymous with lying, ordered to be suspended for a term of six months whilst gainsaying the assertions of the Very Best until he cometh to his senses. If he feeleth this People is as bad as terrorism and this, evidently, has penaltie be too harsh, Mr Galileo may lodge an always been the case. appeal to have it commuted to suspension by ye thumbs instead of ye genitals.

We cite here the translation from the Latin of two ancient parchments now safely installed in the And the Second: British Museum's, "Thought Control Through the Ages" section. Both were originally issued by "Ye Behold, the Almanac of Ethelbert Nutter, part-time Office of ye Grand Inquisitor, Department of ye blasphemer of Chipping Sodbury doth contain ye Wytch Burnings and ye Facte Checkinge" in 1492 FAKE NEWS. and 1528 respectively.

His spurious and mischievous claim that ye Earth be The First Document says: probablie "at least a half a million years olde" be FALSE. Hear ye O men of faith, ye statement by ye heretic Simon Galileo of ye Borough of Scunthorpe that ye Ye Facte Checkers of ye Most Holy Inquisition have Earth goeth around ye sun be FALSE. examined these claims most thoroughlie and without bias or agenda of any kind and found that they be It hath been thoroughlie FACTE CHECKED by ye without foundation or truth. completely sensible facte checkers of ye Order of ye Brothers of Veritie, which be renowned for its Ye science be settled on ye matter and for his false impartialitie in matters of ye Truth. claims ye aforementioned Nutter be roundly condemned and equalie roundly set on fire.

Ye Order of ye Brothers of Veritie hath been established last Michaelmas Eve for ye purpose of Genghis Kant: A novel by Steve Cook. defending ye righteous from ye onslaught of ye Features incredibly alien household appliances unapproved factes. Its Holy Fact Checkers are and edible musicians. completelie worthy of thy trust for they have credentials most impeccable, although these and Available in paperback and e-book or injected their identities must be withheld for reasons of straight into your brain. Find out more here. securitie.

35

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Phone: 07948702788

Translations into and from French 30 years experience Turnaround and prices to suit your needs WHETHER YOU NEED THE TRANSLATION OF : • • •

“I have recommended your excellent services as a translator, thank you once again for your help.”

A website Training manuals House purchase agreements

OR Calls made to French-speaking countries I can help!

I cater for businesses, large or small, as well as private individuals, keeping my prices competitive while understanding that speed is of the essence. Of course, quality will never be sacrificed in the process.

QUALIFICATIONS • Holder of the Diploma in Translation from the Chartered Institute of Linguists • Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists • Translating professionally since 1995 •

Level 3 community interpreter

NO AGENCY FEES

"Dominique has been helping us negotiate some of the more incomprehensible areas of French red tape for some years now! We would have found things a lot more difficult, if not impossible, without her willing & able assistance."

"Dominique is super friendly so I can recommend her for calls and/or translations!"

EXPERIENCE

When dealing directly with the translator, you benefit from:

•

REVIEWS

•

Technical

•

Legal

•

More affordable prices

General and business correspondence

•

A more personal service

•

•

Availability outside normal working hours to speak with you when necessary

• •

Brochures

•

•

Websites

House sale documents Birth, marriage and death certificates

Visit to your home or office if necessary to go over your requirements 36

CONTACT ME NOW! Dominique Cook French translator since 1995 MCIOL, DipTrans, CIOL Phone: 07948 702788 Email: domicook64 @gmail.com

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Promote Yourself in the Town Crier

Become a Columnist

Another way to promote your enterprise (whether for-profit or not-for-profit) is to become a columnist for the magazine providing a monthly article that gives people advice and tips from your area of expertise - a great way to promote your competence and good will. In exchange for providing interesting material for our readers and perhaps a small donation you get monthly free advertising. To apply to have a column please email the editor at egtowncrier@gmail.com and we’ll give your proposal fair consideration.

If you belong to or are active in the communities embraced by this magazine, you can promote yourself, your community activity, charity, club society, special interest, hobby, cause célèbre or small local business in it.

Free promotion

If you are a charity or not-for-profit club, society, association or group, you can promote free of charge. In exchange, if you can contribute a small donation this will be appreciated. Donations are not obligatory but in the interests of fairness, those who have helped with donations will, where need Paid Advertising in the Town Crier In order to avoid becoming just another advertiser arises, be given priority in proportion to their over-filled with ads, we are making only a limited generosity. amount of space available for advertising. This amounts to the equivalent of one page of As we want to avoid the Town Crier becoming advertising for every four pages of articles. It is to just another advertiser in which articles play second-fiddle to advertisements, we ask that where the benefit of advertisers in any case to have a possible you submit an article about your charity, magazine full of content people will want to read without a barrage of advertisements competing for activity, event and so forth that will provide an interesting and engaging read. Such articles can be their attention. any length up to about 600 words and should be Advertising costs are being kept low and amount accompanied where possible with some pictures to the equivalent of roughly £10 or less per week that will help grab attention plus any contact/ website/social media details you would like people for a quarter page ad. Our full pricing structure can be found here to have.

Having said that, we will also do our best to place To give further value for your paid advert, while your announcements, event promo and so forth so you have a paid ad running in the magazine we will not run a paid ad for a competitor selling the please do send them in. same product or service. Where your ad clashes with a free advertorial by a competitor the Best formats for images are JPEG and PNG. advertorial will be placed in a different part of the magazine and every effort made to have your paid Free Promotion for Local Businesses ad appear earlier in the magazine. Our policies If you are a local for-profit operation we will regarding paid advertising are further explained provide one free advertorial-style article per here business. As described above we are looking for something that will engage, inform, inspire or We have also made advertising space available on interest our readers. Length can be up to 600 the Town Crier website. See the details here words, which would give you a full page of free advertising. Please also provide some pictures and The door is also open for you to submit humorous/ full contact/website/social media details. satirical articles, poetry and verse, “how-to” tips Alongside the opportunity for a free advertorial we and advice, interesting/entertaining news and also provide very affordable advertising space (see titbits, recipes etc and if we publish your below). submission you can include a link to the website of your choice.

37

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

38

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

A Bit of a Fixer Upper?

I don’t know about you but I’d have thought twice before I bought a property in that condition . . .

UPCOMING EVENT, GIG, BASH, HAPPENING OR DO? TELL THE COMMUNITY ABOUT IT CONTACT THE TOWN CRIER EDITOR AT EGTOWNCRIER@GMAIL.COM 39

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

40

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

MAY FAIR 2025 To commemorate this year’s lovely May Fair, here are some pictures by the Town Crier’s ace photographer, Russell Prain.

41

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Spirit of Rebirth

With the countryside in all its majesty coming to life, I thought it fitting to celebrate our local Wildlife’s annual rebirth through the magical lens of photographer, Russell Prain. Enjoy!

42

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

This monthly column is very kindly provided by Justin Kelly of How To Basically.

This month: Plumbing Plumbing can seem like a daunting task but with a few basic skills and tools you can tackle many of the jobs to keep your home in good order. It’s best to fix small problems before they become big ones! Even if you’re not planning to do any plumbing, one of the key things to know is how to turn off the water.

There are three ways: 1. Underneath many taps there’s an isolator valve which looks like this: The flat head slot on it can be turned with a screw driver. When it’s in line with the pipe the valve is open whereas if it’s across the pipe (as in this picture) then the valve is closed. You can also restrict the amount of water running through by putting the screw in a diagonal position.

Alternatively to the slotted valve there may be a simple thumb lever to turn instead. Once the water is turned off you could then take apart the fitting that’s on the end e.g. a tap that needs fixing.

2. To turn off all the water to your home you need to find the stopcock: If there’s no isolator valve to a fitting or you have a burst pipe/leak you’ll need to turn off the water by turning the tap clockwise all the way. In any event it’s a good idea to turn this all the way off and then on again every year to ensure it does not cease up (more likely in areas with hard water). Don’t turn it all the way on so if it become seized you’ll still have some wiggle room either direction. Check too that the gland in the centre and the Philips screw on the top are both tight. If the stopcock itself is leaking then you’ll need to turn off the water via the mains stop valve first. Then loosen the large nut with a spanner and water pump pliers, unscrew the tap and remove the entire stopcock and spindle, remove and replace the old rubber washer, wrap PTFE tape clockwise around the spindle and replace the fibre washer, just above the washer, then replace the spindle and retighten the nut.

You’ll need to lift the cover and turn off the tap/lever. This meter belongs to the water company so only touch it as a last resort in an emergency. You may need a special tool to turn the lever:

These can also be useful for reaching stop cocks hidden at the back of cupboards!

In addition to the three ways described, there may also be a valve at the hot water supply tank to turn off. When they next visit, ask your plumber where this is. Once you’ve turned off the water then you can handle simple jobs. Have a towel and bowl available to catch any excess water from loosened pipes.

Tightening a wobbly tap: apart from being annoying a wobbly tap can work loose other parts so best to tighten it. Run the tap to make sure the water is off. Then you’ll just need to get under the sink and see how the tap is tightened to the surface, it will either be with a wide nut for which you’ll need a basin wrench: You flick the grip one way to tighten a nut and the other way to loosen it.

Alternatively a monoblock tap (i.e. one unit for both hot and cold water) will be fixed with a long securing bolt that can be adjusted with a monobloc socket set like this: Just push the one that fits on and turn with the (tommy) bar provided.

Fixing a dripping tap: first turn off the water and put the plug in (as you don’t want any bits falling down the plug hole). You then need to play detective to see how the top of the tap is secured.

There may be a cap to take off with a flat head screwdriver (being careful not to scratch the tap) or there may be a small hexagonal nut to undo with a small Allen key. Take a photo of each stage as a reference for re-assembling. Whilst holding the tap (so as not to strain it), unscrew the tap cartridge with an adjustable spanner:

3. If the stopcock is faulty or you can’t find it then to turn off all the water you need to find the mains stop valve in the street. This may be under a cover looking something like this:

Continued on next page 43

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

How to Basically continued from previous page Once you’ve removed the cartridge it’s best to take it to a plumbing shop to get an identical replacement. They come in lots of shapes and sizes so it’s easy to order the wrong one! Insert the new cartridge and tighten it and then a little bit more.

When fitting the tap handle be mindful of the spindle which dictates where the play of the tap is orientated.

Radiators: bleed radiators to ensure there’s no air in them. First check what your working pressure is at the boiler and know how to add water to the system:

When the heating system is off, go to a radiator and bleed the excess air out of it: place a cloth under the nut and unscrew with a vent key: just enough to allow any air to escape.

When water starts to come out, tighten the screw. After doing one radiator go back to your boiler and repressurise it to the correct level before bleeding the next radiator.

For a hands on in person plumbing class visit How To Basically’s workshop near Scaynes Hill (check out www.howtobasically.co.uk).

Melvin Jones award East Grinstead & District Lions President, Sharan Billings, was delighted to award long-time member, Keith Pratt, with the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for the dedication and humanitarian service he has given to the Lions over many years.

Keith instigated the Prostate Screening Day and ran the event for a number of years; an event which has undoubtedly saved many lives.

This year's event will be held at The Meridian Hall, East Court on Saturday18th October.

New members

Recently, East Grinstead & District Lions President, Sharan Billings, was delighted to welcome new members June and Pat to the Club.

Pat and June came along to a Volunteers Fair and after chatting to Lion volunteers, asked to come along to a number of Business and Committee Meetings. They like to be busy and have already played an integral part at numerous events. www.eastgrinsteadlions.co.uk 44

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

VINTAGE BUS DAY What a fabulous day we all had at the Vintage Bus Running Day recently. The weather brought out the crowds and the Lions had a busy day on their refreshment stall!

45

East Grinstead Town Crier

Issue 8 May 2025

Farewell for now!

We hope you enjoyed this issue of the Town Crier.

The June 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.

46