The Town Crier
Online Community Magazine for East Grinstead, Lingfield, Forest Row, Copthorne, Crawley Down, Turners Hill, Ashurst Wood, Newchapel and the surrounding areas Issue 22, July 2026
Hello!
issue
of the Town Crier
The cover photograph is by our resident genius with a camera, East Grinstead photographer, Russell Prain. Find him on Instagram.
If you are a local charity, community activist, club, artist or businesses, your news, announcements and communications with your community are important and the Town Crier is the place to make yourself known.
For its fast-growing readership, that means a wealth of interesting articles, features and local news for you to enjoy.
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, we provide space for you to advertise at very affordable rates which you can find here.
The door is now wide open for your submissions for theAugust 2026 issue so don’t miss out, send us your contributions today!
For more information, explore the Town Crier website or Email: egtowncrier@gmail.com
In this issue …
Local Artist of the Month page 3
Dormansland YWI page 4
Roger Lyon on Computer Updates p 9
EG Jazz Festival page 11
Crawley Down Ladies Choir page 12
Trek the Sahara . . . page 14
Forest Row Repair Café page 16
East Grinstead Memorial Estate page 19
Dear Editor . . . page 21
Rotary Meridian page 22
The East Grinstead Society page 23
Making it Count Maths Tuition page 24
Let’s Go to Market! page 25
East Grinstead 10K Community Run p 27
East Grinstead Community Bonfire p 28
Feelgood Radio page 31
ChristiansAgainst Poverty page 32
Greenstede Quilters page 34
Eatery of the Month page 36
The Left Bank of Worlds page 38
Meridian FM page 40
East Surrey Council Update page 41
HerMove Inspires East Court Live p 42
EG and District Lions page 43
Sackville School page 43
Lingfield Farmers Market page 44
LocalArtist of the Month Madeline Shepherd
I am a bit of a ‘newbie’ at this painting lark. I have never been trained and, for a long time, I was rather put off trying by people who had been and who were a bit ‘sniffy’ about my efforts.
Several years ago at a craft supplies fair, I encountered an artist called Terry Harrison, who was explaining the use of different types of brushes and was inviting the public to ‘have a go’. I was much too shy to try in case I made a mess of it so I watched from a distance, but I did buy a set of brushes and one of his step-by-step books. These sat on the shelf for quite some time before I plucked up the courage to try them. The results were okay, but there seemed to be something missing.
Some time later, I heard that Terry Harrison was holding a one-day tutorial in East Grinstead and, as I liked his style of painting, I signed up. Well, he made it such fun as he guided us step by step (in between bouts of laughter) that to my amazement, I ended up with a very
acceptable painting.
For someone who can’t draw anything in proportion, the most important thing I learned from the tutorial was being told – it doesn’t matter how you get the initial outline down on paper (or canvas). You can trace it, use ‘trace down’ (carbon) paper, project the image and draw round it, and so on. As Terry said ‘It’s not cheating, all artists do it sometimes, even if they won’t admit it.
Since then, I have sold my paintings at craft fairs and, since I joined East Grinstead Art Society three years ago, at their displays and exhibitions.
I am happiest painting landscapes and seascapes, but I have also done commissioned pet portraits. I am fascinated by clouds and waves, which can be really dynamic.
I work mostly in acrylic, because it is easier to correct mistakes(!), but I do attempt watercolours and am always learning more about this from the
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online tutorials, which Terry Harrison recorded before he sadly passed. He encouraged students to email in examples of their work and he would pick out some of them every month to discuss and sometimes give his opinion on different ‘tweaks’ which would improve them. It was the biggest surprise of my life when he said of one of mine, that ‘it was better than his own first attempt at that subject’.
I have also learned a lot from the many artists who give monthly demonstrations at East Grinstead Art Society on all different types and styles of painting and in many types of media.
Being a photographer, I am seldom without my trusty camera, on the lookout for interesting scenes and different angles that I can turn into paintings back at home.
I don’t paint out in the open where people can watch – I’m not that confident! For anyone who has always wanted to paint – just give it a go – believe me, if I can do it, anyone can.
Dormansland YWI
News Update by Marion Hornall
We are hoping that everyone is enjoying the summer weather and that it last for the next few months.
The past few months have been busy, with our cocktail making, the Morris Men and the fundraising fete in the Memorial Hall.
July has brought some colour to our house or gardens by painting our terracotta pots which was fun, we had some great results.
This month has seen us arranging a local walk , ending up in a local pub for a drink and spending some time chatting to end the evening.
As Autumn is approaching, in September we have arranged a talk about MGM Musicals, which should be entertaining hearing about life on film and the
glamourous lifestyles
In October, we have arranged for someone to come and inform us about scams and frauds and how to protect yourself, something we all need to be aware of.
We always like to welcome new members to our meetings which are held at Parish Rooms in The Platt at 8.00pm usually on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.
If you would like more information, please contact us on the membership enquiry on the website or call Fiona on 07836 334794. Our full meeting schedule and information about the subgroups can be found on our website. www.ywidormansland.org.uk.
The Town Crier Issue 22, July 2026
Not a Lot of People know this but . . . Roger Lyon provides a fascinating insight
into computer updates
Computer updates have often been fairly dull affairs.
Your machine would announce that “important updates are available”, restart at an inconvenient moment, and eventually surface having jiggled things about a bit. These days updates have increasingly become the delivery method for entirely new and unexpected capabilities, including artificial intelligence. A recent Google Chrome browser story illustrates this.
Security researchers recently found that some versions of Chrome would quietly download a local AI ‘model’ called Gemini Nano. The huge files were installed without any prominent explanation. Gemini Nano can be useful - it powers AI features directly on the device, potentially improving speed, scam detection, and even privacy by reducing reliance on cloud processing. However, it was presented as a browser update rather than installing an AI platform.
This ‘update’ could cause problems, if only from its size. For example, if you were using mobile data or on a limited connection abroad, an‘update’ of this scale could easily consume your allowance and land you with a nasty bill.
In a similar vein, Microsoft introduced its Recall feature for Windows 11. Recall was designed as an AI-assisted memory system that periodically captures snapshots of activity on your screen so that you can later search through what you were doing.
For example, you can ask the computer “find the spreadsheet I was working with on Thursday with the blue background”.
Recall was a neat idea but initially there was little communication to explain its privacy implications. Security researchers quickly pointed out that if a computer is continuously recording your screen, it may also be
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storing passwords, banking information, confidential documents and private conversations. Concern grew when it became clear that early versions of Recall did not encrypt the images it collected. Microsoft subsequently revised Recall, making it easier to disable and encrypted its snapshot data.
New features like these are often launched with a sense of urgency - and there is urgency from the manufacturers’ perspective as they try to capitalise on their investment in AI.
In the enthusiasm to release their software quickly, even substantial companies like Microsoft and Google are missing occasional corners in their communications, security and privacy planning.
It is not always easy to avoid these situations. Few people read release notes, which may not be wonderfully informative, and I would be amazed if anyone reads the lengthy software agreements in full. Ironically, in this area AI may provide part of the solution.
AI tools can rapidly analyse documents such as software agreements, privacy policies and update notes before you accept them.
Instead of attempting to read forty pages of dense legal language, you can paste the text into an AI assistant for answers to such questions as:
• “What data does this collect?”
• “What are the main privacy concerns?”
• “Are there many problems reported for this update?”
Similarly, when major updates appear, you may like to pause briefly before clicking “Accept”. A quick online search for “privacy concerns” or “what changed in this update” may reveal useful information and help to shield you from the painful edge of technology.
Roger Lyon is the proprietor of East Grinstead-based
RL Computer Solutions
Join us for the East Grinstead Jazz Festival
Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August
All profits go to our charity partner Being Neighbourly. A local charity network to aid practical support to those that need it in the area.
Tickets for the following are available via our website.
• Saturday Workshops Jazz Singing, Drums - Glen Vue Community Centre
• Friday Gospel Workshop plus a Free Gospel Concert - St Swithun's
• Saturday Evening Headline show Jazz Africa! - St Swithun's
• Sunday Jazz Lunch on the - Chequer Mead lawns
• Sunday Morning - Jazz Brunch Carlo Lounge (FREE)
• Just added! Jazz on a Summer's Day film - Atrium Cinema.
Join us in the High street from 10am and join the Free Jazz Trail
Check out all the details on our website
"We might be a small festival, but we're big on talent, atmosphere and community "
The Crawley Down Ladies Choir summer concert was held on Saturday 13th June in the Dorothy Hatswell Hall at The Haven Centre starting at 7.30pm when we performed a variety of songs from stage musicals and films to pop and more.
Plus there were our 3 guest acts, two solos and a duet. The concert feedback was extremely positive and luckily it was held before the June heatwave started. Our thanks to everyone who came along and supported us.
We are currently on our summer break, returning in September to begin practicing the programme for our next concert on 12th December. No prizes for guessing the theme - yes it's “Ch****m*s” songs and carols.
Although early in the year, some of us will already be immersed in the subject, planning the content and removing the sheet music in advance of our return to practice evenings for example. We will be holding another “Come and Sing” event at 7.30pm on the first evening of our return, Monday September 7th, when we invite anyone interested in joining us to do just that - Come and Sing with
us with a view to joining a friendly group of ladies who sing for the sheer joy of it, socialising and making new friends along the way.
We can be found in the Birch Room at The Haven Centre, Crawley Down.
for more information about the choir please see our website at:
crawleydownladieschoir.co.uk
Trek the Sahara for St Catherine’s Hospice
St Catherine’s Hospice is hosting an incredible six-day sponsored trek across one of the world’s most iconic landscapes - the Sahara Desert - in November 2027 and the local charity is looking for 28 adventurous people to join them.
Travelling between Wednesday 3 and Monday 8 November 2027, the trekkers will cover more than 40km through the Sahara Desert, alongside fellow fundraisers, sharing experiences, encouragement and achievements along the way. From rolling golden dunes to stunning sunsets and star-filled desert skies, this is a once in a lifetime adventure to be remembered forever. Evenings are spent camping beneath the breathtaking desert sky, enjoying traditional food and hospitality, and experiencing the camaraderie that comes from facing a challenge together with like-minded people.
With limited spaces available, it’s an unforgettable way to experience an amazing journey whilst raising money to support the local hospice. Stepping outside their comfort zone and making a lasting difference, every step the trekkers take and
every pound they raise will help provide compassionate, specialist palliative and end of life care to families across the communities of West Sussex and East Surrey when they need it most.
Emma Butler, Events Fundraiser, is managing the trek for St Catherine’s. She said, “No previous trekking experience is required, so whether you are a seasoned trekker, or just starting out, you are welcome on this trip. This is more than just a trek – it’s a chance to challenge yourself, remember someone you love if you wish, and raise vital funds so that St Catherine’s can continue providing specialist care to those who need it most”.
Interested in finding out more? St Catherine’s is hosting an exclusive information evening on Wednesday 15 July at 6.30pm at the hospice.
The information evening offers the opportunity to hear more about the trek from partner travel company, Different Travel, and to learn how St Catherine’s
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Fundraising Team will offer support with fundraising for this epic challenge. The evening will also provide an opportunity to hear from a supporter who has trekked previously for the hospice as they share their experience.
Bookings for the trek will also open at the information evening.
To attend the trek open evening at St Catherine’s Hospice, Grace Holland Avenue, RH11 9SL, please contact Emma Butler in St Catherine’s Fundraising Team on 01293 447361, fill out the online form or email mailto: events@stch.org.uk
Meet the Menders at Forest Row Repair Café
As part of an ongoing series, Fleur Britten meets the café’s gifted sewing volunteer, Angela Davis.
There’s always a wonderfully warm, gentle atmosphere in the fabrics corner of Forest Row Repair Café. It has the ease of a friendship that’s been nurtured over four decades, between one of our star sewists, Angela Davis, and our brilliant darner Libby Sheen. They met through Forest Row’s Steiner school, Michael Hall, where both taught handwork –sewing, knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving etc – and both sent their children.
Angela has been volunteering at the Repair Café (with Libby, of course) since its very first day, back in 2017. Inevitably, many of Angela’s now-adult pupils come in with love-worn clothes to fix, so there’s often a friendly reunion, and, sometimes – admits Angela –a kind admonishment: “I have said to some, ‘You are capable of doing that!’” But people regularly bring in precious family pieces that deserve Angela’s expertise, so understandably her capable hands are preferred.
As the youngest of six children, Angela learnt her craft at home. “My father – an aircraft engineer –had a concert party [a small touring company that would put on variety entertainment – singing, dancing, acting]. We always made the costumes. My mother sewed and crocheted, and we all just picked it up by osmosis.” Angela finessed her skills with a three-year fashion design course, where she discovered a rare talent for patterncutting by eye. Unsurprisingly, when she joined Michael Hall, she was soon costume-designing for its many theatrical performances, and over the years has made thousands of complex pieces. Indeed, she’s still busy with it now, despite retiring from teaching 12 years ago.
Evidently the teaching bug never quite leaves, either: Angela’s Repair Café customers often depart with new knowledge – and limiting beliefs unpicked. “It can
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Meet the Menders continued from previous page seem as if some people have been programmed to think that they can’t do things, so I might say, ‘Yes, you can. Here’s a needle, you just need to do this.”
The next Repair Café will be on Saturday 18th July at the Community Centre, Forest Row RH18 5DZ. 10am-1pm with last orders at 12.30pm.
See article on page 27. Visit website for more information The best way to get in touch is to email: mailto:info@eastgrinsteadrunners.co.uk or phone Jim (Club Chairman): 07843 270081.
The East Grinstead Memorial Estate
During the immediate post-war years, thanks to the generosity of local philanthropist Alfred Wagg, activity took place to create a public recreational amenity in the form of the East Court Estate. The Estate is situated within easy walking distance of East Grinstead town centre and bounded by Blackwell Hollow, the Holtye Road (A264) and Estcots Drive.
There were grand plans for the development of the site drawn up by a well-respected London architect, Louis Osman, but a lack of capital scaled back the proposed schemes. Even so, local residents will be able to recognise key features of the original plan in today’s Estate.
Subsequently, part of the Estate was bought by Municipal Authorities providing the ‘Town Hall at East Court mansion, (see below) memorial gardens, tennis courts, an
ambulance station and, until recent years, the Police Station and Law Courts. These latter buildings are now part of a current residential housing development scheme.
Today, the majority of the Estate is charitably owned by the East Grinstead Memorial Estate Ltd and is managed by Mid Sussex District Council, under a long-term lease, for the benefit of local residents. In addition to playing fields and parkland there is some 24 hectares of ancient woodland, green fields and ponds for the enjoyment of our town community. Ashplats Wood is designated as a West Sussex Site of Nature Conservation Importance.
Bearing in mind that much of the area contains clay soil, many of the pathways suffer greatly from very wet winters - although it is quite hard to imagine that in the middle of record-
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Efforts are continuing to be made to improve the year-round accessibility through the woodlands: these have included the installation of an extensive pathway at the ‘Ghyll Steps’, much appreciated by regular walkers.
Talking of pathways, the Estate is host to the very popular weekly Parkrun event, which attracts impressive numbers of runners, joggers and walkers of every age. This is very much in keeping with the whole ethos of the Estate: a place for local people to enjoy the benefits of a green space.
We are now well into Summer and we’d encourage you all to make the most of the longer days to get out for some fresh air.
The birds and insects are very much enjoying the grassland and woodland with bug spotting is a lovely way to increase the enjoyment of a leisurely walk, especially with children. We regularly post photographs on our social media accounts including https://www.facebook .com/EastGrinsteadMemorialEst ate.
If you would like to help us to continue the development of this natural gem in the middle of East Grinstead, please do drop an e-mail to chair@egmel.co.uk to find out more – we would love to hear from you. You can also learn more about the charity by finding us on the Web at https://www.egmel.co.uk/
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Dear Editor
Here is a little bit of nostalgia that might interest your readers. It concerns my late great grandad George, who many years ago used to regale us with stories of the time he saw the Titanic.
By his account he knew almost intently that it was going to sink and tried to warn anyone who would listen.
Apparently, nobody at the time wanted to hear it and he became quite frantic in his efforts to alert people as to what was going to happen.
“It’s going to sink! It’s going to sink!” he would yell.
It did not make him very popular, evidently, but he bravely kept this up until the management chucked him out of the cinema.
OPEN LETTER TO RESIDENTS OF EAST GRINSTEAD AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES
For the past 18 months Meridian Rotary has been fundraising by holding events and collections for the Charity Cut out Cancer, which has enabled Hi tech surgical equipment to be purchased by the Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford for use in the new Cancer and Innovations Wing. Due to the fantastic generosity of our community, we have raised close to our target of £25,000, this has been boosted by a large grant by Rotary International which added about £120,000 to the fund and as you can imagine the surgeons are thrilled and are using the amazing equipment already. Over the past year, speaking to local residents, it became apparent just how many people in East Grinstead have been treated at Guildford using the surgical robots. The operation time and recovery time are much reduced, allowing many more patients to be treated.
Rotary is one of the world’s largest and most successful humanitarian service organisations with 35,000 clubs in 200 countries.
They make a difference globally and locally through humanitarian and community projects. They pride themselves on collaboration, with club members and the community working together to address challenges and the issues that matter.
Meridian Rotary would now like to have a new charitable project to raise money for over the next year. Our volunteers and “Friends of Rotary” give their time for free and love to put on community fundraising events with minimum overheads so that the maximum raised can go to the project. We are inviting submissions for a project/cause which would bring benefit to people in East Grinstead and surrounding villages. We would prefer to be able to purchase an item or fund a project so that we have a financial target to aim for.
Please submit ideas by 1st August for review.
Please email a costed project to mailto:jane@meridianrotary.co.uk
The Town Crier Issue 22, July 2026
Shape, Space & Measurement
Maths tutor, Helen Chisholm’s monthly column gives valuable tips on how to excel or help your children excel at maths.
As summer arrives and children spend more time outdoors, it's the perfect opportunity to discover that maths isn't just found in the classroom. Shape, space and measurement are all around us, helping us understand and interact with the world every day.
Perimeter, Area and Volume
These three concepts are often confused, but each has its own purpose. Perimeter is the distance around a shape, area measures the space inside it, and volume tells us how much a three-dimensional object can hold. Whether you're measuring a garden fence, calculating how much paint is needed for a bedroom wall, or working out how much water fits into a paddling pool, these mathematical skills have real-life value.
From Primary Shapes to Secondary Geometry
Children begin by recognising simple 2D and 3D shapes in primary school before gradually exploring angles, properties, transformations and geometric reasoning in secondary maths.
Having a secure understanding of basic shapes and their properties makes more advanced topics, such as
circles, trigonometry and construction, much easier to understand. Like every area of maths, strong foundations lead to greater confidence later on.
Summer Measurement Challenges
The summer holidays provide plenty of opportunities to practise these skills without opening a textbook. Why not challenge your child to measure the perimeter of your garden, estimate and calculate the area of a patio, or compare the capacities of different containers while filling a paddling pool? Younger children can hunt for 2D and 3D shapes on a walk, while older students could estimate heights, distances or angles using everyday objects.
Shape, space and measurement encourage children to think visually, reason logically and solve practical problems.
The more they see maths in the world around them, the more meaningful and enjoyable it becomes.
Wishing everyone a wonderful start to the summer holidays filled with sunshine, adventure and plenty of mathematical discoveries along the way (although hopefully no more heat waves!)!
Let’s Go to Market!
Alison Earnshaw checks out local produce at the East Grinstead Farmers’ Market.
Go to the tourism website ‘Visit South East England’ and you’ll find East Grinstead described as ‘an ancient market town in West Sussex, home to a medieval high street’. The first Royal Charter granting permission to hold a market here dates back to 1247 and I read that the width of our High Street today is largely due to historic planning designed to accommodate it.
Those of us lucky enough to be residents of said ancient market town can certainly attest to the beauty of our medieval High Street. On a sunny day with sunshine dappling through the trees that line the street, flowers in bloom by the war memorial and spirited games of chess taking place outdoors on terraces in front of the historic building housing ‘The Bookshop’, I think it takes a bit of beating!
There are many independent shops to browse if you’re in search of something a little special… boutiques, gift shops, eclectic items for the home. And I do love a Farm Shop of which there are several a
short drive away for sourcing local produce. For one day a week, every Thursday, a ‘Farm Shop’ comes to us, specifically on a Thursday from 9.00 a.m to 2.00 p.m. with stalls set up on the square outside the aptly named ‘Market Square Food & Wine’ and the former ‘Broadleys’ building in the high street.
The East Grinstead Farmers’ Market is dedicated to food produce only and on the day we visited in early July, if the quantity of stalls was somewhat limited, they certainly made up for it in quality! There were three stalls selling bread and cakes, fresh fish and seafood, and a range of coffee respectively. All such items have my name on them as potential purchases so I had a chat with each of the friendly and informative stallholders; Artisan and Sourdough Bread and Cakes, a display of fresh fish on a bed of ice courtesy of Veasey’s independent fishmonger (their main shop is based in Forest Row) and a stall run by
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Coffee Buzz, a company who also supply some of our local cafes.
There was a great selection on each of the stalls. If you were looking for a treat for yourself (as in my case and thank you again Shaun at Coffee Buzz for your advice in selecting our ground coffee from a large array!) or as a foodie gift for someone else, you’ll certainly find something to hit the spot!
These lovely stall-holders who bring their wares to our market town’s medieval high street deserve our support. I’m informed there will be local honey and fresh flowers in the weeks ahead so if you’re in town on a Thursday morning why not pop by the Farmers’ Market and see what’s on offer!
Alison is currently working on an original music and theatre production with 'Shot Full of Rock & Friends'. To find out more go to: https://www.instagram.com/shotf ullofrock/ and www.shotfullofrock.co.uk
Could This Be Your Year to Run a 10K?
Have you ever watched a local running event and thought, "I'd love to do that one day"? Perhaps this is your year.
The East Grinstead 10K Community Run returns on Sunday 4th October at 10am, inviting everyone from first-time runners to seasoned athletes to be part of one of the town's most-loved community events.
Now in its 16th year, the Andy Ripley Memorial Run Community Event is organised by the friendly and supportive East Grinstead Runners. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply want to cross your first 10K finish line, you'll find plenty of encouragement every step of the way.
With several months to train, there's still plenty of time to prepare. A gradual training plan can help almost anyone build up to a 10K, making this the perfect opportunity to set yourself a new challenge. You don't need to be the fastest you just need to be willing to give it a go.
The course is UK Athletics licensed and accurately measured, making it ideal for runners chasing an official time, while remaining welcoming for those taking on the distance for the very first time. The route
combines local roads fully marshalled throughout with the beautiful Worth Way, giving runners a varied and enjoyable course through familiar surroundings. Every finisher earns a well-deserved medal, and after crossing the line you'll be welcomed with coffee, cake and plenty of smiles, making the finish area as memorable as the race itself.
This fantastic community event is made possible thanks to the generous support of Holtye Windows, Martell's, Meridian Finance, East Grinstead Sports Club, Air Engineering Group, Gemcoe, and Real Motion Sports Therapy and Pilates, whose sponsorship helps keep this muchloved local tradition thriving.
Whether you're looking for your first 10K, chasing a new personal best or simply fancy a rewarding challenge, we'd love to see you on the start line this October.
Entries are now open why not make this the year you discover just how much you're capable of? Click on the link to book your place! East Grinstead 10K
East Grinstead Community Bonfire announce their
East Grinstead Community Bonfire collects money during their annual torchlit procession, bonfire and fireworks event to help support local charities.
This year’s charities, chosen by East Grinstead Community Bonfire members, are Quarry Café & Community Fridge and Jigsaw South East.
Quarry Café & Community Fridge
Based in Hollands Way, East Grinstead, Quarry Café is a volunteer-run community hub which provides a place to meet and enjoy quality food and drink at affordable prices in a welcoming environment. Their community fridge provides meals for those who need a helping hand and collects surplus food to share among the community.
To contact Quarry Café info@quarrycafe.co.uk
Jigsaw Southeast
Jigsaw South East supports children and young people coping with the death of a loved one by providing information and guidance. They support families in Kent, Surrey and East and West Sussex.
To find out more email emilylyle@jigsawsoutheast.org.uk
Or visit their website www.jigsawsoutheast.org.uk
Newsflash
Scientists at the Heart Health Institute have spent the last several decades searching for a conclusive answer to the vexing question, “when is the absolutely worst time to have a heart attack?”
They have now amassed sufficient data to show conclusively that the worst time for anyone to have a heart attack is during a game of charades.
Calling local musicians and singers!
Want me to play one of your tracks on my Radio Show and give you the chance to tell people something about you?
The Feelgood Station has listeners all over world but my Show, Judith looks at Love and Romance, is broadcast from here, in Sussex, and I am always pleased to give our local talent the opportunity to widen their audience.
As well as my own Show, Lester Jones, Co-owner of the Station, and I present ‘The Feelgood Morning Magazine Show’ together every weekday morning and a Sunday Show called ‘In our Lounge’ when we step back into the 50s and 60s and remember what life was like in our childhood. In addition to this, Lester brings you his weekly Feel Good Fishing Show which has been instrumental in encouraging lots of youngsters to take up the sport.
There truly is something for everyone on our Station and we have recruited twenty-four brilliant Presenters, some from as far away
as America and Australia, to bring their own kind of entertainment daily to your computer, phone or tablet by means of our Feelgood Station App, Simple Radio, Deezer, or Alexa Skills or you can log on at thefeelgoodstation.uk
If you would like to learn more about my historical novels please visit my own website, which is judiththomson.com and if you would like to appear as a guest on my Show, you can contact me at mailto:thefeelgoodmorningshow@g mail.com
Or through our Facebook page
Six cheap and cheerful ways parents can make the most of the school holidays
by Fiona Straszynski – East Grinstead Debt Centre Manager
Every time the kids are off school most parents have this question in their head; ‘How am I going to keep the children entertained without it costing the earth?’ Don’t fear, here are six helpful tips from Christians Against Poverty (CAP).
Make a plan
As early as you can before the school holidays start, create a budget to help you avoid spending more than you’d like. Make a list of fun and cost-effective activities and write down the days and times you plan to do them. This will give your children something to look forward to and put your mind at rest. For help putting together a budget, visit capuk.org/budgeting.
Check out free church and community activities
Many local churches and community groups offer free and cost-effective activities for families during the holidays. It’s well worth doing a quick search online to find out what’s happening on your doorstep.
Have a clear out
Having a clear out is a great way to fill an afternoon without spending a penny, while also teaching the children valuable lessons about reusing and recycling.
Make the most of the outdoors
Whether it’s at the top of a mountain or in your back garden, the great outdoors is the most cost-effective playground.
Use what you’ve got around the house
Whether it’s building a den with cushions and duvets or putting on a living room fashion show, there’s bound to be stuff around your house that you can use to create some fun and joy.
Finding things difficult financially?
If you’re worried about debt and money, visit capuk.org/help to
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explore the free services we offer in your area. Plus, there’s a wide range of information and support services to be found online at money helper.org.uk.
CAP is committed to fighting poverty and helping people to gain control of their finances. For more information visit capuk.org/help.
The East Grinstead CAP Debt Centre supports East Grinstead and all the surrounding villages offering free, confidential, face-to-face debt help. You’re not alone. We’re here to help! Call our FREE helpline on 0800 328 0006
fionastraszynski@capuk.org
Greenstede Quilters
Anything goes......
Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, but when it brings colour and imagination and usefulness, it creates a different perspective for others to enjoy.
In recent years there has been a resurgence in the art and craft movement, primarily brought on by people keen to recycle or up-cycle textiles that would otherwise be assigned to landfill. I’m sure this has been helped greatly by the everpopular TV series The Sewing Bee. Maybe you too have a creative side that is waiting to shine. Most fabrics (although cotton is the preferred choice due to its versatility) can be put to good use by sewing and quilting it together to create texture and strength and best of all longevity. There are many local exhibitions held throughout the year with Ardingly being our nearest. Did you know the NEC, Birmingham hosts the annual UK quilting festival at the end of July over 3 days and has been going for 27 years, making this the pinnacle of the quilting world.
As we enjoy the remaining summer weeks, it is not perhaps something of a priority, but soon (dare I say it) we will slowly roll into autumn and start to look for other activities to keep us occupied.
occupied. If you are thinking you need a little ‘Me Time’ to bring out your creative side and have basic sewing skills, inspiration is always at hand at Greenstede Quilters. A long-established group who will be celebrating their 45th anniversary in 2027, meet in East Grinstead and will give you a friendly nudge towards your first stitch. It’s not just quilts and bed covers, think picnic and beach rugs, decorative panels and wall hangings, jackets and waistcoats, soft furnishings, table runners, dog coats – the list goes on. Our annual programme of events starts in Sept and. include
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interesting speakers, introduce you to new techniques, workshops, make and take and our optional annual challenge
They make the perfect handmade gift or maybe a child off to uni would welcome something to remind them of home. We meet at Trinity Methodist Church with good parking and refreshments available. If you would like further details, please contact:
Caroline Barry (carolinejbarry64@gmail.com)
Or visit our website – www.greenstedequilters.org.uk.
Handy Life Hack
When you use lemons don’t throw away the peel because the peel is very rich in nutrients. Instead. using organic lemons that you have thoroughly washed, put the peels in the blender with enough filtered water to make a lemon pulp. Put the pulp in a screw-top jar and store it in the fridge. Then use it to make a highly nutritious fizzy lemon drink by mixing a spoonful with sparkling spring water.
You can find out more about the manifold uses of lemon peel here
Eatery of the Month Kinjo
46 Station Road Oxted
Although Oxted is a bit outside our area I thought it worth telling readers of the Town Crier about an absolute gem of a restaurant a mere half-hour drive from the heart of East Grinstead.
Kinjo, located a short walk from the station in the centre of Oxted, serves a broad spectrum of beautifully prepared and presented authentic Japanese dishes. I have been to Kinjo three times now and on each occasion the food was superb.
Plus, the service, whist being polite and unobtrusive is yet very fast and attentive, whilst the ambience is clean, relaxed and friendly
I highly recommend you take the short trip to Oxted and enjoy what this superb establishment has to offer.
HAIKU
The day's a blank page
Awaits the moving finger
And some inspiration
Dear Editor
I found out today that one of my ancestors, Herbert Greenstede, was one of the earliest graduates of Oxford University, having achieved a Bachelor of theArts degree in 1126.
And earlier this year, nearly nine hundred years to the day later, he finished paying off his student loan.
The Town Crier Issue 22, July 2026
The Left Bank of Worlds
Dedicated to this planet's artists - with love - © Steve Cook
Sometimes we wonder what we do it for,
Churning out verse almost nobody likes,
Essays that nobody reads, Novels that gather dust onAmazon, Sharing ideas no-one agrees with, Pointing at futures no-one yet sees.
I wonder what drives people like me Or the bazillion other artists Who have swarmed to this planetary Bohemia, This Left Bank of worlds, To keep on cranking it out year after year,
Like the musician nobody hears, Or the oracle no-one believes, The painter who gets famous after he's dead, Or cuts off his own ear
And is mainly remembered for being Not right in the head.
The poet pours out his heart
To an audience of three, Knowing he'll never be remembered Beyond the day after tomorrow - or sooner
If the fickle winds of fashion shift In some other doomed wordsmith's direction.
You'd think all this is sad wouldn't you? The beautiful sadness of bleak desolation.
But not a bit of it, for when all said and done
There's some spark in the act of creation That brings joy that resides next door to heaven.
The accolades and validation come second,
For no pat on the head ever brought anyone
To God - Who was, when you think about it,
The Original and ultimate artist With the whole the universe as His canvas.
And each artist feels a part of Him inside of us
Every time we pick up a brush or a pen Or tap the day's first computer key And encode the Zen of living In paint, in words or the rhythm Of a verse or symphony.
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I'm sure, by the way - and I take wee consolation -
That Will Shakespeare in his day Had his woes; the play that got less than Rave reviews from blokes in some Tavern after the show sagely picking holes
In Othello or complaining that No-one in real life talks in verse, Or that the end of Macbeth was a letdown
And they could have done it better, Given the poor Scottish bugger a happy ending, 'Cos why make everything so ruddy depressing?
Who remembers the travelling players who took
Hamlet on the road and were showered
With ripe tomatoes by oiks Who preferred Kit Marlowe?
Even they have forgotten - but how can anyone Achieve recognition or belief If they do not recognize or believe in themselves?
We've all been there, we all have our Stories - and some of them are even true.
Well, more or less - but win or lose, The true glory is in the creation And, besides, there's no such thing As an overnight sensation. Every "overnight" success sweated blood
For more years - or even more livesThan he or she cares to believe,
Much less remember.
Send me a sample of your work and I will feature it in the Town Crier
Ever Fancied Being on the Radio?
Meridian FM Wants to Hear from You
Have you ever shouted at the radio, convinced you could do it better? Now's your chance to find out.
Meridian FM, East Grinstead's own community radio station, is looking for new members, and we're not just after people who fancy sitting behind a microphone (though if that's you, brilliant!)
Whatever you're into, we've probably got a slot for it.
Love live music? Obsessed with films? Can't stop talking about the local am-dram scene, your allotment, or that DIY project that's taken over your weekends?
We'll help you turn it into a show and give you an audience across the town and local villages who might just fall in love with it too.
No broadcasting experience needed. What you get instead is training, support, and a genuine chance to build communication skills and confidence in front of a live audience, at your own pace. Plenty of our presenters were
nervous about their first link and are now completely at home behind the mic.
And if radio itself isn't your thing, there's still a place for you.
Behind every show is a station that needs running: someone keeping the member database in order, someone looking after our IT, someone handling admin, someone writing the emails and posts that keep our listeners in the loop. If you're looking to build skills in any of these areas, whether for a CV, a career change, or just for the enjoyment of it, we'd love to have you.
Meridian FM only works because people give their time. In return, we offer something rare: a genuinely supportive space to try something new, get better at it, and share whatever you're passionate about with your own community.
Curious? Email us at info@meridianfm.co.uk and tell us what you'd like to do, or just that you're interested. We'll take it from there.
East Surrey Council – An Update
by Cllr. Nick Greenfield
The local elections on 7th May are now perhaps a distant memory, but they will have a long-lasting effect. Tandridge District Council and Surrey County Council will cease to exist on 1 April 2027 and be replaced with the new East Surrey Council. On that day, the responsibility for all of the services currently provided will transfer to the new council. There is also the need to divide services between East and West Surrey (with West Surrey having a new council all of its own).
Work to make this happen in a safe and legal way has started in earnest. The first full council meeting has taken place, and an implementation plan has been agreed. Committees are starting to sit, and details of how best to transfer services and staff are being considered.
The existing council officers are working hard and at speed to draw up proposals for approval by the 72 newly elected councillors. The next full council meeting is on 29 July and it will be live streamed.
Another change has been to the ward boundaries.
Lingfield ward now comprises the five parishes of Lingfield, Dormansland, Felbridge, Horne and Burstow. These house about 12,500 residents and I am one of only two councillors who will have responsibility for that area.
National issues gain the headlines, but for most people their interactions with government are about the things that concern us all – things like roads and pavements, housing, planning, refuse collection, children’s services and education. The next five years will be extremely busy, but that doesn’t discourage me, and I am looking forward to the challenges ahead.
Until 1 April 2027, all council services continue to be delivered by the existing councils. Similarly, your existing county and district councillors remain responsible for service matters and for supporting residents with casework. That said, please don’t be deterred from coming to me with your concerns. I am always happy to listen and may be able to signpost you to the source of a solution.
Finally, thank you to everyone who voted. The turnout was 49%, which is highly unusual for a local election. I will do my utmost to serve the community and give the residents of all five parishes a voice in the new council.
HerMove inspires at East Court Live
HerMove brought energy, enthusiasm and a powerful message of community to East Court Live on Sunday, a charity encouraging women and girls to get active, connect with others and discover new opportunities.
Set against the backdrop of one of East Grinstead's most popular free summer events, the HerMove team welcomed people of all ages to learn more about the initiative and its growing range of activities. From friendly conversations the stand was busy throughout the afternoon, highlighting the importance of movement, confidence and wellbeing in a supportive environment. Anna Morris ( IAM dance fit ) delighted the crowd with an interactive display of Zumba which got everyone up on their feet!
East Court Live once again attracted families and music lovers for an afternoon of live entertainment, food and community spirit, providing the perfect setting for local
organisations to showcase the work they do across the town.
The July event featured live performances from Tar Babies, Call Me at Midnight, Superfreak and The Anna Howie Band, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
HerMove is delighted to be one of Mayor Stephanie Reeves charity of the year along with the Lions and by bringing people together through movement and friendship, the organisation continues to make a positive impact in East Grinstead, proving that even small steps can help build a healthier, more connected community.
They will be at East Court Live again on August 2nd and their next event is HerMove Live Festival at East Grinstead Sports Club in September which is a free festival of sport, dance, wellbeing and fun for women and girls. Watch out for more information in the coming weeks.
Congratulations Tony!
At a recent handover event held at Sweetwoods Golf Club, East Grinstead & District Lions Club outgoing president, Nick Gibson, was delighted to hand over his chain of office to new president, Tony Harvey. The Club wishes Tony a very enjoyable year in office.
Tony is passionate about volunteering and hopes to encourage more people to come forward and enjoy the benefits and rewards of being a volunteer.
To get in touch, please email mailto:eganddlionsclub@gmail.com or call 0345 833 9506
Lingfield Farmers Market
My wife and I had a splendid Sunday morning visiting this lovely and lively market in the heart of Lingfield. It has a lot to offer:
Plenty of stalls selling local goods and produce Easy parking
A welcoming atmosphere.
We highly recommend you go along and check it out at the Lingfield Primary School on Vicarage Road.
Facebook Website
(see also article on page 44)
Well done Sackville School!
We are pleased to report that Sackville School has won the coveted ArtsmarkAward. The award recognises schools for their exceptional commitment to creativity and is accredited by Arts Council England. It is the only award for arts and culture provision in England, so this is a huge validation of Sackville’s commitment to excellence in the arts, from drama and music to dance and visual arts.
Lingfield Farmers’Market
Growing Together as a Community
There’s something special about a local market. It’s more than just a place to shop – it’s where neighbours meet, children enjoy a morning out, and local businesses have the opportunity to thrive.
Lingfield Farmers’Market returns on Sunday 9thAugust, from 9.00am to 1.00pm at Lingfield Primary School, and we’re delighted to announce that additional parking will be available on the school playground, making it even easier to visit.
Whether you’re planning your weekly shop or simply looking for a leisurely Sunday morning, you’ll find an incredible selection of locally produced food and artisan products. Browse stalls filled with fresh fruit and vegetables, delicious French pâtisseries, local honey, Mediterranean delicacies, artisan cheeses, freshly baked bread, homemade pies, Scotch eggs and sausage rolls, colourful plants and flowers, flavour-packed chilli sauces, rubs and spices, and so much more. If you enjoy good food and supporting local producers, there’s truly something for everyone. Since launching, the market has become a wonderful community event, supporting independent
businesses while creating a welcoming place for people to come together. Every purchase you make helps local producers continue doing what they love and keeps money circulating within our local community.
However, the future of any community market depends on the support of the people it serves. We have fantastic stallholders who travel early each month to bring highquality produce to Lingfield, but they can only continue if the community comes along to support them.
If you’ve been meaning to visit but haven’t quite got round to it yet, why not make thisAugust the month you do? Bring your family, meet friends for a coffee, discover something new, and enjoy everything our local producers have to offer.
A thriving market doesn’t happen by chance it happens because a community chooses to support it.
We look forward to welcoming you on Sunday 9th August 9.00am–1.00pm, at Lingfield Primary School. Come along, shop local, and help keep Lingfield Farmers’Market flourishing for years to come.
