Serving the communities of East Grinstead, Forest Row, Lingfield. Crawley Down and the neighbouring areas
The Town Crier
Let’s thrive!
Issue 10 July 2025
Here is issue 10 of the Town Crier for the communities of the East Grinstead area.
Welcome to the June 2025 Issue of the Town Crier !
I sincerely hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed putting it together..
If you are a charity or any form of not-for-profit group, club or enterprise you will not be charged for being promoted in this magazine.
If you are a small local business you can have one advertorial feature equivalent to a full page of advertising free of charge so as to make yourself known to our readers.
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 which you can find here
To view policies and prices in more detail, go to the website here
The door is now wide open for your submissions for the August issue. Here’s a rough guide to the type of features we are looking for:
• 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.
The cover photograph of East Grinstead’s famous Bluebell Railway is by our resident genius with a camera, East Grinstead photographer, Russell Prain. Find him on Instagram.
In this Issue
East Grinstead Women’s SHARE page 3
Forest Row Repair Café page 4
Meridian FM page 4
The Poetry Page page 5
Portland Vets page 6
Holidays in France page 7
East Grinstead Community Bonfire page 9
Talk to Us - Community First Responders page 10
Find Stillness in the Heart of Summer page 11
Sun, Skincare and Social Bonds page 12
How Can We Help? Page 17
EGTC presents East Court Live page 18
Claridge House page 19
Witches’ Marks and Warming Pans page 20
Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir page 22
East Grinstead Jazz Festival page 22
Christians Against Poverty page 23
The Rule of Seven page 24
EG in Bloom Garden Competition page 24
Eaterie of the Month - The Goat page 25
Summer Maths Adventures page 26
Dear Editor . . , page 26
The Lingfield Farmers’ Market page 27
Gill Bustamante’s Column page 28
Taylor-Made Dreams page 29
Magma Fire Pits page 30
How to Basically page 31
Recipe of the Month page 32
East Grinstead Women's S.H.A.R.E. is a free weekly support group for women, over 18, a place to breathe, relax and feel heard.
If life feels heavy, or you're looking for friendship and understanding faces, we'd love to welcome you just as you are. Always free. Always for women.
What WeAre
We're a small, friendly group of local women who meet weekly to share life's ups and downs, with trained and experienced group members, in a confidential & safe environment.
No judgement. No pressure. Just listening, laughing, learning & some tears.
Whether you're struggling with on-going stress, a carer, new to the area, lonely or isolated, you have a place here.
Worried about coming alone?
We get it. Many of us were nervous before our first time too. That's why we offer:
A friendly "hello" over a cuppa before your first meeting
A gentle welcome from a trained volunteer who'll sit with you
We begin with simple relaxation techniques then take time to talk (or just listen) about what's on your mind.
Helpful themes are covered once a month and in workshops we deal with life's problems and solutions, or whatever is on your mind that week.
The choice to speak- or just listen is yours.
When & Where?
Evening Meeting: Once a week during term time, re-starting on Thursday 11th September 7pm-8.30pm upstairs at the Dorset Arms (excluding 2nd Oct/ 6th Nov)- our thanks to Darren!
Daytime Meeting (with Crèche!):
DUE SOON once a week during school term: perfect for mums and carers with little ones. Your child is lovingly looked after so you can focus on you.
VOLUNTEERS with experience are needed for extra Leaders and volunteer creche workers whilst awaiting funding. Please e-mail if interested.
Our Values-S.H.A.R.E.
Support
Heal
Affirm
Respect
Empower
Every woman deserves to feel safe, valued and strong and we'll walk with you until you do.
Thinking of Coming? Just come along!
Thinking of volunteering or nervous about attending? Let's Chat First! Email: EGwomensshare@outlook.com;
Facebook: East Grinstead Women's SHARE
Website coming soon! You are not alone! And you are truly welcome here
Our fund-raising Music Quizz on 5th September has been postponed. Our apologies.
What Do You Want From Your Local Radio?
At Meridian FM – your local, non-profit radio station – we’re on a mission to make radio better for everyone in our community. But to do that, we need your help.
Whether you tune in every day or haven’t yet discovered us, we want to hear from you! What would you like to hear more of? What matters to you? How can we serve your interests better?
Our quick, anonymous survey takes just 2 minutes –and as a thank you, you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win lunch at Bench in East Grinstead!
Visit https://meridianfm.com/survey. Or use the QR Code opposite.
Help shape your local radio – have your say today!
The Poetry Page
This month we feature four Haiku by local poet Gary Byrne
I
Temples and blossoms
Mothers in kimonos
The sound of laughing children
II
Broadway’s icy wind
late night walks and neon lights
Chrysler’s eerie glow
III
Long hot days of sun
Naked fresh water swimming
Crayfish and vodka
IV
Crisp clear morning skies
Bonfires and fireworks
Leaves of red and gold
Born near Cambridge, England, Gary worked on local farms to pay for his early travels.
Studying languages, acting in theatre and playing all sports were early passions.
Travel followed. His father, Peter, ignited this latter passion after many happy caravan holidays in all corners of the UK, particularly the Celtic areas of Scotland, Wales and Cornwall.
Nearly fifty years later those travels have extended to all four corners of the globe.
Once asked what his most treasured possession was, as someone who didn’t let the moss grow under his feet, he replied: “my address book!”
Are you going to France for your holidays?
As you probably know, the French desert the towns and cities to go to the seaside, the mountains or the countryside during the summer holidays.
People take a whole month off either in July or August. Yes, it is usual, and it means a real break from it all.
But if you didn’t know about it, you might get a few surprises, good or bad, on the way so before you head off to the ferry or the Tunnel, here are a few things to think about and take into account:
• Because of such a rush to go on holiday, the motorways can end up extremely busy, nightmarish actually, so avoid going by car on weekends if you can and check what the traffic will be like wherever you are driving ahead of time. You can go on the Bison Futé (clever bison) Website and check the predictions to avoid being stuck in traffic jams. The address is https://www.bison-fute.gouv.fr. There will be other ways to check of course.
• Make sure to have plenty of water with you in the car, as well as some food.
• Have your route well mapped.
• For any emergency, you can call 112 free from any mobile phone. This is a EU-wide number to contact the police, firefighters, ambulance, etc. But not UberEat
• A lot of businesses and shops close down for up to a month, except in tourist areas, so wherever you drive through you might not find what you need, so think ahead of what you want to have in the car before setting off.
• Learn a few words of French. Saying Bonjour, Merci, Au revoir, goes a long way to ingratiate you with the locals. Teach your children, there’s nothing as heart warming as a little cutie making the effort to speak the local language.
• Don’t forget to pack plug adaptors.
• Try and work out the things you won’t find easily in France and that you will need and make sure to bring them with you.
• There have been major fires raging in the South, and various areas are being marked as presenting risk of further fires. This is due to human negligence and very hot, dry conditions; check whether the region you are about to visit is on the list of those regions that could victims of fires.
• But most of all… Don’t forget to enjoy yourself! Bonnes vacances!
French translator and interpreter Passionate about good food, organic growing and herbal remedies domicook64@gmail.com
Dominique
Genghis Kant
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“I was just sitting in my kitchen reading Genghis Kant when I laughed so hard I blew toast and jam all over my freshly washed clothing drying on the clothes horse. Thanks for that . . . deeply brilliant writer. Deeply impressed.” Reader
Available in Paperback and eBook or injected straight into your brain
Talk to Us: Sometimes the Most Vital Response Is a Listening Ear
When people think of anyone that’s part of the ambulance service they often picture flashing lights, CPR in progress, or defibrillators saving lives. And yes, those moments happen; they’re the ones that grab headlines.
But truthfully? A lot of what we do as Community First Responders (CFR’s) is simply being there. Listening. Reassuring until an ambulance arrives.
And that’s why July’s "Talk to Us" Month, led by Samaritans, resonates so deeply.
Their message is beautifully simple: whatever you’re going through, a conversation can change everything. Sometimes, just being heard is the lifeline someone needs most.
First Responders: The Calm in the Chaos
As CFRs, we’re trained in life-saving interventions but we’re also taught something even more powerful: how to be calm and present in someone else’s crisis.
Whether we’re attending someone who’s confused, frightened, grieving, or alone, our role is often to simply be that first reassuring face. The one who listens without judgement. Who offers compassion without needing all the answers.
It might be someone who’s seen a loved one be injured or who is ill. Or a parent frightened by their child’s breathing. Or an elderly person struggling with chest pain due to loneliness and anxiety.
We can’t always fix what’s happening. But we can offer a hand to hold, a steady presence, and a voice that says, “I’m here, and you’re not alone.”
That kind of support? It’s not just medical, it’s deeply human.
We Talk With People but We Also Need to Talk Ourselves
While we’re often there for others, we’re still human ourselves.
We carry what we’ve seen, sometimes for longer than we expect. The traumatic calls, the things we
witness behind closed doors, the times when even our best efforts and those of the ambulance crew wasn’t enough.
It can stay with you. And like many volunteers and emergency service colleagues, there’s a risk of bottling it up. After all, we signed up to help, right?
But being strong doesn’t mean staying silent. In fact, knowing when you need to talk is one of the wisest, most powerful things you can do for yourself and the people you serve.
That’s where initiatives like "Talk to Us" Month become so, not just for the public, but for responders too.
They remind us that we’re all allowed to feel. That it’s okay to say, “That call got to me.” And that reaching out isn’t weakness, it’s self-care.
Everyone
Can Be a Listener, Including You
One of the best ways you can support CFRs - and each other - is to create a culture of compassionate listening. That means:
• Asking, “How are you really doing?” and meaning it.
• Letting someone speak without rushing to fix.
• Noticing when someone’s quieter than usual and checking in.
• Understanding that behind every uniform is a human being, carrying unseen stories.
It might seem small, but these actions make a massive difference.
From Listening to Lifting Each Other Up
If you’ve read this far, here’s the one takeaway: empathy saves people too.
You don’t need a defib to make an impact. Just a bit of time. A kind word. A willingness to connect.
Continued on next page
Community First Responders - continued from previous page
And if you are someone who’s struggling right now, whether you wear a uniform or not, know that there is ALWAYS someone on hand to listen :
Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123. The call is FREE, it’s confidential and they really want to talk to you.
Behind the Uniform
So this July, as we mark “Talk to Us” Month, please take a moment to think about the people
Your local responders. Your neighbours. Your friends.
We’re all human. We all carry things. And we all need a safe space to talk sometimes.
Let’s build a community where listening is normal, compassion is visible, and no one feels they have to go it alone.
Because the strongest communities are the ones that truly care.
Sam – Community First Responder & Health and Wellness Coach, proud to serve East Grinstead and the surrounding area.
The Breathing Room y Finding
July holds nothing back. The sun is high, the days are long, and everything seems to stretch out in full bloom and intensity. There’s a sense of abundance in the air holidays, plans, energy, colour, noise.
And yet, in the midst of it all, I feel and keep hearing this from clients: “I thought summer would feel lighter but I’m still exhausted.” Or “there’s no space just for me I’m in demand ALL the time”.
Recognise this?
It’s easy to feel that we should be making the most of every minute soaking up the sun, ticking off to-do lists, showing up for everyone and everything. But summer has its own intensity, and even joy can be overstimulating when we don’t take time to pause.
What if you didn’t need to keep up with the season’s pace?
What if you let it soften you instead?
Try this next time the day feels full, or your thoughts are racing
Stop for a moment and sit quietly – still and in silence
Stillness in the Height of Summer
by Judith Rayner
Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale gently through pursed lips like blowing out through a straw.
Do this a few times and notice your shoulders lower and your mind clearing.
This simple breath calms the nervous system and helps cool and quiet the body.
Stillness doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means being present. When we allow ourselves to slow down, we start to feel again to notice what we need, to enjoy what’s already here.
If you’re craving more space this summer to regroup, reflect, or realign I offer 1:1 breathwork and coaching to support you. It’s not about pushing through. It’s about coming home to yourself, even in the height of the noise.
Well Healthy
Helping you live a freer, healthier life
This month, Samantha Ford of Unique Welllth presents:
Sun, Self-Care & Social Bonds Why July’s Wellness Message Matters More Than Ever
This month is packed with themes that speak to your health in different ways, from protecting your body and mind through self-care, to soaking up sunshine safely, to leaning into friendships that truly buffer us against the pressures of modern life.
Whether you’re thriving, surviving or somewhere in between, July invites you to slow down, check in, and ask yourself: What do I actually need right now?
Let’s explore three key themes that tie together in a surprisingly powerful way.
Self-Care Month (24 June–24 July) . Your Body is Calling, Are You Listening?
Self-care isn't just a bubble bath, it's a boundary. It’s noticing when you’re running on empty, and choosing to refuel, before the crash. Yet too many of us wait for the warning lights; exhaustion, irritability, disrupted sleep, before we pay attention.
That’s why I created the 10-Day Self-Care Experience, a simple, real-world way to build micro moments of recovery into your day, without guilt, or, worse still, overwhelm.
You’ll be guided through 10 days of small, smart actions that restore energy, calm your nervous system, and build habits you can actually keep. Think of it as a daily reset button for your wellbeing now and beyond,
The next experience unlocks on Sunday 26th July, places are limited so be sure to secure yours. If you've been feeling “not bad, but not great either” or just “ok”, this is your gentle nudge to start prioritising you again, experiment and explore what works for you.
UV Safety Month Your Skin Can’t Speak, But It Can Scream
Let’s talk sunshine. We all know it lifts our mood, gives us vitamin D, and brings people outside
again. But it also brings real risks, especially when we’re caught up in the moment.
As someone who volunteers with the ambulance service as a Community First Responder, I’ve seen the harsh side of sun exposure from dehydration in vulnerable people to severe sunburn in adults and children at outdoor events.
I touched on this in May’s article about the impact responders can have before emergencies become critical and UV safety is a perfect example of how prevention really is better than cure. Check out the article for more info but some quick reminders include:
• 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
It’s simple stuff, but consistent selfcare is prevention in action.
International Day of Friendship (30 July). Connection is the Real Superpower
Last month, I explored the silent toll that loneliness takes on health, particularly in men who are “holding it all together” on the outside while feeling disconnected underneath.
This month, Friendship Day reminds us of the antidote.
• A walk with a friend.
• A text that says “thinking of you.”
• Showing up for someone who didn’t ask but clearly needs it.
Continued on next page
Wellhealthy contined from previous page
These moments don’t just feel good, they support our nervous system, reduce stress hormones, and improve long-term health outcomes. Friendship is medicine.
If you read last month’s article, you’ll see the threads connecting: how loneliness, stress and coping in silence erode wellbeing. Now, July brings a shift: a focus on restoring, protecting, reconnecting.
Whether it's sunscreen, boundaries, or bonding over a cuppa wellbeing thrives on small actions taken often. And when you start tuning in, you’ll notice the themes repeat:
• Prevention is always better.
• Connection can heal what isolation has harmed.
• Energy needs restoring, just like your phone battery.
• And remember that you don’t have to do it alone.
So this July, whether you try the 10-day self-care
experience, send that message you’ve been putting off, or pack a sunhat in your bag, know that these tiny acts add up.
You don’t need to overhaul your life to start feeling better. Just start with one thing. Then another.
And if you need a guide along the way, I’m here.
For twice monthly health and wellness related updates direct to your inbox, join the Thriving Times community: https:// www.uniquewellth.coach/newsletters
Samantha – Certified Health & Wellness Coach Helping you decode stress and reclaim your energy, focus & joy.
Translations into and from French 30 years experience
Turnaround and prices to suit your needs
WHETHER YOU NEED THE TRANSLATION OF :
• Awebsite
• 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
When dealing directly with the translator, you benefit from:
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• Availability outside normal working hours to speak with you when necessary
• Visit to your home or office if necessary to go over your requirements
EXPERIENCE
• Technical
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REVIEWS
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• General and business correspondence
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Dominique Cook
French translator since 1995
MCIOL, DipTrans, CIOL
Phone: 07948 702788
Email: domicook64 @gmail.com
We've been excitedly planning our Open Day, making sure we’re ready to welcome you all to Claridge House on the 19th July so please put the date in your diaries.
Here is a snippet of what to expect at our Open Day:
Talks: Introduction to Buddhism, Understanding Alexander Technique, Simple Eco Tips for All, A Quaker Q&A and a talk by The Healing Garden from West Hoathly.
Short Workshops: Tai Chi, Meditation, Sound Healing, Yoga, Mindfulness Through Expressive Drawing and more!
Mini Treatments: Reiki treatments and Massages
Refreshments: A chance to sample our famous vegetarian home-cooking, our usual teas, coffees and cakes and delicious sweet & savoury afternoon tea boxes.
Activities and stalls: Lawn games, kids corner, shop, food and more!
So if you’ve ever wanted to find out about your local wellbeing retreat centre, now’s the time!
All are welcome. Entry will be free, but any donations will be gratefully received and will go straight into our Bursary Fund.
So, now that Summer has well and truly appeared, you may be thinking about your holidays? I've always thought that there's no better place to be than the UK in the Summer months.
Why go abroad when you can enjoy a staycation and experience the very best that Britain has to offer during this (hopefully) glorious season? Why not take this opportunity to experience the feeling of true rest and renewal? Claridge House doesn't just offer a break from the world, it's a chance to return to yourself and reconnect.
From Yoga, Mindfulness, Qi Gong, Sound Healing, Calligraphy and all things wellbeing, visit our website for more information on all the courses and retreats we offer.
Want to dip your toe in first? We offer half day and full day courses too:
• Water colour Half Day Course – 5th August
• Shamanic Workshop – 16th August
• Mindfulness Through Expressive Drawing Afternoon – 2nd September
• Introduction to Buddhism (6 week course every Wednesday evening starting 3rd September)
Town Crier columnist Alison Earnshaw visits ‘The Priest House’ and ‘St Margaret’s Church’ in the Sussex village of West Hoathly.
I can’t quite recall the exact circumstances of first spotting ‘The Priest House’. It’s a little off the beaten track and we were either looking for the pub or had taken a wrong turn either or both are very possible!
My first serendipitous glimpse from the car window was of a well-established hedge complete with topiary. Lichened roof-tile slabs were visible behind this, similar to those on the oldest buildings in East Grinstead High Street. Slowing down for a closer inspection, we saw a list of opening times and prices on the gate of this beautiful Sussex dwelling so were pleased to discover we’d be able to explore further on a future occasion.
Returning to West Hoathly a month or two later, the Sussex hedgerows were in full green leaf, the narrow winding roads lined with wildflowers. No parking at ‘The Priest House’ itself but we found a spot a bit further on and made our way back on foot past several other beautiful old houses in the pretty village.
‘The Priest House’ has been a museum for over a century and was first gifted to The Sussex Royal Archaeological Society in 1935. We were welcomed by resident custodian Antony who was the ideal guide, knowledgeable and informative about every aspect of the six-hundred-year-old property. Past owners include Henry VIII, Thomas Cromwell, Anne of Cleves, Mary I and Elizabeth I; quite a roll call! Antony was available to answer specific questions about the house, discuss the historic background to the property’s life and times and was also happy for visitors to the house he clearly loves to make their own self-guided tour of the four rooms on display, packed to their ancient rafters with artefacts from Tudor times to Victorian.
Our delve into the house’s secrets began at the threshold of the front door which is embedded with iron nails and filings. Such additions to a doorstep were once believed to bar entry to any passing witches, demons or even dragons; Antony informed us that the last alleged dragon sighting in Sussex was in 1614… who knew! Having crossed the threshold (with no impediment to our progress, I’m pleased to report) we spotted Witches’ Marks etched into the beam over the hearth in what was once the
kitchen, again intended to repel anything untoward! There was more headroom in the house than I’d expected. Antony pointed out where the floor level had originally been, quite a bit higher than it is today.
After navigating the narrow staircase, the two upper rooms contained displays of domestic items and exhibits from across the broad sweep of centuries. An item of particular significance is ‘The Suffragette Handkerchief’, embroidered with the signatures of more than sixty women imprisoned in HMP Holloway in 1912.
I always wonder just how incredibly cold it must have been in old houses such as this. Even with roaring fires in the hearths of the well-to-do of the time I can only imagine the drafts and chills throughout a bitter Winter! One historic solution on display was in the form of a strange contraption which appeared somewhat alarming in today’s climate of Health & Safety. A large iron frame, it was designed to hold hot embers suspended over the bed, a risky looking alternative to today’s heated blanket or hot water bottle. The beautiful copper warming pans also on display were a later innovation; very welcome I should imagine!
Exiting through the enchantingly traditional Sussex country garden with its herbs, ferns and rambling roses we then popped into St Margaret’s Church and grounds, located just across the road. The oldest parts of this lovely church date from Norman times over nine hundred years ago. Swifts return to nest each year in its ancient tower which contains six bells, the oldest dating from the reign of Elizabeth I. A stroll through the surrounding graveyard led us to a spectacular view across the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on the clear day of our visit we could see as far as the South Downs. Utter peace and quiet with just a drowsy hum of bees and rustle of grasses.
Our exploration of the house and church were such a fascinating and enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours. There’s a ‘Vintage Tea Party’ at ‘The Priest House’ scheduled for Sunday 8th August from 2.30 p.m. with tea and cake to accompany your visit and raise funds in support of this historic gem of a building. Antony and ‘The Priest House’ would be delighted to see you!
Continued on next page
Crawley Down Ladies Choir - Update
Crawley Down Ladies Choir is on a well earned Summer break, returning for the new term on September 8th which incidentally will also be our “Come and Sing” evening.
This is an open evening at which anyone with a love of singing can come and sing with us. Why not come along to The Haven Centre, Crawley Down at 7.15pm, try us out and perhaps even join us. There is ample parking onsite.
We are always happy to welcome new members, either alto or soprano voices. We sing a broad range of music, from folk to pop, from traditional to musicals and even carols when appropriate. You do not need to read music - several of our members don’t and there is no formal audition with the main qualification purely and simply being a love of singing.
You will also find our stall at the Crawley Down Fayre which is taking place this year on Saturday September 6th. We will have examples of our sheet music to peruse in folders, information available about us and this offers you the opportunity to ask questions and meet some of us too. We do hope to see you there.
Meantime lets hope the recent good weather continues although perhaps not the heatwave. As a song some may remember goes “See you in September”?
WEBSITE
CONTACT
Six top tips for budget-conscious parents during the school holidays
The long summer school holidays can seem like a daunting prospect for many parents. At Christians Against Poverty (CAP), we understand the financial pressures parents face in finding cheap activities for the kids to do over the summer, and so we have some money saving tips to help you.
1. Create an action plan
Avoid the stress of not knowing what to do with the kids by drawing up an action plan. Having a summer programme of planned activities will help you work out how much you’ll need, enabling you to enjoy each activity with the children knowing that you can afford it. So why not brainstorm some ideas of potential activities, set up a flexible schedule and work out a budget for the holidays?
2. Make use of free activities
Local churches often organise free holiday clubs so the children can enjoy the fun activities and get the chance to make new friends, and you’ll be able to have a few hours to yourself. You could also check out your council website and Facebook community groups that advertise free summer activities for children.
3. Be weather-ready
From play parks to beaches, there are many free activities to do with the kids outside, and bad weather doesn’t have to spoil your plans. Gear up for all weathers ahead of time so that if you’re caught out by a sudden downpour you don’t have to find an expensive indoor activity to do instead.
4. Have a sort out
Make the most out of kids' play spaces for the summer ahead, and get the children involved in decluttering their bedrooms discover some toys that they which will save on buying new ones. You could even sell any unwanted items for a little extra summer spending money.
5. Set helpful tasks
Including the kids in some of the household chores might not sound that exciting, but you how much fun you can have from getting everyone involved to help out – it takes the pressure off you and also teaches them some valuable skills. Try planning a set time of day to do a little housework
with the kids and divvy out small tasks using a chore wheel to keep it fair and varied. You could even offer fun incentives such as a sticker reward chart or special activities for later.
6. Do some baking
Why not have some fun with the kids and get them involved with baking and cooking together? It can be a fantastic learning opportunity and doesn’t have to be an expensive activity – find budget-friendly recipes online to show children how to cook economically, with the added bonus of having some food prepared for when they’re hungry. (They might also be more inclined to eat it if they’ve made it!)
WorriedAbout Debt or Financial Difficulties?
Help is available. Visit capuk.org/help to find out more, or get in touch with your local Debt Coach for a friendly, informal chat: fionastraszynski@capuk.org
The East Grinstead CAP Debt Centre supports East Grinstead and all surrounding villages, offering free, confidential, face-to-face debt help.
You’re not alone. We’re here to help.
“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
The Rule of 7 in Small Business Marketing
Monthly
Marketing Tips
byAlice Watkyn of Mouthy Marketing
But the truth is that most of your audience will have missed it the first time or even the second. Or they saw it, meant to come back, and didn’t.
Think you're annoying people by marketing too often? In reality, you’re probably not saying enough.
The Rule of 7 is a classic idea in marketing that still holds up. It means someone needs to come across your message at least seven times before they act. That might sound like a lot, but think about how many times you’ve needed a few reminders before you bought something, booked a service, or made a decision. It’s not pushy it’s just how attention works.
People are busy. They see dozens of messages a day and forget most of them. Even if they like what you offer, they’re not going to jump on it the first time they hear about it. They need time, they need reminders and they need repetition.
Small business owners often hold back. One email feels like too much, posting again feels awkward and repeating the same offer feels self-indulgent.
Marketing once or twice doesn’t build trust or familiarity and it doesn’t help people remember what you do. But steady, repeated communication does.
You’re not pestering people by sending a follow-up, writing another post, or mentioning your services more than once. You’re giving them another chance to remember you and act when they’re ready.
If you wait until you feel “fresh” every time, you’ll stay invisible.
Keep saying the same thing, clearly and consistently. That’s what works.
Alice Watkyn Mouthy Marketing
www.mouthymarketing.co.uk
Eaterie of the Month
The Goat
Situated on the East Grinstead High Street just across the road from the Dorset Arms pub is a café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. It also does takeaway and has a fully licensed bar, plus an outside terrace and
My wife and I decided to use Saturday lunchtime to sample what The Goat has to offer and I have to say
The first thing that impressed us was the menu for some beautifully created teas, two of which we had and found them delicious. I was so impressed I though the tea menu was worth sharing with you so here is my photo of it.
The main menu was highly creative with some excellent and well thought out dishes. My wife chose Turkish style Goat Special Eggs”) and I had the Full English breakfast, both from the Breakfast Menu.
Both dishes were superb and the Full English was also HUGE as well as perfectly cooked. The photos I took t really do them justice. We both felt that we got top value for our money, the two teas and two meals costing
The ambience itself was clean and spacious, the atmosphere relaxed and the staff attentive, pleasant and
We came away very satisfied with our experience and have no hesitation in strongly recommending The Goat to readers of the Town Crier.
We will certainly be going again.
Summer MathsAdventures
Maths tutor, Helen Chisholm’ s monthly column gives valuable tips on how to excel, or help your children excel at maths.
As the summer holidays approach, many families are ready for a well-earned break. But while school stops, learning doesn’t have to and maths can travel with you in the most unexpected ways!
Road Trip Maths: Maps, Distances & Travel Times
Planning a journey? Involve your child in working out routes, distances, and timings. “If we leave at 10:30 and the journey is 2 hours and 15 minutes, what time will we arrive?” or “How far is it between these two towns on the map?”
These little questions build real-life problem-solving skills and make maths feel purposeful. Even using sat-navs or road signs offers chances to talk about speed, time, and estimation.
Trips away or even days out are perfect opportunities to get children thinking about value and budgeting.
Dear Editor . . .
I was inspired by Steve Ody’s article in the June Town Crier entitled “Bee Friendly East Grinstead is Buzzing.”
As Cllr Ody so eloquently pointed out bees are essentially allies in our pursuit of survival. Indeed we would be wise to regard all of nature as our ally and not some sort of foe to be crushed. The latter folly has for too long driven unethical or even criminal elements of the food industry to wreak tremendous damage to our biosphere.
So all efforts to supplant such destructive behaviour with ethical practices should be encouraged. Our survival and that of our children depends upon it.
Apart from obvious common-sense practices such as refusing to contaminate our gardens, allotments and so forth with poisons such as glyphosate, here is a simple thing any gardener or allotmenteer can
Give them a small spending allowance and let them decide how to use it. Estimate the cost of meals, tickets, or souvenirs. Encourage older children to plan a day’s activities within a budget; it’s great preparation for adulthood and builds financial fluency.
These kinds of everyday maths moments are often the most powerful. They show children that maths is not just something you do in a classroom, it’s a life skill that helps us make smart choices, solve problems and feel in control.
Over the summer, I’ll continue offering relaxed, engaging maths tuition to keep skills sharp and confidence high.
Whether your child is preparing for a new school year or just needs a little boost, now is the perfect time to keep their mathematical brain ticking.
Wishing you all a summer full of sunshine, smiles, and a little holiday maths magic along the way!
For more information, contact me at makingitcountmathstuition@gmail.com
do to help the bees and other insects flourish:
Always make sure you have a section of your garden or allotment given over to borage and/or lavender.
Our insect friends love them and their presence fills your space with life.
I am sure there are other plants equally as beefriendly and perhaps your readers could write in and suggest some they have found helpful.
Let’s work together to help our planet thrive!
EDITOR’S NOTE: Email your letter to egtowncrier@gmail.com
Community Spirit, Fresh Produce, Local Charm
The Lingfield Farmers’Market
Are you looking for a delightful way to spend your Sunday morning?
Why not pop over to the Lingfield Farmers’ Market, which is held every second Sunday of the month at Lingfield Primary School, right in the heart of our charming Tudor village?
The next market is Sunday 10th August, from 9 am to 1pm, and it’s the perfect opportunity to soak in the vibrant, friendly atmosphere that feels like a slice of rural France.
Regular stallholders, many of whom know their customers by name, offer not just incredible local produce, but a sense of community too. It’s shopping the old-fashioned way – with conversation, connection, and care.
You’ll find all the essentials and plenty of treats:
• Freshly baked bread and artisan cheese
• A top-quality butcher
• Local honey, seasonal fruit and vegetables
• Jams, chutneys, and zingy chilli sauces
• Homemade cookies and cupcakes
• Flowers, plants and bulbs
• A welcoming coffee stall
• Bacon and sausage rolls – perfect for breakfast on the go and much more !!
There’s space to sit and enjoy a hot drink and bite to eat while catching up with neighbours, friends, and family. Whether you’re shopping or just relaxing, the market makes for a lovely Sunday outing.
Location: Lingfield Primary School playground
Please note: As it’s a school site, dogs are not permitted.
Volunteers Needed!
We’re always looking for friendly faces to help with the gates and car park. If you can lend a hand, we’ll say thank you with a free hot drink and pastry or breakfast roll! Just drop us a message if you’re interested. lingfieldfarmers@gmail.com or on Facebook @lingfieldfarmersmarket
Come along and support your local community – we’d love to see you there
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.
Aword from an artist on buying art!
by Town Crier columnist, Gill Bustamante
The internet has made buying art accessible to anyone. No longer does a brave potential buyer have to go to an art gallery where the silence of being observed by the gallery staff can be intimidating and where the choice of art is limited to what the gallery owner endorses. They can simply buy art from their home online.
One of the falsities that have fallen away due to art becoming more accessible to all is what you should buy. Evaluations about whether the artist is ‘collectable’ or not or whether they are ‘any good’. Art snobbery can be left to art dealers and people investing in art that they might not even like. The rest of us want art that thrills us and will continue to make us happy for years to come whenever we look at it!
The point I’d like to make is do not be fooled by people who tell you what you should like. Just because an artist is dead or ‘accredited by an expert’ doesn’t mean it is good art (there is plenty of awful
art around by accredited artists!).
Instead, buy art from living artists that you love regardless of whether the artist is a ‘name’ or whether some expert says you should or not. (Personally, I still sometimes get labelled as an 'emerging' artist online even though I emerged in the 60's and feel pretty much fully formed thank you).
A final tip is that most artists have their own websites. If you see a piece of art that you like in an online gallery (of which there are thousands) – do a search for the artist's name and find their own website where you will probably find the prices better and will ensure the artist gets to keep more profit!
Painting is called The Final Gift of Summerinspired by a walk in August near Lewes area.
Gill Bustamante - Artist gillbustamante.com
Run for TMD – Royal Parks Half Marathon
This year we have 50 places for the Royal Parks Half Marathon, and what better time to sign up and train than with sun shining.
We have had an amazing three years as a charity at the Royal Parks Half Marathon; we're hoping this year can be just as good if not better!
Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025
Location: St. James Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, London
Registration: £25
Sponsorship: We ask that our participants raise a minimum of £450 each.
Every TMD event you attend has a significant impact on the services we can provide, allowing us to support more families in the South-East.
Join Team Taylor-Made Dreams for an amazing event and support services now and in the future for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
What you’ll get as part of team TMD:
· Your own running vest or t-shirt
· Support from start to finish from all the TMD Team
· Help with your fundraising
· A cheer point on the day
· Cheering t-shirts and materials for your family and friends.
We know that fundraising can be just as challenging as the event, but our team will be on hand to help.
Alongside your support pack, we’ll be in regular contact with support, advice and ideas and on hand for any questions you might have about fundraising or training.
You can sign up for your charity place by contacting simon@taylormadedreams.org.uk
Website: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk
TMD Socials & Events: linktr.ee/thetmdteam
End of Stock Baby Towels for sale!
£5 per towel, £8 for two, mix and match. Good quality cotton. White with white border, white with blue border or Panda towel. Free delivery in East Grinstead.area or P&P £3.95 Contact dominique.cook@lineone.net
Magma Firepits
Introducing theAmazingArt of Andrew Webb
East Grinstead’s Andrew Webb is a designer, artist and maker with 20 years of specialist experience using steel, stainless steel, bronze, aluminium, corten, cast concrete and glass.
As well as contemporary firepits (see example right) Andrew makes sculpture and bespoke work such as staircases, furniture and architectural metalwork.
He moved from London about 15 yrs ago into a workshop in Crawley, lives in East Grinstead and is currently making firepits, fabricating sculpture for artists mostly in steel, also making concrete plinths for sculpture.
His work other than fire pits is often concerned with sculptural forms and celebrates the qualities of the material. Andrew prides himself in the quality of the work and on customer satisfaction.
Working in a variety of materials such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium, bronze, in addition to Corten, cast concrete and others, he works with fine artists, sculptors, architects, designers and private clients to deliver high quality fabricated artworks and architectural metalwork. (Pictured right is an example of his work but find many more at the link below)
Moreover, he designs and makes contemporary bespoke furniture and related items, ranging from tables in wood and steel, one-off lighting, to custom-made residential doors and most things in between!
As well as making furniture and custom objects for interiors he also makes garden pieces such as benches, rose arbours and sculpture.
Although specialising in steel, he prides himself on having a diverse skill set that enables a vast array of projects to be realised in a variety of materials.
For more information about Andrew and his work, please use the following links
Firepits https://www.magmafirepits.co.uk
Fabrication for artists https://magmasculpture.co.uk
Furniture and metalwork https://magmafurniture.co.uk
This monthly column is very kindly provided by Justin Kelly of How To Basically.
This month: Pallet woodwork
Pallet wood is a great, low-cost material that can be repurposed into everything from planters and benches to shelving units and coffee tables. With a bit of know-how and some basic tools, you can transform discarded pallets into practical, eco-friendly projects. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right pallets, break them down safely, and get building.
Choosing the Right Pallet
Not all pallets are created equal. Picking the right ones is key to both safety and success. Firstly look for the IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention) stamp which is put on any pallet that travels internationally:
It has a wheat sheaf logo on the left, then the country and manufacture code on the top right and most importantly on the bottom right how it was treated to give it longevity. The main method is “HT” which stands for Heat Treated and this is good for any project. If it has “MB” on it don’t use it and don’t burn it as it’s been treated with a toxic chemical called methyl bromide. If a pallet has been painted it belongs to one of the following pallet rental companies:
• Red pallets: pool LPR (La Palette Rouge from Europe)
• Red pallets: pool PECO (The Pallet Exchange Company from the USA)
• Blue pallets: pool CHEP (Commonwealth Handling Equipment Pool from Australia)
• Brown pallets: pool IPP (IPP Logipal from
Europe)
If you have a coloured pallet you should contact the relevant company for advice on returning it.
Further things to check are:
• condition of the wood; avoid cracked, split or overly weathered pallets or ones with oil stains, paint, mould or an odd smell;
• is it a block pallet (roughly 9 blocks of wood support the planks) or a stringer pallet (roughly three long pieces of wood support the planks) as with the latter you get some bonus wood!
• size and dimensions of the planks; some planks are quite thin and flimsy vs others are wide and thick; and
• how many nails are holding down the planks as any more than two on each end is going to be harder to lever out.
How to Safely Break Down a Pallet
Breaking down a pallet is often the hardest part of pallet projects. Do it right to maximise usable timber and minimise injuries. First wear gloves and eye protection as sometimes the nails can fly out. Ideally you get yourself a pallet breaker which will make your life a lot easier!
Then you’ll need some pliers, a claw hammer and a as long as possible crow bar.
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Insert the pallet breaker into one end of a plank and lever it back nice and straight. Try to avoid going off at an angle. If the plank won’t budge then move along to the next place it is resting on, you can also try coming at it from the other side. Gradually lever the plank off the base ideally not splitting it in the process. Don’t worry if you do split it as it’s free wood and you can sell/use it as kindling! Continued on next page
1. Pallet Wood continued from previous page Once you have the planks off you need to get the nails out. Best to keep some of the plank on the floor (rest it against your foot perhaps) and with the hammer band the end of each nail so it sticks out proud on the other side. Once you’ve pushed them all out flip the plank over and whilst keeping it on the floor use the claw of the hammer to lever them out. Keep the hammer rocking along the wood as opposed to off the side.
2. For stringer pallets some of the nails may be left in the underlying stringer wood. For these use the claw hammer or ideally a long crow bar to lever them out. Apart from often being rusty and/or bent, generally pallet nails have blunt ends so they’re not easily re-usable;
3. If at any time you break off a nail head or can get the nail out, either saw off that bit of wood
Recipe of the month
Dear Editor
I thought that readers of the Town Crier might like this simple recipe for a very healthy, high protein breakfast that sets you up nicely for the day.
I personally do fairly heavy physical work and this breakfast is the best I’ve found so far in terms of supplying me with the fuel I need.
and discard or else bang in the nail and use a marker pen to highlight the nail so you don’t inadvertently saw into it later on.
4. If you can’t easily break off the planks of wood then you could of course use a saw (preferably electric!) to simply cut through the wood. You just won’t get such long pieces.
Wood preparation
Once you have your wood pieces it’s time to sand them down. Sand paper has a number on the back which denotes its grit. P40 is the roughest and useful for pallet wood which can be rough, you can then move on to a general sandpaper (like P120) for a smoother finish. Now you have your wood ready to use!
Good first projects could be a planter, bird box or shelf. We run courses at How To Basically’s workshop (10 minutes east of Haywards Heath) so re interested.
First take a ripe avocado, scoop out the soft flesh and mash with a fork adding a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Take two organic eggs plus some grated cheese and grated mushrooms. Put them in a bowl and whisk thoroughly. You can use whatever quantity or type of cheese and mushrooms you want according to your taste.
Melt a small knob of organic butter in a frying pan.Amini frying pan is best in terms of
Pour in the eggs and gently cook for a few minutes, turning once (best to use a small plate for this, turning the omelette out onto the plate then sliding it back into the pan with the well cooked side uppermost.
Cook for another minute or two then turn out onto your breakfast plate. Then add a dollop of the mashed avocado. Then eat.
A.W.
Promote Yourself in the Town Crier
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 arises, be given priority in proportion to their generosity.
As we want to avoid the Town Crier becoming just another advertiser in which articles play second-fiddle to advertisements, we ask that where possible you submit an article about your charity, activity, event and so forth that will provide an interesting and engaging read. Such articles can be any length up to about 600 words and should be accompanied where possible with some pictures that will help grab attention plus any contact/ website/social media details you would like people to have.
Having said that, we will also do our best to place your announcements, event promo and so forth so please do send them in.
Best formats for images are JPEG and PNG.
Free Promotion for Local Businesses
If you are a local for-profit operation we will provide one free advertorial-style article per business. As described above we are looking for something that will engage, inform, inspire or interest our readers. Length can be up to 600 words, which would give you a full page of free advertising. Please also provide some pictures and full contact/website/social media details. Alongside the opportunity for a free advertorial we also provide very affordable advertising space (see below).
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.
PaidAdvertising in the Town Crier
In order to avoid becoming just another advertiser over-filled with ads, we are making only a limited amount of space available for advertising. This amounts to the equivalent of one page of advertising for every four pages of articles. It is to the benefit of advertisers in any case to have a magazine full of content people will want to read without a barrage of advertisements competing for their attention.
Advertising costs are being kept low and amount to the equivalent of roughly £10 or less per week for a quarter page ad. Our full pricing structure can be found here
To give further value for your paid advert, while you have a paid ad running in the magazine we will not run a paid ad for a competitor selling the same product or service. Where your ad clashes with a free advertorial by a competitor the advertorial will be placed in a different part of the magazine and every effort made to have your paid ad appear earlier in the magazine. Our policies regarding paid advertising are further explained here
We have also made advertising space available on the Town Crier website. See the details here
The door is also open for you to submit humorous/ satirical articles, poetry and verse, “how-to” tips and advice, interesting/entertaining news and titbits, recipes etc and if we publish your submission you can include a link to the website of your choice.
Farewell for now!
We hope you enjoyed this issue of the Town Crier. The July 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.
