ISSUE 5 FEBRUARY 2025 COMPLETE

The Town Crier

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

Issue 5 February 2025

Let’s help one another to do well and prosper

Welcome to the February 2025 Issue of the Town Crier !

Once again, it has been a joy putting this magazine together. There is no joy greater than the joy of creating, especially when it’s done in co-action with finest, most creative, most public-spirited people.

So I have a lot of people to thank for their contributions and creative input and you’ll find them as you read on in the pages of this magazine.

As I mentioned in the introduction to the January issue, it is my dream to grow the Town Crier itself into a vibrant, grassroots community and I am happy to report that that dream is coming alive - as all the best dreams do if you supply the life that is breathed into them.

So all there is left for me to say here is, please enjoy what the Town Crier community of citizens, volunteers, artists, carers, entrepreneurs, activists and local benefactors has to offer and don’t hold back on sending me your own submissions for the March issue.

Warmest regards, Steve Cook

New Feature: The Citizens’ Forum. Take a look at it and if you are of a mind to write in with points and bright ideas you would like to discuss. I really want to make the Citizens’ Forum a major feature of the magazine. A culture is as healthy as its members are willing and able to communicate.

Wild Ideas: Got an idea that might benefit your fellow citizens? Well, write it up and send it in. Be as imaginative and wild as you like. Yesterday’s wild idea can often be the foundation of a better tomorrow: like penicillin, space flight or, indeed, abolishing slavery.

Commended and Recommended. In life you tend to get what you admire or bestow with your attention, so let’s be generous of spirit and recognise the value of those who provide great service. Write in and Commend some person or group who sets a good example.

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

Submit!

The door is now wide open for your submissions for the March 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

And I’m sure there are many other topics I haven’t thought of so be daring, be creative! Get in touch. Email: egtowncrier@gmail.com

Columnists

I’m very pleased to acknowledge those who have kindly agreed to contribute a column of tips and advice each month for the general edification and enlightenment of the community. And I am very pleased to tell you that the wonderful artist Gill Bustamante of whom I am a huge fan, has kindly agreed to join the noble ranks of Town Crier Columnists with a column on how to paint and draw. Her first article appears in this issue.

Benefactors

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

Sponsors

Sponsors are those who support the Town Crier through very affordable paid advertising in the limited space we have allocated to it. Our policies on advertising can be found here

In Issue 5 we present . . .

East Grinstead Town Mayor, Steve Ody (Columnist) - page 4

East Grinstead Town Football Club - page 5

Christians Against Poverty - page 6

East Grinstead Lions - pages 7 and 10

We Grow - page 8

Another Recipe that Won’t Kill You - page 9

The Citizens’ Forum - page 9

Alison Earnshaw (Columnist) - pages 12 and 13

Sarah Dell Beauty Tips (Columnist) - page 14

Gill Bustamante on Art (Columnist) - page 14

Poem - page 15

Awakening the Moon - page 16

How to Basically - page 17

East Grinstead Bonfire - pages 18 and 19

Humour - page 20

The RH7 History Group - page 21

Samantha Ford on health (Columnist) - pages 22 and 23

The Ashurst Wood Short Mat Bowls Club - page 23

The Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir - page 23

Portland Vets on pet care (Columnist) - page 24

Judith Rayner (Columnist) on breathwork practices - page 25

The East Grinstead Handmade Market - page 26

Meridian FM - page 26

Modality Mid Sussex Patient Participation Group - page 27

Family Support Work - page 28

Sally Hansen Body Phonics (Columnist) - page 29

Sheri Gee, Artist - pages 30 and 31

Community First Responders - pages 32 and 33

The East Grinstead Jazz Club - page 34

Dominique Cook (Columnist) - page 35

Commended and Recommended - page 35

Helen Chisholm Maths Tutor (Columnist) - page 36

East Surrey Walkers (Lingfield/Dormansland) - page 37

Another Really Wild Idea - page 37

A Strong, Vibrant Community

East Grinstead’s Mayor, Steve Ody, reflects upon a busy and pleasurable January

January has been another busy month in East Grinstead, and I have had the pleasure of attending a number of wonderful events that showcase the vibrancy and strength of our community.

I had the privilege of welcoming the 8th East Grinstead Cubs to East Court, where we explored the history of this beautiful building.

I explained the meaning behind the various images on the town's coat of arms and shared insights into the role of a Mayor.

The Cubs were incredibly engaged, asking fantastic questions and demonstrating a real interest in local history and civic life. We wrapped up the visit with a special moment- each Cub had the chance to be Mayor for a minute, proudly wearing the mayoral chain.

Sporting excellence continues to thrive in our town, and I was delighted to officially start work on the new padel tennis courts at East Grinstead Sports Club.

Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the world, and these four covered courts - including a show court for competitions - will be a fantastic addition to our already impressive sporting facilities.

Once again, East Grinstead punches well above its weight in providing top-tier opportunities for sports enthusiasts.

Music is also a vital part of our community, and I was thrilled to attend an evening at the East Grinstead Jazz Club, run by the talented Jenny Green. The event at Chequer Mead was a fantastic showcase of live music, reinforcing just how strong our local music scene is.

For anyone interested, you can follow the Jazz Club on Facebook to stay updated on upcoming performances.

One of the most heartwarming events I attended was the annual Seniors’ Tea Dance at Sackville School, organised by two outstanding local charities, the East Grinstead Lions and Being Neighbourly. Over 160 senior residents from the town and surrounding villages enjoyed an afternoon of tea, dancing, and reconnecting with friends. A huge thank you to all the volunteers who made this event possible, from those who arranged transport to those who helped throughout the day.

A community that looks after its senior members is a strong one and this event was yet another reminder of the kindness and generosity that define East Grinstead.

As always, it’s an honour to be part of such a thriving and supportive town. I look forward to what the coming months will bring (only 3 months left!) and to seeing even more of you at the many events that make East Grinstead such a special place to live.

Are the Wasps East Grinstead’s best-kept sporting secret?

by Bruce Talbot

‘We’re (add name of team here), we know who we are.’ That has been sung at football grounds up and down the country for years now. You might have heard it on the TV, or even in a stadium if you’re a supporter of a Premier League club - Brighton perhaps, or Crystal Palace or one of the London-based teams like Arsenal or Chelsea.

A bit closer to home, the supporters who follow East Grinstead Town, not only at home but at their away games as well, occasionally shout it too. It’s their way of saying ‘we’re here, supporting our team, but we know our place.’

Make no mistake, those fans of the Wasps – their nickname since they first wore amber and black shirts more than a century ago – are as passionate about their team as supporters of one of the top clubs, it’s just there aren’t as many of them.

Did you know there has been a football club bearing the town’s name for 135 years and that many East Grinstead residents have at one time wore the amber and black? Possibly not would be the honest answer. In truth, the club have always had a bit of an identity crisis.

From its inception right up until the mid-1960s our ground at West Street was a corner kick away from the town centre, it used to be behind where Waitrose is now before it was sold for housing. Post-War crowds were often more than 2,000. After a few years at King George’s Field, we moved to our current ground at East Court in 1968.

I hear you. East Court is a big place. You might have walked your dog across its vast green spaces or even jogged around it on Saturday mornings at Park Run and seen the football pitches and perhaps wondered who played there. Well, not us.

Instead of singing ‘we know who we are’ perhaps our supporters might be better chanting ‘do you know where we are?’ But we don’t want the Vistavis Community Stadium to be the best kept sporting secret in the town. So, here’s a little geography lesson for the uninitiated but curious.

When you leave the town on the A264 towards Tunbridge Wells at the bottom of Blackwell Hollow there’s a mini roundabout and then, on your right,

the entrance to East Court. Turn in there, but instead

turn immediately left. There s a small sign on the lamp post pointing the way and a bigger sign, at the entrance to East Court, displaying details of our next home fixture. Anyway, follow the track, past the Rifle Club on your right and after about 300 yards East Grinstead Town FC will be in front of you.

And if you are wondering what to expect you might get a pleasant surprise. We have a ground that holds around 2,000 spectators, around 200 of which sit in a covered stand on a bank above the pitch. Our clubhouse and facilities are among the best in our league. You have to go through a turnstile to get into the ground, just like you would at Selhurst Park or the Amex. You can even pay with your phone.

Tempted? Well, there’s more. For the last ten years we’ve played at the highest level in our history in the Isthmian League South-East Division. For context, if you imagine that the Premier League is step one in the English football pyramid, we’re at step eight, playing teams from Surrey, Sussex and Kent. It’s a good standard played in nice surroundings 15 minutes’ walk from the centre of East Grinstead. You can even have a beer watching the match.

Tempted to pay us a visit? We’d love to see you, especially if it’s your first time. You can find our latest fixtures at:

www.egtfc.co.uk or on our Instagram, X (egtfcwasps) and Facebook page. See you soon!

Five ways to improve your finances in 2025

Why not make it your New Year’s resolution this year to prioritise your financial health? Many of us face money worries post-Christmas, and here at Christians Against Poverty (CAP), we want to share five top tips to empower you to take control of your finances.

1. Find out your financial personality

We all have different habits when it comes to managing money. CAP’s free, online money personality quiz can help you to better understand your spending habits and provides useful tips on building a healthier relationship with money.

2. Create a personal budget

Creating a personal budget is key to understanding your financial situation in order to make positive changes. A balanced budget will help give you a clear picture of how much money you have coming in each month, what you’re spending and where you’re spending it. It can also help you with saving for the future. Download CAP’s budgeting guide at capuk.org/budgeting to create your own personal budget.

3. Cut back, cut costs and cut out

To make your money go further, you can reduce spending by cutting back (reducing how much or how often you buy something); by cutting the expenditure out completely (identifying if it’s a need or want), or by cutting the cost (finding it cheaper elsewhere).

Consider buying second-hand, shopping around for the best price and use discount codes where you can. Plan ahead to give you plenty of time to shop around and use price comparison sites and online search engines to find the best deal. For grocery shopping, look for the cheapest supermarket, plan your shopping list ahead of time, and try not to shop when you’re hungry. Shopping in the evening may also lead to discounts on food approaching expiration dates.

4. Build up an emergency fund

It’s important to save for future emergencies. Start small so that it’s manageable within your budget and set up your bank account to transfer the money into a savings account automatically each month

so that you’re not tempted to spend it. An emergency fund can offer huge peace of mind, if and when unexpected costs arise.

5. Seek free help

Find out how CAP can help you further improve your financial situation. We provide free, expert debt advice and money education, all delivered face-to-face, so you’ll receive an effective combination of practical and emotional support.

For more information visit capuk.org/help or if you’re struggling with unmanageable debt, please call our free helpline on 0800 328 0006

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more.

Visit capuk.org to find out more or contact fionastraszynski@capuk.org your local debt coach for an informal chat.

AGreat Time had byAll! Lions Club Tea Party and Social Event

On Saturday 18th January, it was lovely to see 160 guests enjoying themselves at the East Grinstead Lions Club tea party and social event.

The event was supported by volunteers from Being Neighbourly, lively MC Hilary, David Kent (who organised the entertainment), the St John Ambulance team and many wonderful volunteers who helped make the afternoon such a success.

The afternoon entertainment commenced with a colourful belly dancing display by the EG Goddesses followed by the dulcet tones of Stepping Out (a Barbershop quartet) who serenaded the audience at their tables and later performed a set onstage.

After a delicious afternoon tea, the fabulous jazz singer and Meridian FM radio presenter, Jenny Green, followed up with a set of well-known songs and invited guests to come onto the dance floor to dance.

East Grinstead Town Mayor Steve Ody and MP Mims Davies attended the event and chatted to many of the guests and later stepped out on the dance floor as well.

To conclude the afternoon, a raffle draw was held where many lovely prizes were won.

The Lions 200 Club draw was also made - with a first prize of £150.

Guests were treated to a box of biscuits to take home and transport laid on for the journey home.

A great time was had by all!

Who are the We Grow Community?

The We Grow team is made up of people with all sorts of skills including community development and community organising, self-development, teaching, horticulture, permaculture, biodynamic gardening, market garden production, garden design and local activism.

Our networks of growing groups are currently focused in Forest Row, Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough and surrounding areas. We Grow also runs funded projects, in partnership with other organisations, on large plots around Sussex.

We support groups to develop strong, positive relationships with each other and the local network they’re part of.

Growing Community whilst Growing Food is at the heart of what we do.

For more information please visit our website at wegrow.org.uk

Too gorgeous to leave out

We are featuring this photograph for the very good reason that it’s too good not to.

So here it is!

The credit for it goes to Town Crier Columnist Alison Earnshaw.

Nice one, Alison!

Another Recipe that Won t Kill You

Here is a very easy way to make tasty, sugar-free all-organic scones that are great with organic butter and a dollop of St Dalfour sugar-free jam.

Preheat your oven to 180 C.

In a large mixing bowl put 200g of organic flour. You can use any flour you prefer but I’ve found the best one for these scones is Dove’s Farm Organic Fine Plain Wholemeal Flour.

To the flour add a pinch of natural sea salt.

Then add one tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda.

Then add 1 or 2 tablespoons of Stevia natural sweetener. You can vary the amount according to your taste.

Take a fistful of walnuts (you can vary the amount according to your taste or use different nuts if you prefer) and grind them up -in a blender is easiest.

Mix these ingredients together thoroughly and add 20g of organic coconut oil. Using your hands, work the coconut oil in finely.

Carefully add organic full-fat milk bit-by-bit mixing as you go until your mixture is moist and stodgy but not runny. You need to be able take some and shape it into a ball then have it keep its shape without collapsing.

Then mix in one large organic egg.

Then shape the mixture into about ten balls and stand them on a baking sheet.

Put them in the oven for 15 minutes.

Take them out and let them cool.

Then scoff them. I know I do . . .

Citizens’Forum

The “Wild Idea” referred to in the letters below is on page 37 of the January issue of the Town Crier

Their response has in turn inspired me to create the “Citizens Forum” in which folk will be given space to air and share their constructive thoughts and ideas.

Please feel free to write to me on any idea that interests or inspires you.

The Collins dictionary defines a forum as, “a place, situation, or group in which people exchange ideas and discuss issues, especially important public issues.”

So let’s create one. I will expand the magazine and/ or website space allocated to it as needed so don’t hold back! Feel free to communicate!

So with thanks to the authors, I am pleased to publish their letters as the first items in the new Citizens Forum

Further to a small feature in the January issue regarding a “wild idea” of possibly using an empty shop as an artist space, I am wondering if there are any other local artists which were intrigued by this concept and would be open to a discussion? I am a Dormansland based artist predominantly focused on wildlife and would love to expand my connections with fellow local artists as well as explore opportunities to bring our art and passion to the local community.

Claire Heffron https://www.claireheffronart.co.uk

I was alerted to your Wild Idea in the January edition, for artists to come together at Broadley Brothers or other suitable empty shops in the town. It’s a fantastic idea - there are so many artists in East Grinstead, and there is nowhere, currently, that we can show work. Many years ago we were able to hire the gallery at Chequer Mead but that has since been converted into a dance studio. I’d be interested in connecting with local artists or even local premise owners/ landlords to find out if there’s a way that we can bring some colour and culture to empty shops in the town. Thanks for raising this as an idea.

Sheri Gee www.sherigee.com

Who are the East Grinstead Lions?

Lions International started in Chicago, USA in 1917 to help those in need.

It was so successful that it soon expanded and now has Lions Clubs in over 200 countries, with nearly 1.5m members in over 49,000 clubs worldwide, making Lions International the largest service organisation in the world. The Lions International motto is ‘We Serve’ and globally Lions support five main causes: diabetes, vision, hunger, childhood cancer and the environment, plus youth and disaster.

East Grinstead & District Lions Club (founded in 1968) are a friendly, enthusiastic group of volunteers who support the local community through fundraising events and community projects.

A main fundraising event the Lions organise is the May Fair which has been held in the High Street on May Bank Holiday Monday since 1979. This hugely popular event (this year Bank Holiday Monday, 5th May) has something for all the family with stalls, rides and entertainment throughout the day.

Another main fundraising event of the year is the sale of the Lions Prize Advent calendar and Xmas cards and raffle tickets. Monies raised go towards the annual Prostate Screening event held at East Court and the much-loved Senior Citizens’ Tea Party and Social event held at Sackville School. The Lions have now run six Prostate Screening events with over 4,000 men tested, which has undoubtedly saved many lives.

Other fundraising comes from the sale of refreshments at the Town Council’s East Court Live events, Vintage Bus Running Day and 10K Andy Ripley Memorial run. The sale of second- hand books at their Bookshop in Martell’s store and at East Grinstead and Lingfield railway stations also brings in much-needed funds.

The EG Club meets on the first Monday of the month in the Dorset Arms at 7:30pm. If you would like to come along to one of our meetings and hear about what we do or would like to find out more about our volunteering opportunities, please contact the Club’s Secretary on 0345 833 9506 or via Facebook www.facebook.com/ eastgrinsteadlions or email eganddlions@gmail.com

T he Importance of Being… ‘Ernest’!

Alison Earnshaw recalls discovering that some East Grinstead neighbours may be closer than you think!

It was a challenging time for everyone, the year that Ernest became our neighbour in East Grinstead. The Spring of 2020 flowed into Summer in a manner no-one had anticipated. Changes to the usual routines and activities, accompanied by uncertainty of how long these changes would last and where it would all end, meant that our usually friendly and communicative corner of town grew quiet and deserted. Neighbour still waved to neighbour from a distance on the rare occasions we happened to be outdoors at the same time but the mood was sombre.

Then Ernest arrived!

As can happen when a new neighbour moves in, lock, stock and barrel, his arrival was heralded with much noise and fanfare. One evening as dusk fell we heard a resounding, low-pitched hooting, so close that it seemed to emanate from the windowsill. The tree at the end of our small garden was in leaf; looking out, we realised the eerie sounds seemed to be coming from there but we couldn’t pinpoint the exact source… yet!

Persistent calls and loud hoots became a regular event each evening until finally, a week or so later, there he was in all his feathered glory! A large Tawny Owl, perched on the garden fence, about 20 feet from our window, surveying us with an unwavering and apparently disapproving stare. His somewhat Victorian and scholarly demeanour led us to name him Ernest, which, without wishing to anthropomorphise too much, seemed to suit him rather well.

He was now a resident in our section of the street, lifting spirits of an evening in our house and those nearby. He made regular twilight rounds of our little gardens and when we encountered our neighbours in the socially-distanced supermarket queue or out for a one-hour walk, how lovely it was to talk about something separate from what was on the news; to wit (sorry!) sightings of the new arrival, who by now had become very popular with us all. Everyone’s individual experiences and challenges in 2020 and 2021 may have varied considerably but appreciation of our very own resident Owl in the immediate locale united us all

just that little bit, from age 7 to 70.

Our road is fairly near East Grinstead town centre and in the decades I’ve lived here an owl in clear sight in the garden is something I’ve never experienced before or since. Whether it was the changes to the general atmosphere or traffic noise or activity patterns that brought Ernest to us at that time, who knows but hearing his call from the fence each evening, looking out to spot him and marvelling at the silence of his flight gliding from fence to tree-top and on to more distance huntinggrounds was a welcome and joyful distraction.

With much excitement we then got to meet his adolescent fledgling family, two half-grown owl chicks (I’m told they’re called owlets, adorably!) who would position themselves on low branches. At their tender age they weren’t as disapproving as Ernest and appeared to be merely curious about us, half-flying, half-fluttering, from branch to branch. Our neighbour managed to get a few photos of them as they perched in the trees, watching and waiting and just being their own miraculous selves.

The year passed, traffic and usual routines gradually resumed; our Tawny Owl sightings grew fewer in 2021 and finally stopped. Ernest and his family seemed to have distanced themselves again.

Continued on next page

The importance of being . . . Ernest – continued from previous page

We do occasionally hear what we like to think could be them, much further away now. We miss seeing them and are so grateful to have had the chance to observe their lives up close, so that at least one memory of that time could be a positive one. This corner of Sussex has such an amazing wealth of wildlife, countryside and nature within easy reach. It was one of the things I valued most when first relocating from Croydon to East Grinstead…and it was lovely that when we couldn’t get out much the wildlife came to us, at least for a while.

As the song says, ‘Everybody Needs Good Neighbours’.

Ernest and his family were up there with the best of them!

Alison is a former Modern Languages and S.E.N.D. teacher; currently working on an original music production with 'Shot Full Of Rock & Friends'. To find out more, go to: www.shotfullofrock.co.uk and https://www.instagram.com/shotfullofrock/

Your Skincare and Beauty Tips with Sarah Dell

Do you know your Skin Type?

Understanding your skin type can be tricky. With so much conflicting information around, it can be hard to understand and establish the best skincare routine that will keep your skin looking its best all year round.

Follow these steps when doing your evening skincare routine to find your skin type:

1. Cleanse your face and pat dry with a clean towel.

2. Wait for 30 minutes (avoid applying any products during this time).

3. After the 30 minutes is up, what does your skin feel like? Is it…

• Tight, dull or flaky? - You have dry skin

• Shiny all over? - You have oily skin

• Shiny on the forehead, nose and chin but dry across the cheeks? - You have combination skin

• Red, inflamed or itchy? - You need to work on improving the skin’s barrier function.

• If you don't have any of the above, then you have balanced skin!

Try this out and get ready for follow-up articles in the Town Crier, where I will provide top tips on how to best care for your skin type.

But if you don’t want to wait, feel free to book a free consultation at my Beauty Studio:

1st Floor, 14 High Street, East Grinstead, RH19

3AW (above the Mad Dog café)

Phone 07834 825 397

Website Beautifulbrowslushlashes.com

Facebook: Beautiful Brows & Lush Lashes

Instagram: enhanceyourbeautywithsarah

Go Drawing!

I’m delighted to announce that renowned artist Gill Bustamante has very kindly agreed to share some of her hard-won knowhow with you through a monthly column in the Town Crier.

Here by way of an introduction is Gill’s first article. Enjoy!

Long before writing was invented, people expressed their ideas with a sketch. Children still do this as they still have the ability to draw unselfconsciously (at least until others start correcting them).

Unfortunately, modern education does not always allow for the teaching of drawing. This is quite a tragedy as it is robbing people of one of the simplest forms of improving wellbeing and de-stressing that exists.

I think that this is because when you look at the world normally you don’t really see it in any detail but when you look at something with the aim of capturing something of it in a drawing, you really do begin to notice things you never saw before. And the more you observe what is around you, the more connected you tend to feel to your environment - and that in turn can make you feel more in control of life generally.

The only barrier to overcome when you start drawing is the one of ignoring the former criticisms and advices of well-meaning (or otherwise) teachers or friends. Just go ahead and draw as well or as badly as you can.

Why am I writing this? Because I was lucky enough to discover the therapeutic properties of drawing very early in life and I wish to pass it on!

Gill Bustamante, artist and art tutor www.gillbustamante.com

AwakeningtheMoonspiritualandwellbeing fairisbackfor anotheryear

After 3 really successful fairs in 2024, I have decided to come back this year bigger and better.

Come and join me on March 16th 11 -5.30 at the Felbridge Hotel for a day filled with positive energy and enlightenment.

Explore a variety of businesses offering spiritual and wellbeing products and services, from crystals to tarot readings, Reiki to reflexology, there's something for everyone looking to enhance their mind, body, and soul.

Connect with like-minded individuals and take part in 1 or all of the 7 workshops: meditation, live sound baths, mediumship demonstrations or breathwork workshops available to further awaken your spiritual journey.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to nurture your wellbeing in a supportive and uplifting environment.

£500 worth of talks and workshops for just £10 or you can pre book tickets now at Eventbrite for £7 +£1.30 booking fee.

Here’s the link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ awakening-the-moon-spiritual-and-wellbeing-fairtickets-1104471978419

36 independent businesses, 7 talks and workshops, Free Parking Disabled access Food and drink available

Using a Power Drill for Jobs around the House

This month’s handy DIY tips from How to Basically

A cordless power drill is one of the most versatile tools for home DIY projects. Whether you’re assembling furniture, drilling holes or driving screws, a drill makes the job easier and faster. Here’s a guide to help you use it safely and effectively.

1. Choosing the Right Drill:

• Get a cordless one with a brushless motor

• Get two lithium batteries so you have a fullycharged one available when one runs out. Batteries come in different capacities measured in “amp hours” or “Ah”. They range from 1.5 to 15 Ah but 2Ah is plenty for normal home use. Bear in mind that larger amp hour batteries are significantly more expensive and heavy

• Drills come in different voltages (e.g., 12V, 18V, 20V). Higher voltage provides more power but can be heavier. An 18v one is plenty for general jobs

• Some cheap brands can prove fine for general DIY (e.g. Titan or Ryobi) but if you can, go for a mid-range brand like Dewalt or Makita

• Make sure your drill has adjustable speed settings (typically a 1 or 2 setting on the top), torque settings for driving in screws (typically 1 to 15 on a dial), a hammer setting (for drilling into masonry) and a keyless chuck for easy bit changes.

2. Drill bits (for making holes)

• Initially buy a set (for wood, masonry/plaster board, metal/plastic and tiles) and then in due course you can replace individual ones as need be. High Speed Steel (“HSS”) drill bits are useful as they can be used for wood, metal and plastic.

• For making large holes in wood or plasterboard (e.g. to run cables behind cabinets) use a spade bit or hole saw.

3. Screw bits (for driving in screws)

• Initially buy a set and then in due course you can replace individual ones as need be.

• You need the screw bit to be:

a) the same shape as the screw head (typically either flat, Philips (“PH”), pozi drive (“PZ”, like a Philips but with extra groove in between the cross), hex (aka allen key) or torx (star shaped); and b) the same size (typically measured by 0-4, e.g. a small Philips screw head might need a PH0 or PH1 size screw bit).

4. Safety

• Ideally wear safety glasses and ear defenders especially if drilling into masonry

• Secure the thing you’re drilling/screwing into

• Place one hand on the trigger and the other pushing on the back of the power tool

• When drilling, pull out the drill bit a little every now and again to help extract the bits, when extracting from wood keep drilling or else it will seem stuck

• When driving in a screw, trigger slow and push hard maintaining a 90 degree angle with the wall, you need to ensure the screw bit is sitting snuggly in the screw head. If the screw bit is jumping around then either

(i) the screw bit is not the same size as the screw head

(ii) you’re at an angle as opposed to flush into the screw head

(iii) your triggering too fast and/or

(iv) you’re not pushing hard enough on the back of the power tool.

5. Fixings:

For wood: drill a pilot hole roughly the length of the screw but thinner than its diameter

For plasterboard: don’t be phased by the plethora of options! Consider self-drill fixings for light loads and Fischer’s Duotech cavity fixings for heavier items For masonry: again there are lots of options but those (typically brown) plastic plugs are fine for most jobs. To drill the right depth wrap a bit of tape on the drill bit. There are also concrete screws (which just need a pilot hole).

Good luck!

If you want to have in-person instruction please book a Power Drill class at How To Basically’s workshop near Scaynes Hill.

We Burn for Good!

The East Grinstead Community Bonfire

The Chairman and members of East Grinstead Community Bonfire extend a wholehearted thank you to everyone for their incredible support at our event on Saturday 19th October last year.

We are more than just flames and fireworks!

Throughout the year we actively support many local organisations. Indeed, by the time you read this our members will have been assisting the Ashplats Conservation Group and Turners Hill School coppicing trees in their woods.

Coppicing serves two purposes. Firstly, it improves the health and biodiversity of the woodland area by opening it up to sunlight. This allows a wider range of flora and fauna to flourish. Secondly, the felled staves, rather than being wasted, are used for our torches.

Other events at which we proudly assisted at last year included marshalling at numerous community events. EG Live at East Court and the Veteran Car Day held in High Street. This year we have been asked to provide the marshals for the East Grinstead Vintage Bus Running Day to be held in High Street on 27th April. We actively support the Town Council, EG Rotary and EG Lions fostering the community spirit for which East Grinstead is famous. You may have noticed our members providing a torchlit guard of honour for the Mayor as he lit the beacon on King George’s Field to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day This year we have been asked to provide a torchlit guard of honour for the local dignitaries at the 80th anniversary of VE day on the 8th of May.

Each year East Grinstead Community Bonfire support local charities. Half the funds raised at our event in 2024 have already benefited last year’s chosen charity, East Grinstead Defibrillators, while the rest will support our 2025 event. This year we will be looking for two different charities to support.

Our main aim is to put on a free torchlit procession through the town, followed by a spectacular bonfire and firework display, for all members of the East Grinstead community. We know that this certainly brings in additional trade to many local businesses.

Now for a bit of history!

The foundations of Sussex Bonfire predate the traditions around Guy Fawkes. It stems from the death of 17 martyrs in Lewes High Street in the mid 1550’s. Indeed, three such martyrs suffered the same fate outside what is now 34 High Street, East Grinstead in 1556. These three are commemorated in St Swithun’s Churchyard.

Adopting the celebration of Guy Fawkes’ exploits in 1605 gave revellers an excuse to partake in a bit of civil disobedience. Fast forward to the end of the Napoleonic wars in 1820. The returning conscripted men felt real hardship and formed themselves into groups around the ports. Each group had a different coloured striped sweater. This was the foundation of the Smuggler Guernsey that bonfire groups wear today. These days people of many different faiths, or of no faith at all, are members of Bonfire Societies throughout Sussex.

Please keep a lookout on our social media pages for details of various fundraising events that we hold throughout the year. These events are to raise funds to help run our event which, this year, will be on Saturday October the 18th.

If you would like more information about our group or how to become a member and assist us in fundraising and helping us create this event, please visit us at www.egcbonfire.co.uk

FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM

Remember the motto of the combined Sussex Bonfire Societies is – We Burn For Good.

East Grinstead Bonfire—Gallery

New Pedestrian Speed Limits in Force by 2027

Government to introduce restrictions as safety concerns grow

by Steve Cook

The government today announced that as from 2027, new speed limits for pedestrians will come into force. The move is a response to growing fears about the safety of pedestrians on the nation’s pavements and is an effort to reduce the casualties that could possibly happen to people all over the country as a result of potentially fatal collisions caused by people walking too fast, not looking where they are going and losing control of their bodies on tight bends and so forth.

The matter was brought to a head recently by the tragic death of George Dimm of Knockdown Fell in Derbyshire whilst on a day trip to London. Mr Dimm died at the junction of Mincing Lane and Fenchurch Street when he took a corner too fast, lost control and veered into the road where he was knocked down by a bus.

Whilst a postmortem later revealed he was well over the drink-walk alcohol limit at the time of the tragedy, the incident nevertheless underscored the government’s growing safety concerns. As a spokesperson for the Ministry of Silly Walks (MSW) explained:

“This tragedy is but one example of the kind of senseless death that almost occurs a million times a day on account of people irresponsibly walking about in a reckless manner and it simply has to stop before someone else is hurt. This government is absolutely committed to people not getting hurt –except through the usual, official channels of invading countries, psychiatric treatment and so forth.”

Another case in point that highlights the threat to the safety of every citizen is the severe bruising sustained by Dorothy Cornfoot in an horrific collision in the centre of Leicester last Tuesday. As Ms Cornfoot explained:

“I was late for work and, I admit, in a bit of a hurry and walking much too fast for the conditions –which were wet. I overtook a slow-moving pensioner in a Zimmer frame and collided with a

lamp post coming in the opposite direction.”

It was this latest tragedy that finally spurred the government to take strong action before anyone else gets bruised. Accordingly, there will be stiff fines for anyone exceeding the new two-miles-an-hour speed limit in built-up areas and three miles an hour on open country pavements.

In addition to exceeding the speed limit, there will be fines and possible walking bans for repeat offenders for such offences as:

Reckless walking

Walking without due care and attention

Walking under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Walking in an offensive manner

Running or jogging without a licence (see below)

Walking whilst texting

This will of course have an effect on many of the nation’s joggers who will henceforth have to jog very slowly – although those unable to jog very fast, believed to be in the majority, will probably not be affected at all. However, a new Jogging Licence will be introduced: the sum of £500 per year will authorise anyone who wishes to do so to go on torturing themselves in the traditional way. The licence will not, however, entitle anyone to jog whilst texting for obvious reasons.

The government is also considering introducing electronic pavement-side displays linked to speed cameras, which flash an oncoming pedestrian’s speed with a “Thank you for walking slowly” message for those in compliance with the speed limit and “Slow Down!” for those inadvertently walking too fast.

The pedestrian speeding fines and jogging licences are estimated to provide an additional revenue for the government of a £100 million per year, although the MSW spokesperson was quick to point out that, “These measures are driven entirely by our concerns about looking concerned about public safety and have nothing whatever to do with squeezing extra revenue from the citizenry.”

Related Article:

Concerns over the safety of jogging grow as nobody can recall ever seeing the same jogger twice.

ENT TO INTRODUCE SPEED LIMITS AS SAFETY

An Introduction - watch for us in future issues of the Town Crier

The RH7 History Group is the local history group which, as our name suggests, focuses on the RH7 postal district. That means we cover the south-east Surrey communities of Lingfield, Dormansland, Crowhurst, Blindley Heath and Newchapel.

We meet on the second Monday evening of every alternate month (January, March, May, July, September and November) at the Lingfield & Dormansland Community Centre in the High Street, Lingfield. The talks start at 8pm, with doors open from 7:30pm. We generally have a visiting speaker to talk on local or topical subjects. Our next talk is by Bob Evans, one of our members, on Monday 10 March. He will speak about East Grinstead –Weird, Wealden and Wonderful. For more details

of future talks, see the “Events” page on our website, “rh7.org”.

Membership fees are £12 single and £18 joint (two members at the same address). Non-members are very welcome to attend our meetings - there is a £2.50 charge for visitors.

Our website also contains 135 factsheets on local history, which have been written by our members since the Group’s inception in 1999. Please feel free to read them.

Members of the Group also act as archivists for the Hayward History Centre, which is based in Lingfield Library. The Centre collects and maintains archival material of the RH7 postal area. Archiving sessions take place in the Library on the morning of the first Thursday of each month. If you have any historical queries about our area, then please either come to one of our archiving sessions or contact us by email at rh7histsoc@gmail.com

Stress Less, Love Yourself More

Well Healthy

Helping you live a freer, healthier life

This month, Samantha Ford of Unique Welllth presents:

February is the month traditionally dedicated to love, and it’s the perfect time to focus on something essential for YOUR health: how to prevent stress before it takes hold. While diet, exercise, and sleep are often the focus of wellness goals, emotional well-being and proactive stress management are just as important. Why? Because you are important.

Stress is unavoidable in daily life, from work pressures to family demands. But while we can’t eliminate stress entirely, we can prevent it from taking over our lives. By proactively addressing stress before it spirals, we set ourselves up for better mental and physical health. This month, let’s make self-compassion and stress prevention the priority - because taking charge of your stress helps you feel more in control and more resilient.

Preventing Stress with Self-Compassion

Self-compassion isn’t just about being kind to yourself when things go wrong; it’s about proactively building resilience so that when stress arises, you’re better equipped to manage it. By practising self-compassion, you can reduce the negative impact of stress before it becomes overwhelming.

Rather than waiting until stress takes hold, selfcompassion allows you to acknowledge pressure and frustration as part of life without letting them dictate your well-being. It’s about reducing the stress response before it escalates into feelings of burnout or anxiety.

Why Preventing Stress is Crucial for Your Health

When stress goes unmanaged, it can lead to fatigue, poor sleep, weakened immunity, and even chronic health problems. By taking proactive steps to reduce stress, we improve our mental health and set the stage for healthier habits. Self-compassion

helps you respond to stress in a gentle way, allowing you to avoid the negative effects of stress.

Recognising Stress Triggers Early

One of the first steps in preventing stress is identifying the triggers that cause it. Is it a looming deadline? A full calendar? An ongoing family issue? Recognising these triggers before they overwhelm you gives you the opportunity to take action. Ask yourself: What can I do now to reduce the impact of this?

Nourish Your Mind, Body, and Soul

Self-compassion is not just about positive selftalk it’s about taking intentional actions to care for yourself and prevent stress from building up. Here’s how to keep stress at bay:

Eat for Energy: Stress often makes us crave comfort foods, but these can cause energy crashes. Choose whole, balanced meals that support sustained energy.

Prioritise Restful Sleep: Sleep is a key part of stress management. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep and create a bedtime routine that helps you unwind and recharge.

Move to Release: the right kind of physical activity helps clear stress from the body by releasing feelgood endorphins. Even a short walk or stretching routine can help you reset and feel more centred.

Stress Prevention

Mindfulness: This is about being present and aware, aiming to manage stress before it overwhelms you. By staying mindful, you can recognise when stress is starting to build and take steps to manage it. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or taking a quick moment to check in with yourself can make a huge difference.

Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Continued on next page

WellHealthy continued from previous page

Challenge Negative Thoughts: When stress starts to creep in, replace negative thoughts with realistic and positive perspectives.

Seek Support Early: Don’t wait until stress becomes unbearable reach out to loved ones or a coach when you notice stress building.

Prevention is key, and self-compassion is a powerful tool to stop stress before it takes hold. Make the choice to proactively manage your stress. Taking small, intentional steps now, you can reduce its impact and create a foundation of wellness for the future.

For more tips and your FREE guide to bringing calm to your life in 5 ways and just 10 minutes, then head over to www.uniquewellth.coach

You can connect with Samantha on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram

Ashurst Wood Short Mat Bowls Club

meets every Friday afternoon from 2.15pm to 4.30pm at Ashurst Wood Village Hall, Maypole Road, Ashurst Wood.

We pay £3 which includes tea/coffee and biscuits.

Come along and give it a go - experienced bowlers or complete novices are very welcome. Learn the game and have fun.

We are a friendly group, of mixed ages and abilities.

All equipment is provided, we just ask that you wear flat shoes.

For more information please contact Roger Pratt roje1@sky.com

The Crawley Down Ladies’ Choir

Our new year started on January 13th 2025 when we met on our usual Monday evening for a 7.30 start in The Birch Room at The Haven Centre, Crawley Down.

We have a new programme of songs which we are learning for our Summer concert to be held on Saturday June 14th in The Dorothy Hatswell Hall, also located in The Haven Centre.

The following week on Monday January 20th we held a “Come and Sing” evening, open to all to come along and sing with us, find out about us and hopefully join our choir which proved a successful evening.

Singing is good for both your physical and mental wellbeing, joining a choir connects you with like-minded individuals who just love singing.

We sing a variety of songs ranging from folk music to pop and numbers from the musicals, both old and new. New singers are most welcome.

For further information about the choir, please see our website at https://crawleydownladieschoir.co.uk

Keep Those Tails Wagging: It's Pet Dental Health Month

February's here, which means it's Pet Dental Health Month! At Portland Vets, we're passionate about keeping your canine companions happy and healthy, and that includes their teeth.

We know dental health is easy to forget about, but it's a really important part of your dog's overall wellbeing. Why not have a quick peek right now and check your dogs oral health whilst we've reminded you?

That sticky film you sometimes see on your dog's teeth? That's plaque, and it can cause problems that your dog relies on you, their human, to keep on top of. If it's not dealt with, it hardens into tartar and can lead to all sorts of problems – from gum disease and tooth decay to even more serious health issues. We're talking about bacteria getting into the bloodstream, which we always want to minimise the risk of.

Dogs are brilliant at hiding when they're in pain, so you need to be a detective! Here are some clues that your dog might be having dental issues:

• Bad breath (we're not talking puppy breath here!)

• Discoloured teeth

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

• Trouble eating or chewing

• Pawing at their mouth or being a bit grumpy

Spotted any of these signs? Get booked in with your vet for a check-up.

Luckily, keeping your dog's teeth healthy doesn't have to be a battle. Here's what you can do:

• Brush, brush, brush! Daily brushing with dogfriendly toothpaste is your best weapon against plaque. AVOID human toothpaste, it can contain Xylitol which is toxic to dogs.

• Treats and Toys: Dental treats and toys are a great way to make dental care fun!

• Healthy Food: A good diet is important for everything, including their teeth. Some foods are even designed to help keep teeth clean.

• Regular Check-ups: Just like us, dogs need professional dental care. Regular visits to the vet are essential for keeping plaque at bay and catching any problems early. Plus, did you know many pet insurance policies won't cover dental treatment unless you've had regular check-ups, so it's worth checking your policy.

At Portland Vets, we know that healthy teeth mean a healthier and happier dog. Our Pet Wellness Plus plan includes savings on dental treatments and unlimited free vet consultations, so you can pop in for a dental check-up whenever you need to.

Don't wait until there's a problem. This Pet Dental Health Month, give your dog the gift of healthy teeth.

Contact Portland Vets independent, family-owned practice today to book an appointment or chat about our Pet Wellness Plans.

ARemedy for SleepApnea?

Last year I had trouble with horrific sleep apnea. This was the feeling that as I nodded off I had stopped breathing.

It was a terrifying sensation that was so bad I was often scared to go to sleep. It felt as if I had been poisoned. Then one day I connected it with eating sugar during the day, usually in the form of biscuits or chocolate

So I knocked off all sugar, including honey, fruit juices, soft drinks, processed food etc. Not only did my health and mental state improve tremendously, I've not had sleep apnea since - except on two occasions when I relapsed and had some sugar. Even a small amount of sugar seems to set it off. So I'm wondering how many other people with sleep apnea would benefit from quitting sugar.

I’ve since learned that sugar is poison and even had the connection with sleep apnea confirmed by the fantastic Dr Berg.

I highly recommend you give it a try and see if it works for you. Write in and let us all know how it went.

The Breathing Room: Love Starts Here

Judith

Rayner’s monthly column

February the month of love!

While shop windows fill with hearts and flowers, I’ve been thinking about a different kind of romance: the art of being kind to ourselves.

In my coaching practice, I often meet incredible people who pour their energy into caring for others - at work, at home, in their communities - while putting themselves last on the list.

Sound familiar?

Yet some of the biggest transformations I’ve witnessed have started when people learn to extend the same kindness to themselves that they so naturally offer others.

Think about it - when a friend is having a tough day, we know exactly what to do. We listen, we support, we encourage. But when it’s our own tough day? That’s when the critical voice often kicks in, telling us to try harder, do better, be more.

Here’s a game-changing practice I share in my workshops:

Heart Coherence Breath

Place one hand on your heart, breathe in through your nose, for a count of five and breathe out for a count of five - do a few rounds and speak to yourself as you would to your best friend. Give yourself positive messages and encouragement.

Sounds simple? Yes. Feels awkward at first? Maybe! But this small gesture can shift your entire day.

This month, I invite you to experiment with selfkindness:

Start your day with a moment of appreciation for yourself

Notice when you’re being self-critical and pause Take regular breaks (yes, you deserve them!)

Celebrate your small wins

The wonderful thing about practising selfcompassion is how it ripples out. When we’re kinder to ourselves, we have more genuine energy for others. It’s like the safety briefing on planes - put your own oxygen mask on first!

Want to explore more? How about joining one of my monthly workshops held locally at The Spirit Mind and Body Studio in East Grinstead – contact me on judith@walkandtalk4success.com to book.

Breathwork practices give us the chance to focus and become conscious of what we need in any moment - love really does start with how we treat ourselves first.

The above photo is of me on the steps at East Court in East Grinstead, where I was married 8 years ago – feeling the love!

Be kind, notice, breathe!

Judith

You can find Judith Rayner on Instagram or Facebook for local workshops and events

Or go to: www.walkandtalk4success.com

Contact judith@walkandtalk4success.com

The East Grinstead Handmade Market

sets that would not be easily available otherwise.

Items are often made from good quality local sources, supporting the community and reducing the waste associated with factory-made and imported items. Many are customised with names and dates and often at reduced prices to what might be found otherwise.

are crafters posting their latest items and some are people looking to purchase hand-made crafts also.

The group is especially popular at busy gifting times such as Christmas and Easter etc., however we promote all year round.

Some products are from people who are retired and making a small extra income from their valuable skills but others are using their spare time as a side-line hobby.

Sometimes you cannot find what you want in the shops or online easily and many of our crafters make handmade bespoke items and /or matching

If not already a member, join our page today and s valuable craft skills. If you’re a crafter in the town and not already a member, sign up and post your items for free today.

We will be holding our first local craft and gift market featuring many of the group Saturday 15th March the Scout Hut on Moat Road come along and support us on the day.

Find and join us on Facebook

Email us at HandmadeMarket@hotmail.com

Every Voice Should be heard

As larger stations cut back on truly local content, let’s make the most of our very own community radio

107 Meridian FM is putting out a warm invitation to local businesses and organisations to join forces with the station and help bolster our vibrant, home-grown broadcasting.

We’re especially keen to connect with groups that don’t always get the spotlight - because our airwaves are for everyone in the community and we believe every voice should be heard.

Getting involved with 107 Meridian FM can be as simple as having a chat live on air, sharing your events and services, or even presenting your own show - don’t worry, our friendly team will be there to guide you. Imagine the possibilities: you could reach new audiences, entertain your neighbours, and shine a light on the issues or causes close to your heart.

As larger stations cut back on truly local content, let’s make the most of our very own community radio. It’s run by people like you, for people like you. If you’d like to learn more, please email admin@meridianfm.com or ring 01342 325 825. We can’t wait to hear from you!

We are pleased to feature here the latest newsletter from the Modality Mid Sussex Patient Participation Group. But first here is an explanation of what the Modality Mid Sussex PPG is, quoted from their website:

“We are an independent group of volunteers and have no affiliation or dependency on the practice but we are working to fulfil the role of the PPG (as defined by the NHS) to enable good patient engagement between the practice and our community. PPGs are one of the ways that NHS England aims to share information about plans for healthcare and to obtain feedback .”

And what is Modality exactly? (I hear you ask). Here is an explanation (source) :

“General Practices across the country have been under great pressure. Demand has sky-rocketed and . . . it is difficult to find staff in this current climate and it takes time to train people but with the help of Modality Partnership, we aim to build a more resilient team and deliver improved services.

“There was a lot of confusion at first as to what Modality Partnership stood for with initial fears that the merger was a form of privatisation and distant from the values of the NHS. This is far from the case. Modality Partnership is an award-winning NHS super partnership made up of GP practices who continue to be owned by local GP partners. All that sets them apart from other traditional NHS partnerships is that they are a lot bigger. They have 130 partners across 49 sites looking after around half a million patients. Through their commitment to the NHS values and belief in cooperation and working together, Modality have successfully transformed many GP practices nationally.”

Modality Mid Sussex Patient Participation Group Newsletter No.2

We published our first Newsletter in the autumn of 2024 explaining the role of a Patient Participation Group (P.P.G.) It was coincidental with Modality Mid Sussex facing a crisis. The Care Quality Commission had conducted an audit in response to the ever-increasing complaints from a sizeable number of complaints from patients reflecting the ongoing deterioration in the service provided at all four health practices that make up M.M.S.

Our plan was to circulate another Newsletter within a few months, but prevailing circumstances prevented us from fulfilling our plan.

M.M.S. announced that they were planning to introduce a new system for patients to book appointments – RAPID HEALTH. The P.P.G. committee was given a comprehensive preview of Rapid Health. They met with M.M.S several times to discuss their plans and to make any comments and suggestions that we felt were relevant. The committee quickly recognised what a vast improvement Rapid Health would make to the service provided.

Changing the system for booking appointments would clearly be particularly challenging. The PPG offered to help in any way they could. This offer was gratefully taken up by M.M.S. They acknowledged how vital it was that patients were given advice on how to access and navigate the new system. With this in mind, M.M.S. organised public patient training sessions near each of the four health centres. Volunteer members of the P.P.G. were given comprehensive training so that they in turn could teach patients that attended these training sessions how to use the system. These training sessions were extremely well attended. The vast majority of patients that participated appeared to find the system easy to understand. They left the sessions feeling more confident.

Rapid Health went live on 23 October 2024. Initially, patients were very sceptical, but it quickly became apparent that the new booking system was a massive improvement on the previous system. Negative comments and abuse on social media dropped dramatically. Many patients made positive comments. Some patients even praised Modality!

There is still room for improvement. The P.P.G committee acknowledge the massive effort and resources that Modality have used to achieve this change. We also recognise that there is still a lot to do. We will do whatever we can to help aid M.M.S. and in turn, our patients.

Despite members of the committee devoting much of their time to assisting M.M.S. for the past two years, they have still been able to continue with some of their “normal” P.P.G. functions. They hope that they can now increase and broaden the scope of these assignments.

There will be more information in our next Newsletter.

On Saturday, 22nd February, at 3pm, there will be a Fundraising Concert in St Swithun’s Church performed by Choir&KO.

The concert is in aid of FAMILY SUPPORT WORK (FSW), a West Sussex Children’s Charity.

Choir&KO is a local choir which performs regularly at social and formal events across the Southeast, and at the London Southbank 'Hayes Galleria' and The Scoop. They performed for us to great acclaim last year at St Swithun’s.

The choir always welcomes new members, no audition required.

The East Grinstead branch meets on Monday evenings in term time at the Jubilee Church Community Centre, Charlwoods Road, from 8pm to 9.30pm. For more information see the website https://www.choirandko.com

In 2022, Gareth Malone said 'You are the choir I have been looking for'. He was true to his word, and Choir&KO have performed at several of his concerts.

At St Swithun's, a large choir will sing for 2x30mins, with their own arrangements of songs across all genres of music.

Family Support Work is an amazing and vital charity providing one-to-one intensive care by qualified social workers for children and families across Sussex.

Our East Grinstead practitioner currently supports about 16 local families and 40 children. Many have multiple needs and there is a waiting list for her help.

The support practitioner visits homes, providing listening, parenting advice, help to manage money, support to find work, referral to specialist services, attending appointments, advocating for families and food and clothing when needed. She also arranges family days out and drop-in sessions to help parents at various locations locally.

This concert last year was tremendously successful and raised the amazing amount of £2600. It would be wonderful if we could raise the same or more this year. Funding and donations have taken a big hit this year due to various government decisions, (e.g. employers NI and winter fuel allowances) and help is very much needed. For more information go to

https://www.familysupportwork.org

TICKETS are £10 each, including a free refreshment break.

Please, please come and SUPPORT this very important CHARITY.

by Town Crier columnist Sally Hansen of Body Phonics

February: The month of

embracing Self-Love

February, the month of love, often turns our attention outward - towards relationships, romantic gestures, and grand declarations of affection. But true love, the kind that sustains us, begins within.

Our loving energetic centre is our heart chakra which governs our ability to give and receive love. When balanced, this energy centre radiates unconditional love, compassion, and joy. However, when blocked or imbalanced, we may struggle with feelings of unworthiness, lack of appreciation, or a disconnection from what truly brings us happiness.

To cultivate a healthy and open heart chakra, we must start with self-love. This is not the fleeting kind dependent on achievements or external validation, but rather a deep, unwavering acceptance of who we are.

One of the most powerful ways to nurture self-love is through presence - grounding ourselves in the moment and appreciating what is, rather than longing for what was or worrying about what may be. The practice of Reiki offers a beautiful framework for this through its guiding principles, each beginning with the words Just for today:

• Just for today, I will not worry.

• Just for today, I will not be angry.

• Just for today, I will be grateful.

• Just for today, I will do my work honestly.

• Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.

By focusing on these simple yet profound affirmations, we shift where love and gratitude already love without the pressure of perfecting it it becomes more accessible, more natural. Taking a deep breath, placing a hand over your heart, and simply acknowledging your own worth in this moment can be a transformative act of selfcare.

Valentine’s Day traditions may be rooted in romance, but they also carry a deeper symbolismparticularly the giving of roses. The rose is not only a symbol of love but also holds the highest vibrational frequency of any flower on the planet, just as love is one of the highest vibrational states we can be in as humans. When we bring roses into our space, the vibration helps to realign us with self-love.

A beautiful way to nourish the heart chakra is to do something purely for yourself - something that brings you joy, peace, or deep satisfaction.

Whether it’s preparing a meal you love, wearing something you love, taking a long nature walk, indulging in a creative hobby, or simply resting without guilt, these small acts of self-kindness affirm your own worth.

Another powerful way to strengthen the heart chakra is through acts of kindness towards othersa genuine compliment, a helping hand - sends ripples of compassion out into the world, reflecting back to us in return. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or an expensive gift. It can be as simple as a warm smile, a listening ear, or a moment of patience in a hurried world.

Email me: sally@bodyphonics.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram and Facebook

Introducing: LocalArtist, Sheri Gee

My name is Sheri Gee, I’m a local fine artist, specialising in figurative painting and local landscapes.

Although I have a degree in Illustration, my art practice really started in the early 2000s, a few years after I graduated. I set myself a New Year’s Resolution and began attending a local life drawing class, as I was barely drawing anymore. Continuing to attend for the next eleven years, I explored lots of different mediums and styles and taught myself to paint, first acrylics and then oils. My work today is really grounded in those formative years, which also explains my love of portraiture and figure painting.

‘Rain paintings’ form the largest body of my work. I was commuting into London from East Grinstead for twenty plus years, always, seemingly, stuck on a bus around Cannon Street. One particular rainy afternoon, as I was pressed against the bus window, I started to notice the lights and reflections on the wet road and pavement and took a few reference photos on my phone. Painting from this later at home, I began a series of small oil paintings which have since grown into quite a collection. I like to paint emotive pieces with soft focus, movement and bright colours.

Those Things I Said, oil on panel

Early in 2024 I began a personal project to paint 100 portraits (#100heads). I have been painting portraits for years and regularly take commissions but I’d seen the challenge on Instagram and thought that painting self-led portraits, across styles and references, would be really fun. It’s taking me longer than I expected, but I can’t put too much pressure on myself, as I have to fit it around everything else! A little way in, I painted from a lovely baby and grandmother photo and so enjoyed it, that I wanted to paint more. After a shout-out for photos on Facebook, I have now a precious collection of five baby paintings and hope to paint more from the photos I was sent. I’ve just completed portrait number 25, which was a self-portrait.

Continued on next page

17.52 More London, oil on canvas.

15/100 Heads, oil on paper

Continued from previous page

Aside from the figure, I also paint landscapes, sometimes taking my easel outside, or painting from references in the studio. I’ve painted on the streets of London quite a number of times now, with a group of artists. Often there are c.60 of us painting in one area together! I also love to paint the Ashdown Forest, aiming to capture an impression of the colours and flora through the seasons. I managed a few plein air sessions just before Christmas, but can’t wait until it warms up, to get back out there. Standing on one spot painting can get a bit too much after a few hours in the cold.

I sell my work from my website and at a number of exhibitions through the year. I have a few paintings at two London exhibitions over late February to April and a piece at The Marine Workshops in Newhaven, during March. This June I’ll be taking part in South East Open Studios, with a solo exhibition of work at Kingscote Vineyard, from 6-22 June. I’ll be working hard between now and then to make lots of new local landscape paintings.

I also teach a little, locally. I’ve been enjoying sharing my love of painting with a small group over the last year, exploring different subjects both in acrylics and oils. My class runs fortnightly Thursday evenings in Lingfield, but I’m taking enquiries via my Contact page for other classes and times.

Please visit my website at www.sherigee.com for more info and sign up to my newsletter to follow me on my art journey. INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

At Craft & Food Market that I am organising at The Ark in Turners Hill on Saturday 22nd March 2025 from 102pm, there will be a variety of stalls selling handmade items by crafters to small business owners, from candles to cakes, cocktails to ceramics and many other crafts that would make the perfect gifts for your mum or the mother figure in your life.

Pop along and support local small businesses!

Vikki Reeves

Scrumptious Little Bakery FACEBOOK

Me painting Buckingham Palace from St. James’s Park, London

Meet Your Local Community First Responders

When every second counts, Community First Responders (CFRs) are there - volunteers trained to provide life -saving care before an ambulance arrives. They’re your neighbours, colleagues, and friends, stepping up to support people in their most critical moments. But what drives someone to take on this vital role?

We spoke to the East Grinstead CFRs Darren, Sam, Neil, Sally, and Tamsin to learn more about their experiences. Here’s what they had to say.

Darren

I became a CFR in 2010 after reading about the scheme in the local paper. Already a trained workplace first aider, I was keen to learn more and give back to my community. Nearly 15 years later, I still love the role. It’s so different from my day job, and the satisfaction of helping someone in need never fades.

As local volunteers, we often arrive within minutes, typically before an ambulance. Whether it’s providing immediate care or reassuring a worried family, every call makes a difference. I mostly book on in the evenings but also respond during the

day when I can. Supporting my community in this way is incredibly rewarding.

Sam

I wanted a flexible volunteer role alongside my full-time job. As a workplace first aider and scuba diver, I read about someone with a similar background becoming a CFR and 12 years on, I’m still loving it.

Helping someone in their moment of need is the best part of this role. Whether it's providing care, supporting a family or being a calming presence. I can safely say that every call matters. The crews appreciate us too, and we’ve even been called angels in red before now!

Many don’t realise we’re volunteers or that we don’t have blue lights thankfully! Yet, we’re highly trained and often first on scene. Volunteering has been life-changing, teaching me resilience, quick decision-making, and giving me a deeper appreciation for community and as the Team Leader I’m super proud of all we offer.

Neil I was inspired to join after a workplace first aid incident where a paramedic mentioned the CFR role. That conversation sparked my interest, and the rest is history.

The most rewarding part of being a CFR is knowing I’ve helped someone in a critical moment. Sometimes, it’s lifesaving care; other times, it’s simply reassuring a family in distress.

People often don’t realise the level of training we receive or that we’re completely voluntary. For me, becoming a CFR has been an incredible experience I’ve gained valuable skills and made great friends along the way.

Continued on next page

Tamsin, Darren and Sam

CFRs - Continued from Previous page

Sally

As a self-employed Fitness Instructor and First Aid Trainer, I first heard about CFRs through a fellow trainer who found the role rewarding and beneficial for real-world first aid experience.

I applied as soon as I could, and it has enhanced my work ever since.

Every time I ‘book on,’ I know I’m making a difference. Patients and families are often anxious, and simply being there to provide support while waiting for the crew is invaluable. Their gratitude makes it all worthwhile.

Many people don’t know CFRs exist or that we respond from home, which means we can often arrive very quickly. We carry a defibrillator, so we’re ready for even the most serious emergencies.

This role has given me a deeper understanding of emergency care and the ambulance service, as well as the chance to help my community in a meaningful way. I love being a CFR and wish I’d discovered it sooner!

Tamsin

With over 25 years as a critical care nurse, I know

how vital early intervention is, especially in cardiac arrests where every minute counts. CFRs often arrive ahead of an ambulance, providing immediate care with a defibrillator. That ability to help my local community in such a critical way drew me to the role.

Many don’t realise we wear red, not green! Or that we’re on call from home, responding in our own time. Having a medical background isn’t essentialif you can commit at least 20 hours a month, you can make a real difference too.

Since joining, I’ve gained a stronger connection with my community and a real sense of achievement in using my training to help those in need.

Could You Be a CFR?

CFRs play a crucial role in saving lives and supporting patients in distress. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, visit www.egfirstresponders.co.uk

Local artist Stefania Priori has an exhibition coming up in nearby Crowborough:

Sally

East Grinstead Jazz Club & Festival –A Celebration of Community and Music

For several years, the East Grinstead Jazz Club has been lighting up the Apron Café at the Chequermead Theatre every first Tuesday of the month. Its ongoing success is largely thanks to the passion and expertise of its curator, Jenny Green. An established jazz singer with two successful albums under her belt and with performance credits at renowned venues such as Ronnie Scotts and Pizza Express Soho Jenny brings her deep knowledge of jazz to every show.

After hosting her own jazz radio programme on Meridian FM, Jenny naturally transitioned into running a jazz club in town. Originally held upstairs at the Dorset Arms around 2015, the club found a new home at the Chequermead Theatre when COVID restrictions required a change. Starting with a modest audience of around 10, the club now regularly welcomes nearly 90 devoted jazz fans and consistently sells out each month.

Each evening kicks off at 7:30 pm with a set from Jenny herself, setting the mood for the night. At 8:00 pm, she introduces that month’s guest ranging from saxophonists and trumpeters to fellow jazz vocalists backed by a talented house band. The line-up spans the full spectrum of jazz, from swinging and Latin grooves to big band and traditional styles, ensuring that even those who think they’re not “jazz people” will be pleasantly surprised. A 30-minute break allows the audience to mingle, fostering a warm, community atmosphere where friendships are easily made.

Building on the club’s success, Jenny curated East Grinstead’s very first Jazz Festival last year with the invaluable support of David Kent and charity partner Being Neighbourly

The festival was such a triumph that plans are already underway for this year’s event - from August 15th to 17th.

The festival will feature:

Friday Night: A special performance at St Swithun’s Church to kick off the festivities.

Saturday: A vibrant jazz trail along the High Street with a Dixie band, interactive jazz workshops at the Jubilee Centre , and a series of live performances in

local pubs and cafes, culminating in a headline act at The Crown.

Sunday Morning & Afternoon: For the first time, enjoy a jazz breakfast at the Dorset Arms, followed by an afternoon of live music and lunch on the lawns of the Chequer Mead Theatre.

Jenny is incredibly grateful to the town for coming together to fill the streets with music and to support local businesses. To ensure that the Jazz Festival continues to flourish, we are seeking sponsors. As a sponsor, your business will be featured in our festival program, highlighted on our social media channels and mentioned on the radio.

If you’d like to be part of this vibrant celebration of music and community, please get in touch by emailing jennygreen1@sky.com

Please get in touch with Jenny if you would like to book her for an event.

Join us in keeping the spirit of jazz alive in East Grinstead!

JENNY

FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM WEBSITE

Learning a Language – is it hard?

A lot of people want to learn a new language, but most find it hard to do.

First of all, if you want to learn a language, ask yourself which one; secondly why you want to do it.

Is it to get by while on holidays? To watch foreign language films? Because you have friends who speak that language? Because you are buying a house abroad? Or simply for fun?

All those reasons are valid, but it is important to work it out so that you can then choose how to go about learning it.

There are many ways to go about it: take lessons with a tutor, buy a language course, or follow one of the many free ones available online; go to evening classes. Or even start a club with like- minded people.

But is learning a language hard? It can be; it depends on the language; and it depends how far you want to take it. But mostly it is not.

Whatever language you choose to learn, to make it easier and keep it fun, here are some tips based on my personal experience:

• If today you don’t feel like stretching your brain learning, leave it to another day.

• Listen to foreign music and if you can, foreign radio;

• Read children’s books in that language;

• Get yourself a foreign language recipe book and start cooking!

• Watch subtitled foreign movies;

• If you know someone who speaks that language, see if you can meet them for coffee and a chat;

• Every time you come across someone who speaks that language, use what you’ve learned with them; don’t be shy, they’ll be happy to hear their own language;

• As you advance in your learning, read books, do simple crosswords in that language;

• Don’t worry if you don’t get it right, or if you find it hard at times, that’s normal! Pat yourself on the back when you do get things right instead.

• Never worry about your accent. We all have one.

• And of course, go on holiday to practise your new skill!

And don’t forget: learning a language is also learning a culture. So watch documentaries about the country or countries where that language is spoken.

I hope you have fun in your language-learning adventure!

À bientôt!

Dominique Cook

French translator and interpreter

Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists

Dip.Trans. CIOL

Commended and Recommended

This month we commend and recommend Seasons, Forest Row.

They have a stellar range of healthy, organic, environmentally friendly products, a busy but efficiently run shop with friendly and helpful staff.

If you care about your health, your family's health and the wellbeing of your environment, this shop is very, very highly recommended.

Well done, Seasons!

Keep up the good work!

Maths in Nature: Finding Numbers in the World

As we find ourselves half way through February already, we can see the daffodils and crocuses beginning to pop their heads out of the ground – spring is on the way! This inspired me for this month’s maths article. Maths isn’t just about numbers on a page it’s all around us, especially in nature! From the spirals in a sunflower to the symmetry of a butterfly, the natural world is full of fascinating mathematical patterns waiting to be discovered.

One of the most famous maths patterns in nature is the Fibonacci sequence a series of numbers where each one is the sum of the two before it (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, and so on). If you look closely, you’ll see this pattern in the arrangement of petals on flowers, pinecones, and even the spiral shells of snails!

Symmetry is another mathematical wonder found in nature. Many leaves, flowers, and animals have symmetrical shapes, meaning one side is a mirror image of the other. Snowflakes, for example, always have six symmetrical sides, each uniquely designed by nature.

Even animal spots and stripes follow mathematical rules! The patterns on a zebra or a leopard form because of a process called Turing patterns, named after mathematician Alan Turing. Scientists believe these patterns help animals blend into their environments.

Encouraging children to find maths in nature makes learning exciting and interactive. Next time you’re outside, look for patterns in leaves, count the petals on a flower, or spot spirals in a pinecone. You might be surprised how much maths is hidden in the world around you!

InteractiveActivities for Families

Now that half term is almost upon us, why not enjoy an activity from the list below:

Fibonacci Hunt – Go for a walk and find examples of the Fibonacci sequence in flowers, pinecones, or shells. Count the spirals or petals and see if they match the sequence!

Snowflake Symmetry Challenge – Cut out paper snowflakes and examine their symmetrical patterns. Can you fold them perfectly in half? Try designing your own six-sided snowflake!

Nature Pattern Bingo – Create a bingo card with items like ‘spiral,’ ‘symmetry,’ ‘three-petalled flower,’ and ‘striped insect.’ Go on a nature walk and mark off what you find!

Maths tutor, Helen Chisholm, has very kindly agreed to contribute a monthly column giving valuable tips on how to excel, or help your children excel at maths.

CONTACT HELEN AT makingitcountmathstuition@gmail.com

The Joys of Walking

We are a group of like-minded individuals who appreciate the joys and benefits of walking.

We have an interesting and varied program, ranging from short ‘ambles’ (up to 3 miles) through leisurely walks (up to 6 miles) to linear walks, which can be up to 12 miles (with breaks for lunch).

There is usually a walk on most days of the week.

We think that there will be a walk suitable for you!

Why not contact our Walks Co-ordinator on walks@eastsurreywalkers.org.uk if you are interested.

Or you could check out our website. The address is www.eastsurreywalkers.org.uk

We look forward to welcoming you!

Here’s another really wild idea

I’ve been to the Globe theatre a few times to watch Shakespeare plays in an authentic replica of the original Globe Theatre in London where his plays were performed. It was a lovely experience and great to capture the atmosphere and ambience of those golden olden times.

The original idea of building a replica of the Globe was clearly a brilliant one that inspired many others: within the past twenty-five years, at least eleven replicas of Shakespeare's Globe have been built in locations around the world from London and Rome to Japan, Germany, the USA (two). Argentina, New Zealand and the Netherlands.

So here’s my wild idea: suppose we built one in our town?

Our historic High Street boasts buildings that were already about 200 years old when the original Globe was opened in 1599, seventeen years before Shakespeare’s death. So its history, coupled with the presence of an authentic Globe replica putting on Shakespeare plays by, say, a local theatre group should provide some magic to attract hordes of visitors and boom the local economy.

Okay so it’s wild but as they say, “Who dares, wins!”

Write in and share your opinion - or your very own wild idea. (egtowncrier@gmail.com)

Farewell for now!

We hope you enjoyed this issue of the Town Crier.

The March 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.