Horam & Vines Cross Village Diary by hvcvillagediary

Horam and Vines

March 2025

Afternoon Tea Knitting

After School Classes for Children

Singing Baking

Art Classes for Children & Adults

Watercolour Painting

Crafting & Creating

Watercolour, Gouache & Acrylics for Adults

Dancing Games Fun with the Children

Half Term Workshops

Group Bookings

Private Tuition

Community Bingo & Tea Dancing Union Church Heathﬁeld Every other Thursday from 2pm

setting of Cricket Club, Pavilion, Old Heathﬁeld, East 10-3.30pm Thursday & Friday

Old Heathﬁeld, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-3.30pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathﬁeld Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathﬁeld, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-4pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

Studio@Vines Cross TN21 9EN

If you would love to come along or know someone that would call Rachel on 07971 032667

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 07971 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us

www.youngatheart.me.uk

We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267)

Independent financial advice you can trust

We hope to see you! Help us preserve our environment and dent our throw-away culture. Everyone is welcome - Yummy home-baked cakes & refreshments while you wait! On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - cyclesminor mechanical problems - furniture - small sewing repairs Horam and Heathﬁeld

Next Session 9th December 2023 - 9.30-12 noon

Next Session 11th May 2024 - 9.30am -11 am

Next 11th - 9.30-12 noon

Next Session 11th November 2023 - 9.30-12 noon

FREE Initial Meeting

• Pensions Reviews

Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs

Tel: 01435 869010

www.sandycrosswealth.co.uk

info@sandycrosswealth.co.uk

• Retirement Planning

Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments

• Investment Advice

Monkhurst House, Sandy Cross Lane.

Email repaircafeheathﬁeldandhoram@outlook.com https://sites.google.com/view/heathﬁeldrepaircafe/home?pli=1

Trailer Hire Covering Sussex, Kent & Surrey

Call Steve Riddle on 0845 108 6447 or 07936 435193 or email steve@smalltrailers4u.co.uk

FULLY INSURED FULLY INSURED

HART

Motor Services

Offering a friendly service with over 20 years experience. Car & trailer servicing, repairs & M.O.T’s.

TRAILER HIRE AVAILABLE. Car trailers, box trailers & horse boxes.

• Collection & delivery service.

FREE within a 5 mile radius from garage.

• Courtesy car available if required.

• Mini service.

• Full service.

• Diagnostics

• Holiday check from £20.

• Winter check from £20.

• Clutches, exhausts & brakes.

Follow the road out of Horam High Street to Maynards Green, turn left at the oast house Unit 18, Bridge Farm, Horam, East Sussex, TN21 0BP

WINDOW CLEANING

◊ Monthly & bi-monthly cleaning.

◊ One-off window cleans.

◊ Solar panel cleaning.

◊ Residential window cleaning.

◊ Commercial window cleaning.

◊ Facia, soffits & conservatory roof cleaning.

◊ Pure water window cleaning up to 60ft.

For a free no obligation quotation call or email us today!

Telephone Jason 01435 408048 ~ 07739 039944

Email: ascleaning@live.co.uk www.aswindowcleaning.co.uk

• Back and Neck Pain • Arthritic Pain

Jane Richmond - B.A., B.Sc (Hons) Ost

• Sporting Injuries • Tension Headaches

• Shoulder Pain

• Sciatic Pain

Horam Healthcare Clinic

Safe and effective treatment for adults and children including:

• Pregnancy related Discomfort

• Back and Neck Pain • Arthritic Pain

• Sporting Injuries • Tension Headaches

• Shoulder Pain • Sciatic Pain

Jane Richmond - B.A., B.Sc (Hons) Ost

• Pregnancy related Discomfort

Safe and effective for adults and children including:

l Back and Neck Pain

l Arthritic Pain

l Sporting Injuries

20 Years clinical experience, using a wide range of osteopathic techniques and acupuncture, tailored for each individual patient.

l Tension Headaches

l Shoulder Pain

l Sciatic Pain

l Pregnancy Related Discomfort 07957 572929

Safe and effective treatment for adults and children including:

• Back and Neck Pain • Arthritic Pain

20 Years clinical experience, using a wide range of osteopathic techniques and acupuncture, tailored for each individual patient.

• Sporting Injuries • Tension Headaches

• Shoulder Pain • Sciatic Pain

Easy access and on-site parking in the centre of Burgess Hill.

• Pregnancy related Discomfort

Horam Healthcare Clinic, Horam High Street, Horam, Heathfield TN21 0EL janerichmond123@btinternet.com

Easy access and on-site parking in the centre of Burgess Hill. Email: janerichmond123@btinternet.com

20 years clinical experience using a wide range of osteopath techniques, tailored for each individual patient Email: janerichmond123@btinternet.com Phone: 07957 572929

20 Years clinical experience,

PODIATRIST & CHIROPODIST

Over 13 years NHS experience Mara Ragaiolo BSc (Hons) Podiatry

HCPC registered and a member of the College of Podiatry

Now at Horam Healthcare Clinic, High Street, Horam TN21 0EL

All aspects of Podiatry and Chiropody including: Nail Cutting, Ingrowing Toenails, Corns and Callus, Verrucae Therapies, Foot Pain, & Diabetic Footcare and Assessment.

Payment by Cash, Cheque or Bank Transfer.

To book an appointment with Mara at Horam Healthcare Clinic

Tel: Pauline on 01435 866227 where you can also leave a message at anytime.

Home Visiting Service also available.

To book a Home Visit with Mara call 07703156799 or email tmfootcare@mail.com

HELP AT HAND COUNSELLING THERAPY

I’m a qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist and my vocation these past 29 years has been to assist clients to assess needs, identify strengths, agree healthy goals and achieve positive outcomes that are relevant and sustainable. If you are ready to commit to your goals and the process, there is no doubt, that I can help you.

Please see my website for more information or text to arrange a free half an hour consultation to discuss further.

Call today: 07421 500 081 Email: helpathandtherapy@gmail.com Visit: www.helpathandtherapy.com

MARIA SMITH SPORTS & REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPY

How can sports massage help you? -relieves tension -eases sore/tight muscles -improves circulation -improves joint mobility -enhances wellbeing -increase flexibility & range of motion

Fully air conditioned studio in Horam or mobile service available. Appointments: 1 hour = £40 45 minutes = £35

Each massage caters for your needs – relax and unwind!

Tel: 07786 220179 Email: mariasmassage21@gmail.com Website: mariasmassage.co.uk

These are some of the treatments we offer :-

 Kinesiology

 Hypnotherapy & NLP

 Massage

 Reflexology

 Beauty treatments using 100% natural products

Therapies and treatments available in a quiet and relaxed setting in Horam

 Biofeedback therapy using the amazing QUEX ED device

 Weightloss Help

Give us a call to book something you fancy … all our therapists also offer vouchers which make great gifts

Tel Daynna - 07770 820673

Email – Daynna@the-crystal-rooms.co.uk www.the-crystal-rooms.co.uk

Victoria Slinn

Hello Horam

Welcome to our second property market update of 2025! The beginning of the year has kicked off with plenty of activity in the Wealden property market, with 710 homes currently up for sale. Among them, 134 are brand-new listings, showing that sellers are keen to start the year on a strong note We've also seen 101 price adjustments, reflecting shifting market trends, and 39 properties have been withdrawn from the market (Data as of 31st January 2025)

With the stamp duty increase deadline fast approaching, we’re expecting a surge of interest in lower-value properties as buyers look to save on tax But with only 13% of transactions completing within two months, some buyers might find themselves racing against the clock. If you’re in the market to buy or sell, it’s worth considering how pricing and timing could impact your plans.

On a positive note, more buyers are reaching out to estate agents up 9% compared to last year! Plus, the number of agreed sales has risen by 11%, showing that confidence in the market remains strong

As we move further into 2025, we’ll be keeping a close eye on market trends and sharing updates to help you stay informed If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to reach out!

Scan this QR code to receive your personal property report and price quide

BUYING SELLING RENTING

Ray Wicker - for all your Double glazing and Carpentry needs!

Double glazing:

• Replacement of windows and doors in UPVC, aluminium and timber.

• Service & repairs to your existing double glazed windows eg replace old misted glass units, replace broken handles, hinges and locks, re-trim and seal old windows.

• Install UPVC fascia, soffit and guttering - full replacment or cap over.

• Install new or replace shiplap cladding in UPVC or timber.

Carpentry:

• Hang doors, fit door liners, architrave, locks, handles skirting etc.

• Custom built in wardrobes/shelves, build flat pack furniture etc.

• Stud walls, insulation board, plasterboard.

• Build garden sheds, summer houses, garden decking etc.

• Fit curtain poles and blinds.

• Replace kitchen/bathroom silicone.

• Install new kitchen carcases, doors etc.

All jobs considered big or small.

Please call Ray Wicker on 07960 503844

NEWS FROM CORNELIE USBORNE

No local elections on 1st of May

As I mentioned last month, both Sussex County councils and Brighton & Hove Borough Council voted to postpone the County elections on 1 May this year. The government has now accepted this. At the moment, elections for the new unitary East & West Sussex authorities and the new mayor are planned for May 2026, although none will be fully functioning for another year or two after that.

This is because major legislation is first required and the House of Lords need to agree to it, if indeed they will. This could lead to considerable delays and further postponement of elections. Local democracy will likely be severely, and unnecessarily, disrupted in the next few years.

All leaders of East Sussex Local Authorities objected and expressed their deep disappointment at the cancellation of the elections. They made clear that they do not oppose devolution but that this must be done with the consent of residents, businesses and partners. They will, they stressed, work hard to put the best interests of residents ahead of everything as always.

National Planning Policy Framework Changes

Our centrally imposed housing target has gone up by 211 units a year, or 3165 over the period of the proposed Local Plan, though it remains unclear how this can be achieved. Landowners cannot be forced to sell, nor can new land be created out of thin air!

It seems the new government, like the last one, believes in the myth that more permissions would lead to more homes built, quicker sales and lower house prices. The past 40 years prove this to be wrong, no matter how often ill-informed journalists repeat it. The main result of higher targets is a larger gap between the number required and the number in the Plan.

The government wants more social rented housing (which Wealden needs) and this is welcome, but doubt remains how this will work in practice since the developers’ guaranteed 20% profit margin remains sacrosanct and has proven a major excuse for not fulfilling their legal duty since the system was introduced in 2012.

Cornelie Usborne, Alliance for Wealden, Green Party Councillor, Horam & Punnetts Town. Cllr. cornelie.usborne@wealden.gov.uk. 07979336401.

Chimney Sweep

Sadly, due to Victorian health & safety regulations, only children of under 14” shoulder measurement may be employed.

A Clean Sweep - your local chimney sweep

Make sure your fireplace is safe with a professional sweep.

• All types of residential chimneys swept.

• Wood & multi-fuel stoves cleaned and serviced.

• Inspection & preparation of all chimneys for stove installation.

• Bird guards & cowls fitted.

• RSPB nominated bird removal man for East Sussex.

• Smoke test & certification for every sweep.

• Member of Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS).

• Now certified woodburner installer.

Ross Atabey on 01435 812153/07941 315214

Email: acleansweep009@gmail.com

acleansweephoram

Come

FURNISHERS LTD

Upholstered furniture, dining furniture, beds & bedroom furniture

At Thorndale we have gifts such as plants, pictures, mirrors, ornamental items, lamps, clocks & of course loads of dining & bedroom furniture, beds & three-piece suites

www.askeggsroof.com

01435 810022 / 07900 885888

ROYS PLUMBING SERVICES

Full bathroom installation service Taps, Water Tanks, Cylinders, Radiators Drains, Gutters, Emergency Call Out All types of plumbing undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Roy Varley 01435 866312/07920 144067 Local, Friendly, Fully Reliable professional service, NO CALL OUT CHARGE, Free estimates, All Work Full Guaranteed, NO HIDDEN COSTS.

Memory Moments Café HORAM

PRESSURE WASHING SERVICE

Driveway & patio cleaning. Solar panel cleaning.

Contact : 07872 170586 Email: pete@pmfservices.co.uk Find

RIVER MEAD NURSERY

Foords Lane, Vines Cross, Horam, East Sussex TN21 9HB

Telephone No. 01435 813353 Email – info@rivermeadnursery.co.uk Website - www.rivermeadnursery.co.uk

We have a wide selection of plants:Bedding Plants, Herbs, Vegetable Plants, Perennials, Shrubs, Fruit Bushes, Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees, Grasses, Cacti, Agaves. Also available –Home grown produce (seasonal vegetables, herbs, fruit, cut flowers and eggs).

Opening Times: Winter 9am-dusk Monday - Saturday

HORAM PARISH NEWS

Exciting news – a date for the first Skate Jam of 2025 will be announced shortly so please watch this space!!

The new parish council website is up and running. Please take a look and sign up to our Newsletter at the bottom of the Home Page which provides you with instant email notifications if any news is added to the website. Also, by clicking on “Report an issue” on the Home Page there are direct links to Highways for reporting potholes etc, Operation Crackdown for driving and parking issues, Sussex Police to report a crime and Wealden District Council for reporting missed bin collections including dog bins and much more.

Please save the date for the Annual Parish Assembly which will be held in the Horam Village Hall on Thursday 27th March from 6.45pm. Everyone is welcome and light refreshments will be available. There will be guest speakers including a representative from the A267 Road Safety Group and the Horam Community Garden. The Community Garden has recently been awarded a parish council grant and is open to everyone and provides all members of the parish with a chance to get creative and meet new people. If you need any further information please contact Brian Arnott brarnott@ gmail.com. There will also be a chance to meet your councillors as well as a chance to voice any concerns you may have living in your parish.

Work is beginning on a review of the East Sussex County Council’s Rights of Way Access Plan. East Sussex County Council wants your views before drafting the new Rights of Way Access Plan so that it reflects local priorities and what you think is important www.eastsussex.gov.uk/rightsofwaysurvey. Please take the time to complete the online survey which closes on 14th March 2025.

Please report any overgrown hedges on the highway and road signs blocked by foliage to East Sussex Highways who will contact the landowner.

All the meetings of the council are public meetings. Please come along and have your say. There is a public participation part at the beginning of each meeting where members of the public are invited to speak on any of the agenda items. The agenda for any council meeting is always published at least 3 days before the meeting and is available on the council website https://horam.com/ and the parish council notice boards. These are located at the Horam Centre and in the Memorial Garden. The council are now adding all the agenda documentation onto the website for public information. If you have any accessibility issues regarding physically attending a council

HORAM PARISH NEWS

meeting, please contact the Clerk directly who will arrange access to the meeting via zoom. The new stair climber is now available too for meetings and general visits to the office.

The Parish Council wish to clarify that they are a non-party political corporate body.

The parish council are continuing to liaise with the police regarding a new PCSO for the parish. There should be good news in the next couple of months.

Please report any crimes or anti-social behaviour to the police through 101. They cannot investigate an incident unless there is a crime report.

The parish council office hours:

Tuesday: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Wednesday: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Thursday: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Friday: 10.00am – 1.00pm

You can contact the Parish Council by email, post or telephone.

Parish Clerk: clerk@horamparishcouncil@gov.uk 01435 812151

The Clerk

Horam Parish Council

The Horam Centre High Street, Horam

NEWS

This month marks International Women’s Day, a moment to celebrate the inspirational women in our lives and reflect on the contributions they make to our communities and to our country.

I’m always impressed by the women I meet and work with in the constituency and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank just some of them. Our incredible community champions and charity leaders including the team at MAYFACS, Rotherfield St Martin and Wealden Works in Heathfield; our very own 2024 Olympic Gold Medallist Emily Craig from Mark Cross; our business owners and leaders; our healthcare leaders and nurses; and our fantastic female teachers and headteachers including at Academies in Crowborough and Wadhurst and Community Colleges in Heathfield and Hailsham, for bringing up and empowering our future generations.

I’m grateful to the women and men in Wealden for electing me as their first female MP in 2015 and I’m pleased to now be representing Sussex Weald as its first MP. When I was growing up, it was inconceivable someone like me could be active in politics. My journey has not been easy, but it’s been exciting to see changes and opportunities for women opening up within my own lifetime. I am proud to have made history as the first female Muslim Minister to speak at the Commons dispatch box and to be the first woman of colour to be elected Chairman of Ways and Means, Madam Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons.

I hope that this will inspire local girls from working class backgrounds like me to consider jobs they believed were out of reach for them. Despite the difficulties that life in public service brings, I believe we must have the courage to own our space, be heard, and speak truth to power. We still have work to do to ensure that women and girls have the opportunity, safety and security to excel in all areas of life. We should continue to lift each other up and cheerlead the fantastic strides women are making in their lives to make a difference.

Investing in women is more crucial than ever for a thriving future for us all and I remain committed to encouraging women and girls in Sussex Weald to take up leadership positions.

Horam WI

We meet on the First Tuesday of every month 2pm - 4pm at West End, Christ Church, Horebeech Lane, TN21 0DT

Come and join us at this month’s meeting for a talk on

THE RAYSTEDE CENTRE FOR ANIMAL WELFARE

(Including their history, what they do and the community services they provide)

Ladies, you are very welcome to visit us to find out more about us

All meetings included a cuppa and a chat

‘Please recycle empty vitamin and medicine blister packs at Boots the Chemist’

Christ Church Fellowship

We invite you to come and join us on Tuesday 25th March at 2.pm.

We will be celebrating Easter With a short service led by Vicar PJ

The meeting will be followed by afternoon tea

We meet at Christ Church Horebeech Lane Horam TN21 0DT

ALL WELCOME

CROSSWAYS COFFEE MORNING

Wednesday 5th March 10am - 12 noon at Christchurch, Horebeech Lane, Horam.

EVERYONE WILL BE MADE WECOME INCLUDING CHILDREN.

Meet with friends, make new friends and enjoy good coffee/tea and homemade cake. We meet the first Wednesday of every month, everybody is welcome.

CHERRY TREE COURT Welcomes you all

A warm welcome awaits you. Every Monday we hold a bingo & raffle evening join us from 6pm for a 6.30pm start Every Friday we gather for a coffee morning from 10.30am We look forward to seeing you! Find us opposite Horam Chapel

CROSSWAYS COFFEE MORNING

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN HEATHFIELD & DISTRICT COFFEE

Wednesday 1st November 10am-12noon at Christchurch, Horebeech Lane, Horam.

EVERYONE WILL BE MADE WELCOME INCLUDING CHILDREN.

MORNING

Meet with friends, make new friends and enjoy good coffee/tea and homemade cake. We meet the first Wednesday of every month, everybody is welcome. We shall look forward to seeing you all.

Saturday March 15th 10.00am to 12.00pm In Union Church Hall, Heathfield

Supporting the work of Churches Together in our community and in our schools

Coffee, cake, raffle and other stalls

Everyone is welcome!

v RESIDENTIAL CARE v DAYCARE v RESPITE CARE

‘Our aim is to provide each resident with a caring and secure environment and the means to live life to the full extent, with privacy, independence and dignity’.

En suite and garden view rooms available

For enquiries call us on 01435 812170

Vines Cross Road, Horam TN21 0HF

What’s On This March

Crowborough Pop Up Market, Crowborough community centre, Saturday 1st, 10am -2pm. Come in from the cold and enjoy browsing and buying from hand picked local, small businesses.

Gun Brewery, Gun Hill, Heathfield, Sunday 2nd, 12pm – 3pm. Come join us for our monthly market, with a wide range of art, crafts and food stalls.

Manor Barn Wedding Showcase, The Manor Barn, De La Warr Road, Bexhill, Sunday 2nd, 10am -2pm. From beauty to photographers and entertainment to music with everything in between to make your wedding extra special.

Heathfield Farmers’ Market, Saturday 15th, 9am – 12:30pm, Co-op car park with FREE parking. There is always a good number of stalls selling a wide selection of locally produced food, plants and crafts.www.heathfield.net/farmers-market

Heathfield Tavern, Princess and the Pea, Band Night, Friday 28th, Over 18s only 9pm.

Children’s Market, Crowborough community centre, Saturday 29th, 10:30am – 2:30pm, Explore a host of local businesses who have a real focus on both education and fun for children.

Heathfield WI

Next Meeting Tuesday 11th March 10 -12

Main Hall, Union Church Station Road Heathfield TN21 8LB

A Brief History of Heathfield

We meet 2nd Tuesday of the month

Just come along and meet sociable ladies

Do some activities, go on outings

Listen to some great speakers

Enjoy tea/coffee and a chat

If you would like to find out more email us at heathfieldmorningwi@gmail.com or speak to Devina on 07488 279722

Visitors welcome for taster session

?? QUIZ NIGHT??

JOIN US ON SATURDAY 26TH APRIL

6:30PM FOR 7PM START

HORAM CHAPEL, HIGH STREET, HORAM

TEAMS OF UP TO 6 PEOPLE

£8 PER PERSON

JACKET POTATOES & CHILLI PROVIDED (Vegetarian option available – please request when booking)

BRING YOUR OWN SNACKS/DRINKS (HOT DRINKS WILL BE AVAILABLE)

TO BOOK A TABLE EMAIL: RACHEL rachel.cott@gmx.co.uk

ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO:

International Women’s Day 8th March ~ The Power of Collaboration,

Voice & Empowerment

For generations, women have risen — fighting for their rights, their voices, and their place in the world. From the suffragettes of the early 20th century to the trailblazers of today, the journey of women’s empowerment has been a tapestry of resilience, collaboration, and transformation.

At nook and nourish, we embrace this journey, creating a space where women can reconnect with their bodies, reclaim their voices, and step into their power. Healing is not just personal—it’s collective. When women come together, something magical happens: we lift each other, amplify each other, and rewrite old narratives.

The Changing Role of Women & Its Impact on Health

Over the past few decades, the role of women has shifted dramatically. Women today are balancing careers, businesses, families, and personal aspirations—often carrying unseen emotional and physical loads.

While these changes have opened doors, they have also come with costs. More women than ever are experiencing burnout, stress-related illnesses, hormonal imbalances, and chronic fatigue. We’ve spent decades proving our strength, often at the expense of our well-being. Now, the conversation is shifting: true empowerment includes rest, self-care, and nervous system regulation.

At nook and nourish, we recognise the profound connection between empowerment and health. Our approach isn’t just about movement; it’s about nervous system resilience, breathwork, and creating sustainable ways to thrive—not just survive.

The Ripple Effect: How Women’s Well-Being Impacts Men & Families

When women’s roles change, it inevitably impacts men as well. The shifting landscape of gender roles has left many men uncertain about their place in the world. Traditional ideas of masculinity—where men were expected to be the sole providers and emotional ‘rocks’—are being rewritten.

Just as women have been unlearning outdated societal expectations, men are beginning to do the same. We are seeing higher rates of male depression, anxiety, and isolation, often because emotional expression wasn’t part of their upbringing. As women reclaim their power, there’s an opportunity for men to embrace a new kind of strength — one rooted in emotional awareness, connection, and shared responsibility

Empowerment isn’t about one gender rising at the expense of another. It’s about balance. When women feel supported, heard, and healthy, it benefits entire communities. When men are encouraged to heal, be vulnerable, and redefine their role without shame, they thrive too.

The Strength of Collaboration

One of the most profound lessons from history is that we rise when we rise together. From the women who organised for equal pay in the ‘60s to the sisterhood of today’s female-led businesses, collaboration has always been at the heart of change. But it’s not just about women supporting women — it’s about bringing men into the conversation too.

At nook and nourish, we welcome partnerships, conversations, and shared visions. Whether you’re a healer, a business owner, a creative, or simply someone seeking connection, we invite you to be part of our community.

Looking Forward: The Next Chapter of Women’s (and Men’s) Empowerment

The last few decades have seen enormous shifts for women, but our work isn’t done. True empowerment means creating spaces where women can express, heal, and lead without fear or limitation—and where men can step into their own transformation without stigma.

This International Women’s Day, let’s honour those who came before us by lifting each other up today. Let’s commit to empowerment, collaboration, and transformation—together.

If you’d like to be part of this journey, connect with us at Nook and Nourish. Whether through classes, conversations, or collaborations, let’s continue shaping a world where women and men thrive — not just exist.

Because when one of us rises, we all do. With love Michelle xxx

Michelle Samuel has used her own transformational journey to inspire, lift and empower others. Michelle is an accredited emotional Wellbeing coach and therapist . Her vision to create a community space opens in Heathfield in March. The mental health hub ; Nook and nourish takes mental health outside the box. Michelle can be contacted at: www.michellejsamuel.com

GARDENING DIARY

" As many mists as ye have in March, so many frosts in May "

March is one of the busier months of the year in the garden and it is a good thing to be kept busy during the long gloom of Lent.

The planting of deciduous trees, shrubs, fruits and roses should be completed as soon as possible to give them a chance to get a grip of the soil before drought may punish them. In a warm sheltered border we may be planting evergreens such as Laurels, conifers, hollies, azaleas and rhododendrons. Most herbaceous perennials can also be planted now.

Rose pruning should be carried on and finished by the Ides, subject to the weather; better not to prune during a period of heavy frost. Hybrid tea roses may be pruned back to five or so buds with all sickly and dead wood cut away. Climbing roses should have their side branches cut back to two buds. It is worth feeding the roses with a dedicated rose fertiliser now as the leaves are making their first appearance and spraying with a fungicide from now until June should keep the leaves looking clean all season.

Unlike most bulbous-rooted plants, snowdrops will benefit from being lifted and divided every few years as the clumps can become over- crowded, leading to a mass of blind shoots.

In the vegetable garden we should be aiming first at the creation of the all-important fine tilth. As always, the weather is master/mistress. The soil should be visibly drying; better to wait until the end of the month or beyond before sowing a seed if there is any hint of stickiness. The reader will have dug over the plot thoroughly last autumn, digging in barrowfuls of ungulate droppings, compost, shoddy and celebrity magazines. The floods and gales of winter will have weathered the diggings down to an uneven crumbly surface. Patient raking eventually renders our seed bed smooth and fine, air pockets being trodden out as we go. We might allow ourselves five minutes leaning on the rake indulging in a short pipe and a gloat over our seed bed, well prepared and superior to next door's. Only now may we sow. The first sowings may be of peas, leeks, parsnips (always use new seed), broad beans, parsley, spinach and radishes, onion and shallot sets may be planted nearer the end of the month, a trowel is better than a dibber for these as any compaction encourages them to wriggle free of the ground. Garlic may still be planted but no time should be lost. New beds of Thyme, Tarragon, Mint and other herbs may be planted out towards the middle of Lent.

Early potatoes to go in around St.Patrick's Day, six inches down, these early plantings will run some risk from frost but it is good to see the neat rows of tight foliage as soon as possible and any frost-blackened shoots will soon be replaced. The older gardening books advised to carry around a bale of straw at all times during March and early April to spread over tender shoots in the case of a late frost.

For those who commune with the moon and garden by her phases and the bio-

GARDENING DIARY

dynamic system of lunar planting, root crops to be planted or sown during the waning gibbous, from the 7th to the 21st.

The rows for runner beans may be prepared now, this should involve digging in barrowfuls of compost or horsey stuff a foot and a half down and allowed to settle down over the next six to eight weeks before sowing.

After such exercises in self-sufficiency we may repair to the shed to indulge yet another self-satisfied long pipe and a leisurely rumination over the coming vernal equinox when all the denizens of the planet go about their business under a day and night of equal length across the globe.

Introduction to Kitchen Gardening Workshops led by Jenny Huggett

Sat. 19th April, Sun. 11th May & Sat 7th June all at 2-4pm in Jenny's garden £35 including refreshments and a plant to take home

Some of what we cover: what to grow , how to grow it, the benefits of no dig, avoiding, pests without chemicals, composting, seed saving

For more information and to book: email Jenny : jmhuggett@icloud.com

Trudi - Mothering Mojo

The Curse of the 7 PM Bedtime: Why It Doesn’t Work for Many Babies

For decades, parents have been advised that an early bedtime — often around 7 PM — is the key to a well-rested baby. Parenting books, sleep training programs, and even pediatricians frequently emphasize the importance of an early sleep schedule. However, many families find that enforcing a 7 PM bedtime is more of a battle than a blessing, and research suggests that this widely accepted routine may not actually align with children's biological sleep needs.

The Problem with the 7 PM Bedtime

One of the biggest issues with a rigid 7 PM bedtime is that it assumes all children have the same circadian rhythms. However, just like adults, children have different natural sleep-wake cycles. Some little ones are naturally early risers, while others are biologically wired to fall asleep later. Forcing a child to go to bed too early can lead to bedtime resistance, prolonged struggles, and frequent night wakings rather than a restful night of sleep.

Another factor to consider is the impact of daytime naps. Younger children, especially babies and toddlers, still need naps, and if those naps are too long or end too late in the day, they simply won’t be tired enough to fall asleep at 7 PM. Instead of winding down, they may resist bedtime or wake up too early in the morning, leading to a frustrating sleep pattern for both parents and child.

Understanding Biological Sleep Needs

Children’s sleep needs shift as they grow. Infants and toddlers require more total sleep, but as they get older, their sleep pressure — the body’s need for sleep — builds up differently. Many preschoolers and school-aged children have a natural sleep window that falls closer to 8 or 9 PM. Trying to enforce a 7 PM bedtime can disrupt their natural rhythm, making it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Moreover, a too-early bedtime can sometimes result in more night wakings. If a child goes to bed before they are truly tired, they might go to sleep fine (we, in the trade, call this Sleep Onset Latency’) but then may experience fragmented sleep, leading to increased night wakings and early morning risings, which can be counterproductive to the goal of getting a full night’s rest.

Finding a Sleep Routine That Works

Instead of adhering to a one-size-fits-all bedtime, parents can focus on recognising their child’s natural sleep cues, working out how much sleep they are offering them

overall and then adjusting gradually to help align the entire family’s needs. Adjusting bedtime based on these signals rather than an arbitrary clock time can lead to a smoother and more effective sleep routine.

By allowing flexibility and working with a child’s biological sleep needs rather than against them, families can create a more harmonious bedtime experience—one that fosters better sleep for both children and their parents.

Trudi Dawson is a Doula with 18 years experience supporting families. She is also an Infant Feeding Specialist and Holistic Sleep Coach. For postnatal support or 1:2:1 feeding or sleep support, please get in touch trudi@motheringmojo.com 07977489092 www.instagram.com/trudi_motheringmojo

welcoming new families

Broad Oak Preschool is a community setting offering a nurturing environment to children aged 2-5. Come and join our nature inspired learning approach. Our forest school allows children to learn through awe, wonder & exploration.

Get in touch to arrange a visit: 01435 864 326 manager@broadoakpreschool.co.uk www broadoakpreschool co uk Broad Oak PreSchool

New Opening Hours: Mon to Thurs - 07:30 - 16:00 Fri - 07:30 - 13:00

Jumping Beans

A group for 0-3s and their carers

Term-time: Thursdays 10.00am-11.30am

(£1 per morning or £5 for the half-term)

Horebeech Lane Horam TN21 0DT REFRESHMENTS + FRIENDSHIP www.christchurchhoram.org

LARGE and SMALL TOYS + SINGING

It’s our church for everyoneTogether@10 - at Christ Church Horam. Come along and find out what it’s all about!!! We start with refreshments, with chat, activities for the children, then a service for ALL the family. Why not enjoy it with us!! Sunday 16th March at 10.00am together @10 church for everyone

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathfield Park Cricket Club The Pavilion Old Heathfield East Sussex TN21 9AE

TUESDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY 10am - 3.30pm

Lunch Qi Gon Days Out

Monday Tea Club

2024/25 Dates

October: 7th & 21st

November: 4th & 18th

December: 9th

January: 6th & 20th

February: 3rd & 17th ...from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at Horam Chapel We have an interesting speaker: followed by afternoon tea All are welcome

Age Concern

All Saint’s Church Bell Ringers

Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Explorer

Bowling Club

Cross In Hand Bridge Club

Heathfield & Horam Football Club

Brownies

Christ Church Fellowship

USEFUL CONTACTS

01435 866960

07757 790529

01435 813023

Julie Langden

Allen Crisp allsaintschurchbellringers@gmail.com

Paul Sutton

07803 051048 -

01435 865536

01435 863001

07366 034310

07814 373402

01435 810348

Dementia Supper Clubs 07740 338120

Diamond Dance

Alan Archer

Jan Moore

Becki Chiweda

Mary Jones

Pamela Blakey

Lyn Leeves

01435 812543

Lizzie Owen 07985 306178 -

Eastbourne & District Canine Society 01323 506151

Heathfield Choral Society

Heathfield & District Horticultural Society 01435 830725

Heathfield Dementia Cafe, St. Richard’s 07739 984449

Church Hall

Heathfield Folk & Dance Club

Heathfield Food & Wine Circle

Heathfield Road Runners

Heathfield Bridge Club

01435 873551

01435 812704

01435 812926

01323 764384

Mrs Chris Cleland

Jenny Crisford heathfieldchoral.membership @gmail.com

Nick Jeggo

Zena Maher zenamaher@hotmail.co.uk

Joy Charlesworth sec@heathfieldfolk.org.uk

Lorraine Cooley

Fleur Blanford info@heathfieldroadrunners.com

Richard Gatwood

Heathfield Repair Cafe heathfieldrepaircafe@outlook.com facebook.com/Repair_Cafe_TN21

Heathfield Silver Band

Horam Christian Care Group

Horam Parish Allotment Society

Horam Parish Council, Horam Centre

Horam Flower Show

Horam Fun Day

Horam Guides

Horam & Heathfield Flower Club

Horam Pre-school

Horam Tennis Club

Horam Village Hall Hire

Horam WI

Oxney Vines Cross Tug of War

Rainbows

01435 862398

01435 812157

01435 812756

01435 812151

01435 812704

07889 652586

01435 813023

01435 863224

01435 813295

07802 582575

01435 813295

07580 596550

07850 382619

01435 812018

RSPCA 0300 1234 999

The Kit Wilson Trust for Animal Welfare

Vines Cross Bonfire Society

01825 830444

07976 426286

Vines Cross Community Association (VCCA) 01435 813513

Wealden Youth Choir

Welcome Art Group

Non emergency medical

Non emergency police

07808 222535

01435 862110

Manor Oak Surgery 018255 732333

Out of hours 8-8.30am

01825 732 333

6-6.30pm 0300 5555 252

Mallory Hansford mallory@heathfieldsilverband.org

Ann Procter

Carol Curd

Jackie Cottrell

Dave Cooley

Dave Sutton davesutton2011@hotmail.co.uk

Jo Sutton

Phyllis Stevens

Angela Wood

Stella Morris horamtennisclub@gmail.com

Angela Wood

Lesley Powell

Mike Hutch

Brenda Macklin

Mark Woods

Marian Parkyn

Tea Killick

Lee Smith

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Government makes Sussex a priority for devolution and new powers

Sussex will be a priority area for devolution the government has told us today, with plans going ahead to elect a mayor to lead a combined authority for the area.

ESCC had joined with neighbours from West Sussex County Council and Brighton & Hove City Council to propose the mayoral combined county authority for Sussex which will draw down more powers and funding for strategic planning and economic growth from central government.

The combined authority will be made up of an elected mayor and two representatives from each of the constituent authorities (including ESCC). It will have powers for strategic issues across Sussex including transport, housing, skills, health, the environment and climate change and public safety.

Councils in East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove will continue to operate most day-to-day services and will work with the combined authority

The government has also announced that elections to East Sussex County Council which were due to be held in May will now be postponed to allow preparations for the election of a mayor in May 2026.

The government will begin a public consultation on the devolution plan shortly.

Our leader Keith Glazier welcomed the devolution announcement, saying:

“I believe this is excellent news because it’s an opportunity for more decisions to be made locally and for greater investment here. I’m pleased the government has recognised our potential to prosper and develop together.”

You may have heard that the government also wants local government to reorganise, with residents in East Sussex being served by just one local council (‘unitary government’) rather than the present two tiers of county council and borough or district councils.

Road sign showing directions to several places in Sussex

This is separate from the creation of the mayoral authority announced today. We will update you on local government reorganisation as we hear more from the government on this.

The government’s full plans are set out in its White Paper on English Devolution published in December and it will shortly begin a public consultation on these changes.

English Devolution White Paper - GOV.UK

We will keep you updated about all developments. You can see our press release from today on our news site.

It should be noted that East Success County Council does not have the authority to ‘cancel elections’, the May 25 County elections have been deferred for one year by central government.

Councillor Bob Bowdler

(Member for Wealden East Division)

Lead Member for Children & Families

East Sussex Armed Forces Champion eastsussex.gov.uk

Lunch Qi Gong Days Out

Kit Wilson Horam & Vines (March 25) 128x45mm_Layout 1 13/12/2024 09:17 Page 1

Afternoon Tea Knitting Watercolour Painting Singing Baking Crafting & Creating Dancing Games Fun with the Children

For the rescue and re-homing of unwanted & abandoned animals, wildlife rescue & rehabilitation

Events Coming up Xmas Wreath Making Visits to local schools for their Christmas concerts

Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathﬁeld Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathﬁeld, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-3.30pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

If you would love to come along or know someone that would Call Rachel on 07971 032667 www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us

Every 2nd Saturday of the month except August Next Meeting March 8th 9.30-12 noon

We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267) Next Session 11th November 2023 - 9.30-12 noon

Come & enjoy some refreshments while you wait, we hope to see you! Help us preserve our environment and dent our throw-away culture Everyone is welcome & all services are free, but donations are welcome

Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs

On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - furniture - cycles - minor mechanical problems - small sewing repairs including darning

Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments

https://sites.google/view/heathfieldrepaircafe/home?pli=1 heathfieldrepaircafe.com facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21

Email: repaircafeheathfieldandhoram@outlook.com

Email repaircafeheathﬁeldandhoram@outlook.com https://sites.google.com/view/heathﬁeldrepaircafe/home?pli=1 www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21

Heathfield Repair Café

and Vines

Services for March:

Sun 2nd 10.30am Family Communion

(with children’s groups yrs1-6)

Sun 9th 10.30am Family Worship (with children’s groups yrs1-6)

Together@10 - Sun 16th 10.00am Church for Everyone

(please see information elsewhere in the Diary)

Sun 23rd 10.30am Family Worship (with children’s groups yrs1-6)

Sun 30th 10.30am Mothering Sunday - Family Worship (with children’s groups yrs1-6)

All ladies will be given a small gift as part of our thanksgiving for mothers.

An audio copy of the Sunday morning reading & sermon is available on our website within 24hrs of each service.

Other Activities:

Crossways - drop-in for refreshments & chat Bible Study - Growth Groups

Jumping Beans - Parent & Toddler Group Fellowship Group Supporting Horam Christian Care Group (Wednesday 5th March 10.00-12.00) (Thursdays 10.00-11.30 during term-time) (Tuesday 25th March at 2.00pm)

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vicar@christchurchhoram.org Davina Jones 01323 844552 www.christchurchhoram.org

If you’d like the opportunity of a chat, or if you’d like us to pray for or with you, please do make contact: Vicar: Wardens: Hall Hire: Revd PJ Guy Maryanne Ford Jane Thomas 01435 813372 01435 817769 01435 810398

We are very lucky to have such an amazing charity locally that cares for our wildlife. WRAS are always grateful for donations of towels, pillow slips, blankets and cat food. These items can be left at: Unit 8, The Shaw Barn, Whitesmith, BN8 6JD.

Why not visit their charity shop in Eastbourne? 01323 643111. Any animal in trouble call 0781 50 78234, for anything else call 01825 873003.

VINES CROSS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NEWS

Litter Picking-

It’s back! Come and join us at Hurstshaw pond on Saturday 8th March at 11:00 to make our village look clean and tidy.

Easter Bunny-

We have heard that he is coming to our village again and will deliver Easter treats to the children of the village on Easter Sunday. Please let him know if you would like an Easter treat delivered. Forms will be available at the telephone book box and will be popped through doors nearer the time. Forms should be posted through the door of Old Clappers and he will collect them from there.

Telephone Book Box-

The book box is having a makeover soon. Books and magazines are available to borrow. Please help yourself and enjoy. If you have any books that you have finished with and they are in reasonable condition please just put them on the shelves for others to enjoy.