Arty Parties Acrylic on Canvas Sessions 07482 261006
East
Uniting generations in the glorious setting of Heathfield Park Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Old Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 9AE 10-4pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
&
Art Classes For All Ages
If you would love to come along or know someone that would call Rachel on 07971 032667
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
Pottery Club Art Club Studio @ Vines Cross GCSE/A Level Tutoring Hen do’s/Baby Showers
Next
www.youngatheart.me.uk Follow us
We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village
We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267)
Independent financial advice you can trust
9th December 2023 - 9.30-12 noon 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
minor mechanical problems - furniture - small sewing repairs
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
Therapies and treatments available in a quiet and relaxed setting in Horam
We are pleased to announce a new therapist, Sophie Carpenter
She offers support to individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges with warmth, empathy, and in a safe, confidential space
- Dementia-Focused Counselling & Wellbeing Advice – Helping individuals with dementia and their loved ones navigate emotional, practical, and relational challenges
- Individual Counselling – A compassionate, person-centred approach tailored to your unique experiences and needs
- Couples & Family Counselling Strengthening relationships, improving communication, and fostering understanding in times of change or difficulty
Give us a call to book something you fancy … all our therapists also offer vouchers which make great gifts
Tel Daynna - 07770 820673 www.the-crystal-rooms.co.uk
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!
My mother’s war time story was experienced by so many young women of this time, who could have told similar tales.
Her rural Sussex upbringing in the 1920’s-30’s where everything moved at a slower pace, was suddenly catapulted into a maelstrom of activity. Mum said, though it was a scary time it was also exciting for a young person. ‘You just lived for the day and grew up very quickly!’ she said.
Gladys Funnell was the second eldest of five children, Doris (The eldest) Phylis, John, and Mavis. She lived with her parents at Burnetts, Rosers Cross, Waldron.
Her father Sydney was a carpenter/joiner and lumberjack, while her mother Grace looked after the family.
The dark clouds of a potential war were hanging over the country for some years during the 1930’s. Sydney knew something was up when he was approached in about 1938, to clear part of Possingworth Park of trees, to make way for construction of a road and concrete bases for temporary buildings.
When war was declared on 3rd September 1939, the family gathered around the mains powered radio to listen to the announcement made by Prime minister, Chamberlain. Sydney turned up the volume so the neighbours could hear as well.
After the great miraculous evacuation of troops off the Dunkirk beaches from 26th May to 4th June, Hitler planned operation ‘Sea Lion’ to invade Britain. But first he had to defeat the R.A.F. to dominate the skies.
On the 10th July 1940 the first German bombing raids began in earnest. The sound of air-raid sirens and Wardens high-pitched whistles became a familiar and terrifying announcement of war.
At first the Funnell’s did not have an air-raid shelter, instead they sheltered under the stair cupboard, ‘Curly’ their small mongrel dog was always the first in! One day when the sirens started up Doris, Glady’s older sister realised ‘Curly’ was not with them. She dashed out of the house and found ‘Curly’ who had been tied up close to her father’s workshop. As she ran back, she heard a swishing sound past her head. It was a piece of shrapnel from a dog-fight up above her head. Doris had a lucky escape and the piece of shrapnel was still red-hot after the raid, when they found it later in the garden. The Edwards family just a few doors down from Burnetts had a proper shelter built in their garden. At the height of ‘The Battle of Britain’ the Funnell’s sheltered with them.
Gladys aged 16, 1941
Sydney Funnell, tree felling in Possingworth Park 1938
Gladys and Doris said the sound of the German bombers was terrifying, as they groaned and throbbed their way to London heavily laden with bombs. Soon afterwards, even though Waldron was 50 miles from the city, the family could see the glow in the Northern sky emanating from the dropped bombs.
More terrifying for local people, was when the German bombers which could not make it to the city off-loaded their bombs over the south-east of England.
As the family got use to the air-raids more risks were taken to see what was going on. From their parents South facing bedroom, there was a clear view to the coast. At night the sky was lit up by searchlights sweeping the skies. By day Gladys said it was mesmerising watching the dog-fights, Spitfires and Hurricanes swooping and diving across a clear blue sky, attacking Luftwaffe’s Junkers, and Heinkel bombers, supported by Messerschmitt 109’s fighter aircraft. Trails of smoke zig-zagged across the sky.
One day, Doris and Gladys cried when they saw a Spitfire overhead on fire, fortunately the pilot was able to bail-out before crashing near Possingworth Manor. Their mother Grace said, ‘Don’t cry girls, he’s safe now!’
They later found out it was the Spitfire of Squadron Leader A.R.D. MacDonnell. The incident happened on 15th August 1940 at 5.50 p.m.
On another occasion a German plane on fire was shot down nearby. Glady’s and her siblings raced to the scene on their bicycle’s to be first there to the plane. On arrival she was horrified to see a leg in a flying boot, and the pilot’s body parts scattered over the scene. After this event the children changed their minds and realised the true horror of war.
The Home Guard arrested a German airman who had baled out in the Back Lane area. His plane was one of three that came down. He was later handed over to the Police.
The worst bombing raid and dog-fight was on 16th August 1940. Harried by the R.A.F. many of the bombers jettisoned their bombs.
Two men were killed at Scocus farm, and a bomb fell near Beaconsfield Terrace, FirGrove-Road, Cross-In-Hand.
Local Police, Home Guard and Wardens were always on the look-out for surviving German airmen. There were cases where the Home Guard had to be restrained from shooting them.
After leaving school at 14 the only work available was to work in service, which Gladys did not like the idea of. She really wanted to be a nurse, but her parents could not afford to pay for her to go to Grammer school due to the depression. Just prior to the war Gladys got a position as a maid working at the Possingworth Hotel, a job that she really enjoyed as she got on well with all the staff. The chef at the hotel always made Gladys laugh, one day she was in the large foyer/hall when she heard a cough, she looked up to see the chef standing on the stair landing, giving a Nazi salute while exclaiming, “Heil Hitler”!
By early 1940 a Canadian regiment had moved into Possingworth Camp. Their officers were based at the Hotel. Gladys said they were very friendly and polite.
Local single girls (And some married women) were also very impressed with the Canadians, not so by local lads who thought they were stealing ‘Their girls.’ And they were--- ‘Overpaid, over sexed and over here!’
There was the occasional ruckus at the Star Inn, Waldron, when consumption of too much alcohol was involved, but generally they were well received.
Doris on reaching 16 did her war work at the Lions Green building works, near Tanners Manor. Gladys followed her soon afterwards on her sixteenth birthday.
The Lions Green war work was making long range fuel tanks for the De Havilland Mosquito aircraft, and parts for the Auster gliders. The men made the framework from wood while the women cut the canvas type material that covered the tank with Pinking Shears. Everything had to line up perfectly and was heavily scrutinised by a very critical foreman. Gladys and Doris then had the job of covering the canvas with what was called ‘Dope,’ which gave off a terrible smell that got into their work cloths and sometimes onto their skin. There were no respirators or gloves for protection.
There was some excitement when it was found out after the event that Churchill, Lieutenant General Montgomery, and General Eisenhower had held a meeting at Possingworth Hotel on the 27th May 1942, to discuss an attack on German forces in northern France.
This planned assault became known as ‘Operation Jubilee’ better known the ill-fated ‘Dieppe Raid,’ which took place on 19th August 1942.
Several thousand allied soldiers became trapped on French beaches. By the operations end 3623 men had been killed. Valuable lessons had been learned from this operation. Possingworth camp became empty for a while after this exercise.
In June 1943 another Canadian force was based at the camp, ‘1st Battalion, The Algonquins Regiment.’ There were some native Americans in the regiment (Hence the name) and they set up a Totem Pole at the entrance to the camp. Their native moto was ‘Ne-Kah-Ne-Tah,’ (‘We lead, others follow’).
Gladys in her Lions Green overalls 1941
What with the Americans joining the war as well as Commonwealth and other nations in Britain. The whole of Sussex became an armed camp. Gladys said army vehicles were lined nose to tail all down the Lewes Road from the windmill, almost into Blackboys. Warren Lane was the same. All the vehicles were covered in camouflage netting.
The girls hated cycling down the lanes as they received never ending wolf whistles. There was one French Canadian soldier of ‘The Royal Army Service Corps,’ at the camp that Gladys liked very much, his name was ‘Jonny.’
Hospice Run 2025September 21st 2025
Lower Common Cricket Ground, Tunbridge Wells 8am-12:30pm
Are you a serious competition runner? Someone who enjoys a regular weekend exercise? Someone who likes walking in the summer sun? or a family looking to experience a fun Sunday together? The Hospice Run, now in its nineteenth year, has something for everyone.
You can sign up for the following routes
1. Family Fun Run: The theme is “Hospice Heroes” and is suitable for all ages and abilities. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite hero as they dodge the water.
2. 5k: for runners starting off on their fitness journey.
3. 10k: for regular runners who like a challenge, taking in popular Tunbridge Wells landmarks.
4. Half marathon: our ultimate challenge! Our half marathon is an undulating route, Suitable for experienced athletes or those wanting to practise their first half marathon distance.
However, the day is about more than just walking or running – there is an amazing event atmosphere, with live music to provide motivation. Sign up now to avoid missing out on one of the most hotly anticipated closed-road routes in the Southeast
Visit the events section of our website to find out about the route details, answers to questions you may have, explore payment and fundraising options, and to register for the event. https://www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk/events/hospice-run-2025/ Alternatively, please call Hospice in the Weald on 01892 820533. All entry fees and funds raised support Hospice in the Weald’s care for people facing terminal illness and their loved ones in Kent and East Sussex.
For the rescue and re-homing of unwanted & abandoned animals, wildlife rescue & rehabilitation
Healthcare Clinic
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
Hello Horam
Local. Personal. Here for you.
Moving home is a big moment and I believe it deserves time, care, and a personal touch. At Heart and Home East Sussex, I offer a supportive, one-to-one estate agency service where you’re never just a number.
From beautifully showcasing your home to being there at the end of the phone for any question (big or small), I’m with you every step of the way.
Based locally, I’m proud to help people in our community make their next move with confidence and ease. For a friendly chat or to find out more:
Victoria Slinn
BUYING
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.
Services for July
Sun 6th 10.30am Family Communion
(with children’s groups yrs1-6)
Sun 13th 10.30am Family Worship
(with children’s groups yrs1-6)
Sun 20th 10.00am Together@10 at the Village Hall Church for Everyone
(see information elsewhere in the Diary)
Sun 27th 10.30am Family Worship –(with children’s groups yrs1-6)
A video of the Sunday morning reading & sermon is usually available on our website within 24hrs of each service: www.christchurchhoram.org
Other Activities:
Crossways - drop-in for refreshments & chat - Wednesday 2nd July 10.00-12.00
Bible Study - Growth Groups – contact Rev PJ Guy
Jumping Beans - Parent & Toddler Group - Thursdays 10.00-11.30 during term-time
Fellowship Group - Tuesday 29th July at 2.00pm
Village Prayer Meeting – Monday 21st July 7.30pm (at Christ Church)
Supporting Horam Christian Care Group
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: Rev PJ Guy - 01435 813372; vicar@christchurchhoram.org
Wardens: MaryAnne Ford - 01435 817769; Davina Jones - 07809 545397
Hall Hire: Jane Thomas - 01435 810398
HORAM PARISH NEWS
Please come along to the next parish council Skate Jam which is being held on Thursday 31st July at the Horam Recreation Ground from 10am – 3pm.
The event is free to and is open to all ages and abilities. Coaching with the experts takes place in the morning with fun competitions in the afternoon. If you don’t have all the equipment this can be provided on the day. We look forward to seeing you there!!
A big thank you to Cllr Gary Brockhurst who spent over 27 hours repairing a damaged finger post in the parish.
Planning Appeal: Great Easterfields Chiddingly Rd. APP/C1435/W/25/3660712 This outline application proposes the construction of seven dwellings following the demolition of the existing, structurally sound, early 18thcentury building. HPC has again objected with further comments.
An important message to all dog owners. Please pick up after your pets and keep the Horam parish a clean and healthy place to live.
All the meetings of the council are held in public. 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 available on the council website https://horamparishcouncil.gov.uk/ and the parish council notice boards. These are located at the Horam Centre and in the Memorial Garden. If you have any accessibility issues regarding physically attending a council 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 now has a NEW comprehensive website. In addition to providing current news, you can report issues related to roads, flooding, parking, and crime directly through the website. See details opposite.
It also provides details of all Parish Council meetings, both current and historic. The planning meeting agendas include links to the applications.
The parish council office hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9.30 -12.30pm Fridays 10.00 – 1pm
You can contact the Parish Council by email, post or telephone.
Horam Parish Council, The Horam Centre, High Street Horam, Horam TN21 0EH
HORAM PARISH NEWS
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 NUS GHANI
It is hard to believe that it has been a whole year since the last General Election and ten years since I was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Wealden in 2015. The time has flown by, and I am hugely grateful to the voters of Wealden, and now Sussex Weald for their support and for returning me to Parliament last July.
It has been a very busy time for me since the election and I continue building on my strong record of action and supporting residents, businesses, charities, schools and various organisations across the constituency. To name just a few examples, I recently convened meetings with the Secretary of State for Transport and Minister for Local Transport to advocate for more resources for our roads and railways; held several meetings focussing on rural crime with Sussex Police and our Police & Crime Commissioner; welcomed a new healthcare facility to Hailsham, welcomed the Mayfield Post Office back to the High Street and officially reopened the newly-refurbished Frant Post Office; secured improvements to our water infrastructure including in Halland, Hellingly, Rushlake Green and Wadhurst; and was pleased to open the Crowborough Business Expo 2025.
Additionally, I was proud to become a Patron of Hailsham-based charity Medi Tech Trust whose exceptional work is making a significant contribution not only to local hospitals in East Sussex, but also across the country and overseas. I also continue working on several campaigns including: working with mobile service providers to improve coverage at Wadhurst train station; supporting Heathfield charity Wealden Works; championing our local medical facilities, our schools and academies; and working with our communities to deliver several projects including a new community centre in Hadlow Down, an expansion to Horam exercise opportunities and a BMX Pump Track, and secure a positive future of the Kings Head pub in East Hoathly.
My motivation has always been to be an advocate for local people, and I am keen to continue to be a strong voice for our communities both in Parliament and at home in Sussex Weald. My surgeries are taking place across the constituency in person, over the phone and online, so if there is anything you need my assistance with, please do get in touch with me via email nusrat.ghani.mp@parliament.uk.
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
Horam WI
We meet on the First Tuesday of every month 2pm - 4pm at West End, Christ Church, Horebeech Lane, TN21 0DT
Victoria South will be giving her talk
The History of English Wine
Ladies, visitors are always welcome & every meeting always includes time for a cuppa and chat
We’ll be at the Horam Fun Day on Sunday13th July come a long and visit us at our Cake Stall
Our activities include guest speakers, monthly craft club, lunches, walks & outings. Other courses & activities are also available through East Sussex Federation of WIs & the ‘WI Learning Hub’
Contact us for more details T: Lesley 07580 596550 wihoram@gmail.com www.east-sussex/thewi.org.uk/find-wi/horam
‘Please recycle empty vitamin and medicine blister packs at Boots the Chemist’
Warm wishes are extended to Taher who has recently retired from our local Pharmacy, the staff he worked with for so many years and patients he has served wish him a Happy Retirement.
Lunch Qi Gong Days Out Afternoon Tea Knitting Watercolour Painting Singing Baking Crafting & Creating Dancing Fun with the Children
Events Coming up Xmas Wreath Making Visits to local schools for their Christmas concerts
It’s our church for everyone –Together@10 - at The Village Hall. Come along and find out what it’s all about!!!
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
We start with refreshments, with chat, activities for the children, then a service for ALL the family. Why not enjoy it with us!!
Follow us
Sunday 20th July at 10.00am together @10 church for everyone
We meet Every 2nd Saturday of the month except August at 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
Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs
Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments
Help us preserve our environment and dent our throw-away culture On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - furniture - cycles - minor mechanical problems & small sewing repairs including darning
Come & enjoy some refreshments while you wait, we hope to see you!
www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTN21
Horam and Vines Cross Diary
If you are interested in advertising, have an article or event of interest please contact Dawn on 07545 784767
Heathfield WI
Main Hall, Union Church Station Road Heathfield TN21 8LB
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
Next meeting July 8th 10 - 12
A Talk from St Wilfred’s Hospice
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
CHURCHES
Thursday July 10th 2025 6.00pm. for 7.00pm at Horam Park Golf Club
Two course meal @ £24.00
Speakers:Chris and Denise Arthey
Please book with your CTH & D representative or with Sue Mumford 01580 819415
(You will be asked to choose your menu when booking)
(Bookings and payments not later than Sunday June 29th please)
Memory Moments Café HORAM
For
*Supporting
and their
Frogheath Landscapes Apprentice Impresses At Chelsea Flower Show In The Build Of A Gold Winning Garden
Chelsea Flower Show – Building Seawilding.
Frogheath Landscapes have been training apprentices for over 20 years. Many of our apprentices have gone on to be successful landscapers, either within the company or through starting their own business. This includes Henry Duck from Studio Create, which operates in Dubai.
Most recently, Frogheath Landscapes has been recognised as “Apprentice Employer Of The Year” at Plumpton College, for their commitment to training apprentices in landscaping and horticulture.
Frogheath Landscapes were approached by two garden designers to build their garden at Chelsea Flower Show in 2025. Oli spent a week travelling up to the site of the show in the grounds of Royal Hospital Chelsea, to contribute to the build of his first show garden “Seawilding” designed by Ryan McMahon from Musa Landscape Architecture.
Day 1: When we arrived on site the organisers were still digging the footings for our garden. This meant we could only unload some of the tools and materials from our vans. There is so much traffic and machinery, slots to stop, unload and move are very tight.
Day 2: Today we built the main structure of the stand with sleepers and laid the concrete base for the water tank. We then put in posts with ply wood for back wall of the garden. These stand about 4m tall. We added soil to the garden in preparation for planting. Lastly, we started the side wall of rocks.
Day 3: Today we finished off side wall of rocks. The big job for the day was to put the water tank on the concrete base. This will be where the sea grass is planted and displayed. The seating area for the garden features large rocks which we installed. Towards the end of the day, we started planting trees.
The concrete base for the water tank
Day 4: The large back wall was painted with black paint. We complimented the finished side walls and front of the stand with rocks and placed in the rock steps. To finish the week, we planted more trees and put in the hedges at the back.
Seawilding at the end of Build Week 1
What Oli says about the experience:
“I’ve felt very tired because of long days but I have managed to have a nice rest this weekend and feel ready for this coming week. I have had a great time and glad I’ve had the opportunity to be part of it all.”
Seawilding’s designer, Ryan McMahon, was asked what he thought about Oli’s performance:
“I had no idea he was an apprentice!” He exclaimed to Harriet. “He just got on with the job, worked really well with the team and showed great initiative.”
The finished garden:
The following week, Oli was relocated to a local project with another Frogheath Landscapes team, whose work continued in gardens across East Sussex throughout the entire Chelsea Garden build time. Thanks to his efforts, the hard landscaping was mostly complete, with Ryan and a small team of volunteers focusing on planting in the second week.
On Tuesday 20th May, Medals Day at Chelsea, it was announced that Seawilding received a Gold Medal. This was the first time that seagrass was feature at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and highlights the increasing importance of marine conservation in the fight against climate change.
Everyone involved in the build of both gardens, from admin and logistics through to transport, build and planting has worked hard and Frogheath Director Steve Moody is very proud of the team effort. With apprentices like Oli getting such a good start in their landscaping careers, the future is looking bright for the industry.
GARDENING DIARY
" St. Swithun's Day if ye do rain, for forty days it will remain. St. Swithun's Day if thou be fair, for forty days it'll rain no more."
St Swithun was a down-to-earth Anglo-Saxon bishop, venerated by all and especially by the common folk of England. He was constantly on the move; travelling to all corners of Saxon England on foot, doling out alms and feasting the poor. Born during the reign of king Egbert and in his latter years tutoring the young prince Alfred, he became one of England's best loved saints. In keeping with his love of the common folk he requested that his remains be interred beneath the pavement outside Winchester cathedral: "Where it might be subject to the feet of passers-by and the drops of rain from on high". But in 971 his remains were brought inside the new cathedral to lie beside the Egg kings of Wessex, during which process the outraged saint beseached God to cast down a tremendous deluge upon the workmen engaged in opening up his grave. The legend of the forty days of rain may have some scientific basis; the jet stream will often have settled into a static position around the 15th of July, (The Saint's feast day); if it lies north of the British Isles we may count on a long period of continental high pressure, deflecting weather systems upon the heads of the Scots and other sundry northern tribes, and if to the south, Atlantic and northerly weather may prevail, giving a wet and dreary summer, though full of the life-giving rain that St Swithun so loved. So, back down at ground level we are aware that the gardener's work is never done and even now, with the beds and borders in their full blaze of summer glory, a thought must be given to winter and to next season.
Spring flowering bulbs should be lifted and such subjects as autumn flowering Crocuses may be planted to give them a good chance to develop their flowers. Any branches on plum trees showing signs of silverleaf disease should be cut out at once and burned. This disease causes a metallic silvering of the leaf and can quickly spread around the whole tree. It is usually fatal. Now is the time for thinning the apples. If the king fruit ( The one in the middle of the cluster ) has not already been removed and there are other fruits to take its place, then it is these king fruits that should go. Pears, plums and even dessert cherries will all repay careful thinning if there has been a heavy set.
In the vegetable garden the planting of brassicas should be pushed ahead as soon as ground becomes vacant. Continue to sow salads such as lettuce and radish for succession. A last sowing of French beans for a late crop may be made. Runner and French beans should be fed as they begin to make pods. Onions and shallots may be lifted and dried once the foliage starts to wither. And a fine sight they make hanging from the rafters in the shed. Celery must be watered frequently or it will bolt and run to seed. If the reader kept a bag of soot from last Autumn's chimney sweeping, as I'm sure we all did, a dusting of this makes an excellent deterrent to celery fly (One might
GARDENING DIARY
try the local chimney sweep for supplies, I believe he advertises in this publication). Fruiting tomatoes should be fed regularly.
This is a good time to gather herbs for drying, tied up in small bundles they make handsome companions to the knots of onions in the shed. Faded flower buds of Delphiniums, Lupins, and other early flowering perennials should be cut out before seed is set to encourage secondary growth. Roses too, should be regularly dead-headed.
For autumn flowers of Lupins and Delphiniums, the plants should be cut down at the beginning of this month and watered with a liquid fertiliser. Cut grass makes an excellent mulch for carrot and spinach beds and around bush fruits, raspberries and Sweet peas, Lilies, Dahlias, Gladioli and other flowering plants, though not laid on too thick for fear of starving the soil of nitrogen. As roses come to the end of their first flush of flowering, they may be fed with a high potash fertiliser to boost the second lot of flowers. Dead-heading of all faded blooms should be carried out at every opportunity.
Dahlias can be fed now but be careful to keep the feed well away from stems and leaves. Taller varieties should be securely staked. Towards the end of the month we may start propagating shrubs. For lack of space I refer the reader to the relevant literature for methods of propagation. Cuttings of Forsythia, flowering Currant, Escallonia, Weigela and Deutzia and many other subjects will all root easily.
Whilst we may allow ourselves on occasion to sit back in the shed indulging in a long pipe and quiet ruminations over our onions and herbs so fragrantly drying above us in the rafters, with its soundtrack of cooing wood pigeons and on the wireless, the clatter of Indian wickets a-falling, we must still occasionally gird ourselves to keep the hoe going as often as hoers' elbow will allow. All borders should receive a vigorous stirring from the Dutch hoe at least every seven days.
RIVER MEAD NURSERY
Foords Lane, Vines Cross, Horam, East Sussex TN21 9HB
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
Thanks to our Sponsors
Horam Parish Council - Downwood Vets
The Pet Food Shop Heathfield - Samuel & SonGlossy Dog Groomers - Horam Manor Caravan Park
TAO Technology - Jollyes the Pet People - Biffa
l Great Value & High Quality Own Brand Pet Food
l Loyalty Card for Added Value!
l Wide Range of Frozen Products
l Good Range of Pet Beds
l Burns - Skinners - Natural Instinct Paleo Ridge - Natures Menu
James WellBeloved - Nutriment Plus Many More!
l Many Varieties of Wild Bird Food & Feeders
l Online Shop with Click & Collect in store Local Delivery
Call or Text 07748 270494 or write to The Horam Centre, 3 Bank Buildings, High Street, Horam, TN21 0EH Wi-Fi. Kitchen etc
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
Afternoon Tea Knitting Watercolour Painting
Singing Baking Crafting & Creating
Dancing Games Fun with the Children
Dancing & Bingo 2-4pm every 2nd & 4th Thursday at The Union Church Heathfield
CROSSWAYS COFFEE MORNING
Wednesday 2nd July 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
Age Concern
All Saint’s Church Bell Ringers
Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Explorer
Bowling Club
Cross In Hand Bridge Club
Heathfield & Horam Football Club
Brownies
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
Christ Church Fellowship 01435 810348
Dementia Supper Clubs 07740 338120
Diamond Dance 01435 812543
Alan Archer
Jan Moore
Becki Chiweda
Mary Jones
Pamela Blakey
Lyn Leeves
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
Carpentry, Including flooring, door hanging, stud walls
Free “No Obligation” Quotations & Advice
GEORGE 07947746265 www.gsbinteriors.co.uk
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.
Christ Church Fellowship
Will be meeting on Tuesday 29th July at 2pm
Our speaker will be The reverend PJ Guy
Talking about his adventures as a windsurfer
The meeting will be followed by afternoon tea
Come along We would love to see you
We meet at Christ Church Horebeech Lane Horam TN21 0DT ALL WELCOME
So this month we explore familiar feelings
We are more than halfway through 2025 and there have been many changes in our lovely little village; Horam and Heathfield. New businesses opening and the cuckoo trail is looking stunning and I for one am enjoying early sunrise walks and runs, being in nature really helps me set myself up for the day ahead. It reminded me of The latest Bridget Jones movie; ‘Promise me you will live Bridget, not just exist?’ and got me thinking about how building new rituals and how working on self we are able to look towards thriving rather than existing on a childhood script. Life has a way of reminding us that how we have lived might not best serve us;
What if you’re not stuck… you’re just familiar with the feeling?
What if you’re not lazy, you’re addicted to the emotional pattern that comes with procrastination?
What if it’s not about food or alcohol at all, but about the deeply wired ritual of guilt that follows?
What if shame isn’t something happening to you, but something your nervous system recognises as safe because it’s familiar?
At Nook & Nourish, we go beyond surface-level habits. We dive into the emotional rituals that live in the body, the fascia, the breath. We work with women who find themselves repeating the same stories, even when they know better — because the body remembers, even when the mind forgets.
You don’t have to live in cycles of emotional self-sabotage. There’s nothing “wrong” with you. You’re not broken, you’ve just been wired for survival.
Let us help you rewire for thriving.
This is the work. This is the healing. Not just talking it out, but feeling your way free.
Ready to break the emotional patterns that are running the show?
Love Michelle jane xxx
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