We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267)
Watercolour & Acrylics for Adults
Next Session 9th December 2023 - 9.30-12 noon
Next Session 9th December 2023 - 9.30-12 noon
Next Session 11th May 2024 - 9.30am -11 am
Half Term Workshops
noon
Next 11th November - 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!
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!
Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs
Arty Parties for any age
Items we repair include: computers, electrical items, cycles, minor mechanical problems, furniture and small sewing repairs is welcome - join for cakes & refreshments
Private Tuition
On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - cyclesminor mechanical problems - furniture - small sewing repairs
On most occasions we will be able to repair: computers - electrical items - cyclesminor mechanical problems - furniture - small sewing repairs
Everyone is welcome - join us for home-baked cakes & refreshments
Collections resume on your usual collection day, from Monday 13 January 2025
Garden
and
Check your collection days online : www.wealden.gov.uk
Please ensure that the bins are put out at the edge of your property by 7am on the day of collection. Please take them in as soon as possible after collection.
Extra recycling can be placed out in non-black plastic bags next to the recycling bin for collection (except for glass which should only be placed into the recycling bin).
All your wrapping paper and cards (except foil/glitter) can be placed in the recycling bin.
Recycle your real tree in your Garden Waste Bin or take it to your local Household Waste Recycling Site.
Sign up to Wealden Weekly and receive weekly emails about your collections. Visit: www.wealden.gov.uk/wealden-weekly or scan the QR code to easily subscribe.
Thorndale FURNISHERS
LTD
Come & see our wide range of leather & fabric sofas & chairs, dining & bedroom furniture & our extensive beautiful range of beds. All prices, all qualities.
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
Current Open Times
Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm
Saturdays 10am to 4pm
Sundays 10am to 2pm
Bank Holidays 10am to 4pm
Winter Sale Starts Friday 27th December
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
• Back and Neck Pain • Arthritic Pain
Jane Richmond - B.A., B.Sc (Hons) Ost
• Sporting Injuries • Tension Headaches
• Shoulder Pain
• Sciatic Pain
Safe and effective treatment for adults and children including:
• Pregnancy related Discomfort
INHOLMES OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE
Horam Healthcare Clinic
• 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.
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
Stepping Stones Podiatr y
Podiatry/Chiropody
Home Visiting Service
Jane Stoner BSc(Hons) MRCPod HCPC registered
• Professional and friendly service in the comfort of your home.
• All aspects of foot and nail care.
• Areas covered: Heathfield, Horam, Mayfield, Uckfield and surrounding villages.
To arrange a visit: 07809 210836 steppingstonespodiatry@gmail.com www.steppingstonespodiatry.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!
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
Dark Skies policy
End of October I attended an inspiring talk in Bodle Street Green, organised by residents as part of the High Weald Dark Skies Festival. Doug Edworthy of the Astronomical Society and Herstmonceux Observatory (soon to close its doors, alas) explained how easy it is to spot on clear nights the Milky Way and many constellations with the naked eye, as long as we avoid light pollution. Wealden is backing this and has laid down clear rules for planning applications.
Update on Southern Water
SW finally recognised the huge problems it has created for residents. In the latest meeting with ESCC and WDC, SW’s representatives were keen to stress that customers and the environment are their priority (a tacit admission that this is new); they acknowledged that it will take a long time to fix the faulty system and cost a lot of money and that it will have to come from customers (us), borrowing and shareholders. Work at the Wastewater Treatment Works in Crowborough and in Hailsham has started and some drains and sewers are having their capacities increased but the deadline of 2050 for completion seems to have been adopted by the new government.
Planning
A detailed response to the government’s consultation on planning changes by WDC: https://www.wealden.gov.uk/UploadedFiles/Response-to-the-NPPF-Consultation-2024-V5.
pdf
WDC Leader (Rachel Millward) and Deputy Leader (James Partridge) have written to Angela Rayner (Deputy Prime Minister and in charge of planning) about the current planning and housing finance systems preventing us from providing or securing the social and affordable housing badly needed by thousands of people in Wealden. Please email me if you’d like a copy of the letter.
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
Wealden parish and town councils will receive their share of just over £1.2 million from WDC’s fund for 31 March to 30 September 2024 to support infrastructure like play areas, parks, roads, public transport, health facilities, schools and flood defences. Horam’s Neighbourhood Plan ensures that HPC will receive 25% of CIL.
Wealden Disability Inclusion Group (WDIG)
Horam Parish Councillor Jane Trott, an active member of WDIG, is registered Severely Sight Impaired / Blind and campaigns, on behalf of the parish, for those with accessibility issues for improved pavements, parking and, importantly, better access to the Horam council. Jane encourages people to approach her with any concerns or suggestions: jane.trott@horamparishcouncil.gov.uk
Please get in touch with me with any concerns by e-mail (preferred) or phone.
Sadly, I won’t be able to hold my monthly session at the next Repair Café, Horam Village Hall, 14 December 2024. HAPPY XMAS AND A HEALTHY AND ENJOYABLE NEW YEAR to all Horam parishioners.
Cornelie Usborne, Green Party Councillor, Horam & Punnetts Town, Cllr.cornelie.usborne@ wealden.gov.uk, 07979336401
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.
Every 2nd Saturday of the month except August Next Meeting December 7th 9.30-12 noon
We meet 2nd Saturday of every month at Horam Village Hall TN21 0JE (A267)
Come & enjoy some refreshments while you wait, we hope to see you!
Next Session 11th November 2023 - 9.30-12 noon
dent
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
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
Securing Your Legacy with a Lifetime Trust
Navigating the uncertainties of life can be challenging, but securing the future of your loved ones need not be. With a Lifetime Trust you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your assets have been safeguarded and will benefit your chosen loved ones exactly as you intend.
Many believe that Lifetime Trusts are only for the wealthy, but this is no longer the case with ordinary folk now owning their homes and looking to protect their assets. We have made Lifetime Trusts an affordable and practical solution and made it possible for anyone to secure their family’s future with the same protection and foresight that the wealthy have enjoyed for centuries.
Why choose a Lifetime Trust?
• Avoid the cost and delays of probate: Grant immediate access on your death to some or all of your assets held in trust without the need for probate.
• Control and protection: Claim full control over your assets and shield your family’s inheritance from divorce, creditors, and other predatory challenges.
• Ensure future care of your beneficiaries: Guarantee that the trust capital can assist your loved ones for generations; for example, for education, health care, and first homes.
• Retain more of your wealth: Strategically reduce or even eliminate potential inheritance tax liabilities for yourself and future generations.
Many believe setting up a trust means losing control; however, the reality is quite the opposite. With the right planning, a Lifetime Trust allows you to maintain full control over your assets both during your lifetime and after death. A Lifetime Trust ensures that your wishes regarding your assets are meticulously realised with precision and care.
By setting up a Lifetime Trust you can preserve your legacy, ensuring your intentions are fulfilled not just for the present, but also for future generations.
Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service
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The Importance of Hearing Tests
Hearing is one of the most critical senses we rely on for communication, social interaction, and overall well-being. Yet as adults age, hearing loss can become a common issue, often creeping up gradually and unnoticed until it significantly impacts daily life. The importance of regular hearing tests, cannot be overstated. These tests play a crucial role in early detection, prevention, and management of hearing loss, ensuring quality of life is maintained for as long as possible.
Age-Related Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, affects a large portion of the aging population. It is estimated that more than 40% of people over 50 and nearly 70% of those over 70 experience some form of hearing loss. The reasons for this include natural wear and tear on the auditory system, prolonged exposure to loud noises over a lifetime, and other agerelated health conditions, such as cardiovascular issues and diabetes, which can contribute to hearing problems.
Despite its prevalence, hearing loss is often neglected or accepted as an inevitable part of aging. Many older adults may not even realize their hearing has deteriorated because the process is gradual. Therefore, regular hearing tests are essential to detect problems early on, even before the individual notices symptoms.
Early Detection and Intervention
One of the primary reasons hearing tests are important is that they facilitate early detection. Like many health conditions, hearing loss can worsen over time if left unaddressed. Early detection enables prompt interventions that can slow down or manage the progression of hearing decline. For example, using hearing aids early on can help maintain the brain’s ability to process sounds, as the brain adapts to hearing loss over time by weakening the neural pathways responsible for sound recognition.
Moreover, untreated hearing loss is linked to a range of other health problems, including cognitive decline, social isolation, and depression. A study by Action on Hearing Loss suggests that older adults with untreated hearing loss are at a higher risk of developing dementia. Regular hearing tests, coupled with appropriate interventions, can mitigate these risks, contributing to better cognitive health and mental well-being.
Maintaining Social Connections
Another important reason for regular hearing tests is the impact hearing loss can have on social relationships. Difficulty hearing can make conversations challenging, leading to frustration for both the individual and their friends and family. As a result, many people with untreated hearing loss tend to withdraw from social situations, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
In the UK, social isolation among older adults is already a significant issue, and hearing loss only exacerbates the problem. By identifying hearing issues early, hearing tests enable individuals to take steps, such as using hearing aids or communication strategies, to stay engaged with their communities and maintain their social connections.
Conclusion
Regular hearing tests for adults as they age are essential for maintaining overall health, well-being, and quality of life. Hearing loss is a common part of aging, but it does not have to be a barrier to communication, cognitive health, or social connection. With early detection, accessible treatment options, and ongoing support, you can manage hearing loss effectively and continue to live vibrant, connected lives well into their later years. If you are worried about your hearing and hearing loss, call Melina Joy Opticians (see ad opp) on 01435 868181 to book a free hearing assessment with our Audiologist Antonio.
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
HORAM PARISH NEWS
It was nice to see so many members of the local community at the Remembrance Day Parade on Sunday 10th November and at the Service of Remembrance on Monday 11th November. The Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the council laid wreaths and paid their respects on behalf of all Members.
On an exciting note, the Horam Christmas Fun Night is days away. The event is on Thursday 5th December from 5.30-8.00pm. Many of the local shops will be open and some will offer free goodies. There is the free treasure hunt taking place along the High Street. Please come to the parish council office to pick up your form and there is a prize for all children on completion which can be collected from Samuel & Son. Downwood Vets will be hosting activities for the children, Diamond Dance will be performing at the Chapel, Horam Emporium and the Cuckoo Café will be decorating gingerbread reindeer and face-painting with some mulled wine for the adults. There will be live performances from the Wealden Brass Band and various choirs on the Co-op forecourt from 5.30-8pm. And most importantly for the children Father Christmas will be coming to the Horam Centre from 5.30pm free of charge – each child will receive a gift (whilst stocks last). Art and Tricha will be presented with a community award certificate from the council on the night for all their efforts arranging events over the years. This is the first year the parish council are organising the night and we would like to officially thank Samuel & Son, Sussex Weald Homes, The Horam Club Rooms Charity and the Horam Traders Association for their generous sponsorship.
The stair climber to aid accessibility into the council offices and for public meetings has finally been ordered and will be arriving early in the new year. The council’s grant application for funding has been successful and Wealden District Council have provided 50% of the cost for the stair climber. The parish council are extremely pleased with this news.
Please report any overgrown hedges on the highway and road signs blocked by foliage to East Sussex Highways who will contact the landowner. Now is the time for homeowners to trim their hedges ready for winter. Also to help promote the growth of wildflowers the council recommend that you compost any grass cuttings left on your verges.
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over state pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges. It is separate from your State Pension. You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home. Pension Credit is worth, on average, £3,900 a year. You might get extra help if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.
You can apply for Pension Credit online: gov.uk/pension-credit You can also call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Wealden Works, who are based in Heathfield, help to develop employability and life skills for those 16–24-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training (NEET). Following the end of mainstream education at GCSE age, students can opt to enrol with Wealden Works to help develop further skills and qualifications and explore career choices. During their time with Wealden Works there are opportunities for work trials and business tours to help provide an insight into industries that may match skills and interests. Their services are free and over the years they have helped many children in the parish. They are in desperate need of any old laptops which you may have
HORAM PARISH NEWS
spare in your home. Any equipment would be professionally wiped by Wealden Works before use. If you are able to help, please contact them on: 07437 496651 or email lcrozier@wealdenworks.co.uk .
We also hope some of the local children are enjoying the Horam Detached Youth Session on a Monday evening from 6pm-7pm which is open to children and young adults from the ages of 10 to 19 at the Horam recreation ground. Younger children are welcome if accompanied by an appropriate adult. The parish council continues to actively work with East Sussex County Council to find a permanent youth facility for the young people of Horam.
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 meeting, please contact the Clerk directly who will arrange access to the meeting via zoom.
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 - Thursday 9.30am – 12.30pm, Friday: 10am – 1pm. You can contact the Parish Council by email, post or telephone.
Parish Clerk: clerk@horamparishcouncil@gov.uk 01435 812151 or 07900 576236
The Clerk, Horam Parish Council, The Horam Centre, High Street, Horam
St Wilfrid’s Hospice helps people in Eastbourne, Seaford, Hailsham, Heathfield and Uckfield live well at the end of life. And we support their families and carers. With 70% of our funding coming from fundraising, gifts in wills, shops and donations, we need your help to keep offering care to local people.
NEWS FROM NUS GHANI
As we approach the end of another busy year, please allow me to reflect on some of the local successes and work that has been done to support our communities.
I am hugely grateful to the voters of Sussex Weald for returning me to Parliament in July. I continue building on my strong record of delivery and I am pleased that we’ve had some great news for several local organisations receiving Government support. Amongst others, these included: Beacon Academy in Crowborough and Uplands Academy in Wadhurst benefitting from multi-million-pound funding for building upgrades; the 1st Horam Scouts receiving over £27,500 for improvements to their facilities; investment of over £70,000 to help Hailsham swimming pool improve its energy efficiency; and over £297,000 for a new Community and Health Centre in Mayfield and Five Ashes. Improvements to water infrastructure are also taking place across the constituency, including in Halland, Hellingly, Wadhurst, Rotherfield, Heathfield and Punnets Town, as well as the £30 million upgrades at Bewl Water reservoir.
It’s also been a year of huge success for TeamGB and I’m incredibly proud that Sussex Weald has its own Olympic Gold Medallist Emily Craig from Mark Cross, who began her career at Bewl Bridge Rowing Club. I was pleased to meet Emily to congratulate her in person, and I continue working with our organisations including Hailsham Active and Horam GAP project on boosting accessible sports facilities in the area.
There are many ongoing projects which I will continue progressing next year including work with: Southern Water to prevent flooding and sewage overspills; Sussex Police on tackling rural crime and enhancing road safety; Ashdown Forest CEO and Conservators; our local charities including Rotherfield St Martin, Care for the Carers and Wealden Works in Heathfield; and the National Farmers’ Union and our fantastic local farmers.
It has been a busy year with lots of wonderful news and wins locally, but there is more to be done. Please be assured that I will continue to work hard in 2025 to campaign for more resources for Sussex Weald and to ensure that your concerns are heard in Westminster. This year, my office helped over 10,000 residents and I continue to hold weekly surgeries to provide advice and representation. If you need my assistance, please email me at nusrat.ghani.mp@parliament.uk or visit my website www.nusghani.org.uk for more information.
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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.
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
Wednesday 4th December 10am - 12 noon at Christchurch, Horebeech Lane, Horam.
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.
CROSSWAYS COFFEE MORNING
XMAS FOOD APPEAL 2024
Thank you to all our supporters, staff, and volunteers from all the animals in the care of the Kit Wilson Trust. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Wednesday 1st November 10am-12noon at Christchurch, Horebeech Lane, Horam.
EVERYONE WILL BE MADE WELCOME 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. We shall look forward to seeing you all.
Kindness WinsTrust
HEATHFIELD SILVER BAND
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
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 December
Christmas Market, Manor Barn, 4 De La Warr road, Sunday 1st, 11am – 3pm.
Ice Skating & Christmas market, Hastings Pier, from Sunday 1st, to book www.skiddle. com/whats-on/Hastings/Hastings-Pier/Ice-Skating-on-Hastings-Pier/40114000/
Brighton Art & Craft Fair, The Brighton Dome, Saturday 14th, 10am – 4pm.
Candlelit Carols, The De La Warr Pavilion, Sunday 15th, 3pm, to book www.dlwp.com/ event/candlelit-carols
East Dean Village Market Christmas Event, East Dean & Friston Village Hall, Saturday 21st, 10am – 3:30pm.
HORAM’S CHRISTMAS FUN
FROM 5.30 TO 8.00 PM
LATE NIGHT SHOPPPING
SANTA’S GROTTO
CHILDREN’S TREASURE HUNT
OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL, JOYFUL
AND TRIUMPHANT
The holidays aren’t always what the hallmark movies represent and often behind closed doors it’s a very different story. We grow up believing in fairy tales, and other myths and legends that keep dreams, family and society traditions alive. The holidays arrive when many are suffering from seasonal sadness and an increase in fatigue and feelings of exhaustion. Holiday trauma is a real thing and for some can bring up old trauma wounds, as the festive traditions, rituals, scents, grandmas gravy and the memorable Christmas tree decorations reappear. It can often feel overwhelming and be painful reminders of traumatic events or people. Despite its challenges Christmas can be made easier for everyone when we take time to understand the impact of trauma on enjoying the holidays.
For some these traumatic memories might still be subconscious, trauma does not always have to be remembered or cognitive. The body keeps score of everything that has happened to us and this is remembered in our nervous system. When the body says no we go into survival mode, but our system always, always gives us a signal to our safety. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this time of year, let go of the perfect Christmas. It can be a time of love and connection to others but this can be hard to achieve when those around us are not being heard, validated and respected.
Tips for managing your health at Christmas:
• Avoid unhelpful social comparisons
• Have realistic expectations about family gatherings
• Take a break
• Look after yourself
• Participate in your local community
• Don’t look back on past year
• Lean on your support system
• Get outside, connect with Mother Nature
• Get back into a routine
Know that you are not alone YOU are worthy and YOU are loved, those social media posts may not be all they appear to be.
With love and strength Michelle xxx
Michelle jane, hosts workshops helping companies boost company wellbeing and productivity, and works with clients 1:1, online or in person giving them tools to find their joy and purpose.
WINDOW CLEANING
GARDENING DIARY
‘When dark December glooms the day and takes our Autumn joys away’ Sir Walter Scott.
Well not a bit of it, these may be the sentiments of a gloomy Scot, mired in his arctic gloom, but we take heart from the month in which the sun is reborn and, though the worst rigors of winter are still ahead of us, there is the promise of rebirth ahead, once celebrated in the Roman saturnalia and the Germanic yuletide hunts, now personified by a girthful and jolly chap in a chimney.
As in November, the weather this month is rarely an incentive to be out there upside down in a border, but the garden is a relentless tyrant, which may only be tamed by seizing every chance to press on.
The edges of lawns may have been eroded away or died back from being smothered by overgrowth from the borders, lying leaves, or the depredations of children. The easiest way to make the edges good is to roll a length of turf along the edge and cut around it with a sharp knife, then roll it up, the outlined shape may now be excavated to an inch depth, the base broken down to a tilth and the new turf rolled back into place, a board to stand on will help bed the turf down, expelling any air; there should be no air pockets, especially under the edges.
New plantings should be checked from time to time as frost or wind may have loosened the roots, and loose plantings rarely survive; we must always have our mallet about our person to firm up any loose stakes.
Any brassicas in the vegetable plot should likewise be checked for firm footing; brassicas greatly resent any looseness around their feet.
Frost and gales in November will have seen to the last of the roses, thus we may reduce the top growth back a little and remove frosted flowers and hips, this will reduce wind resistance and present a more orderly appearance in the rose garden. This is not the main pruning, which may be done at the end of winter (Though many gardeners do this before Christmas).
The harvesting of brussels sprouts should be in full swing, starting from the bottom up and leaving the green tops until last. In the event of an ‘arctic blast ‘ being forecast, it may be worthwhile digging up some leeks and parsnips and heeling them into a trench so as to avoid having to harvest by hammer and bolster.
Sometime between Alamein Day and the ides of the month we may beg, borrow or otherwise purloin a number of twigs from some of the more forward of the trees and shrubs, including yellow flowering jasmine, willow, winter flowering viburnums, berberis, hawthorn, witch hazel and contorted hazel, these, when brought into a warm room and put in water should be in flower by Christmas, hinting at the rebirth and new life just
around the corner. The no-mans’ land behind the bonfire heap may supply teasels, whilst sea thistle and artichoke heads saved from last month will make for a fine Christmas display when spray-painted by the more responsible of the junior members in the family. The dried seed pods of honesty make a fine sight shivering in a vase on the piano.
Whilst the keen gardener will have been digging over the soil since Battle of Britain Day, it is not too late to keep up the digging when conditions allow. The more soil we can get exposed to the weather the better. Areas reserved for hardy annuals should be dug over as well, but unless the soil is very poor there is no need to dig in compost or manure as annuals flower best on poorer soil.
Now most of the leaves have dropped, we may appreciate nature’s architecture in the boughs and burls of the trees around us whilst also taking worried note of deciduous trees and shrubs that are starting to crowd over the lawns and borders, this encroachment eventually leads to a thin, mossy lawn and straggling shrubs straining for the dwindling light, in such cases we must be ruthless with the chain saw and loppers; Nature is constantly trying to crowd us out, thus in the time of the Egg kings the quality of a Saxon was measured by his willingness to strip to his badger pelt underwear in all weathers, and with halberd in hand, wage unceasing battle on the forest around him.
Trudi - Mothering Mojo
I’ve recently had a client come to me with a tricky issue. She is pregnant with her first baby and beyond excited about motherhood. Understandably she wants to do everything right and enjoy the experience. Hence why she has employed the best doula in town (that’s me, by the way!). We have booked in our antenatal session and I plan to be with her and her partner during the birth and for the first 3-6 months. Helping them learn to become parents.
Her issue is that she has told family she would like no visitors for the first 2 weeks at least. And it’s landed like she’s told them they are all banned from her life forever. She’s understandably upset and doesn’t quite know how to navigate between what she wants to do and what her family expects of her, when the new baby arrives.
I’ve written an article before on what family and friends can bring new parents, but here’s a few tips for the new parents themselves on how to get the ‘babymoon’ they deserve.
The first thing is to recognise that YOU are the most important person here. Your baby, your partner and you have every right to postnatal however you like. Boundaries can be set up with compassion. And it’s up to everyone else to honour them. It is a great parenting skill to learn as early as possible!
People want to be involved and are excited. And there is an excellent middle ground here that can be established. An American client of mine recently told me about something called a ‘Mealtrain’. You send around a document of dates and, if family and friends want to support you, they pick a date and a meal and bring that round when the time comes. The idea is that they drop the meal, take a peak at the baby and go.
I know some of us wince at the idea of a baby shower, but what a great way to get everyone together BEFORE the baby is born. If they only saw you last week they might feel better about leaving it a few weeks before coming again.
My favourite doula trick for the more persistent of visitors though, is to get the mum in to bed with her baby. No one feels comfortable hanging out in someone else’s private space. Furthermore, research shows mums and babies both benefit from skin-to-skin time together for weeks and so it’s science-approved!
Trudi Dawson is a doula, Infant Feeding Specialist and Holistic Sleep Coach. For postnatal support sessions get in touch via trudi@motheringmojo.com
Jumping Beans
Term-time: Thursdays 10.00am-11.30am (50p per morning)
Horebeech Lane
Horam TN21 0DT
A group for 0-3s and their carers LARGE and SMALL TOYS + SINGING REFRESHMENTS + FRIENDSHIP www.christchurchhoram.org
COMMERCIAL PREMISES TO RENT
Various ground floor and first floor units.
All with A1 and B1 permissions. Suitable office/retail/storage.
Secure location close to village centre.
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
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
Christmas is coming...
Christmas Services:
There is a great deal that surrounds Christmas these days that shrouds its real meaning.
John Betjamen, past poet laureate, wrote:
“Some ways indeed are very odd By which we hail the birth of God.”
And in his poem, ‘Advent 1955’, Betjamen uses rhyme with cutting humour to expose so much of what we call Christmas today, before finally focusing on the real reason for the season:
The time draws near - the birth of Christ. A present that cannot be priced Given two thousand years ago
Yet if God had not given so He still would be a distant stranger And not the baby in the manger.
The real reason for our celebration is that Christmas means God is no longer a stranger. Matthew’s gospel tells us that he was called “Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins”, and “Immanuel – which means, ‘God with us.’”
Both names contain astonishing claims which demand investigation.
So this year, amid all the festivities, why not take time to think about the Christ in Christmas.
Our services are listed here and we’d love you to join us.
We wish everyone in Horam and Vines Cross a very happy Christmas.
PJ Guy Vicar - Christ Church Horam
Keith Delves Horam Chapel
Sunday 8th December: 18.30 Carols & Readings by Candlelight - Christ Church
Sunday 15th December: 10.00 Together@10 Nativity - Christ Church 18.30 Carol Service - Horam Chapel Christmas Eve: 16.00 Christingle Service - Christ Church Christmas Day: 10.30 Christmas Day Family Services - Christ Church & Horam Chapel
WORLD WAR ONE LONG DISTANCE LOVE STORY
Abbreviated from the memoirs of Grace Hobden.
By Steve Ziegler
Soon after Mary & Jim found a home in Sutton, Surrey, Stirling Villa, Binhill Wood Road. World events intervened again, and soon both were crying farewell tears of seperation as Jim’s regiment had to report for embarkation from Southampton on the 14th July 1915, destination, Rouen, France.
With his experience of horses he took on the roll of ‘horse trainer’, but most of his time was spent helping the regimental vet care for wounded horses.
A smiling portrait of Jim taken in France betrays the real truth of his feelings. He became very distressed and greatly angered by the terrible injuries caused by warfare to such beautiful animals.
Along with his colleages they tried desperately to save as many as they could; many though could not be saved and he had to put a lot down with his pistol. These distessing images stayed with him all his life.
Jim in France, front row far right, July Relief from this imposed torture came in the most bizzarre fashion. On the 13th August 1915 his regiment came under heavy shelling. It was expected the Germans were about to make a sudden advance. The order was given to prepare for this. Jim and his comrades grabbed their rifles and made ready to go to their stations. There was a lot of nervous tension and in the ensuing excitement one of the men accidentally fired his rifle. Jim felt a sharp stabbing pain in his left upper shoulder and collapsed to the floor in agony. Help was called for and he was promptly placed on a stretcher and taken to the nearest field hospital for emergency treatment, before being transferred to 26 General Hospital, Etaples in the Pas-De-Calais. Back home in Surrey, Mary and Jim’s family at Warbleton Priory in Sussex, were relived to hear via telegram that he was not seriously injured
Jim was at Etaples hospital from the 15th August to the 31st August. He continued to complain of pains to the side of his wound and to the back of his head. It was then suspected he had shrapnel fragments embedded in his shoulder, which would require further investigation and an operation. On the 31st August he was transferred briefly back to England before travelling to a hospital in Kilkenny, Ireland, for an operation and time to convalescence. Jim’s part in the war was over, and he eventually spent thirty four months in Ireland.
Mary had hoped they would meet up again however brief, but it was not to be, she had been advised it was too dangerous to travel. They had to wait until 1918 before being re-united at last.
Jim around 1911, paying a visit to the family at Warbleton Priory, where they had moved to in 1906. Showing off his brand-new bicycle.
This photograph was taken at Warbleton Priory after the war when Jim and some of his brothers that had served in the army had all returned safely. Sadly, William and Alfred were to both die in 1925 as a consequence of the war, William as a result of gas poisoning and Alfred T.B. From back left to right: David, R.F.A ‘Sussex Territorials.’ Bert, R.F.A.. Arthur, Royal Sussex. Front left to right: William, Royal Sussex. ‘Jim’, 2nd King Edwards Horse Regiment. Alfred, R.F.A.. Jim and Mary eventually returned to Sussex, he found employment as Chauffeur/gardener with the Hassle family at Tanners Manor, between Horeham (Horam) and Waldron; living in the Lodge House.
Jim and Mary (marked with an X), hay making at Tanners Manor, mid 1920’s. Mary was not a great lover of country life, however, the family spent many happy years at Tanners Manor, before moving to Polegate in the 1950’s.
At first Jim looked after Mr Hassle’s carriage horses and later learnt to drive Mr Hassle’s new car after deciding to enter the modern age. They were to have two children, Dennis and Margaret.
Jim on left with two comrades.
Photograph of Jim with Mary inset.
Jim front row, fourth from left; with nursing staff at Kilkenny Ireland.
Join us for a festive evening with The Heathfield Silver Band & The Horam Church Carol Singers, at The Brewers Arms.
Featuring our Christmas Raffle, Your Chance to win a Personal Chef Experience – And seasonal drinks & snacks.
Let’s make Vines Cross Christmas 2024 a merry one. We look forward to welcoming you all!
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DISPLAY
Christmas is such a Happy time. A time to Rejoice and be of good cheer.
It’s a time for visiting light displays, So come and see
The one at Woodley this year. There’ll be More of a show than ever, to be sure!
And it’s all for Alzheimers (just like before.)
So gather together lots of money.
Tell your friends and relations too, I’ts for such a very good cause, so Make the
Effort, please do.
Find the display at Woodley, Little London Road, Horam, TN21 0BL, from 4:30pm - 9:30pm every evening starting on the 1st December to 2nd January.
Horam WI
We meet on the First Tuesday of every month 2pm - 4pm at West End, Christchurch, Horebeech Lane, Horam
Everyone at Horam WI wishes you all A Very Happy Christmas Ladies, come and join in the fun at our December meeting when we’ll be
“In The Christmas Spirit”
With music and entertainment provided by The Tilsmore Duo
There will also be plenty of time for that important cuppa and chat!
