Inside Highdown, Issue 12, May 2025

MAY 2025 ISSUE 12

HIGHDOWN

COVERING FERRING, CLAPHAM AND PATCHING

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

MATILDA ON

DOMLUCA COFFEE GIVE AWAY

IT’S WEIRD THAT

“ADOLESCENCE”

ON P19

MEN ARE SO NAKED SWIMMING

CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING ● Removes deep down soiling, pet dander and pollutants. ● Save a fortune on buying new...

Guaranteed! ● Carpets are usable as I leave. ● Natural solutions used, so no residue left.

● FREE stain & deodorising treatment. ● Save a fortune on buying new! ● The best and most powerful equipment used. ● The same excellent results on upholstery, leather, lino and Karndean flooring.

Call Ben TODAY for a FREE Quote and advice

01903 774959 or 07969 026589 www.checkatrade.com/bendaniels with over 1,600 reviews with an average of 9.93

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL HANDYMAN

Affordable Impact:

• General Repairs & Maintenance • Hanging Pictures & Mirrors • Furniture Assembly • Flooring & Tiling • Painting & Decorating • Carpentry and much more...

Advertise Smart, Grow Strong!

This advert is just

£95 plus VAT

0800 1114664 • hireahubby.com

2

PLEASE MENTION INSIDE PUBLICATIONS WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

BUILDING & ROOFING LTD

CALL THE TEAM NOW FOR YOUR FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE 10% OFF WITH THIS ADVERT FIND & REPAIR LEAKS from £150.00 - REPOINTING CHIMNEYS from £275.00 MOSS REMOVAL & MOT from £295.00 - VALLEY, GABLE & RIDGE REPOINTING from £375.00 SPRAY FOAM REMOVAL from £995.00 At Admiral Building & Roofing Ltd, we take pride in providing top-quality roofing solutions tailored to your needs. Our services include Roof , Fascias, Guttering, , Chimney Repairs, and Spray Foam Removal.

Repairs, Flat Roofs, New Roof Installations,

SPRAY FOAM REMOVAL

Homeowners may need to remove spray foam insulation for several reasons. A primary concern is condensation buildup, which can lead to mould growth and weakened roof timbers and other structural elements. Improper installation can also reduce thermal efficiency, making removal necessary. Other common reasons include upgrading to a different insulation type, creating space for new installations, addressing pest infestations, or meeting mortgage lender requirements, as some lenders may decline mortgages due to spray foam insulation.

MOSS CLEANING & REMOVAL

Admiral’s team is fully trained, insured, and experienced in delivering top-quality roof cleaning services.

We adhere to the highest industry standards and won’t leave your property until you’re completely satisfied with the results.

Customer service is at the heart of everything we do, and we take pride in our strong track record of customer satisfaction.

EXPERT ROOFING SOLUTIONS ACROSS SUSSEX

PITCHED ROOFING - FLAT ROOFING - TILING & SLATE ROOFS - UPVC ROOFING & CLADDING SKYLIGHTS & VELUX WINDOWS - CHIMNEY STACK REPAIRS & REPLACEMENT MOSS CLEANING & REMOVAL - SPRAY FOAM REMOVAL

Contact us for a FREE estimate

Tel: 01903 910013

SCAN ME

Email: info@admiralroofingsussex.co.uk - www.admiralroofingsussex.co.uk

Admiral - East Sussex News Advert 266mm x 336mm (Mar 2025).indd 1

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

19/03/2025 16:06:36

CONTENTS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 3 Welcome Ah, May—a fine month indeed! With beautiful weather and the promise of long summer evenings ahead, it’s wonderful to see colour bursting back into our cherished natural surroundings.

As you’ve probably noticed, I’ve updated my image (many thanks to Russ Iden for that). It feels more true to me now, as I’ve left the shorter hair behind. Though I must say, the sidelong glance does give me a slightly shifty look!

This month’s issue is another great read, thanks to our brilliant bunch of contributors. I’ve managed to avoid writing anything myself again this month, but what I really love is providing a platform for our community and local businesses.

It’s been amazing to see the difference INSIDE Community makes. And to everyone of the Month who shares kind words— Goring it’s truly appreciated.

Thank you!.

Keep in touch Liana :)

TREE FESTIVAL 2025: Bigger, greener and ready to inspire! ��������������������������4 TURNING TIDES: Worthing Golf Course support local charity – Turning Tides ����������������������������������������4 GRAEME’S HEALTH CHECK �������������������������������������� 5 @WORTHINGETHNOGRAPHIC It’s weird that men are so naked in swimming ��������� 6 WADARS ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 7 HEALTH AND WELLBEING Get moving! �������������������������������������������������������������������8 COMMUNITY ���������������������������������������������������������������� 9 WORTHING AND ADUR SWIFT GROUP �������������10 HIGHDOWN HILLWALKING �����������������������������������11 CROSSWORD ��������������������������������������������������������������12 BILLY AND BEYOND ��������������������������������������������������12 FA:ST Adolescence and the crisis facing young women ��������������������������������������������������������������������������14 Learning a better way:a practical guide ����������������15 COLONNADE HOUSE �����������������������������������������������15 DAD’S, SUMS AND DRUMS How a dad-led project turned Worthing into a maths music revolution �������������������������������������������16 THE REAL REPAIR SHOP Part two: Home coffee making ����������������������������������18 #LETSSUSITOUT ������������������������������������������������������ 20 LOCAL HISTORY The nature of witchcraft ������������������������������������������������22 NEW MUSIC REVIEW ����������������������������������������������� 24 LIVE LISTINGS ������������������������������������������������������������25 EVENTS �������������������������������������������������������������������������26 SPORTS �������������������������������������������������������������������������28 FEEDBACK ������������������������������������������������������������������� 30 ADVERTISER DIRECTORY �������������������������������������� 30 NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME �������������������������������31

FOR ENQUIRIES Call 01903 357003 or email Publisher - liana@insidepublications.ltd feedback@insidepublications.ltd events@insidepublications.ltd www.insidepublications.ltd Booking deadline for advertising is the 5th of the month prior to the month of print.

To secure your spot in our upcoming issue or to discuss tailored advertising solutions, reach out to our dedicated team.

For any distribution enquiries or feedback distribution@insidepublications.ltd Founder & Editor - Liana Naylor Designer - Andy Beavis Illustrator - Russ Iden CONTRIBUTORS Bryan Turner MRPharmS | Caroline Osella | Simon Rigler | Chris Hare | Henry Parish | Matilda Cutting | Beth Sarah | Arty Mikey Matt Marchant | Tanwen Morgan | Frankie Hernandez-Kay Delivered free to your homes. Copyright Inside Magazines 2025.

Inside Magazines cannot be held responsible for the claims and accuracy of adverts or editorial content, or the effects of those claims. All dates and details are believed to be correct at time of going to press. No responsibility can be taken for subsequent changes.

You can join INSIDE on social media @InsideMagazines @insidemagazines

@InsideCommunityMagazines @insidemagazines

Please recycle this Newspaper when you have finished with it.

Haviland House

A dedicated dementia care home with expert nursing care.

“I feel that Mum could not be in better hands or in a better place.”

– Daughter of Resident

4 weeks for the price of 3

on respite stays* Limited availability Call today!

Haviland House is a purpose-built dementia care home in Goring-by-Sea, near Worthing. Our home is thoughtfully designed into five households, each tailored to a specific stage of dementia, featuring en-suite bedrooms, lounges, and dining areas, creating a warm space where residents and their loved ones feel welcome. Residents enjoy engaging activities, secure gardens and nutritious meals, ensuring comfort, care and quality of life.

• Dedicated dementia care in a purpose-built home

• A forever home, offering stability,and peace of mind

• 24/7 nursing care as standard

• Designed across five households, each suited to a particular stage of dementia

• Expert, person-centred support tailored to every need

Get in touch with our friendly team Call 01903 327327 Haviland House, Goring-by-Sea www.guildcare.org/haviland-house *Terms & Conditions apply. Offer available at Haviland House.

Guild Care is a registered charity, number 1044658.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

4

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE

Tree Festival 2025: bigger, greener and ready to inspire!

A

fter a fantastic launch in Brighton & Hove last year, Tree Festival 2025 is back - bigger, better and reaching further than ever before.

Originally, just three volunteers, inspired by London’s 2023 Urban Tree Festival, which brought city dwellers closer to nature through walks, talks and storytelling, the festival here, in Sussex, has now grown to celebrate trees across the entire Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere.

This expansion means more events, more communities involved and even more opportunities to connect with the trees that shape our landscapes, clean our air and support biodiversity.

A FESTIVAL WITH A PURPOSE Nature is under immense pressure - from habitat loss to climate change - and trees are a vital part of the solution. They store carbon, prevent flooding, cool our towns and cities and provide homes for wildlife. The Tree Festival is not just about admiring trees; it’s about understanding their importance, taking action to protect them and joining a growing movement to restore and nurture the natural world.

Across Sussex, local groups, volunteers, and organisations are coming together to share their love for trees through a packed programme of

events running from late April through summer, with two main festival weekends on June 14-15 and June 21-22. Whether you love woodland walks, storytelling, art, music, hands-on conservation, or thought-provoking talks, there’s something for everyone.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS The festival kicks off with the Branch Out Conference in Shoreham on June 14, featuring Susan Raikes, Director of Wakehurst and an exciting panel of experts. This inspiring event will bring together nature lovers, professionals and community members to explore how we can all plant, protect and care for trees across Sussex. It will set the tone for the weeks ahead, encouraging people to get involved in tree planting, conservation and local green initiatives.

Throughout the festival, guided tree trails will lead visitors through some of Sussex’s most beautiful green spaces, while family-friendly activities will inspire children to discover the magic of trees.

The “I love this tree because…” photography competition invites people to share personal stories about trees that hold special meaning to them, creating a collective celebration of the trees that shape our lives.

EXPLORING THE LIVING COAST The expansion into The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere makes this year’s festival extra special.

Stretching from the South Downs to the sea, this internationally recognised area is home to ancient woodlands, chalk grasslands, and vital marine habitats. It’s a place where people and nature come together, making it the perfect setting to reflect on how trees connect us all.

WHY TREES MATTER MORE THAN EVER The biodiversity crisis is one of the biggest challenges of our time, with wildlife disappearing at alarming rates and climate change disrupting ecosystems. But trees offer hope. They provide essential habitats, reduce air pollution, and help combat rising temperatures. Protecting and planting trees is a simple yet powerful way to make a difference.

Tree Festival 2025 is more than just a celebration—it’s a call to action. With the support of CPRE Sussex, Connick Tree Care and Rampion Offshore Wind, the festival encourages everyone to reconnect with nature, learn how to protect local trees and take steps toward a greener future.

Let’s celebrate, learn and take action - because when we look after trees, we look after the future.

For the full programme and to get involved, visit cpresussex.org.uk/tree-festival.

Worthing Gold Course Support Local Charity – Turning Tides

W

They were shown around and met some of the clients who were taking part in the regular art sessions and doing some glass art. They learnt how much Turning Tides do; providing clothing, breakfast and advice to help people to get back on their feet again. Caroline says, “I think the other thing that struck me was that, at the time, they could only keep the Hub open for a few hours each day. And, as we know, we had some shocking weather with rain and wind for most of early last year.” In March this year, the Captains proudly handed over a cheque for £28,105.00. The images show two of the year’s events. Captains’ Day in September saw lady golfers from over 50 clubs, some from as far away as Troon and Saffron Walden, raise £2,000 through a raffle.

A fashion show with ladies modelling the latest summer golfing attire raised £300 in just an hour.

Community Fundraiser Sue Harris said, “We can’t thank Caroline and Jez enough for choosing Turning Tides as their charity. Their generous support and commitment to helping those in need truly show the power of community and compassion. The incredible amount they’ve raised will make a real difference - and quite honestly, it will save lives. We couldn’t do this without them.”

hen Caroline Peat and Jez Coates stepped into their roles as Ladies’ and Men’s Captains of Worthing Golf Course, they knew that they needed to choose a charity to support for the year. Inspired by the knowledge that people were sleeping rough in the wooded areas around the golf course, local charity Turning Tides was the obvious choice.

Turning Tides is a charity based in Worthing and dedicated to ending homelessness in the local community. Founded in 1991, it has grown to become one of the largest providers of services for single homeless individuals in the area. The charity offers a wide range of support, including outreach programs, residential projects, mental health services, and “move-on” housing to help people transition to independent living.

Turning Tides emphasises compassion and collaboration, working closely with local organisations and individuals to transform lives and change perceptions of homelessness. Their approach is person-centered, empowering clients to rebuild their confidence and create brighter futures.

Caroline and Jez visited the Hub in Worthing just as they came into their Captaincy year.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

5

ADVERTORIAL

Quickslide UPVC Vertical Sliding Sash Windows: A Modern Take on a Timeless Classic

Q

uickslide’s UPVC Vertical Sliding Sash Windows are the perfect blend of heritage style and modern innovation. Designed to replicate the timeless elegance of traditional timber sash windows, they offer the classic charm loved by period property enthusiasts—without the maintenance headaches of wood.

Crafted with precision and care, these windows retain authentic features like run-through sash horns, deep bottom rails, and Georgian bar options, yet are built with energyefficient, low-maintenance UPVC. This means homeowners can enjoy the beauty of traditional design with the benefits of modern performance: excellent thermal efficiency, sound insulation, and security.

Quickslide’s commitment to quality is evident in every detail. From smooth sliding mechanisms to a

range of heritage-inspired finishes, these windows are fully customizable to suit both conservation areas and contemporary homes alike. The inclusion of tilt functionality makes cleaning effortless—ideal for upper floors and busy households.

Not only do they elevate the look of any property, but Quickslide’s sash windows also represent longterm value. Their A-rated energy performance can help reduce heating bills, while robust construction ensures years of hassle-free operation.

Whether you’re restoring a Victorian townhouse or adding character to a new build, Quickslide’s UPVC Vertical Sliding Sash Windows are a smart, stylish solution. Combining traditional aesthetics with 21st-century benefits, they are an investment in both beauty and practicality—perfect for those who refuse to compromise.

Tel: 01903 202020 Email: sales@tridentwindowsanddoors.co.uk Web: www.tridentwindowsanddoors.co.uk

193 South Farm Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 7TW

Trident Windows - Quality you can trust n SERVICE

n QUALITY

n CHOICE

Excellent service that matches your significant investment.

Only the highest standard products and workmanship.

Extensive range of styles, designs and colours. Choose the look/feel you really want.

FENSA registered, Guarantee underwritten by the Consumer Protection Association.

Google Review 4.9 out of

★★★★★

� 01903 202020 � sales@tridentwindowsanddoors.co.uk � www.tridentwindowsanddoors.co.uk

“I do credit the health check with saving me from any number of future health complications and potentially saving my life!”

D

id you know that if you are aged between 40 to 74 and have no preexisting medical conditions you are eligible for a free NHS health check.

These checks can tell if you are at higher risk of getting certain health problems, such as: • • • •

Heart Disease Diabetes Kidney disease Stroke

When the WSCC Prevention Assessment Team began running free NHS Health Checks within West Sussex, Graeme, a Senior Library Assistant in Littlehampton arranged an appointment.

“When West Sussex Libraries became a venue to host NHS health checks, staff were given first opportunity to experience this invaluable service. As a man of a certain age, albeit with, to my knowledge, no existing health conditions, I decided I had nothing to lose and duly arranged an appointment.

I found the whole process to be friendly, professional and reassuring.

It was discovered that my blood pressure was a little high and it appeared I had an irregular heartbeat. The nurse suspected atrial fibrillation and

made a referral for me.

I was very quickly seen by my doctor and referred on for further investigations. I was consequently diagnosed with Left Ventricular Failure which is now managed with medications.

I was told that, because my heart wasn’t pumping correctly, I had been at increasing risk of suffering a stroke, the longer my condition remained undiagnosed.

I do credit the health check with saving me from any number of future health complications and potentially saving my life! I would recommend that anyone eligible arranges to have one.

I must also stress that I had no inkling I had a chronic heart condition as there were simply no indicators, no pain or discomfort, no breathlessness or anything that had any negative impact on my day-to-day life or health. The only awareness I had was an occasional fluttering, as though a bird were trapped in my chest, and an odd palpitation here and there, but I just put these down to the stresses and strains of life, nothing to be alarmed about.

So, even if you have no symptoms, I would still recommend having a check!

The Prevention Assessment Team are carrying out these clinics across West Sussex. To discuss eligibility and book an appointment please call 0330 222 6 999

For more information on NHS health checks, visit the NHS website on https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-health-check/ For more information on the Prevention Assessment Team please visit Prevention Assessment Team

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

6

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ @WORTHINGETHNOGRAPHIC

“It’s weird that men are so naked in swimming”

Sun’s out - beach time!

“You gonna do some sea swims again this year?”

“Not sure. Remember how I got bronchitis last year?”

cause pathophysiological responses such as vasoconstriction in the respiratory tract mucosa and suppression of immune responses, which are responsible for increased susceptibility to infections”. *

Caroline Osella

“Regarding respiratory tract infection, Dr Mark Harper, author of Chill, has started some clinical research. He has some evidence that moderate exposure to cold water reduces the incidence of respiratory infections, but once swimmers go beyond 15 mins in cold water, they increase their risk. You get all the benefits with fewer risks if you keep your dips short. Being in the water in a top doesn’t matter too much, it’s wearing a wet top afterwards that’s the problem”.

Right. So a quick dip is ok - but we need to warm up and dry off fast afterwards.

Reporting back to the group, discussions continue.

Blimey.

“Oof, yeah, that was horrible - went on for ages, didn’t it?”

“Mmmm. Messed up the whole of July. I can absolutely track when I started to feel grotty: it was that day when I went for a sea swim and then stayed on the beach for an hour in a wet top. I could feel the cold and damp on my chest, it was so uncomfortable”.

“Yeah, those ‘quick dry’ fabrics really aren’t so quick, are they?”

“Na. I remember getting a towel and shoving it under my swim top, drying myself - but then, of course, I put the top back down and just got my chest wet and cold again. Horrible feeling. I’m not getting ill again - can’t afford a month out with chest trouble”.

Hmm. Isn’t all this a myth? Hasn’t it been dinned into us all that viruses and bacteria cause chest infections you can’t actually catch a cold from damp and cold, can you?

A quick dig into medical research literature tells me that - maybe you can.

“Cooling of the body surface and cold stress, induced by lowering the core body temperature,

And, “Getting ‘chilled’ after sitting around in wet clothes … seems to worsen pulmonary immune defenses (probably related to ciliary clearance or anti-adhesin activity.)** Top-free bathing was common in the 70s, but seems to have rolled back; you have to be pretty brave these days to do it. (Unless you’re a man, of course).

I go to talk to an expert - lifelong daily swimmer, channel swimmer and open water coach.

“No sunbathing after a swim, then, unless you’re topless”.

“Don’t say ‘topless’ - that sexualises it”.

“Yeah, I mean men’s chests and nipples are out and a lot of them have bigger boobs than I do!”

“And chest hair! Why isn’t that seen as sexual and supposed to be kept covered up?”

“We really need to stop seeing breasts as always sexual. They’re just body parts, like buttocks or bellies”.

She tells me, “Free the nipple!”

“I personally don’t like swimming without a top - I have never skinny-dipped even in my own pool! But you’re right, keeping wet clothing on increases the risk of hypothermia dramatically. As a sea swimming coach, I recommend my swimmers take off their wet costumes as soon as possible and get into dry clothes. In cold weather or on exiting cold water, they should then put on layers of warm clothing. It’s better to be naked under a coat or dry robe, than to put a robe on over a wet costume”.

Dry Robes aren’t simply a fashion fad, then; and the beach sauna is both pleasure and healthy. I ask coach about bronchitis - any research? She tells me -

“For trans and enby people, social expectations about chests? Extra layer of anxiety! It would all be easier if we were grown-up about it and just accepted all chests and all nipples”.

“This is why I drive all the way to Shoreham or Brighton, to one of the naturist beaches. This insistence on a scrap of cloth that makes you cold and damp - maybe even ill - is ridiculous”.

I’m giving the last word to the swim coach: “It is weird that men are so naked in swimming and women aren’t! I’d rather the men covered up!”

* Dr E. G. Mourtzoukou peer-reviewed article, ‘Exposure to cold and respiratory tract infections’. https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/iuatld/ijtld/2007/00000011/00000009/art00002 ** Edna Pytlak, MD, writing about bronchitis. https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/home-remedies-bronchitis-maybe-your-mother-was-right Caroline Osella writes @ Rewilded Anthropologist - https://carolineosella.substack.com/

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

WADARS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 7

OUTSTANDING QUALITY. COMPETITIVE PRICES. EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE.

OUTSTANDING QUALITY. COMPETITIVE PRICES. EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Transform Your Space with Burgess Flooring & Blinds – Now Featuring Bloc Blinds!

A 10% DISCOUNT

01903 520 479

when you mention

10% DISCOUNT 2 Manor Parade, Salvington Road when you mention Worthing BN13 2JP

INSIDE

Inside Magazine

EXCLUDES ACCESSORIES & FITTING

EXCLUDES ACCESSORIES & FITTING

01903 520 479

t Burgess Flooring & Blinds, we’re always looking for ways to bring you the very best in home design. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with Bloc Blinds, a leading innovator in window blind solutions. Known for their sleek designs and superior functionality, Bloc Blinds are the perfect addition to our already extensive range of made to measure blinds. Bloc Blinds offer a contemporary edge with there designs, ensuring a seamless fit for any window. Whether you’re looking for blackout blinds to enhance sleep quality, thermal blinds to improve energy efficiency, or stylish roller blinds to complement your décor, Bloc Blinds have you covered. Their products are designed for easy installation and

maintenance, making them a hasslefree choice for modern living. In addition to Bloc Blinds, we continue to stock Decora Blinds, featuring unique fabrics from The Fabric Box. From bold patterns to subtle textures, Decora Blinds provide endless options to suit your style. At Burgess Flooring & Blinds, we pride ourselves on offering tailored solutions for every customer. Our expert team is here to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you find blinds that not only look stunning but also meet your practical needs.

Visit our showroom today to explore the latest collections from Bloc Blinds and Decora Blinds. Let us help you transform your home with blinds that combine style, innovation, and quality. Book your free consultation online or contact us at 01903 520 479.

Contact: 01903 520479 Website: www.burgessflooring.co.uk Showroom: 2 Manor Parade, Worthing, West Sussex, BN13 2JP

2 Manor Parade, Salvington Road Worthing BN13 2JP

Residents with concerns about sick or injured wildlife are urged to contact Wadars Animal Rescue

F

erring-based Wadars Animal Rescue has been working in the local community for over 55 years, and in addition to its animal rehoming work, answers thousands of calls every year from members of the public who are concerned about sick and injured wildlife.

Initial calls to the wildlife helpline are triaged by a team of staff and volunteers who take dozens of calls every week from people reporting a wide range of wildlife concerns. Those concerns can range from foxes suffering from mange to a hedgehog being out during the day, or a bird stuck in someone’s chimney.

Where appropriate the helpline team offers initial advice to the caller about what is the best thing to do for the individual casualty. In more complicated situations a member of the Wadars Animal

Welfare Team will head out to assess the case.

During last year Wadars Animal Rescue Officers attended more than 1,200 callouts which included 163 foxes; 433 herring gulls; 331 pigeons; 47 ducks; 64 hedgehogs; more than a dozen birds of prey; and 19 swans.

Wadars Animal Rescue Officer, Billy Elliot, said; “We are fast approaching our busiest time of the year for wildlife rescues. We refer to it as ‘Silly Season’ and a typical day can involve going out to a dozen separate rescues.”

After rescuing the casualty, Wadars works closely with local vets and wildlife rehabilitation centres to arrange the best treatment, and where necessary, ongoing care for the casualty. At the end of the process Wadars will assist with release of the casualty back into the wild.

If you are concerned about sick, injured or orphaned wildlife in your area contact Wadars on 01903 247111.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

8

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Get Moving!

I

t is widely reported that one of the biggest systemic problems in the NHS is bed-blocking, meaning clinically well patients are staying in hospital well beyond the time that they need to.

Better social care is the intractable answer to that, but what is less widely understood is that the extended stay in hospital is very often bad for that patient. Any extended stay in hospital will take a toll on anyone, but the older you are the worse that gets.

Medics work on the maxim that if an 80 year old spends ten days in a hospital bed, then they will physically age by ten years!

That patient is almost certainly frailer and weaker than they were before they went into hospital, and less likely to be able to look after themselves. This can become a huge burden for families and the social care services.

This is known as de-conditioning, and it can affect anyone but it is most pronounced and troublesome from middle age onwards. We all start to loose muscle mass from about the age of 40 and this accelerates as we age.

Rehabilitation is the NHS answer to this, but some forward thinking medics are now recommending that patients who have a planned stay in hospital coming up prepare themselves physically with exercise to speed recovery afterwards.

Bryan Turner MRPharmS

They are calling this “pre-hab”. If you are stuck on a long waiting list, perhaps for a knee or hip op, why not use that time wisely to ensure that you are in the best possible shape before you are admitted?

The theory is that you can reduce deconditioning and speed up recovery.

Of course, patients who are physically ill and/or experiencing mobility problems will be limited in what they can do. But the good news is that good progress can be made with simple exercises that you can do at home, you don’t need a gym!

Not all exercises are for everyone when there are health limitations, but everything helps if you can do it.

Firstly, you just need to get moving. If you have been avoiding walking, then try to do this every day. Twenty minutes is a good amount to aim for, and this could just involve walking to the shops or park, or walking the dog.

Exercises that work the thigh and buttock muscles are great if you are waiting for an op on your knee or hip.

Squats are well known to gym goers, but don’t let this put you off. There are easy variants you can do at home. All you need to do is sit on a chair, and stand up without using your hands. Repeat 10 times, and take a rest then do it again. If you are able, try it without a chair. Stand

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

up with your feet shoulder width apart.

Bend your knees as far as is comfortable, and then stand back up. Do repeats of 10 if you can. If you feel unbalanced, hold onto a counter top to steady yourself. Don’t push yourself too far if you experience pain or balance problems.

Counter tops are also a good place to get going with easy press ups. Stand slightly away from the top, place both hands on the top and lean in then push away. This is good for upper body strength. As you get stronger, you can move your feet further back and lean in more, but always be careful of your balance.

Good nutrition is also important for recovery. So, eating well in the weeks before an operation is beneficial. A varied diet of fresh foods will boost your recovery time, avoid ultra-processed foods, and cut back on alcohol. If you are one of the minority who smoke, you should try to reduce or stop, even though this is a time of worry.

Getting ready for a stay in hospital by doing this kind of pre-hab will get you back out and home again, quicker and healthier and also, hopefully, without the need to rely on the stretched social care services.

COMMUNITY INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪

THE GORING AND ILEX CONSERVATION GROUP Conserving the beauty and present character of Ilex Avenue, the trees in Sea Lane and Goring Gap. GROUP AGM We are pleased that Tony Pratt of the Wey & Arun Canal Trust has offered to be our speaker for the evening on Thursday, September 18 at Bury Drive Church Hall.

GORING GAP We were delighted to learn from the Planning Inspectorate, that the appeal

by Persimmon regarding their proposals for 475 dwellings at Chatsmore Farm (Goring Gap) has been refused by Planning Inspector Yvonne Wright who writes - “I conclude that the appeal proposal conflicts with the development plan when read as a whole. Whilst there would be some benefits to the scheme to which I have afforded weight, these material considerations, when taken together, do not indicate that the appeal should be determined other than in accordance with the development plan. I therefore dismiss this appeal.”

The Planning Inspector also notes that the proposals would adversely erode the Local Green Gap with the resultant substantial harm carrying substantial weight against the proposals. There would be substantial harm to the character and appearance of the local landscape, and she also affords great weight to the moderate to modest harm to the South Downs National Park over the lifetime of the development.

In time we may see further proposals from Persimmon but the Inspector’s findings reflect the Gap’s worth and strengthen its’ protection against such substantial development.

On a less favourable note, we see that Horsham Magistrates Court have granted an alcohol licence to Goring Gap Limited for the portion of the Gap owned by Mr Dixon. However, this, at present, can only be used for 28 days per calendar year as there is no planning permission in place for the business to operate. These days do not need to be consecutive. We wait to see how this will operate and affect the Gap.

May update There is a key quote in the film “Field of Dreams”, when Kevin Costner’s character is told “if you build it, he will come”. This was the thought Founded 1944 that came back to me when I was asked to be Social Sec last year!

We have planned quarterly events for 2025, which I hope are varied, interesting and fun. So, I was delighted that we had over a 100 people present for our first event in March this year; a picture presentation by Ian Richardson entitled “Goring-by-Sea, nooks and crannies.” After speaking to various residents after the meeting, people found it fun and informative.

Our next event will keep up the fun element as we hold a Race Night on June 19, again at St Mary’s Church Hall, Ilex Way. Doors open from 7:45pm with the first race at 8:00pm with a fish

9

TRAVELLERS As the weather improves, we have seen the first of our annual visitors on the Greensward and the barriered roads opposite. We advise our residents not to offer work following an unsolicited knock at the door. If the work dries up so will our visitors.

THE PLANTATION AND ILEX AVENUE We have had as many as 22 volunteers at our recent sessions, including one three-year-old who was very happy to look after the new trees. We were grateful to receive a mound of woodchip which was spread over one of the well-used side pathways which had remained very muddy. All the 50 trees we received in January from the The Conservation Volunteers which included Silver Birch; Green Beech; English Oak; Common Alder and Hornbeam have now been planted. Brambles and undergrowth from around many of the newly planted trees have been cleared also a side pathway which had become lost under the encroaching Brambles and other spreading plants. As always, we continue to remove some of the ever-present litter.

Our tasks over the coming months will include - cutting back Brambles along the main pathway and also the many inner paths (using hand tools and being careful to avoid any nesting birds); cleaning and repairing our various tools; and removing litter.

Whilst many of our volunteers work diligently in the Plantation, there are other duties to perform including organising/planning the monthly sessions; updating our notice board; keeping the container tidy and the tools clean and maintained. We also need suitably trained first aiders to be present at each session.

Our two-hour sessions are usually held on the second Saturday of each month, meeting off Amberley Drive at the sports field at 10:00am. The next sessions are May 10, June 14 and July 12. However, do please check our website for details of any late changes.

New and past volunteers are always welcome, and there are tasks to suite all abilities. Whilst gloves and all equipment are provided, we appreciate that many individuals prefer to bring their own gloves (and even prefer to use their own secateurs) which is absolutely fine. We do however request that you wear suitable clothing and footwear. Neither shorts, nor short sleeves, are suitable due to the ever-present Brambles. We take a short break at 11:00am for refreshments. We provide coffee, tea, biscuits and very often home-made cake (provided by our regular volunteers).

Further information can be found on the notice board at the Plantation The website is: www.ilex-conservation-group.co.uk and our e-mail address is: ilex.conservation.info@gmail.com For more information, please contact our Secretary, Bob Niall Tel: 01903 246118

and chip supper and licensed bar to make a great evening in aid of St Barnabas. Cash or card payment are acceptable for the bar and horse auctions! Cash only for betting and raffle.

Tickets price: Members £12; Non members £14.

Tickets are selling well so please contact me either on socialsec@goringresidents.org.uk or on 07790 480356.

Alternatively pay on line https://buy.stripe.com/14k3cZctz4RM3wAaEE if you are a member.

Or https://buy.stripe.com/bIY3cZbpvdoiebe3cd if you are a non-member.

The historical themes of our first event will be maintained with a talk on the historical Hampton Court after our AGM on September 25, by historian and curator, Sarah Parker.

Then, for Christmas we are planning a GRA

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

Christmas lunch for all members at a local restaurant on the December 18. Further details to follow nearer the time!

To join us is easy with fees kept low at £2 membership for individuals or £4 maximum for everyone in your home in Goring.

Visit goringresidents.org.uk for more details. The membership fee supports the work of the Association and its ability to maintain, improve and protect the amenities of Goring as well as our website. Profits from our events are donated to local charities. For existing members, renewals can now be made online via our website. We would urge you to renew prior to the start of the new subscription year on June 1. After this, our network of Road Wardens, to whom we are forever grateful, will start their collection rounds for those not online. New members are always welcome to join us at any time. Thanks for reading this and hope to see you at our events.

by GRA Social Secretary David Wynn-Davies

10

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE WORTHING AND ADUR SWIFT GROUP

Worthing and Adur Swift Group

M

ay is the month when swifts arrive back in numbers in the UK. Many of us welcome these little birds as one of the most evocative sights of high summer, wheeling through blue skies high above, and making their “squee! squee!” screaming calls.

Sadly, this evocative experience is becoming rarer and rarer in the UK, as the swift population declines at an alarming pace. Numbers have halved since 1995.

Happily, though, there steps we can all take to do something about it, with a little knowledge, appreciation and care. Now swift lovers have set up a Worthing group to do exactly that, to try to preserve these birds in our town.

With their scythe-shaped wings and fantastic flying skills, swifts are astonishing birds in so many ways – they have one of the longest migrations, from southern Africa, the shortest stay in the UK, here only three or four months of the year, and they almost never land. When a fledgling leaves its nest, that’s the last time it touches anything solid for four years.

Their tiny feet are unable to perch. They feed, sleep and even mate on the wing.

There is another amazing and underappreciated fact about swifts.

They rely on humans, and specifically our buildings, for their nest sites. For millennia swifts have almost exclusively chosen to live alongside us, often unnoticed, in crevices in walls or under the eaves of our homes. Unlike swallows or house martins which build mud nests and tend to stay in the countryside, swifts are truly urban birds.

But building methods have changed in the last half century or so, and modern buildings are less welcoming, with fewer openings. Even on older buildings roofline renovations can unwittingly deny swifts access to nest sites they have used for generations. It’s thought this change in construction is one of the primary drivers of population decline, along with climate disruption and the collapse in flying insect numbers.

The Worthing and Adur Swift Group has been set up to try to arrest this trend.

We aim to find out as much as possible about swifts we know nest in the town, to preserve them and to extend these colonies with swift boxes and bricks.

We want to share the love for swifts and

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

spread awareness about their modest needs – somewhere to nest and flying insects to eat.

The first step is to survey as much of Worthing as we can to document existing swift colonies. You may see us this spring and summer, out and about in pairs to note what we find. And you can help, by reporting the tell-tale signs of nesting swifts. The first are the so-called “screaming parties” when swifts fly low at roof-height, calling out. The other is the “bangers” when young swifts fly into roof tiles, seemingly hitting their heads.

Believe it or not, they are searching for unoccupied nest sites to use on their return next spring.

We would love to hear what you see. join our Facebook group and tell us about it there, or log it on the national site Swiftmapper.org.uk where we will pick it up. Maybe you would like to volunteer to help with our survey?

Worthing is a big town, and we are looking for more helpers to cover the ground. Together, let’s save the swifts to lift the summer spirits of generations to come.

HIGHDOWN HILLWALKING INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 11

Highdown Hillwalking & Mountaineering Club test out new path with vital repairs to iconic beauty spot in National Park

A

ccess to one of the most sacred – and spookiest – spots on the South Downs has been improved in time for the spring.

Thanks to £25,000 funding from the British Mountaineering Council, 800m of pathway up to Chanctonbury Ring has been given a much-needed makeover.

The popular path, which is part of the South Downs Way and known locally as Washington Bostal, was in a bad state of repair after years of wear and tear, with walkers having to dodge water-filled gullies.

Some 400 hours of manual labour by four high-skilled path workers – using three diggers, two dumper trucks and two rollers – has transformed the route. Now there is a smooth, durable chalk surface and a new camber to help rainwater runoff.

The upgrade was part of the British Mountaineering Council’s “Mend Our Mountains” campaign, from the BMC’s Access & Conservation Trust, which is helping to repair some of the most vital walking routes in England and Wales.

Ben Bessant, National Trails and Countryside Access Officer for the National Park Authority, joined members of Highdown Hillwalking and Mountaineering Club to test out the new path.

Ben said: “This was one of the most eroded sections of the South Downs Way

This new chalk and flint path looks fantastic and will last for many years to come. It’s in keeping with this ancient site which has been walked by humans for several thousands of years. (pictured above)

and it had got to the point where we really had to do something.

“This new chalk and flint path looks fantastic and will last for many years to come. It’s in keeping with this ancient site which has been walked by humans for several thousands of years.

“One of our key focuses at the National Park is ensuring access for all and this new path has made Chanctonbury Ring much more accessible. We want people to enjoy this wonderful location, all while caring for the landscape and wildlife by ‘leaving no trace’.”

Sue Waton, Secretary of Highdown Hillwalking and Mountaineering Club, said: “The transformation has been amazing – this path is so much better than the rutted, slippery surface we had before.

“It makes you confident you can walk it in all weathers and allows access to all levels of mobility to come out and enjoy this incredible scenery.”

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

Claire Maxted, BMC Access & Conservation Trust (ACT) Comms Officer, added: “The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) are proud to support the South Downs National Park Authority as part of the Access & Conservation Trust Mend Our Mountains campaign. This is exactly the type of footpath repair and access work that BMC memberships and donations to ACT allow us to facilitate.

Thank you so much to all BMC members and everyone who has donated to ACT, and we are very grateful to Sue, Alison and Chris from local BMC-affiliated Club, Highdown Hillwalking and Mountaineering Club, for meeting with Ben to test out this fantastic new path.”

Chanctonbury Ring is reputed to be one of the most haunted locations on the South Downs. The beech trees that circle the ring were first planted in 1760.

But long before it was the site of Bronze Age burials, Iron Age forts and a Roman temple. According to local folklore, walking widdershins (anti clockwise) seven times round the ring will summon the Devil, ready to offer you a bowl of milk, soup or porridge in exchange for your soul.

The work was made possible by the donation from the British Mountaineering Council to the South Downs Trust, the official charity of the National Park working to ensure future generations can enjoy this wonderful landscape.

12

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE CROSSWORD/BILLY AND BEYOND

Call Ian Slater on 07825 211228 or email ian@topglassdg.co.uk

Simon Rigler

Looking after each customer from first contact to installation www.topglassdg.co.uk Ultimate Handyman

ACROSS 1 5 9 10 12 15

16 18 19 20 24 25 26 27

Normal; accepted (8) Idolise (6) Controller (e.g. of machinery) (8) Slumbering (6) Secretary (12) A plea of being somewhere else when a crime was committed (5) Take turns (9) A plant having foliage all the year round (9) India’s largest and most populous city (5) Unprofessionally (12) Foolishness (6) Puzzling (8) Slender-pointed sewing instrument (6) Sticky; gluey (8)

DOWN 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 11 13 14 17 21 22 23

ADVERTISE & Property Maintenance

Demonstrate (4) Region (4) Extremely loud (9) City in Brazil and home of the Christ the Redeemer statue (3,2,7) A party with dancing to recorded music (5) Certain; cannot be avoided (10) Able to share and understand another person’s feelings (10) The southernmost of New York City’s five boroughs (6,6) Wound; gash (10) To become less strict (10) Daniel ___ , starred as the title character in all eight Harry Potter films (9) Outshine; be superior (5) A native or inhabitant of New Zealand (4) Look at with amorous intentions (4)

in a space this size for

£31.25 + VAT

liana@insidepublications.ltd

• Flat roof works • All repairs external • Hard landscaping and internal • Garden • Petrol lawnmower maintenance / Servicing clearance • Pick up and drop • Painting and off service decorating • Jet washing • Contract works

Call Harold - 07475 438788 www.ultihandyman.com

860+ miles for Billy & Beyond CIC

L

ast year, we completed the “Walk for Billy”, a 24 mile walk, that was a resounding success in terms of awareness and important funds for Billy & Beyond CIC. It was reflecting on the success of the walk that made a couple of us decided that in 2025 we should make it bigger and better! This

culminated in the idea that we should do a crazy challenge like John O’Groats to Lands End, but landing in Worthing instead - as Billy’s home town. Somehow, the idea grew traction, and before we knew it, it was out in the public arena and we were doing it!

We’ve already gained some great sponsorship from amazing local companies, and we are grateful for their contributions. We have been training hard so far, and feel like we are going to absolutely smash this, all the while keeping Billy at the forefront of our minds. 860+ miles?? Bring it on!!!

Founder and director of Billy and Beyond, Nicci Parish, said: “I cannot believe that Sam, Katie and Bailey are doing such a tough and incredible challenge for Billy and Beyond. We are hoping to get loads of people involved as we match them mile-for-mile on spin bikes at Worthing Leisure Centre and Splash Point. Please drop us an email at billyandbeyondcic@gmail.com if you wish to get involved or support us.

We are also announcing that all money raised will go towards the commissioning of a play written by award-winning local playwright Brendan Murray. This play will centre on love, loss and grief, and will be vital in our mission to ensure young people and parents are educated on the risks recreational drugs pose.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

PAWS FOR WELLBEING INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪

‘Paws for Wellbeing’ with Miss May As a Pets As Therapy Visiting PAT Dog, Miss May is a real superhero!

For May, we look at how dogs can help us find our inner HERO to support our wellbeing. We also meet PERMAH Pup of the Month, Meg - thanks to Amanda.

You probably already know that your dog makes you happy - but did you know they also help you build inner strength, to develop the mindset and skills to handle life’s ups and downs, embracing opportunities the world has to offer? One of the strongest “superpowers” we can draw on to

Miss May the Super Hero!

support our wellbeing and performance at school, work and life is called “Psychological Capital”. It is made up of 4 key elements that together spell the acronym HERO. These are Hope, Efficacy; Resilience and Optimism.

1. Hope – Our dogs remind us that tomorrow is a new day. Whether it’s looking forward to a morning walk or a wagging tail at the door, they keep us hopeful about what’s ahead. Dogs help us to stay positive and goal-focused and persist when obstacles get in the way.

2. Efficacy – This is about our confidence and self-belief. Successful bonding and training with a dog, reinforces a belief in our ability to influence outcomes, giving us a sense of purpose. When you train them, keep them healthy or just understand their needs, you prove to yourself that you’re capable,

P

Positive Emotions

E

Engagement

responsible and able to achieve your goals.

3. Resilience – Life can be tough. But our dogs are always there, offering comfort after a bad day. Dogs help us to manage stress and bounce back from adversity. Their affectionate nature and routine provide stability, which can help us regulate emotions and recover from setbacks and help us cope with stress.

4. Optimism – Ever noticed how your dog lives in the moment? Dogs encourage a focus on the present and simple joys, which can shift our perspectives toward a more positive outlook on life even in difficult times.

4 Pawsitive Pointers to Strengthen Your Inner HERO with your furry friend 1. Set goals together (Hope) Try learning a new trick with your dog or improving their recall or behaviour on walks.

Or train together for a Canicross event, like Amanda and Meg! Every little success reinforces the idea that progress is possible, keeping you motivated in other areas of life too.

2. Take on responsibility with confidence (Efficacy) If your dog is well-behaved, consider joining Pets as Therapy or other charities that support human-canine interactions. Helping other people with your dog can give you both a deeper sense of purpose and reinforce a belief in your ability to make a positive difference in the world.

3. Let your dog help you bounce back (Resilience) If you’re having a tough day, spend intentional time with your dog. Their unconditional love, routine and simple presence can help you recover from stress and refocus on what matters. Sitting quietly, noticing their natural calmness can be a powerful reminder to slow down and reset button when life feels overwhelming.

4. Have an adventure day (Optimism) Break the routine and go somewhere completely new together – a beach, the woods or dog-friendly café. See how a change of environment sparks excitement, curiosity and joy and brings a new way of looking at the world.

PERMAH PUP OF THE MONTH – MEET MEG! Meg will be eight in May. We had intended on getting two dogs, but she was the only one available. I’d never had a puppy of my own before and didn’t quite appreciate the immediate unconditional love I’d feel as soon it was agreed she was going to be ours.

Meg is a Sprocker, a cross between a working cocker spaniel and springer spaniel, which automatically means her favourite things to do are, eat everything, sniff everything and run everywhere. Oh, and zoomies – running as fast as she can around the house with her back legs over taking her front. She certainly has enough energy for more than one dog, lucky we didn’t get two!

Running and being outside in the countryside are the things I do to clear my head and de-stress, and Meg is my perfect running companion. We take part in Park Runs, and more competitive Canicross events, which is an exciting sport where a dog and human run together as a team cross-country. Meg has lots of her own medals and even came first in one event!

But at the end of all the excitement and energy that goes along with sharing life with a Sprocker, it’s the unconditional love she gives back and the snuggles on the sofa that make me go ahh, and relax.

Amanda De Ridder from Durrington

Medal Winning Meg!

Remember your dog is your best friend AND Super Hero - keeping you strong, confident, and hopeful!

R

Relationships

Miss May Instagram @may_redgoldengirl #bemoremissmay #permahpup PAT details more information on volunteering t. +44 (0)1865 590 308 w. https://petsastherapy.org University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Voluntary Services Tel: 01903 205111 Ext: 85615 or Email: uhsussex.volunteers-wash@nhs.net

M

Meaning

13

A

Accomplishment

H

Health

For more information about Miss May meet and greets or workshops please contact: Email: coach@cliveleach.com Insta: cliveleachcoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliveleachconsultancy/ Turning Tides: https://www.turning-tides.org.uk/ StreetVet: https://www.streetvet.co.uk/ Canicross: https://www.canicross.org.uk

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

14

⚪⚪⚪⚪

FA:ST

“Adolescence” and the crisis facing young women FA:ST

Welcome to FA:ST (Future Adults: Shaping Tomorrow), a section of INSIDE that responds to requests from young people to write and have their say. If you are a young person with something to say, email liana@insidepublications.ltd.

W

hen “Adolescence” premiered on Netflix, it wasn’t just another coming-of-age drama.

It was a gut-wrenching, unfiltered portrayal of what it means to grow up as a teenage girl in a world where misogyny is normalised, where social media fuels dangerous ideologies, and where gender-based violence is still not considered a hate crime. The show doesn’t sugarcoat reality - it forces audiences to confront it.

As a 16-year-old high school girl, watching ‘Adolescence’ felt like someone had finally put our unspoken fears, frustrations, and everyday battles on screen. It’s a harsh reminder that no matter how much progress society claims to have made, being a girl still comes with an inherent risk. Walking home at night, going to school, even existing online there’s always a chance that someone will treat you as less than human, just because you’re female. And the worst part? If something happens, the law still doesn’t recognize it for what it is: hate.

Matilda Cutting age 16

Right now, gender-based violence and misogyny are not legally classified as hate crimes in most places, including the UK. That means when a woman is attacked, harassed, or even murdered because she is a woman, it’s not seen in the same way as a racially or religiously motivated crime.

That should infuriate everyone. It certainly infuriates me.

Women are targeted for their gender all the time - on the streets, in schools, at home, online. Yet, when we demand legal recognition of this, we’re met with excuses, debates, and outright dismissal.

Why? Because acknowledging misogyny as a hate crime would mean admitting how deeply embedded it is in our society.

It would mean facing the uncomfortable truth that for centuries, violence against women has not been appropriately addressed and accepted as part of life.

One of the most striking things about ‘Adolescence’ is how it exposes the toxic influence of social media. The show highlights how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow misogynistic figures to spread harmful messages to millions of young people. It’s no secret that influencers like Andrew Tate have built entire empires by preaching male dominance and female submission, all while insisting it’s just “motivational content” or “free speech.”

The reality is far more sinister. These platforms push misogynistic content to young boys through algorithms designed to maximize engagement, regardless of the consequences. Boys as young as 12 are being fed videos that tell them

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

women are inferior, that feminism is a joke, and that they are entitled to control and disrespect us. Meanwhile, girls are left to navigate a digital world where harassment, body shaming, and unrealistic beauty standards are the norm.

One of the biggest failures of social media companies is their complete inability - or refusal - to properly enforce age restrictions. Most platforms claim they are for users 13 and up, yet it’s laughably easy for much younger kids to sign up.

Even for those over 13, there is no real protection against being exposed to extreme, harmful content.

If social media companies truly cared about young people’s wellbeing, they would do many things better. Including enforcing strict and verifiable age restrictions, improving content moderation to remove harmful, misogynistic rhetoric and changing algorithms so they don’t push toxic content to impressionable young minds.

But the reality is, these companies profit from engagement, and outrage-driven content - especially content that fuels division and hatred - keeps people scrolling.

“Adolescence” isn’t just a drama. It’s a reflection of the world we live in. It forces us to ask hard questions: Why do we still accept misogyny as “just the way things are”? Why is it so easy for hate to spread unchecked? And why are young people being left to deal with the consequences of a system that refuses to protect them?

The show is a wake-up call. Now, the question is—will society listen?

FA:ST ⚪⚪⚪⚪ 15

COLONNADE HOUSE

Two Art Exhibitions One Venue May 2025

Learning a better way:

a practical guide

by Frankie Hernandez-Kay

O

ver the years at my school, I’ve come across many ways to relate activities to the curriculum, ranging from worksheets to entire school trips tens of kilometres away from the school - some were experiences that I’ll never forget, while others were quickly forgotten. But in every case, for good or bad, those who did stick with me always had something practical.

These tasks involved simple questions and answers and full multistep problem-solving and in-depth explorations of the subject at hand through a real-world application of the lesson. I’ve always found these activities a much better way to connect with the lesson over the seemingly never-ending stream of worksheets that have dominated teaching for many years. Sadly, the practical approach has been mainly sidelined to only a few lessons for a while now, only rarely popping up in other lessons just when the stars align perfectly.

Recently, my school’s business department decided to do something different. Instead of the joyless worksheet, they set up a competition between the classes and students to devise, plan and execute the best pizza business plan (including the pizza). This would be carried out over roughly a month or two in the normal lessons where we learnt about all the skills and techniques used by entrepreneurs and business owners to create and run their own businesses. Firstly, we created our initial idea which included selecting our target market and how our pizza van would operate. Then, we started to work on our business plan.

We thought about how to advertise and how we would target specific segments of the market we had chosen. Even though this involved the dreaded worksheets, it felt different as there was a tangible reason. For example, when we calculated the cost of each pizza, there was a certain enjoyment in trying to find the best value product of mozzarella. It was nice to have an end goal to work towards that wasn’t just getting to the end of a unit. Relating what we were learning to filling out the sheet helped show how planning can help.

After completing our business plans, we planned out which pizza we would make for the competition and how we would present our work.

We were judged on a couple of criteria by one teacher from our school, Walter, the owner of a local pizza restaurant, Justin, an entrepreneur and co-owner of BlueBillboard and the owner of Inside, Liana Naylor. The criteria being the quality of the business plan and the pizza itself. Having the experience and knowledge of people who have gone through this process of successfully planning and executing a business idea allowed us to gain some valuable insight into how this would work at a larger scale.

Overall, this experience has been hugely beneficial to my understanding of what skills are needed to be an entrepreneur and how to use these skills to create a successful business. I believe that this method of teaching, in combination with traditional ways of getting across the essential base knowledge, is a far superior way of communicating and explaining complex topics such as business planning. Hopefully, we will see this method be used effectively in other subjects soon.

EXHIBITION 1 Worthing and Washington Parkinson’s UK Group proudly present an Art Exhibition in Gallery 1 at Colonnade House from May 20-24, 10:00am5:00pm daily. The exhibition is called “Shaky Hands” with artists from the Worthing and Washington Parkinson’s UK Art Group, together with a local guest artist who has kindly donated a piece of their artwork. The aim is to help gain an insight into the creative minds of those living with Parkinson’s Disease and promote the benefits of art to those affected by the condition, along with raising awareness and vital funds for research to help find a cure.

EXHIBITION 2 Along side Exhibition 1, Nicolette Amos (a member of Worthing and Washington Parkinson’s Branch) will be holding a solo exhibition called “Rainbow Bloom” featuring her artwork based on Jellyfish and the sea.

You can visit the Colonnade House website, link as follows: https://colonnadehouse.co.uk/event/shaky-hands/

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

16

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE DADS, SUMS AND DRUMS

From government grants to basslines: How a dad-led project turned Worthing into a maths music revolution.

A council-backed initiative uses hip-hop to help families reconnect with numbers.

A

new rap track and video created by a group of parents, children, and musicians in Worthing is helping families build confidence in maths through rhyme, rhythm, and real-life stories, and it is about to go viral.

The song is part of Dads, Sums & Drums, a community project developed by social enterprise, Dad La Soul, with funding from West Sussex County Council through the government’s Multiply programme.

Designed to support adults who struggle with numeracy, the project takes a creative approach to a longstanding national issue — turning everyday fears about numbers into lyrics and beats.

Produced in collaboration with youth music charity AudioActive, filmmaker Kristian Coburn of Darza Productions, and a team of rappers, singers and producers, the project explores how music can help families engage with

mathematical ideas in a way that feels collaborative, joyful and relevant.

Dan Flanagan, founder of awardwinning social enterprise Dad La Soul, whose brainwave the project was says; “Within our community, we have many experienced, creative folks that we can bring together. They include nursery and primary schools and local business leaders. They are parents who also happen to be amazing filmmakers, battle rappers, acclaimed music producers, child-led learning experts and storytellers who are thrilled to lend their skills and talent to the cause We have developed a Dad La Soul Creative Agency, which helps fund our lifesaving work, suicide prevention and the escalation in social isolation in dads.

This level of innovation gives us a real edge when tackling challenging social issues”.

The project is showcased by a fantastic video that features more than seventy Worthing locals aged between 3 and 76 years, including the Town Crier, a definite first for any rap video.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

A NATIONAL CRISIS IN NUMBERS — AND CONFIDENCE Nearly half of working-age adults in the UK have numeracy skills no better than those expected of an 11-year-old.

According to government figures, poor maths ability costs the UK economy an estimated £20 billion annually.

But the challenge is not only economic, it’s emotional — and generational.

A 2023 study by Cambridge University found that 36% of children in the UK feel anxious about maths. Research shows that if a parent struggles with numeracy, their child is three times more likely to feel the same.

“We hear it all the time,” says Flanagan.

“Parents who feel guilty, embarrassed, or just shut down when their kids ask for help with homework. It’s not about laziness — it’s about shame”.

The Multiply programme was launched by the UK government to tackle adult numeracy in communities across the country. With a £560 million investment, it supports projects that help people gain confidence with numbers in everyday

DADS, SUMS AND DRUMS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 17 life — from budgeting to supporting children’s learning.

The goal of Multiply is not just to boost workplace numeracy, but to help parents feel confident supporting their children.

In Worthing, that support took a different form — a garage beat, a rap verse, and a microphone.

Richard Bromfield, Programme Officer for Multiply Skills for Life, praised the project as a bold and innovative way to tackle numeracy anxiety in families.

“Dad La Soul’s innovative approach to learning has been a game-changer.

Their work with families in Worthing is a brilliant example of how creativity can tackle barriers to education and engagement. Math anxiety affects not just children but whole families - and by bringing parents into the learning process in a fun and engaging way, this project is making a real impact.”

FROM SCRIBBLES TO THE STUDIO: TURNING FEELINGS INTO FLOW Before any lyrics were written or beats composed, the team behind Dads, Sums & Drums began by listening.

Through informal conversations, techled data gathering, play sessions and community meetups, run by Dad La Soul, families were invited to share their honest maths experiences — as children, parents, and learners.

“We didn’t need more surveys— we needed honesty,” says Flanagan. “That’s where the real insight lives.”

Many parents described feeling overwhelmed, anxious or ashamed when trying to help their children with homework. Others admitted avoiding maths altogether.

Working with Hannah Coburn, a primary school teacher and maths specialist, the team translated those insights into creative prompts reflecting how young children learn: rhythm, repetition and movement.

The aim was to connect with pupils and

& Drums’ are absolutely invaluable.

We often have parents and carers struggling to help their children with their maths homework, not really understanding the strategies we use to break down numbers in our lessons.

By engaging adults in this way and by listening to children’s voices when it comes to maths, we can break down the learning in a really fun and accessible way, giving parents and carers confidence around maths when talking to their children - it’s absolutely incredible. I really hope that the project is picked up not just locally but nationally.”

Local councillors have also welcomed the initiative as an example of how creative partnerships can address serious educational barriers.

“This is another great example of partnership working,” says Cllr Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Learning and Skills at West Sussex County Council.

“We’re pleased to support innovative projects like this — ones that help parents, carers and children across the county build skills and confidence in line with our council priorities.”

parents — many of whom had never felt confident with numbers.

“As a teacher and maths lead, I see this all the time,” says Coburn.

“We often have parents and carers who want to help their children but don’t understand the strategies we use in class.

By involving them directly and by listening to how children feel about maths, we can break things down in a really accessible way.”

From there, the artists stepped in. Rappers with roots in the UK battle scene, soulful vocalists, scratch DJs and experienced producers worked closely with the community to turn real feelings into lyrics.

What might have been a novelty project became something more substantial: a track described as a “grooving garage rap with anthemic soulful house chorus” — designed not to go viral but to create connection.

LEARNING THROUGH LYRICS: FAMILIES FIND A NEW RHYTHM WITH MATHS The impact was immediate for Paul Tyldesley, a father who had participated in the project.

“This project has really helped me and my son have fun with maths,” he says. “We make up raps about sums and numbers in the car together. Before, I would really struggle to get him interested in anything mathematical.”

Children involved in the sessions responded enthusiastically - not just to the music but to the shift in tone around learning.

“Maths is about learning different tricks that will help you in real life,” says Leo, aged six. “Doing raps about it helps me remember.”

“That sense of joy - and shared effort - is a core part of the project’s success”, according to Hannah Coburn, who helped guide the curriculum alignment.

“As a primary school teacher and a maths specialist, projects like ‘Dads, Sums

FROM WORTHING TO NATIONWIDE? A NEW MODEL FOR COMMUNITY LEARNING Although Dads, Sums & Drums was developed in one corner of West Sussex, those behind the project believe it could offer a blueprint for broader social change.

“If we can turn 70 families into raploving mathematicians and bring local nurseries, schools and businesses together to tackle what might be quite a dull subject, imagine what we could do nationwide,” says Dan Flanagan.

While many education interventions focus on classroom settings, this project takes a different approach - meeting families where they are and making learning feel communal, creative, and non-judgemental.

“It sounds ridiculous at first,” he says.

“But when you see a kid and his parents who hated maths, now understanding and rapping about quadratic equations, you realise - it’s not just working, it’s transforming how families engage with learning.”

“We’re not trying to go viral. We’re trying to change how families feel about learning. And if this track helps just one more dad to sit down, laugh, and work through homework with their kid - then we’ve done our job.”

To learn more about the project, visit www.dadlasoul.com.

Watch the video on YouTube or listen to it on Spotify.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

18

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE THE REAL REPAIR SHOP

Part Two: Home coffee making – Matt Marchant

the perfect method revealed right and the flavours and coffee oils will mix beautifully with the water, creating a satisfying drink. Get it wrong and you will probably end up with expensive dish water. For the tests in this article, we used a professional coffee grinder, as you might find in a high street shop. Whilst a machine like this is the best for coffee grinding, most people at home won’t need one, since coffee grinds of all varieties are available at the supermarket. Unless you’re a serious connoisseur with deep pockets, supermarket fresh coffee is fine as long as you match the grind to the brewing method and appliance. There are also local independent coffee suppliers who can match the perfect grind to your machine.

If you’re always seeking that perfect brew, I might just have some brew news for you!

H

ello again and last time I left you in a state of suspense as we were about to unveil the results of our coffee experiment. For those of you wondering what I’m on about, I’ll recap.

In a world where it seems that everyone has an opinion on the perfect cup, Part One introduced the idea of debunking and demystifying coffee making and laid the foundations for this - Part Two. I worked with time-served local coffee expert, Paul Ramsey of Domluca, to test various ways of making coffee. With Paul, I gathered a selection of machines considered to be “amazing” and with Paul’s advice, made a about 10 cups of coffee to see which one was the best. Spoiler alert; it didn’t quite work out as neatly as I’d intended, but a few top-tips emerged, which I hope will help readers to make the perfect highstreet-like brew, at home.

LESSON 1; IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GRIND Grind size is really important, as it determines how long the water interacts with coffee grounds. I like to call this the “coffee dwell time” or CDT – an acronym I’ve just made up. Get the CDT

LESSON 2; HARDNESS ISN’T IDEAL Worthing water is full of The Downs no bad thing in the main, but over time any water heating appliance will form limescale. “What is limescale Matthew?”, I hear a person say. Well, this rock-like deposit is formed at about 60⁰C when water, with dissolved calcium bicarbonate turns to calcium carbonate. It clings to moving parts, heating elements and pipes and can render a machine with pipes useless very quickly. When this happens, assuming that no damage has been done during the process, the only real course of action is to use descaler for really bad cases. However, regular use of white vinegar or concentrate pure lemon juice (both acidic to break down the alkaline material) will also work. Whatever you clean your kettle or machine with, rinse it through for several cycles, before drinking water or coffee from it!

Calcium carbonate also affects the taste of our drinks, and it’s something we’re all used to. If it bothers you, and I’m in this camp, then I recommend buying a jug water filter and using the filtered water to fill your kettle with. Try it for a month and you’ll really notice a reduction in the limescale build-up. You’ll also taste better tea and coffee.

So now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to wake-up and smell the coffee.

While this isn’t an academic piece, I’ve tried to monitor the same variables for each coffee making method; those being; time-to-make, energy used, cleanup time and above all, the taste. Pod machines were not tested here because they almost need their own article due to complexity.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

ORCHESTRALE NOTA What a beast of a machine. Reassuringly heavy (Paul and I lifted it into the house on a trolley) this machine would work just as well in a small coffee shop as it would at home and its price reflects the hand-built, industrial quality. At around £3,000, only serious coffee lovers need apply. We used a fine ground, high quality blend to make our coffee, and with it’s 9 Bar pressure, consistent temperature (around 119 degrees Celsius). It does not compromise.

It seems that you get what you pay for and the Nota and others in this price bracket are in a class of their own. With a 3-litre tank and pressure regulation that even I could operate, this machine made a drink that tasted rich and delicious, with a fine crema. Two shots and semi-skimmed milk was used. Electricity use was fairly high at around 7p per brew. Amazing kit, (fully repairable) if a little pricey for the home user, still 9/10.

GAGGIA CUBIKA I have owned this machine, second-hand for over 15 years. My model isn’t available now, but Gaggia make a similar model for around £400. Similar in operation to the Nota, it has one group head and similar controls. On the day, it couldn’t match the pressure of the Nota and, therefore, the taste was flatter and weaker. Not a bad brew, but out classed by the more expensive machine, despite using the same coffee grind. Two shots and skimmed milk used. Being totally honest, I think the seals needed replacing – typical workshop owner’s machine! Around 2p of electricity to make a cup. Good looking machine in the kitchen and easy to use, but when you’ve used a professional machine only 6/10.

THE REAL REPAIR SHOP INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 19

LA PAVONI EUROPICCOLA A quirky looking machine by modern standards, this design has not really changed in form or function for over 60 years. Made for the serious home coffee lover, and at over £600 new, these machines show a world of promise.

This machine came into the workshop as a repair, and in the end, it was a full restoration. Not quite a ‘Trigger’s Broom’ job, many parts had to be replaced including seals, sensors and connections.

It was also full of limescale, highlighting the need for regular cleaning. We were impressed with the taste. Energy use was about the same as a kettle (just over 1p) in our test and the ease of use, clean up and resulting taste were very close to the Nota, giving it a result of 8/10.

BODUM CAFETIERE Let’s try something simple and usually effective. At around £20 or less, a cafetiere is perfect for making coffee for many. Put the desired amount of coffee in, pour in hot water, wait and plunge. The critical thing here is the coffee. Since there is no pump or controlled pressured environment to extract the coffee oils, coffee grind surface area is important. So, we used 4 scoops of a larger grind coffee and waited around 6 minutes before plunging. An electric kettle used about 2p to heat the water. It gave a very pleasant tasting coffee which was quick and easy to clean up. We gave this 6/10.

60S PERCOLATOR Often bought as anniversary and wedding presents back in the day these, often

maybe it was a present. It has been used, rinsed and dried and used again to make a decent brew more times than I care to remember. Using around three scoops of medium ground coffee, the resulting brew was rich and creamy and while not as intense or flavoursome as the Nota, the taste and texture wasn’t too bad from a machine costing much less. I tend to boil the kettle, 2-3p of electricity and then pour into the pot’s base. After assembly and a brief spell on the gas hob (another penny or so) the coffee was ready. Clear up usually means a wait before disassembly due to heat, but overall, 7/10 awarded.

British made, metal or porcelain jugs with electric heating elements within, set out to combine the best of a stove coffee pot, cafetiere and kettle in one appliance.

60 years on, this machine is often found hidden away in lofts and is still relevant today. We used 4 scoops of a medium grind coffee, filled the machine about ¾ and waited about 10 minutes for the Perc to cycle the water. Serving around 3-4 people, we loved the rich coffee smells created and it provided great flavour too.

Easy to clean-up with only about 3p of electricity consumed. We awarded 7/10.

V60 CUP, AEROPRESS AND WACACO One of the great things about researching these articles is that I get to talk to lots of people. Anyone who knows me, knows I love to talk! Before writing this, I’d never heard about V60 cup, Aeropress and Wacaco portable espresso makers and as a gadget lover, I felt as if I’d missed out. The Wacaco is plain gorgeous design, I love the simplicity of the V60 cup and the Aeropress (kindly donated – thanks Thomas) provides every day robustness. The great thing about these machines is that they provide that “coffee hit” for one, on the go. If you buy a cup of coffee every day from a shop, it can work out expensive and these machines, aimed at the office and camping market, aims to save you money in the long run.

These machines require a fine grind to give the oils a chance to interact when either the hand operated plunger is applied or gravity does its thing. Owners of these devices rave about them, but I couldn’t get on with them. While the flavour was OK, there just wasn’t the heat in the resulting drink, Maybe it was the coffee grind I used, but the flavours produced were a little bit flat. Having said all that, they look good and are easy to clean and at generally 1p (or less) of electricity to use, cost per cup is low. 5/10 awarded.

STOVE COFFEE POT Available in many sizes, usually starting from around £15, these devices have been around for years. Mine is over 20 years old and I think I bought it when I moved out,

IN CONCLUSION I’ve never drunk so much coffee in one sitting, I had to wait a week for the caffeine buzz to wear off. My hands have only just stopped shaking. So, what have we proved with this experiment? It turns out that if you buy a coffee shop machine, you’ll get a cup of coffee as good as one made in a shop. Who knew?! Modern machines and portables are convenient and may save money, if you can’t live without the stuff on a daily basis. For me though, the traditional stove pot and to some extent the percolator, were the best all-rounders considering convenience, cost and taste.

On the subject of taste, it really is personal preference, and as long as you’re mindful of hardness, it’s all about the grind. On that note, I thank you very much. Until the next time…

GIVEAWAY! The first three readers to contact the Editor by email stating what their favourite coffee making method is and what they thought of the article (good or bad) will be given a bag of lovely Domluca coffee. Your feedback will be printed in the next edition of INSIDE. fixitworkshop.co.uk X @fix_it_workshop Insta @repairyourthings Email fixitworkshop@btinternet.com

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

20

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ #LETSSUSITOUT

This month we feature two topics high on the CREW agenda, transport and energy

By Tanwen Morgan

TRANSPORT To begin on transport, we recently joined up with Transition Town Transport group bringing a wealth of experience to the group.

A new 20mph speed limit has been proposed for some of the streets around Goring. A question was put to the Full Council meeting in December, by one of our members, based around a workshop looking at the possibility of reducing speed limits in some of the residential streets in Goring.

The workshop, which was organised

by Worthing Borough Council (WBC) in conjunction with Aberystwyth University, was well attended and well run. It considered how slower speeds can create safer streets, encourage more walking and cycling, improve air quality and enhance the overall sense of wellbeing for everyone.

The majority of those who attended were in favour of proceeding with a pilot project in the area around West Park primary, Goring primary and Oscar Romero schools. The Council was asked what will happen next and when we might see the start of the pilot project. Unfortunately, nothing is planned

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

to happen in the near future, although 20mph schemes are in operation in other parts of West Sussex.

We have started a campaign on Pavement Parking - A question was asked at a WBC meeting if they could pass a by-law to stop people parking on the pavement. We then wrote to council officers regarding the legality of pavement parking. We feel that a pilot scheme should be set-up, with the agreement of a local community group to obtain their views. Pavement parking causes problems for vulnerable and disabled people including young families with buggies. There’s already a ban in Greater London and parts of Scotland. Some Councils are now calling for a ban across England Cycling - We continue to lobby the council to extend the shared use path from George V Avenue to Sea Lane, this would make Goring seafront more accessible to all.

We are contacting Network Rail about installing a bike ramp on the railway bridge at Elm Grove. The ramp that would run up the side of the bridge without disrupting pedestrians and reduce damage to bike frames and springs.

#LETSSUSITOUT ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪

21

Buses - The group recently had a very productive meeting with the Business Development Manager of Stagecoach South. We asked many questions, ranging from changes to the local routes and timetables, fare rises, disabled travellers, electric buses and many more. He answered in an honest forthright way that gave hope for the future. We have agreed to continue working with him on local issues related to bus travel and will meet with him at regular intervals Peoples Assembly - In the summer, we are arranging a People’s Assembly on active travel and public transport. A people’s assembly is a grassroots form of deliberative and direct democracy, a way for a group of people to collectively make decisions and discuss issues in which everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

The aim of the assembly is to send a plan to WBC and West Sussex County Council from local residents to assist them to become carbon neutral by 2030 or before. We need a greener, more effective and affordable means of travel around Worthing from walking to cycling to catching the bus or train.

We’re building the Assembly around the following issues that will be addressed by members of the public who will be invited along; • Rights of Pedestrians • Cycle paths • Better connected Public transport The three questions will include access and assistance for disabled. To run the Assembly in a professional way, we will appoint a facilitator and expert speakers for each of the above issues. Members of the public present will then come up with specific points to put to the council for action.

ENERGY CREW are extremely conscious of the need for growth in alternative energy.

With the UK aiming to reach net zero by 2050, using electricity that comes from renewable sources is essential to help reduce our carbon emissions. That’s why it’s important to phase out fossil fuels as soon as possible. Here are some examples of things taking place in our local area.

Worthing’s new Heat Network is being constructed by Hemiko who develop and operate heat networks across the UK. The heat network will collect waste heat from around the town and distribute to the community through underground pipes. Heat networks are low cost and low carbon. Hemiko is expected to offer a connection to every building in town by 2050, with the first buildings to be connected by summer 2025.

Rampion 2 Wind Farm is being developed as an extension to the existing Rampion offshore wind farm, off the Sussex coast. If consented, the project could move into construction in the next two years, the wind farm would then be fully operational before the end of the decade. Rampion 2 will be able to power the equivalent of over 1 million homes.

West Sussex Solar Project Expansion More schools and other buildings across West Sussex will soon be able to generate and use their own renewable energy thanks to the expansion of a county council solar project. The County Council will be growing its Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Storage programme and is planning to install new renewable energy systems at 60 further sites across the

county, including libraries, fire stations and schools.

CREW have teamed up with Community Energy Pathways to deliver free energy advice and to help reduce energy outgoings for domestic housing.

We are arranging presentations that are being delivered by a trained Energy Champion to provide impartial advice on topics from free and cheap changes to help with household bills, to low carbon technologies. Grant support, energy efficiency advice, behavioural change, scam awareness, debt advice and smart meter advice will be included in the presentations. This free service is offered to residents.

If you would like to connect with CREW, volunteer, be a trustee, deliver an event or join our mailing list, get in touch info@worthingcrew.co.uk.

We are asking for your help to ensure our climate centre has a sense of security and stability, enabling our community to become more resilient, prepared and able to adapt to the changes occurring now and in the coming years. Please consider making a donation no matter how small. Thank you.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

22

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE LOCAL HISTORY

The nature of witchcraft Chris Hare

During May, Chris Hare will give two talks at the Sidney Walter Centre: one about the naturalist Richard Jefferies, who died in Goring in 1887, and another on the history of witchcraft in Sussex. To his surprise, Chris discovered significant crossover between the two topics.

Mother and daughter

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

I

deas of witchcraft and witches have changed radically over the centuries.

From the Witch of Endor raising Samuel from the land of the dead three thousand years ago to the witches of the New Age today, there is infinite variety. Some people like to believe that there is an unbroken Wicca religion that can be traced back to the time before the Romans.

One hundred years ago, folklorist Margaret Murray claimed to have proven that such a cult or religion had really existed. She examined the confessions of witches across Europe in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and found remarkable similarities in the beliefs they confessed to. How, she argued, could a confession in Sicily be almost word-forword the same as one given in Scotland?

The only explanation, she suggested, was that these women were part of an international occult belief system..

However, others, looking at the same evidence, drew very different conclusions: most of these women had been tortured until they made confessions, and their torturers, no matter what country they were in, were looking for the same admissions of ungodly and Devilish practices. In other words, the ‘evidence’ was wrought from the rack and the tumbscrew. These are not confessions that would stand up in any court today.

Attitudes towards witches and witchcraft have shifted hugely over time. At one moment the witch is a necromancer, at another a caster of spells, and then again, a healer and mystic. It was during the great religious and political upheavals that engulfed Europe during the Reformation that witchcraft persecution became endemic, leading to trials and executions.

In Germany, the deaths ran into thousands, with Spain not far behind.

Although witches were burned to death in many European countries, including Scotland, in England witches were hanged.

Heretics were burned to death in England, with 36 suffering this appalling death in Sussex alone between the years 1556 and 1558. While most condemned witches were women, most condemned heretics were men.

As I have mentioned before in this column, we are very fortunate that one of the founders of modern folklore studies, Charlotte Latham, was born in West Sussex, and worked in Worthing as a governess when she was a young woman. The Witchcraft Act had only been repealed for 66 years when Latham was born in 1801; yet even be the time of her death in 1883,

LOCAL HISTORY INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 23

Richard Jefferies

the old superstitious fear of witches and the “evil eye” still persisted Writing in 1868, Latham observed: “Numbers of our people believe in ‘might of the magic spell’ and in the power of witches and wizards to work them ill, and to reveal to them the future events of their lives, and imagine that they have acquired this power and knowledge be selling themselves to the Evil One.” There is an interesting paradox here: for although the fear persisted, the county of Sussex stands out in the whole of England for its leniency in dealing with acts of supposed witchcraft in the years when witchcraft was still a crime. Indeed only four people had ever been convicted of witchcraft in Sussex and only one person, Margaret Cooper of Kirdford, had ever been executed and that was back in 1575. Not all counties were so lenient, and hundreds were hanged in other counties, such as Essex and Huntingdonshire. No county in England was less inclined to prosecute witches than Sussex.

Although the concept of “black” and “white” witches is not to be found in Sussex, the “good witch” is generally referred to as a “cunning woman” or “cunning man”. Today, “cunning” has a very negative connotation: it was very different in Latham’s time.

Sussex people would travel long distances to consult what Latham called the “village doctoress’”.She even gives an example of local people travelling great distances to consult one of these rustic practitioners “A man living in the neighbourhood of Chichester, whose children and grandchildren are much afflicted, has twice made a journey of upwards of a hundred miles, with different members of his family, to visit a cunning man in Doresetshire, who professes to be in possession of charms.

The month of May is the only month when they will work, and the sufferers, to derive any benefit therefrom, must have their eyes fixed on the new moon at the time when

they are presented with a box of ointment made from herbs gathered when the moon was full.”

The charms used by cunning folk invariably ended by invoking Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. For “unlettered” country people, the lore of the land and the word of the Bible were entirely compatible.

Yet, others witches were deeply feared and believed to be in league with the Devil.

Latham gives many examples, this is just one of them “There lived, till very lately, in a village near Chichester, a woman of indifferent character, who was never spoken of by the villagers by any other name than that of “The Witch”. All appeared to dread her power, and every sudden misfortune that befell them was ascribed to her; but, instead of saying that they were bewitched, they used the very singular expression of being “sin-struck” by the witch. The groom of a gentleman residing in the parish assured his master that there was no resisting her power, and added, “If she willed that I should sit across the roof of this stable from morning to night, she’d have me up there in an instant, and nothing could bring me down till she gave me leave to come down.”

In my witchcraft talk, I will also discuss many instances of good and evil magic, as well as the near universal belief, found all across Europe at one time, that witches could turn into hares. There were also many elaborate and (to us) strange rites and rituals people engaged in to defeat the power of witchcraft.

Let me turn, finally, to Richard Jefferies, a man deeply steeped in the life and ways of rural England in the nineteenth century.

His wisdom and insights are startling, and

often, deeply moving. I have just completed writing a Worthing Heritage pamphlet devoted to the man and his writings, which will be published by the time you read this article.

Jefferies identified the tangible relationship between all living things and in one of his Sussex essays hinted at his belief in “sympathetic magic”, and the plants and trees most closely in tune with the human life cycle. He doubted that the evergreen could ever be an ally of man, but other trees most certainly were – “The lost leaves measure our years; they are gone as the days are gone, and the bare branches silently speak of a new year, slowly advancing to its buds, its foliage, and fruit. Deciduous trees associate with human life as the yew never can. Clothed in its yellow-greenish needles, its tarnished green, it knows no hope or sorrow; it is indifferent to winter, and does not look forward to summer. With their annual loss of leaves, and renewal, oak and elm and ash and beach seem to stand by us and share our thoughts.”

Jefferies also observed how some people were more in tune with nature than others, and that women predominated among them. In his novels, strong independent women, at one with the countryside around them, are always to the fore: there is Felise Goring in The Dewy Morn, and Amaryllis Iden, in his last novel, published the year of his death in 1887, Amaryllis at the Fair – “She loved beauty for its own sake – she loved the sunlight, the grass and the trees, the gleaming water, the colours of the fields and the sky. To listen to the running water was to her a dear delight, to the wind in the high firs, or caught in the wind-stretching arms of the oak; she rested among these things, they were to her mind as sleep to the body.”

Arguably, the greatest ever writer of the English countryside, Thomas Hardy, explored similar themes. Tess in Tess of the D’Urbervilles, is invested with an elemental power, steeped in the landscape around her: “Women whose chief companions are the forms and forces of outdoor Nature retain in their souls far more of the Pagan fantasy of their remote forefathers than of the systematized religion taught their race at later date.”

Studying the history of witchcraft in the context of the evolving English countryside may reap more rewards than ghoulish explorations into Satanic Sabbats and gory executions.

Chris’ illustrated talks on Richard Jefferies (May 3) and the history of Witchcraft in Sussex (May 24th) can be booked by following this link, www.tickettailor.com/ events/historypeople

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

24

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE LIVE MUSIC REVIEWS

Hello, and welcome to

!

S W E I V E R NEW MUS IC

by Beth Sarah, blueskymusic.fun

T

his month I had the pleasure of catching some live events, including Lade Nade at Beer No Evil. Although Lady Nade is not a Worthing local, the venue has been regularly showcasing out-of-town artists who are well worth watching, so keep an eye out for their Hear No Evil sessions.

Tom Speight has also been a guest with them this year and his new single came out recently.

LADY NADE LIVE AT BEER NO EVIL Heading out to Beer no Evil this evening I had no idea that I was going to have such a life-affirming experience. Lady Nade is a staple on the UK folk scene; a singer-songwriter rooted in the music of artists such as Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell and Joan Armatrading; advocate for women, advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement and general all-round lovely person.

I’ve been to these intimate gigs before, so I knew how cosy it would be. Room for perhaps 20 to 25 at a push, and usually sold out, So, we squeezed in on the wooden benches. The close proximity gaves us all a sense of community that only comes from hearing live music and storytelling in such a confined space. That you’re just all in this experience together. It’s unique, and it’s beautiful.

Lady Nade started the evening by singing a song about a conversation, setting the tone for the theme of the night. With absolute rawness and vulnerability, she sings and plays acoustic guitar unamplified, interspersed with stories of her experiences that are honest and at times, a little painful to talk about. The result is a tangible feeling of awe at her ability to drop her defences so far as to let us in on such a personal journey of mental health ebbs and flows, a childhood littered with issues, therapy sessions, her propensity to choose men who are likely to abandon her and the definite need for good friends.

Her song “Willing” explains her passion for community and upholding each other. This certainly comes through in the way she speaks.

She encourages us to speak to each other, to be kind, to have conversations about how we feel and not bottle up big emotions because it can

have dramatic consequences for our bodies. She openly explains that she’s recorded a song in the wrong key after placing her capo on the wrong fret for a song; we all laugh and she continues gracefully, confidently, without hesitation.

You can tell that Lady Nade’s creativity comes hand in hand with her feelings, and the hearton-sleeve lyrics delve into emotional territory that cleverly twist her tales of life’s joys and woes.

“Grandaddy was a grand man, Daddy,” she sings to her father about his father, who she spent most of her childhood living with. “I’m glad you gave me to him”. Families are such complex things and for Lady Nade, despite all the hardships she has faced, the ability to put her emotions into song appears to have given her a positive way of moving forward from negativity - although the voice inside her head is always there bringing her down (but that’s something she’s working on).

Well, I for one, appreciate the music, the stories and the vulnerability that shows us all that we are only human, and no-one is perfect. It’s in embracing our imperfections that we shine the most. Lady Nade, you gave me so much this evening in your openness and honesty. Thank you. Thank you too, to Beer no Evil for providing such a beautiful, safe space for live music that really gets right into hearts and minds. It’s a lovely thing that you’re cultivating and I am grateful.

HARRY PETER MILES – LATE NIGHT SUNRISE One of the most important pieces of advice I have been given as an artist is to never release music without fanfare. Writing new music is a big deal - recording and mixing it, especially independently, is also a big deal; releasing it is the culmination of all that creativity, time and effort. This deserves to be recognised and celebrated. Sometimes new music slips right under the radar for lack of fanfare, and this album is one such case. Released back in November 2024 by Harry Peter Miles, affectionately known on the Open Mic scene as Harry PM (I always

wondered what the PM stood for!), Late Night Sunrise is a shining example of what can be achieved by one person when they have a passion for documenting their creativity. I was going to review just one song but I believe the entire album needs to get into more people’s ears. On first listen, these songs are exciting.

It makes me think of the likes of Radiohead, Muse, Arctic Monkeys and a bit of the Beatles underpinning the song structures and melodies.

Miles’ voice winds its way around the melodies in a post-Britpop slurry tone that seems to be a universally popular style, making him sound familiar from the off. He has an almost Bowieesque depth to his vocal at times, accompanied by cleverly arranged instrumentation that takes each song in a slightly different direction. Miles has certainly not fallen into the trap of making an album where all the songs sound the same (let’s face it, we’ve all been there!). For a debut, I’m incredibly impressed and I’m really looking forward to seeing how he develops as an artist.

TOM SPEIGHT – HIGHER Well this is a feel-good tune if ever I heard one!

With a title like Higher, I suppose you’d expect some sort of uplifting vibe, but on this occasion Tom exceeds my expectations.

It’s the middle of the night and I should be going to sleep, but I suddenly remembered I was going to listen to this track and decide whether I wanted to write some words about it or not. Turns out, I feel compelled to explain that by listening to this song, your life will be enriched. Opening with some fun doodoo-doo vocables, it’s instantly hooky and gets me tapping my feet. It reminds me of an oldschool RnB song littered with sporadic brass lines and overlapping vocals, all complementing each other so well. I can just imagine the feeling of excitement in the air after this songwriting team got together and came up with this corker. Song of the summer for 2025? It may well be.

Email review submissions to reviews@blueskymusic.fun Find out more about what we do at www.blueskymusic.fun

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

LIVE LISTINGS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪

25

To get your music event listed email events@insidepublications.ltd by March 5 for April THURSDAY 1

TUESDAY 6

Speakeasy Conversation Club Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-11:00pm

Bluegrass club meet-up The Egremont 7:00pm 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

FRIDAY 2 Absolutely Fakes Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk Band Friday-Iron Tyger Smugglers Return 8:30pm Never Ever Bloody Anything Ever Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight Wayfinder - Origins with Natural Right The Railway Hotel 8:00pm onwards

SATURDAY 3 Cafe 80s Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk Michael T Clayton (rock n roll) Smugglers Return 8:30pm The Heights / Telecom Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

SUNDAY 4 Rum Festival Weekend with Slowburn vintage reggae and ska Egremont Pub 5:00pm 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

Trev and Jenny Duo Smugglers Return 8:30pm Vulva Underground Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

WEDNESDAY 7

SUNDAY 25

Life Drawing Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-9:30pm

Yi-Yang Chen’s ‘voices’ Interview Concert St Symphorian’s Durrington Hill 2:45pm-5:15pm FB TheInterviewConcerts

THURSDAY 8 Wayfinder - Student Live Music Night The Green room (Thieves Kitchen) 6:00pm to late

FRIDAY 9 Band Friday- Blue Dakota Smugglers Return 8:30pm Linden Pomeroy & Friends Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight Red Heaven Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

SATURDAY 10 Eat The Beat Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk GirlFlix: Lesbian & Queer Women Dance Party Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

TUESDAY 26 George Michael tribute Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk Mel the Pocket Rocket Smugglers Return 8:30pm Wayfinder The Seldon Arms 5:00pm

SUNDAY 18

7celcius Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

Let There Be Rock!

Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

SATURDAY 31

The Defining 10... musical dot-to-dot journey Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-11:00pm

Dirty Shoes Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

FRIDAY 23

Dua Lipa & Sabrina Carpenter tributes Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

SATURDAY 17

Band Friday - original music night Smugglers Return 8:30pm

THURSDAY 22

FRIDAY 16

Band Friday -Wayfinder (folk rock) Smugglers Return 8:30pm

FRIDAY 30

The Absolute 80s Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

Band Friday- The Dole (ska) Smugglers Return 8:30pm

Drum & Bass at the Cellar Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

Folk Club meet-up session Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

Punkish / Noisish Cellar Arts Club 4:00pm-9:00pm

Liz Angioni Smugglers Return 8:30pm

Different Gravy Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk

Johnny Illustration by Arty Mikey

Anna - Arty Mikey

Pogo a Gogo Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight

SATURDAY 24 Alice Band Egremont Pub 01903 530180 www.theegremont.co.uk Carl Hutchinson - Today Year’s Old Tour The Comedy Rooms (1st Floor, Guildbourne Centre) 7:00pm doors open, starts at 8:00pm TheComedyRooms.co.uk

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

Frank from Blue Velvet Cellar Arts Club 7:30pm-midnight Ozzy Wanders - by Arty Mikey

26

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE LIVE LISTINGS /EVENTS

Beany Illustration by Arty Mikey

Jazz Jam (most Wednesdays) The Charles Dickens 7:00pm-9:00pm Open Mic Night (bi-weekly) The Beach House 7:30pm 01903 367313 beachhouseworthing.co.uk Open Mic Night (weekly) The Goose 7:00pm 01903 203851 Insta the.goose.worthing

Groove Aces Smugglers Return 8:30pm

Open Mic NIght with Miss Kate (every Wednesday) The Lock Inn 8:00pm-10:00pm

Half-Term Wrestling Spectacular The Charmandean Centre 7:30pm 01903 239349 www.thecharmandean.co.uk

Pub Trivia Quiz Egremont 8:45pm www.theegremont.co.uk

REGULAR LIVE MUSIC (WEEKLY, BI-WEEKLY, ETC.) SUNDAYS Jazz Sundays (weekly) The Cricketers 6:00pm 01903 233369 www.thecricketers.pub Jazz Sundays with cheeseboard (weekly) The Toad in the Hole 3:00pm-5:00pm Live Jazz (every Sunday) The Charles Dickens 3:00pm-5:00pm Open Mic (every Sunday) The Broadwater 7:00pm – 10:00pm 01903 238675 South Coast Blues Jam (every 3rd Sunday) Original Copy (AudioActive) 2:00pm–5:00pm FB group southcoastbluesjam

THURSDAYS Karaoke and Cocktails (weekly) O’Connors on Warwick Street 8:00pm 01903 206088 FB - OConnorsOnWarwickStreet Thursday Acoustic Sessions (weekly) The Cricketers 8:00pm 01903 233369 www.thecricketers.pub

FRIDAYS Spuntaneous- Live music improv session (bi weekly) Spun Records, 1Portland Rd 7:00pm-11:00pm 07815307218 Sean@drumheadslive.com Insta Seanquinnpercussion Karaoke (bi-weekly) The Golden Lion 8:00pm-11:00pm 01903 245439 www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/westsussex/golden-lion

Worthing Antique Arts and Collectors’ Club Est. 1968, we are a small friendly club that meets on the first Tuesday of the month at Field Place, Durrington, BN13 1NP. Our meeting in May will be on Tuesday 6, and our speaker will be John Griffiths-Colby, public speaker with the subject will be “How far can Retro go?” All are welcome to attend, non members £7.50pp or annual membership £35pp, start time 7:30pm-9:00pm. It was lovely to see so many new faces at the last two meetings, and many new members as well.

To find out more about the club please visit www.worthingantiqueclub. org.uk where you will find a list of the speakers for 2025, including John Benjamin from the BBC’s Antique Roadshow. Or call Andy on 07984 403890

Worthing Film Club

TUESDAYS Open Mic Night (every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month) The Corner House 7:00pm 01903 216463 www.cornerhouseworthing.co.uk

TITLE: The End DIRECTOR: Joshua Oppenheimer ORIGINAL LANGUAGE: English FILM YEAR: 2024 FILM BLURB: A post-apocalyptic story about a rich family living in a salt mine converted into a luxurious home. The earth around them has apparently been destroyed, but their son has never seen the outside world. As a young girl appears at the entrance of the bunker, the balance of the family is threatened.

WEDNESDAYS Drumheads Samba - Community drum group (weekly) Audioactive, 86 Montague St 8pm – 9:30pm 07815307218 Sean@drumheadslive.com Insta Seanquinnpercussion

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing 7:00pm, Tuesday, June 3, 2025 (launching Worthing Festival Fringe) The very best bands, singers and MCs from Worthing/Sussex schools and colleges meet on the Pavilion Theatre stage, (where Jimi Hendrix played in 1967) to play their best song in front of a huge audience. S’koolFest has been running since 2010, and is considered by many to be the most uplifting gig of the year as we see the talent of the future music scene making their first steps before our eyes.

Gabriel Moreno Illustration by Arty Mikey

VENUE: The Connaught Studio DATE: May 19 TICKET: WFC members go free, non members please use website wtm.uk.

Want more info on joining? Email: worthingfilmclub.gmail.com

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

EVENTS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 27

Sussex Gruffs Male Voice Choir COME AND SING WITH US! Due to the choir’s continuing expansion – we now have over 40 members – we have moved our rehearsal venue to a larger space.

We now rehearse in the Shaftesbury Room at Worthing Leisure Centre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Goring-by-Sea, BN12 4ET. We rehearse every Tuesday from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

Sussex Gruffs Male Voice Choir is a community choir, who perform regularly, both to entertain and to raise money for local charities and other worthy causes. We are always happy to welcome new members to our thriving group. We don’t hold auditions, and you don’t need to be able to read music. In addition to singing, we also organize social events for our members and their family and friends to enjoy.

Potential new members can come along to one of our rehearsals on the first Tuesday of every month. If you would like to know more, why not visit our website at: www.sussexgruffsmvc.co.uk

YOU Group This friendly Community Outreach Group welcomes our speaker, Gary Mobsby, on Tuesday, May 20 at 2:30pm, with talk, “ITCHY FEET”, an overland journey from Convent Garden to Columbo. It will be a fascinating insight into the very different lives of others, as seen through the eyes of a young and naive adventurer.

Venue: Main Hall in St Symphorians Parish Centre, BN13 3HU. Cost: £3.50 pp to include refreshments. Please arrive by 2:15pm Further details available from the Parish Office 01903 268109 or Email: theoffice@stsymphorians.co.uk

Broadwater and Worthing Cemetery Military Memories Tour Saturday, May 3 at 11:00am May 8, 2025, will be the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day). To mark that occasion, Broadwater Cemetery’s May tour has been entitled Military Memories. It will include stories about as many as twelve individuals buried in the cemetery who saw service before the Great War right through to World War II. Our free tour will start promptly at 11:00am by the chapels of Broadwater and Worthing Cemetery in South Farm Road. Refreshments are available for a small donation. (Please bring your own cup with you when ordering a tea or coffee from our refreshment stand. Thank you.)

Worthing Twinning Association Worthing Twinning Association will show the 1953 classic French film “Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot” with English subtitles on Thursday, May 8 at 7:00pm.

A charming and funny film featuring the experiences of a confirmed and accident prone bachelor. Cost £5 includes a glass of wine/juice and doughnut.

Non-members welcome, Full details of this and other social events can be found on www. worthingtwinningassociation.org

Durrington Theatrical Society presents the comedy play “Agatha Crusty and the Health Spa Murders”.

Barn Theatre, Field Place, The Boulevard, Worthing, BN13 1NP 7:30pm Wednesday, April 30-Friday, May 2.

Unreserved seating, £14pp www.ticketsource.co.uk/dts Free parking and licensed bar.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

28

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE SPORTS

Thunder’s Elijah Maynard: Henry Parish

After high school, I was planning typical adult stuff – not being a pro player!

P

athways into professional sport quickly become beaten tracks. Basketball is no exception. Players, especially those who end up in Britain from America, can expect to go to high school, earn scholarships to play at college, then, when dreams of being drafted into the NBA slip over the horizon, hunt out opportunities abroad.

Elijah Maynard’s route was anything but conventional. By his own admission, he “didn’t play that well in (Quince Orchard) high school”: he didn’t make the team during his first season; “played alright” as a sophomore and had a “typical high school career” during his junior and senior years.

Maynard was surrounded by basketball growing up. Brought up in Maryland, on America’s east coast, he “instantly gravitated” to the sport with his “dad, cousins and uncles” all playing.

He has come both literally and metaphorically a long way since then. He sits top of England’s highest level of basketball in average points scoring (at time of writing) for Worthing Thunder.

All this follows last season where his Reading Rockets came agonisingly close to winning both the league playoffs and National Cup (his shot, that would’ve sent the playoff final to overtime, rattled in and out the basket; he can afford himself just the slightest chuckle about it now).

What set him down that path to the pinnacle of English basketball? A coach at LA Fitness in America. For readers who are fans of football, imagine a player being recruited into an academy before having a professional career after being spotted playing in the park with his mates. Maynard had no plans to play university basketball, despite a strong desire, even considering “giving up on basketball” altogether.

“I was already planning to go to a junior college, get classes then go to work and, honestly, just do typical adult stuff.” Then came the intervention of Washington Adventist University’s assistant coach.

“One of the assistant coaches was there and saw me playing. He told me, ‘You should come to our school for a workout and see if you like it.’ It was a unique moment in my basketball career because after high school I wanted to play university basketball but didn’t feel I was going to get that opportunity.”

His intention, after a successful university career, was to play basketball professionally. That

One of the assistant coaches was there and saw me playing. He told me, ‘You should come to our school for a workout and see if you like it.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

road ran through the University of East London – associated, Maynard explains, with Barking Abbey basketball club – to study for a master’s degree in sports psychology, not that studying was his priority. “I didn’t finish the degree. That’s something I need to finish,” Maynard told me.

It was at this point conversation turned to this season. The reason for his move last summer from Reading was the opportunity of leading a team. Maynard was second in average scoring last season – albeit only averaging just over half what he has this campaign. “Zaire (Taylor) told me he wanted to put me in a position to excel individually. Obviously, from a team aspect, it hasn’t happened, but I wanted to be able to showcase the skills I know I have. Credit to Reading, they run a great team and a system. I just felt I was boxed in over there.”

Collectively, the season for Thunder has been tough, facing relegation from division one (at time of writing). I ask Maynard what he has made of the season. “It’s buying in and not getting too down on the runs of basketball. There’s going to be times you’re not scoring; you have to stay level-headed. You can’t give up. I feel like we sometimes gave up which is why our record shows what it does. I feel like if we buckled down and grinded out those last couple of minutes, things could have been different.”

I ask Maynard whether Thunder’s position is at least the cause of circumstance, and whether this term been more competitive than those which he has seen before? “Yes and no.

Thinking about the games we’ve played, and the positions we were in, there’s not one game I felt we should have lost. We’d play a good first or second but never complete a full game.”

So, given everything which has happened both individually and collectively this season, does Maynard know what his plans are for next season? “I am not sure yet.”

After watching Michael Schumacher be snapped up by Benetton, Mclaren F1 team principal Ron Dennis famously told the late Eddie Jordan: “Welcome to the piranha club.” Thunder will certainly hope allowing Maynard a season to realise what he’s capable of individually will be enough to tie him down for another season.

One thing is certain, though: many clubs up and down the land will be hunting the American’s signature.

SPORTS INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

29

30

⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ INSIDE DIRECTORY/FEEDBACK

Feedback

Advertiser Index

Letters to the Editor

Carpentry & Handyman Services Hire a Hubby �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 1

INSIDE

Liana Naylor

Ultimate Handyman �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������12

Unit 1, Wayside, Commerce Way, Lancing, BN15 8SW liana@insidepublications.ltd

Carpets & Flooring Burgess Flooring & Blinds Ltd ��������������������������������������������������������������������7 Cleaning Ben Daniels Carpet Cleaning ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 1 Estate Agents & Property Stafford Johnson �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 32 Residential Care Guild Care ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3 Roofing Admiral Building and Roofing Ltd ��������������������������������������������������������������2 Window Repairs & Glazing Top Glass ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12

I have been following the debate between Chris Gould and others on transport, carbon and energy.

Mr. Gould asserts things as “facts” which are not true. For instance he says the fire at Luton airport “was actually a hybrid diesel electric vehicle”.

Please correct this error. The full report is available on the Bedfordshire Fire Service website (https://loom.ly/9frxI_c). The report is over 100 pages long and confirms that “It is clear from the Fire Investigation report that a standard diesel vehicle was the origin of the fire. There is no evidence to demonstrate that the presence of electric vehicles parked in the car park had a detrimental impact on the outcome of the fire.”.

This fire was similar to another devasting fire in Liverpool which was caused by a petrol car and one in a multistorey carpark in Norway which was also confirmed to have been started by a faulty ICE engine.

Best wishes to everyone involved in this great publication.

Regards

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Trident Windows and Doors �����������������������������������������������������������������������5

Benefit from our provable GPS tracked and bespoke service, with no minimum order.

Dear Liana

Andrew Ball

Delivering your brand on FLYERS directly into homes.

If you are interested in distribution or a paper round please contact us on the details below

Choose your area and quantity up to over 48,000 letterboxes

01903 357003 distribution@insidepublications.ltd | www.insidepublications.ltd

Crossword Solutions ACROSS 1 standard. 5 admire. 9 operator. 10 asleep. 12 receptionist.

15 alibi. 16 alternate. 18 evergreen. 19 Delhi. 20 amateurishly. 24 idiocy. 25 baffling. 26 needle. 27 adhesive.

DOWN 1 show. 2 area. 3 deafening. 4 Rio de Janeiro. 6 disco. 7 inevitable. 8 empathetic. 11 Staten Island. 13 laceration. 14 liberalise. 17 Radcliffe. 21 excel. 22 kiwi. 23 ogle.

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME INSIDE ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ 31

Inspirational National Garden Scheme West Sussex Gardens opening in May

A

s May approaches, the weather begins to warm up and the days become longer, the sight of colourful Spring plants and lush greenery can fill you with anticipation and joy. May is a time of hope when everything feels new and full of energy. Whilst there’s still lots to do in the garden this month, make sure to take a step back and admire all you have achieved so far this year. Don’t forget to spend some time visiting some National Garden Scheme gardens. There are plenty of lovely gardens on offer, providing inspirational ideas for planting, friendly advice and of course our now famous home-made tea and cake (many gardens).

New for 2025: Swallow Lodge, St Leonard’s Park and Pigeon Mead House, Earnley HIGHDOWN GARDENS, GORING-BY-SEA Thursday, May 1, 10:00am-8:00pm admission by donation.

THE OLD VICARAGE, WASHINGTON Every Thursday, 10:00am-4:00pm admission £8 pre-booking essential. Monday, May 26, 10:00am-5:00pm, admission £8.

PEELERS RETREAT, ARUNDEL Saturday 3, Tuesday 13, Saturday 17, Tuesday 27 and Saturday 31 May, 2:00pm-5:00pm, admission £5.

THE COTTAGE, PULBOROUGH Friday 16 and Saturday 17 May, 11:00am-5:00pm, admission £6, pre-booking essential.

SWALLOW LODGE, ST LEONARD’S PARK (OPENING FOR THE FIRST TIME) Saturday, May 31, 12:00pm-5:30pm, admission £5, pre-booking essential.

STANLEY FARM, LIPHOOK Sunday, May 4, 12:00pm-5:00pm, admission £5.

PIGEON MEAD HOUSE, EARNLEY (OPENING FOR THE FIRST TIME) Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May, 11:00am4:00pm, admission £6, pre-booking essential.

THE OLD RECTORY, BARNHAM Saturday, May 31, 10:00am-4:00pm, £6 combined admission with The Shrubbery.

TERWICK HOUSE, ROGATE Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May 2:00pm-5:00pm admission, £6.

54 ELMLEIGH, MIDHURST Saturday 24, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 May 11:00am-5:00pm, admission £5.

THE SHRUBBERY, BARNHAM Saturday, May 31, 10:00am-4:00pm, £6 combined admission with The Old Rectory.

FITTLEWORTH HOUSE, FITTLEWORTH Wednesdays, May 7 and 14, 2:00pm-5:00pm, admission, £5.

GROVELANDS, WINEHAM Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May, 10:00am4:30pm, admission £7.

COOKSCROFT, EARNLEY Saturday, May 10, 11:00am-4:00pm, admission £5.

BUMBLE FARM, LOXWOOD Sunday 25 and Monday 26 May, 2:00pm-5:00pm, admission £6.

May is the month when The National Garden Scheme raises awareness of the physical and mental health benefits of gardens and gardening for everyone and of the importance of healthy gardens to wider biodiversity, through its dedicated Gardens and Heath Week, 3 to 11 May.

HAMMERWOOD HOUSE, IPING Sunday, May 11, 1:00pm-5:00pm, admission £6.

CHAMPS HILL, COLDWALTHAM Sunday, May 11, 11:00am-5:00pm, admission £5.

BIGNOR PARK, PULBOROUGH Tuesday, May 13, 2:00pm-5:00pm, admission £5.

WARNHAM PARK, HORSHAM Thursday, May 15, 11:00am-5:00pm, admission £6.

9 PUTTOCK WAY, BILLINGSHURST Sunday 25 and Monday 26 May, 11:00am4:00pm, admission £5

For more information on the National Garden Scheme and information on the benefits of gardening for health and wellbeing visit the National Garden Scheme website https://ngs.org. uk. and download a free copy of the The Little Yellow Book of Gardens and Health 2025.

Online readers can click on this link to look at the interactive National Garden Scheme 2025 Sussex Booklet

01903 357003 | www.insidepublications.ltd

also a positive forestate those who want to sell.

As a well-known agency When there are more buyers theFerring market is operating in Worthing, Goring, more competitive, resulting faster sales and the surrounding areasin for more than a quarter of a century, we have and higher offers. the experience that others may lack.

We have offered a professional and This translates into an ability to read friendly estate agency service in Worthing, the market and give you an accurate Goring, Ferring and the surrounding areas valuation. for more than a quarter of a century. We We then follow thismarket with an have seen the local goinnovative through mix of phases traditional values and many and know how tomodern read the marketing methods right through to a ever-changing market conditions. successful completion.

A unique mix of traditional values and Call me on 01903also 501105, email modern methods sets us apartme from direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk others - call me on 01903 501105, email me or pop into the office at 325 Goring Road direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk BN12 4NX to find out how we can help or pop theproperty. office at 325 Goring Road you sellinto your BN12 4NX to speak in person and find out As we head into Spring things look rosy how canof help you sell your property.

Interest rates arewe one the biggest rolling

Glynde Close, Ferring Thakeham Close, Goring – by –Sea £650,000 £750,000

Glynde Close, Ferring Thakeham Close, Goring – by –Sea

for anyone who isaffect thinking of selling news stories that the property As we head into things lookrolling rosy Interest rates areSpring one ofseen the biggest their home.

2024 has the property for anyone thinking ofof selling market.

Withwho the latest Bank England news stories thatis affect the property market hit the ground running and their home.

2024 hasbase seen the property decision at a 15 market.keeping With the the latest Bankrate of England Yours things show no sign of slowing down in market hit the ground running and sincerely decision keeping the base rate a bad 15 news, year highshow you might thisatis Richard no sign think of slowing down in Davis thethings months ahead. year high youismight think the this is bad news, although this far from case.

MNAEA the months ahead. although this is far from the case.

Industry benchmark data from Industry data The figuresbenchmark that matter arefrom mortgage deals The figuresshows that matter mortgage deals Rightmove thatare average new Rightmove shows that average new and usually the most important are fixed and usually the most important arelast fixed asking prices rose by0.9% 0.9% last Aseller late Easter this year certainly hasn’t delayed seller asking prices rose by rates ones.

InInJanuary theaverage average 5-year rates ones.

January the 5-year month, moving the annual price change month, moving the annual price change the seasonal property market bounce which fixed rate was 4.86%, compared to a peak fixed rate was 4.86%, compared to afigures peak back to being positive after 6 months of back to every beingspring. positive after months of happens In fact the 6 latest of 6.11% inJuly July last year. annual price falls. of 6.11% in last year. annual price falls. from Rightmove show it’s a particularly strong

Heathfield Close, Worthing

£650,000 £750,000

£475,000 Impeccably anddeextended, this chain free detached property sitseasy within a larger Located in a presented tree-lined cul sac, this impressive 2 storey property is within reach of than average forand thelocal areaschools. and is less than half a mile from the beach.

A spacious and Ferring village plot shops Tastefully presented, its versatile layout has ample hugelyfor versatile scope to beaspect extended currently two space a homelayout office has area.further A refined double living(STNC) room and has leaded bayincludes windows superbly sized reception rooms, 2/3 bedrooms and a contemporary shower room.

A classic and a wood burner, while a spacious fully fitted kitchen/dining room opens into a modern country kitchen opens into a generous conservatory leading out to the extensive patio of conservatory. Three generous bedrooms share two bath/shower rooms and a beautiful large a wonderfully large rear garden. Further highlights include feature stained glass windows, garden has private direct access to the greenery of Fernhurst Recreation Ground. driveway and garage parking.

325 Goring Road, Goring By Sea, Worthing, West Sussex, BN12 4NX 01903 501105 | goring@staffordjohnson.co.uk | staffordjohnson.co.uk

So arethis mortgage rates actually lower slight increase simply a time forwhy anyone looking to sell orisbuy alower home.

SoHowever, why arethis mortgage rates actually However, slight is simply thanof the one set by theincrease Bank England? sign healthy activity, as aofmajor trend a than the one set by Bank ofmajor England? sign of healthy activity, ashigher aof trend The answer that asthe they cover aaperiod seems to beis the emergence ‘two Currently sales agreed are 9% than at this speed’ market.

The answer is that as they cover period of years into the future, they have seems be which the emergence oftoaareflect ‘two time lastto year, proves how healthy the Ansuperb exemplary chain free chalet detachedbungalow bungalow inwith a prized Goring-by-Sea cul-dedetached a double garage howismarket. rates will look moving forward - and speed’ of Essentially, years into the future, they have to reflect A market in terms of buyer activity.

However, properties that are being the expectation all round is that even sac with an impressively spacious extended layout and notably large garden.

An exemplary chain free detached bungalow in a prized Goring-by-Sea cul-deandA charming gardens. superbidyllic detached chalet bungalow with a double garage how rates will looksellers moving forward - and is priced accurately are selling, while the number of new coming to market Essentially, properties that are being cheaper mortgage deals are on the horizon. properties areisin left behind to theoverpriced expectation all are round that even also up 8% on the same time 2024, resulting sac with an impressively extended layout and notably large garden. and charming idyllicspacious gardens. priced accurately selling, while languish on the good market forfor a few months That’s obviously news anyone in competition to sell that is the highest level for cheaper mortgage deals are on the horizon. overpriced are leftinbehind before inevitable price reduction. lookingthe to properties buy a property, which turn is to alanguish decade. on the market for a few months Sitting back from a favoured West Tarring cul de sac behind a substantial gravel driveway That’s obviously good news for anyone also a positive for those who want to sell.

As a well-known estate agency framed by palms and conifers, this exceptional 4 bedroom semi-detached property has a before inevitable price reduction.

Whenthe there more buyers the market is is operating in Worthing, Goring, Ferring looking to buy a property, which in as turn Of course this isare great news for buyers they wealth of versatile space. more competitive, resulting in faster sales only and the surrounding areas for more have more choice, while forwho sellers it means also a positive for those want to sell.

As aand well-known estate agency than a quarter of a century, we have higher offers. one thing - you must pricebuyers competitively.

When there more the market is operating inare Worthing, Goring, Ferring the experience that others may lack.

We have offered a professional and more competitive, resulting in faster sales into anareas abilityfor to read andThis thetranslates surrounding more With mortgage rates onlyservice slightly than this friendly estate agency in lower Worthing, the market and give you an accurate than a quarter of a century, andGoring, higher offers. time last year affordability is still awe keyhave issue and Ferring and the surrounding areas valuation. the experience that others may lack. more than a quarter of a century. getting your property on the market atWe the right Wefor have offered a professional and This translates into antoability to read We then follow thismarket with an have seen thein local goinnovative through price is essential order get the best offers friendly agency service in Worthing, mix ofestate traditional values and the market and give you an accurate many phases and know how tomodern read the leading on to a successful sale.

Goring, Ferring and the surrounding marketing methods right through to aareas

valuation. ever-changing market conditions.

successful completion. for more than a quarter of serving a century.

We As independent estate agents A unique mix of this traditional values andthe local We then follow with an innovative have seen the local market go through Call me on 01903 501105, email community for morealso than a quarter of a century modern methods sets us apartme from mix of phases traditional values and modern direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk many and know how read the we know our patch very well.

Weto have the others - call me on 01903 501105, email me or pop into the officeright at 325through Goring Road marketing methods to a ever-changing market conditions. direct atand richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk experience knowledge that allows us BN12 4NXcompletion. to find out how we can help to give successful or pop into the office at 325 Impeccably anddeextended, this chain free detached property sitseasy within a larger youyou an accurate valuation - weGoring don’tRoad just pick a Located in a presented tree-lined cul sac, this impressive 2 storey property is within reach of sellmix your property.

A unique of traditional values and than average plot forand thelocal areaschools. and is less than half a mile from the beach.

A spacious and BN12out 4NXoftothin speak inand person and find out Ferring village shops Tastefully presented, its versatile layout has ample number air hope for the best!

Call me on 01903 501105, email me

modern methods alsosell sets usproperty. apart from how we can help you your direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk

others Goring - call me onwest 01903 501105, email me Ferring, and Worthing have their or pop into the office at 325 Goring Road own unique characteristics when it comes to direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk BN12 4NX to find out how we can help selling homes.the It’soffice all about the Goring little details, or pop at 325 Roadthe you sellinto your property.

Yours sincerely ones that you know about ifand you’d lived and BN12 4NX toonly speak in person find out Richard Davis worked here many how we canfor help youyears. sell your property.

MNAEA

Call me personally on 01903 501 105, email me direct at richard@staffordjohnson.co.uk or visit our office at 325 Goring Road BN12 4NX and let me tell you how we really aresincerely your local Yours property experts.

Richard Davis Yours sincerely Richard Davis MNAEA

MNAEA

Scan to arrange an up to date valaution of your property

SJ_Advert_Heathfield Close 260x335_APRIL 2025.indd 1

hugelyfor versatile scope to beaspect extended currently two space a homelayout office has area.further A refined double living(STNC) room and has leaded bayincludes windows superbly sized reception 2/3 fully bedrooms and a contemporary shower room.

A classic and a wood burner, while rooms, a spacious fitted kitchen/dining room opens into a modern country kitchen opens into a generous conservatory leading out to the extensive patio of conservatory. Three generous bedrooms share two bath/shower rooms and a beautiful large a wonderfully large rear garden. Further highlights include feature stained glass windows, garden has private direct access to the greenery of Fernhurst Recreation Ground. driveway and garage parking. cul Impeccably anddeextended, this chain free detached property sitseasy within a larger Located in a presented tree-lined sac, this impressive 2 storey property is within reach of

than average forand thelocal areaschools. and is less than half a mile from the beach.

A spacious and Ferring village plot shops Tastefully presented, its versatile layout has ample

hugely versatile further scope to be extended currently two 325 Goring Road, By Sea,has Worthing, West Sussex, BN12 4NXliving(STNC) space for a Goring homelayout office area.

A refined double aspect room and has leaded bayincludes windows superbly sized reception rooms, 2/3 bedrooms and a contemporary shower room.

A classic 01903and 501105 | goring@staffordjohnson.co.uk | staffordjohnson.co.uk a wood burner, while a spacious fully fitted kitchen/dining room opens into a modern

Impeccablykitchen extendedopens to create a spacious two storey layout, the notable proportions of this stylish chalet bungalow country into a generous conservatory leading out to the extensive patio of conservatory.

Three generous bedrooms share two rooms and a beautiful have been superbly extended.

Situated in a prized location near bath/shower to local schools, commuter routes and villagelarge shops, a wonderfully large rear garden.

Further highlights include feature stained glass windows, it has an excellent livingdirect room with a wood an outstanding kitchen/dining room opening onto the decked garden has private access to burner, the greenery of Fernhurst Recreation Ground. driveway and garage parking. terrace of attractive gardens, and both garage and driveway parking.

325 Goring Road, Goring By Sea, Worthing, West Sussex, BN12 4NX 01903 501105 | goring@staffordjohnson.co.uk | staffordjohnson.co.uk Prefer to keep your private life...private? Rather than rely on branded cars and For Sale signs our discreet marketing methods offer a dedicated service for those who would rather choose whether they let their neighbours know they’re planning to move.

Call Richard on 01903 501 105 for details.

08/04/2025 16:55