Ashdown Forest Living February Edition

February 2012

‘The Hell of the Ashdown’ Bike Ride History Notes: Balcombe Viaduct 100 years ago, this year...

Front cover painting by Juliet Murray, see advert on page 13 Call 01342 300152 to advertise

Business Directory & Community Magazine

serving the Residents of Ashdown Forest & nearby

17,000 copies delivered Door to Door Covering:

Nutley, Forest Row, Danehill, Chelwood Gate, Lindfield, Crowborough (West), Groombridge, Ashurst, Coleman’s Hatch, Fletching, Hartfield, Upper Hartfield, Frant, Sheffield Green, Hadlow Down, Wivlesfield, Maresfield and other places in & around the Ashdown Forest Area

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All Prices Exclude VAT. Free Delivery for orders over £150 + VAT • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living Mstc-A5-PriceBuster-feb12.indd 1

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

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Flat roof boarding Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 •

Dear Residents,

Index:

Welcome to the next edition of the Ashdown Forest Living.

Accountant/ Book-Keeping

Our ‘History Notes’ this month is a fascinating article about nearby Balcombe Viaduct, a Victorian masterpiece brought to us courtesy of local author, Alexandra Ayton.

TNMC Business Services

Cyclists will be arriving in droves this February for the amazingly popular ‘Hell of the Ashdown’ Bike Ride through the area, see our article.

We feature a hidden treasure of Ashdown Forest, the Briars Centre, which exposes the fascinating habitat to scores of budding explorers throughout the year.

Top Hockey Olympian, Ashley Jackson, of nearby East Grinstead Hockey Club tells us his hopes for Summer 2012 plus more.

Thank you for any support given to our local businesses and please mention us when you call.

We welcome all feedback.

Support Local Business

David Fry

Food/Drink

Juliet Murray, Cogcrafts Concepts 13

Laurel Tree Farm Shop 15 Wiltshire Farm Food 23 Eridge Park Farm Shop 7

Beauty Pretty Permanent Make-Up

9

Blinds

Garden/Landscape

Penumbra Blinds 16 Blinds & Curtains 25 Chez Soi Interiors 25

LG Burberry Landscape Contractors /Tree Surgeons 29 Richards Fencing 30 LM Garden Machinery 11 Country Estate Management 29 Sargents Tree Services 31 JH Vartan 29

Café/Function Venue/ Restaurant/Bar Brambletye Hotel

7

Car Scuffs Sussex 21 Nutley Motor Services Ltd. 21

Care 11

Children Nanny Angels Blackland Farm

5 9

Cleaning

Contents

Cleaning 5 Black Maids 5 Ovenaid 27 Dirty Ovens 27

Recipe

6

History Notes: Balcombe Viaduct

10,12

Clothes

Hockey Olympian, Ashley Jackson

18

Dental

100 Years Ago, Terra Nova Expedition

20

Riverview Dental Centre

Hidden Treasure, Briars Centre

22

Quiz, Sudoku

24

Hell of the Ashdown

26

What’s On

28

This publication uses vegetable based inks on chlorine free paper Ashdown Forest Living Notice: Ashdown Forest Living prints various articles, features, and advertisements. Although these appear in Ashdown Forest Living, any opinions expressed are the opinion of the author, these are not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. © Copyright Ashdown Forest Living 2011. The contents of this publication are written specifically for our readers, no part may be reproduced elsewhere without express and prior permission.

• February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

17

Art

TLC Nurses

With Best Wishes, Tally & Chris The Ashdown Forest Living Team

6

Architects

Counsellor 27 Kate Humphries, Counsellor 27 Reconnective Healing 11 Hire Fitness 23

Suitables

19

8

Computer The Computer Studio 21

Doors Sussex Doors

13

Home Maintenance Services/Products Co Prob Refurbishment 17 CEC Electrical Services 11 EPH Plumbing & Heating 13 Baileybridge Construction 14 Mid Sussex Timber 2 Fernwood Polishing 17 MRJ Electrical Services 9 MRM Plastering 25 MM Roofing 16 AI Plumbing 25 Kitchens Bespoke 17

Offices for Rent Pippingford Manor 6

Hair

Tuition

Masters in Barbering 24

French Tuition German Tuition

Heating Oil

9 9

Geoff Boorman Fuels 29

Weightloss

Health/Wellbeing/ Fitness

Rachel Ricketts 32

Lotte Berk Fitness Studio 19 Atlas Profilax 11 Family Chiropractic Clinic 19 Mel Clarkson,

Duke Window Services Sussex Windows & Doors Co Prop Window Installers

Windows

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

16 13 17

The Ashdown Forest Living has grown from strength to strength with the majority of our customers continually renewing because our advertising has proven results. at now th t you k g, our le o t d in te rest Liv st wan We “We ju t Asdown Fo y different. r u e o v h k graphic o o wit lo m e ld d ss wou g the rural esents busine u repr accessin end with yo he business n o ly re et, t ur sp hole. hilst o r budg and w e 30% of ou 75% of the w e m k o ore li only s ed is m rk! “ acquir od wo the go p u p Kee & Mel Helena rses u N C TL

“I jumped at the chance to have an ad in the ‘Ashdown living’ wh en I heard about it. The fact that it is del ivered by the Royal Mail means it gets to all those properties in and around the Ash down Forest area that are hard to reach.

This was proved to me when I won a job in Crowborough, at a house with 1km drivew ay! I’ve had great results advertising in this publication and will continue to do so for as long as it is around.”

Matt Merrell, MRM Plastering and Bui lding

ASHURST

HARTFIELD

GROOMBRIDGE BELLS YEW GREEN

FRANT

FOREST ROW

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Supporting the Ashdown Forest Area & supporting local charities & communities

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Black Maids Bespoke Commercial & Domestic Cleaning Service

Daily, Weekly, Monthly One-Offs Contracts After Tenancy Professional & Reliable Service

Reliable and friendly family run domestic cleaning company here for all your cleaning needs, no job to big or small based in uckfield and catering for the surrounding areas. call us today for a no obligation quote

Contact Linda on:

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www.thelittlecleaning-company.co.uk

01892 664696 / 07733 353236

or alternatively you can visit our website

Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 •

Gorgonzola cheese with thyme-infused honey & roast peaches Serves 8

Recipe by Chef

Dean Samsudin

at the Brambletye Hotel

Ingredients 4 Peaches 3 oz unsalted butter 16 sticks of fresh thyme plus 4 for infused honey 8 tbsp honey, plus 2-3 tbsp for drizzling 8 slices gorgonzola cheese, or quantity according to taste

A very simple and pretty dish, the elements work together brilliantly.

It’s important all components are served at room temperature.

Method 1. Pre-heat oven to 200 C/400 F/Gas Mark 6 2. Halve and stone the peaches and sit them comfortably together, cut side up, in an ovenproof dish.

3. Place a generous knob of butter and some whole branches of thyme on each peach half. Drizzle with honey and roast until the flesh seems to just about to collapse and the peaches are nicely caramelised. The length of time depends on how ripe the peaches are, roughly 15 minutes.

4. Going on 1 tbsp per person and ½ branch thyme each, put more honey in a saucepan with thyme and gently heat, do not boil, for 10 mins. Cool.

5. Place a piece of gorgonzola on each plate, drizzle with cooled infused honey and place half a peach on each plate, serve.

The Personal Local Book-keeping Service

Does the thought of filling in your Self-Assessment Tax Return fill you with dread?

Paperwork stopping you from making your business work?

Business papers in a box waiting for tomorrow to come?

Do you want to make time for you?

If you can answer “YES!” to any of the above call James at: TNMC Business Services 01825 722601 or 07753 821128 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

OFFICES TO RENT

PIPPINGFORD MANOR ALL INCLUSIVE PRICES START FROM £250 PER MONTH PLUS VAT Base your business in a friendly business community at the centre of Ashdown Forest in a beautiful setting From 100 sqft, 1 person rooms upwards Call: 01825 712966 • info@pippingford.co.uk

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

Brambletye_AFL_95x132_JAN2012_voucher

13/12/11

10:52

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Brambletye Hotel Black Peters Bar & Restaurant

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Visit our website www.brambletyehotel.co.uk BRAMBLETYE HOTEL, THE SQUARE, LEWES ROAD, FOREST ROW, EAST SUSSEX RH18 5EZ

Tel: 01342 824144 Email: hotel@brambletyehotel.co.uk AFL

We stock all the perfect ingredients you require for a romantic valentines day meal

Well stocked meat counter supplied by our award winning tenant farmers a Rare Breed Pork, Beef, Lamb and Seasonal Game a

On site butchers always on hand to meet your specific requirements a Seasonal fruit and vegetables a

Finest selection of local cheeses and artisan produce Opening times

Find us

Contact us

9am - 6pm

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t – 01892 614 711

We are on twitter! @lucy_EPFS

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Sign up for our email newsletter at:

www.eridgeparkfarmshop.co.uk

Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 •

SPECIAL OFFER

For a Limited period only: Introductory 25% off all Cosmetic Treatments Cosmetic Treatments including in Surgery Tooth Whitening and Filler Therapies

Simply quote this advert at the reception in one of our branches

• February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

Face the world with conFidence Overplucked eyebrows or lips lost definition?

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Enjoy learning

German the easy way

with native, qualified, patient tutor • Tailored to your needs and time • For travel, business & all exams • Conversation practice groups All levels welcome • CRB checked Please call Elisabeth:

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FRENCH TUITION Adults & Children

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 •

History Notes

�

Blood, Sweat and Tears on the

Balcombe Viaduct

Here is a fabulous extract from the book, ‘Sussex Remembered’ by Local Lindfield author Alexandra Ayton about the Victorian marvel, the Balcombe Ouse Valley Viaduct, nearby Haywards Heath.

I

t would be hard to find a more magnificent Victorian railway structure than the Balcombe Ouse Valley Viaduct, which today carries thousands of rail commuters on the London to Brighton line in Sussex.

Designed by the engineer John Urpeth Rastrick in conjunction with the architect David Mocatta for the London and Brighton Railway, it is considered one of the most elegant viaducts in the country.

The structure was built over the River Ouse from 1839 to 1841 as part of the original London to Brighton line. It is 1,475ft (450m) long with 37 semicircular brick arches with pierced piers. Each arch is 37ft wide and the tallest is 97ft high.

Engineering Timelines records that ‘The piers are tapered both sides and end-on and divided in two by 10ft wide weight-saving voids, which are capped by six-ring brick arches. Thus the whole has a slender appearance.’

David Mocatta designed the eight classical stone and brick pavilions, four on each end and a stone balustrade on the viaduct. The viaduct is probably one of the finest examples of the Victorian railway system. It not only looks impressive, but it connected Sussex and the Sussex coast with London quickly and efficiently for the first time.

10 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

Red bricks were imported from Holland. The bricks and all the materials were transported by barge up the then navigable Ouse (now no more than a stream in many places) via Lewes and the port of Newhaven 25 miles away. This was no mean feat, as the viaduct was constructed using 11 million bricks! By the mid 19th century horse drawn stagecoaches had been replaced by railway mania, then at its height.

Huge armies of labourers (navvies) travelled the country looking for rail construction work. More than 250,000 navvies throughout Britain worked on railway constructions such as the Balcombe Viaduct. Navvies were a tough breed of Irish immigrants, Scots and men from Lancashire and Yorkshire. They were capable of undertaking physically demanding and dangerous work such as the construction of the Balcombe Viaduct, working in all weathers using picks, shovels, a wheelbarrow and a barrel of gunpowder.

Hardened navvies could move up to 20 tonnes of earth a day working long hours at greater and greater speeds, with little regard for their personal safety. Local farm labourers were very rarely recruited, as they were not strong enough, and inexperienced navvies often worked for half a day at first until they had built up enough stamina for longer hours. The work was so physically

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

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Nursing Care in the Comfort of your own home

TLC Nurses Helena & Melanie offer a local caring & friendly nursing service in the comfort of your own home.

• General nursing & respite care.

• Post discharge from hospital & help after an illness or fall.

• Personalised for your needs, no job too small.

• Helena & Melanie are fully qualified nurses with 25 years experience.

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We offer practical help to assist you to maintain quality of life.

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L M GARDEN MACHINERY Feeling out of balance, stuck or adrift on your life path?

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Then come and experience a Reconnective Healing™ session for yourself To make an enquiry or an appointment please contact me on: E: thesevencolours@aol.com T: 07778 388 230 Sessions are available in Uckfield, East Sussex.

Sheila Smith, Member of the British Holistic Medical Association The UK Group of Reconnective Healing™ and The Reconnection Practitioners™

www.reconnectionpractitioners.co.uk

CEC Electrical Specialists Ltd All Electrical Works

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 11

followed, making them even more unpopular with the locals. Many navvies died in their early 40s as a result of the harsh nature of the work.

The Balcombe Viaduct opened when the Norwood Junction–Haywards Heath section was completed on 12th July 1841. The second section of the line between London and Brighton was completed in September 1841. It took over three years, 3,500 men and 570 horses to build the entire London to Brighton railway at a cost of £2,634,059 (£57,262 per mile). During this time a thousand navvies, some with families, set up camp in and around the villages of Balcombe, Cuckfield, Ardingly, Horsted Keynes and Lindfield.

demanding that the men ate enormous meals to keep up their energy, something the contractors were quick to exploit by selling them food at inflated prices.

The navvies, some accompanied by their wives and children, gathered in huge groups by or near the railway under construction, living in shanty towns and primitive cabins capable of sleeping up to twenty men. Others lived in improvised shelters of mud, timber and tarpaulins, whilst some slept in the open air.

Some navvies found lodgings in local villages, often to the dismay of the locals. When ‘going on a randy’ – navvy slang for getting drunk – they also swore like navvies, something that displeased the local community who feared their rough and ready ways.

They were employed by contractors responsible for the whole line or subcontractors building a section of the route. Alternatively, ‘gangers’ might employ them, sometimes on a day rate or for an agreed piecework price.

Work paid much more than factory jobs and twice that of farm work. Once a month they received their wages from the local pub, an arrangement that suited the publican but no one else.

Womanizing, swearing and accidents on the job 12 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

The impact of the new Brighton–London line was so great that between 1841 and 1871 large numbers of people moved to Brighton, resulting in the population swelling from 46,661 to 90,011.

The quick and relatively cheap third class travel in open-topped rail carriages enabled 360,000 people to travel to Brighton by train in 1843.

After the last war, there was a period of neglect until the 1980s. This was remedied when the British Railways Board established the Railway Heritage.

The Trust in 1985 in an effort to preserve Britain’s Victorian railway heritage.

Railtrack Plc repaired and restored the viaduct between 1996 and 1999 with grants from the Railway Heritage Trust and English Heritage. The original stone from Caen in Normandy had been exhausted; therefore matching stone was imported from Auxerre in France to repair the existing balustrades and pavilions, all without disrupting the trains travelling across the viaduct.

On 8th May 1983, the Balcombe Viaduct was made a Grade II listed building. A working viaduct, some 220 modern high-speed trains pass over the Ouse Valley every day giving commuters some of the best views of Sussex, all made possible by the navvies who worked on it through blood, sweat and tears.

The book Sussex Remembered is stocked locally in The Bookstop, Lindfield, The Bluebell Railway and at selected bookstores in Sussex & on Amazon.co.uk.

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

Stunning Local Art by Juliet Murray Winter blues? Treat yourself - Hang a summer’s day on your wall …….

 Worcester Bosch boiler changes from £1500 Inc.  Boiler servicing, repairs and breakdowns.  Gas appliance installation and servicing.  Full bathroom design and installation service.  Cylinders both vented and unvented.  Comprehensive boiler service £60 (plus parts if required)  Friendly, prompt and reliable service.  Gas Safe registered. Fully Insured. No call out charge.  Ring for free no obligation friendly advice or quotation.

Full picture framing service & friendly advice from this long established artist.

10% off limited editions with this ad.

Tel: 01892 750124 / 07972 172609

E-Mail: william.court2@btinternet.com Web: www.eridgeplumbingandheating.co.uk

Cogcraft Concepts, Forest Bank Farm, Clockhouse Lane, Nutley TN22 3NZ Come & browse: 01825 712565

Details/On-line Gallery:www.cogcraft.co.uk

SussexSurrey Doors and Windows

Come and see our fantastic new products including our new alternative to wooden window range.

Vast range of colours available.

PVCu, Aluminium, Steel, Timber & Composite Doors 0808 1081666 • 01403 259054 • www.SussexSurrey.com Showroom: 35 Queen Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 5AA Company Registered as Sussex Doors Ltd

Plastic Windows Federation

Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 13

Baileybridge is run by Sue Risley who has over 30 years experience in the field.

Sue provides exceptional attention to detail and is personally involved with all projects.

Sue’s fundamental approach to the service the company provides “is to provide a service as good as, or better than, one she would wish to receive herself and always to go that extra mile” Baileybridge is in the service industry – the business is all about offering exceptional service in every respect.

Tel: 01825 714 922 www.baileybridge.co.uk

Here we ask Sue a few questions about her business:

What started you off in the refurbishment and construction business?

I was born into it. My father bought and renovated properties and my first recollection of being interested was at the age 4 when, in my mind, I designed and then began to build a ‘house’ in my parents garden, out of some old bricks I found laying around – I got no further than 5 along and 2 high – not surprisingly!

I then made a proper attempt with my first property aged 18, which was a total refurbishment which I largely did myself, learning as I went. I have always had a good ‘eye’ and can see the finished result right at the outset. I bought and sold a few more properties and experienced plenty of bad service and bad manners renovating these; which was a very easy lesson in ‘how to treat a Client’ – mainly the opposite to what I had often being on the receiving end of.

What services do Baileybridge provide?

We provide a turn-key service – starting with a Client’s vision we can ‘put this down on paper’ (drawings), take it through planning and building control, build it, fit it, decorate it and provide the soft furnishings.

Clients can hand their project to us at any stage and we hand it back finished. If they don’t want to – Clients do not have to do, or organise anything what-so-ever.

Our aim with every project is perfection, which we achieve.

We provide all skills in-house which is efficient, convenient and cost effective for Clients.

Sue hand-holds the Client and manages the project, from first introduction to completion of the work.

14 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

Providing a turnkey solution for all of your refurbishment needs: Interior design

Home entertainment

Architectural design & planning permission

Structural engineering & building control submission

Project Management

Bathrooms

Loft and outbuilding/garage conversions

Kitchens

Refurbishment & extensions

Landscaping

Equestrian construction

Curtains & blinds

Baileybridge is run by Sue Risley who has over 25 years experience in the field. Sue provides exceptional attention to detail and is personally involved with all projects. We work to any budget and always provide stunning results.

Telephone 01825 714 922 : www.baileybridge.co.uk : email: enquiries@baileybridge.co.uk

Pets in crisis – can you help?

We have teamed up with Dogs Trust to help give families the chance to escape from domestic abuse by providing safe refuge for their pets giving peace of mind that their cat is well, healthy and safe.

If you care about cats and people, get involved with the Freedom Project today.

We are looking for volunteer cat fosterers, drivers, home visitors and fundraisers.

For more details, please contact: T: 01825 741 973 E: freedom.project@cats.org.uk W: www.cats.org.uk/freedom-project Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

• Apple Logs • Kindling Wood Honey • Pressed Apple Juice • Free Range Eggs • Many Varieties of Apples and Pears Visit our Fruit Farm Shop for a selected range of local products

01892 661637

On the A26 at Boar’s Head, East Sussex TN6 3HD Open Weekdays 10.00 am to 4.00pm

Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 15

M. M. Roofing Contractor Specialists in:

Tiling - Slating - Flat Roofing Lead Work & Lead Welding

Repairs & Fibreglass Installation "I have employed Matt over the past year on several different small construction projects.

He has very good experience in all areas of roofing. I have found his work to be of the highest standard and have found Matt to be hardworking and a pleasure to deal with" Steve Huxley, ILEX (Quality Oak Buildings, Chartered Landscape Architects)

MOBILE:

07834 917444 01342 301972

TELEPHONE:

EMAIL: MattGarrett17@aol.com

YOUR LOCAL BLIND COMPANY!

AZZA TERR

Penumbra Blinds & Solar Control Ltd are specialists in design, manufacture, supply & installation of a huge range of Internal & External blinds & Awnings, many produced at our Pembury factory.

For a free, no obligation quotation and survey or to visit our fully equipped showroom please call:-

01342 349819

(Sales)

01892 825522

(Factory)

or

Tel: 01892 825522 E-mail: info@penumbrablinds.com www.penumbrablinds.com Unit 2 Albans Farm, Romford Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells TN2 4BB 16 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

WITH COMPLIMENTS www.kitchensbespoke.co.uk

88 London Road East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 1EP Tel: 01342 313133 Fax: 01342 322053

Kitchens Bespoke, based in East Grinstead is the brainchild of Rachael Workman a designer for over 17 years. Three years ago she decided to set up a ‘one stop shop’ to help clients create their perfect kitchen and she has not looked back.

Rachael has found that being a female designer gives her an edge. ‘’I design from a practical view point.

Most people who use kitchens are women and I can relate to the need to balance aesthetics with function’’ She works to her client’s budget and is always testing new products and materials to see what works, saving time and money for her customers.

Kitchens Bespoke can also attend to lighting, decoration, flooring and building works if necessary. The work ‘bespoke’ refers to the design process itself and Rachael says that her kitchens are more affordable than you may think. And expensive look doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Rachael can design a kitchen that fits you. With your needs and her expertise the kitchen you have only imagined can become reality.

Call for a free quotation & advice call 01342 313133 Visit their showroom: 88 London Road, East Grinstead

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 17

British Hockey Olympian

Ashley Jackson

With Olympic fever rising month on month in the run up to Summer, we profile Ashley Jackson, the first British Player ever to win the Federation of International Hockey’s Young Player of the Year Award in 2009. A leading light in the world of hockey, he also plays for East Grinstead’s Premier-league winning Hockey Club.

You’ve been a member of East Grinstead Hockey Club for a while, why did you choose it & what makes it special?

When I was around 14 years old I (and my father) had a decision to make, it was time to move on from my first hockey club Tunbridge Wells HC and the chosen destination was East Grinstead HC. It is special to me because of how welcoming they were and what friends/family I have around the club, it is my home really.

Personal Profile questions: Year of Birth & Birthplace?

1987, Kent When did you joined East Grinstead Hockey Club?

2005, rejoined professionally: 2010/11

What are your personal hopes for the British team?

Well obviously my hopes are that we will end up with a gold medal and that everyone from team mates to my girlfriend and family members can enjoy the moment.

Who or where do you draw inspiration from?

I guess its more who do I draw it from, we spend so many hours, days, weeks, months and for some of the group 6-10 years together; it is very easy to look around and be inspired by the person standing next to you in your squad.

That person or persons are more than just team mates. For this group we have had a lot of experiences and I’m sure like many other teams more bad than good but it’s the sharing of the experiences and getting out the other side together stronger that inspires us.

Outside of the group my girlfriend Eli and my brother Wesley are always there for some inspirational chat and a different perspective that comes from outside the squad. Also mum and dad have been there from the very start.

Major Honours?

2009 European Champions, 2009 World Young Player of the Year. 2009 and 2010 World All-Star Team Highlight of the last year?

Many hours spent with Michelle Pearson (strength and conditioner) and Laura Hanna (physio) while being out injured and then returning from injury after 8 and a half months out.

Eli (girlfriend) returning after 6 months travelling.

Any message to young potential professional sports players in this area?

My first under par round shooting 70, -1. (golf).

Take each day as it comes, no regrets. Love what you do and who you do it with. Work hard and enjoy yourself.

Golf.

Favourite hobby?

Favourite Film?

Who are your Local Sponsors?

BMW cooper Tunbridge Wells who are an absolute pleasure to work with, would like to say thank you to Nikki Pipe and to everyone down there. Also to Sweetwoods Park Golf Club, and Grays my equipment sponsor.

Hangover, Remember the Titans, Any Given Sunday.

Favourite Song?

Love Walked in by Thunder.

© Photographs John O’Brien: www.johnobrien.com

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Free Parking • Affordable Prices • Friendly Service Old Station House, London Road, East Grinstead, RH19 1ET Tel: 01342 315298 Website: www.familychiropracticsussex.co.uk Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 19

100 Years Ago

this year…

Robert Falcon Scott’s

2012 is the Centenery of Robert Falcon Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition to Antartica.

In January 1912 Scott & his 5 man team reached the South Pole, only to discover he had been preceded by Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen 33 days earlier.

Although the return journey started well, by the end of February the temperatures plummeted.

By March time the worsening foot condition of team member Lawrence Oates was slowing his companions, he stepped outside their tent in a raging blizzard, saying, “I am just going outside and I may be some time”, he did not return.

This act of sacrifice with his famous words has since then entered the world of literature and art in various guises.

Scott’s diary entries states: ‘We knew that Oates was walking to his death... it was the act of a brave man and an English gentleman’.

However, his sacrifice was not enough to save the others. They struggled on to a point 11

miles south of their supplies Depot, their efforts dashed by a fierce, unrelenting blizzard.

In the end their supplies ran out. Scott’s last diary entry, dated 29 March 1912, the presumed date of their deaths, ends with these words: ‘Every day we have been ready to start for our depot 11 miles away, but outside the door of the tent it remains a scene of whirling drift. I do not think we can hope for any better things now. We shall stick it out to the end, but we are getting weaker, of course, and the end cannot be far. It seems a pity but I do not think I can write more. R. Scott.

For God’s sake look after our people’.

Athough ill-fated it is nevertheless one of most well-known & celebrated expeditions in history. It will be marked this year with many events across Great Britain. Visit: www.scott100.org to find these events.

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 21

Hidden treasure in the forest Tucked away, deep in Pooh Coutry, is The Briars Field Centre at the entrance to Ashdown Forest. Run by Hilary and Dick Rowberry, it is established as a private, voluntary run centre for environmental activities and aims to contribute to conservation and education; as well as offering environmental activity awards. Composed of 4 1/2 acres of meadow, hedgerow and woodland it has developed into a well regarded resource for local schools, RSPB junior groups, scouts, etc.

The grounds cover a range of habitats including ponds, meadow, hedgerow studies, woodland exploration, composting and recycling. It is open one day a week to visiting groups throughout the year, with different seasonal activities available.

We ask Hilary & Dick Rowberry some questions about the centre: Who or What inspired you to start the Briars?

As science teachers in London we always wanted to run our own outdoor centre and encourage children to understand and care for their environment. When we moved to Sussex we had the chance to put our ideas into practice.

What’s the highlight of running the centre?

Sharing the changing seasonal activities with visiting children, watching their delight as they discover tracks/minibeasts and other wildlife evidence. We also enjoy working alongside volunteers from The East Grinstead Mental Health Association who take great pride in carrying out conservation work at the Centre as part of a “Green Therapy”. The fresh air, physical work and social opportunities have very positive results.

What’s the hardest part about running it?

Managing hedges, ditches, woodland and meadow and having to deal with deer damage.

What feedback have you had over the years?

Children visit year after year and our RSPB Youth leaders, now 17+, have been with us since they were small children!

What’s the most special thing about Ashdown Forest?

The variety of habitats and wildlife; as well as its changing beauty throughout the year.

The Briars Field Centre Cotchford Lane, Hartfield, East Sussex TN7 4DN Email: briars@aol.com Tel: (01892) 770478

GET FIT IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME Michael Wall, established his Hire Fitness business 3 years ago & has built up a large portfolio of clients hiring & selling fitness equipment for use in the home He also supplies commercial equipment to gyms, offices, salons and studios.

People are increasingly choosing to hire in their homes for many reasons, most often for convenience & lack of time or inclination to go the gym.

Parents can also look after their children whilst they exercise at home. All Hire Fitness models are of the highest quality, robust, good looking, with excellent computer functions.

There is a hire- to- buy scheme where clients can try a machine prior to making a purchase. The Power Plate is his most popular model, it can burn 350 calories in 10 minutes. Other benefits include cellulite busting, improved blood circulation, stronger bones but most of all – improved toning.

Call Michael at Hire Fitness on 0845 094 2292 or 07932 139386 or email on mwall@hirefitness.co.uk www.hirefitness.co.uk “Before I contacted Hire Fitness, I was not feeling good about myself, and was rather overweight. I am really busy and don’t have time to go to the gym. I hired 3 pieces of equipment for 3 months and Michael kindly threw in the rower for free. It has been hard work but really satisfying to lose weight and to have a new outlook on life.

Even my wife says that she quite fancies me, so that can’t be bad! Thank you Hire Fitness.” Jamie, Sussex

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 23

Quick Quiz

can you ge t

10 out of 10?

1: What is the longest river in Europe?

2: The Shogun was a military dictator of which country?

3: ‘He ain’t heavy he’s my brother’, was a hit for which band in 1969?

4: Eric Arthur Blair is the real name of which famous pen name?

5: The birthplace of Rugby, Rugby School, is in which English County?

6: Which new band did Mick Jagger form in 2011?

7: The Football Premier League was formed in which year?

8: The Chrysler Building is in which American city?

9: Which Male singer is the biggest selling singles artist of all time in the UK? 10: Dr Who first appeared on TV in which year?

Answers on page 25

Sudoku LOVERS

24 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

“If we open a quarrel between the past and the present, we shall find we have lost the future.” Winston Churchill “In this world there are only two tragedies.

One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.” Oscar Wilde

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Bespoke, Hand Made Blinds, Curtains & Soft Furnishings Tina of Chez Soi Interiors has extensive experience in all aspects of soft furnishings.

Most of her work comes through word of mouth, with customers local to the Ashdown Forest area. From small blind to the complete design of a house, she prides herself on giving a professional, one-to-one service. Highly experienced,Tina can offer help & recommend styles, fabrics, etc.

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01342 301060 Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 25

Go to HELL cyclists!

By Bryan Stout

On Sunday 26th February don’t be surprised when you see 1,500 cyclists wend their way over Ashdown Forest. They will be taking part in the HELL of the Ashdown Challenge promoted by the Catford Cycling Club. A 100K charity bike ride from Biggin Hill to Ashdown Forest and Back. It is a tough, testing Challenge which tackles a hilly route involving 4,580ft of climbing – higher than Ben Nevis! This includes the infamously steep Kidds Hill, referred to by cyclists as ‘The Wall’, when they struggle up to the heights of Ashdown Forest. Which is where the HELL bit comes in! A true test of stamina.

Despite this, or because of this, it is one of the UK’s most popular ‘sportives’ which was a sell out within 20 hours. It’s used by keen cyclists as training and a measure of their early season fitness. So much so that the Node-Giordana professional team have included the event as part of their training programme.

from the hustle and bustle of the main roads.

Through picturesque villages, past ancient churches and rural farms. Seeing the wooded countryside in the reawakening of Spring.

Appreciating the view from the heights of the upper Weald and the North Downs. Many have said how much they appreciated this that they vow to return to embark on further exploration of Kent and Sussex. No wonder cycling is becoming an increasingly popular pastime.

For further information about the HOTA go to

www.HELL.gb.com

But it’s not all toil and tiredness however because the riders from all over the UK and even abroad, really enjoy their introduction to the beauty of Ashdown Forest. To reach it they cycle along Kent’s quiet country lanes away 26 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

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Also gas Ranges & A

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Answers to Quiz

Volga Japan The Hollies George Orwell Warwickshire SuperHeavy 1992 New York Cliff Richard 1963

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FM<EJ :FFB<IJ 8>8J I8E><J ?F9J D@:IFN8M<J =I@;><J =I<<Q<IJ ;@J?N8J?<IJ Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 27

What’s On:

February 2012

Thursday 9th February Lecture for National Trust members: ‘Scenes from my Bicycle’ by Martin Lloyd, Clair Hall, Haywards Heath at 2:30pm. Call: 01444 482055 Thursday 9th February Ashdown Forest Decorative and Fine Arts Society. Talk:

By William Forrester, The Howards of Arundel Castle and Castle Howard. The lecture starts at 2.30pm in Nutley Memorial Hall. For membership information please telephone Jane Hayes – 01342 822435.

Until Saturday 25th February Eden Valley Museum: The village, the place, the people - Images of Penshurst including some of Cassel Hospital at Swaylands, Penshurst Place and a number of the historic village buildings and village life from days gone by. 72 High Street, Edenbridge, TN8 5AR. See website for more details.

Saturday 25th February GALA CONCERT - featuring a 40 piece professional orchestra, the Crowborough Centenary Choir and children from Herne C.P. Choir at All Saints Church, Crowborough. Tickets available from Zest (Fernbank Centre, Crowborough) and All Saints Church office (01892 652081) at £10 for the main performance at 7.30pm and £5 for the rehearsal matinee at 2.30pm.

Saturday 25th February The Prehistory of the Weald - this two day course is being run by The Centre for Community Engagement part of the University of Sussex. The course will explore the untapped archaeological potential of the Sussex Weald through a class based day followed by a field trip to a private site and monument. The class will be held at the Ashdown Forest centre and the field trip is to Chiddinglye Wood Rocks, Philpots Iron Age Camp and Garden Hill fort. For more details call 01273 678527 or contact y.d.barnes@sussex.ac.uk Friday 23rd March Ashdown Rambling Club’s annual Sybil Martin Memorial Lecture at the Meridian Hall, East Court, East Grinstead.

This year we welcome the return of writer, lecturer and wild country enthusiast Kev Reynolds who will be giving an illustrated talk on “The most beautiful walk in the world”. This is about his experiences in trekking to Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain. It all promises to be a fascinating and inspirational evening!

Kev’s talk starts at 8.00pm (doors open at 7.30pm).

Admission free to members, £2 for non-members.

Refreshments are included. For further information call Tim on 01342 321842 or email him at barrtim_lesley@ hotmail.com Saturday 24th March Crowborough Choral Society and The Fletching Singers present “Stabat Mater” by Antonin Dvoák at 7.30pm 28 • February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

For non-profit community, charity groups this page is free of charge to use, email: info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk.

at All Saints’ Church Centre, Crowborough. The music is a beautiful cantata for Easter to celebrate the devotion of the Virgin Mary to the dead Christ, which will be accompanied by four soloists and an orchestra conducted by Colin Moore.Tickets are available from Cro’s the Jewellers, Crowborough High Street or bookings may be made from 01892 527002 or www.fletchingsingers.org.uk.

Saturday 31st March Wheels around the Weald, starting from Hospice in the Weald. A new cycling event in aid of Hospice in the Weald, with three routes to choose from, 15 miles around Tunbridge Wells, 40 miles around the Northern Weald and 81 miles taking in all of the hospice shops.

This is the perfect event both seasoned cyclists and first timers! Online Registration is now available at www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk. For more details contact Emma Whittington on 01892 820530 or events@hospiceintheweald.org.uk Until 28th March ‘Ashdown Forest: A Landscape Photography Exhibition’

by James Barrett: an exciting and talented local artist has chosen the Forest Centre to host an exhibition of his latest work. The Ashdown Forest Centre, Wych Cross, Forest Row, RH18 5JP. Opening times: Weekends only 11am-2pm and 2pm-dusk. Meet the artist: 28th January and 24th March. A free event. For more information call: 01342 823583, www.ashdownforest.org

The New East Grinstead Writer’s Club For Passionate Writer’s of all genres Meet top authors, Sat workshops for Adults & Juniors with member’s discounts, ‘Open Mic’ and more. First author confirmed to speak: Simon Brett BBC Producer on the 7th February at 7:30pm, Jan Etherington on the 6th March at 7:30pm, Jack Sheffied on 3rd April at 7pm.To find out more call: 01342 311964 or email: eastgrinsteadwritersclub@live.co.uk.

Are you reading this?

With over 17,000 copies delivered door-to-door you’re not the only one.

Call 01342 300152 or 07930 251799 to advertise www.ashdownforestliving.co.uk

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

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Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 29

Ranger’s

Ashdown Forest

Report

The unseasonaly warm weather over early winter heralded storms. The high winds and heavy rain 1.75 miles/3km blowing down and uprooting some massive trees.

No sooner than holiday over (with than our From Linton’s carthe park crosswas the road care) into Ridge car park (summer only).

Walk of the rearresidents past a seat onto office was swamped with callsout from forest awho grass path and in about 50m turn ontodown a ride. Remain on were stranded because treesleft were this gently ride, to ignoring another that bearsYou off may know about these tips, but across theirdescending drives. We have respond quickly right, about so wefor grab our400m. chainsaws, safety gear and the it’s always helpful to be reminded... winch tractor and head off into the wind and the On both right are linear quarries, rain.

Onleft theand way to our destination there is a radio 1. Try very hard to shop just once a week in now filled with and trees. message fromscrub the office to say Such that there are the supermarket. For your mid-week shop buy quarries dot trees the Forest and A22 at Wych three more downlandscape now and the your milk/eggs/bread, etc. at your small local provided stone for roads. Typical heathland Cross is blocked. We arrive to find a large beech shops (or use your local milkman who now birds such as nightjar, stonechat, tree pipit tree lying across the road perilously close to a and woodlark usually breed in this area and often provides other products to your door van,ride thankfully are are no one injuries just queuing the edges in there particular of the as well). Going back to your supermarket for traffic andontothe our relief a blue flashing light . The best places Forest (indeed in Sussex) the ‘mid-week shop’ inevitably makes you police are on the site yellow to control theoftraffic to see, in May, flowers the while we spend over and above budget as you end clearspiny the tree.

Speed and safety are a priority. small shrub, petty whin. up getting more than you intended - they are We swing into action with chainsaws revving and very clever at luring us to spend more than we then the 115 horsepower tractor moves in and The ride bears left, then right through a break in the quarries should! effortlessly lifts half a tree and moves it off the and continues descending for 400m to a metalled drive (Sandy road. The is over stand back the are the Lane) . drama On the left is awe bowling green while and ahead 2. If a tiny hole appears in clothes, get out the police open the road andofthe traffic flows once cricket pitch and pavilion Coleman’s Hatch Cricket Club. thread then and there. If you catch it right at more. We feel pleased, not wanting to admit that it could have been a lot worse. Job done, onto the the beginning, you can fix it fast & no-one will next one! Meanwhile back in the office Ros and be able to tell it was there. If you don’t have Tracy confirm that we have number of events this the perfect colour thread it doesn’t always year for children and families during the holidays matter, get as close to it as possible but the at the Ashdown Forest Centre including a dawn key is to catch it as soon as it appears. chorus walk, fungi day, a craft day, a bracken maze and lots more. More details on our website: 3. Ring around your toilet? This is caused by ashdownforest.org. alkaline deposits. Pour one or two cups of white vinegar into the toilet once a month.

Mike Yates - Ashdown Forest Ranger

Agricultural and Garden

installation of fencing, gates and hedge planting

February 2012 • Ashdown Forest Living

info@ashdownforestliving.co.uk • tel: 01342 300152

Tree removal • Reduction • Pruning • Planting • Forestry Firewood • Woodchip • Hedge cutting • Stump grinding Fully insured and qualified

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Free estimates

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24hr emergency call-out

www.sargentstreeservices.com Please mention the Ashdown Forest Living when responding to adverts • February 2012 • 31

Had enough of being overweight? erweight? eight?

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Key points • Expected average weight loss of clients, 10-14 lbs a month • Easy to follow • No pills, diet shakes etc.

• One-to-one support to get you to the weight you want!

Before

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For a free consultation, absolutely no obligation call

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