Sussex Living October 2022

great savings for your home autumn event

Harrow Upholstery

3 Seater Sofa

Was £1785 Now £1429

Armchair Was £1085 Now £865

Power Recliner

Was £1705 Now £1359

MADE

Elisa Upholstery

3 Seater Sofa

Was £1319 Now

2 Seater Sofa Was £1279

Armchair Was £869

Mackenzie Power 3Str

Mackenzie Power Corner Group

as pictured

PAINTED COLLECTIONS

Painted furniture can transform any room; and there are plenty of ranges to choose from in store. While stocks last, we have Henley White (below) at these fantastic prices, ready for fast free local delivery!

Henley Console Table Was £809 Now £299

Henley Hall Bench Was £525 Now £199

Henley Nest of Tables Was £545 Now £199

Henley Side Table Was £315 Now £115

Henley Large TV Unit Was £925 Now £349

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Cover Stories

13 The Wall of Death

Sara Whatley meets motorcyclist Jake Messham and b ecomes intoxicated by his heart-stopping stunts

33 A Different View Of The Vale

Aliya Whiteley takes a coddiwomple through K ingley Vale

49 Free Support For Carers

Carers Support West Sussex

87 Destination Lewes

We explore the county town of East Sussex

93 Location: East Grinstead and Forest Row

133 Weddings Of Yore

A look at the history of wedding traditions and roles

161 Ever So Easy Beef Bourguignon

Adele Trathan’s recipe is so easy it almost cooks itself

165 Harissa Chickpea Stew

An autumnal recipe for heart-warming comfort food

Features

8 Queen Elizabeth II

Our tribute to the late Queen, in her own words

31 Time To Tee Off

Practice your swing, sink a few putts, and enjoy a meal to remember in scenic Cuckfield

43 Foster Care Changes Lives

Karen Venditto reports on the joys of fostering

46 Safe At Home

Ruth Lawrence has been to meet the team at Everycare and learn what they do and how they do it

57 October Book Reviews

Four books to curl up with and enjoy this month

Edit or’s Comment

October is upon us and the colours of autumn can be glimpsed across the Sussex landscape as the trees and hedgerows turn from green to golden. The last month has been difficult in many respects, but particularly with the sad loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, we have paid tribute to her, with her own words of wisdom, which have been an inspiration and comfort to many over her 70 year reign. Sussex Living is a bumper issue with so many features, from interviews with dare devils, terrariums for interior inspiration and this month Robert Veitch goes completely bonkers for conkers!

Adele

MANAGING EDITOR

If you miss the latest issue of Sussex Living you can read it all online at www.sussexliving.com and sign up for our newsletter

01273

sales@sussexliving.com

Rich & Earthy

61 The Heart Of The Matter

Some of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack

66 Bus It!

Faye Rogers on the perks of free bus travel

70 Artful Space

Creating one home from two with inspired planning, modern art and a Scandinavian influence

102 Breaking The Rules

A home in Brighton, offering striking colour, vibrant accessories and a unique personality

125 Indoor Gardening

Sara Whatley talks terrariums

139 Cake And Eat It

Which of these wedding cakes would you choose?

157 Bonkers For Conkers

Robert Veitch looks back to playground battles, and creation of a world championship

Reg ulars

24

Spotlight Events

A few ‘must do’ events taking place this autumn

36 Puzzle Page

39 The Wonder Years

The little Whatleys rewrite the English phrasebook

97 Ashurst To Eridge Walk

A magnificent ramble alongside rivers, railways and sandstone rocks in the far north of the county

121 Blooming Times

Flo Whitaker’s plant SOS for drought-affected gardens is here

143 Money Matters

Lisa de Silva looks into the cost of weddings

147 Rich & Earthy Beauty

T he tones and sparkles setting trends this October

151 Wellbeing

G et the gut feeling about good gut health

168 It’s A Dog’s Life

Teddy ruminates on the influence of other cultures

178 If You Ask Me

Flo ponders on the future of the monarchy

176 Puzzle Page Solutions

ssifieds

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Queen Elizabeth II

21st April 1926 – 8th September 2022

After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on 8th September 2022, we pay tribute to her in her own words. Sara Whatley has compiled a collection of quotes from her speeches both before and during her 70-year reign as our monarch. They display her inspiration, wisdom, courage, devotion and connection with the people of the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and around the world

“We owe it to our children and grandchildren to live up to the standards of behaviour and tolerance which we are so eager to teach them.”

From the Queen’s 1984 Christmas Day speech, the year Prince Harry, her fourth grandchild, was born

“The struggles against inhuman prejudice, against squalor, ignorance, and disease, have always owed a great deal to the determination and tenacity of women.”

From the Queen’s 1966 Christmas Day speech, a decade which saw great changes for women

“Distance is well-known to lend enchantment, even to the less attractive views. After all, it has the inestimable advantage of hindsight.”

From the Queen’s speech on 24th November 1992 to mark the 40th anniversary of her accession. It is also known as her ‘annus horribilis’ speech

“In the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential.”

From the Queen’s 2021 Christmas Day speech

“It has always been easy to hate and destroy. To build and to cherish is much more difficult.”

From the Queen’s 1957 Christmas Day speech, the first to be televised

“I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.”

From the speech broadcast on Princess Elizabeth’s twenty-first birthday, 21st April 1947

“I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God.”

From the Queen’s 2002 Christmas Day speech, the year of her Golden Jubilee

“We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.”

From the Queen’s televised address on 5th April 2020, after the outbreak of COVID-19

“I often draw strength from meeting ordinary people doing extraordinary things: volunteers, carers, community organisers and good neighbours; unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special.”

From the Queen’s speech at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, 2016

Penny Strachan

Director

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Wall of Death rider extraordinaire Jake Messham belts past me on his motorbike, mere inches from my face. I can feel the throb of the bike under my feet; hear the sound of the wooden boards clacking as he rumbles over them and the monstrous roaring of engines. My nose is filled with the heady aroma of fuel and we are all cast under the dramatic red light of the circus-striped tent over our heads.

This is one of the most extraordinary spectacles I have ever witnessed; I was looking down from the top of a 20 foot high wooden drum, uttering expletives under my breath as a motorbike rode vertically round in circles, the rider dipping and diving, scraping dangerously close to the cable at the top and performing death-defying tricks as he went; no hands, side-saddle, legs over the handlebars kind of thing. It should not be possible, but with a cunning mixture of friction and centrifugal force it very much is.

“It’s just natural now,” Jake laughed later on, “like driving a bike along the road.” But then he would say that; Jake has been doing shows on the wall since he was 14. “I started riding a motorbike when I was 11, but as kids we practiced on the track and got used to it on pushbikes. You can do more damage coming off a pushbike though, you break things!”

The Wall of Death show came to England from the United States in 1929 and the Messham family have owned one since 1931. Orton and Spooner,

I can feel the throb of the bike under my feet; hear the sound of the wooden boards clacking and the monstrous roaring of engines

If you’re lucky enough to witness a Wall of Death show you’ll know the intoxicating mixture of wonder and terror as heartstopping stunts are performed under your nose. Sara Whatley met with Jake Messham, a star rider and motorcycle trickster

famous manufacturers of fairground rides, built some of the first walls in the UK. Jake revealed he still has their first wall in his yard, but it’s a bit rotten now. “It’s of no real value, just sentimental to us,” he said. Their new wall is painted up the same way, so you’d never know the difference.

Back in the day the daredevil nature of these shows meant their popularity exploded and quickly there were Walls of Death all over, with showmanship in fierce competition. Animals were introduced to ride in sidecars and both men and women riders upped their game with new and daring tricks. The Second World War put an end to all that, and the animals disappeared along with many of the shows. Apparently, there are only three Wall of Death shows performing in the UK these days, Messham’s Wall of Death being one of them.

This legacy has been passed down through the generations; Jake Messham is fourth generation and his boys will be the fifth. “My two younger brothers will be the next – they are nearly on the wall – they just need a bit more practice,” he said.

Jake and his wife, Carly have two young sons, Maddox and Greyson, who is five. Part of the show I saw included Greyson riding his little Indian bike around the lower ramped section of the wall, but if his bike battery was fully charged, his parents said he would be right up there. “What are you gonna’ be when you’re older?” his dad

They are majestic beasts with wide handlebars and an accommodating leather seat

Jake Messham with son Greyson

asked him. “Wall of death rider,” he answered, looking gleefully thrilled and desperate to get on that wall.

Actually getting the practice is hard for them now the wall is not the family’s full time business; there is not enough time between shows and it’s not up in one place for long enough. Off season they do try to set it up, but it’s not always easy. Jake only got where he is today following a 90-day stint they did in South Korea in 2006, when the

family were touring the show. “That’s when I got a lot of practice in and started doing tricks on the Indian,” he said. That’s also where he met his wife, Carly, who was a showgirl touring with the circus at the time. “Big Las Vegas feathers and shoes,” she said with a smile. “It was good.”

We stood on the floor of the drum after the show had finished, in amongst the bikes and the money scattered on the chequers, thrown down by the

audience above to help with insurance costs which are, as one might imagine for a show such as this, astronomical.

“It’s unlucky to sweep it up, we’ve got to pick it all up by hand,” explained Jake. Usually they leave it all until the end of the day, but in South Korea where the currency is the South Korean Won and a £1,000 note is worth similar to a £1 coin, apparently the floor was so littered with notes by the end of each show the

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bikes were slipping about. “We had to quickly pick it all up and stuff it into bags. We used to get a taxi back to the hotel and ram it in the safe in our room. It was stuffed full but worth peanuts!” he said.

There are other superstitions that linger inside this wall as well: when you drive down the ramp you have to bring the bike in facing the direction you ride (counter-clockwise) otherwise it’s unlucky, and if you do come in the wrong way you have to go right round and out, turn around and bring it back in. ‘Blue and green must never be seen’ is another superstition which has been in their family for a long time. “These things usually start if there was a crash or something and it was on a blue bike,” explained Carly.

I was standing next to an Indian Scout bike emblazoned with ‘Rock on Tommy’ across the tank; “That belonged to uncle Tommy. It’s been passed on through generations; my second cousin got that for his 18th birthday, he’s not with us now, then it passed on to us. Tommy stopped riding the wall; he lost the feel for it. He got into the fairground side of it.”

Indian Scout bikes have been the preferred motorcycle to ride on the wall since the 1920s. They are majestic beasts with wide handlebars and an accommodating leather seat. It’s a very upright position Jake adopts to ride the wall and as he starts his tricks, his ability to move across the bike is mesmerising. “Dad helped along the way but Charles Winter, the old boy who is the Spieler for us now, he taught us a lot. He’s worked for the family for over 35 years. He knows pretty much

everything. Charles took the show to Malaysia in the 90s.”

When Uncle Tommy lost the feel for the wall it had a hiatus in storage, to come out again when Jake and his brothers were of age. “Charles had a few of the bikes in storage. He did a lot of work on the bikes and started it up again. Charles still does a lot of maintenance because he knows everything about the bikes, but Junior, my younger brother, he’s pretty mechanically minded. I just ride them!” Jake laughed.

Looking at the tyres of Jake’s Indian, it’s clear to see they have got uneven wear, to put it mildly. In reality they are

totally smooth on one side. “That’s how we like ‘em!” he smiled. “Takes years to get it like that, we need them like that for the tricks. We spin them around; that will come off the front and go on the back and the one on the back will be worn enough to go on the front… you’ll get years out of that. The one that came off a few years ago was on there for 30 years – not worn out just perished.”

Up on the wall they ride at between 20 and 25 miles per hour, but it feels much faster when you’re standing close by. “Any faster and you start blacking out and get too dizzy,” said Jake. The riders are also pulling about 4 g up there, which Jake said you can feel in

Spieler Charles Winter

your arms by the end of the day. “It takes its toll on his body especially on busy days when we do show after show after show,” added Carly.

“You do get used to it, it’s just the adrenaline, keeps you going and you enjoy it. But when it comes to Sunday night and you’ve been doing that for two or three days, then you’ve got to take it all down,” said Jake. That’s the other part of this life: showman stunt rider one minute and wall constructor and dismantler the next. There are over 800 pieces that make up the wall, including the stage at the front, the stairs and handrails, the wall itself and the huge signage. They do it all themselves, but not all performers want to get dirty. “We’ve taught loads of riders over the years who want to be superstars, but it’s not like that. Sometime you’re up to your axles in mud and pouring rain. It’s an achievement building this up in a day,” said Jake proudly.

He continued, “When I was a kid, we used to move every weekend. We have got another wall; we travelled two walls at one point, that was when my older brother rode with us as well. He doesn’t ride anymore, too many crashes. He’s got a really bad back and busted his legs.” Ah yes, the crashes. It’s time to find out how dangerous this really is.

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“I’ve had a few,” Jake said, and matter-offactly guided me through his injuries: broken ankle in three places, broken collar bone, chopped off finger, handle bar through the arm… “Anything can happen; engine seize up, puncture, bit of water, bit of oil on the wall. The worst thing you get when you come off is burns from sliding along the wall. I had one from there to my feet,” he says, gesturing from the top of his back. “I let me hands go; I was standing on the back of the bike, bike wobbled a bit, throttle opened up, pushed me over the back of the bike. We didn’t have any mudguards on the back, so I got caught on the wheel.”

And what happens to the bike when the rider comes off? Well, gravity tries to pull the rider back in so the most important thing is to push the bike away, and hope for the best. “Ninety percent of the time you can get away with it,” smiled Jake.

There is not much money in this, they freely admit. In fact, Carly called it an expensive hobby. But they clearly love it, and the kids seem to love it too.

“They go off and play on the fairground rides and come back when they’re hungry,” said Carly. “Then we sit round of an evening, have some food and drinks.”

It seems to be the heady mix of adrenaline, family history, the thrill of it – which Jake says he doesn’t think he’ll ever loose – and the showmanship that keeps this show running. The Jake that’s talking to me as his kids and family run circles around the floor is modest, miles away from the showman who rides daringly for the thrill of a two hundred plus audience, eliciting gasps of disbelief and thrilled pleasure as he performs his tricks then takes to the wall with two other riders for the finale of the show. They weave and chase each other then fall in line and regally hold up their left hands. Like the thrumming rev of an engine, he can turn his showmanship on and off.

The clock was ticking, and the next show was approaching. As we walked out of the wall into the dazzling sunshine the queue was snaking far into the field. Jake got on to the static bike on the stage, arms held high, fingers poised and a crowd-pleasing smile on his face and gave the waiting crowd a taste of what was to come. Over the loud-speakers Charles shared the history of the show and lured punters in with the death-defying excitement of it all.

“We’ve enjoyed doing it, then we can pass it on,” Jake told me, but for now, he looks extremely happy just where he. Messham’s Wall of Death is, paradoxically, where he is most alive. l

‘Blue and green must never be seen’ is another superstition which has been in their family for a long time

Scan the QR code to see Jake in death-defying action at the Sussex Living website

LOYKEY & LILLYBIT

Author and Illustrator of children’s adventure books

Alice and Alfie and the magic windmill TRILOGY Ages 3 – 8 years

Alice and Alfie rag dolls also available to compliment the books. Made with French linen and real leather boots and satchels. An ideal gift for Birthdays and Christmas.

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The Shadow of old London Town TRILOGY Ages 5 – 10 years

SPOTLIGHT EVENTS

Ardingly Antiques Fair

Tuesday 1st & Wednesday 2nd November

Visit Ardingly Antiques Fair at the South of England Showground & browse 1,700 antiques stalls selling antique furniture, delicate ceramics, antique silver, vintage artwork, vintage clothing and

thousands more sustainable items.

Craft and Design Show at Lancing College

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October

It will be your last chance in 2022 to snap up amazing deals on the rarest antiques and collector’s items! If you’re planning on renovating your house ready for the new year, then make sure to visit our interior stalls that provide visitors with furniture to fit in all spaces, decorative pieces that last a lifetime and rare artists pieces that will make you proud to have visitors over.

Tickets online: www.iacf.co.uk

Sat 22

Oct

Craft event organisers, Woodland Crafts Events Management will be returning with their annual Craft and Design Show for a unique, contemporary shopping experience! It’s the perfect chance to find something completely different!

South of England Showground, Ardingly RH17 6TL

23

The craft exhibitors come from all over the country and there’s a fabulous selection of talented professional makers, artists and designers, all carefully chosen to offer you a wonderful selection of unique crafts and gift ideas.

So whether you’re looking for a unique piece of furniture or an unusual personalised gift, you’ll find everything from artwork, textiles, table lamps, pottery and home furnishings, to glorious fudge, jewellery and jams, craft supplies and so much more.

Entrance fee: £4 under 16s free when accompanied by an adult www.woodlandcrafts.co.uk or find them on Facebook.

Lancing College, Lancing, Nr Shoreham BN15 0RW

Henfield Theatre Company presents ‘Pressure’

Thursday 13th to Saturday 15th October, 7.45pm

‘Pressure’, by David Haig, gives audiences a true and thrilling account of the final decision to invade Europe in June1944.

A huge fleet is ready but the weather forecasters’ predictions contradict each other - who will interpret the weather maps correctly and persuade General ‘Ike’ Eisenhower to commence Operation Overlord? The cast are so enthralled by the story that they have visited the setting of the events at

Southwick House and the D-Day Museum in Portsmouth.

Tickets: Stevens in Henfield High Street or at: www.henfieldtheatrecompany.com

Autumn Colour at Hever Castle & Gardens

Saturday 1st to Monday

31st October

Autumn is one of the most stunning seasons at Hever Castle & Gardens. Head Gardener Neil Miller and his team will be hosting weekly workshops (5th, 12th and 19th October) with subjects including how to create a container of bulbs ready for spring as

well as tips on jobs to do in the garden. The team have also created an immersive selfguided trail as part of Autumn Colour (available online or to collect from the ticket huts from 1 October).

Younger visitors can also pick up a home craft collection bag to gather fallen leaves and make their very own autumn sun catcher at home.

www.hevercastle.co.uk

Fundraising Live Music Night at Chequer Mead Theatre, East Grinstead

Thursday 20th October, 7pm to 9pm

Enjoy a lively evening with the Swing Ninjas, a high energy swing band combing a mix of New Orleans swing and new UK Swing, with a modern musical flair.

This fabulous fundraising event is in aid of local Sussex charity, Kangaroos Disability Clubs. Come along and support this excellent organisation and have a fantastic evening at the same time.

100-year-old music is given a

breath of fresh air by the highly skilled energetic performance, group vocal harmonies and tongue-in-cheek charm of the Brighton based band. This is not Jazz as you know it. This fun loving, charming and soulful group have headlined festivals from Virginia to Bahrain and play at over 150 shows a year.

Tickets are priced at £20, with a halfprice for under 16 available from: www.chequermead.org.uk or 01342 302000

Celebrate the Passing of The Year with New Sussex Singers

Friday 11th November, doors and bar 6.45pm, concert 7.30pm

Thur

Brighton Early Music Festival

Thursday 29th September to Sunday 23rd October

The south of England’s premier festival of music from the medieval, renaissance and baroque eras, with a distinctive Brighton twist. Highlights include an operatic film première in the style of George Méliès (29th Sept); Scottish baroque music inspired by the series Outlander (19th Oct); stellar performers from Italy (21st Oct); large-scale cantatas which inspired J S Bach (22nd Oct); and elegant French baroque opera arias with two rising star soloists (23rd Oct). Find out more and book tickets (from £5): www.bremf.org.uk or call 01273 833746 for a brochure

A programme of beautiful music relating to the passing of time, life and the seasons will be performed at St Michael in Lewes. Composers Jonathan Dove, Edward Elgar, Bob Chilcott, Samuel Barber and Benjamin Britten are among those featured.

The chamber choir of around 30 auditioned members has gained a reputation for its high standard of music, much of which is sung a cappella.

Sebastian Charlesworth is the Musical Director and the pianist is Howard Beach. Tickets cost £14, under-16s free. For full programme details and to purchase tickets visit: www.newsussexsingers.co.uk St Michael, 158 High Street, Lewes BN7 1XU

Autumn Activities at Wilderness Wood

Autumn arts, crafts and well-being workshops for all ages in the beautiful

woodland and timber structures of Wilderness Wood; woodcarving; green woodworking; bowl-turning; wreath-making; woodblock printing; foraging; meditation; Qi Gong. Accommodation is also available for course participants in the shepherd’s hut or two luxury cabins – which have been built using wood from the wood! Check for details and how to book at: www.wildernesswood.org

Uckfield Model Railway Club 2022 Exhibition

Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th October, 10am to 5pm

This annual event at the Civic Centre in Uckfield is a show for all the family. Now in its 37th year, this model railway exhibition is sure to delight all ages. There will be over a dozen high-quality layouts plus trade and

demonstration stands.

Adults £9, children go free: up to two children aged 5 –15 inclusive will be admitted free if accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied and additional children £4. Under 5s free.

Uckfield Civic Centre, Civic Approach, Uckfield TN22 1AE

During Autumn

The Big Purple Xmas Extravaganza

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October, 12 noon to 6pm

Enjoy presents and Prosecco at The South of England Showground this October for The Big Purple Xmas Extravaganza. Although it’s a bit early for Xmas trees, we have lots of Christmas crafts, gifts, clothing, decorations, foodie treats along with a few spiritual stalls and even treats and items for your dog! Why not come along and support these small artisan traders and buy something unique this year?

A choice of hot food, licensed bars, Big Paul DJ playing some festive tunes, plus bouncy castles for the children, and the fabulous Nick Cook Circus Entertainer will be running some free circus skills workshops and balloon modelling. With a mix of indoor and outdoor stalls there is something for everyone.

£5 entry per adult and kids go free Further details at: www.bigpurplexmasfair.co.uk

Tickets online here: www.buytickets.at/ thebigpurplechristmasextravaganza

Lindfield Bonfire Night

Saturday 5th November, 7.30pm

This year Lindfield Bonfire Society will be celebrating the 128th anniversary of their traditional Sussex Bonfire Night. The torchlight procession will begin at 7.30pm outside the Stand Up Inn, and progress down the High St to the Black Hill Junction, along Hickmans Lane, down the High Street before entering Lewes Road and ending on the Common. The Bonfire Prayer will be read at 8.15pm followed by the Grand Firework Display at approximately 8.30pm. Roads will be closed to traffic between 6.30pm and 9.30pm.

If you would like to sponsor a firework for £5

Halloween at Hever Castle & Gardens

Saturday 22nd to Sunday 30th October

Get into the Halloween spirit this Autumn half term with a family friendly spooky trail at Hever Castle & Gardens. Enter different zones including witches, skeletons and bats to find letters spelling out a mystery word in return for a small prize – don’t miss the giant spider!

Sport your spookiest costume to really get the most out of the trail. Young visitors can also take part in a garlic bulb planting workshop to try and ward off vampires and spot ghostly decorations around the grounds. Listen to traditional ghost stories or take part in a trail in the Castle (included with Castle entry).

www.hevercastle.co.uk

High Beeches Garden

Open daily 1pm to 5pm until 30th October Closed Wednesdays

A beautiful woodland and water garden

please email Mike: Donations may be made to our Lindfield Bonfire Society Just Giving page lindfieldbonfiresoc@gmail.com

in the heart of the Sussex Weald, High Beeches is a place of great beauty and tranquility to be enjoyed in all seasons. October is a particularly special time to wander through the peaceful woodland glades and take in the spectacular colours of the many mature acers, nyssas and liquidambers in their blazing autumn glory. Planted against a background of rare conifers it is a sight not to be missed. Takeaway, teas, coffees and cake available.

www.highbeeches.com

Poetry, Prose and…. Parky in Petworth

Thursday 27th October to Sunday 6th November

Michael Parkinson is just one of a raft of stellar names headlining this year’s Petworth Festival Literary Week. With events covering every conceivable subject from politics to pets, baking to biography and novels to the natural world.

The festival is packed with household names; novelists Robert Harris and Kate Mosse; a quartet of fine historians Andrew Roberts, Simon Sebag-

Montefiore, Ben Macintyre and Al Murray (yes -THE Al Murray); luminaries from the world of politics, MP Jeremy Hunt, and Boris Johnson biographer Andrew Gimson; and autobiographies from the likes of actor Hugh Bonneville, Antiques Roadshow stalwart Ronnie ArcherMorgan and Fashion designer extraordinaire, Theo Fennell. The list just goes on…

Tickets available from 28th September at: www.petworthfestival.org.uk

Image: Hever Castle & Gardens

Photo of Hugh Bonneville: Gavin Bond

Come and explore the wonders of Vinehall School during our Open week Monday 3rd - Friday 7th October. Meet the Head, tour the grounds, and speak to our teachers and pupils about life at Vinehall.

We are delighted to announce that Vinehall is now a member of the Repton Family of Schools.

A collaboration that responds to the demands and opportunities of the 21st century, putting the individual needs of each child first.

Nevine Fathy is a figurative artist with a passion for oil painting. The visceral materiality of the oily pigments reminds her of the first meeting between the First Elements. Water and Earth wake up the dead pigments and air brings them back to life through the creative energy Earth meets heaven and a new world is created

Escape to the Skies for Christmas Magic at 450ft

Saturday 3rd to Saturday 24th December

This December, fly up to 450ft above Brighton with Santa and his Elves on one of the i360 Santa Flights. For that extra bit of festive magic, book the Breakfast & Fly with Santa experience. This unforgettable experience includes a hot breakfast with a craft activity for children, followed by a flight with Santa and our Elf Experience

hosts, and a Christmas gift for every child.

If you’re looking for a unique way to kick off your Christmas festivities, book the Winter Solstice Sunrise Flight. An extraordinary opportunity to capture the sunrise on the shortest day of the year, from 18 metres high in the sky.

Book Online at: https://british airwaysi360.com/christmas

Events at The Bottle of Hastings

Every Fortnight

New wine shop The Bottle of Hastings is

to Sat

Open daily 10am to 4.30pm

Discover the Coastal Creek aviary at Arundel Wetland Centre, a walk-through experience with waterfalls and a diving duck tank! The Pelican Cove exhibit next door is home to the Dalmatian pelicans, the largest in the world with a wingspan of 10 feet! October half term is eek! week – are you brave enough to explore the eek!-citing interactive trail? Also during Halloween half term the Raised Pond dipping station is open or try a ride through the reeds on the Wetland Discovery Boat Safari.

The Hawth Crawley

Events during October

The Hawth Crawley is known for its fantastic programme of events offering something for everyone to enjoy and this October is no exception.

The Classical Ballet and Opera House featuring world-class dancers will present Swan Lake (11th) and Sleeping Beauty (12th), accompanied by an orchestra of over 30 musicians. Fans

hosting Flight Club, a regular series of wine tastings with their wine buyer Ruth Spivey. Each fortnight you can enjoy six chosen wines plus snacks and a tutored tasting with Ruth, a former GQ Sommelier of the Year, in a laid back surroundings of their Hastings town centre wine shop.

The events showcase just a handful of the 300+ wines they have available – you can peruse the entire selection instore and online, with free delivery offered to customers in Hastings and surrounding areas.

More info at: www.thebottleofhastings.com

Scotney School of Sorcery

Saturday 22th to Sunday 30th October

For a full list of events and more information visit: wwt.org.uk/arundel

This half-term why not head down to Scotney Castle and enrol in the Scotney School of Sorcery? With just your trusty map and a few clues to get you started, can you complete the magic spell and turn the cauldron smoke green? You’ll need your best wizarding hat on to solve the incomplete riddles hidden around the garden, old castle ruins and the deep, dark ice house. If you can, you’ll earn your Scotney Sorcery School graduation certificate and a sweet reward. With smoking cauldrons, talking ravens, floating broomsticks and giant spiders, this promises to be a very different day at school...

Open

£3 per trail (Pre-booking of car park essential)

nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

of gothic horror can give themselves an early Halloween treat with Mary Shelley’s classic, Frankenstein (20th22nd) brought to life with thrilling theatricality in the Studio, while those wanting a fun-filled scare for their little ones can look forward to Dinosaur World Live (13th-15th) - a roarsome show for all the family!

Book now: hawth.co.uk

Arundel Wetland Centre

include

Turkey & Tinsel

Warner’s Holme Lacy

Holme Lacy, Herefordshire

Mon 14 Fri 18 Nov 2022

Half Board from £505.00 p.p

Turkey & Tinsel

Weston super Mare

Smiths Hotel, Weston super Mare

Mon 21 Fri 25 Nov 2022

Half Board from £465.00 p.p

Turkey & Tinsel Bournemouth

Suncliff Hotel, Bournemouth

Mon 28 Nov Fri 2 Dec 2022

Half Board £415.00 p.p

Warner’s Studley Castle Studley, Warwickshire

Mon 12 Fri 16 Dec 2022

Half Board from £549.00 p.p

Christmas at Warner’s Bembridge Coast

Isle of Wight

Fri 23 Tue 27 Dec 2022

Full Board from £879.00 p.p

Christmas in Hampshire

Norton Park Hotel, Winchester

Fri 23 Tue 27 Dec 2022

Xmas Package from £699.00 p.p

Warner’s Bembridge Coast

Isle of Wight

Mon 13 Fri 17 Feb 2023

Half Board from £335.00 p.p

Snowdonia Special

Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis

Mon 6 Fri 10 March 2023

Half Board from £419.00 p.p

Warner’s Studley Castle Studley, Warwickshire

Mon 20 Fri 24 March 2023

Half Board from £599.00 p.p

Bournemouth Special

Trouville Hotel, Bournemouth

Mon 27 Fri 31 March 2023

Half Board from £409.00 p.p

Myths, Marvels & Moors

The Moorland Hotel, Haytor

Mon 10 Fri 14 April 2023

Half Board from £595.00 p.p

Time to Tee Off

Discover a beautiful golf course, good food, stunning views and a warm welcome at Cuckfield Golf Centre, as Sara Whatley did when she dropped in for a chat

Since Cuckfield Golf Centre reopened a year ago they have been acing it. “We are just winning everything!” Niki Smyth, Director, told me proudly. Both the men’s and the lady’s teams have been bringing home trophies and wins all summer long, making this a very attractive club to belong to, and for newcomers as well. “This has been our best year yet,” said Niki.

“We are a very contemporary club,” Niki continued, “not stuffy at all and we welcome all ages and abilities.” There are no strict dress codes and non-members are as welcome as members; with pay and play options, the driving range where you can hit some balls, or have a lesson with a pro.

The new clubhouse is testament to this warm and relaxed approach; sleek and modern, light and airy with the most fantastic views reaching across the course and the rolling Sussex countryside, to be enjoyed from inside 180 Degrees Bar and Kitchen and from the stunning terrace. The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxed and buzzing as diners enjoy the offerings of the 180 Degrees Bar and Kitchen.

“Our chefs cook delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners, but we are famous

The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxed and buzzing as diners enjoy the offerings of the 180 Degrees Bar and Kitchen

me how they are continuing to improve and invest in the course with new pathways to make the golf course more accessible for buggy users and less mobile players. They want everyone to be able to enjoy their golf course, no matter what.

Cuckfield Golf Centre currently has 300 members and limited availability for new members (get in quick!) but with their warm welcoming environment, both members and nonmembers can enjoy the beautiful space they have created here.

for our Sunday roasts,” said Niki. They locally source as much produce as they can and use local suppliers and companies too. Everyone is welcome at 180 Degrees Bar and Kitchen. Why not try out the popular burger night with live music on the last Friday of the month?

Also, in the clubhouse there are generous changing and showering facilities. Plus the pro shop stocking everything you might need for the golf course.

The course itself is “the best it’s ever been”. The green keepers have put a lot of work in with maintenance, irrigation, clearing the lakes, tree planting and opening up some of the overgrown areas. Niki went on to tell

“We are having various Christmas party nights which can be booked, and a New Year’s Eve party too,” said Niki, so look out for those dates. The whole centre can also be hired as a party/wedding venue, or for more intimate parties and celebrations there are smaller areas in which to host.

From a quick 9-holes with friends to a lesson with the pros, a drink at the bar or a long and luxurious lunch, Cuckfield Golf Centre is welcoming and inclusive, modern and relaxed, and a lovely place to visit for golfers and non-golfers alike. l

Cuckfield Golf Centre Staplefield Rd, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath RH17 5HY 01444 459999

www.cuckfieldgolf.co.uk

If you own a motorhome, camper van or caravan or horse box and need mechanical work on your vehicle, Leisure Vehicles Sussex in Hickstead is the company to call.

We offer the servicing of motorhomes and campers – under the bonnet and under the vehicle, and we also provide the fitting of accessories, including wi-fi, satellite TV, and power supplies such as solar panels and split charging systems.

A Different View

of the

Vale

Afew miles from Chichester there’s a back road that winds through the villages of Walderton and Stoughton, leading into the South Downs, to a place I walk often, and never quite know.

Kingley Vale was designated a National Nature Reserve in 1952 –one of the first in the country – and it includes many important sites of archaeological interest, from Neolithic times to World War Two. Some of these sites are locally famous, such as the Devil’s Humps; these are the Bronze Age burial mounds with a view over the Vale that is eerie in its beauty at sunrise and sunset. There’s a legend that a clan of Viking warriors was defeated at this spot. The story goes that they were buried under the ancient yew trees, and the fallen dead come back at night to haunt those same dark, spreading trunks.

With autumn approaching and fungi abundant across the landscape, we asked coddiwompler Aliya Whiteley to take a trip to Kingley Vale and inspire us all to make the journey to this National Nature Reserve

I’ve stood atop Kingley Vale and soaked up that mysterious, almost unearthly atmosphere in all seasons. I’m one of those walkers who take a lot of photographs, trying to capture something of what I see, but none of the pictures do it justice, and besides, it looks different every time to me. Perhaps that’s because I have a terrible memory for places. Or perhaps it’s because my attention is never really fixed on the archaeological sites, or the spectacular view of the Downs. Instead, I’m always busy looking at the world under my feet,

where there are fungi to be found.

I was lucky enough to grow up wandering through

There’s a legend that a clan of Viking warriors was defeated at this spot

flowers, of the amazing things he found on our walks. Rare and delicate blooms, and even a nest of baby owls, once. When I was given a camera I took blurry photos of wet things, squelchy things, things in the dirt. I still do.

Fungi are made up of threadlike organisms under the surface of the earth. Their networks run all over the Vale, as they do through the world. They can survive in nearly all conditions, can be found in deserts and frozen tundra, but here in Sussex certain fungi thrive wonderfully amongst the trees and plants. And when conditions are right – on a damp autumn day, say – mushrooms emerge.

We all have an idea of what a mushroom should look like, but they can be bizarre in shape and texture: frilled or smooth, with gills or sticky

heads. Some can be shiny or slimy, while others are dry. From the size of a pinhead to a dinner plate, in muted or strident colours, I’ve found them all over Kingley Vale. A lone one might nestle shyly in leaf litter. Others might colonise fallen trees in great eruptions.

The knack of spotting them is hard

to explain. If you take in the whole scene, you won’t get a hint of them. But shift your vision just a little, let your eyes slide downwards, into the dark spots, and there they are. I have no memory for names or places, and I’m no expert when it comes to mycological terms. Sometimes I try to identify them later, from my wobbly photographs. Was that a Many-zoned polypore climbing up

a trunk with its light-edged frills on display, as playful as a courting ritual? Maybe the great circular dish in the grass, light brown and unmarked, was a Horse mushroom that could have made a great meal? The ones that really intrigue me are beyond my powers of recognition. Older fungi, already breaking down, can look utterly alien, as can those that have been nibbled, or partially destroyed. What were they, before the damage? I won’t ever know.

Take a walk on the Downs this autumn and see what you find under the trees. I can’t promise the ghost of Viking warriors, but odd things can be found if you look hard enough. Fungi are just like the changing, unknowable landscape of Kingley Vale: ever surprising, and more than a little eerie. This is a land you can’t ever quite

Aliya Whiteley's The Secret Life of Fungi: Discoveries from a Hidden World is out now in paperback £9.99, published by Elliott & Thompson

Heathfield Farmers’ Market is held on the third Saturday of the month in the Co-op car park at 110 High Street, Heathfield. The market runs from 9am to 12.30pm with FREE parking

Every month there

of

selling fresh

Bread and cakes, cheese,

pies and quiches, fruit &

local

homemade Indian cuisine, fresh goats’ milk and cheese, vitality drinks, chilli sauces, plants, herbs and

more.

There are always plenty of craft stalls to browse selling anything from candles and diffusers, to beautiful glass jewellery, so an ideal opportunity to start your Christmas shopping.

By shopping at the Farmers’ Market you are supporting local producers.

Word Ladder

Make your way from SLEEP to DREAM by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

Make your way from SLEEP to DREAM by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

SLEEP

CROSS CODE

Each number in the grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have some letters on the grid to start you off. Use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them. Any letters that are not used have been crossed out on the control grid of letters.

ANSWERS:(SLEEP,BLEEP,BLEED,BREED,BREEM,BREAM,DREAM)

It can be soul destroying when you just can’t lose your unwanted weight, no matter what you do. If you have reached the stage where putting on any more weight is simply not an option for you, then read on!

We are here to help

Rachel and her team have helped over 8,000 clients of all ages, to lose weight with the highly successful Metabolic Weight Loss Programme. Many come to her as a last resort and are delighted to have achieved and successfully maintain, the weight they want to be.

The Metabolic Weight Loss Programme

The Metabolic Weight Loss Programme is designed to get you from where you are, to a slimmer, healthier version of yourself. It is a long term solution to losing weight and keeping if off!

There is nothing faddish about the programme, no diet pills, diet shakes, meal replacements etc. just healthy foods.

Step-by- step, we help you make any necessary changes to your eating and lifestyle habits. Alongside this, you will be eating food in specific quantities and

combinations, to help increase your metabolic rate and give you the best opportunity for losing weight. The four stages of the programme are planned to stop you from having cravings and always feeling hungry.

This successful, tried, and tested programme is straight forward to follow and more importantly, it works!

Motivating weight loss

Factors, such as, an under active thyroid, pregnancy, menopause, medication, lack of sleep, physical or mental stress or simply just ageing, can all slow down the weight loss process!

The expected average weight loss of The Metabolic Weight Loss Programme is 7-14 lbs a month. As you can imagine, this kind of weight loss is very welcomed, especially those who have struggled with the factors that can slow down weight loss.

Clients often comment on just how impressed their doctors /consultants and other medical professionals are with their weight loss. One reported that their doctor said, ‘All my lady patients on thyroid medication are struggling to lose weight, but you’ve lost 2 ½ stone despite being on thyroxine – well done!’

Feeling and looking better

As the weight falls off, time after time clients remark how their health, selfesteem and confidence has improved. Not being happy with the way one looks in clothes is no longer an issue! Many health reports are received which include improvements in fitness, energy, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and aches and pain.

One-to-one support

Face-to-face or phone consultations are available every 7 days, with daily email support as needed. Time and again, clients comment that they couldn’t have lost their weight without the non- judgemental and caring support of Rachel and her team.

For those who are not able to visit, a successful remote support service is provided throughout the UK and overseas.

No

hard

have tried in the past, The Metabolic Weight Loss

the answer to losing your weight and keeping it off

for all!

Rachel Ricketts

Personal Weight Loss Consultancy

Children saying funny things is a delight for all parents. Laugh with Sara Whatley in… YOU SAID WHAT?

The English language is a funny thing. It’s complicated and weighed down by oneoff rules and anomalies; frankly it’s a wonder any of us can speak it at all. And yet it is the most commonly spoken language in the world, with an estimated 1.4 billion global speakers.

But what absolutely blows my mind is watching my children learn how to speak. Both children started with the basics; “mama, dada, booby,” and progressed to “kitty, nana, ball,” and so on. Mia has been very wordy since she was tiny, shocking our friends with words like ‘evaporation’ at the age of two!

There is a huge amount of pride to be felt when your children master a new word and use it correctly, but the thing I almost prefer is when they get it slightly wrong, or say something so unexpected it makes you laugh out loud. It makes those long days a little brighter.

We all know the classic mix-ups of aminal hostibal, skellington, par cark (I was a guilty par carker myself when I was little) and that all dead pets go to Devon instead of Heaven, but my kids have come out with some corkers recently. I’ve collected a few, and a

“Where are my muffin ears?” Mia asked me as she was looking for her earmuffs

couple from friends and family too. I hope they bring a

“Oh goodness sake, Mummy,” said by two-year old Jarvis whilst he climbed

“Where are my muffin ears?” Mia asked me as she was looking for her earmuffs. “Is Pevensey in another country? What do they speak in Pevensey? Pevenseyish?” said by Mia and Jarvis’s cousin on the way to the beach.

“I’ve got cit cats!” said Mia shaking her packet of Tic Tacs at me. When Mia and Jarvis play

destination. Mia says, “it doesn’t mind…” for ‘it doesn’t matter’.

“Going skate board?” asked Jarvis on our way to the skate park.

When my children cut anything with scissors they “Sciss it up.”

“I’ve built a constention,” said Mia when building an extension on her Duplo house.

Anything in the future is “next day,” for Mia. She used to say “straight now,” for things she was doing at that moment, for example, “I need a cuddle straight now.” We still use it in our family today.

And I heard rumour of a girl who used to call her tears “panic water.” I don’t think I’ve ever heard a more accurate description of crying! l

Going skate board? asked Jarvis on our way to the skate park

In the heart of Sussex lies an inviting and diverse landscape of untold hidden gems, just waiting to be

Polegate

Kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms

Intensive

If you are in the process of choosing a school for your child, then we have lots to offer! Nestled by the South Downs, in Vale Avenue Worthing, we offer a rich, broad curriculum and exceptional facilities. Come and see our superb primary school for yourself by joining one of our tours on school days throughout autumn.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PRESENTATION

TUES 11 OCTOBER 6.30pm - 7.45pm Doors 6pm

• Find out more about this prestigious and increasingly popular alternative to A Levels

• Study a broad range of subjects and acquire a diploma highly regarded by universities worldwide

OPEN EVENINGS

TUES 1 & WED 2 NOVEMBER 6.30pm - 9pm

• an opportunity to look around our beautiful and unique campus

• find out about the courses we offer and our superb academic track record

• talk to staff and students to discover what it is like to study at Varndean, the outstanding support we provide and our wonderful community atmosphere

Visit our website: WWW.VARNDEAN.AC.UK/EVENTS

Foster care literally changes lives; yours and theirs. Those changes and memories are incredibly rewarding as Karen Venditto from East Sussex County Council Fostering team explains

Foster Care changes lives

EAST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL IS A NATURAL CHOICE

East Sussex County Council provide all kinds of services to the county’s population, including Children’s Services who are responsible for all the children in need of care in East Sussex; their schools, libraries and so on. They have unparalleled experience and a huge team which supports their network of foster carers, children in care, care leavers and their social workers in an established and trusted network 24/7. Everything is all under one very local umbrella. They are your local authority and spend their time focussing on the needs of the children, not on making a profit.

FACTS:

• 9,000 new foster carers are needed across the UK to provide homes full of kindness, patience and guidance to help children and young people feel safe, happy and flourish

• Since 2014, there has been an 11% increase in the number of children coming into care

If you’re wondering if you can become a foster carer (you probably can) it might be confusing working out the best way forward…

BEHIND THE SCENES

“I love my job even with its challenges because I know the work I’ve done throughout my career has made a real difference to children and families facing difficulties. I became a social worker in 1978, and now I manage a fantastic team of over 50 here – practice managers, social workers, caseworkers and admin staff. They are loyal, and truly professional in the way that they carry out all their responsibilities. However, the reality is that the 24/7 responsibility for our young people and the people with the real power to make a difference and change lives are our foster carers and supported lodgings providers. They provide our young people with the positive examples of relationships and parenting that they will take forward in their adult lives. They are dedicated in their work and proud of the positive change we bring to children’s lives. We are fortunate to be supported by East Sussex County Council who have a proven and outstandingly recognised commitment to their looked after children.”

Adrian, Operations Manager #WeChooseEastSussex

• Most foster carers don’t foster for the money. Really. It’s usually a vocational choice. However, fostering for your local authority is a very stable income because they always have local children waiting for fostering placements and payments are from £264 up to £1,048 per week, per placement.

• E SCC always match children’s placements with their own foster carers first. This ensures better outcomes for the children and the fostering family too.

• 8 4% of local children’s placements in 2021/22 were made with ESCC’s own carers.

• It’s your choice who you foster with, but there is an increasing trend towards private agency foster carers

BEHIND THE SCENES

“Friends in my [fostering] support group were chatting the other day and we were working it out and we’ve got two or three hundred years of fostering between us!…

Once you start doing it, no other job seems important compared to it. You have such an impact on these children.”

Helen, East Sussex County Council Foster Carer

transferring to local authorities for many of the reasons above.

SO, COULD YOU BE A FOSTER CARER?

If you are aged over 21, with a spare bedroom a child could call their own, and you have time, understanding and the willingness to support children to thrive, you could foster.

Everyone has their own individual set of circumstances, backgrounds and of course questions.

Here are some common concerns and the answer is YES!

‘Can I foster if…?’

• I’m single

• I’m retired

• We are tenants not homeowners

• I haven’t had my own children, or my kids still live at home

• I’m LGBTQIA+

• I have a disability or medical condition

• I’m religious

• I’m unemployed, or I’d like to keep working alongside fostering

• We have pets

• I don’t have qualifications

• We want to request an age range that would fit in with our family

• I’d love to do this part time. l

If you’ve ever been curious about fostering, now’s the time to find out more and meet the team. Either call the Fostering Recruitment Team on 01323 464129, visit our website or join one of our Virtual Information Events online on the ‘Contact Us’ page.

• Tuesday 11 October 12.30pm to 1.30pm

• Thursday 27 October 5.30pm to 6.30pm eastsussex.gov.uk/EastSussexFostering

Peace of mind at school, work and home

We protect pupils, staff and families across Sussex – and beyond –by making buildings safe. What’s more, we don’t cut corners, because your safety is too important.

We do it right – because it matters

With the pandemic causing redundancies, Everycare can offer staff highly flexible work arrangements that can fit seamlessly with childcare needs or other work commitments. No experience is required because all the necessary training is in-house. Important qualities David’s team are looking for include compassion, understanding, and empathy, plus an ability to listen and respond to the needs of the client. There are also opportunities to take care certificated qualifications Applicants must be able to drive as care is offered to clients over a wide area including Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Cuckfield, Ditchling, Hurstpierpoint and several surrounding villages.

David stressed it is not ‘9-5 work’ it’s an opportunity to be part time or full-time, working hours to suit the individual carer. Pay is market-leading; carers receive a mileage allowance, holiday pay, pension, and are fully insured. The work is hugely rewarding and changes lives for the better.

Keen to keep in touch with the grass roots of Everycare, David views individual staff welfare and the wellbeing of the team as a whole as

Safe at Home

One of the most important things that the recent COVID-19 pandemic has taught us all is the importance of home. Crucially, vulnerable older people may not be aware that they have the choice to remain living in their own home, even though they may need regular or round the clock care.

I met David Dimelow who established Everycare in Mid Sussex in 2013. David and his team have received glowing testimonials from clients and their families ever since.

He explained that worried families may not realise their loved ones don’t need to ‘go into a home’ because his team can provide affordable, compassionate care in those existing, familiar surroundings at home.

Domiciliary care means trusted staff visit clients in their own home, providing regular company; and undertake personal care, meal preparation, medication, laundry, shopping and cleaning duties. Carers can assist with outings, accompanying clients to medical appointments or to activities such as swimming. Once a

One thing we’ve learnt recently is the importance of home, so we sent Ruth Lawrence to meet David Dimelow and learn how Everycare can help individuals remain living in familiar surroundings as they become older and more vulnerable

client’s specific needs are recognised, a tailor-made care package can be swiftly assembled and put into action.

People who have suffered injury or illness often need short-term support to regain their independence and with a tailored care package they can quickly recover their normal lives. There are no commitments, other than to give just a weeks notice when the service is no longer required.

David confided; although his team of over seventy care for in excess of one hundred clients he could provide care services for twice that number if more staff can be found.

just as important to him as client care, welfare and wellbeing.

Testimonials from clients’ families speak volumes about the high esteem Everycare carers are held in by those they support. One gentleman wrote, “The Everycare staff have been far more than just carers” and were “quite extraordinary” in looking after his relative who was able to stay in his own house until the end of his life. Another man praised, “the carers who over the years looked after my lovely wife with such care and compassion.” One lady wrote, “your care for my husband was no less than amazing which eased my stress and sadness with your kindness and understanding. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Anyone who feels their present employment does not acknowledge their value or reward their efforts would do well to consider working with people who need help to remain independent in their own home; something that we might all wish for in our later years.

Should the needs of a client progress beyond routine home visits, there is usually no immediate need for

them to leave their beloved home for unfamiliar surroundings. Everycare offer ‘24/7 Live In Care’ for those who require a continual presence and continual support. This may work out to be more cost effective than people realise. When a person is surrounded by familiar possessions in the familiar surroundings of the home and garden they have always known, they tend to feel more relaxed and less vulnerable to illness or emotional turmoil. Friends can still visit as they always have done, and families are reassured when they visit their loved ones at home where they may have lived a lifetime.

Once a client or family member has contacted Everycare, an initial home visit assesses specific needs and individual preferences, right down to how the client prefers their tea and coffee, how they like to be addressed and where they like to eat their meals. Carers adapt to meet the needs of the client, working around their routine to minimise change which elderly people often find difficult to deal with.

Remaining at home and living out those twilight years in familiar surroundings is a wish that most of us would like to fulfil.

Everycare are adept at providing the staff to keep clients at home; secure, happy and confident, able to live free from stress; allowing families members to relax – safe in the knowledge their loved one is being cared for, safe in the heart of their own home. l

Everycare Mid Sussex 191-193 London Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9RN 01444 244770

midsussex@everycare.co.uk www.everycare.co.uk

L-R: Sue Taplin, Katie Parsons, David Dimelow, Emma Kirby, Jenni Marsh, Karen Smith

We are committed toemploying top qualitycarers. If you have a kindand caring nature and wouldbe interested in joining theEverycare team, pleasecontact the office withyour details.

Don’t miss out on free support for carers

People who care for family members and friends may be eligible for help from Carers Support West Sussex writes Michelle Crowley and Andy Robbins of West Sussex County Council

Do you care for a family member or friend? Many people might not identify themselves as a carer, despite taking on caring responsibilities for relatives and friends who live with disabilities, become ill, are older, and need their support.

If that sounds like you, then you could be eligible for help on matters ranging from benefits to practical guidance on equipment and grants and respite support. Carers Support West Sussex provides free guidance to unpaid carers and has already helped thousands of carers across the county in various ways.

If you or someone you know is a carer aged 18 or older, you can find out more and register with Carers Support West Sussex by visiting www.carerssupport.org.uk or emailing info@carerssupport.org.uk or by calling 0300 028 8888.

That’s exactly what 87-year-old David did. He cares for his wife Jennie, who suffers from several health

conditions, some of which restrict her movement, balance, mobility and speech.

Carers Support West Sussex helped David successfully apply for a Carers Health and Wellbeing Fund, which has helped him and Jennie so that they can continue to enjoy their regular coffee dates at their local yacht club, which is a safe and familiar place for them both.

David said this was something he would not have considered before help came from Carers Support West Sussex, but he is extremely appreciative of this help that has also made him feel less isolated and improved his own wellbeing.

UPDATED WEST SUSSEX CARE GUIDE OUT NOW

If you are starting to think about care for the first time for yourself or someone you support, the updated West Sussex Care Guide is a great place to start. It is free and contains plenty of useful information about the different options available. Many of these

can actually help people maintain their independence and help them to stay in their own home.

Living well in your community: Your West Sussex Care Guide 2022/23 outlines options and contains details of organisations which can support you with your care needs, or those of a loved one.

An excellent starting point for those who are thinking about care for the first time

Councillor Amanda Jupp, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services revealed, “There are a considerable number of care options available to suit a wide variety of needs. Our care guide explains the different types on offer and is full of useful information about the many service providers in West Sussex. It is an excellent starting point for those who are thinking about care for the first time, either for themselves or a loved one, or if they are already accessing support but want to know what other options are available to meet their changing needs.” l

You can view Living well in your community: Your West Sussex Care Guide 2022/23 online as an interactive eBook and browse through it electronically. Alternatively, you can request a printed copy by emailing: socialcare@westsussex.gov.uk or calling 01243 642121

Supporting you to live well independently

The West Sussex Connect to Support website is for anyone in West Sussex who is looking for additional help or support as explained by Jackie Hoare from West Sussex County Council

The Connect to Support website is a good resource for individuals in West Sussex who want to find out information and details on how to maintain their independence, manage day-to-day tasks, and improve their health and wellbeing.

Find information and advice that can make all the difference, including:

• Tips on looking after your physical and mental health;

• Connecting with people in your local community;

• A comprehensive list of dementia support in West Sussex; and

• Advice and support for family and friend carers.

The website also has a money advice section which will be particularly useful in light of rising

household costs, especially energy bills, that will be with us for the foreseeable future. There are lists of organisations that offer reliable and confidential advice about managing your finances, and who can help you check whether there are any benefits or payments that you’re entitled to.

If you or someone you support is at the stage of needing care and support it’s worth visiting the care options section to explore the different alternatives including care at home, sheltered and retirement housing schemes, and extra-care housing. l

Visit westsussexconnecttosupport.org

If you need help using the website, please contact West Sussex County Council’s Adults’ CarePoint

Phone: 01243 642121

Email: socialcare@westsussex.gov.uk

Looking for extra support with your day to day living?

The Connect to Support website is for anyone in West Sussex who is looking for additional help or support to maintain their independence.

Visit our website to:

• discover tips on improving your health and wellbeing

• view equipment to help you stay independent

• find support for carers

• learn about options for extra care and support.

westsussexconnecttosupport.org

Do you need help to use the website?

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Arthritis Action has worked tirelessly for years to ensure people living with arthritis gain the condition and live life to the full. Whether that’s a a tailored nutritional plan or a consultation with one of our clinicians.

Gifts in wills have been critical to our work and are the only way we will be able to reach the increasing number of people living with arthritis.

If you’d like to leave a legacy of hope, please consider a gift in your Will to Arthritis Action today.

There are over 10 million people in the UK living with arthritis. No two people experience it in the same way.

Be who

always

At Care UK being a daredevil doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home.

winning, person centred care for over 40 years.

you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 0330 162

Lifetime Mortgages & Care at

Looking back even 5-10 years ago the prospect of selling your home to fund residential care was even more daunting than the present day and yet the cost of care continues to rise at above inflationary rates.

There has been an increasing trend where homeowners are delaying this major step and taking advantage of the equity in their home to fund care at home. A significant asset is of course their home and the equity is being unlocked through lifetime mortgages.

Lifetime mortgages are simply mortgages that last for your lifetime that carry the following features and safeguards:

•You can stay in your home until you die or go into long term care.

•The interest rate is fixed (or capped) for your lifetime.

•There is a no negative equity guarantee.

•You can move home (subject to survey) and ‘port’ the mortgage to the new property. You may need to reduce the mortgage depending on the value of the new property.

•You can make optional interest payments during the

By Richard Lucy

and

term of the mortgage. If no interest payments are made then interest rolls up and equity reduces.

When it comes to funding care at home a recent example springs to mind. A couple in their late 70s where Mrs H needs care at home due to having physical immobility and her husband who needs care at home due to moderate dementia. To be able to top up the care costs from retirement income using a lifetime mortgage was ideal, as an initial lump sum can be released to cover immediate

needs with further drawdowns every quarter to meet this ongoing cost of care at home. This avoids the need to ‘prematurely’ consider going into residential care. If either does need to go into care then the other can continue to live at home.

Even if you don’t need care at home then other examples of why one might draw equity are almost endless. The amount that can be borrowed depends on the borrower’s age and the value of the property ie the lower the percentage of the property’s value being borrowed then the lower the interest rate.

Currently, the lowest rate available is with a lender which would lend an 80 year old man and 76 year old lady up to 30% of the value of a property

(e.g. £150,000 on a £500,000 property). A couple where the youngest is 55 years old could borrow just 7.5% (£37,500) of the value of the same property*. However, at the top end the most that could be borrowed is 50-55% of the value of the property*, for a couple age 80 and 76 respectively or as high as 57% for a lady age 85.

Lifetime mortgages are comprehensive financial products, if they are right for you, and have considerable consumer protection wrapped around them. The key is to get bespoke advice. For my part I have been advising on equity release schemes from across the market for over 15 years and have seen considerable change and most of these changes have truly been to the benefit of homeowners.

FINANCE

Visual freedom for whatever you do

Laser eye surgery offers a safe and effective solution for people with poor vision to be able to see clearly again and live their lives without glasses or contact lenses.

Because your eyesight is arguably your most precious sense, it is highly important you choose a surgeon and clinic with the very best credentials. We are often the choice for many doctors, eye surgeons and optometrists who have complete trust in us to deliver the very best eye care.

Perhaps the highest accolade is that we receive a great many referrals from patients who are delighted with their outcomes.

Book your

MAD HONEY

By Jodi Picoult

A soul-stirring novel about what we choose to keep from our past from the New York Times bestselling author of Wish You Were Here and She’s Not There.

Olivia McAfee knows what it feels like to start over. From a picture-perfect life living in Boston, she never imagined that she would end up back in her sleepy New Hampshire hometown, living in the house she grew up in and taking over her father’s beekeeping business.

Lily Campanello is also familiar with new starts as she and her mum relocate to New Hampshire for her final year of high school, they both hope it will be a fresh start.

And for just a short while, these new beginnings are exactly what Olivia and Lily need. Their paths cross when Olivia’s son Asher falls for the new girl in school, and Lily can’t help but fall for him, too.

Then one day, Olivia receives a phone call: Lily is dead, and Asher is being questioned by the police. Olivia is adamant that her son is innocent, but suspense, love story and exploration of the secrets we keep threatens to build to a powerful crescendo.

Published by Hodder & Stoughton on November 15th

FACT

50 TIMES FOOTBALL CHANGED THE WORLD

By Gary Lineker

& Ivor Baddiel

Like him or loathe him for his Twitter antics, football legend Gary Lineker – with the help of Ivor Baddiel – has put together a collection of truly uplifting, empowering and extraordinary football stories that have inspired him throughout his career.

ORThese serve to highlight the aweinspiring, heart-warming and eye-opening moments that have changed the game – and sometimes the world – forever. From pioneering players, trailblazing managers, and incredible tales both on and off the pitch, this book contains everything you

This month, four new book releases are previewed by Adele Trathan, as the build-up to the busy reading season begins this autumn

SOFT LAD: A COLLECTION OF STORIES (ABOUT ME)

By Nick Grimshaw

For the first time, DJ a nd presenter Nick Grimshaw shares his outlooks, surprising obsessions, the things that have shaped him and his personal experiences with the world.

From his move from Oldham, Greater Manchester, to the bright lights of London, to his 14-year career climbing to the helm of the Radio

1 Breakfast Show, he discusses everything from his love of music through to self-care, partying, life-changing nights out, growing up, Red Nose Day, coming out, dogs, family, ADHD, Catholicism, and all that he’s seen in-between.

These are Grimmy’s stories of things that have gone right and wrong across his life and career so far, with all the highs and lows and everything in-between.

Nostalgic and heartfelt, it shines a humorous and captivating lens on the ever-evolving cultural obsessions we live by.

Published by Hodder & Stoughton on October 27th

MADE WITH LOVE

By Tom Daley

Not content with winning four Olympic medals for Team GB for diving, Tom Daley has released his own line of knitting kits and a long-awaited debut knitting and crochet book – Made with Love. Describing it as part of his mindfulness routine, Tom is on a mission to inspire the next generation of crafters.

From covetable gifts to chic homeware, cosy accessories and stylish wardrobe essentials, Tom offers helpful tips and tricks to support even the most tentative of beginners. So, whether you are a complete

Expert advice on paying for care

Long-term care in your own home or in a residential care home is expensive, but with expert advice from independent financial specialists, Carewise can help you to make informed decisions on choosing and paying for the right care.

The Carewise care fees specialists are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and members of the Society of Later Life Advisers, so you can have peace of mind when discussing your finances.

Carewise could also help to protect your finances for the future. Contact Carewise to find out how you could benefit.

DYING TO KNOW part 1 –THE MONEY STUFF with RICHARD SMITH

Financial consultant, estate planner, author of The Great British Pension Swindle.

We all know we are going to die but have you, like so many, put off thinking about it? The sheer volume of paperwork and changing rules can be very daunting.

Richard has more than 30 years’ experience of the finance industry including insurance and banking. He has his finger on the pulse of the nuances of the most recent changes, and will guide you through the paperwork jungle with a wealth of practical advice that could save you thousands of pounds in fees as well as hours of time, stress and hassle.

He will cover such key areas as: The importance of a Will, the subtleties of wording

Probate Inheritance Tax

Lasting Power of Attorney Care Home Fees, End-of-Life Care Finance Plenty of time for questions and answers.

FRIDAY 21st OCTOBER 10.30am – 4.30pm

TICKETS £35 includes a comprehensive information pack to take away with you

BIRCH GROVE SUITE, BLUEBELL RAILWAY, SHEFFIELD PARK TN22 3QL

If you want a natural burial, a zero emissions hearse and a tree planted in your memory, have it.

& Conditions: The voucher may only be redeemed against eligible Southern Co-op funeral plans costing £3,000 or more and will be deducted off the cost at time of sale. The voucher has no cash value and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, offer or promotion. For full terms and conditions visit: funeralcare.co.uk/funeralplanterms, request a copy from any Southern Co-op

or by calling 0800 008 6878. This voucher is valid until 31/12/2022.

What are the signals and symptoms of a heart attack? Adele Trathan offers some guidance on the signs that might indicate that you may be having a heart attack

THE HEART

OF THE MATTER

It’s true to say that where heart attacks are concerned, survival rates have never been higher in the UK. What’s more, the 1.4million Brits who have come back from cardiac arrest are the best evidence that good detection combined with accomplished care, mean life can go back to being somewhere close to normal, even after suffering a medical emergency that most would name as the most terrifying of their lives.

Indeed, of those 1.4million people, a good proportion will have recognised, noted and acted upon the symptoms having read about the tell-tale signs previously, so with that in mind, here is our guide to detecting when you might be having a heart attack, and the steps you should take.

WHAT IS A HEART ATTACK?

Firstly, to properly define a heart attack, it is when your bloodpumping organ goes into cardiac arrest.

Blood, which carries oxygen to the heart, is unable to make its

way through the coronary artery. In most cases this is caused by the build-up of cholesterol and fatty matter in the arteries.

While blood vessels in other parts of the heart may increase in size in order to make up for the shortfall, the blockage can form into a blood clot leaving that part of the heart starved of oxygen and unable to function.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms will vary between men and women, and it is thought that women display a greater range of these and they are more easily detectable, though many are familiar across both sexes. These include:

❤ Chest pain and discomfort. This begins in the centre of the chest and will feel like pain or indigestion. The sensation can come and go, or it might be constant.

❤ Spreading pain. Aching and physical distress may well spread to arms, neck, back and even the jaw.

Additionally,

feeling of nausea, sickness, dizziness and confusion may come on.

T hirst. Many people experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack complain of a raging thirst.

Pa nic. The variety of symptoms outlined above will make the body go into panic mode, though the most important thing is to remain calm and seek urgent help.

TREATMENT

In the first instance, anyone fearing they are showing signs of having a heart attack should phone for an ambulance. The next step, if alone, is to ask a friend or relative to come over to sit with you until professional help arrives.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to drive yourself to hospital – this may in fact end up endangering not just your own life, but that of other road users and pedestrians.

THE AFTERMATH

Although the section of the heart starved of oxygen will never fully recover, the body will produce scar tissue and in a matter of weeks you should be working back up to an excellent level of recovery.

Indeed, many people take the shock of cardiac arrest as a solemn indication that old habits and lifestyle choices need to be changed; and a good proportion actually end up healthier after cardiac arrest than they were before the incident.

That said, the best tool to preserve good health is prevention of habits that can escalate to cardiac arrest, which means a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and the limiting or tempering of unhealthy temptations, such as excessive drinking or smoking. l

It is thought that women display a greater range of these and they are more easily detectable

Working together for your local hospitals

We support hospital projects that fall outside of core NHS funding:

• Cutting-edge medical equipment

Next year, our beloved NHS turns 75. In that time we have witnessed developments in health care never thought possible before such as MRI scans, organ transplants, keyhole surgery and vaccines. Looking to the future, technological advancements across the NHS are set to continue in ways that will truly revolutionise the quality of care we all receive in hospital.

• NHS staff health & wellbeing

To ensure the people of Sussex have access to the most up-to-date health care, two local NHS charities are already leading the way. Love Your Hospital and BSUH Charity are the dedicated charities of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, raising funds to improve the hospital experience of every patient, visitor and staff member across seven hospitals in East and West Sussex.

• Innovative clinical research

...and so much more

Scan to support your local hospitals today

the patient experience for complex four to eight hour operations, helping patients to return home much sooner. This investment from the charity has enabled our local hospitals to establish a full robotics programme that will continue to deliver benefits and improve patient outcomes moving forward.

The charities help to provide the ‘nice-to-haves’ outside of core government funding such as stateof-the-art medical equipment, supporting NHS staff health and wellbeing through art therapy, recognition awards, extended counselling services and enhancing the hospital environment for all with investment into green spaces and improved public areas.

Revolutionary robotics

In 2021, BSUH Charity invested £1.6 million into a robotic arm used to perform many types of complex procedures with more precision, flexibility and control than is possible with conventional surgical techniques. The Da Vinci Xi Robot is the first piece of equipment of its kind introduced at the Trust, and has revolutionised

www.loveyourhospital.org

Registered Charity No. 1049201

“Robotic-assisted surgery enables us to deliver sophisticated treatments. The Da Vinci Xi Robot uses specialised technology to deliver precise care, even in hard-to-reach areas and enables quicker recovery for our patients.”

Ammar Alanbuki, Consultant Urological Surgeon and Robotic Lead

Transforming the hospital experience

www.bsuh.nhs.uk/charity

Registered Charity No. 1050864

Every day, dedicated teams of play specialists support young patients and their families during their hospital stay on our childrens wards. Love Your Hospital has worked closely with play teams across St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester and Worthing Hospital to provide funding for play and entertainment equipment, including a state-of-the-art interactive gaming cart with the latest technology.

Customised and specifically built for the medical environment, the carts include an Xbox S Series gaming console

or Nintendo Switch, pre-loaded with a minimum of 20 of the latest age-appropriate games. This provides poorly children with much-needed play at the bedside to reduce stress, promote wellbeing and maintain a sense of normality away from home comforts.

“Coming to hospital can be a stressful experience for children and young people. The new gaming carts are amazing and provide a welcome distraction, supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of our young patients. They are thrilled to see the cart is loaded with the latest games and apps which have brought many smiles.

Shelley Hill, Play Specialist at St Richard’s Hospital Children’s Ward

Together we can change the future of Sussex health care

Working together for your local hospitals

While our charities will be at the forefront of supporting this evolution in care across your local hospitals, support from the Sussex community will be pivotal. Investing in developments such as robotics, artificial intelligence and cutting edge research will revolutionise patient care for everyone across the county.

Donate today and help your local hospital to provide innovative health care for you and your loved ones now and for generations to come.

Love Your Hospital is the dedicated NHS charity for three hospitals across West Sussex: St Richard’s Hospital Worthing Hospital Southlands Hospital

projects that

NHS funding:

BSUH Charity is the dedicated NHS charity for four hospitals across Brighton and Haywards Heath: The Royal Sussex County Hospital Princess Royal Hospital Sussex Eye Hospital Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital

BUS IT!

If you are of state pension age you can travel off-peak on local buses anywhere in England, as far and as often as you like, writes Faye Rogers from West Sussex County Council

While it’s true that not many things in life are free these days, one thing that does remain free is the senior person’s bus pass. A nd if you tell us your views on bus travel this autumn, you could be in with the chance of winning £100 of supermarket vouchers*.

The free bus pass is available to all state pensioners (currently aged 66 and above) and it means you can travel off-peak on local buses anywhere in England as far, and as often, as you like.

Not only does using a bus pass save you money on car costs and parking charges,

but it’s also a greener way to travel, something which Jaki, from Petworth, appreciates. She said, “Using my bus pass has many benefits. I still work twice a week and

the free bus pass saves me money on car parking costs, petrol, plus wear and tear on my car. It’s more relaxing than driving and means I don’t have to travel on my own. It’s also very sociable; you get to meet all sorts of people to have a chat to.”

She continued, “When I travel to Chichester on the bus, it drops me off right in the centre of town, much easier than having to walk in from a car park, which is extremely helpful if it’s raining.

“After a while you get to know the bus driver and the

other regular passengers. As a pensioner of a limited income, the bus pass means I can travel all over England and it gives me the chance to make different journeys and explore new places for free.”

You get to meet all sorts of people to have a chat to

Jaki also uses her free bus pass on holiday, or in the school holidays when she wants to take her grandchildren for a day out.

An online survey and competition* has been launched by West Sussex County Council to understand pensioners’ views on bus travel and the bus pass. We want to hear from you, whether you love travelling on the bus already or you aren’t yet a convert to bus travel.

Pensioners can plan their route, apply for their free bus pass or take part in the survey at www. westsussex.gov.uk/freebuspass

I think I saw Michael Bublé is touring, would you fancy going along with your best friend as a

present?

ARTFUL

Scandinavian influences, modern art and clever planning inspired Teresa Brewer and Bill Mathers as they knocked two cottages into one new light filled, spacious home

LOCATION: West Sussex coast

THE PROPERTY: Two Victorian cottages knocked into one property

THE OWNERS: Teresa Brewer and Bill Mathers

ROOMS:

Hall, sitting room, kitchen dining/living room, utility room, boot room, cloakroom, laundry, four bedrooms, two with en suite, family bathroom

n first impression, the front of Teresa Brewer’s pretty Victorian cottages knocked into one, gives nothing away. It is only when the front door opens, that the impact of her light contemporary style hits you. “It is the contrast between outside and inside that surprises people,” said Teresa. “Most expect to find cottage size rooms and period features, instead of the open plan lateral space, polegate@sussexfireplacegallery.com

which we have created.” The next surprise is the sculptured stone staircase, which lit from below, seems to float in space.

Teresa and her husband Bill moved to the West Sussex coastal village over ten years ago, having bought a three-hundred-year old cottage from a friend. Teresa explained, “although we loved the cottage there was no room for friends and family to stay.” After a year or so, and through an amazing stroke of luck they eventually

Subconsciously or not, some seaside colours have crept into Teresa’s choice of soft furnishings

“My kitchen is really important to me,” said Teresa who loves to cook and takes joy in its clean lines

The painting of lilies bought by Teresa is set within a specially sized recess above the extending walnut dining table

bought two adjacent cottages to knock into one.

“We virtually built a whole new house behind the old facades using the footprint of the two cottages,” said Teresa. “Bill designed the house with the help of an amazing local builder. I remember them pouring over several drawings, editing and amalgamating the best ideas, until we were all satisfied.”

Two staircases from the old cottages were replaced by one flight of stone stairs leading off the entrance hall. The walls between the old cottages were removed to create one big living/dining space and the footprint of the Victorian front parlours now define the new hall and snug. Upstairs the space was configured to create 4 new double bedrooms, two en suite bathrooms and a family bathroom.

Buying the right fittings and furniture was an adventure enjoyed by both Teresa and Bill. “We

“We enjoy having friends over,” Teresa explained how the open living space plays a vital role in their lifestyle

A horse painting blends with some smoke blue cushions in the sitting room

Conduct Authority

790587 for

sourced some things in unlikely places,” recalled Teresa, as she pointed to the hall floor, which they bought off an exhibition stand on the closing day at Earls Court. A leftover piece of the floor was used to make a coffee tabletop which was added to a frame made from angle irons. Several iconic pieces like the Danish teak 50s sideboard were bought through online auction sites. Other historic pieces like the 1920s steamer chair in the hall are reminders of the proximity of the sea.

Below the sweeping stone staircase in the hall, a bull’s head sculpture makes a strong visual statement

We love going to art shows and nearly always find ourselves homing in on the same works

Subconsciously or not, some seaside colours have crept into Teresa’s choice of soft furnishings, in several shades of blue, turquoise and sea green. As an estate agent, she gets to see around more houses than most people, and as space is always such a premium, she has reached a simple conclusion; “why clutter it up? I am not a minimalist,” she said emphatically, “but I do like clean uncluttered space and simplicity.”

In the snug, which is nearest to being cosy and traditional, Teresa introduced a few simple patterns but otherwise she has held strictly to her plan for plain. “Much of the visual excitement is carried in the paintings and sculpture which

The soft relaxed atmosphere achieved by cleverly concealed lighting is a reminder of the importance of careful planning

Inspired by colours in the paintings, Teresa chose a deep blue for walls in the snug contrasted by a light oak floor

Bill and I collect together. We love going to art shows and nearly always find ourselves homing in on the same works.” Their collection is proudly displayed and makes an impressive statement.

Unusually for a modern house, the ceilings are entirely free of spotlights creating a seamless style, the result of the ingenious lighting plan. Light sources were built into recesses in the walls and concealed behind floating ceilings, below kitchen units and within shelves. The soft relaxed atmosphere achieved by cleverly concealed lighting is a reminder of the importance of careful planning and attention to detail. For instance, many of the paintings occupy specially sized individual recesses. In the kitchen the extractor is hidden within the depth of a single shelf. Truly this is a state-of-the-art venture. “It is our largest project to date,” said Teresa. Somehow you sense there could be more in the pipeline and there is a talented group of people destined to improve the housing stock. Teresa and Bill definitely fall into that category. l

Photos: Living4Media/Robert Sanderson Styling & Writing: Living4Media/Maggie Colvin

Buying the right fittings and furniture was an adventure enjoyed by both Teresa and Bill

Restful simplicity characterises the style of the bathroom clad in white marble

The bedroom colour scheme has accents of yellow in bedside lamps

Fun and Affordable Ways to Invest

The past year of general financial uncertainty has brought a fresh legion of bidders to auction rooms.

People looking for alternative ways of investing are increasingly finding auctions a fun and affordable way of spending their money, and it’s jewellery and watches that seem to generate the most interest.

Gold prices have steadily increased recently, pushing the prices of jewellery and gold coins to an all-time high.

Burstow and Hewett

Auctioneers, a family business based in Battle since 1790, found that during the lockdown it was jewellery and watches that had a massive following at their online auction sales.

Will Ellin, the fourth generation of the Ellin family to run the auction rooms, is a qualified gemologist and is enthusiastic and excited for the future. “The live online bidding has really

come alive over the past year, and there’s huge demand for good wristwatches. Not just the

The jewellery and watch section of the auction has quadrupled in size over the past year and the sale usually offers 600-800 lots every 4 weeks. Every lot has multiple photos and a full condition report so that buyers know exactly what they are bidding for and can bid with confidence. Will tests, grades and analyses diamonds and precious stones, so that they can have an accurate catalogue description.

So if you have any jewellery or watches that you’ve been thinking about selling, or would just like to find out what it might be worth, then Battle is the place to go. There’s no obligation to sell, and no charge for a verbal valuation.

The beauty of selling anything at auction is that your items are seen by a worldwide audience, but sold for you by a trusted local firm which has been in Sussex for generations. Come and say hello.

premium names but also military watches, retro style, and pocket watches. Collectors can now bid live on our own website, so it’s much easier to get involved in an auction than ever before.”

For free advice on selling, call Burstow and Hewett 01424 772374 or visit burstowandhewett.co.uk

Lewes Farmers Market

The Sussex Guild Shop & Gallery

For a sumptuous selection of the best of fresh, local Sussex produce. Established in 1998, Lewes Farmers Market has kept its commitment to seasonal, handcrafted goods, supporting small scale and environmentally friendly businesses.

We have a wide selection of organic vegetables, cheeses, artisan breads, homemade cakes, organic milk and yoghurt, eggs, free range meats, wild game, pies, jams, pickles, gin and craft beers, vegan and gluten free delights, wool for knitting and even healthy dog treats! Open the first and third Saturday of every month, 9am to 1pm, Friars Walk car park, one minute walk from the Lewes precinct. lewesfarmersmarket@gmail.com www.commoncause.org.uk/lewes-farmers-market

The designer makers of The Sussex Guild have a permanent Shop and Gallery in the lovely, historic county town of Lewes as well as an Online Shop.

The Guild Shop & Gallery is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10am to 5pm. The shop is staffed by the makers themselves, so each has good knowledge of work in their own discipline and personally knows the other makers so is in a good position to give you all the help you may need.

www.thesussexguild.co.uk

The North Wing, Southover Grange, Southover Road, Lewes, BN7 1TP 01273 479565 guildshop@thesussexguild.co.uk

Charity No: 292234

Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care

Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care, in partnership with Spectrum Eyecare, is located in the heart of Lewes and ready to care for all your vision and hearing needs. You’ll find brilliantly boutique glasses and sunglasses across a multitude of brands, patient-focussed care and a trusted team.

We offer eye examinations, contact lenses, full free hearing assessments, ear wax removal, free tinnitus assessments, care plans and more. When it comes to caring for your vision, why not choose the very best?

Our Ultimate Eye Examination combines pioneering technology with clinical excellence to capture 2D and 3D

pictures of your eyes to give us a full picture of your eye health. This can help us to spot early signs of diabetes, macula conditions and glaucoma. The sooner we detect changes in your vision, the sooner we can help you manage them.

More than anything, we believe in listening and empathising with you, passing on our knowledge and delighting you with the best service possible.

To see. To hear. To live life – to the full. Book online today at www.leightons.co.uk 0800 40 20 20 24-25 Cliffe High Street, Lewes, BN7 2AH

Location: Lewes

The county town of East Sussex is quirky, fiercely independent, steeped in history and a whole lot of fun to visit writes Sara Whatley

Lewes is an Aladdin’s Cave nestled in the South Downs; every time you visit this ancient market town you will be delighted by a new wonder, discover a new favourite shop or a beautiful secret garden.

Thousands of visitors are attracted here every year to meander along the medieval cobbled streets and enjoy the history, shopping and unique lifestyle Lewes has to offer. Not to mention the countless cafes, restaurants and pubs at every turn.

Antique lovers throng for the numerous antique shops trading in ceramics and furniture, as well as flea markets, second hand clothes shops, bookshops specialising in rare books, markets and countless elegant independent boutiques.

Those wanting to in indulge in all the history Lewes has to offer simply have to walk the streets to pass timber framed Tudor houses and traditional

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Lewes Bonfire

Sussex brick buildings. The Norman castle towers over the town and you will also find Anne of Cleves House where you can learn how the Tudors and Elizabethans lived, and the Priory of St Pancras where you can walk in the footsteps of medieval monks. Thomas Paine, writer and revolutionary, also lived in Lewes, in The Bull House from 1768 until 1774.

Lewes has long been known for welcoming artists, musicians and creative thinkers and

as such there is as a thriving scene of exhibitions, live music and talks about the town. An independent cinema down by the railway station is a great arts hub.

The River Ouse cuts through the town and offers peaceful riverside walks and picturesque bridges. The well known local brewery also sits next to the river in the heart of the town and fills the air with hoppy goodness.

And for those wanting to venture outside the town, just a stone’s throw from Lewes you will find Monks House, where Virginia and Leonard Woolf lived, Glyndebourne, and Charleston Farmhouse, where the Bloomsbury group resided.

The delights never seem to end in Lewes; it is a bewitching town and one that casts its spell on visitors and residents alike. l

Lewes Castle

This Norman fortress looms over the town from high on a hill Pells Pool

An invigorating fresh water lido from 1860 surrounded by pine trees

Southover Grange Gardens

Beautiful formal gardens surround a charming 16th century Grade II listed manor house

Hedonistic and pagan celebrations set the entire town ablaze on November 5th

Lewes FC

Semi professional football club who play at The Dripping Pan

Star Brewery Gallery

Housed in the renovated 18th-century Star Brewery building, this delightful visual arts exhibition space was first established as the Star Gallery in the late 1980s and was later known as the Hop Gallery. It was renamed as the Star Brewery Gallery by the artist Neeta Pedersen who took over the space in February 2020. The gallery has a history of hosting exhibitions by local, regional, national and international artists and showcasing both established and up-and-coming talented artists. This multi-functional space is ideal for displaying not only traditional and contemporary art and sculpture but also installations and craftwork of various kinds.

Admission: Free, Opening times: Check the website for details www.starbrewerygallery.com Star Brewery Gallery, Castle Ditch Lane, Lewes, BN7 1YJ 07932 500 952

Welcome to The Seasons Lewes

Bags of Books

You’ll find us on the eclectic Cliffe High Street in the heart of Lewes, right next door to the Trading Post Café. We’re a family-run business with our main branch in Forest Row, alongside our new organic café. From the beginning, our Lewes branch was always going to be a little different, with over 190 refill dispensers and most items being either plastic free or locally produced. We have refill stations for dried goods, including tea, coffee, herbs and spices. As well as cleaning products, laundry liquids, shampoos and conditioners. Our main focus now is to encourage people to not use a paper bag but to bring their own containers when refilling. There’s a bonus to using the refill option, you could

A gorgeous independent children’s bookshop based in Lewes with booksellers who love talking about books, books and more BOOKS! We feel passionately about helping children to find great quality books that will inspire them to become readers for life. We seek out those really great children’s books that we know kids (and parents!) will love… We know that sharing books with children is a wonderful and important thing to do and if you can’t visit our bookshop then we hope our website is the next best thing. Storytime is every Monday and other bookish events can be found on the website. bags-of-books.co.uk

1 South Street, Lewes, BN7 2BT 01273 479320

save between 10% to 30% compared to buying the same product in a plastic bag!

Offering an extensive range of fresh Organic and Biodynamic fruit and vegetables, freshly baked artisan bread, organic make-up and skincare. Try something new at our tasting events which are held most Fridays. Our weekly home delivery service is proving very popular, check your postcode on our website to see if you qualify. We’ve also launched a loyalty card scheme, which gives points, special offers and discounts, please ask in store for details. 16-17 Cliffe High St, Lewes, BN7 2AH www.seasonswholefoods.co.uk 01273 359200

Chalk GalleryAutumn at Riverside

Local autumnal produce and a place to relax at Riverside in Lewes. A host of places to enjoy a coffee, or a bite to eat at Riverside Brasserie, Riverside Café and Bubble & Bao. For seasonal farm shop goodies pop into Nose2Tail or treat yourself to daily caught fresh fish and shellfish at The Fish at Riverside. Indulge in chocolate delights from Poppy’s and a wealth of craft kits from the-stitchery. If you have time you can even get freshened up with a new look from The Barber Shop or visit ESPY Tattoo Studio for cool clothing, artwork and of course permanent inkings!

www.riverside-lewes.co.uk

Cliffe High Street, Lewes BN7 2RE

The Grain Store Lewes

The Grain Store is a luxury holiday home in Lewes, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and big skies. A haven for day dreamers, adventure seekers and those looking to unleash their creativity. This beautiful, light-filled, 3 bedroom holiday home is ideal for weekend breaks, family holidays, celebrations, team meetings and away-days.

Chalk Gallery is situated in an elegant 19th century town house not far from the High Street in Lewes. Established as an artist-run gallery in 2005, it is now a well-loved destination for art lovers. You will receive a warm welcome from the artist on duty, and the chance to peruse paintings, prints, ceramics and glassware in a range of styles and subjects. Exhibitions are carefully curated to a high standard, with a completely new display of work every nine weeks. This, plus regular guest artists and special events, means there is always a new reason to visit this inspiring gallery.

Chalk Gallery, open 11-4pm, Thursday - Sunday 4 North Street, Lewes, BN7 2PA

www.chalkgallerylewes.co.uk 01273 474477

We’re also an established creative shoot location –providing the perfect setting to bring your vision to life. As an eco-conversion, we’re proud of our heritage, philosophy and design principles of Simple, Functional & Beautiful. Our location on the edge of the South Downs National Park, provides you with direct access to the iconic South Downs Way. Simply step out and savour your surroundings, whatever the weather, or time of year. We’re also just a 15 minute drive from the historic market town of Lewes, which is known for its rich creative heritage and cultural significance in the South East. Sign up to our newsletter on the website for offers and late availability and follow us on instagram to keep up to date on all our news!

www.thegrainstorelewes.com @thegrainstorelewes 01273 713 339

Image credits; Acrylic on wood panel by Andrew Milne, watercolour by Lindsey Pearson and ceramic bowl by Yolande Beer

The holidays are arriving in December with Christmas, Hannukah and for Buddhists: Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment) being celebrated/marked. Even if these religious holidays mean little to you, many of us will be having time off. The bank holi days fall on the Monday 27th and 28th December, so a 4-day weekend this year. Have you planned what you are doing already or are you thinking there might be another lockdown?

The holiday season can be challenging as a parent. It’s especially challenging when separated and not having quite sorted out the arrangements. I work with parents using a workbook called, ‘Our Family in Two Homes’ which really helps us think about what’s important and when. It creates an easy way of talking about where the children will be and when. So, when you instruct me as a lawyer or as a mediator you will get one of these workbooks charged at cost price. It’s priceless for both parents to be able to work/think

Jo is excited to announce her new One service

Child Inclusive Mediation

Giving children a voiceSince the advent of no fault divorce it seems sensible to sort things out without any acrimony. Why not continue in that vein when sorting out the financial settlement and parenting plans?

separately and then share (what they want to share) with me so we can cre ate a parenting plan that incorporates this holiday season and all the other important times ahead. Then everyone knows where they are and that makes life a whole lot easier.

Costs will be cheaper if you only use one solicitor.

United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child… ’was agreed by governments (including ours) around the world in 1989. It says what they must do so that children grow as healthy as possible, can learn at school, receive protection, have their views listened to and are treated fairly. All the rights in the Convention apply to every child, no matter who they are or where they come from.’ (Pocket Book of Children’s Rights, UNICEF).

The Infographic here explains a bit more about it.

Article 12 – ‘Every child has the right to have a say in all matters affecting them, and to have their views taken seriously.’

Please call to discuss what might be the best process for you on 07780676212 or email jo@osullivanfamilylaw.com

Child Inclusive Mediation does just that. It enables the child (with the consent of both parents and the child(ren) to have their views heard. It does not mean that the child will be asked where they want to live

For more details about how I work visit www.osullivanfamilylaw.com

Please call to discuss what might be the best process on 07780676212 or email jo@osullivanfamilylaw.com

Lewes Office for client meetings

Please call to discuss what might be the best process for you on 07780676212 or email jo@osullivanfamilylaw.com

For more details about how I work visit www.osullivanfamilylaw.com

An image of the workbook we use with families

For more details about how I work visit www.osullivanfamilylaw.com

JO O’SULLIVAN

Dandelion Clock Antiques Centre

Gill Bustamante Artist

The tiny shop front in Forest Row belies the tardis-like interior of The Dandelion Clock. This antiques centre offers antiques and collectables, old pine furniture, vintage furniture, lace, vintage fashion and much more. Established in 1995, the centre has 12 experienced dealers spread over two floors with an ever-changing stock, from chess sets to chests of drawers there is something for all tastes and pockets. Each of our experts has a different area of expertise, so they will be able to offer advice on anything you may require.

Mon - Sat. 10 - 5pm 01342 822335

The Dandelion Clock, Lewes Road, Forest Row RH18 5ES www.dandelionantiques.co.uk

My name is Gill Bustamante and I am an artist who paints large semi abstract landscapes that are inspired by the Sussex area. My painting style fuses magical, colourful and ethereal elements along with Impressionist, semi-abstract, Art Nouveau and something I term ‘Memory Impressionism’. This is where I go walking somewhere rural, look at and absorb the things I see and experience, then come home and try to capture an ‘echo’ of the place from memory, including any wildlife I may have seen. My paintings reflect the spiritual echoes of beautiful places such as the Sussex countryside and it always fascinates me what emerges on to a canvas from a simple memory. www.gillbustamante.com artist@gillbustamante.com Instagram: gill.bustamante.artist Facebook: GillBustamanteArtist

Welcome to the Seasons Whole Foods and Kitchen

We are a thriving independent health food shop in the vibrant village of Forest Row. We not only offer an extensive range of high-quality Organic and Biodynamic foods, but since we opened back in 1971, we have become the centre and social hub of the local community.

Our product range includes local eggs, dairy, freshly baked sourdough bread and Organic and Biodynamic fruit and vegetables. We specialise in vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free products and offer a healthy range of snacks. Upstairs you can find a fabulous collection of Organic cosmetics and refill stations for dried goods, zero waste and eco-friendly cleaning products.

In 2021 we opened The Seasons Kitchen, our beautiful Vegetarian Café which is located on Hartfield Road. We serve breakfast, lunch, cakes, hot drinks and delicious fresh juices. The shop and the café work in synergy to create their seasonal menus and our team lovingly prepare everything from scratch. Our new Café Manager, Zach, is there to provide a warm welcome as we head into the festive season.

The Seasons Kitchen, 10/11 Hartfield Road, Forest Row RH18 5DN seasons-kitchen.co.uk 01342 601010

Seasons Whole Foods, 1/2 Medway House, Lower Rd, Forest Row RH18 5HE seasonswholefood.co.uk 01342 824673

Forest Row &

EAST GRINSTEAD

Nestled in green and lovely countryside you will find the bustling village of Forest Row and larger town of East Grinstead, both an absolute delight says Sara Whatley

Much like the thriving arts scene in Lewes, the village of Forest Row is a Mecca for artists and creators too.

The location of Forest Row – surrounded by lush green forests and heathland – makes it a unique place brimming with walking and exploring possibilities. Bike, hike, run or walk along trails and visit the other numerous beautiful little villages in the surrounding area. Happily, you are never far from a cosy country pub around this way either, perfect for a refreshing pit stop.

The village of Forest Row is very well catered for with its independent shops and businesses. An excellent selection of schools and community minded activities surround the area as well. Health and wellness is a large focus in Forest Row, with a yoga studio and a huge array of alternative therapies and spiritualities on offer.

Three miles up the road from Forest Row and crossing over the boarder into West Sussex is the market town of East Grinstead. Here you will find the historic medieval high street full of busy shops, restaurants and cafes, but also plentiful green and lovely spaces too.

One can venture from East Grinstead to Forest Row via the Forest Way, a rural pathway which passes through these locations and on to Hartfield in an Easterly direction out of Forest Row.

The spiritual and alternative therapy movement is strong in East Grinstead too with many artists and creatives residing and working there. Enjoy a buzzing nightlife in the pubs and bars with live music and open mic nights too.

Passing directly though East Court Mansion in East Grinstead is the Greenwich Meridian Line. Find it in the beautiful grounds of the 18th century Grade II listed building where it is marked by terracotta markers and an Iron Stone rock installation.

Is it something in the air, water or soil in this area? Whatever it is, it has created a vibrant and vital village and town full of mystery and magic. l

TOP ATTRACTIONS

The Ashdown Forest Walk for miles on the magical forests and heathlands

Weir Wood Reservoir

A nationally important nature reserve and watersports playground too Bluebell Railway

East Grinstead is the northern terminus of the prestigious heritage railway Winnie-the-Pooh

A.A. Milne’s classic children’s story is set in the Ashdown Forest where one can play Pooh sticks at Pooh Bridge

East Grinstead Museum

Discover the old market town and history of the surrounding area

Grinstead Museum

Come along to the Ballard & Shortall Dementia Café and enjoy a morning coffee or tea and slice of cake. All are welcome and it is free to attend on the last Friday of every month, from 11am to 12.30pm, at The Swan in Forest Row.

An opportunity get out and about, socialise in a safe and understanding environment, talk about Dementia and indulge in some complimentary light refreshments. For more information please contact Pippa on the telephone number below.

The Swan, 1 Lewes Road, Forest Row RH18 5ER

Contact Pippa at Ballard & Shortall in Forest Row: 01342 822120

East Grinstead Museum is in the heart of the historic High Street and showcases the development of East Grinstead from its origins to the modern day. It includes displays on many subjects from pottery and iron working to shops and other activities in the town.

Additionally, we tell the story of the pioneering plastic surgeon, Archibald McIndoe and the Guinea Pig Club formed by the badly burned aircrew he treated during the Second World War. Our friendly stewards are happy to answer your questions. So why not come and visit us to enjoy our town’s past? www.eastgrinsteadmuseum.org.uk Cantelupe Rd, East Grinstead RH19 3BJ 01342 302233

WALK Ashurst to Eridge

As the season turns and we enter autumn we asked Robert Veitch for something a little different, so he took our Editor, Adele Trathan, for a wonderful walk encapsulating rivers, railways and rocks

Leave Ashurst Station in Kent via platform two, through the car park then down Station Road to the junction with Ashurst Hill. Cross over to the pavement then walk downhill for 50m before crossing back, towards the fingerpost.

The narrow path leads back under the railway, then to a footbridge across the River Medway and from Kent into Sussex. On the far side of the footbridge is a gate.

Once through it, bear right to enjoy the brief distraction of the glorious weir pool below the footbridge.

But our walk bears left, along the left side of the field, snaking it’s way to the southern end and through an open gate. Keep left in the next field, and follow the periphery again, alongside the ditch lined with willow

trees to another open gateway.

Once through it, turn left, and continue between the stock proof fence and hedge as the path arcs around to the right, to a secluded footbridge on the left at the far end. Once across the footbridge, the path eases to the right. Ignore the path on the left and continue through the avenue of trees to the driveway.

Turn left and up the concrete track, which evolves into a sleeper walkway. At the junction, bear right and continue in the same general direction, past Tim Calcutt’s

A footbridge across the River Medway and from Kent into Sussex

remarkable arboreal bench at Lyewood Common, which is the highest point of the day at 85m (279 feet). “What a wonderful creation,” noted Adele as we paused. Keep walking to the pond and junction with Beech Green Lane.

Bear left and downhill, walking on the right towards the traffic. At the bottom of the hill, by the telegraph pole, pass through the metal gate on the left, and into the field.

Keep left, along the edge of the field, past a redundant stile to the point where the River Medway caresses the edge of the path. Adele noticed ripe hawthorn berries here, indicative of the season turning, and became enthralled by a community of long tailed tits for a few minutes.

Tim Calcutt’s bench at Lyewood Common

The route continues in the same general direction, following the brown line in the grass towards a footbridge at the far end of the field. Another footbridge lies among the trees another 30m further on, and once through the gate on the far side of this footbridge, continue along the left periphery of the adjacent field to the next footbridge, cloaked in Himalayan balsam. Continue along the left side of the next field as far as the footbridge on the left.

Here, veer right, diagonally towards the telegraph pole, concrete bridge and final crossing of the River Medway. Across the adjacent meadow, follow the power lines to another concrete bridge over the Mottsmill Stream.

Continue past the concrete block, then aim towards the farmhouse and follow the power lines to the metal gate, with a stepped gate inserted within it, then take the track to the junction with Withyham Road.

Turn right towards the chevron, and walk with great care along the verge and around the corner for 100m, before crossing over

to the blue sign for Groombridge and Eridge, to enter the Forest Way.

Walk through the wooded highway, then along the edge of the field with wide-open views, to the junction with Hendal Hill.

Cross over with care and continue along the Forest Way, through a chicane beneath the railway, to the junction with Corseley Road.

Turn left, and walk uphill, the only real climb of the day, easing around to the right at the top and walking as far as Groombridge St Thomas C.E. Primary School.

Take the footpath to the right of the school, through the kissing gate, down the steps, across the footbridge over the Spa Valley Railway, then up the other side and past the redundant kissing gate. Follow the path to the next gate, and then a gate that immediately precedes the junction with the drive.

Turn right and follow the drive downhill to the bottom of the car park. Turn left here, connect to the track, then turn right and follow the track into the meadow, over the small footbridge and as far as the kissing gate by the Harrison’s Rocks sign.

Once through the kissing gate, follow the path to the right, past sandstone

Adele noticed ripe hawthorn berries and became enthralled by a community of long tailed tits

It’s by a footbridge but will you spot it?

Ashurst weir pool

The Forest Way at Groombridge

Adele caught between a rock and a hard place

Harrison’s Rocks

outcrops, beech trees with gnarled roots welded to the rock, and climbers testing their skills. 150m beyond the totemic pine, by the Copper beech, pass through the wooden 5-bar gate and rejoin the main path.

Turn left and walk gently downhill, around a wooden 5-bar gate, to the tarmac. Turn right and continue to the level crossing, crossing with care, when appropriate.

Once over the concrete bridge and Eridge Stream, turn left onto Forge Road and enjoy the solitude of the quiet lane for almost a mile, to the junction with the old A26, Groombridge Lane. Turn left and after a few steps Eridge Station reappears.

Time to head home? Maybe there’s time for quick one in the adjacent pub as Adele and I did. Happy rambling. l

Robert has tested the route personally, making sure it is suitable for walking. However, even he cannot guarantee the effects of the weather, or roadworks, or any other factors outside of his control. If you would like to send your feedback about a local walk, please email editorial@sussexliving.com

ok, but walking shoes or boots might be better

Top Tip: We parked at Eridge Station and took the train to Ashurst Elevation Gain: 117m (387 feet)

Calorie Burn: Approximately 720 kcal Map: O/S Explorer 135 Parking: Pay parking is available at Eridge and Ashurst stations www.apcoa.com Trains: See southernrailway.com

FIND AND

FIND AND REPAIR A LEAK

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Breaking the rules

With striking colours and vibrant accessories Sara Sivewright has created a welcoming home that is unique with a strong personality

SITTING ROOM

Sara decided not to reinstall a fireplace and instead used the space to make a cupboard. The pieces of fairground ephemera came from a fairground in Lincolnshire

The Francesca Collection

Left and right hand corner units available

Kick back and relax in our best-selling Francesca collection which offers deep relaxed seating. Modular units are available to design your own sized sofa by choosing from the selection of corner sofas, sofas, sofa beds, chairs and footstools. Available in a large variety of quality luxurious fabrics.

Sofa bed options

Martell’s

The Whitehall, London Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1AP

Tel: 01342 321303

Email: furnitureshop@martells.co.uk www.martells.co.uk

or scatter back

LOCATION: Brighton, East Sussex

THE

Mark Thompson and Sara Sivewright with daughter Polly

THE

Two-up, two -down,

When Sara Sivewright won a place at Brighton Poly to study Fine Art many years ago, her Dad suggested buying a house for her to live in instead of paying for student digs. He travelled down from Cheshire with just one day to look at properties and settled on a tiny two-up, two-down in a Brighton back street built in the early 1900s for railway workers.

“It was repulsive,” recalled Sara. “It had been lived in by two blokes, a carpenter and an electrician, and between them they had tried to modernise it and made an absolute mess of it. There was Seventies-style hessian wallpaper and cream carpets with burn marks and upstairs there was just a mattress on the floor and a bike!” However, Sara wasn’t put off and besides it was cheap, so she moved in and to help with

costs rented rooms to friends. A few years down the line she and her partner Mark Thompson, a teacher bought the property from her Dad and now live there with their daughter Polly.

Sara has always had a passion for bright pastels and readily admits she’s not afraid to use colour, so the house has always been decorated in a lively fashion. “I’ve never had a lot of money to do much with it, but I repaint every few years,’ she said. Inspiration for its latest incarnation came from the blues and yellows in a set of nautical charts that belonged to her Dad, who built canal boats. Sara used them to great effect as wallpaper in the dining room at the front of the house. “I’ve always loved maps, they are fascinating things, there are positions and plots on some of the charts and even the course of a race

Inspiration for its latest incarnation came from the blues and yellows in a set of nautical charts that belonged to her Dad

pencilled on one of them,” she said. “It is a really ‘papery’ room and feels like a library with all our books.”

She and Mark acquired lots of their furniture like the dining table and various chairs from boot fairs, charity shops and flea markets. An Art Deco chair was bought from a shop in Bath that sells furniture using ‘up cycled’ fabrics. Their biggest bargain is probably the church pew, which they found abandoned in the street. “I think it was thrown out from a local pub,” recalled Sara. “We nearly had a fight with someone who had also taken a fancy to it.” But it’s said possession is nine-tenths of the law and Sara and Mark won. However, once they had carried their booty home it did not fit into their tiny hallway and Mark had

KITCHEN

Tins, utensils and enamelware and paintings from the Far East decorate the space, making a bold arty statement

STAIRCASE Sara was inspired to add the seashells decoration to the stair risers after a visit to an artist’s house during Artists Open Houses in Brighton and Hove

I love the colour; it’s an in-between shade that brings sunshine in, they are all seaside colours in our house

Diane Hutt Art Gallery

to take a saw to it before they could get it into the dining room.

In the kitchen the old back door was blocked up to make more space for worktops. The ceiling was removed to expose the rafters and roof to make the space feel more open. The modern windows were replaced with period lookalikes glazed with etched glass. Sara planned the layout for the units and asked a friend to build them and then painted the room in a gentle blue because she likes its calming effect. “I always do the whole room including the ceiling the same colour and I try to keep the floors a similar tone too because I think it helps make a small room look bigger,” she added.

Their biggest bargain is probably the church pew, which they found abandoned in the street

As a teen, Sara loved visiting Chinatown in Manchester and has always been drawn to the vivid colours of Chinese and Far-Eastern artefacts, which she has used to spectacular effect in the house. Sara is the manager for Blackout, a popular shop in Brighton, well known for selling unusual items of folk-art and kitsch. Every year, she and Mark take off for a month or so to journey through Africa, South America or the Far East. On their travels they buy rugs, textiles, jewellery and ethnic ephemera both for themselves and the shop. They set out with just rucksacks and make sure to buy a few valises, tin trunks and large bags in which to transport it all home. “Polly’s baggage allowance comes in handy too,” Sara said with a smile.

When the backdoor in the kitchen was blocked up a new doorway to the backyard was made in the sitting room with a pair of French doors that Sara bought for £10 from a workman working on a nearby property refurb. With a nod

DINING ROOM

Sara has always had a passion for bright pastels and readily admits she’s not afraid to use colour

A salvaged wash handbasin replaced an ugly plastic Seventies style sink. Sara loves to collect beads and religious ephemera and makes them into necklaces and bracelets

Sara refers to the dining room as The Map Room. The table came from a car boot sale and the church pew was found in the street

to the colours of the nautical charts she painted the whole room in a soft yellow. “I love the colour; it’s an in-between shade that brings sunshine in, they are all seaside colours in our house,” she explained. To finish off she hand painted stripes on the walls using a marker pen.

Upstairs Sara’s penchant for statement wallpaper continues with a palm fringed beach scene in the master bedroom. “We went to someone’s house for dinner and they had one. I said I really wanted one and the next day they took me to a hardware shop and I bought a poster for just four pounds,” she recalled. The couple put up tongue and groove, wooden shutters and built a cupboard across one wall and again painted the entire room in the same blue as the kitchen. “I don’t like curtains – they are fussy. I prefer shutters as they block out the light properly,” Sara added.

Sara’s penchant

statement wallpaper continues with a palm fringed beach scene in

She bought a Chinese elm marriage cabinet for the bedroom from a shop in Lewes. “It had been given a shabby chic treatment in grey which didn’t work for me, so I painted it my favourite sunshine yellow. The colours behave in a totally different way in this room because it gets the later afternoon light.”

Sara and Mark love living in this part of Brighton. The street is quiet and a stone’s throw from some lovely shops and delis. There is only one thing that Sara would really like to do with the house. “I would love to put double sash windows back in,” she said. “But it’s going to cost a good few thousand to do. I think I will have to hope for a windfall.” l

Photography: Bruce Hemming Copy writer: Sally Maton

POLLY’S BEDROOM

Polly’s bedroom is decorated with Indian masks and African dolls. In the toy cupboard there are vintage books which Polly loves to read

Plant SOS!

If the recent drought reduced your garden to a dustbowl full of dead twigs, don’t panic, says Flo Whitaker. All is (probably) not lost…

In heatwave conditions, it’s often potted plants that suffer most.

If you’ve ever tried re-wetting a pot of dry soil, you’ll know how difficult it is – the water gushes through in seconds without touching the soil. Unlikely as it seems, a mild detergent will help. A few drops of washing-up liquid stirred into a can of water reduces the water’s surface tension, helping it cling to soil particles (a tiny quantity of detergent won’t harm plants).

If the pot is small, plunge it into a bucket of water. You’ll notice air bubbles escaping from the compost. Weigh the pot down with a brick, keeping it fully submerged until the bubbling stops. This method is particularly useful for unglazed ceramics, as bonedry terracotta sucks moisture from compost, adding additional stress to roots.

Stand larger pots overnight in deep, water-filled containers, such as washingup bowls. Gently scrape the

soil surface the following day and check the moisture has migrated fully through the soil. If all else fails, the only solution may be to carefully excavate the plant, soak the rootball until wringing wet, then repot. This is undoubtedly a faff, and I wouldn’t bother doing it with temporary bedding plants, but if you have a particularly cherished specimen or an expensive shrub, it’s worth making the effort.

Drought-stressed shrubs often employ an alarming survival technique of dropping their leaves, then entering

a dormancy period. How to tell if the plant is merely ‘hibernating’, or has died?

Select a stem and scrape away a small area of bark. If the tissue underneath is moist, with a white/cream or green hue, it’s alive. If brown-ish, dull and dry, it’s probably beyond help. Conifers are particularly susceptible to drought conditions and often succumb. However, some plants will regenerate from apparently ‘dead’ wood. In particular, deciduous shrubs can remain dormant for months, so don’t

Conifers are particularly susceptible to drought conditions

start radically chopping back just yet. Wait until next April/May for signs of life – you could be pleasantly surprised.

Plants that peak in autumn, (dahlias, asters, chrysanthemums, etc.) may have run out of steam early, as they require moist soil throughout summer to power their spectacular late-season displays. Leave well alone – they will recover and start into growth next year.

Grass is our planet’s most robust plant and a parched lawn will green up within days of rainfall. Before the weather turns frosty, rake out dead grass and moss, which will help prevent fungal infections taking hold. Due to our warming climate, lawns often grow during winter, (grass only requires a temperature of 6°C to trigger active growth.) Should you need to mow during winter, set mower blades to the highest level, remove clippings and don’t expect a perfect cut – a light tidyup is all that’s required. l

INDOOR Gardening

This winter, garden and nature enthusiasts can bring the outdoors inside with a terrarium. Learn how to make your own with Sara Whatley, and add a delightful addition to your home

Hold a forest in your hands. Create your own desert or be king of the jungle. How is this alchemy possible? How do you capture nature, tame her and beautifully encase her? You look to the world of terrariums.

There is something absolutely magical about these

miniature glasshouses. They are transportive, mesmeric and very beautiful, encasing a world in glass that exists in its own sweet eco system.

At their very best terrariums can play with the very fabric of reality; meditate on one long enough and you might find yourself shrunk down and roaming around towering rock formations and lush ferns.

Then on the turn of a penny you may be super sized and peering in on a miniature pine forest – what tiny animals lurk in the trees, what wind whips through their leaves, what birds sing in their boughs?

Like nature herself, every terrarium is a unique creation. As the creator you guide the design, chose the planting scheme and the terrain and create the world you want to see displayed.

Then display it you must. In recent years the popularity of terrariums has enjoyed a resurgence and they are now really trendy in the interior design world. Let your large terrarium take centre stage in a room or fill the space with numerous

How To

Making your own terrarium is a fun exercise in choice.

Chose your container size (if it’s big enough to get your hand in it’s easier to make and maintain, otherwise you will need to use tools).

Choose the shape and style, choose the plants to go inside, choose a theme, and finally choose individual extras such as coloured stones, figures and models to make your terrarium personal.

Once you have made your choice and gathered all the bits you need together, it’s actually quite straightforward to put a terrarium together. There are four main elements: gravel, moss, soil and plants.

1

Start with a two-inch base layer of small stones or pebbles for drainage, then a quarter or half inch layer of activated charcoal (this keeps water fresh and helps prevent bacteria growing).

2

On top of this you can put sheet moss, which helps prevent the compost falling through the stones. It also creates more visual interest in the layers and looks lovely.

3

Next pop in at least a two-inch layer of sterile potting soil (without added fertiliser) and shape the soil in dips and mounds to create interest for the planting.

4

Lastly, add the plants. Decide on the placement before planting, and make sure any roots are not bound – tease and trim if needed. Gently plant each plant then add any extra individual touches such as rocks, figurines or shells. Gently water plants until just damp, not wet, and wipe the glass clean from any stray mud.

Terrariums thrive in filtered light, not direct sunlight which will bake the plants. Check every few weeks if the soil is dry and gently water as needed. If you have a closed terrarium make sure you take the top off at least once a month to clear the condensation and increase airflow.

OPEN OR CLOSED?

Terrariums can either be open or closed. Both have

their advantages and disadvantages; it comes down to a personal choice and what you prefer. A closed terrarium creates it’s own microclimate, and plants best suited to this are heat and moisture loving plants such as ferns, mosses and orchids. Plants in a closed terrarium grow more slowly and also require less watering, but condensation and excess water may build up. Regularly take the lid off and make the drainage layers a little deeper to counteract this.

Open terrariums give plants constant access to fresh air and it is easy to water, prune and change design. Plants will grow a little faster and may require more frequent pruning. Plants that thrive in open terrariums and dry conditions are succulents, cacti and air plants.

They add a sophisticated element of natural beauty to a room, as well as an air of mystique and magic too

Never use fertiliser in your terrarium. The natural decay of the potting mix provides plenty of nutrients for the plants

INSTALLED IN 1 DAY

“What a difference a day makes as the saying goes, and yes, that’s all it took to install.”

Mr & Mrs Barber, Wells

WARMER IN WINTER

“There is no doubt that the conservatory is much warmer than previously, and no, the room is not darker either!”

David Birch, Chichester

USABLE ALL YEAR ROUND

“The conservatory is now used throughout all seasons of the year and is far more comfortable to sit in whatever the weather outside.”

Mr & Mrs Gibson, Portishead

MOULD & CONDENSATION

“This is the best thing we have done in this house. Used to run with condensation and now zero.”

Karen Thomas, Chippenham

COOLER IN SUMMER

“You could have fried an egg on the table in there in the summer, I now look upon the conservatory as a new room. It is quiet, restful and cosy.”

Carol Doyle, Surrey

REDUCES ENERGY BILLS

“I’ve already turned the underfloor heating down. Lovely job guys, thank you!”

Anne Bird, Bristol

QUIETER IN BAD WEATHER

“For the first time in 10 years we do not have to close the door to the conservatory when it rains, as the noise is minimal and before I found it difficult to hear the TV over the loudness of the rain on the old roof.”

Mr & Mrs Bailey-Webb, Warsash

Terms and Conditions apply. Green Space UK, Unit 8 BH24 1PD, Registered No. 8542786, as shown on FCA authorisation, trading as Green Space UK, is a credit broker and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Subsidies are limited by area and not guaranteed. Putting off your enquiry could reduce the potential subsidy available to you.

smaller designs, each a little world of it’s own for the viewer to marvel at.

As the glass casing is available in an unlimited range of size and design, terraria can complement any space and any décor scheme. They add a sophisticated element of natural beauty to a room, as well as an air of mystique and magic too.

Make sure plants stay healthy and don’t grow too big or touch the sides of the glass by trimming old, damaged or excess leaves

Discovered in Victorian London by amateur naturalist Dr Nathanial Bagshaw Ward in 1829, terrariums were originally known as Wardian cases and were more like mini glasshouses made of wood and glass. He was raising moth pupa in a sealed glass jar and noticed how well the ferns also thrived in the jar, something

he had so far been unable to successfully grow outside, given the appalling air quality in industrial London at the time.

The Wardian cases became very popular among scientists, allowing

them to observe plants in their natural habitats and successfully transport plants across the globe. Gradually their popularity grew to keen gardeners and further as well.

Over time the Wardian case evolved into what we

now know as the terrarium: a fully or partially enclosed glass case, which allows heat and light to enter and confine moisture. They are available in all shapes and sizes, and used for aesthetic rather than scientific reasons nowadays. l

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Want to delve a little deeper into wedding history? Sara Whatley takes a look at the meaning behind some of the wedding traditions we still use today

It might feel like there are a million things to tick off when planning a wedding, and so often the key to getting it all done is quick and decisive decision making. But sometimes it’s nice to slow down and reflect on where some of the wedding traditions came from which will invariably be included in most wedding days.

Here we look at the history and meaning behind five common wedding traditions.

WEDDING BREAKFAST

The term ‘wedding breakfast’ is a little misleading as usually, this meal is held mid afternoon, so why isn’t it called a wedding lunch? Apparently this dates back to the 17th century when weddings were held during the Eucharistic Mass. The bride, groom

and all the wedding party would have been fasting before mass and so by the time they sat down to their celebratory meal this would be the first time they broke their fast together – hence breakfast.

WEDDING VEIL

The bride’s wedding veil is a stunning accompaniment to her dress, but what is the history of this special cloth?

When superstitions played a more prominent role in society, all the bridesmaids would dress the same as the bride to confuse evil spirits who wished to thwart her happiness. The veil was used as an extra protection, a disguise for the bride. By covering her face and all the faces of the bridesmaids no spirit would be able to recognise or harm her.

In Roman times the bride was covered in a red cloth known as a ‘flammium’ to represent flames

Another theory along the same lines of warding off evil spirits suggests that in Roman times the bride was covered in a red cloth known as a ‘flammium’ to represent flames. This was meant to make the bride look like she was on fire to scare away any lurking evil spirits.

It is also thought that in the days of

common arranged marriages the bridal veil helped to hide the bride from her betrothed until the deal was done.

WEDDING VOWS

The wedding vows we say today are surprisingly close to the original words laid out by Thomas Cranmer, the first Protestant archbishop of Canterbury. He wrote the Book of Common Prayer in 1549 where most of the words we know – to have and to hold, to love and respect, for better for worse, for richer

for poorer – are written. Although it is thought that these words actually date back to the Sarum Rite in Mediaeval England.

At this time the whole of Christianity in Western Europe was Roman Catholic and not very accessible to the masses, so regions started to develop their own traditions. The worship, or ‘Use’ that Salisbury Cathedral – or Sarum –developed was highly influential on the rest of England and included some of the original wedding vows.

Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning

Your wedding dress is very precious to you, and deserves to be cleaned and heirloomed with care. Sarah will care for your dress, discussing the best cleaning techniques with you. They will also care for the Groom, Mother of the Bride and Bridesmaids’ garments. You can choose from boxes by The Empty Box Co, or our own Treasures Box, should you wish to preserve your dress for the future.

A true family business, now in it’s fifth generation, Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning are experts in the dry cleaning of vintage clothing and vintage wedding dresses. Our expert staff have the knowledge to handle and care for delicate fabrics and garments.

1 College Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 1QN

Tel: 01444 416644

sarahlaceydrycleaning@gmail.com

www.sarahlacey-drycleaning.co.uk

WEDDING FLOWERS

Flowers are all important in weddings today. They set the tone and often the colour scheme too; from huge extravagant displays of white lilies and roses to sweet little hand-tied posies of cottage garden flowers, whatever wedding theme you choose can be reflected in your flowers.

The tradition for flowers at weddings started many years ago with the Romans, and before this early Egyptians were using plant material in their ceremonies. The Romans believed in the symbology of flowers and used them to represent new beginnings, fidelity and fertility.

Over time different flowers and plants fell into and out of fashion. The Victorians loved the language of flowers (floriography) and orange

blossom was a popular choice as it was linked to chastity. When Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840 she wore a headdress made of real orange blossom and carried myrtle in her bouquet, which is associated with beauty, passion, fidelity, and immortal love. A myrtle sprig has been included in every royal bouquet since the 1850s.

In the days before the printing press wedding invitation was by way of the Town Crier!

WEDDING INVITATIONS

Save the dates and wedding invites are part and parcel of the wedding package nowadays, but in the days before the printing press wedding invitation was by way of the Town Crier! Anyone who heard the announcement was welcome to attend. That must have been tricky to cater for!

In the Middle Ages nobility would commission monks to beautifully scribe

them wedding notices in calligraphy, and then when the printing press came to be it still printed poorly so newspaper notices for weddings were favoured.

Over time as the printing press improved it became more accessible and usable, and formal wedding invitations became the norm. This tradition has carried on to today, and they can be as embellished or as simple as the couple desires. l

Your wedding should be the most memorable day of your life and Buckhurst Park is designed to make it unforgettable.

Buckhurst Park is the beautiful, ancestral, muchloved home of Earl De La Warr and his family. With its spectacular views, Lutyens designed gardens and lakes, Buckhurst’s grounds provide a stunning setting as well as a choice of locations for your marquee.

For all your wedding arrangements we have a preferred suppliers list as well as accommodation options at The Dorset Arms. Our wedding Co-Ordinaror is on hand to provide you with a personal and friendly service and will assist you every step of the way ensuring your wedding runs smoothly and happily.

Gelato Gemelli’s Ice Cream Tricycle

Fabulous artisan ice creams and sorbets handmade in Sussex served from a charming tricycle.

www.gelatogemelli.co.uk janecapaldi@aol.com 01273 495628

Arabella Floral

Arabella Floral is a weddings and events florist covering Sussex, Kent and Surrey. We love using seasonal flowers and foliage to create beautiful, natural and wild designs.

www.arabellafloral.com contact@arabellafloral.com 07870 271212

Fiona Hosford Harpist

An experienced, Professional Harpist for over 15 years, Fiona is renowned for her Harp expertise and her friendliness and advice puts the client at ease. All the beautiful, romantic music you will ever need!

www.Harpist.uk.com Facebook @EventHarpist Tel: 01323 442935 / 07866 698566

Coles

Menswear & Wedding Hire Specialists

Formal suit hire for men and boys - classic and contemporary collections. Friendly, professional staff that will help you choose from an extensive range of styles and colours with accessories that will help complete your unique look.

www.coles-menswear.co.uk 132 High Street, Uckfield TN22 1RA 01825 762156

Hassock Sports Centre

Here at Hassocks sports centre we can help you get Wedding ready. Whether it be studio classes, personal training or a personalised gym programme… we can help you look and feel your best.

www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/ centres/hassocks-sports-centre/ Hassocksenquiries @freedom-leisure.co.uk 01273 841348

Ashdown Events

Ashdown Events provides a full event decoration and floristry service for weddings, parties and corporate events including bridal and reception flowers, chair covers, backdrops and draping.

Unit 2, Moonhill Farm, Burgess Hill Road, Ansty RH17 5AH

www.ashdownevents.co.uk

01444 616090 sales@ashdownevents.co.uk

Chair Cover Chic

High quality room decor for your affordable dream wedding, private party or corporate event. Chair covers and all styles of sashes, draping, lighting, backdrops, flower wall, blossom and topiary trees.

www.chaircoverchic.co.uk 89 Hammerwood Road, Ashurstwood RH19 3RX 01342 824180 enquiries@chaircoverchic.co.uk

Weddings at Horsted Place Hotel

Imagine welcoming your family and friends to your very own country house on your wedding day, say ‘I do’ at Horsted Place Hotel.

www.horstedplace.co.uk Sharron Winter – events@horstedplace.co.uk 01825 750581

Flower House and Home

We create romantic, rustic florals and statement installations for all occasions in and around Sussex. Our wedding flowers are designed bespoke to your requirements.

www.flowerhouseandhome.co.uk info@flowerhouseandhome.co.uk Instagram: flowerhouseandhome 01435 874762

Sew Stitch

Clean

We specialise in re-design, alterations and tailoring for wedding and bridal dresses, suits for men as well as other garments. We are also able to design clothing to order.

www.sewstitchnclean.co.uk

3 Chelsea Arcade, 8-14

The Broadway, Haywards Heath RH16 3AP 01444 459106 / 07717 841009 sewstitchnclean@gmail.com

KM Floral Designs

Whether it’s a big formal wedding or an intimate affair, we can create beautiful bespoke wedding flowers for your special day. Contact us to discuss your ideas or to book a free consultation.

www.kmfloraldesigns.co.uk kim@kmfloraldesigns.co.uk 01403 586027

Lily Jacobs Bridal Boutique

Stocking a wide range of Bridal gowns and accessories from some of the top designers such as Allure Romance, Romantica of Devon, Sophia Tolli, White One by Pronovias, Kenneth Winston and White Rose along with a beautiful selection for the curvier brides. We cannot wait to welcome you and be part of your exciting bridal journey.

www.lilyjacobs.co.uk 73 High Street, East Grinstead RH19 3DD 07763 302104

Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning

Expert care for your wedding dress. Sarah believes every wedding dress is unique, that’s why her personalised cleaning and boxing service is so popular with brides.

www.sarahlacey-drycleaning.co.uk

1 College Road, Haywards Heath RH16 1QN 01444 416644

Weddings at Dale Hill

Located in the beautiful East Sussex countryside with stunning views of the Sussex Downs. We are the perfect venue for your celebrations.

www.Dalehill.co.uk weddings@dalehill.co.uk 01580 200112

CAKE...

Classic Vs modern, what sort of wedding cake will you chose? Sara Whatley looks at some options to tempt your tastebuds

No wedding is complete without a beautiful centrepiece wedding cake. Now the question is, do you go traditional or alternative? Here are some ideas to help you decide.

A traditional wedding cake typically looks like a tiered rich fruitcake covered in marzipan and icing. Some couples now opt for some layers made of different flavoured sponge cake with just the top layer made of fruitcake. Fruitcake keeps well and some people follow the tradition of keeping the top tier for their first anniversary, or for their first baby’s christening cake (assuming baby comes along fairly quickly!).

Wedding cakes traditionally come in three tiers so the bottom tier can be shared with the wedding party, the middle tier can be enjoyed afterwards, and the top tier saved. No size fits all however, so add or take away tiers to suit your wishes.

Classic icing decoration often consists of intricately piped designs of flowers or fruit, fine garlands and latticework covering

the cake. Satin and lace ribbons are sometimes wrapped around classic cakes as well. For those stepping away from tradition, naked cakes are popular. Here, the filling can be seen and just a scraping of icing or no icing at all on the exterior of the cake. Fresh fruit and flowers often adorn naked cakes. Cup cakes are a different way to enjoy

Cup cakes are a different way to enjoy cake and look very pretty when all stacked up together in a tower

cake and look very pretty when stacked together in a tower. This is an easy way of serving cake as no cutting is required. However, if the bride and groom still want to do the traditional first cut, then just a single tier cake surrounded by cup cakes is a good option. Another take on individual cakes is cake lollies! Have fun with the decoration – how about half the cakes as brides and half as grooms – and make these cakes fun for everyone to enjoy.

Also you shouldn’t feel constrained by tradition. There are so many fun alternatives to wedding cakes to enjoy such as a delicious doughnut tower, or how about a colourful stack of macaroons?

Cheese lovers could opt for a cheese cake, made from wheels of various cheeses. Decorate with fresh figs and serve with baskets of crackers on the tables.

How about a giant crepe stack? Thinly fill between each crepe and stack big, medium and small together to make tiers.

There are so many fun alternatives to wedding cakes to enjoy

A profiterole tower looks very impressive as a wedding centrepiece, freshly whipped cream peeking out from the fluffy pastry bombs, and drizzled with chocolate. Your guests will just keep coming back for more.

With so many cake options to choose from there really is something out there for every happy couple. You really can have your cake and eat it! l

THE FOREST BRASSERIE Step inside

Come experience the Forest Brasserie and feel at one with the Ashdown Forest, with a tantalizing menu and stunning décor inspired by our local surroundings.

This relaxed dining experience offers a modern yet classic setting for friends and family alike and boasts stunning views of the grounds and forest beyond. The menu has been carefully selected with locally sourced options, which supports local businesses and helps the environment.

The Forest Brasserie is located in the Country Club at Ashdown Park Hotel, and is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Please visit www.ashdownpark.com/forest-brasserie for the full menu and to make a booking, or call 01342 824988.

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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

We o er a comprehensive range of first charge mortgages from across the market that are made available to mortgage intermediaries for which we are paid a procuration fee by the lender.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

for a wedding

The average cost of a UK wedding rose to £17,300 in 2021, with many couples spending more than they’d planned. So, to help you plan for your big day, Lisa de Silva has put together a guide to making an effective wedding budget

Congratulations, you’re getting married. It’s an exciting time as you plan your once-in-a-lifetime wedding day. Yet in all the excitement, it’s important to consider your priorities, the many costs involved and how you plan to save for them.

WHAT TYPE OF WEDDING DO YOU WANT?

The type of wedding you choose will have a huge impact on the overall cost of the big day. Sit down with your partner and be honest about what you both want, whether that’s a big grand hotel wedding, a rural barn, urban chic, casual and rustic or a destination wedding abroad.

COSTS TO CONSIDER

There is an endless list of costs associated with getting married, but the bulk of your money will usually be spent on the venue hire, catering, and photographer. Here’s a summary of costs to consider:

• Number of guests

• Venue hire

• Catering – food and drink throughout the day

• Photographer

• Ceremony and rings

• Outfits – bridal gown, bridesmaid’s dresses, groom and usher attire

• Accessories

• Hair and make-up

• Band/DJ

• Wedding cake

• Flowers

• Decorations

• Stationery

• Transport

• Hotel accommodation/honeymoon

• Thank you gifts

PRIORITISE AND DECIDE WHERE YOU CAN MAKE SAVINGS

Once you’ve got a list of all the elements involved in your dream wedding, think about your priorities. This will help you to highlight where any savings can be made. If you’ve set your heart on a barn wedding, would you consider marrying off-peak to save money? Hiring a barn on a Saturday in the height of summer is likely to cost between £10-11,000. If you’re happy to marry in January or February and/or on a weekday, the price drops to around £3-4,000.

Other potential savings could include renting all the wedding outfits or buying preloved garments, which is also kinder to the environment. Or hiring a venue

that allows you to bring your own alcohol, putting a limit on the bar tab or only serving beer and wine. Could you or a relative bake the wedding cake? Do also consider using dummy cake tiers with just a couple of edible tiers to cut costs.

Could you make your own wedding stationery? Or perhaps buy your flowers wholesale and make your own bouquets, buttonholes, and decorations? Can you

By deciding what is important to you both, you should be able to identify where you can make savings

make your own table decorations and thank you gifts? Finally, and possibly the most difficult decision involves how many people to invite. Feeding and

accommodating 100 guests is obviously far more expensive than 50 guests.

By deciding what is important to you both, you should be able to identify where you can make savings.

SAVING FOR THE BIG DAY

Now you have defined what you want for the big day, do your research and shop around for prices. Then consider how much financial help your family may be able to provide and what you can afford to comfortably save each month.

If you need to save £12,000 and can afford to save £500 a month, that will take two years. If this isn’t possible, consider downsizing the wedding or delaying it, to give you more time to save and always have a 10-15% contingency in your budget for any unforeseen costs. Once you’ve got a savings plan decide whether having easy access to the money or a higher interest rate is more important. This will help you to decide what sort of savings account to use.

It is also worth getting a 0% credit card for making payments, as paying with a credit card offers protection if suppliers go out of business. Alternatively, you might want to consider a wedding insurance policy to protect you against cancellations and the financial failure of any suppliers. l

Why is a will important?

Making a will means you can be sure that your property will be properly taken care of when you die. The executors and trustees will be chosen by you.

If you don’t prepare a will – if you leave it to chance – this may result in unsuitable people dealing with your estate after your death.

Do you want to make sure your children and dependants are provided for – or to appoint legal guardians for your children?

What about if you are an unmarried couple? We are able advise you so that you are able to make provision for your partner on your death.

Do you want advice on inheritance tax or making a gift to charity? Again, we can help.

You may want to set up a trust in your will (e.g for a disabled beneficiary). We are able to advise on all aspects of trusts and setting up a trust in your will.

Don’t leave it to chance. Speak to a professional while you can.

If you would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact Aileen Francis at Percy Walker. Aileen is a solicitor and specialist in this area of law and a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners.

Percy

T:

• Wills

• Probate

This

LIFE IS FULL OF IMPORTANT CHOICES…. AND THE SAME IS TRUE OF YOUR FINANCES

Have you considered:

• how soon you will be able to retire, and if your plans will your fund your lifestyle?

• other options, if you are disappointed with the interest rates on your savings?

Here at NFU Mutual, we believe that everyone can benefit from taking financial advice and making a financial plan. That’s why we aim to make it easy to understand and accessible for everyone.

For a real conversation about your plans, call the team at Chichester & Horsham Agency on 01273 031898 or email ChichesterandHorsham@nfumutual.co.uk

Tisshaws is a specialist family practice offering advice on children and financial matters.

NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. When you get in touch, we’ll explain the advice services offered and the charges. Financial Advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited.

01444 472700

01444 472700

info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk tisshawssolicitors.co.uk

info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk tisshawssolicitors.co.uk

Legal expertise within a Culture of Care

Legal expertise within a Culture of Care

Tisshaws is a specialist family law practice offering advice on divorce, children and financial matters.

Tisshaws is a specialist family law practice offering advice on divorce, children and financial matters.

Fixed Fee Divorce

Fixed Fee Divorce

£450 + VAT & Court Fee

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Initial meeting £50 (incl. VAT) up to one hour – no obligation

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Ranked in the top 500 UK law firms by The Legal 500

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Limited T/A Tisshaws Solicitors.

Tisshaws Limited T/A Tisshaws Solicitors. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority SRA No.566801

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Chatan A Modi is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). And an introducer to NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited, a member of the NFU Mutual group of companies.

RICH & EARTHY

Let the autumn winter makeup and nail colour palettes wrap you in rich and earthy tones, with a little bit of sparkle too, says Sara Whatley

As the autumn wind blows and the leaves tumble down from the trees, it feels natural to reach for cosy cranberry coloured jumpers and warm lace up boots. Now is the time to slip into some

new makeup trends and colours too; swap neon summer brights for a darker, earthier winter palette.

All summer long the natural no makeup look has been prevalent across the board, and as we move into the colder months skin has no notion of changing this trend. Keep skin looking dewy with sheer lightweight formulas and skin tints. Moisturise liberally to keep skin plump and well hydrated and use cream-based makeup in place of liquid or powder to create a clean and fresh finish.

In contrast to this natural youthful base look, one major trend is matte bold accent lips and lids. Think gothic bloody lips with just a slick of black eyeliner, or flip it the other way round and go for a bold teal eye shadow and a nude lip.

Metallic frosty finishes are all the rage, and you get bonus points for opting for the blue hues

Eyes are also enjoying a hit of shimmer and shine this season. Metallic frosty finishes are all the rage, and you get bonus points for opting for the blue hues.

Still sticking to the natural skin look, another take on this is to just accent your cheeks with some bold blush. Layer on cream blush under foundation to seamlessly blend the

colour and create a flush look, or try bringing the blush right from the outer apples of your cheeks to up under the eye. Try playing with burnt orange tones instead of your usual pinks to fit right in with the autumn colourscape.

It’s not only our makeup that appreciates a seasonal update; it’s our nails too. Reach for the classic autumn palette of nature inspired nail colours such as plummy dark purples, forest

greens, teal and deep navy, slate grey and mushroom or earthy neutrals. A timeless autumnal red manicure always fits the bill too; you may just want to think about opting for the darker end of the colour spectrum.

There is also some fun to be had with nails this season – with glitter and shine! Try layering a glitter varnish over the top of your bold colour, or go for a sheer shimmer to create a whole new mermaid colour of your own. l

FEELINGGut

Good gut health can make or break a person and is well worth investing in.

Sara Whatley finds out more about this amazing and complex bodily system

Once upon a time, it was believed that our gut and digestive system was relatively simple. Today it is understood that it is a hugely complex body system and is the subject of increasing research in the medical profession.

Studies have shown links between good gut health and our immune systems, mood, mental health, heart health, brain health and digestion, and maintaining a healthy gut can even help to prevent some illness and disease.

There are signs to look out for which indicate our guts are not performing at their peak: an upset stomach,

poor sleep (serotonin, the hormone which helps us sleep, is largely produced in the gut), sugar cravings and eating a high sugar diet, food intolerances, and illness such as skin irritation or autoimmune conditions caused by inflammation in the gut.

Thankfully there are simple ways to improve gut health and help contribute to a healthy gut microbiome (made up of trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes), such as eating a rainbow of fruits and

vegetables, eating slowly and mindfully, reducing stress and getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water and taking a prebiotic or probiotic supplement.

Eating fermented foods, which are high in probiotics is brilliant for our guts

Good gut health is vital for our immune systems –80% of our immune cells can be found in the gut. Eating

fermented foods, which are high in probiotics is brilliant for our guts, providing it with living bacteria to add to the good bacteria already present. And eating prebiotics provides our guts with food for the good bacteria to keep them going.

Despite the relatively new understanding of the significance of our guts on our overall health, age old phrases such as, ‘Follow your gut instinct’, ‘Listen to your gut’, ‘Gut feeling’, and ‘Gut reaction’, show us that the

TOP FERMENTED FOODS

Yoghurt • Sauerkraut

Miso • Kimchi

Kombucha • Kefir

Pickled vegetables

TOP PREBIOTIC FOODS

Bananas • Onions

Garlic

Ginger

Oats

Berries

Turmeric

importance of our guts has been recognised for a long time, not just on a physical level but on an emotional one as well. If something is bothering us it can manifest in a tummy ache, especially for children. If we eat something bad or overindulge, we can feel it uncomfortably in our gut. And conversely, if we eat well, stay hydrated and take an appropriate amount of exercise, our guts thank us by not being bloated, functioning well and feeling good.

It’s one of those funny things, the gut; if it is working properly and in good health we don’t really notice it, but when it is unhealthy it can have drastic consequences for our body and mind. Even if you change just one thing today to help improve your gut health, your tummy will be smiling at you. l

How to Choose A Dentist

Do you feel comfortable with the dentist?

1

This may be a gut-instinct but do you feel they are listening to you and giving you bespoke advice related to your mouth and habits. You only have one set of teeth so be careful who you entrust them to. Remember this should be a relationship for life; if you do not feel comfortable, find someone else.

Is the practice well established?

Choosing a Dentist can be confusing and a bit daunting, so having the right dentist can help calm any fears you have about an impending dental visit

Ask questions

5

The most important thing to remember is to ask questions! Make a list of questions to ask before your appointment as you may forget.

It is best if you can get referrals from as many sources as possible

2

Experience and continuity of care can be very valuable. Will the dentist or hygienist be there next time you have your check-up? It takes time to build a relationship on both sides. They will get to know your mouth, what materials work best in your mouth and how often to review you. Changing dentists regularly can mean you end up with more restorative work undertaken.

Do they have a dental hygienist?

3 Healthy gums are as important as healthy teeth. Does the hygienist clean your mouth thoroughly?

Do they guide you in what are the best oral hygiene aids for your mouth?

Training and further education

4 Look for award winning practices and those committed to continuing education.

6 Ask some of your relatives, colleagues or friends if they can recommend reliable dentists.

Call Oakmead Dental on 01342 325363 and see how we at Oakmead in East Grinstead are changing Dentistry.

“I wanted to finally express my appreciation for everything the staff at Oakmead have done for me over the past 20 years. Yes, I was surprised it had been that long”

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Join us at St Peter & St James Hospice for Elf Fun this Christmas!

This Winter we are inviting local nurseries, schools, youth clubs and businesses to support St Peter & St James Hospice whilst having their very own festive fun.

Elf Fun is a fantastic opportunity for everyone in our community to get into the Christmas spirit whilst supporting your local hospice, at the same time!

We have lots of inspiring ideas; you could hold a bake sale, do a sponsored run or Christmas Jumper Day. The ideas are endless and the choice is yours!

Everyone that registers to take part in Elf Fun will receive:

• An information pack, including posters, colouring packs and fundraising tips

• Your very own Elf Fun hat and certificate!

If you would like to take part in our festive Elf Fun event this winter please register now at fundraising@stpjhospice.org or check out our website stpjhospice.org

All funds from whatever Elf Fun activity you choose will go towards supporting St Peter & St James Hospice, so we can provide the best possible care in the right place and at the right time, to everyone who needs us

fundraising@stpjhospice.org stpjhospice.org

Discover The Christmas Cellars!

★ The bricked and arched Georgian cellars of East Hoathly Village Stores provide a fabulous venue to discover a treasure trove of Christmas gifts. The Christmas Cellars open late October.

East Hoathly Village Stores, 2 High Street, East Hoathly, BN8 6EB Tel: 01825 840321

The Truggery

★ A traditional Sussex Trug makes a beautiful, practical and sustainable Christmas gift. Perfect for any gardener or simply as a traditional treasure for the home.

Coopers Croft, Herstmonceux, BN27 1QL www.truggery.co.uk 01323 832314

Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning

★ At Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning we have a range of beautiful Gisela Graham Christmas decorations and gifts to choose from.

1 College Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 1QN 01444 416644 www.sarahlacey-drycleaning.co.uk

Flicker Rose

★ Parkminster candles and diffusers make perfect gifts, especially in scents ‘Noel’ and ‘Frankincense & Myrrh’. Pop in to see our full range of Christmas!

Shop 2. Cobblestone Walk, Steyning BN15 0QD

Find us on Facebook: & Instagram: @flickerrose 01903 814264 flickerrosesteyning@gmail.com

Shuna’s Vintage Clothes

★ Want to find something for Christmas? Look no further than Shuna’s Vintage Clothes. Shuna is an ex-costume designer and sells beautiful vintage clothes and accessories at Heathfield market on Tuesday mornings or by appointment.

01435 883436 or 07831 258582

Heathfield Market, Burwash Rd, Heathfield TN21 8RA

Aurelie & Rose

★ Shop beautiful vintage inspired gifts, homeware, clothing and cards at our shop in Eastbourne or via our website.

A huge range of different present ideas!

Units 65-66 Enterprise Shopping Centre, Station Parade, Eastbourne BN21 1BD 01323 640013 www.aurelieandrose.co.uk

Follow us on Facebook: @aurelieandrosevintage

Follow us on Instagram/Twitter: @aurelieandrose

Call: 01273

Smiffy Bears

★ Smiffy Bears in Steyning will be closing after Christmas. Owner Jackie Smith, who has been restoring bears for over thirty years, will continue with her teddy bear restoration service from her home in Goring-by-Sea and can be contacted on her mobile.

Jackie Smith 07885 075890

THE KING & I

In the autumn of 1984, as in most years, playground football was usurped for a couple of weeks by an insatiable appetite for conkers. The search for a decent tree and the successful foraging of a bag full of reliable specimens was essential to a good season. The annual skulduggery of baking, vinegar soaking, varnishing, and worse, began again in earnest.

It was a right of passage most boys my age endured, and one that’s slowly disappearing. Rules differed from one playground to another, but rapping knuckles ‘unintentionally’, windmills, snags, stringsies and stampsies remain part of the universal vernacular.

After a fortnight of conkering the playground was marbled with the detritus of defeated gladiators, the tarmac littered with shattered dreams. Two undefeated conkers remained that Friday lunchtime, and I had one of them, ready to battle it out to become playground champion. An audience assembled in keen anticipation and a fast talking Motsett from 3E instigated the dinner money funded turf accountancy.

Someone played Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s Two Tribes through the tinny headphones of their Sony

B NKERS

C NKERS

Walkman. My heart began to pound like the bass line. A slowly tightening circle formed around my nemesis and myself; my mortal enemy Stephen König, the boy from 3C who liked Kraftwerk and excelled at art.

All we missed was the sound of Murray Walker describing the proceedings as

the pair of us stood toe to toe, our fate hanging from Doc Marten laces. It would be a battle to the end, to the death: one conker as champion, the other in smithereens.

The inevitable hairline cracks began to show after several accurate sparring shots.

Jeering and cheering continued as the circle tightened further. In the commentary box, Murray was animated to the point of self-

König rapped my knuckles, hard. I loosened my grip just a little for blessed relief, only to witness his next hit rip the shoelace from my grip and before I could react the circle shouted ‘stampsies’ and it was all over.

A beaming Stephen König was embraced in the kerfuffle that followed. My naked, knotted shoelace lay on the ground, next to my crushed conker, the final gladiator defeated

We were two young lads, both unable to grasp Kipling’s concept of treating those imposters of ‘triumph and disaster’ the same. We didn’t talk for a while… a long while. I scored a penalty against him the following year; it was honours even after that.

Playground battles, world championships, a Balkan immigrant and a sport invented on the Isle of Wight; Robert Veitch looks into a few links to the horse chestnut tree

In the commentary box, Murray was animated to the point of selfcombustion

TICKET TO RYDE

Playground shenanigans aside, there’s more to conkers than glory and wounded pride. The horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum may be seen as a native tree these days, but like other examples of flora and fauna, it’s an immigrant.

It’s indigenous to the Balkan area of Europe, and was introduced to Britain during the Tudor period. Almost half a millennia later, there are around half a million horse chestnut trees dotted across the British landscape.

The name derives from the similarity to the sweet chestnut; both have vaguely similar leaf shapes and both generate mahogany fruits in prickly husks. But in reality they are from different families and completely unrelated.

Horse chestnut trees can grow up to 40m in height and live for up to 300 years. The wood is soft and has little commercial value, though being soft it is easy to carve.

Pink and white flowers blossom during May, their sky-reaching conical candelabra shapes enriching the canopy. After pollination the gloriously glossy, mahogany coloured seeds develop, and remain shielded from the hands of small children until autumn inside a spiky green husk, reminiscent of a World War II mine.

Until 1848 the seed of the horse chestnut was left alone to do its thing. But sometime during autumn that year, two people on the Isle of Wight deemed it a superior idea to bash horse chestnut seeds against each other, rather than the snail shells and hazelnuts used previously – conkers

had become entertainment. It might be the only sport ever invented on the Isle of Wight. From that point the game spread to the mainland, across the country and then overseas.

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

In 1965 the first World Conker Champion was crowned in Ashton, Northamptonshire, on a village green surrounded by horse chestnut trees. Like many good ideas, the tournament was conceived in the pub after a fishing trip had been cancelled due to bad weather.

Since then the championships have gone from strength to strength and this year’s iteration takes place on the 9th October.

Early winners were locals, but over time as the tournament gained more stature and began to pique the interest of conkerers elsewhere, winners have come from further afield, even overseas.

The number of competitors

can run to over 500 and the number of spectators has exceeded 5,000 on occasion.

A chap named William has won a world title on three occasions; write your own headline!

But there’s more to it than the glory of winning. Over almost 50 years the tournament has raised £420,000 to support charities for the visually impaired.

This autumn, as in all autumns since ‘the Isle of Wight incident’ eager children, both young and old, will gather beneath the boughs of horse chestnut trees across the country, full of hope and optimism… still bonkers for conkers. l

Their sky-reaching conical candelabra shapes light up the canopy

Ever So Easy

BEEF BOURGUIGNON

This simple recipe by Adele Trathan virtually cooks itself, but it is deliciously succulent and flavoursome. It’s ideal for a wholesome meal when you don’t want to be slaving over a hot stove

INGREDIENTS

1 onion, chopped

1 large carrot, peeled and chopped

1 stick of celery, finely sliced

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tbsp water

500g (1lb) stewing steak

150g (5oz) smoked bacon lardons

400ml (14fl oz) red wine

150ml (5fl oz) water

1 tbsp plain flour

1 beef stock cube

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

200g (7oz) small chestnut mushrooms

2 tbsp tomato puree

2 bay leaves

1 tsp dried thyme

fresh thyme, to garnish

METHOD

1

In a medium sized pan add the onion, carrots, celery, oil and water. Put on a medium heat, cover with a tight-fitting lid and sweat for 10-15 minutes until translucent and smelling sweet and succulent. Check occasionally and stir to stop them browning on the bottom of the pan. Set the pan aside, preheat the oven to 180C/360F/Gas 4.

foil. Cook for approximately 2 hours, the meat should be lovely and tender. Remove from the oven, the juices will have thickened but if you want to thicken them further, allow the fat to rise to the surface. Then sprinkle over a little plain flour, wait until the flour turns translucent, then tip into a large pan over a medium-high heat and stir until the juices have thickened.

2

Cut the meat into mouth sized pieces and toss in the flour. In a large pan fry the bacon lardons for a few minutes, then add all the other ingredients including the cooked onion base. Bring to the boil, stirring to mix the ingredients and season well with salt and pepper.

3 Turn into an ovenproof dish or roasting tin and cover tightly with kitchen

4

Serve on warmed dinner plates with rice, mashed or roasted potatoes, sprinkle over some fresh sprigs of thyme. This is tasty autumn comfort food.

SHEARER’S SERVES UP TASTE & VALUE

Since opening in 2013 Shearer’s Fine Foods, an independent delicatessen and food store, has built a loyal customer following. The product range has grown considerably and continues to change in response to customer requests, introducing new products and responding to market conditions.

The cheese and charcuterie counter is inevitably the focal point, and with over 50 cheeses plus cooked and cured meats, it is easy to see why. There is no compromise on quality, with cheeses checked daily to ensure that they are maturing in line with customers’ requirements. The range is underpinned with fabulous local cheeses alongside the best the UK has to offer as well as selected European cheeses.

It is a similar pattern all around the store with lots of tempting foods and drinks, including a wide range of awardwinning, vegan, and free-from products, to make you, your family and your friends feel truly spoiled.

There is such a lot to discover around the shop which always includes the following:

• Accompaniments: crackers, oatcakes, breadsticks, and crisps, plus pickles, mustards, chutneys, and jellies.

• Antipasti: an unrivalled ranged of olives and antipasti including whole, pitted and stuffed olives, balsamic onions and sundried tomatoes.

• Ingredients: herbs, spices, salts, oils, vinegars, stocks, sauces, beans, pulses, pasta, rice and fresh Chalk Hills Bakery bread.

• Frozen: loose sweet and savoury pastries, fruit and vegetable mixes, potato products plus restaurant quality desserts and ready meals.

• Chilled: cooking chorizo, humous, dips, anchovies plus pates, and cured meats.

• Confectionery: boxes of chocolates, truffles, Turkish delight, Italian pastries, nougat and the incomparable Rabitos.

• Drinks: wines from around the World, local beers and fruit juices, cordials, non-alcoholic fizz, teas and coffees.

• Equipment: paella pans, olive oil jugs, olives dishes, cheese knives and presentation boards.

A popular Shearer’s service, especially at Christmas time, are the food and drink gift hampers, which are boxed, packed and wrapped for free. Customers can choose their own contents from the Shearer’s range, or the team will gladly put together a suggested mix within the customers budget and requirements.

Shearer’s also supply food and drink for customer events which can include cheese boards, whole cheeses, cakes of cheese, charcuterie platters, whole hams, and handmade cakes and desserts.

With all these products, it is helpful to have the knowledgeable Shearer’s team on hand to answer questions about the products and guide customers through the different areas within the deli.

The future for Nick is all about delivering more of what his customers want, which means talking to more customers, searching for exciting new products and supporting his local community as he can.

the

CHICKPEA STEW Harissa

We all love some comfort food especially as autumn approaches and Adele Trathan loves this vegetarian stew. The creamy taste of chickpeas contrasting deliciously with the sharper flavours in this dish, make it a family favourite

INGREDIENTS

2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes

2 x 400g tins chickpeas, drained

2 tbsp olive oil

1 red onion, chopped

1 red pepper, chopped

1 yellow pepper, chopped

100ml (3½fl oz) white wine

1 vegetable stock cube

2 tsp harissa paste

1 tsp sugar

1 small bunch fresh mint

125g (4½oz) full fat yoghurt

METHOD

1 Put the onion and peppers into a pan with the olive oil and cook over a low heat with the lid on for 5 minutes. Then take the lid off and turn up the heat to brown for 5 minutes.

2 Add the tinned tomatoes, chickpeas, wine, stock cube, harissa and sugar and bring to the boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chop and add most of the fresh mint leaves (reserving 4 sprigs to serve).

3 Lower the heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes until the sauce has reduced.

4 Chop the remaining mint and mix with the yoghurt. Spoon into warmed bowls and top with a drizzle of yoghurt. Serve simply with crusty or flat bread or couscous. A warming and hearty meal.

The Dorset Arms

BUCKHURST PARK, WITHYHAM

The Earl De La Warr & family welcomes you to The Dorset Arms, part of the Buckhurst Estate. A village pub offering an excellent dining experience with locally-sourced produce and a warm welcome.

We have three stunning private drinks/dining ‘lodges’ in our garden that will be beautifully themed around winter. These can accommodate between 2-30 guests and are available for hire individually or together and can also be

combined with our rooms for overnight stays. With specially designed menus & party packages to choose from they are they are the perfect venue for any celebration you are planning.

Christmas at

of Battle

Ellie and her team offer a warm welcome when you dine at Trinity of Battle. Located in the historic Battle High Street and set in a beautiful and sympathetically converted Victorian Chapel. We aim to delight the taste buds and excite the senses with high-quality food in a family friendly restaurant with a wine bar atmosphere

We aren’t just serving food, we are providing a festive dining experience!

Easily accessible local public parking within a very short walking distance (Mount Street Car Park TN33 0AR)

As an island nation with a long history, it would be true to say that we have been influenced, sometimes against our rather conservative inclinations, by a range of other cultures and traditions. As Border Terriers, we come, as our name suggests, from the hinterland between England and Scotland and, I like to think, we are an embodiment of what is best about both nations. Even though we have our roots in British soil, I personally know of Border Terriers in California, Australia, New Zealand, Finland… we have, quite literally, got everywhere. We are influencers, movers and shakers, across the globe!

But this exchange hasn’t all been in one direction. According to the Kennel Club, the number of French Bulldogs in the UK has risen

As Halloween approaches, Teddy has been pondering the influence of other cultures upon our own. Told as ever by ‘Her Indoors’, the chief provider of treats, Helen Stockton

ten-fold between 2009 - 2015, and they are presently ranked right up there, just behind Labradors and Cockapoos in popularity.

Apparently, their flat faces and large eyes and ears give them Instagram presence and that contributes to their appeal. They seem a fine breed to me, and probably have about as much chance of being British through and through as they do of being French these days. They have been assimilated into the British dog owning culture

enriching our traditional, native breeds.

Whilst we might be rightly proud of our own heritage, influences from elsewhere are often a good thing. The idea of barbeques, that staple of British summer time, came from the West Indies, so we have them to thank for the divine right to the last sausage. And talking of food, isn’t curry our favourite national dish? If I dare to raise the spectre of Christmas in October, I believe the practise of decorating our houses and gardens with lights, was heavily influenced by the German tradition,

and Santa’s traditional garb, making him an easy target for the canine home guard, came from the USA.

Which brings me to another American tradition that has been assimilated into our culture, Halloween. Some begrudge the trick and treating, pumpkins flickering in the twilight and children in fancy dress, as a foreign incursion. Personally, I’m not in favour of dressing up, and all those shops selling Halloween costumes for dogs need to take a long, hard look at themselves, their values and ethos. However, I am in favour, of the treats option, and those little treat buckets that encourage a generosity of donation get a big paws-up from me. You really can’t have too many goodies! And if you want a trick, let me introduce you to my apprentice, Bear, she’d be happy to oblige in the mischief making department. She’d also be the better option for a fancy dress outfit as I’m not cut out for a scary role. Happy Halloween! l

Shops selling Halloween costumes for dogs need to take a long, hard look at themselves

need volunteers to maintain rescue shelter pens in their gardens. The pens

be provided by the Cats Protection Charity, which also covers the running

Please register your interest on 01273 813111 (Option 1), leaving your name and phone number so that we may contact

IF YOUask me...

As an elderly lady takes a well-earned rest, our horticultural correspondent, Flo Whitaker, examines her own socialist roots …

On 8th September, while sitting in a noisy Brighton restaurant, mobile phones started pinging with reports that The Queen had died. A hush descended as diners digested the news and remarked on the strangeness of it all. The day had started ordinarily with a queen as Head of State – but now a king was waiting in the wings, as the cleaners at St. James’s Palace got busy and officials studiously double-checked the paperwork required for declaring a new monarch; an event last-occurring so long ago, there was no-one alive from that far-away age to advise on procedure.

Coming from a staunchly left-wing background, where beer, chips and politics were staple fares passed around the kitchen table, I’m not particularly enamoured with the notion of monarchy. Once thought to rule by divine right, the gilded wheels fell off the royal gingerbread coach many years ago. We now know that,

in many respects, ‘they’ are just like us – but, while we have the luxury of behaving badly in private, their failings are constantly held up for public scrutiny.

Although the “Out with the old – In with the new!” method of royal succession seems ruthlessly swift, at least we’re spared months of electioneering. The King’s lifestyle is insanely privileged, but his job description could be described as a thankless task; with no right of reply or retirement prospects.

The protocol-bound Queen was unable to publicly say anything of real interest for 70 years, but her honest, heartfelt pledge of service made on her 21st birthday resonates across the decades. Contrast that with the greasy pole circus of the political world. Imagine having Tony Blair as President, or Boris Johnson’s mugshot decorating our postage stamps. I’m still no royalist, but, to my surprise, I seem to have been an Elizabethan all along.

Sleep well, Ma’am.

SUSSEX LIVING MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Sussex Living Ltd, Unit 4, Regent Business Centre, Jubilee Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 9TL

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