Village Tweet - April 2023

Issue

Welcome to the April issue, a packed issue with lots to do in and around your village throughout the Easter month. Although we had some snow, sleet and cold weather from the arctic in early March spring is definitely here at last (at least I hope it is –press deadlines being what they are I am writing this two weeks before you wil read it!)

Next month we have the Coronation Weekend to look forward to. On the opposite page you will see what is happeninging in Billingshurst over the bank holiday weekend, be sure to add these dates to your diary.

Grahame

TheCoronation of H M King CharlesIII

Your guide to what is going on in Billingshurst over the Coronation Weekend

The latest information will also be available to view on the dedicated ‘Coronation’ page on the Billingshurst Parish Council website

Friday 5th May, 3.30-5pm

Coronation Tea Party at the Billingshurst Centre

£7.50 per ticket

Tickets available at the Billingshurst Centre (be quick as numbers are limited)! Your ticket price includes an afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and cakes with bottomless tea and coffee! There will also be musical entertainment from Rob Nicholl. A fun afternoon, not to be missed!

Saturday 6th May

The Coronation

No local events are being arranged for the Saturday as the nation is likely to be glued to the television watching the Coronation

Sunday 7th May, 1-4pm

Community Picnic at Station Road Community Gardens

The event is open to everyone, bring along your picnic and a blanket. We have a children’s entertainer booked and are hoping to secure a band and light refreshments wagon

Monday 8th May, 9.30am-1pm

The ‘Big Help Out’ at Station Road Community Gardens

The aim of the Big Help Out is to use volunteering to bring communities together to maintain and develop the community garden project

Vicky Chase is the bellringing Tower Captain of St Mary’s church, Billingshurst. She is also the Training and Recruitment Team Leader for the Sussex County Association of Change Ringers (SCACR) and has been instrumental in promoting bellringing and supporting new and novice bellringers throughout Sussex.

Vicky’s commitment and enthusiasm for bellringing has been put to the test as she undertakes an ambitious challenge to celebrate her 50th birthday on the 27th April.

Her plan has been to ring bells in 50 Sussex bell towers in 50 days in the runup to and including the Saturday after her birthday. Along the way she has been collecting donations for the SCACR Bell Restoration Fund which provides financial assistance for the restoration, maintenance and improvement of existing church bells, towers and belfries.

Vicky kicked off her challenge on Saturday 11th March when she joined the Graffham ringers at St Giles church for a morning practice session. This was followed by her home church towers of St John the Baptist, Kirdford and St Mary’s Billingshurst. Since then, she has been touring the many towers of Sussex in a carefully planned journey. The presence of Holy Week during her challenge has hindered her schedule somewhat. Because there is no ringing

A sublime combination of sweet & tart

Preparation time: 25 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes. Makes 12 muffins

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 200°C fan /gas mark 7. Fill a 12-hole muffin tray with paper muffin cases.

2. Mix the sugar and rhubarb together and set on one side.

3. To make the crumble topping mix together the muscovado sugar with the flour, oats and cinnamon. Rub the butter into the mixture until it comes together into crumbly clumps.

4. Beat the oil and the egg lightly together, then stir in the vanilla and buttermilk. Pour the mixture over the sugar-coated rhubarb. Add the flour, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda and mix well.

5. Spoon the mixture into the cases, then cover each one with a thick layer of the crumble mixture. Bake for 15-18 mins until golden and a skewer poked into the centre of a muffin comes out clean.

during this week she will double-up on some towers to compensate.

Bellringers are famously welcoming to visitors and in each tower Vicky has slotted into their regular practice night, Saturday practice and Sunday service ringing. She has undoubtedly been challenged by some of the methods she has been expected to ring. Bellringing ‘methods’ are named memorised ringing patterns. ‘Saint Nicholas’ and other ‘Saint’ methods are Vicky’s favourites and on these she prefers to ring the treble (the lightest bell) or the tenor (the heaviest bell). Fortunately, at some of the venues there have been enough fellow method ringers to give her the chance to ring these methods. The whole process has also allowed her to perfect the ‘Bob Doubles’ and ‘Grandsire’ methods that she is learning.

Vicky is also looking forward to ringing in some of the bigger towers in Sussex, particularly one of the ten bell towers that exist in Brighton.

If you would like to support Vicky in her unique challenge and in doing so help preserve bells and bellringing in Sussex, go to her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/50towers or meet her when she visits your tower. The towers she will be visiting are listed on the Just Giving page.

Vicky Chase

Fifty Towers in Fifty Days for Fifty-Year-Old Vicky Rhubarb Crumble Muffins

INGREDIENTS

175g caster sugar

175g rhubarb, halved lengthways then diced

2 tbsp sunflower oil

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

125ml buttermilk

200g plain flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the crumble topping

50g light muscovado sugar

50g plain flour

25g porridge oats

1 tsp ground cinnamon

50g butter

Premium sparkling wine from Billingshurst

Locally available

The Horsham Cellar

Horsham Carfax

Joanna’s Boutique Tea Room

Storrington

The Billi Tap

Billingshurst

Pretty Things

Horsham

The Chequers Inn

Rowhook

Firebird Brewery

Rudgwick

Jeremy’s 2 Cowfold

New House Farm

Horsham

The Fox Inn

Rudgwick

Kissingate Brewery

Lower Beeding

Order online at housecoren.co.uk

Please enjoy Boco responsibly

“Inside this fabulously opulent bottle is a beautifully pale sparkling wine packed with gorgeous fruity notes.”

Tamara Hinson, Evening Standard

Good News

Our ears have been filled with such hard news from the suffering World and struggles all around. The impact of good news stories is a relief and restores our flagging hearts. What is the best news you have had recently for yourself or heard about? Perhaps an encouraging hospital test result. Maybe the opportunity to fulfil a longawaited dream. Reaching a target in weight-loss. Receiving a qualification you have worked hard for. Sharing good news is a great way to encourage each other.

Christmas seems such a long time ago but let your ears return to the message the Angels proclaimed. Do not be afraid, God has sent Jesus to the World. The longawaited promise of ultimate rescue has arrived. This good news is for all generations for all of time. We have now journeyed on towards Easter, and we see the depth of God’s love that went as far as his son dying on the cross for each of us. We have a God who bleeds for us, who enters into all the brokenness of our lives and brings the gift of eternal life and love. Good news that is

unchangeable.

Reading the account of Easter, you see the friends of Jesus stunned and overwhelmed by the death of Jesus. The power of Easter day is that death was not the end and Jesus rose again to bring the gift of life and eternity. Death and suffering were not the end. The friends of Jesus were overwhelmed by the good news and powerful joy that stepped into their experience. Some took a while to grasp what had happened. Others realised instantly.

The Good news revealed to us at Easter is that God has given life that is not destroyed by death and a love that stays present through our suffering.

As you settle into the celebrations of Easter take a moment to hear this good news that is life changing.

“He will wipe away all tears from their eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain.”

Bible Revelation 21:4 New International version

Village Tweet Quick Crossword Solution

Puzzle

Across: 1, ORRERY. 4, BRACED. 9, HOWEVER. 10, PHOTO. 11, RINGO. 12, HAS BEEN. 13, SPRING CLEAN. 18, AUSTRIA. 20, GONER. 22, ADIOS. 23, HOODLUM. 24, ANNOYS. 25, SKINNY.

Down: 1, OTHERS. 2, ROWAN. 3, RAVIOLI. 5, ROPES. 6, CHOLERA. 7, DROWNS. 8, ORTHOGRAPHY. 14, PASSION. 15, LOGBOOK. 16, MANANA. 17, FRUMPY. 19, RISKY. 21, NYLON.

BDS at the Women’s Hall

Ifirst became aware of the Women’s Hall over 60 years ago when, in 1960, my parents, John and Rene Humphreys, joined the Billingshurst Dramatic Society (BDS).

From then on the Women’s Hall became our second home. Eight years later I started to take part in the shows and have so many happy memories of rehearsals, set-building and productions.

The excitement of transforming the hall into what we thought of as our ‘Little Theatre’ for the week of the productions was wonderful.

The Women’s Hall was fairly basic in those early years. We would bring in extensions to make the stage bigger and somehow squash the cast into two tiny dressing-rooms –otherwise known as the toilets! One production, Jorrocks – our first musical – had such a large cast we had to erect a tent at the side of the hall for half the cast to change in.

In 1968 Ron Oulds, a talented director, actor, photographer, entered the BDS into the West Sussex Drama Festival with Alfie (very

controversial at the time) and they won! The following year he directed Tom Jones, another win for the BDS. For this production, we reversed the hall – the audience were seated on the stage and half the floor space, and the set was built in front of the entrance doors. Tarpaulins were put up around the porch which became the dressing-room for all the 20-plus cast. It worked very well, except it snowed so it was difficult to keep the cast warm!

The Women’s Hall and the BDS were responsible for introducing me and my family to many wonderful local characters including Jack Leaman, Bill Bousfield (one of two village doctors at that time), John Farmer, Nevin Davies, Pam Leaman, Geoff Cooper and many others, all of whom have become life-long friends.

May the Women’s Hall continue for many more years as a home for the BDS and other organisations serving the people of Billingshurst.

Thank you, Ellen and Edith Beck.

Sue Pollard

Photo: BDS’s 1986 production of Jorrocks at the Women’s Hall

Make it a Mid-Night to Remember!

St Catherine’s Hospice invites the local community to ‘Walk, Celebrate and Remember’ with the charity, and join them for a night of fun and reflection.

The Midnight Walk takes place on Saturday 10th June and will be even more special in 2023 as it marks St Catherine’s 40th Anniversary with extra entertainment, more support along the route and special prizes for top fundraisers.

Starting from The Bridge Leisure Centre, Broadbridge Heath, walkers can choose a distance to suit them of two, seven, 13 or 20 miles. Routes all go through Horsham town and provide a safe and fully marked walk.

Laura Connolly has taken part in the Midnight Walk eight times since the event began in 2011 and will be taking part again this year. She says, “It is such a fun and welcoming environment and it’s inspiring seeing everyone there for the same reason. That feeling doesn’t wear off – there’s a real sense of camaraderie. The support you get on the route is great too; marshals give you positive reinforcement the whole way round.

“So many people taking part are walking in memory of someone. I feel that it’s a way to take the sadness that you don’t know what to do with and channel it into something positive. There are tutus and glow sticks which are fun on the night, but you also have the

Billingshurst Choral Society

MUSIC DIRECTOR: MARCIO DA SILVA

remembrance wall for reflection.

“Every time I cross the finish line, I feel really proud of myself because it’s a challenge, and you can hurt in places you didn’t know were there! But there is a wonderful sense of pride and, as you drink your Prosecco at the end, you’re so happy for everyone around you too! The more times I do it, the more I want to do it. It’s a really positive experience.”

To launch the Midnight Walk, St Catherine’s is offering a 50% discount on the registration fee to the first 100 walkers who sign up using the code FIRST100.

Registration includes: a welcome pack, a Midnight Walk t-shirt, refreshments on the night, and an exclusive Midnight Walk medal, glass of fizz and breakfast once you cross the finishing line.

St Catherine’s encourages everyone to fundraise to help it care for around 2,000 people every year living with a terminal illness in its hospice in Crawley, in their own homes or in care homes.

Register for the Midnight Walk at www.stch.org.uk (click the Support us tab). Alternatively, call St Catherine’s friendly team on (01293) 447361

Anna Jackson, Communications and PR Manager

Photo: Just seven of the many people taking part in 2022s Midnight Walk

Cricket coaching for kids – come and join the fun!

An exciting summer lies ahead at Billingshurst Cricket Club (BCC) as the new season gets underway.

Two new all-action programmes for budding young cricketers are being rolled out at the club’s home, the Jim Burroughs Oval at Jubilee Fields.

All Stars Cricket, for boys and girls aged 5-8, will run every Tuesday from 9th May for eight weeks from 4.155.15pm. Sessions will be run by a professional coach and your little star will be given a great introduction to the fabulous game. All players will receive a personalised kit bag including bat, ball and T-shirt.

Don’t get caught out! Sign your little cricketer up now for all the fun at allstarscricket.co.uk. Dynamos Cricket is for children aged 8-11 and this fun programme will also be run by professional coaches from 9th May for eight weeks from 5.15-6.15pm. Every child who registers will receive their very own Dynamos Cricket New Balance T-shirt, personalised with their name and number on the back and have

access to a brand-new digital app, packed with exclusive cricket content, unlockable skills challenges, quizzes and activities.

Sign up at dynamoscricket.co.uk.

Family-friendly BCC will be fielding two men’s Saturday League sides and a Sunday team this season, as well as U12 and U14 colts. Men’s training takes place on Wednesday and Friday evenings and new players of all ages and abilities are always welcome.

The thriving women’s section has a number of softball games planned, with training on Thursday evenings. Women’s captain Rachel Gosling said, “Women’s softball cricket is a game for absolutely everybody, no matter your skill level, fitness, or age. The game is designed to give everyone a fair opportunity to bat, bowl and field, in a supportive environment which makes it a brilliant way for women and girls from age 11 upwards to come and have a go.”

To be part of all the action e-mail billingshurstcc@gmail.com

John Sheehan

1932 and all that Jazz

Billingshurst Bowling Club has vacancies for new members

Billingshurst Bowling club was founded back in 1932 by a group of local shopkeepers and retailers…

The green was leased for a shilling a year and was surrounded by pasture, so a fence had to be put up to stop the cattle coming in. There were only three rinks back then and a hand-mower was used to cut the grass. Mains water and electricity would not arrive for many years to come.

King George V was on the throne and Ramsay McDonald, the Prime Minister. 1932 was a very difficult time, right in the middle of the great depression, yet these shopkeepers and local villagers set up a little club and 90 years later it is still it is still here, a great testament to their belief in sport, competition, good company, and friendship.

Back then and on the green, the topic of conversation at the time was about The Ashes test match series against Australia, with England led by Douglas Jardine, which became known as the infamous ‘Bodyline’ series.

Reading included the latest Poirot book by Agatha Christie. Music from Noel Coward’s latest hit, Mad about the Boy, could be heard playing, followed by It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing by Duke Ellington.

Laurel & Hardy’s latest film The Music Box was playing to packed houses – about two removal men moving a piano up a large flight of stairs. They could pick up a loaf for a 1p, 2.5kg potatoes for 3p, a pint of milk for 5p and with petrol costing just 2p a litre.

The average weekly wage was just over one pound eleven shillings and that was for a 50-hour working week. When ever did they find time to play bowls!

We are about to start our new 2023 season on Saturday 22nd April 2023 from 2pm, our 91st so if you would like to come along and try this wonderful sport, meet new friends and enjoy a bit of competition please call Barry Gilbert on 07858 407537 and book your space.

Barry Gilbert

Dandelion Farewells warmly invites you to contact us if you have any questions about the funeral you need to arrange.

We are committed to enabling families to plan a funeral that is personal, meaningful and affordable. We will support you to create a farewell that is appropriate and unique, thereby taking away much of the strain of planning such a signi昀cant event. We will be with you every step of the way.

Tapestry Day Club

Do you need a supporting hand?

Are you supporting someone with Dementia? We are a warm and caring social club with a difference – Tapestry Day Club supports those affected by Dementia across communities in West, Mid Sussex and Surrey.

Tapestry Day Club is a notfor-profit social enterprise offering high quality stimulating small group day support for people living with early-stage Dementia and/or living in social isolation. We employ fully vetted and trained hosts who run their small groups (up to six ‘guests’) in the comfort and safety of the hosts’ own family homes. Transport, refreshments, a two-course lunch and fun optional activities are included in the day.

Jenny – one of our guests - attends weekly and has been with us for over a year. Her daughter feels less worried about her mum feeling alone: “TDC provides an outstanding service. Their approach is bespoke, aimed at providing a friendly fun group atmosphere as well as delicious home cooked meals. Their approach of viewing people as having rich life experiences and engaging people in Life as Activity is to be commended. It is social inclusion at its best for dementia care.

Providing a normal group in a family home which she would not have otherwise. I am immensely grateful and humbled. It is also extraordinarily good value for money. I sometimes wish I could go instead of going to work! A truly personcentred service with an emphasis on promoting Living a Good Life with Others. To be commended.”

Kelly – one of our hosts –works once a week and says, “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work with TDC and I enjoy it so much, it never feels like a job – it is my favourite day of the week.”

Richard – one of our guest’s carers – says, “This club has been a lifeline and made such a difference to Mum and me. So delighted that you can host Mum each Tuesday – I can claim my day back!”

If you could do with a supporting hand to help care for someone living with dementia and/or struggles with social isolation, or you are interested in becoming a host, please e-mail: directors@tapestrydayclub.co.uk or visit our website: www.tapestrydayclub.co.uk

Clare Jones, Co-Founder, Tapestry Lunch Club

Billingshurst Schedule April

fanny

newman

Billingshurst Men’s Shed gets off the ground

Facilitated by Billingshurst & District Lions, the Billingshurst Men’s Shed project is now off the ground – literally.

Initiated in January 2021, early progress was slow due to COVID lockdown and difficulty finding a suitable central location for a ‘Shed’. In the meantime ‘Shedders’ used premises with the kind permission of the Unitarian Chapel and then at the Scout hut in Lower Station Road, where small projects could be undertaken.

After several refusals, a suitable permanent site was eventually located in the far corner of Station Road Gardens. But then the planning application was beset by long delays for a variety of reasons, including who owned different parts of the land and water neutrality issues, until it was accepted this was irrelevant with no plans for a water supply or drainage on the site.

Two redundant sheds were located, dismantled and stored to make a reasonable sized workshop on prepared foundations. Work has now progressed using a unique system of ground screws, with a series of metal posts screwed into the ground to carry a subframe clear off the ground, as shown in the photographs.

In spite of the name, emanating from its origins in Australia, the Billingshurst Men’s Shed is open to women as well as men and there is currently a core of

active members.

Now that things are moving, anyone interested in joining to meet new friends and for fellowship is invited to contact David Ambrose, tel: (01403) 786284 or e-mail: billimensshed@outlook.com

Lions Charity Golf Day – Thursday 25th May

Arrangements are now in hand for the ever popular Billingshurst Lions Charity Golf Day at the Slinfold Golf and Country Club, with all proceeds this year for Chestnut Tree House Hospice.

Entries are invited for teams of four, all male, all female or mixed. Stableford scoring will apply using Full Handicap. Billingshurst Lions Golf Days always represent excellent value with golfers knowing that they are supporting a deserving charity. Entry fees include refreshments on arrival and a meal after the golf, followed by the usual range of excellent prizes.

For further information and details on how to enter, please contact Roger Skillin, tel: (01403) 700221, or e-mail roger.skillin@talk21.com

Follow Billingshurst & District Lions on Facebook and on their website www.billingshurstlions.org.

And don’t forget to visit the Lions Charity Bookshop in Jengers Mead! Harvey Holmes – Press Officer, Billingshurst & District Lions Club

Photo: Ground Screw piling system, underpinning the support base for the Billingshurst Men’s Shed project

A Good Read

April’s selection from book reviewer Tash Donovan

Once Upon a River – Diane Setterfield

In Once Upon a River, Setterfield has created a captivating and atmospheric novel that follows the story of a mysterious a young girl, found on the banks of the Thames and seemingly resurrected from the dead. She’s taken in by the local pub owner and his family, who nurse her back to health, but her appearance sets off a chain of events that draws together a disparate group of characters, including a traveling storyteller, a grieving father, and a barmaid with a remarkable voice. As the girl’s identity is slowly revealed, the characters are forced to confront their own secrets and desires.

One of the most striking things throughout the novel is Setterfield’s mastery of language. She paints vivid pictures of the river and its surroundings, making the reader feel as though they are right there alongside the characters. The descriptions of the water, the sky, and the countryside are all rich and evocative, adding to the sense of mystery and wonder.

The novel explores themes of loss, grief, and the power of storytelling, weaving together a rich tapestry of folklore and mystery, with enough plot twists to keep the reader guessing until the very end.

The Day the War Came – Nicola Davies, illustrated by Rebecca Cobb

The Day War Came is a powerful and moving story that delves into the emotional and psychological effects of war on a young girl and her family. The author does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of the horrors of war and the impact it has on innocent lives. The main character, a young girl named Callie, is a relatable and likable protagonist who young readers can connect with.

Davies does not shy away from tackling difficult and heavy themes, such as death and loss, but she does so in a way that is both honest and respectful, helped by Cobb’s beautifully observed illustrations which serve to enhance the storytelling.

Given the war in Ukraine, the portrayal of the refugee and migratory experience is relevant and poignant, revealing struggles and sacrifices that families make in order to survive. Davies’ story is a reminder that war has real human consequences and that every person affected by it has a unique and painful

This thought-provoking read is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding. It’s also a call to action for readers to do their part to make the world a more peaceful place.

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The Renegades – nachos another youth club!

The Renegades Youth Club threw their sombreros in the air and got into the Mexican spirit with a fantas-taco themed film night and sleepover.

“Riba riba! Literally everyone got involved in prepping and cooking the Mexican inspired food. We made beef and chicken spiced fajitas, guacamole, salsa and even flour tortillas. And, I think because they were involved in the cooking, the plates were licked clean – it was like watching a school of piranhas in action,” laughs Group Leader Gareth Miller.

“Huge thanks to Rafe Gowers for helping with the sleepover. Every one of the kids was able to handle and work safely with sharp knives…thank goodness.

“Food and pans cleared, the kids had a great time doing LARP archery – a form of archery involving specially designed safety arrows and face masks – before running out of steam and crashing in front of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.”

The next sleepover will have an Indian theme – and parents are as welcome as the children.

There is a definite food theme this month…

“Another night the utterly fantastic dad Marco Vettese encouraged the children to have a go making proper

pasta from flour. The kids were spellbound,” says Gareth.

“On Shrove Tuesday (Shrove Monday in our case!), every child made their own batter and pancakes…and chose a variety of (sometimes bizarre!) toppings, before polishing them off.”

Despite transport issues, we have managed to keep the weekly canoeing going – thanks to Sam Keywood of Keywood Tree Care for his time and towbar! – the weather of the last few weeks has made it a real treat. Our wonderful canoeing specialist ‘Gandalf the paddle’ Mr Ric Davies has started some of the kids on their canoeing qualifications and some of the older young people are training for their Duke of Edinburgh bronze awards and youth leader coaching.

The kids are cracking on with their art and photography projects and we are planning weekend trips to London’s museums and galleries and to the coast.

The Renegades is a Registered Charity. Membership is free or a voluntary contribution of £10 a month. Please contact Gareth Miller on 07801 862550 or Damian Dixon on 07484 130189 for further information.

GB Glazing Ltd

Vanda Rumney

Photo: it gets batter and batter: Renegades making pancakes!

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A CHOIR FOR ALL VOICES

The North Singers was formed by two Loxwood residents in 2011 so that local people could experience the fun and enjoyment of singing together.

Not just an average village choir, The North Singers are a vibrant, friendly and sociable group committed to working hard whilst maintaining a good sense of humour.

Under the tutorship of our multi-talented Musical Director Jon Openshaw, we have become a versatile group singing a wide variety of music including popular songs, show tunes, traditional folk arrangements, classical and operatic pieces, and others of an international flavour. The choir’s community spirit is shown in our twice-yearly themed concerts and local Christmas concert as well as a performance at the local Loxwood Village Fete which always goes down well.

The North Singers are also proud to support local young musicians by giving them a platform to perform at our concerts.

Having managed to work our way through the pandemic, including holding rehearsals in North Hall car park to maintain social distancing, with a new committee and renewed enthusiasm we wish to encourage new potential members to come along for a free singing session to see if they would enjoy themselves. No music reading ability is required, just an enthusiasm to enjoy singing with friends.

Rehearsals take place in North Hall on Wednesday evenings, 7.30-9.15pm (with tea and coffee). For further information please contact Tina Boswell on (01403) 258070 or visit www.thenorthsingers.com

Billingshurst Rainbows needs you!

Billingshurst Rainbows needs a team of volunteers to continue this successful unit and allow the girls to carry on being Rainbows at the start of their Guiding journey.

Do you remember the fun you had at guiding, or know someone that went to this Unit? Come and join us for a new, fun and exciting challenge! You will be fully supported, have a great time and learn new skills. Rainbows are aged 4-7 and we currently meet each week during term time.

You could be part of the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK, with over 320,000 members. Girl Guiding has over 80,000 amazing volunteers. We give girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships, gain valuable life skills and make a positive difference to their lives and their communities. Rainbows love to be active and work on their programme to gain their Rainbow Awards. The Rainbows highlights this term have been pond

dipping, Clip & Climb and cooking. We build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. We give them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good. We give them a space to have fun.

The Rainbows don’t want the unit to close. Please support your local unit.

Stephanie says, “The best thing about Rainbows is having fun and supporting

friends and her best activity was meeting the reptiles and holding the snakes!” Another Rainbow said, “My favourite is my Promise badge. I like learning new things and making new friends. I love all of the Leaders. They make Rainbows amazing.” Want to know more? Please phone 0800 1695901 or visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved.

Photo: Rainbows celebrating Chinese New Year this January

Billingshurst Parish Council

Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre Roman Way, Billingshurst, RH14 9QW

King

Charles’ Coronation weekend

The coronation of King Charles III is due to take place on Saturday 6th May, and there will be several celebratory events taking place in the parish of Billingshurst over that weekend. See page 3 for full information on what is happening and where, together with details on how you can get involved.

Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for more details in the coming weeks. We will also make sure that there are posters on our noticeboards as well for those without access to the internet.

Voting in Elections this May

Horsham District Council (HDC) has announced that there will be full District and Parish elections on Thursday 4th May 2023.

This May will be the first time that voter identification will be required to be shown by all voters at a polling station. This has been introduced under the Elections Act 2022 Voters need to show an approved form of photo identity before voting in a polling station, the ID does not have to be current, provided the likeness is still true. The document must be an original document. See full list of photo ID accepted at GOV.UK or contact HDC on (01403) 215100. Anyone without suitable photo identification will be able to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC).

Billingshurst In Bloom

Look out in next month’s Village Tweet for details of the Billingshurst in Bloom Front Garden competition. Even if you haven’t entered before, please consider doing so this year.

Billingshurst Choral Society

The Billingshurst Choral Society, along with professional soloists and musicians, will be performing popular choruses from operas by Puccini, Verdi, Bizet, Mascagni and many others, on 29th April at 7.30 pm at Fishers Farm Theatre. Tickets available online at billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk.

Parish Precept Increase for 2023-2024

Council tax bills will shortly be arriving through letterboxes, and although there are usually explanatory leaflets from West Sussex and Horsham Councils plus the Police & Crime Commissioner, Parish and Town Councils are denied such an opportunity. Hence, we thought we would use this medium to explain why the amount you pay to Billingshurst Parish Council is going up in 2023-2024. Parish Councillors thought long and hard about whether to increase the council tax and if so by how much, mindful that

in a nutshell, everything is going up, wages are not keeping up, and no one knows what the near future might hold.

The Parish Council provides very local services such as open spaces, street cleaning, public toilets and the Billingshurst Centre to name but four. Whilst these might not be in the same league as education and social services, they are nonetheless important to the village to keep it a good place to live, work and visit. Unlike district and county councils, parishes receive no funding from central government, relying solely on what residents pay. Thus, the increased cost of running things, made up of wages, materials and energy also has to fall on residents.

Councillors went through every budget line carefully, pruning where it was sensible to do so, in order that front-line services that residents really appreciate were protected; one of these is the Neighbourhood Wardens which, although delivered by Horsham District Council, are entirely funded by the Parish Council which is funded by you.

In terms of facts and figures, for 2023-2024 the Council has approved:

• a budget of £607,723 which is an increase of £53,608 or 9.67%.

• a total council tax take of £490,586

For an average Band D property this equates to:

• £109.39 per year or £2.10 per week.

• a rise of £7.62 per annum or 7.49%

• 15 pence extra per week.

To find out more about the things your precept helps to pay for, please visit www.billingshurst.gov.uk/facilities

Parish Council meetings are open to the public, for more information please visit www.billingshurst.gov.uk/meetings

Parish Council elections are due to be held in May 2023.

Annual Parish Meeting of Electors

Each year we include a presentation on a matter which we hope will be of interest to residents, and this year is no exception. We are delighted to confirm that this year’s headline act will be a visit from The Dogs Trust in Shoreham. Our visitor Jennifer Cruse, a Supporter Relations Officer, will be able to tell you all about the work of the Trust and take questions. She may even (if we’re lucky) be able to bring a four-legged visitor and either way, we will have a pot for donations to the Trust to help support their vital work.

There will of course be the usual report from the Council, but the rest of the meeting is yours so come along and ask any question relating to the Parish. Don’t forget that this is

YOUR Meeting, not a Council meeting! If you would like to join us, please pop along to the Billingshurst Centre, Wednesday 12th April at 7pm

Arrival of Swifts in Billingshurst

I am already anticipating the arrival of our swifts in May. After the hot, dry summer of 2022 I hope that good numbers of swifts will return this year.

First to arrive back from Africa will be the mature swifts who will try to occupy the same nest as the previous year. They remain fairly unobtrusive at the nest while they rear usually just two chicks before commencing the difficult migration back to Africa in late July/August. Swifts are colonial nesters which no doubt helps them to share information vital to their survival. During their short stay here you might be fortunate to witness groups of swifts flying low and calling loudly to one another over Billingshurst High Street or St Mary’s church. This behaviour is referred to as ‘screaming parties’ and indicates that young swifts, arriving later in June, are trying to establish a nest of their own to return to in future years. You can help swifts in Billingshurst by reporting sightings of ‘screaming parties’ to helen.toole@btinternet.com.

Swifts are a marvel of Nature Helen Toole, Billigreen

Upcoming Council meetings

All meetings are held at the Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre (normally commencing at 7.30pm), and agendas are always posted on the Parish Council’s website www.billingshurst.gov.uk.

Upcoming Meetings (April)

6th: Planning & Environment Committee

12th: Annual Parish Meeting

19th: Working Practices Committee

26th: Billingshurst Centre and F&GP Committees

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John Nash is a retired, well sort of retired, fruit farm manager in Kirdford who enjoys scribbling about life on the farm from the now to days gone by.

Hi my friends,

It’s been a difficult month. Several hospital visits for family members, and friends have made the last few weeks eventful and very informative. With all the recent problems in the health service I can only give the highest praise to the work carried out by the nurses and doctors at both the Guildford and Chichester hospitals. Car parking at Guildford though… now that’s another story!

I took Sally to Guildford for a scan. To help us manoeuvre through the hospital she thankfully agreed to taking a wheelchair as it can be difficult locating one sometimes at the entrance. We arrived at the Royal Surrey Hospital a good quarter of an hour before her appointment was due so no problem then…

Wrong! I think an hour before might have been a better time! We entered the merry-go-round that is this hospital’s public car park – and proceeded to pollute the air with our exhaust gasses for the next fifteen minutes along with a multitude of other bewildered, fuming, and then despairing drivers. You creep along, peering up each side branch, seeking that elusive space. Necks stretched to spot the sign of anyone who appears to be returning to their car. Fat chance!

Our appointment time arrived and we were all still circling like desperate Apaches seeking a gap in a wagon train. Now and then we see a lucky soul drive into a space that has just been vacated, and we glower at the smirking driver as they smugly lock their car and amble off towards the pay stations. Yes, they charge us for all this fun!

Finally I give up. Out the exit, turn left down the

hill, cross the large intersection and seek a desperate refuge in the Tesco car park. Then it’s a steady climb back up the hill pushing Sally in her wheelchair to the Hospital’s main entrance. This was accompanied by a constant supply of apologies from Sally, and an increasing huffing and puffing from yours truly. The former being not needed as it was hardly poor Sally’s fault, the latter undoubtedly being of my own doing… I should get fit, and I shouldn’t get old!

Once ensconced in the hubbub of the hospital all went quickly and very efficiently despite the lateness of our appearance. I got the feeling it’s something the exasperated staff have grown accustomed to. Within half an hour we were outside again. Then it was downhill all the way…literally. Good job the chair had brakes! And, by the way, thank you Tesco!

Two days later the two of us were off again. This time the destination was St Richards at Chichester. Sally’s plaster cast needed examining as to whether her broken wrist had healed enough for the cast to be removed.

What a difference. Yes, the car park was busy, but there were still gaps to find without the constant circling of the territory. Thank you Chichester!

So folks, what’s been your experience of parking at these hospitals? How have you coped? Answers on a postcard after you’ve got over your temper tantrum.

By the way… have heard? on the subject of driving… I came out of the pub the other night after a very pleasant evening. The landlord suggested that as I had partaken of quite a large amount of his delightful beverage, I should leave my car in the car park and take a bus.

Didn’t make any difference. I crashed that!

Cheers!

John Nash

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The Spaniel Diaries

Phew, what a time I’ve had lately. I had to visit the doggy doctor and the next thing I know I’ve woken up with a bucket on my head and have been confined to a crate! How undignified, even more so is that a part of me has gone missing too! The worst bit was not being able to go out for a good long run. I was stuck on my lead for ages, then another undignified trip to the doggy doctor wher I was given the all clear to run, and run I did! It was heaven to be on the grass galloping my heart out again! I mean, I even missed going out with Mav the idiot, at least he runs with me!

Over my enforced incarceration I have become good friends with the puppy. He’s less annoying lately since he stopped trying to hang off my ears, and he spent lots of time lying next to my crate; the company was actually quite nice. Mav was an idiot and suspicious of my head bucket so left me alone, he probably thought he’d be wearing it next! I am working on getting the puppy onside and teaching him to annoy Mav!

We have also been to the Doggy Hotel as mum and dad had the cheek to go away without us for a few days! I was in charge of the puppy – apparently I’m a good influence on him and I make him feel more confident.

Mav thinks he’s the bee’s knees because mum took him out on a special training course to teach him to behave nicely around the fluffy white things in fields; mum always puts our leads on when we are near them but also insists we walk calmly and quietly. Of course I do and I have to hand it to Mav, so does he, it’s especially important now as there are lots of baby white fluffies around.

We are all off on holiday soon. So exciting, lots of long new walks and the puppy is coming. I shall have to teach him to look for logs in the woods and relocate them! He doesn’t seem interested at the moment, preferring instead to run around like a looney. He literally does not stop; it’s exhausting watching him. Even Mav can’t be bothered to keep up with him!

Jeannette Douglas

Once upon a time on a small farm near Billingshurst…

Nanny

and Grandad were packing and sniping again and Poppy knew it was nearly time to go in the car again to the other place at Camber. She wasn’t worried this time because she was used to it and she loved the beach for long runs and adventures.

She might not have been worried, but Nanny was. As well as Poppy behaved – except for howling plaintively when she was left by herself, or couldn’t see someone or wasn’t obeyed immediately – she was unpredictable when out and about on a lead. When startled or if someone ran by– kids, pushchairs, bicycles or joggers – she would snarl at them ferociously. This behaviour happened a lot at Camber and it worried Nanny because Poppy had to be on a lead all the time there and she so wanted Poppy to be ‘cute’ in both appearance and in temperament.

She was so worried in fact, that she had a Zoom session with Mark the Dog Behaviourist man and he helped a great deal with some ideas and techniques which Nanny put into immediate practice. And this is what happened:

Trial 1: Walking along Billingshurst High Street, perfect, until a little girl skipped past unexpectedly – lunge and snarl. Sigh.

Trial 2: A visit to Osbourne Court for a church service, absolutely perfect even with Jeffrey the resident dog. The residents loved seeing her and she loved them, until a carer walked quickly by unexpectedly – lunge and snarl. Sigh.

Trial 3: A trip to Sunday service at St Mary’s,

absolutely perfect EVEN with kids running around! Smiles.

Trial 4: A visit to a loose lead clinic in Storrington with Emma. Nanny was a bit nervous because she had missed the sign three times in the dark and only got there on time after turning the car around repeatedly. Nanny and Poppy walked in, and Poppy stopped dead. There were two other dogs there and they were HUGE. They looked at Poppy wondering what this creature was and Poppy looked back, “Ah, no thanks,” she said as she turned around and started to leave. “No way,” replied Nanny and led her to the back of the hall. Poppy stood and checked the place out. The big dogs stayed in their corners and she stayed in hers. After that they did the lesson and Poppy wasn’t too distracted. In fact she worked quite hard. (So did Nanny!) Emma said they’d done very well. Nanny slept well that night until Poppy had to get up and go to the toilet (too many treats!) Lots of smiles.

To help Poppy to deal with unexpected events, Nanny came to the conclusion that it would be up to HER to keep HER eyes peeled and pre-empt any Poppy lunge and snarls.

So now it was time to go back to Camber. Everything was packed and the trailer loaded up to the gills with furniture and STUFF. As this time it was to be for a bit longer, Nanny and Poppy would have loads of time to practise before they came back to Dog Club and to that little farm near Billingshurst.

Yvonne Fleece

Nanny working hard

Wildflowers are a great addition to any garden as they can add texture, variety, and interest. Not only are they beautiful, but they also have many environmental benefits. They attract pollinators. Wildflowers attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators to your garden. These pollinators play a vital role in the garden ecosystem by pollinating crops, fruits, and vegetables. Biodiversity. All these pollinators promote biodiversity by providing habitat and food for a variety of other insects, birds and animals. They improve soil health. When they die off, wildflowers can be dug into the soil to promote better structure and add organic matter. They can also help prevent erosion by wind and rain.

In addition, wildflowers are low-maintenance. This is very important if you have a busy job with little time to garden but still want a pretty outdoor space.

For best results select an area with plenty of sunlight. Find a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Wildflowers prefer well-drained soil so if your garden soil is heavy clay you may need to improve the structure by digging in grit and organic matter.

There are so many different varieties of wildflowers. You can customise the colours to your personal taste. Look on the seed packets

and consider the bloom time, colour, and height of the flowers. Avoid invasive species or plants that may not be appropriate for your garden.

Remove any existing grass or weeds from your chosen area and loosen the soil with a garden fork. Rake it over to create a smooth, flat surface, and then lightly compact the soil with a roller or your feet.

When it comes to sowing you can either broadcast the seeds over the entire planting area or plant them in rows. Seeing the area you’ve already covered is easier if you mix the seeds with sand or vermiculite before sowing. Once you have sown the seeds gently rake the surface to cover them with a thin layer of soil.

Water the area thoroughly to help the seeds settle into the soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which should take one to three weeks depending on the varieties of wildflowers you’ve selected. Once the seeds have sprouted, water as required and pull out any weeds that pop up.

I absolutely love wildflowers. There is something wonderfully spontaneous about them, and the best thing about them is that anyone, keen gardener or total beginner can enjoy them.

Happy gardening!

Rachel Leverton

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Loxwood Community Gardens Initiative

Charity Talk at North Hall, Loxwood, in aid of Perennial by Ben Pope

On 21st April the Loxwood Community Gardens Initiative will be hosting a very interesting and informative talk by Ben Pope, a very well respected and admired local Head Gardener, who gardens in an amazing local, private garden.

Both Ben and the garden have appeared very recently on an episode of BBC’s Gardeners’ World

Tuesday 18th April, 7 for 7.30pm start. We welcome Ben Cross of Crosslands Flower Nursery who will be giving a talk on Alstroemerias

After the talk, Ben will be selling his flowers £3 per bunch (cash only please)

Visitors are most welcome, £5.

The meeting will be held at West Chiltington Village Hall, Mill Road, RH20 2PZ.

For more information, please contact Brenda (01798) 813712 or Carol (01798) 813608

Email: wchiltfloralclub@gmail.com

The Talk will be in aid of our adopted Charity, ‘Perennial’, a nationwide Charity which supports people working in horticulture.

This event will take place at North Hall, Loxwood, on Friday 21st April, starting at 7.30pm. We would suggest you arrive around 7pm to take advantage of our licensed bar. During the evening, we will be holding a raffle which will help to bolster our profits and there will be many valuable prizes on offer.

Tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis, so we would suggest you get your order in early. Tickets are very reasonably priced at £7 per person and the money will be collected on the door. Please bring cash to purchase your tickets, drinks and the raffle. To reserve your tickets, please email Graham and Gina Moore on ginamoore@btopenworld.com or telephone (01403) 751722.

Graham Moore, Chairman LCGI

What to do if you find a swarm of honey bees

Swarming is a natural instinct for bees and all colonies if left to their own devices will eventually swarm. This is part of their means of reproduction; if they didn’t there would be no bees.

The swarm has to find a new home but in the meantime it will find a branch, fence or a gate to hang off. Worker bees scout around until they find a suitable tree, chimney or roof space and then return to the swarm to show them the way to their new home. This can take a few minutes or a couple of days.

Prior to leaving the nest they will fill up with honey to last them on their journey, so they need to find somewhere before they get hungry. Swarms of bees are not normally aggressive but best not approached, sprayed with water or have things thrown at them. The best course of action is to call a local beekeeper who can re-home them safely. There are several beekeepers in our area but the best place to check is the BBKA website www.bbka.org.uk. There you can put in your post code and all the local collectors will be listed. Or you can call 07966 509424

Martin Hill, Loxwood

Billingshurst Fire Station offer Free Safe and Well visits

Thank you to everyone that attended our Charity Car Wash on 25th March. A final total will be announced next month. We can’t thank the community’s generosity enough. You have all contributed in your own way and this means so much to The Firefighters Charity. The charity would not survive without these type of fundraising events. We look forward to the next one.

We are also pleased to be able to announce that our Open Day has been confirmed for Saturday 2nd September. Open Days take a lot of planning so we are already getting bits in place. A full run through of the day will be in a later issue.

A little update on station. We have two new potential recruits who are coming to the end of their recruitment process. If successful they will

both undergo further training in May before joining us on station where their Fire Service Careers start.

Don’t forget we continue to offer FREE Safe and Well visits

These are visits where we come to your home, talk about fire safety and check you have working smoke alarms. If you don't have smoke alarms or not sure if you have enough for your property we will fit these, free of charge. Please visit the County Council website to request a visit: www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/ west-sussex-fire-and-rescue-service/ home-fire-safety/safe-and-well-visit.

Twitter: @Station49Fire

Facebook: Billingshurst Fire Station

Dan Game, Billingshurst Fire Station

Easter Spot the Difference

Solution on page 41

Photo: no home should be without life-saver smoke alarms

One in six motorists break the speed limit in Billingshurst

According to a speed survey carried out on Thursday 23rd February, 2023 by the local Billingshurst Community Speedwatch, one in six motorists were recorded as travelling at 36 mph or more in a 30 mph speed restricted area.

This chimes at a time when Billingshurst Speedwatch is making a special appeal for more volunteers. Speedwatch is an initiative of the Billingshurst Parish Council in collaboration with Sussex Police and is led by Group Coordinator Eric Bonner, a road safety specialist.

Eric said, “We only have just a small number of Speedwatch volunteers at present and we try to cover all the speed sites in Billingshurst. We monitor the speed of local traffic at least once and sometimes twice a week, but with so many sites and having so few volunteers means we are spread a bit thin.”

Eric went on to say, “Speed watch operators are not law enforcers, but rather road safety officers. Whenever someone is recorded as driving in excess of the speed limit they are kindly advised by letter to comply with the law in the interests of road safety. Motorists are only sent an advice letter if they exceed the limit by 10% plus 2 mph. In a 30 speed limit they will therefore only be contacted if they drive over 35 mph, and in a 40 speed limit if they drive above 46 mph.”

Eric pointed out that speed was a regularly shown to be a causation factor in the vast majority of accidents resulting in serious and fatal injuries. He said, “The tragedy is that serious injury accidents often result in life-long mobility problems resulting in restrictions to the daily activities we take for granted, such as walking to the shops, jogging and cycling. Recurring pain and discomfort is often an unwanted life-long companion following a serious accident, and no amount of insurance compensation can provide sufficient reparation for the permanent loss of total fitness and comfort.”

Billingshurst Community Speedwatch is one of several community safety initiatives, promoted and delivered by the parish council with the help of the Neighbourhood Wardens.

Further volunteers are needed and anyone who can spare just one hour a month is invited to contact the group administrator for further information, telephone: 07768 081745.

Information on Community Speedwatch UK can be found at www.communityspeedwatch.org

Michael Morley, Group Administrator

Billingshurst Community Speed Watch

Loxwood Village

Fete

& Fun Dog Show 2023

The eagerly awaited and extremely popular Loxwood Village Fete and Fun Dog Show will take place at North Hall, Loxwood on Saturday 3rd June starting at 11am until 4pm.

Our team of volunteers are beavering away in the background organising attractions and events that will ensure we hold a very successful fun day out for all the family. Our aim is to ensure that the day is attractive to families and will not cost them an arm and a leg. To ensure that this happens, we try as much as possible, to give children some free attractions. This year it will include the Bouncy Castle, Punch & Judy, Magic Show and a colouring competition, along with free entry for everybody to the Show.

During the day we will be hosting many activities, demonstrations and attractions such as a Fun Dog Show, Slinfold Concert Band, Ukelele Band, The North Singers, Tug of War, Zumba Demonstration and VMA Dance Demonstration.

As well as all these attractions there will be our usual Licenced Bar, Barbecue, Teas, Side Shows, Stalls, Kick a Goal, Renegades Archery, The Secret Garden Animal Rescue, Wisborough Green Bee Keepers, Tombola, Grand Draw, Cake Stall and Ice Creams.

Make a note of the date in your diary as this Village Fete is one of the best in the area and you and your family will not want to miss it. Graham Moore

What’s On – April

Every Mon Billingshurst Men’s Shed. We currently meet at the Billingshurst scout hut in Lower Station Road. 10am to noon. Part of the Men’s Shed movement, we are a group of men AND women who meet to talk, drink tea & coffee, make and repair things and plan the creation of our permanent home in the village. Contact David Ambrose, Secretary, tel: (01403) 786284 or e-mail: billimensshed@outlook.com

Every MonKnit & Natter. Billingshurst Library. 10.30am-midday. Open to anyone that likes to knit, crochet, sew and chat! Meet new friends, swap tips and ideas. No need to book. All ages and abilities welcome. Further info: drop in or call Bev at Billingshurst Library on (01403) 783145

Every Mon Horsham Matters Hub on the Move Foodbank. Billingshurst Library car park, 10-11.30am

Every MonTable Tennis. St Mary’s Room, East St, Billingshurst. 2-4pm. A sociable group for all ages. Includes tea & biscuits normally. Suggested donation to church funds £2 per session. Tony, tel: (01403) 783496

Every MonBOOSTfit Horsham. The Forest School, Comptons Lane, RH13 5NT. Judgement & pressure free fitness for all. Clare Lawton, tel: 07983 976 601 or e-mail: clareboostfit@outlook.com. www.boostfit.com

Every MonChair Yoga. Kelsey Hall, Ifold. 2.15-3pm. For those who want to feel the benefits of yoga, but from a chair! All welcome. £5. Kim, tel: 07780 439155 or e-mail whiterosechairyoga@outlook.com

Every MonSeniors’ Coffee Morning. St Mary’s Room, Billingshurst. 10.30am to 12 noon. £3 a head. Transport available. Tel: (01403) 786706

Every Mon,Shipley Men’s Shed. Shipley football ground off Dragon’s Lane. Part of the international Men’s Shed Tues & Weds organisation. For men interested in woodwork or wish to spend time with like-minded, local chaps. www.HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org. Tel: Philip, 07786 070939 or email: info@HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org

Every MonWisborough Green Short Mat Bowls Club. Village Hall. Mons 2.30-4.30pm, Weds 1.30-3.30pm. & Weds New members & visitors welcome. £2.50 (includes Tea/Coffee & biscuits). Trial session free for newcomers. Further information: www.wisboroughgreen.org or contact Keith Carter on 01403 700502

Every MonHorsham Bridge Club. Face-to-Face 1.30pm. 22a East Street, Horsham, RH12 1HL. Graham & Weds Walker, tel: (01403) 734156. www.horshambridge.co.uk

Every Mon Clubbercise with Hayley. Mon: Dial Post Village Hall, RH13 8NH; Thurs: St Gabriel’s Church Hall, & Thurs Billingshurst. 7.45-8.30pm. Aerobic exercise class for all fitness levels, 16 and over. Darkened room with flashing disco lights and music (90s to now). Pre-bookings only: bookwhen.com/clubbercisehayleym. Updates: facebook.com/clubbercisewithhayley

Every Tues Billingshurst Short Mat Bowls. Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre. 2-4pm. £4 per session. Come and try a game. It’s great fun with friendly people in a small club. Further details please contact Alan Barnes, tel: (01403) 783721

Every Tues Billingshurst Choral Society Practice. Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre. 7.30-9.45pm. New members welcome. Tel: Keith Paul on 07989 412997

Every TuesStitch & Knit. Six Bells, Billingshurst. 7-9.30pm. Welcoming & helpful, just bring your project & make new friends. No fees. Sarah, tel: 07817 699865 (leave message)

Every Tues Slinfold Concert Band rehearsal. Slinfold Village Hall from 7.30-9.30pm. Brass, woodwind and percussion players all welcome. www.slinfoldconcertband.org

Every TuesWalking Football. 10-11.30am. Shipley football ground off Dragon’s Lane (Holbrook Club in mid-Winter). Followed by refreshments. Men & women welcome. www.HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org. Tel: Philip, 07786 070939 or email: info@HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org

Every TuesBOOSTfit Billingshurst. Billingshurst Leisure Centre, RH14 9RY. Judgement & pressure free fitness for all. Clare Lawton, tel: 07983 976 601 or e-mail: clareboostfit@outlook.com. www.boostfit.com

Every Tues Drop in Baby Zone! St Mary’s Room, East St, Billingshurst. 1.30-3pm. Space to meet other parents/carers & their babies (under 1yr. Free. Booking not required. Email: Emma babies@stmarysbillingshurst.org

Every Tues Preschool Ballet and street dance classes. Jubilee Fields, Billingshurst. VMA Dance run fun, friendly & Thurs classes for preschool children. Free trial then £4pw pre-booked. 07879 773705 www.vmadance.co.uk

Every Tues Horsham Bridge Club. Online BBO 7pm & Face-to-Face 7.15pm. 22a East Sreet, Horsham RH12 1HL & Thurs Graham Walker, tel: (01403) 734156. www.horshambridge.co.uk

Every Tues Pétanque Club. Shipley Football Ground, 10.15 for 10.30am start (*spring/summer/autumn, Friday, 6.30pm) & Fri* Coffee after. Equipment provided. All ages and abilities. www.HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org. Tel: Russell, 07803 259190 or email: info@HorshamShipleyCommunityProject.org

Every WedsHorsham Accordion Band. Practises in Slinfold Chapel from 7.30-9.30pm. Varied repertoire. Band Leader Mags Fisher tel: (01403) 790717 or email: magsfisher@btinternet.com

Every WedsThe Millennium Bridge Club. Storrington Village Hall, 1.30-4.30pm. All abilities. Please contact: Barbara: (01903) 741365 or daisy.campling@btinternet.com

Every WedsLine dancing. St Gabriel’s Church Hall. Improvers 6-7.15pm, intermediates 7.15-9.30pm. Details from Maureen, tel: 07774 828282

Every WedsBillingshurst Bell Ringing practice. St Mary’s Church, Billingshurst. 7.30-9.15pm. New learners and visitors welcome, just turn up. For information email Kathy at kathyfitzp@hotmail.co.uk

Every Weds The Leconfield Singers. United Reformed Church, Petworth. 8-10pm. Mixed voice non-audition community choir. Newcomers welcome. More details and term times see www.leconfieldsingers.co.uk

Every WedsBillingshurst Rock Choir. Primary School. 7.30-9pm, term times. No experience required. A friendly choir singing upbeat pop, rock and Motown. Book a FREE taster session at www.rockchoir.com

Every WedsLoxwood Bridge for Fun. North Hall, Loxwood. 2pm. For more information contact Gina Moore, tel: (01403) 751722 or e-mail: ginamoore@btopenworld.com

Every 2ndBilliUke: Billingshurst’s Own Ukulele Jam! The Six Bells, 7 for 7.30pm start. If you already have a & 4th Weds ukulele, or are thinking about getting one, please come along and join us. It’s a fun couple of hours and you also get to make new friends from the village and beyond. www.billiuke.com

Every ThursStitch & Knit. 10am-12.30pm. We rove round local cafés & car share, lifts may be possible. Welcoming & helpful, just bring your project. No fees. Sarah, tel: 07817 699865 (leave message)

Every Thurs Clubbercise with Hayley. St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Billingshurst. 7.45-8.30pm. Aerobic exercise class for all fitness levels16 and over. Darkened room with flashing disco lights and music (90s to now). Pre-bookings

07762 767084, editor@villagetweet.co.uk

only: bookwhen.com/clubbercisehayleym. Latest updates: facebook.com/clubbercisewithhayley

Every Thurs Wildlife walkabouts. RSPB Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve, Wiggonholt, RH20 2EL. 10am-12 noon. £8 per person (£2.50 for RSPB members). (01798) 875851. www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks

Every Thurs HDC Health Walk. Billingshurst (2). Meet 11am, Library car park, Billingshurst (TQ086260). Parking free with annnual permit or 75p per hour. 2¼ miles, flat, easy. 1 hour. Chris (01403) 782745. All HDC walks are guided, free and sociable. Led by trained volunteers; no need to book, just turn-up

Every Thurs Crafts and Natter group. The Chapel, Spy Lane, Loxwood, RH14 0SQ. 11am-3pm

Every ThursBoard Games for Adults. Billingshurst Library. 2-3pm. Open to all. Games include chess, scrabble, backgammon and more! Further info: drop in or call Bev at Billingshurst Library on (01403) 783145

Every 1st & ‘We Care’ meeting for carers and people with dementia. Glebe Centre, Ewhurst, GU6 7PY. 10.30am3rd Thurs 12.30. Refreshments, friendship, chat & activities. Carol: 07775 865125 or carol@highedser.co.uk

Every Fri VMA Dance classes for children 2-18yrs. Jubilee Fields, Billingshurst. Classes in Ballet, Street Dance & Contemporary. Free Trial available then £5pw pre-booked. 07879 773705 www.vmadance.co.uk

Every Fri Blue Idol Open Day. Oldhouse Lane, Coolham, RH13 8QP. 10am-1pm. March-November. Visit this historic building and discover local history. www.blueidol.org. Tel: (01403) 740039

Every FriBillingshurst Bowling Club. Just behind Station Road Gardens welcomes you to come and try the 28 Apr- game of Lawn Bowls. No previous experience required, from 6 pm to 7.30 pm with refreshments after, end Sep just turn up or call Barry on 07858 407537 or email: billingshurstbowlsclub@gmail.com for more details

Every SatIndoor table top sale and market. Ansell’s Yard, Kirdford Road, Wisborough Green, RH14 0DD. 10am-2pm. No entrance fee. Tables £5 (must be pre-booked). Tel: (01403) 700633 or 07798 941940

Every Sat Dempsey School of Irish Dancing for children aged 5+. Billingshurst Community Centre. 9 & 10am. Nicola, e-mail: dempseyirishdance@gmail.com

Every SatBoard Games for Families. Billingshurst Library. 11am-1pm. Drop in to play board games with other families. Further info: drop in or call Bev at Billingshurst Library on (01403) 783145

Every SatAmities Boules Club. Foresters Arms, Kirdford. New members always welcome. Sats: 10.45 for & Weds 11am start, finish 1.30pm. Weds (summer only, weather permitting): 2pm. David, tel: (01483) 278346

Every Sun Sussex Sunday Walkers offer led walks every Sunday throughout the year. For more information please view our website www.sussexsundaywalkers.org.uk or email wealdmen@hotmail.com

Every SunThe Emmanuel Fellowship meet every Sunday at ‘The Chapel’, Spy Lane, Loxwood, RH14 0SQ. 10.30am for about an hour with refreshments afterwards. www.emmanuelfellowship.co.uk

SPACE IS TIGHT IN THE WHAT’S ON PAGES. IF ANYONE HAS TRIED TO ATTEND ANY OF THE REGULAR ENTRIES (ABOVE) AND FOUND THEM TO BE NO LONGER ACTIVE PLEASE LET VILLAGE TWEET KNOW

1 Apr Quiz Night Fundraiser. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7pm. Come as a team of 6-8 or sign up as an individual and we will place you in a team. Proceeds support Cranleigh Arts and Phylis Tuckwell Hospice£15 inc Fish & Chip Supper: (01483) 278000 or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

2 Apr Indoor Antiques Market & Collectors Sale. Ansell’s Yard, Kirdford Road, Wisborough Green, RH14 0DD. 10am-2pm. No entrance fee. Tables available £5 (must be pre-booked), also storage units to let, £25 pw. Telephone (01403) 700633 or 07798 941940

4 Apr Billingshurst Ladies Who Latte group. Sir Roger Tichborne, Alfold. Every 1st Tuesday, 9.45-11.45am. Networking group for female business owners. Share, support, learn & have fun with other entrepreneurs. £5

4 Apr The Arts Society West Sussex lecture by Imogen Corrigan: ‘Charlemagne, the first Carolingian Emperor’. Fittleworth Village Hall. Doors open 1.40, lecture 2pm followed by tea and coffee. Visitors welcome, £7. Tel: (01903) 411086 or email: jackiebuckler@sky.com www.theartssocietywestsussex.org

4 Apr Pulborough Computer Club Evening. Pulborough Village Hall. 7.30pm. (1st Tues except Jan) An eve with a friendly group with varying levels of IT knowledge & skills. No need to book. Members £3, guests £5

5 Apr Billingshurst Beck WI Talk. Stanley Room, Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre, Roman Way, RH14 9QW. 7.30pm. Non-WI members welcome, £4 including refreshments. For further information tel: (01444) 483682 or email: billingshurstbeckwi@wsfi.co.uk

5 Apr Kids’ Craft – Fantastic Fish. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 9.30am & 10.30am. Kids’ Craft will be run by teachers Claire and Emma; sometimes together, sometimes taking turns. Tickets £8 per session: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

5 Apr The Arts Society – South Downs lecture by Mark Cottle: ‘The Bayeaux Tapestry’ Fittleworth Village Hall. 10.45am Visitors welcome, £7, contact Jane Allison, tel: (01798) 813314 or www.theartssocietysouthdowns.org.uk

6 Apr Parish Council Planning & Environmental Committee meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7.30pm

6 Apr Live Music: Open Mic Night. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7.30pm. We encourage all musicians from opera to rap to take the mic. The evening is supported by a house band and hosted by Nigel Sanctuary, a local musician. Free entry, e-mail jackie@cranleigharts.org to book a slotwww.cranleighartscentre.org

6 Apr Wisborough Green Evening WI. Wisborough Green Village Hall. 7.45pm. Every first Thursday. Visitors welcome for taster session. Please contact wisboroughgreenWI@wsfwi.co.uk for our latest calendar of activities, and membership details

6 Apr Reading Friends. Billingshurst Library. 10.30-11.30am. Are you interested in meeting new friends, having a good chat and sharing your love of books? Everyone welcome, just turn up. Tel: (01403) 783145

8 Apr Billingshurst Dementia Café. United Reformed Church Hall, Second Saturday of every month, from 10am-12pm. Please join us for tea, coffee and cake. All are welcome

10 Apr Easter Egg Hunt. Women’s Hall. 11am-12.30pm. Children up to 11. Refreshments. See page 9

10 Apr Lions Club Car Boot Sale. Six Bells car park (off Library car park). 9am-12 noon. £10 cars, £15 vans (no traders). To book contact Sandy Duck, tel: (01403) 786146 or e-mail: sandyduck@btinternet.com

11 Apr Wakoos Easter Egg Treasure Hunt. Women’s Hall, Billingshurst. For children under 11. See March’s Village Tweet, page 10

12 Apr Parish Council Annual Parish meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7.30pm

12 Apr Messy Church! Billingshurst Community Centre. 3.45-5.45pm. Billingshurst churches welcome families to have fun with games, crafts, singing and stories. All children must be accompanied by an

adult. Sit-down meal, donation. Contact Beth at St Mary’s for more information, e-mail: familyworker@stmarysbillingshurst.org. www.messychurch.org.uk

13 Apr Billingshurst WI: ‘Come and enjoy a game of Bingo’ Community Centre, Roman Way. 2.30pm. Speakers, hobby groups, outings. Visitors welcome. Secretary, tel: (01403) 257531 / 07714 212637

13 Apr

Billingshurst Local History Society Talk by BLHS Chair Duncan Reynolds: ‘Life in Billingshurst in the Past’. Billingshurst Community and Conference Centre, 7.30pm. Membership £20 per annum. Visitors £5 per meeting. Ms G Knight, tel: (01403) 451401, email: g.j.s.knight@btinternet.com

13 Apr Billingshurst Weald Probus Club men’s group meeting. Stanley Room, Community Centre. 10 for 10.15am12 noon. Every 2nd Thurs except Dec. Alan Galer, tel: 07956 443228 or email: alan.galer@btinternet.com

13-15 Apr

14 Apr

Billingshurst Dramatic Society: ‘Beck & Calling’. The Women’s Hall. 7.45pm. Tickets: £10 from billingshurstdramaticsociety,com or Mansell McTaggart. See March’s Village Tweet, page 11

Billingshurst and District Wine and Beer Circle meeting. Circle meets 2nd Friday (except August) at St Gabriel’s Hall, East Street, 8pm. New members welcome. Contact Chris 07790 762052 or Linda 07806 327917. Email: edwinstevenson51@gmail.com. www.billingshurstwineandbeercircle.com

14 Apr Loxwood Movie Night: ‘Living’. North Hall, RH14 0SF. 7 for 7.30 start. £5 on the door. Bar

14, 28 Apr Citizens Advice Billingshurst – Drop-in Sessions. Billingshurst Library, between 10am and 1pm. Offering help and advice for cost of living, benefits, debt, housing, employment and much more.

14 Apr-4 May Photography Exhibition: ‘Our View’ Cranleigh Arts Centre. 10am-4.30pm. Photography from a female perspective by 6 ladies who came together via Cranleigh Camera Club. The club has been established for many years with regular meetings, workshops, competitive events, an annual exhibition and outside visits. Free entry. www.cranleighcameraclub.co.uk

15 Apr Junktique Collectables & Clutter Sale. West Chiltington Village Hall, Mill Road, RH20 2PZ. 10.15 am-12.30 pm. Cakes/Produce/Plant stall. Refreshments. Sellers: 9.15am, tables £12 (must book by 13th April). £1 (U12 free). For more information, tel: (01798) 813608, 07803 658377, (01798) 813712

15 Apr Macmillan Coffee Morning. Billingshurst Conference & Community Centre. 10am-12 noon. Join us for coffee and cake. We will be selling our delicious homemade cakes and preserves, Jill’s crafts and homemade cards. There will also be tombola and hamper raffle

15 Apr The Leconfield Singers: Purcell’s ‘Dido & Aeneas’ and more. Arundel Cathedral. 7pm. With English Philharmonia. Tickets £15-£30 (U18 half price) from www.leconfieldsingers.co.uk/events

16 Apr Billingshurst Artisan Market. Six Bells car park. 9.30am-1.30pm. Local foods and crafts. See page 9

17 Apr Billingshurst Lions Club Meeting. Sports Pavilion, Jubilee Fields, Billingshurst. 7.30pm. For information about the Club contact Viv Diggens on (01403) 752968 or call in at the Lions Bookshop, Jengers Mead

17 Apr Laughter Yoga Club. Unitarian Hall (side door), Billingshurst, RH14 9QS. (Park Lakers Mead.) 11am to 12.00noon. £6. Boosts seratonine and nervous systems & improves wellbeing! Non-profit-making club. All welcome. Contact Linda, tel: 07806.327917, email: lstevenson201854@gmail.com

18 Apr Loxwood Jazz Club. Village Hall. With candle-lit tables and a licensed bar, it has a very intimate atmosphere with international standard jazz. Tickets £15 from Peter Winney, tel: (01403) 752377

18 Apr St Mary’s Guild Members’ Meeting. St Mary’s Room, East Street, Billingshurst. 10.30am. We are a friendly women’s group and we welcome visitors. Beryl Peacock (01403) 782835

19 Apr Parish Council Working Practices Committee meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7.30pm

20 Apr Barns Green & Itchingfield Women’s Institute Meeting. Barns Green Village Hall. 2.30pm followed by tea. New members welcome. Meetings 3rd Thurs of the month. For more information contact Annette Relph (01403) 732580

21 Apr Loxwood Community Gardens Charity Talk by Ben Pope: ‘In aid of Perennial’. North Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets £7 tel: (01403) 751722 or e-mail: ginamoore@btopenworld.com. See page 36

21 Apr

Macmillan Film night. ‘A Man Called Otto’. Billingshurst Conference & Community Centre. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Refreshments, raffle and Macmillan stall. Tickets £7 from www.touringcinema.com or Austens Home Hardware, 48-52 High Street or Terri Ashpool, tel: 07711 470635

22 Apr Table Top Sale. Alfold Hall. 10am-2pm. Free. Refreshments. To book a table (£20 per table, £15 if using your own) e-mail: info@alfoldhall.co.uk or telephone Adrian Erricker (01403) 753102

22 Apr Pulborough Village Market. (4th Saturday except December: 2nd Saturday.) Pulborough Village Hall, Swan View, RH20 2BF. 9am-12 noon. Fresh produce, bread, local honey, plants, local crafts and much more. Café serving a full English breakfast, tea/coffee and cakes. Free entry. Please like us on Facebook. Market Coordinator Terri Ashpool, tel: 07711 470635, e-mail: terriashpool@uwclub.net

22 & 28 Apr Billingshurst Bowling Club. Just behind Station Road Gardens welcomes you to come and try the game of Lawn Bowls. No previous experience required. Opening Saturday 22nd April from 2pm, thereafter every Friday, April-Sept (commences 28th April). from 6 pm to 7.30 pm with refreshments after, just turn up or call Barry on 07858 407537 or email: billingshurstbowlsclub@gmail.com for more details

23 Apr ABC Animal Sanctuary Spring Fair. Juggs Lane, West Chiltington, RH20 2JU. 12-4pm. Fun for all the family. Meet the animals, groom a pony, face painting, refreshments, music, stalls. Entry: £5 per person, children under 14 free

23 Apr North Singers: ‘Songs for All Seasons’ North Hall. 3.30pm. £10: (01403) 752999. See page 23

24 Apr

Macmillan Film night. ‘A Man Called Otto’ Pulborough Village Hall. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Refreshments, raffle and Macmillan stall. Tickets £7 from www.touringcinema.com or Pulborough Village Hall or Terri Ashpool, tel: 07711 470635 or on the door (subject to availability)

24 Apr Billingshurst Community Partnership: ‘Conversation with Crafting’. United Reform Church Hall. 1.30-3pm. A warm welcome to anayone who wants to enjoy a friendly conversation along with a craft activity. Free. For further information contact June Perks, e-mail: june.perks@btinternet.com

25 Apr Horsham Wellbeing 12-week weight management programme: WOW (Weight off Workshop). Pulborough Medical Group, Spiro Close, RH20 1FG. 6-7.30pm. Free. Spaces limited, contact the Wellbeing team, tel: (01403) 215111 or e-mail: info@horshamdistrictwellbeing.org.uk

26 Apr Parish Council Billingshurst Centre & F&GP Committees meetings. Billingshurst Centre. 7 & 7.30pm

27 Apr Sing for Pleasure. (4th Thursday except December: 3rd Thursday.) Billingshurst Community Centre. 3.00-4.30pm. We are a friendly, informal group who enjoy a sing-along. If you are a lady or gentleman in the more mature age group, even if you think you can’t sing, we’d love you to join us for an enjoyable afternoon. £3, includes tea and biscuits

28 Apr Billingshurst Horticultural Society outing to Arundel Castle. Contact Mrs S Wells, tel: (01403) 784159

29 Apr Stand up: Patrick Monahan. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7.30pm. What's wrong with being a misfit? As seen recently on BBC One’s The One Show and ITV’s Loose Women. Tickets £15: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

29 Apr Billingshurst Choral Society Opera Gala. Fishers Farm Theatre. 7.30pm. More info and tickets: www.billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk See page 11

30 Apr-1 May Fittleworth Garden Trail 2023. 14

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