Village Tweet - June 2023

Welcome to the June issue, packed with lots of fun summer events.

Not only is there the Billingshurst Show & Carnival Procession on 25th June (see ad on back cover) but also numerous fairs, fetes and other outdoor events. We have a feature on barbecuing (page 26). Yes, it must be summer!

If you run a company or organisation and have a vacancy, why not place an ad in our Recruitment section? Six vacancies advertised this month (pages 34/35).

Grahame

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Lions Pay Tribute To David Thompson BEM

Billingshurst & District Lions Club members were sorry to hear that David Thompson had died on Friday, 24th March at the age of 93.

David and his wife Anne moved to live in Wales in June 2020 to be near his family, but sadly Anne died shortly afterwards. David had played an active part in village life for many years, joining the Lions when he retired, soon becoming involved in many aspects of the club, especially as Treasurer and its President in 2009/2010.

One of those members first encountered David many years ago when they were both working at Sun Alliance, where he says, “David was in charge of the Despatch Department, ruling his team with a rod of soft metal, working efficiently and diligently, leading by example, never flustered, always fighting hard for his team”.

Outside work, David was involved with school sailing camps being a good friend of the late Ken Thyer, Junior School Headmaster; David bringing along his dinghy, which he kept hoisted aloft in his garage and being remembered for playing his rendition of ‘Red River Valley’ with his guitar!

David was also a Special Constable for many years, coming into contact with the Lions when they ran the Firework Nights, enjoying the odd stray burger that came his way! When he joined Billingshurst Lions he brought his meticulous skills to the club.

Being very practical, David made many items for the club, including a large substantial booth for outside events. At Christmas, he organised assembly of Santa’s Sleigh carrying a massive decorated Christmas tree, lowered every night for

backing into his garage, which David ran as the centre of operations. When the sleigh collapsed, he was very much involved in producing the replacement ‘Flying Bedstead’ for sitting on the roof of a car. It was David who provided the music each year for the Royal British Legion’s Remembrance Sunday parades.

David was very proud to receive the British Empire Medal in recognition of his many years service in the Billingshurst area.

Finally, David will also be remembered for looking after the Mobility Scooters that Billingshurst Lions have available for free loan to those who could benefit from having one. To check availability, please contact Joan Bobker in the first instance on tel: 0845 833 5965 or e-mail: joanmike38@hotmail.com for an Application Form for consideration. Free safety awareness training can be arranged. 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: A smiling David after assembling Santa’s new ‘Flying Bedstead’ on the roof of a car, kindly loaned by Station Garage at Broadbridge Heath, for Billingshurst Lions Christmas Carol tours around the villages

New premium sparkling rosé from Billingshurst

Boco locally available

The Horsham Cellar

Horsham Carfax

Joanna’s Boutique Tea Room

Storrington

The Billi Tap

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Pretty Things

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The Chequers Inn

Rowhook

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New House Farm

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The Fox Inn

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Kissingate Brewery

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Random Hall Hotel

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Looking Outwards

If you were asked to list the top three presents you have ever received, what would they be? Perhaps a handcrafted wonder that someone spent time and care to create? A childhood gift that is still treasured into your adulthood. A piece of art that you never tire of. What springs to mind may not be an object. It could well be a gift from someone of a Birthday experience or anniversary treat. Shared time and memories.

Someone who cares about you often works out just what would bring you joy. There are those people who seem to always know when a cheering gift might make all the difference. It is not always big occasions when gifts are needed. That homebaked cake or bunch of flowers to bring a smile. That gift of time when you are invited to a shared meal or cup of tea. Thoughtfulness and bringing joy to others is a great goal in life. If you are a person who looks to encourage others, know what a wonderful difference you make. All of us

can do more to bring joy. The need for encouragement and a sense that others care about us is universal.

The Bible describes God who chooses to gift us with his presence and love daily in our lives. That sense of watchful, providing, and nurturing attention runs through the words of the Bible. Such an abundant love inspires us to live outward-looking lives within our communities. So many verses in the Bible remind us of the healthy way of life that gives to others.

New Year’s resolutions seem long forgotten now we are in June but how about setting a fresh challenge of bringing joy and thoughtfulness to as many people as you can! Billingshurst will be an even better place to be this summer!

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

New International Bible I Thessalonians 5 verse 11

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page 8

Summer Nectarine

Crumble METHOD

The taste of summer in a crumble

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan) Gas mark 4. Lightly grease a 23cm x 23cm (9x9-inch) square baking dish.

2. Prepare the fruit filling: Rinse the nectarines, cut them in half, remove the stones, and slice into 1cm thick wedges. Place the nectarine slices into a large mixing bowl.

3. Add the granulated sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the nectarines. Gently mix until the nectarine slices are coated evenly. Transfer the fruit mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Prepare the crumble topping: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain flour (and ground almonds if using), cubed butter, granulated sugar, rolled oats, and salt. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the nectarines in the baking dish, ensuring that the fruit is fully covered. Add some flaked almonds for texture.

6. Bake the nectarine crumble in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

7. Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool slightly for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy the nectarine crumble warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche.

Note: If nectarines are not available, you can substitute with an equal weight of peaches or plums.

Preparation time: 20 minutes. Cooking time: 35-40 minutes. Serves: 6

INGREDIENTS

For the fruit filling:

6 ripe nectarines (approximately 800g)

50g granulated sugar

1 tbsp cornflour

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the crumble topping

150g plain flour (or 100g plain flour and 50g ground almonds)

100g cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

75g granulated or demerara sugar

50g rolled oats

1/4 tsp salt

Flaked almonds

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Puzzle on page 7

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CHRIST’S HOSPITAL CHORAL SOCIETY presents

The King’s Music

A summer concert of coronation music and known favourites of King Charles

including

Handel - Zadok The Priest, My Heart Is Inditing Parry - I Was Glad, My Soul There is a Country & pieces by Vaughan-Williams, Stainer, Howells etc.

Conductor Verity Bramson

Accompanist Jon Lee

Saturday, 17th June 2023 7.30 p.m. The Chapel, Christ’s Hospital

Tickets now available from Christ’s Hospital Box Office 01403 247434 or at the door

Tickets £12.50 : concessions £10 : children £5

your

The current parking disc expires on 30 June 2023

• Annual Parking Discs are only £18 fixed price for the year

• Additional discs are £11 per year with a maximum of three discs per household

The disc entitles you to park in the following car parks:

• Billingshurst: Six Bells and Library Car Park

• Henfield: Coopers Way and Library Car Park

• Pulborough: Lower Street

• Roffey: Godwin Way

• Steyning: Fletchers Croft, Newmans Gardens and High Street

• Storrington: Library Car Park (North Street), Old Mill Square and Monastery Lane

To purchase your Annual Parking Disc and for more information please visit www.horsham.gov.uk/annualparkingdisc

Why Weight Train?

Weights should be a crucial part of your workout regimen. For older adults strength training is almost more important than cardio because preserving muscle becomes more important than losing fat as you age.

In every decade, starting in our mid-30s, we lose a percentage of muscle, which affects our metabolism, balance, and also the ability to brace ourself in the event of an injury. Weight training helps us to build more muscle.

In addition to building strength, lifting weights has other benefits:

Weight loss – Lifting weights helps you build more muscle, which can help you burn more calories. Muscles are metabolically active, burning calories even when you’re not exercising.

Bone health – As we age, our bones become more brittle and weaker. This is especially the case for postmenopausal women who have lower oestrogen, the hormone responsible for maintaining bone mass. Lifting weights helps you build bone mineral density through Wolff’s Law, which states that bone can grow in response to forces that are placed upon it. Strength training involves muscles contracting against the bones

VENUE CHANGE!

The Women’s Hall, High Street, Billingshurst, RH14 9LQ

Wednesday 7th June 2023 at 7.30pm

Play writing and the Beck sisters - behind the scenes

Following the Billingshurst Dramatic Society’s production of ‘Beck & Calling’ in April, playwright Ted Gooda shares her research into local suffragette sisters, Ellen and Edith Beck, who bequeathed the Women’s Hall and Mothers’ Garden to the women of the village one hundred years ago.

Ted will take us behind the scenes - both in terms of the play writing process and the other discoveries she made about the Beck sisters that didn’t make it into the play.

Free to members of the Billingshurst Beck WI or non-members £4 including refreshments. Contact us billingshurstbeckwi@wsfwi.co.uk

The WI provides women with fun and friendship, plus the chance to learn new skills, get involved within the community and take part in a wide range of activities.

they’re attached to. This force helps improve bone density over time.

Mood boost – Had a grueling day at work and need to release some tension? Pick up those weights. Like any form of exercise, strength training can enhance your mood by releasing feel-good hormones called endorphins.

Posture – If you have a desk job, it’s easy to develop poor posture and a limited range of motion in the shoulders, which should be the most flexible joints in the body. Lifting weights can help reverse this by opening up the chest, strengthening the back muscles, and improving freedom of movement.

Reduction of back pain –There’s no one reason for back pain, but muscular imbalances, like weak knees and an unstable core, can contribute, among other things. Most people think aches and pain are due to strains but sometimes it’s a result of bad biomechanics. Your muscles work in a kinetic chain, so if there’s a weak link, it can often manifest into a bigger problem in different areas of the body. By building total-body strength, you can bypass most injuries.

Sarah Davey

All are Welcome to Join for Social Days Out

West Sussex Minibus is your local minibus service providing social outings and shopping trips for the community. They operate a friendly door-todoor service and offer a year-round schedule of excursions with trip fares set with affordability in mind. Based here in Billingshurst, they welcome residents from the surrounding area, which includes The Haven, Coneyhurst and Adversane. There is a separate and dedicated service for residents of Wisborough Green and Kirdford.

Small minibuses seating up to 9 passengers are used making for a friendly and informal service. All age groups are welcome with assistance on hand should help be needed getting on and off the minibus or carrying shopping to your house.

Alongside their usual schedule of shopping trips, here are just a small selection of their up-and-coming excursions: -

– Lunch at the Unicorn Inn, Heyshot (near Midhurst). Pick-up from 10.30 am, with a leisurely lunch overlooking the rolling hills and home by mid-afternoon. 6th June / £8 fare.

– Eastbourne day trip. Pick-up from 9.00 am. A popular trip to this seaside resort with time for a relaxing lunch. Depending on passenger demand, a stop may be made at Paradise Park Garden Centre (near Newhaven). 21st June / £12 fare.

– Day trip to the “The Watercress Line”. Pick-up from 9.15 am. With a coffee stop en route, your scenic train journey starts at New Arlesford, travelling through Ropley and Medstead before arriving in Alton. A delicious ploughman’s is served aboard whilst you sit back, chat and take in the scenery before returning to Arlesford. You will be home in time for tea. 30th June / £42, including rail fare.

We look forward to seeing you on one of our trips soon. Annual Membership is just £10, plus a per-trip fare, or Day Membership of £1.

Billingshurst Schedule June

Horsham & Sainsbury’s trips on Thursdays 1st, 8th, 15th and 29th June at 9.00am Tesco Broadbridge Heath shopping trips on Thursdays 8th and 22nd June at 1.30pm

Rates: www.villagetweet.co.uk

Judith Dandy

Independent Funeral Director

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.

Church View, Billingshurst Road

Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0DY

e: judith@dandelionfarewells.com

t: 01403 701001 m: 07769 336022

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Walking wins

Improve your mental and physical health with a walk

With the cost of living escalating rapidly our collective mental health is struggling. Gym memberships are dropping as people try to cut costs, and as a result our physical health could be suffering too.

Enter the humble walk! Walking is a simple yet effective form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. It’s a low-impact activity that can help you improve your physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. What’s not to like?

Cardiovascular health – Walking is an excellent way to raise your heart rate and improve the health of your entire circulatory system. Regular walking can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions by improving blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels.

Weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight –Walking is an effective way to burn calories and promote weight loss or maintenance. Walking at a brisk pace for 30 minutes a day can burn up to 200 calories, depending on your weight and intensity level. Over time, this can add up to significant weight loss and improved overall health.

Muscle and bone strength – Walking is a weightbearing activity that can help strengthen muscles and bones, particularly in the lower body. Regular walking can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, as well as improve balance and help prevent falls in older adults.

Stress and anxiety – Walking is also an excellent

way to reduce stress and anxiety, as it releases endorphins that promote feelings of well-being and happiness. Walking in nature or other peaceful settings can be particularly beneficial for reducing stress and promoting mental relaxation. Cognitive function – Walking has been shown to improve brain health by increasing blood flow to the area and promoting the growth of new cells. Regular walking has been linked to improved memory, attention, and overall brain function, particularly in older adults.

Accessibility and cost – One of the greatest benefits of walking as an exercise is that it is accessible and inexpensive. It requires no special equipment or training and can be done virtually anywhere and at any time. This makes it an ideal exercise option for people of all ages, incomes, and fitness levels. Sociability – Walking alone or with a dog can be very restorative, but it’s even better with a friend. Walking side-by-side seems to facilitate the flow of conversation and pauses feel less awkward than when you’re sitting face-to-face. Research shows that friendships which persist into old age help to protect against cognitive decline.

So, whether you are looking to improve your cardiovascular health, maintain a healthy weight, improve your mental health, or reduce the risk of age-related memory loss, regular walking can help you achieve your goals. So why not lace up your trainers or walking boots and start reaping the benefits of this wonderful exercise today?

Tracey Anderson

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A Good Read

June’s selection from book reviewer Tash Donovan

Milkman – Anna Burns

I will preface this by saying that Milkman, the 2018 Man Booker Prize-winning novel by Anna Burns, is an excellent but challenging read. It deals with resilience and resistance set in the heart of a divided community. Burns weaves a captivating story centred around an 18year-old protagonist, known only as ‘middle sister’, and the community in which she lives. The novel is set in an unnamed city, though it bears a strong resemblance to Belfast during the Troubles. It grapples with the complexities of political conflict, societal expectations, and the power of rumour and gossip.

As ‘middle sister’ navigates her life, she attracts the advances of the eponymous Milkman, a middleaged paramilitary figure who begins to stalk her. The novel's portrayal of the menacing and intrusive nature of the Milkman’s pursuit encapsulates the larger oppressive atmosphere of the community. The pervasive sense of paranoia and suspicion is conveyed through the use of a first-person narrative, filled with intricate details, creating a vivid and visceral experience for the reader.

One of the challenges involves Burns’ use of stream of consciousness. Her prose is often dense and demanding, featuring long, sprawling sentences with minimal punctuation, a stylistic choice reflecting both the chaotic environment and the protagonist’s internal turmoil.

The most striking aspect of Milkman is the absence of proper names for characters and places. This lends a surreal-but-universal quality to the story, evoking many conflict-ridden societies. The novel explores the impact of gender, politics, and power on the individual, as well as the collective psyche of a community, often using humour so dark it might make the reader squirm.

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With its unflinching portrayal of the protagonist’s struggles and resilience, it serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity. While the novel’s challenging style may not appeal to all readers, those who persevere will be rewarded with an unforgettable and thoughtprovoking literary experience.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon – Kelly Barnhill

The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a captivating and enchanting Newbery Medal-winning novel. Set in a world of magic and wonder, it tells the story of Luna, a young girl unknowingly filled with powerful magic after being fed moonlight by the good witch Xan.

The novel follows Luna, Xan, a wise swamp monster named Glerk, and a tiny, talkative dragon called Fyrian as they navigate the complexities of Luna’s magical abilities and unravel the mysteries surrounding their world.

Barnhill’s lyrical prose and vivid world-building draws readers into the story, and the characters are both endearing and complex. The book is a delightful blend of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age, with a touch of darkness that lends depth to the narrative. It explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of knowledge, providing valuable lessons for both young and adult readers. The plot is intricately woven, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged throughout.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a beautifully written, heart-warming tale that effortlessly blends fantasy and reality. It will captivate readers of all ages, leaving them with a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the magic in their own lives.

Renegades fundraising is no running joke!

Despite nursing injuries, plucky Renegades mum Tracy-Anne competed in her first ever marathon and – in the long run –raised more than £1,000 to contribute to youth club funds.

Tracy-Anne says, “I was lucky enough to get a ballot place to run London in October 2022 but a stress fracture a month before the event put paid to my efforts. Passed fit this year I was determined to help the Renegades. So why have I chosen them? Well, they have made a huge difference to our lives. Although primarily youth work, the charity has been instrumental in helping us a family too.

“The COVID lockdown had far greater impact than anyone could have imagined, and this charity have taken our rather ‘broken’ family, got them back out in the world, given them new opportunities, supported, nurtured and encouraged them.

“We are eternally grateful to them and by fundraising I hoped to be able to give them the opportunity to offer even more! It was also the most amazing experience – a real carnival atmosphere.”

A big thank you to Tracy-Anne and to another fantastic backer of the club: the National Lottery,

whose continuing support has meant that we have been able to buy two drones at the request of the kids.

Gareth Miller, Group Leader, says, “The Renegades is forward thinking, so we know that the operation of drones is part of our collective future and has career opportunities for the kids. However, the right kind of drones are expensive, and fund-raising has enabled us to help the children develop tangible skills. As with the canoeing and archery we also offer, there is an autonomy and control that the kids get from drone flying that they rarely get in the rest of their young lives.

“Because we are a recognised drone flying organisation, registered with the Civil Aviation Authority and fully insured, the children are able to learn in a safe, legal environment.”

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.

Vanda Rumney

Left: Tracy-Anne with her London Marathon Finishers Medal

Right: Gareth explains the intricacies of drone control

May Days

Once upon a time on a small farm near Billingshurst…

Thefamily arrived home at last from Camber. The roads had been closed on either side of Heathfield so Nanny had to direct Grandad on other very unknown roads and places. It took a long time to get home and the humans were very tired, and so was Poppy. Anne told Mummy when they finally got there, that the big fox was back and had been around.

“Hmm,” thought Magnus, “I thought I’d got rid of him.” Obviously he hadn’t or the fox had come back since Magnus had been at Camber. He kind of forgot about it for half an hour or so as Nanny and Grandad unpacked the car. But while they were pottering about Nanny heard the dogs barking from the footie paddock. When she looked out the window she saw Magnus with Poppy in tow in hot pursuit of the big fox. They were nowhere fast enough to catch him, but it was sufficient to get rid of him for awhile. They came back for their dinner very pleased with themselves.

In April Nanny had arranged with a lady from freecycle to get some goldfish. She had sent some photos of the big pond and was going to pick them up over the Coronation weekend. Sadly, after she had got home when she went out to check it, she was devastated to find it half dried out! No home for new fish.

Fortunately she had bought a new pump for the little pond and spent the next day sorting the pond linings out, cleaning the pond and installing the new pump and filter. Fish installed in small pond –disaster averted.

Next she will have to attack the big pond. Firstly all the dried stringy green algae which had coated the waterfall has to be scraped off, then the pond itself has to be cleaned. Next on the list will be tracking down the leak – easier said than done.

Then it has to be refilled and the area around pond has to be tidied as it had become overgrown. Finally, if all goes according to plan, the fish will be transferred with protection so they don’t meet a nasty end.

Next is the swimming pool. It will need to be opened for the summer season. Nanny was really pleased Sarah was helping with that. That job will take about two weeks to complete: getting the cover over the pool emptied where rain had gathered in it, removing the cover, filling the pool, cleaning the pool and finally the moment of uncertainty – turning the power on – will the pump work this year?

But the big event for May will be Nanny’s significant ‘0’ birthday. She and Anne decided on an at-home event The kids will come home from uni for the weekend, a few friends will be invited and it will be a very low-key event. However, to spice things up a little, Nanny’s sisters, Pauline, from NZ and Monica from BC, Canada, have decided they were coming, as did Anne’s sister Gaby from London. So it will be a full-blown family affair.

(A note from Yvonne Fleece – as I am writing this at the beginning of May some of these events haven’t happened yet. However, if you remember the seagulls at Camber, we are pleased (?) to announce that despite the wind blowing away the initial nest on next door’s roof, the pair of seagulls returned, made another and were faithfully sitting on it when we left. We will report on the progress when we return to Camber at the end of May.)

In the meantime, the May days will bring spring, new growth, lots of gardening, dog walking and their own adventures to that little farm near Billingshurst.

Yvonne Fleece

Big pond

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Billingshurst Parish Council

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

Five Oaks Traffic Calming

Although a Speed Indicator Device (SID) and some gateway features have been installed in recent years to try to calm traffic through Five Oaks, residents are keen to see more initiatives and residents have themselves submitted a bid to reduce the speed limit to WSCC. The individual who championed the earlier initiatives has decided to stand down and has passed the case file to the Parish Council, who are also holding £6,176 to progress further traffic calming measures. Mindful that many new families have moved into the hamlet who we are sure have ideas and energy, if anyone would like to take up the baton, please contact the Parish Clerk.

Help us look after pollinators

Over the past few years, the Parish Council has been working closely with the local environmental group BilliGreen in trying to do more to increase biodiversity and help our pollinators. In 2021, we introduced a number of ‘No Mow’ areas across council owned open spaces within the parish and we are looking to do more in 2023. Plug plants and seed bombs have been planted in some local areas and we are asking residents to do whatever they can to support these efforts. A very successful meeting was recently held with interested parties, and our garden contractors mentioned that on occasions, they have noted some excess garden rubbish dumped on council land.

Residents are reminded that brown top bins are available from the District Council and there is an excellent Household Waste Recycling Centre on the outskirts of Billingshurst village. If you find you have excess garden rubbish, please use these facilities rather than dumping excess waste on Council land. Rubbish dumped on and around these areas will also harm the many efforts that are being made to help support our pollinators which we hope in turn, will help make our parish a more pleasant place to live so your consideration would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Jubilee Fields Fishing Lake

Swimming in the lake is DANGEROUS and could result in death or serious illness. It also damages lake life. Swimming in the lake is an OFFENCE as it breaks a local by-law and those caught doing so

will be dealt with by the Police. Please call the Police on 101 if you see someone swimming in the lake. Please do not allow your dogs to swim in the lake.

Neighbourhood Wardens

If you need to make contact with our Neighbourhood Wardens, their details are as follows:

Barry Faust 07795 051516

Julie Green 07795 051529

The Wardens hold regular drop-in sessions and these are listed on the Parish Council website and social media pages.

The Billingshurst WI

Did you know that there is a daytime meeting of the Billingshurst Women’s Institute held at the Billingshurst Centre on the second Thursday of each month, commencing at 2.30pm.

You can find more details about their meetings on our website homepage by searching under the Community tab or by contacting the President of the Billingshurst WI on 07714 212637.

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 (June)

1st: Planning & Environment Committee

14th: Working Practices

28th: Billingshurst Centre and F&GP Committees

BILLINGSHURST ‘IN BLOOM’ LOCAL COMPETITION – 2023

The Parish Council is delighted to once again be holding its own local ‘In Bloom’ competition . In previous years, the competition proved very popular with local residents. Please note: This year we are offering a new category for the ‘Best Pollinator Garden’. If entering this category, the entrant’s garden will also be judged on its biodiversity in providing nourishment for our pollinators. This may include a few daisies or clover left to grow in the lawn, or planting which would specifically appeal to insects, birds, butterflies and mammals. To enter, please complete the form below and return it to the Parish Council Offices by Thursday 29th June. Our judges will then travel out and about over the course of the month of July, and awards will be presented at the Billingshurst Centre in September. You can enter no more than three categories, and all displays must be visible from the street. Each entry will be judged on Impact, Care and Attention and Horticultural Content. However, you don’t need to be Monty Don to enter, so if you enjoy pottering, and it looks good, please have a go and enter! All those who enter will be invited along to a glittering awards ceremony at the Billingshurst Centre in September!

Previous year’s winners

Be a Barbecue Boss!

How to choose a barbecue

Summer is here, and what better way to enjoy the weather than by hosting a barbecue in your garden? But with so many types of barbecues available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are a few things to consider when selecting the best barbecue for your plot.

Size matters – Well it’s an important consideration anyway! Your barbecue should be large enough to accommodate the amount of food you need for all your guests, but not so large that it takes up your whole space. Consider how many people you will usually cook for, and how often you plan to host a barbecue.

Fuel type – There are three choices: charcoal, gas, or electricity. Each has its pros and cons, so consider which type of fuel is best for your needs. Charcoal barbecues provide that authentic smoky flavour but can be difficult to light and regulate the temperature. Gas barbecues are easy to use and allow for precise temperature control but can be more expensive to run. Electric barbecues are convenient and easy to use but may not provide the same level of flavour as charcoal or gas. Gas and electricity also have the advantage of allowing for more spontaneity as they can be switched on and ready to go pretty much instantly. Good for unpredictable British weather. Construction – A high-quality barbecue should be built to last, with sturdy materials and solid construction. Look for a barbecue with a thick, heavy-duty grill grate, and a durable body made from materials like stainless steel or cast iron. Avoid barbecues with flimsy components that may

rust or break over time. Additional features – Some barbecues come with additional features that can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. For example, a side burner can be used for cooking side dishes or sauces, while a built-in thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of the food. Other features to consider include warming racks, rotisserie attachments, and smoker boxes.

Price – Barbecues can range in price from under £100 to £1000plus. Consider how much you are willing to spend, and what features are most important to you. Remember that a higher price does not necessarily mean better quality, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.

Accessories – Once you’ve settled on the barbie, it’s time to accessorise. Barbecues can reach over 300°C so a pair of heat-proof gloves will reduce the risk of burns. Cleaning your grill while it’s still warm makes removing stubborn grease and sticky marinades a little easier to shift. A hard-wearing scraper and brush that has a long handle is probably the best method. My husband loves his grill press, which is easier to use for searing steaks and burgers than a spatula, and his grill cage, both for cooking fish and also for turning several kebabs at a time! A meat thermometer is also a good investment, especially if you cook a lot of chicken.

In the UK barbecue season is fairly short so let’s make the most of al fresco dining while we can.

Kate McCarthy

Be safe – see opposite for some barbecue safety tips from Billingshurst Fire Brigade. Ed

Summer Safety Tips from Billingshurst Fire Station

With the warmer weather on its way, people may start to move outside – either in the garden or in the countryside. The warmer weather does bring with it unique risks.

Barbecues

Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the barbecue or any cooking!

• Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs or garden waste.

• Never leave a barbecue or any cooking unattended.

• Never use a barbecue indoors.

• Keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.

• Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues.

• Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue; use only recognised lighters or starter fuels on coal.

Empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins. If they’re hot, they can melt the plastic and start a fire

Camping

When camping, follow these basic precautions to reduce the risk of fire starting and spreading:

• Never use candles in or near a tent – torches are safer.

• Don’t smoke inside a tent.

• Place your cooking area well away from the tent.

• Before you set off, get the contact details of the local fire and rescue service.

• Set up tents at least six metres apart and away from parked cars.

• Make sure you know what the fire arrangements on the camp site are and where the nearest telephone is.

• Keep your cooking area clear of flammable items, including long, dry grass.

• Put cooking appliances in a place where they can’t easily be knocked over.

• Keep matches, lighters, flammable liquids and gas cylinders out of the reach of children.

• Have an escape plan and be prepared to cut your way out of your tent if there is a fire.

How to reduce the risk of wildfires

Dry ground in the summer means there’s an added risk of a fire starting, but you should take care at all times of the year. Follow these tips to reduce the chance of a wildfire in the countryside

• Extinguish cigarettes properly and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground – take your litter home.

• Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows.

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

• Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland – sunlight shining through glass can start fires (take them home and recycle them).

• Only use barbecues in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended.

• If you see a fire in the countryside, report it to the fire and rescue service immediately.

• Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.

Twitter: @Station49Fire

Facebook: Billingshurst Fire Station

Dan Game, Billingshurst Fire Station

The Spaniel Diaries

Well hello there, I thought I would introduce myself this month. Most of you know me as “that stupid puppy” but my name is Goose. Now I’m all growed up I can have my own say!

No longer can everyone say that I’m too small to do things. Mum has been really careful with my exercise up till now, “because of my growing joints,” she said – I think it’s just because she can’t keep up with me because I run so fast and I’m brilliant at evading capture!

I have been taken all over the place to see the sights and sounds and things going on – the big boys call it socialising. It’s quite fun –especially the pub place as I get extra food to keep me quiet while I learn to sit under the table and have good manners. I have been learning to do a thing called ‘heel’ too, which means I must stay at mum’s side while walking; I find this really hard because I just want to run. We have also been meeting other animals, I keep well clear of the things called horses, they are massive and a bit scary if I’m honest!

I had my first swim recently. I love running through water but swimming in it is even more fun! I even kept up with the big boys – I can easily outrun Billy now and keep up with my long-legged brother, I’ll soon be faster than him too I think.

Mum gave me some disgusting medicine, supposedly to keep nasty things away such as fleas and worms. I think she did it to get me back for tearing my rubber mat to bits in my car crate –I can’t hep it, it’s such great fun and feels good on my teeth – mum’s face when she saw the bits everywhere is priceless! She’s now chuntering about going to something called a DIY store to get

something I won’t be able to rip up – this means war. We shall see!

Mum made me go to the vets last week because I had an ear infection apparently, I must admit my ears were a bit itchy but I drew the line when she said they were smelly too. A man in a white coat put me on a table and looked in my ears. He said I was very cute. I am a handsome spaniel, not cute. I’m not a baby anymore, remember, so to teach him a lesson I peed all over his table and squirmed around in it, covering everyone who tried to hold me still with wee – it was hilarious, mum was very embarrassed so I might have to do that more often! For the next few days I had to have cold slimy ear drops put in, but I must admit it’s a relief not to have itchy ears any more.

We are all getting groomed a lot now so mum can check us over for nasty little insects called ticks. Apparently they bite and suck blood and even latch onto humans as well! Mum says they are disgusting and spread disease and she’s always telling people to check themselves and their pets and to use tick repellent in grassy and wooded areas.

Mum is also keeping us safe from the warmer weather that is finally coming. We are going for our walks in the cool dawn and later in the evening to keep out of the heat of the day. We have also been treated to a pool in the garden so we can spend our days in the shade of the trees and take a dip to cool off when we fancy – I love being a spaniel!

Great to say hello – stay safe and enjoy the sun!

Jeannette Douglas

Garden View

Poached egg flowers

Poached Egg plants are among my summer favourites. Limnanthes douglasii (to give it its proper name) is a fantastic addition to any garden. It is easy to grow, requires little care and produces masses of beautiful flowers that attract pollinators. The best time to plant it is outside from March to May but if you have a sunny, well-drained spot you can plant them in early June and they will reward you handsomely with delightful fat yellow-centred blooms, which I think look more like fried eggs than poached ones! The delicate ferny foliage is also attractive.

Planting limnanthes douglasii is straightforward. Sow the seeds directly in a sunny, well-drained area. The soil ideal should be light and fertile. If you have heavy soil, you can improve it by adding sand and organic matter such as compost, leaf mould or well-rotted manure. Don’t go mad or you’ll end up with lots of leaves and fewer flowers.

Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to keep the soil moist. Germination usually takes 7-14 days, and once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to a distance of 15cm

apart to allow for good airflow and growth.

You might need to go on slug patrol while the plants are small, but once established, poached egg plants are low-maintenance and require little care. Water regularly, during dry spells and that’s about it! You can also prolong the flowers by deadheading the faded blooms regularly.

Limnanthes douglasii is a prolific bloomer that produces masses of flowers from June to August, though if you plant now they’ll probably go through to the end of September if your garden is sheltered.

The plant grows to a height of 15cm and spreads to a width of around 15-20cm. It selfseeds freely so makes an excellent ground cover. It can be planted in borders, rockeries, meadows or as a filler in containers. It also attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Plant a poached egg today!

Happy gardening!

Rachel Leverton

TREE SURGERY

Ifyouhave businessagarden-related (flowers, mowers,greenhouses,sheds,tools, etc)pleasecontact yourVillageTweettoday.Wewillplace adinourpopularGardensection

West Chiltington Floral Club

Tuesday 20th June, 7pm for 7.30pm start. We welcome Patricia Ellis with her demonstration ‘Tins and Things’ 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

June is busting out all over!

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.

Hello dear reader, What a strange spring season we have just had. Plenty of the wet stuff, ever more chilly and moisture-laden winds, and only the lightest of grass frosts heralding the end of winter.

As a result there has been the greatest show of Blackthorn blossom that I can ever remember. White clouds decorated hedges and field margins in a show that was a true delight to witness. ‘Blackthorn winter’ was the old name for this show as it mimics the appearance of snow along the hedgerows and it was the opposite of that other saying, ‘Indian summer’ that heralded a final blast of warmth as the summer season ended.

I hope that this great show of blossom will produce a corresponding harvest of sloe berries in the autumn. The promise is there, so get the gin ready for that gorgeously warming drop of sloe nectar on a cold winter day.

Thinking about this sudden abundance of blossom made me think of other changes I’ve noticed this year in the flora around the farm. The fields themselves have had to endure a rotten winter. Rain, rain, and then more rain. Our heavy, poorly draining clay soil hasn’t helped, and the meadows have squelched under foot for months and as a result the grass had been very reluctant to burst into growth. Not now though! Two mows over my lawn and it’s just bursting to get going. I guess the lack of any meaningful frosts this year has acted as a signal for nature to get into top gear. Buds have moved fast and except for very light damage on some Magnolias most spring flowers have escaped from the usual cold snaps. Even my cherry and plum trees have the promise of a nice crop this year. Not that the birds will leave any of the cherries for me!

The early flowers of spring are doing very well indeed though. The primroses around our lanes and woodlands have been superb… and their blossoms lasting well beyond their normal period.

On our reservoir we had the most incredible display of cowslips that we have ever had. For many years the reservoir’s banks have supported a dusting of blooms, but this winter the selfseeding of these lovely old flowers has been a delight to see. Hundreds of them lined the bank, and, along with primrose and celandine, they created a carpet of yellow that lingered for over a month.

Must say though… as the month ended, that eye-shattering glare from three huge fields of flowering rape was not so pleasing. It hits your visual senses with all the finesse of a wrecking ball! If only we could see it as the bees do. In the wavelengths that they see, that vivid yellow appears as a warming blue. No wonder they love it, as any bee keeper will assure you they will ignore any other blooms if a field of rape is flowering nearby. At the beginning of May the bluebells flashed their faces in the woods and hedgerows. Desperate to flower before the opening leaves of the trees above them once more sent them into the gloom of the green canopy, also that secret wood of wild garlic that locals all know, sending waves of culinary aroma as you drive slowly by with the windows down.

As you can probably tell, I love the spring. The wonderful promise of fruits to come. Lambs gamboling in the drying meadows. Bees buzzing, and birds singing. Warm breezes that now bring relief rather than shivers to the aches of working limbs. Lovely ain’t it!

Now we can dig that flowerbed at last, mow that lawn… again. Oh, I know, that blasted hedge needs a trim, the car wants a wash, as does the greenhouse glass.

What? Water the plants! Ye Gods, we’ve only just got over a three-month flooding!

Darn it, open the shed, get that deckchair out, pray it will take your weight once more, pour a beer or open that bottle of last year’s sloe gin… but most of all… enjoy.

It’s summer!

John Nash

Photo: The farm’s brimming reservoir

Assistant Baker needed to join our friendly team

If you are a night person and are looking for work on a permanent basis how about learning a new skill? Full training will be given to the right applicant. Commitment, physically fit and attention to detail are required. Please get in touch and let’s meet up for a chat.

Please e-mail: mark@jengersbakery.co.uk

www.jengerscraftbakery.co.uk

CLERK TO GOVERNORS VACANCY

Billingshurst Primary School is looking for a Clerk to Governors to support this vital group of volunteers.

The Clerk is responsible for advising the governing body on constitutional and procedural matters as well as providing administrative support to ensure effective governance. You will work particularly closely with the Chair of Governors and Headteacher. Previous experience as a clerk is desirable but not essential as training will be provided.

The successful candidate will need to be flexible, proficient with Office 365 and have good communication, organisational and administrative skills.

This paid position requires an average of 5 hours per week (term time only) but as needs can vary across the academic year, additional hours may be required on an ad-hoc basis. The majority of work is home-based and can be completed flexibly within agreed time frames. However, attendance will be required at half termly governing body meetings and termly finance committee meetings.

To find out more about this role, please visit www.billingshurstprimary.org.uk/web/vacancies or email Nicola Waters, Chair of Governors: nwaters@billingshurstprimary.org.uk

Who wants to be… a Trustee of the Women’s Hall?

Thisquestion was put to me in 1993 by the then chair, Wendy Lines, and I said, “Yes!”

At the time, I had two small girls and our garden in Billingshurst was not a great place for them to play, hence the Mother’s Garden (Women’s Hall playground) became a favourite venue. Becoming a Trustee seemed a good way to make a contribution to this valuable village asset, which my children enjoyed. Now my grandchildren love visiting, too.

After 30 years in a most rewarding role, it is time for me to retire as a Trustee. I am looking forward to taking part in the rest of the celebrations planned for our centenary year, then handing over to others who can bring new ideas and enthusiasm to promote and preserve this unique, historic asset.

If you think you are someone who has that drive and enthusiasm to join the Trustees of this charity (Charity Number: 208927) in helping to take the Women’s Hall into its next 100 years, then we would love to hear from you.

As a Trustee, you would be part of a small group

Billingshurst Rangers

We are looking for volunteers to be part of the team to run the Ranger unit.

Would you like a new challenge?

We would like to open the first ever Ranger unit in Billingshurst. Rangers are girls aged 14 to 18. Rangers want to have fun, learn new skills, hang out and just be themselves. Rangers follow the Girlguiding programme working on the six themes to gain their awards, which includes working on interest badges such as Bush Craft, Volunteering and Digital Designs, plus getting out and about, camping and trying new activities. Learning new skills makes the Rangers independent and gain more life skills along the way.

We need enthusiastic adults to run the unit, the programme is a team effort shared by the girls and the leader team. A good sense of humour is essential plus a desire to help young adults develop and grow into the best version of themselves, building confidence and self-esteem. Whilst having lots of fun and adventures along the way!

If this sounds of interest to you, please get in touch via: www.girlguiding.org.uk/joinus or call 0800 169 5901

who meet regularly to discuss the smooth-running of the hall and playground, while considering new projects and opportunities for their enhancement. This reflects the aim of the Misses Beck, the hall’s founders, to create a safe space for women. Over the years, of course, this vision has grown to encompass all sections of the community. Another important aspect is to maintain good relations with our clients which have included the WI, baby clinic, Horticultural Society, Brownies, yoga, wedding receptions, parties and, at present, Wakoos breakfast and after-school clubs, BDS, Music Bus and community initiatives. A display of photographs featuring some of these activities can be seen at the Community Centre, courtesy of Wendy Lines.

If you would like to find out more about being a Trustee, please contact Sue, Secretary of Women’s Hall Trustees, e-mail: suesamson94@gmail.com. Jane Chittenden, Chair of Trustees

Photo: Jane Chittenden with her daughters, Amy and Sophie, plus grandchildren, outside the Women’s Hall

Looking for a new challenge?

Can you spare some time on a Tuesday evening?

We are looking for volunteers to help keep our Brownie Unit open.

We have a thriving Brownie Unit in the area which would benefit from your help. A few hours of your time each week can make a massive difference to the lives of our girls and benefit the local community. Our Brownie unit has been active for 51 years; maybe you know of someone who attended this unit or maybe you were a Brownie here? Can you help us to keep running?

Girlguiding is only made possible by our amazing volunteers. Join us, be an inspiration for girls and young women, share some unforgettable moments and help us to keep our Unit open.

Want to know more? Have a look at www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or call 0800 169 5901.

Be inspiring. Be part of it. Be you.

What’s On – June

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 Weds Yoga Class for all abilities. Billingshurst Community Centre. 7.30-8.30pm. Book via www.yogawithmelita.co.uk

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

Petworth Festival – 11th-29th July

Petworth Festival line-up announced –bringing world class quality and variety to your doorstep

Witha classical programme lit up by the likes of Jess Gillam, top choral group Tenebrae, and the young superstar pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, and alongside gigs from evergreens The Manfreds and jazz/funk maestros

Shakatak, comedy from Clive Anderson and Henry Normal, and traditional music from the mighty Gigspanner Big Band and Irish whirlwind that is Lisa Canny, Festival Director Stewart Collins feels there is a great deal to be excited about. ‘People comment every year on the sheer variety of what we present annually in and around Petworth, but I would love to think that this year we raise that particular bar higher than ever.’

Events will take place in twelve venues over nineteen days in and around Petworth, key venues including The Petworth House Stables, St Mary’s Church Petworth, Midhurst Rother College’s fabulous theatre and Coldwaltham’s elegant Champs Hill Music Room. ‘One of our key aims is to bring the very best ‘to your doorstep’ and I’d have to say that the option of travelling just a few miles to see artists of this quality rather than to the bigger centres is very much part of the Petworth Festival’s appeal.’

landscape, one a brand-new commission Bignor Hill by local composer Ned Bigham, the other the South Downs Suite by jazz quartet Full Circle. Spanish violinist Violetta Vicci also takes to the open air at Bignor Park in two concerts featuring both live and electronic music entitled Live in

Nature

A festival that will take you on a journey

A number of

events

in this year’s programme specifically celebrate Petworth’s place at the heart of the South Downs

Two concerts feature music inspired by the

Stewart Collins likens this to another specific aspect of the Petworth Festival: ‘we really hope that people will see their experience of the festival as a journey: an actual journey between venues in the Petworth area certainly, but also a metaphorical journey through great performance and great performance styles. To be able to take in music by the finest classical artists, top musicians from other traditions such as the sarod players Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, Columbian band Cimarron and Gambian kora player Jali Bakary Konteh – and then the sheer abandon of dancing the nights away at Petworth House Stables and Rother College events really sums up what I hope audiences will take away from the festival. Fun yes; contemplation of nature yes; but primarily the genuine thrill of being up so close and personal with artists you would otherwise not expect to see in such close quarters… It’s a compelling cocktail!’

Box Office open now.

For further information and bookings: www.petworthfestival.org.uk

07762 767084, editor@villagetweet.co.uk

all fitness levels16 and over. Darkened room with flashing disco lights and music (90s to now). Pre-bookings 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. Visit this historic building and Mar-Nov 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 Apr-Sep game of Lawn Bowls. No previous experience required, 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

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

3 Jun St Gabriel’s Summer Fair. East Street, Billingshurst. 10.30am-1.30pm. Cakes, crafts, refreshments, books, tombola and much more. Free car parking

3-18 Jun Surrey Artists Open Studios. For 16 days in June Surrey artists will be welcoming the public into their studios. surreyopenstudios.org.uk/open-studios to locate a studio and brochure pick up point

6 Jun The Arts Society West Sussex lecture by Steven Desmond: ‘The Odd Couple – The Gardens of Edwin Lutyens & Gertrude Jekyll’. Fittleworth Village Hall. Doors open 1.40, lecture 2pm followed by tea and coffee. Visitors (£7 cash only) most welcome. Tel: (01903) 411086 or email: jackiebuckler@sky.com www.theartssocietywestsussex.org

7 Jun The Arts Society – South Downs lecture by Alexandra Epps: ‘Peggy Guggenheim’. Fittleworth Village Hall. 10.45am, preceded by coffee from 9.50am Visitors welcome, £7, contact Jane Allison, tel: (01798) 813314 or www.theartssocietysouthdowns.org.uk

7 Jun Billingshurst Beck WI Talk by ‘Beck & Calling’ playwright Ted Gooda. The Women’s Hall, High Street, Billingshurst, RH14 9LQ. 7.30pm. Non-WI members welcome, £4 including refreshments. For further information tel: (01444) 483682 or email: billingshurstbeckwi@wsfi.co.uk. See page 11

8 Jun Billingshurst WI Talk: ‘Chanctonbury Ring’ by Dr Jane Pennington. Community Centre, Roman Way. 2.30pm. Room not available until 2.15pm. Interesting speakers, hobby groups, various outings. Visitors welcome. Tel: (01403) 257531 / 07714 212637

9 Jun Horsham Matters Charity Golf Day. Slinfold Golf & Country Club. 9.30am. Teams or 4, £50 pp, 18 holes. Breakfast and lunch included. To book e-mail: fundraising£horsham-matters.org.uk. See April’s Village Tweet, page 13

9 Jun Billingshurst Horticultural Society Minibus Outing to RHS Garden, Wisley. 50% reduction for 2 members to visit Wisley or any RHS Garden. Ticket from Hon. Sec. Mrs S Wells, tel: (01403) 784159

10 JunSt Catherine’s Hospice Midnight Walk. Horsham. 20, 13, 7 or 2 miles routes available. www.stch.org.uk/midnightwalk, or (01293) 447361. See May’s Village Tweet, page 10

11 Jun Hike the Hill. Walk the highest point in the Surrey Hills to transform the lives of young people. Amber: www.amberweb.org. Register: www.justgiving.com/campaign/hikethehill23. More info: Louise Cheung, 07879 415716, e-mail: louise.cheung@amberweb.org. See May’s Village Tweet, page 43

11 Jun

Slinfold School Summer Fair. School Playing Field. £1 (kids free). See page 41

14 Jun Parish Council Neighbourhood Plan Working Party meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 6.30pm

16 Jun Macmillan Film night. ‘The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’. 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 or on the door (subject to availability)

16 Jun Sussex Day. Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, RH20 4HR. Local crafts. See page 6

16 Jun Ultimate Elton. 8pm. Kelsey Hall, Ifold, RH14 0UD. The Best Elton John tribute act. Cash & Card Bar. Tickets £17. Advance sales only. Book now: www.kelseyhall.org.uk. See page 9

17 Jun Christ’s Hospital Choral Society presents ‘The King’s Music’ summer concert of Coronation music and King Charles III’s favourites. The Chapel. 7.30. £12.50, tel: (01403) 247434. See page 9

17 Jun Wisborough Gren Primary School Summer Fair. Village Green. 12-4pm. See page 41

Ingfield Manor School Fete run by Ingfield Friends. Five Oaks, Billingshurst. 1-4pm. Miniature steam railway, dog show, children’s rides, stalls, food stalls, candy floss, tombola, grand raffle and much more! £5 per car, £3 single (cash only)

Billingshurst Artisan Market. Six Bells car park. 9.30am-1.30pm. Local foods and crafts. See page 6 Macmillan Film night. ‘The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’. 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)

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. Free entry. Please email jackie@cranleigharts.org to find out more or book a slot. www.cranleighartscentre.org

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

The Mother’s Fire. Nature connection group for mothers and children of all ages at a beautiful, secure farm in Billingshurst. 10.30am. Runs on Friday dates from February to December, check the booking site for full list of dates and timings. Visit www.acornsandembers.co.uk for more info and to book 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

Billingshurst Show &Carnival Procession: ‘Our World & Beyond’. See back cover Cranleigh Creatives monthly social evening. The Richard Onslow from 7pm. They also have willow weaving, a summer floral basket and gel printing workshops coming up in June. A new friendly group who enjoy all sorts of crafts and new members are very welcome. Find them on Facebook: ‘Cranleigh Creatives’ or e-mail Caroline Hayes: pearl_caroline@yahoo.co.uk

Parish Council Billingshurst Centre & F&GP Committees meetings. Billingshurst Centre. 7 & 7.30pm Jo Brand. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 8pm. Join Jo Brand with her special guest, Andy Robinson. Tickets £18: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

Vivace Chorus presents: ‘The Cherry Trees’ concert. Holy Trinity, Guidford. 7pm. Mozart, Handel, Bach, Brahms and more. Tickets £10 (Students & U18 £5), vivacechorus.org

Billingshurst Choral Society Concert: Mendelssohn’s Elijah St Gabriel’s Church, Billingshurst. 7.30pm. More info and tickets: www.billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk. See page 9

Village Tweet will publish details of local events in this free What’s On section. Please email brief details to editor@villagetweet.co.uk together with contact or website details

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Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Surrey, GU6 7NS www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk

vibrant and nurturing co-educational setting from Nursery to GCSE

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To book a tour of the school, please visit our website or contact us on 01483 277313