Village Tweet - May 2023

Issue

The event that will overshadow all others this month is of course King Charles III’s coronation on 6th May. Like most Village Tweet readers I have known only one monarch in my lifetime so this is a momentous occasion.

Several events are happening in Billingshurst to mark the occasion, see page 9. Why not brush up on your coronation general knowledge? See page 8. Younger readers are not forgotten – we have a page of coronation puzzles on page 32 just for you and, of course, a coronation Spot the Difference for the young and not so young on page 37.

Grahame

It's time to go behind the tape and discover...

The remarkable reality of life as a world leading forensic search and rescue expert

Available to buy now from Amazon

Lions Continuing Support in the Community

Billingshurst & District Lions Club has recently either donated or pledged funding for a number of local projects. In particular, a donation of £3,000 for Mary How Trust to purchase a Defibrillator and Medical Couch for their new clinic in Pulborough. This is in addition to an earlier donation £1,750 for an ECG machine.

Mary How Trust carries out screening for cancers, heart disease, kidney, liver, diabetes and offer PSA testing for men over 40. Patients are immediately referred to a Consultant as soon as a defect is detected, providing a truly lifesaving service.

Mary How Trust is a charity which make no charge for their services, they simply ask for a donation, based on a person’s ability to pay. They receive no Government funding and are entirely donor sponsored.

Other recent local support includes: Weald School – Classrooms for Kenya. An ongoing project since 2006. This year 39 students and 8 teachers are visiting Kenya to build further classrooms. Billingshurst Lions have contributed £1000 towards materials and pledged £300 for travel and accommodation.

Billingshurst Boxing Club – Billingshurst Lions donated £1000, along with others, for start-up expenses. Initiated by Neighbourhood Wardens, Julie and Barry, and, under the guidance of Programme Mentor, Matt, the Club is proving very popular.

Sussex Clubs for Young People – The Depot – Having donated £850 for furniture in the new premises, Billingshurst

Lions are pleased to see that the project is going well with over 60 children attending for activities 3 days a week.

Christmas Events – Billingshurst Lions were pleased to provide over £2800 including food hampers to support families and financial help for care homes and senior’s parties in the area.

Iggy’s Bumps and Babies – In association with the Billingshurst Community Partnership, the Lions donated £250 for training in providing support for new mothers.

Air Ambulance Kent, Surrey & Sussex –

Following previous donations to this essential service, Billingshurst Lions have provided £1800 for two emergency kit bags.

None of this would be possible without your continued generous support of the Lions’ fundraising activities, especially donating and buying books and jigsaws in the Lions Charity Bookshop in Jengers Mead, open Wednesday to Saturday. 9.30am till 4.00pm.

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: Sam, Manager at MHT’s new clinic in Pulborough, holding the Defibrillator purchased with part of the Lions donation

Mechanical Design Consultancy with over 30 years in the industry working on projects from Large Data Centres, Hotels to small commercial

Cook Consultancy & Technical Ltd

Tel: 07507 401962, 01403 612338

Email: keith@cctechnical.org

* Full HVAC Design

* Energy Audits

* Condition Reports

* Feasibility Studies

* Sustainability Design

* MEES Regulation

* Plant Upgrades

* Soft Landings

Bombay Potatoes

A spicy supper or side dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: up to 20 minutes for boiling potatoes, 10-12 minutes to fry. Serves: 4-6

METHOD

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the potatoes and boil until just tender, Allow to cool a little.

2. Quarter one tomato then blend together with the ginger and garlic. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, then add the cumin and mustard seeds. When the cumin starts to darken, add the onion. Cook for one minute then add the ginger and garlic mixture, the ground spices and salt.

3. Sauté gently for one to two minutes until the garlic smells cooked but is not burnt.

4. Slice the second tomato into thin wedges and add them to the frying pan. Stir well and cook the mixture for three to four minutes. Tip the potatoes into the pan and cook for three to five minutes, allow the flavours to be absorbed. Season to taste and stir in the chopped coriander before serving.

INGREDIENTS

900g Jersey Royals

Thumb-sized piece of root ginger, peeled.

3 garlic cloves, peeled

2 large ripe tomatoes

4 tbsp vegetable oil

¾ tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp mustard seeds

1 large onion, roughly chopped

2/3 tsp turmeric

2 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp garam masala

½-¾ tsp chilli powder

Large handful of chopped coriander leaves

Salt, to taste

Horsham Matters – much more than a foodbank

The cost-of-living crisis is affecting the entire community, but for some the stark reality of higher prices has meant turning to a foodbank for the first time in their lives.

Horsham Matters, the charity that supports those suffering hardship across the Horsham District, has seen demand for its services soar as food and energy bills have rocketed. In January 2022 the charity’s foodbanks provided food for 347 people – in January 2023 that figure had leapt to 788.

Demand is such that it has expanded its foodbank warehouse and foodbank at its community sup-port centre in Horsham and added extra foodbank sessions in central Horsham and from its mobile foodbank visiting outlying towns and villages in the district. The mobile hub (see photo) stops at Billingshurst every Monday from 10am to 11am at the Library car park. The full timetable of areas is available at www.horsham-matters.org.uk

For those unable to afford to pay for energy it can provide fuel vouchers and in the first six weeks of the year supplied 37 – that compares with 114 for the whole of 2022.

However, the charity offers much more than crisis support. Its aim is to look at the wider health, social and economic factors that lead to poverty and help put those turning to the charity on a path to financial stability. To do this it provides free advice on household budgeting,

debt and benefits checks, advocacy as well as counselling and a befriending service.

Staff and volunteers are committed to making access to support as easy and as dignified as possible and anyone facing hardship is encouraged to contact them. If you are in need of support please call 0300 124 0204, option 1, to find out how to access the foodbank, fuel vouchers or advice, or e-mail info@horsham-matters.org.uk.

To make a financial donation to Horsham Matters’ Helping Those in Crisis campaign, please go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/ helpingthoseincrisis

Horsham Matters services: Emergency food and fuel vouchers

• Toy bank

• Preloved school uniform

• Free household budgeting, debt and benefits advice

• Essential household goods for those previously homeless and newly housed

• A drop-in Connecting Café open to all

• Counselling and befriending service

• Advocacy

For more information about Horsham Matters please go to www.horsham-matters.org.uk

Gill Davies, Trusts and Foundations Officer, Horsham Matters

What has been the most exciting celebration you have been part of? A Birthday, wedding, Anniversary, reunion perhaps. The anticipation and then the day itself becomes a gift that tucks into that treasure trove of memory. Something to remind you of good times with people you care about. As a nation we have the Coronation this month of May.

Households and communities joining together, focused around a moment of history, and finding ways to celebrate

The Bible encourages us to live life to the full with a joy that is offered as a gift to bless our days, a feature of faith. Jesus himself says:

“I have come in order that you might have life—life in all its fullness.” Bible, John 10, verse 10, Good News Translation

How can we make joy part of our everyday as well as special occasions? Finding such happiness and joy can seem impossible in the

face of suffering and situations. Yet when you look in the Bible joy is frequently mentioned. A joy that comes from the depth of God’s ever-present love alongside us into eternity. This is not a pretend, forced attitude of mind but a gift to be received. Have you met people in your life that seem to have that foundation within them whatever life brings?

I once was given the challenge of keeping a ‘Joy Journal’. This involved keeping a book where you recorded snippets of those everyday joys and happiness that days brought. Memories of joy in words, pictures, souvenirs. It was to be kept somewhere to hand, perhaps your bedside table to where you could flip through and be reminded of joy. How about trying that challenge?

Enjoy the Coronation celebrations and look out for joy each day.

Rates: www.villagetweet.co.uk

page 8

Long Live the King!

A brief history of coronations

On 6th May King Charles III’s coronation will take place, an event steeped in centuries of tradition and symbolism.

Coronations mark the formal investiture of a monarch with regal power, typically by the placing of a crown upon their head. They can be traced back to the early Middle Ages, with the first recorded coronation in Britain of King Egbert of Wessex in 802.

However, it was not until the Norman Conquest in 1066 that the tradition of coronations as we know them today truly began. William the Conqueror’s coronation at Westminster Abbey laid the foundation for the ceremonies that followed, and the Abbey has since served as the primary venue for all but two coronations.

The ceremony itself is a blend of religious, political and cultural elements. Historically, the Archbishop of Canterbury has been responsible for presiding over the ceremony.

One of the most iconic aspects of the coronation is the anointing of the monarch with holy oil, symbolising their consecration to God and their role as defender of the faith. The origins of this practice date back to biblical times, and the anointing of the kings of Israel. The oil used for the anointing is traditionally held in the Ampulla, a gold, eagle-shaped vessel, and applied using the Anointing Spoon, which dates back to the 12th Century.

The crowning of the monarch is the climax of the coronation ceremony. The crown is a symbol of the continuity of the British monarchy. Over the centuries, various crowns have been used, but the

most famous is St Edward’s crown which was originally used for the coronation of Charles ll in 1661 and will be used to crown King Charles lll this month.

The ceremony also involves the presentation of other regalia, including the orb, sceptre, and ring. The Sovereign’s orb is a golden globe surmounted by a cross to remind monarch that their power is derived from God. The sceptre represents the crown’s power and governance, and the ring is a symbol of royal dignity.

The monarch takes an oath to uphold the laws of the land and to protect the Church of England. Following this, they are robed in coronation garments and seated on the Coronation Chair, also known as King Edward’s Chair, which has been used for this purpose since the 14th century.

One of the most famous coronations in British history is that of Queen Elizabeth I in 1559, which followed a period of cultural and political change, and reflected the power and prestige of the Tudor dynasty.

The coronation of King Charles II in 1661, followed the restoration of the monarchy after the English Civil War and the rule of Oliver Cromwell.

More recently, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 was the first to be broadcast on television, allowing millions of people around the world to witness the historic occasion.

The coronation of King Charles lll will be a captivating blend of history, tradition, and pageantry, and I for one will be glued to the television.

Kate McCarthy

Mac’s Private Hire

Mac’s Private Hire

Village Tweet Quick Crossword Solution

24 hours a day – 7 days a week 01403 701 842

24 hours a day – 7 days a week 01403 701 842 07917 850 746

07917 850 746

Puzzle on page 7

Airports - Social & Business - Lady Driver Available

Airports - Social & Business - Lady Driver Available

Wisborough Green Based

Wisborough Green Based

Across: 7, TRAUMA. 8, ARCHED. 9, RENT. 10, LAUNDERS. 11, ETCHING. 13, AMBER. 15, ACRID. 17, TOBACCO. 20, HABITATS. 21, PALE. 22, CENSOR. 23, ENRICH. Down: 1, ARDENT. 2, PUNT. 3, GARLAND. 4, VAGUE. 5, ACADEMIA. 6, DEGREE. 12, HAIRIEST. 14, BOASTED. 16, CHAPEL. 18, CALICO. 19, DAIRY. 21, PURR.

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

Rates: www.villagetweet.co.uk

SLINFOLD TENNIS CLUB

• Three all-weather, all-year floodlit artificial clay courts

• Ample barrier-operated access to private car parking

• Bespoke modern clubhouse and large seated veranda and terrace for meet-ups, quizzes and socials

• Thriving club sessions suitable for all abilities

• Competitive team tennis in Sussex leagues as well as internal tournaments

• LTA-registered coaching for Adults and Juniors, starters and team players

• Highly competitive membership fee – Adult at £140 pa and Juniors at £28 pa

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

www.dandelionfarewells.com

Local Age UK lifeline under threat as demand soars during cost of living crisis

Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove’s Information and Advice helpline is currently under threat as funding cuts, the cost of living crisis and a drop in donations have all impacted on the service for older people.

Due to increased demand, the charity is unable to keep up with all enquiries and despite its best efforts, calls from some of the most vulnerable in the community are going unanswered.

Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH) is launching a fundraising appeal to help give older people a lifeline through this crisis. The lifeline appeal aims to support the charity and cover the cost of employing more specialist advisers. As little as £5 or £10 will help man the phones, supporting callers with their worries, concerns or queries. £50 will help provide tailored training for an advisor, enabling them to respond to some of the most common appeals for help.

Liz Ansell, Helpline Manager said, “This is such a tough time for us, funding cuts and increased costs may mean we have to consider reducing staffing at a time when we’re needed the most. Every day we get calls from older people living alone who are in tears about their financial situation, or who are feeling lonely and isolated. I know there are others who are trying to get

through, but can’t. I hate that we’re letting people down, but demand is so high, we just can’t be there for everyone who needs us right now. I know times are tough for most, but if you’re able to support our fundraising campaign, the money will help us to be there for people who have nowhere else to turn.”

The Information and Advice team provides great value for money. For every £1 spent on the team, the charity is able to access approximately £18 in benefits/grants for older people.

Advisers on the helpline can provide up to date information and advice on a whole range of topics, not just financial matters. Housing needs, finding help at home, health and social care, family and personal matters, leisure and social activities, plus advice for carers is all covered. Older people who need support can contact the helpline by calling 0800 019 1310, lines are open 9am-2pm, Monday to Friday.

Age UK WSBH is relying on donations to help as many people as possible right now. Donations to the Age UK WSBH Lifeline Appeal can be made by telephone on 0800 019 1310, by visiting www.ageukwsbh.org.uk or scan the QR code above. Thank you so much for your support.

Sally Sharpe, Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove

Tennis Open Day – for all the family

Join us for some free Tennis Coaching –just turn up in your trainers, with or without a tennis racket at Billingshurst Tennis Club at the Recreation Ground on Lower Station Road between 2pm and 5pm on 28th May. Extra rackets and balls will be available.

Sunday 28th May, 2pm-5pm

Alex and his team at Foxy Coaching, along with members from the Club, will welcome you to enjoy some free group coaching sessions for all to join in. Everyone is welcome, kids, teenagers, families and adults – have a go at trying out some fun tennis in group coaching sessions.

Billingshurst Tennis Club at The Recreation Ground, Lower Station Road

www.billingshursttennisclub.com

Run Barns Green wins prestigious race award

Run Barns Green has been awarded the BARR (British Association of Road Races) Committee Award for 2022. Run Barns Green was put forward for the award through a nomination from Paul Wood who was the BARR Race Inspector at the 2022 Run Barns Green event.

The award is recognition for the organisation, efficiency and coordination of running events and part of the prize includes a place in the 2023 TCS London Marathon This has been given to Claire Giles who is one of the Run Barns Green Committee Members. Claire is an experienced runner having taken part in numerous half marathons since her first at Barns Green in 2014, as well as 10 marathons and 2 ultra marathons in the past 12 years. However, she has never before managed to get a place in the London Marathon.

Claire commented, “I am absolutely delighted to have been given a place in one of the most iconic races in the world. It is a great tribute to Run Barns Green and I shall be running in memory of my

father Michael Cooper.”

This year’s TCS London Marathon returned to its normal April date having moved to the autumn for the past two years as a result of COVID.

Chairman of Run Barns Green, Nigel Currie, commented, “This is a real honour for our event and just acknowledgment for the brilliant work of all the volunteers who give us such invaluable help and support. Last year we added the Jennings Junior Jog for 4-11 year olds to our portfolio of races and we are adding a new 5K race to this year’s event. BARR has been a great supporter of our event and we have relied heavily on their expertise to help us to take our event forward”.

The 2023 Run Barns Green will take place on 24th September and entries are already open through the website. Full details of how to enter are at runbarnsgreen.org.uk.

Nigel Currie, Chairman, Run Barns Green Committee

Photo: Claire Giles after completing the half marathon at Run Barns Green last year

belle birth & fertility

Fertility and Birth are life-changing events. Make them the best they can possibly be.

Hypnobirthing & Fertility Mentor

Private and Group courses available jodalziel.co.uk

Email: jo@jodalziel.co.uk Tel: 07779 095121

This space could be promoting your business to over 9500 homes for just £49*

(or even less with a multi-booking discount) Call: 07762 767084 or email: editor@villagetweet.co.uk

*Excludes VAT (£58.80 inc VAT)

Billingshurst Schedule May

Date Time Trip Description

Tuesday 2nd 1.00pm Shoreham Airport

Wednesday 3rd 9.30am Denbies Vineyard – Joint trip with Wisborough Division

Friday 5th 1.00pm Hilliers Garden Centre, Horsham

Tuesday 9th 2.00pm Lidl Billingshurst

Wednesday 10th 9.00am Eastbourne & Paradise Park

Friday 12th 11.00am Old Barn Garden Centre for lunch & tea

Tuesday 16th 10.00am Mystery Drive

Wednesday 17th 10.00am Worthing & Haskins

Tuesday 23rd 10.00am Bosham

Wednesday 24th 10.00am Chichester Market Day

Friday 26th 11.00am Sea Lane Café at Goring by Sea

Tuesday 30th 10.00am Mystery drive

Wednesday 31st 9.00am Eastbourne & Paradise Park

Horsham & Sainsbury’s trips on Thursdays 4th and 18th May at 9.00am Tesco Broadbridge Heath shopping trips on Thursdays 11th and 25th May at 1.00pm

St Catherine’s Hospice is calling on the local community in West Sussex and East Surrey to help mark its 40th anniversary by sharing their memories of the charity for a time capsule which will be buried at its new hospice site at Pease Pottage in July.

2023 is a big year for the charity which will be celebrating the opening of its new hospice in late autumn and 40 years since it first opened its hospice doors on Malthouse Road, Crawley, providing vital palliative and end-of-life support to the local community.

St Catherine’s would love to hear what the charity has meant to the community it supports. All the contributions will be included in a ‘Book of Memories’ that will be placed in the time capsule. To submit your memories, St Catherine’s has created a page on its website where members of the public can:

• Send a photo of a loved one the hospice has cared for, with a short caption about that special person

• Send a short video message explaining why St Catherine’s is important to you

• Get creative! Write a short poem, paint a picture or

FRIDAY 2 - SATURDAY 3 JUNE 2023

THE STARS COME OUT TO PLAY at Midhurst Rother College

GYLES

Saturday 3 June 11.30am - 1.00pm

An audience with the brilliant raconteur and TV personality

BERNARD D’ASCOLI

Saturday 3 June 7.30pm - 9.20pm

www.petworthfestival.org.uk

compose a song. St Catherine’s would love to receive anything inspired by its work.

St Catherine’s Chief Executive Giles Tomsett says, “To mark our significant past and our exciting future, we will be burying a time capsule in our new hospice grounds at the start of July. The time capsule will be a wonderful legacy of our first 40 years. We would love to include as many contributions as possible for future staff, volunteers and supporters to uncover on our 80th anniversary in 2063!

“We really hope the local community gets involved with this exciting project and helps us remember this historic year for the charity.”

St Catherine’s cares 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. Eight in ten people cared for by St Catherine’s are supported in the comfort of their own home.

To send your time capsule contributions visit stch.org.uk/time-capsule. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday 31st May.

Anna Jackson, Communications and PR Manager

ARE YOU LOCAL?

St Catherine’s time capsule – share your memories! THE JUNE EDITION

Are you a person who cares about your future, the community and the society we live in?

For over 104 years, Billingshurst has had a Women’s Institute supporting each other in our rural community. The WI cares about our future, our children’s future and the society we live in.

Originally started to help guide and educate women in rural communities, the Women’s Institute membership has continued to grow and thrive throughout our country. The WI has always been a significant force for change championing women in the community and addressing issues that affect our daily lives. The WI celebrated its centenary in 2015, has almost 220,000 members and 6,300 local institutes. We are proud to be one of them. We meet once a month in the afternoons, listen to and enjoy a speaker on a topical issue, care about our members and endorse activities such as outings and local clubs to maintain a sense of community. Our website, www.thewi.org.uk, gives a comprehensive overview of our past and current activities. It’s a great read! If you would like to consider joining us, you can attend one of our monthly meetings as a guest (information is always in the monthly Village Tweet) or ring Denise on 07714 212637 to discuss further. Billingshurst is changing and our population is growing. Let’s ensure it meets the needs of women and their families in this rural environment

The acclaimed pianist plays Ravel, Schubert and Chopin

A Good Read

May’s selection from book reviewer Tash Donovan

The Alice Network – Kate Quinn

The Alice Network is set in the aftermath of World War Il though it straddles both world wars, and follows two women, Charlie St Clair and Eve Gardiner, as they navigate the dangerous world of espionage in search of a lost relative.

Charlie St Clair is a young American woman who is pregnant out of wedlock. She is sent to Europe by her family to have the ‘problem’ taken care of. But she breaks free to search for her cousin Rose, who disappeared during the war. She meets Eve Gardiner, a former spy for the Alice Network, a secret organisation of female spies, who now spends her day drunk, haunted by her past. Together, the two women embark on a journey to find Rose and uncover the truth about her disappearance.

As they delve deeper into the world of espionage and the aftermath of the war, they encounter a cast of characters, including former spies, soldiers, and politicians, who each have their own secrets. The two women must navigate this dangerous world, relying on their wits and the support of each other to stay alive.

The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the aftermath of war. Its powerful

narrative is a testament to the bravery and resilience of women in a time when their roles were often limited. Quinn’s novel is wellresearched and beautifully written and will appeal both to fans of historical fiction and anyone who enjoys a page-turning spy thriller.

Letters from the Lighthouse – Emma Carroll Letters from the Lighthouse is set during World War II. The story follows two siblings, Olive and Cliff, who are evacuated from London to a coastal town in Devon. Their older sister, Sukie, went missing during an air raid and they have no idea where she is, though a note found in Sukie’s coat pocket suggesting that she was involved in something dangerous.

Then, among the close-knit community where they’ve been evacuated, Olive discovers something which ties Sukie to a plot as dangerous as it is puzzling. What do the mysterious letters that the children receive from the lighthouse on the coast mean? Written by a shadowy figure known only as ‘The Keeper’, they provide Olive and Cliff with clues which send the siblings off on a dangerous adventure that takes them through the streets of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Through their encounters with a spy, a resistance fighter, and a band of smugglers, they must use their wits and their courage to stay alive and

FIND & REPAIR A LEAK from only £150 MOSS REMOVAL from only £295 RE-POINTING CHIMNEYS from only £275 VALLEY, GABLE & RIDGE RE-POINTING from only £470 UP TO 50% OFF SELECTED ROOFING

01403 613036

15% OFF WITH THIS AD

Fire Safety Tips from Billingshurst Fire Station

You will hear us talk a lot about having working smoke detectors in your homes, and we will continue to push to make sure all properties have smoke detectors. Whilst we visit homes to carry out safe and well visits we talk about what you could do to help prevent a fire from starting in the first place.

Faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 4,000 fires in the home across the country every year.

How to avoid electrical fires

Always check that you use the right fuse to prevent overheating. Make sure an electrical appliance has a British or European safety mark when you buy it. Certain appliances, such as washing machines, should have a single plug to themselves, as they are high powered. Try and keep to one plug per socket. When charging electrical goods, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and look for the CE mark that indicates chargers comply with European safety standards.

In the kitchen

Take extra care if you need to leave the kitchen while cooking, take pans off the heat or turn them down to avoid risk. Avoid cooking when under the influence of alcohol. Avoid leaving children in the kitchen alone when cooking on the hob. Keep matches and saucepan handles out of children’s reach and not sticking out. Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing – they can

easily catch fire. Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob. Spark devices are safer than matches or lighters to light gas cookers, because they don’t have a naked flame. Double check the cooker is off when you’ve finished cooking.

Candles

Snuff out candles when you leave the room, and make sure they’re out completely at night. Children shouldn’t be left alone with lit candles. Consider using LED or batteryoperated candles. Keep pets away from lit candles.

Escape routes

Plan an escape route and make sure everyone knows how to escape. Make sure exits are kept clear. The best route is the normal way in and out of your home but plan a second route in case the first one is blocked. Take a few minutes to practice your escape plan. Review your plan if the layout of your home changes. Keep calm and act quickly, get everyone out as soon as possible. Don’t waste time investigating what’s happened or rescuing valuables. If there’s smoke, keep low where the air is clearer. Before you open a door check if it’s warm. If it is, don’t open it – fire is on the other side. Call 999 as soon as you’re clear of the building. 999 calls are free. Twitter: @Station49Fire

Facebook: Billingshurst Fire Station

Dan Game, Billingshurst Fire Station

Email the Editor for a 24-page PDF of Fire Safety in the Home

GB Glazing Ltd

Drainage Problem?

We are specialists in off-mains drainage providing solutions to outdated septic tanks or cesspits. We only use top branded manufacturers such as Klargester.

We have been installing packaged sewage treatment plants for over 35 years. Please get in touch if you need help.

Email: chris@cjgroundworks.com

07881 757 877 / 01403 733 214 www.cjsewagetreatment.com

Over 20 years experience with traditional and modern furniture

We provide all upholstery services including:

Loose covers • Fitted covers

Full upholstery • Headboards

Cushions • Window seats

Tel: 01798 368008

www.pandwjordan‐upholstery.co.uk

Oil Boiler Installations

Servicing etc

Air source heat pumps

Unvented systems

Underfloor heating Bathrooms & Kitchens

Tel: 07742 716698 & 01403 432599

Web: jcplumbingheatingservices.com

The Renegades say ‘Tanks for the memories!’

The Renegades Youth Club stuck to its guns and delivered – by request – a special day out to London’s Imperial War Museum to kick start the Easter school holidays.

“It’s an unwritten rule that the members just have to say where they would like to go or what they would like to do and we’ll do our best to make it happen,” says Group Leader Gareth Miller.

“The Imperial War Museum was particularly popular, and our visit was timed to coincide with an exhibition called ‘War Games’, which was about cyber technology and how video game technology is used to shape real wars. It looked at the similarities between an Xbox console and a main battle tank gun control system. The kids – and their dads – were fascinated.

“The same with the replica nuclear weapons – the Little Boy bomb, which was dropped on Hiroshima and had a uranium core, and the Fat Man bomb which was dropped on Nagasaki and had a plutonium core. Their jaws dropped just standing next to the first weapon of mass destruction, even though it was a replica.”

Having been dwarfed by the battleship guns outside the museum, the kids then loved seeing the front of a Lancaster bomber, learning the difference between a

rocket and a missile, between a tank and an armoured car, and between a Hotchkiss and a Willys jeep.

“Thanks to grants and donations we have been able to increase our camera inventory and so the kids were able to use DSLR cameras to record what interested them most. I gave them the challenge of taking photos of ten things that most floated their boats and they will present those images to the rest of the club over the coming weeks,” says Gareth.

“If anyone has a DSLR camera they no longer use and would like to find a good home for it, we’d be immensely grateful. It’s such a good creative exercise for the kids and grows their confidence in sharing the photos with the rest of the club.”

The next trips will be to the Tate Gallery and the Science Museum.

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

Photo: WW2 Sherman M4A4 tank fascinated The Renegades

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 are several celebratory events taking place in the parish of Billingshurst over that weekend. See page 9 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 and there will be posters on our noticeboards as well for those without access to the internet.

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.

Plant Sale

Billingshurst Horticultural Society will be holding their Plant Sale on Saturday 13th May at the Women’s Hall, High Street, Billingshurst between

10am and 12 noon. There will be plants, produce, refreshments, cakes and a raffle. All enquiries to Mrs B. Barraclough – tel: (01403) 784599. Do come along early as this is a very popular event.

Sign up to our Council E-Newsletter

Did you know that you can sign up to receive emails directly from the Council; this is entirely voluntary and is GDPR compliant. You can be assured you will not be bombarded with hundreds of emails, but it could be that we want to notify you of an important planning application, a public consultation or a severe weather warning. You can unsubscribe at any time so why not give it a try? You can subscribe by clicking on E-Newsletter signup on our Facebook and Twitter pages, or search information on the NEWSFEED page of our website www.billingshurst.gov.uk

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 (May)

4th: Planning & Environment Committee

10th: Full Council/Trustees

17th: Property Committee

31st: 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

Wey & Arun Canal Trust seeks information following vandalism at Loxwood

On the morning of Sunday 2nd April major damage to the restored Wey & Arun Canal in Loxwood was discovered.

During the night of Saturday/Sunday 1st/2nd April electrical control equipment for pumps was destroyed and water was released from the canal causing major damage which is likely to cost more than £50,000 to repair. In addition, with water released, some planned boat trips had to be cancelled, disappointing all those who have booked a family trip and resulting in a loss of income for the Canal Trust. The sudden loss of water also has implications for fish and other wildlife in the canal.

Multiple pumping control locations were attacked and padlocks on canal locks removed to release water down the canal. The Canal Trust has reported the crime to the police and is working to assess the extent of damage and the repairs required. Some temporary repairs were carried out on Tuesday 4th April to attempt to refill the sections of canal used for boat trips.

The Trust will launch a fundraising campaign as soon as possible to help meet the costs of repair and lost income from cancelled boat trips.

The Canal Trust is a charity and a volunteer-led organisation. The Trust does not receive any regular

support from public funds. Money to repair the damage will have to come from funds donated to restore and improve the canal.

The damage is a major blow to our volunteers who have put in so much work to restore and improve the canal through Loxwood in the last few years. The local community use the canal for recreation whether walking, cycling, horse-riding in addition to those who get on the water to kayak, paddleboard or enjoy a boat trip with the Trust.

Sally Schupke, the Chair of the Trust said, “This is a major shock for the Canal Trust and our brilliant volunteers. Our Easter boat trips are in jeopardy and the financial hit to the Trust will impact other improvements planned to the canal.”

Anyone with any information which might assist inquiries as to who might have been involved in causing this damage should contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting ‘0731 of 2/4/23’ or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Gill Davies, Press and Publications Assistant

Photos: damaged pumping control box led to loss of water

www.villagetweet.co.uk

PJM FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS

New builds and extensions

A little of what we do:

Refurbishments and conversions

Property maintenance

Loft conversions Electrics Plumbing Bathroom and Kitchen installation

Wood / multi-fuel burning stoves, chimneys and flue installation Oak framed garages

Paving, patios and decking

Solar Photo Voltaic systems

And much more

Please follow the contact details below for your competitive free no obligation quote PJM, 6 Northlands Cottages, Northlands Road, Warnham, West Sussex RH12 3SQ

Mobile: Peter 07976 816311

Landline: 01306 627306

Email: office@pjm.org.uk

Website: www.pjm.org.uk

Music Bus at the Women’s Hall

The Women’s Hall is a real gem for all of us at ‘Music Bus’. Since we started back at the hall in autumn 2021 (post-COVID) we have seen many developments which have made the experience a delight for us, our children and parents.

The flooring has been completely refurbished making it a safe and comfortable space to hold our classes. The extension to the kitchen (Coopers Cabin) has made it easy to run light refreshments for the children and their parents in our social time.

Thursdays really are the highlight to the week! The hall, which is so central to the village, is a hive of fun. The children arriving create a real buzz while waiting for their friends to join the start of our music-making. The acoustics in the hall provide the perfect setting to make lots and lots of noise. Using the stage as our backdrop

creates the perfect amount of suspense and curiosity when finding out what is in the bag and when we reveal the Musical Box.

The 14 years that ‘Music Bus’ has been at the Women’s Hall have been such a success! Since we first started, arriving in a red Morris Minor (which certainly got us spotted), hundreds of families have passed through our doors – some even deciding to work with us, as with Beck, our current assistant.

We love being based in this historic building founded by such pioneering women. As a small business, we love to champion other small businesses, women in business, and take inspiration from the Beck sisters who worked to improve the lives of local women and children.

Georgina Richardson

Photo: Parents and children in a rare moment of calm!

Seagull City

Once upon a time at a holiday home near Camber Sands…

Itwas nearly time for the family to go home and as he was dozing in his place on the sofa

Magnus laughed to himself about the seagulls. There were so many of them, he thought that the place should be called ‘Seagull City’! There were seagulls at the beach, around the caravans on their roofs and there were millions always resting on the roof of the entertainment centre! In fact, one of the cups sold at the shop had seagulls all over it which just proved his point!

At times there were thunderous noises on the roof and Poppy got herself into a state wondering what was happening. She’d jump around and squeal looking at the roof until Grandad told her to stop being so silly. Even when they went out for walks around the caravans they’d be stamping around large as life and totally unafraid of the dogs or Nanny. Poppy of course tried to chase them, but Nanny was trying to teach her (as instructed) to ‘look and leave’. That instruction was also for other dogs, pushchairs, prams, small children and anyone running past. Nanny was having some small successes, but it was hard work. Poppy was just so impulsive. Magnus of course prided himself of being past all that nonsense.

One of the funniest incidents occurred one day when Magnus looked out from the car to see Nanny coming out of the washing machine place. A seagull took off from the roof quite suddenly; Nanny was startled but just carried on. It wasn’t until the afternoon, when they’d gone for a walk on the beach that Pascal, the lovely Security man at

the gate, told Nanny she’d been dive bombed by a seagull. Sure enough, all down the back of her jacket was the evidence. It took her two washes and Grandad finally doing the job before the jacket was finally clean.

On another day when the wind was really blowing very hard, Nanny noticed that a seagull had let fly just as it flew off the roof of their house. It was all splattered down the back of the house. It didn’t take too long to clean off but it was a nuisance to have to do it. Then the wind changed direction and Nanny came back to see the front door and the front wall ‘decorated’. Easy to clean, but not fun in the shiveringly cold wind. Magnus thought that one was really funny too. Nanny didn’t.

The final straw happened one afternoon, when Grandad said to Nanny, “Those seagulls are building their nest on next door’s roof.” Sure enough, all around the skylight was a mess of sticks and bits and pieces. It looked a bit loose and untidy. They decided to tell someone about it the next day, but in the night it grew very windy again. In the morning Nanny noticed that the mess of sticks and bits had disappeared. She was very pleased, and Grandad was too.

Nanny and Grandad were beginning to talk more about going home and things were being put into bags and boxes, so their time away was nearly done. Magnus wondered what had been happening at that little farm near Billingshurst but that’s a story for another day.

Yvonne Fleece

Seagulls – mug shot

Sussex Coin Company Sussex Coin Company

We will be buying the following: Coins, gold, silver and copper coins, old or modern English or foreign, collections or left over holiday coins, pre-1947 English silver coins (15 x face-value paid), banknotes. Medals, war medals, police medals, masonic medals, fire brigade medals. Military items and war souvenirs. Swords, daggers, bayonets, uniforms, badges, helmets. Antique guns. Gold, silver and costume jewellery. We pay the highest prices for your unwanted gold and silver, We use trading standards approved scales to weigh your gold and silver, We buy old or modern rings, bracelets, chains, ear rings, brooches, necklaces. Wind-up wrist and pocket watches, The following makes are always of value: Omega, Rolex, International Watch Company, Longines, Tudor. Collectors’ items and curios. We are well known for buying the unusual, old photographs, cigarette cards, petrol lighters, vestas, postcards, car badges and mascots, curios. Silver and quality silver plate including tea sets, candlesticks, cutlery, ashtrays, cigarette cases and boxes, cruets. English and foreign silver purchased.

Sussex Coin Company have been established in Worthing since 1968. If you cannot come and see us on the day we make free home visits with no obligation to sell your items. We pay the highest prices for items we purchase. Payment by cash or cheque.

The Spaniel Diaries

Ithink I may have to bite the weatherman! The recent deluge of rain is most unwelcome. I was looking forward to long evening walks in spring sunshine but instead I have been wading through mud and puddles in horizontal rain getting very wet, I’m surprised I haven’t grown webbed feet yet!

Mum is hating the mud and wasn’t happy as her wellies have sprung a leak. On the other hand Mav and Goose seem to love the water – what a pair of idiots, especially that silly puppy, he charges around in all the muddy puddles them refuses to get back in the car. It’s hilarious to see mum have to pick the filthy wet creature up and put him in, that’ll teach her to think he’s cute! Mav has also taken to stalking the ducks who have come to roost on the new lake although they take the Mickey out of him as they are long gone before he even gets near!

I am looking forward to our Bluebell walk soon as it’s really beautiful up in the woods although mum insists on taking the camera and making us pose for pictures – I would much rather be allowed to just wander around sniffing, it’s going to be interesting to see what the puppy makes of the carpet of flowers! If he thinks he’s going to be looning around running through them he’d better think again as mum doesn’t let us damage the flowers. The other thing I look forward to is the lunch afterwards; we get treated to something delicious while mum and dad have lunch at the pub.

I am booked in for the dreaded haircut and bath again, mum says I look scruffy after the long winter – the cheek, so does she! I smell nice thanks a combination of smelly ditch water and whatever delight I have found to roll in is perfect in my doggy world, but according to her I stink so my fate is sealed and I shall be all white and fluffy and perfumed again. Well, I shall be searching even harder for some lovely fox poo to roll in and sort that out!

It’s getting busy at the stables now the show season has started. I love sitting on the yard watching the world go by while the big hairy grass munching machines are being washed ready for a day out – about time they earned their keep, they live in the lap of luxury eating and sleeping – a bit like me really! Us dogs have been taught to have good manners around the horses and if we are out walking and we meet a horse and rider mum always calls us over and pops our leads on and makes us wait while they go past. Mum has said there have been quite a few reports of dogs chasing and even biting horses on the News lately and it’s not acceptable – me personally I give horses a wide berth as I don’t want to get kicked! Hopefully we’ll get to go swimming again soon, I will see if the puppy is as elegant as me in the water, he should be because his legs are Iike mine – a sensible length not like Mav’s stupid long legs which make him swim like a drowning meerkat!

Jeannette Douglas

Hypertension in Cats

Hypertension is a medical term for high blood pressure, a disorder well known in people. Did you know that cats can be hypertensive too? Often termed the ‘silent killer’, hypertension can go undiagnosed for a long period of time due to there being no obvious outward signs.

In cats, hypertension can damage key body organs, including the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain. More than 80% of hypertensive cats present with sudden onset blindness.

Hypertension is more common in mature cats, affecting 1 in 5 cats from 9 years of age.

• All cats aged 7 years or older should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year

• Those with pre-existing conditions such as chronic kidney disease or hyperthyroidism should be checked every 6 months. Testing your cat’s blood pressure is easy, quick and painless. The test is carried out by using a small inflatable cuff similar to the equipment used for people. Eye examination can also provide clues as to any damage that may have been caused by hypertension.

Early diagnosis is key to fighting hypertension and early treatment can prevent blindness due to high blood pressure.

If your cat is over the age of 7, ask your vet about making blood pressure tests part of their annual health check.

Sophie Hall B.V.Sc., M.R.C.V.S.

Garden View

Granny’s Bonnets

There is something quite lovely about Aquilegias bobbing in the breeze. They provide exquisite flowers, which are great for cutting in May and early June, and come in a variety of colours. Even the foliage is attractive.

Known as Granny’s bonnet or Columbine, this delicate-looking flower is actually an undemanding hardy perennial, is unfussy about soil and tolerant of full sun or partial shade. What’s not to like? The plants grow to about 60cm so work well in the middle of a border, where they will happily self-seed and spread the joy.

If you want to plant seedlings rather than seeds, sow thinly on to moist compost in a seed tray. If they are slow to germinate they may need stratification, the posh word for subjecting seeds to a cold/warm cycle to trick them into thinking they have been through a cold winter. Cover the seed tray with polythene and put in a fridge at 05°C for two to three weeks. Remove the tray and place in a greenhouse or on a windowsill at approx. 18-21°C. Remove the polythene when the seeds start to germinate. Transplant the seedlings into 7cm pots and allow to grow into sturdy plants. Plant out in the border about 45cm apart in groups of three-five plants for a more naturalistic look.

However, at this time of year I just sow directly outdoors, where I want them to flower.

If you are planting established plants from a garden centre, remove the packaging and stand the pots upright in a bucket of water for 20 minutes, to give the roots a good drink. Then

plant in prepared ground in small groups.

Once the aquilegia plants have established, they shouldn’t need additional watering. You might want to cut back the foliage after flowering if the leaves are beginning to look scruffy. Give the plant a drink and a mulch of compost, and it will reward you with a fresh flush of foliage in a few weeks.

Aquilegias need very little after-care once they are established. They will self-seed and although offspring rarely look like their parents, they will still be very pretty. I personally like the naturalistic look.

The plant is a member of the poisonous Ranunculus family and all parts of the plant, including the seeds, are poisonous if ingested.

To collect the seeds from your aquilegia plants, wait for the flower to die back to an attractive papery seed head. Use a paper bag to hold over the stem and tap until all the seeds land in the bag. Alternatively cut the stems and hang upside down inside a large paper bag to dry and catch all the seed in the bag. Store in a paper envelope once they are completely dry and label carefully, noting that they are toxic if eaten.

Aquilegias are quintessential cottage garden favourites with nectar-rich flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bumblebees, butterflies and moths. This makes them a fantastic, easy-to-grow wildlife-friendly choice.

Happy gardening!

Rachel Leverton

Hedge Cutting, Leaf Clearance Garden Maintenance

Mobile: 07503 072011

Landline: 01403 784746

Email: jmbgardening@outlook.com

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

Julian Bargman

West Chiltington Floral Club

Tuesday 16th May, 7 for 7.30pm start. Our very own Brenda Bull will lead our

Visitors are most welcome, £5 but must book in advance – contact Brenda for worksheet/materials

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

May Time… again!

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,

I hope that you, like me, are at last welcoming the coming of the warmer weather of early summer… at last! I write this in the wet and dismal month of March, so I trust that May is bringing the joys of sunshine and balmy breezes to you and your loved ones.

My topic for this month is directed to those of you who, like me, have the good fortune to have a garden. Wonderful things, gardens. They bring joy in the beauty and scent of flowers that delight the eye and nose. They supply the taste of fresh fruit and vegetables to the table and delicious salads to cool the palette on hot summer days. So what can possibly be even slightly negative about them.

Well… I’m sitting here in March and regarding my own garden with rather mixed feelings. The winter has passed and all the areas exposed to my gaze through the window now scream with one united voice: “Get your backside out here and do something!”

So the other day I ventured outside as a watery sun and chilly east wind dried the grass enough to entice me to the garden shed. There, in the darkest region, lurked the lawn mower. It’s laid there since the autumn. Alone, neglected, unwashed, and untouched. I dragged it out into the daylight and moaned as dried lumps of dead grass and mud fell in clumps across the shed floor. That’ll teach me won’t it? No, I doubt it.

I checked the oil level, and tried to ignore the fact that the black syrup-like gunge that was attached to the dip stick was begging for renewal. I quickly moved to the fuel cap. Luckily there was still some two-stroke fuel in the can at the rear of the shed so I filled the tank and out onto the lawn we went.

Why for the life of me I should have expected the poor machine to start I fail to see, and it speaks volumes for the Briggs and Stratton manufacturer that after only ten minutes of sweating and swearing in equal quantities it burst into life.

The next hour was spent in exhausting effort

shearing grass and moss in equal amounts from the area I call the lawn. Worth it though. Lovely lines… sadly dotted with dropped clumps of soggy cuttings that refused to enter the collection box, these forming after succumbing to a prodding with a stick that then persuaded them to scatter over the areas already mown. Then it was back to its home in the shed, uncleaned, of course, and with a silent promise that I will replace the drive belt and blade sometime soon. Perhaps.

Finally, back indoors for refreshments and recouping from all the aches and pains that had suddenly surfaced.

That was just the lawn folks! Flower beds still need digging and mulching, vegetable seeds sowing and young plants selected from one of the catalogues that have poured through the letterbox since the end of December. Shrubs need pruning and supporting and stakes readjusted while I can still get to them. I must confess I do envy those keen gardeners who have all these things under control long before it all becomes a losing race against time.

My dear late father-in-law was a professional antique restorer. He could take broken and shattered pieces of long-neglected furniture that looked fit only for the bonfire, and a few days later produce from his workshop a wonderful restored piece that anyone would be proud to have in their house. However, the chairs at his own dining table would squeak and protest as you sat on them as their legs and stretchers moved beneath you. So it is with me and my garden I’m afraid. A horticulturist for over 60 years, proudly producing fruit, salad crops and garden plants in a commercial capacity. But… my own garden… oh dear… just enough to get by I’m afraid.

What about you my friends? Are you of similar persuasion? Accountants who can’t budget their own households? Decorators whose houses desperately need a lick of paint? Plumbers who have leaking pipes. Doctors who need treatment, or mechanics whose cars rattle? We all know someone don’t we?

Such is life, such is life! Happy gardening!

John Nash

How we can all help Nature Bloom

World Earth Day on 22nd April raised awareness of the climate and biodiversity crisis and educated on how to take action to mitigate it. It also marked 11 years since the launch of environmental charity, Sussex Green Living.

An essential ally against the climate crisis is nature. We are losing nature at an alarming and unprecedented rate. For anyone who has been watching Sir David Attenborough’s latest BBC programme, Wild Isles, you will know that Britain is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.

In the last 50 years over 38 million birds have disappeared from UK skies, 97% of our wildflower meadows have been lost since the 1930s, and over one quarter of our mammals are at risk now.

Biodiversity and climate are inextricably linked, you can’t fix one without the other. And as Sir David Attenborough wisely says, “The truth is, every one of us, no matter who we are, or where we live, can and must play a part in restoring

nature.”

There are lots of things you can do to help wildlife to thrive that don’t cost a lot but can help nature, boost biodiversity and create a lovely space for you.

Start by filling it with native plants, Cowslips and Primroses are great for pollinators likes bees and butterflies.

Climbing plants like Clematis are a good source food for birds and small mammals, as is the honeysuckle which is also where the white admiral butterfly lays its eggs.

Use a good peat-free compost; there’s no point destroying fragile wildlife homes elsewhere to try and make our own spaces better for wildlife.

Plants don’t stop being useful once they’ve finished growing. Gathering dead leaves and fallen branches into a pile will add nutrients back to your garden and encourage other wildlife to visit.

Melanie Nurse, Sussex Green Living

Photo: Wildflower garden

What’s On – May

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

Continued on page 44

Weddings, events, dried flowers & floristry workshops

New wedding and event florist studio now open in Kirdford opposite the village store. Offering bespoke floral design, dried flowers and floristry workshops. Open by appointment only

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. 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

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

30 Apr-1 May Fittleworth Garden Trail 2023. 14 Gardens. £7 to cover both days per person (under 12s free). Plant & book stalls, local artists’ work, Woodland trail, Fulling Mills restoration, book stall. Refreshments in Village Hall. Tickets on the day at Fittleworth Village Hall. Enquiries Charles Clark, tel: (01798) 865202

2 May 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

2 May The Arts Society West Sussex lecture by Chloe Sayer: ‘The Incas and their predecessors through their Art and Textiles’. 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

2 May 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

3 May The Arts Society – South Downs lecture by John Iddon: ‘Lucien Freud and the Man’. 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

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

4 May 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

4 May 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

5 May Coronation Tea Party. Billingshurst Centre. 3.30-5.30pm. £7.50 in advance from Centre. See page 9

7 May Community Picnic. Station Road Gardens. 1-4pm. Children’s entertainer and more. See page 9

8 May The ‘Big Help Out’. Station Rd Gdns. 9.30am-1pm. Volunteers needed for maintenance. See page 9

10 May 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

10 May Parish Council Full Council & Trustees meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7.30pm

11 May Open Mic Night. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7.30pm. The evening is supported by a house band and hosted by Nigel Sanctuary, a local musician, who is passionate about discovering the best local talent. Our fully stocked bar will be open and whether you are singing or watching, this evening is free entry. We look forward to seeing you. Please email jackie@cranleigharts.org to find out more or book a slot

11 May Billingshurst Horticultural Society Talk: ‘A-Z of Great Plants’ by Mark Saunders. St Gabriel’s Hall, East Street, 8pm. Admission free to members. Visitors welcome £3 (including refreshments). Mrs S Wells, tel: (01403) 784159

11 May Billingshurst WI Talk: ‘Resolutions’. Community Centre, Roman Way. 2.30pm. Interesting speakers, hobby groups, various outings. Visitors welcome. Tel: (01403) 257531 / 07714 212637

Continued on page 46

Buying a secondhand phone

Replacing your mobile phone can be a very expensive process. With the latest iPhones and Android devices selling for over £1000 or £50 per month on contract this is a big outlay.

But for every new phone that is bought an older model appears on the secondhand market. If you’re happy to use a phone that’s one or two years old you can make some amazing savings while still getting an excellent phone. But there are some pitfalls you need to avoid.

For total peace of mind use an official reseller. Apple has an official refurbished shop where you can pick up older iPhone models that have been tested and guaranteed by Apple themselves. Similarly there are a number of reputable companies that refurbish other makes of phones. You’ll pay a slight premium but you know that your phone will work and be in good condition.

eBay is a viable option. Although you won’t be able to handle the phone, a good seller will offer lots of photos highlighting any issues with the device. If you use PayPal to buy the phone you

will get automatic cover from your PayPal account in case the phone you receive doesn’t match the description stated by the seller. This includes the phone not working, being locked or being damaged.

A locked device is the major pitfall to watch out for when buying secondhand. When you buy a new phone you register it against either your Apple or Google account. The phone then becomes locked to that account. So make sure the device you are buying is fully unlocked and wiped clean. If it isn’t this is usually a sign that the phone has been stolen. Phones can also be locked to a mobile phone company so again make sure that this lock has been removed.

After this it’s really down to looking at the condition of the device, especially the screen, buttons, battery and charging port. If any of these are damaged you should walk away.

Unless you are the type of person who has to have the latest model, buying secondhand makes a lo of sense.

Tom Hancock

11 May 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

12 May 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

13 May Billingshurst Horticultural Society Bargain Plant Sale. Women’s Hall, 10am-12 noon. Produce, cakes, raffle and refreshments. Free admission. Mrs S Wells, tel: (01403) 784159

13 May 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

15 Mon 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

15 May 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

16 May 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

16 May 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

17 May Parish Council Property Committee meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7.30pm

18 May 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

19 May 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

19 May Macmillan Film night. ‘Alleluja’. 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

20 May Kids’ Craft – Self Portraits. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 9.30am & 10.30am. Saturday Kids’ Craft will be run by Claire and Emma; sometimes together, sometimes taking turns. Claire is a secondary school trained Art teacher and Emma is a trained Primary school teacher with 7 years’ experience. £8 per session: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

20 May Vivace Chorus: ‘The Italian Job’. Holy Trinity, Guildford. 7.30pm. Vivace Chorus and the Hennessey Brown Music Chamber Orchestra present a programme of Italian choral music including Allegri’s Miserere & Handel’s Dixit Dominus. Tickets: £23, students/U18 £10, plus booking fee: vivacechorus.org

21 May Billingshurst Artisan Market. Six Bells car park. 9.30am-1.30pm. Local foods and crafts. See page 11

21 May Brinsbury Show. Brinsbury Campus, Pulborough, RH20 1DL. 11am-4pm. Fun for all the family, live music, food & drink, have-a-go activities – dog shows, meet the animals, craft fair & farmers market, equine, tractor trailer ride and much more. Tickets: Brinsbury.ac.uk/events £7.50, U16 free. £10 on the day

22 May Macmillan Film night. ‘Alleluja’ 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 May Cranleigh Creatives. Richard Onslow, Cranleigh. 7pm. A friendly group of enthusiastic local crafters who meet one evening a month to socialise, craft and share ideas. Everyone welcome. For further information join our Facebook group (Cranleigh Creatives) or e-mail pearl_caroline@yahoo.co.uk

25 May 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

25 May

Lions Charity Golf Day. Slinfold Golf & Country Club. Proceeds to Chestnut Tree House Hospice. To enter contact Roger Skillin, tel: (01403) 700221. See April’s Village Tweet, page 15

26 May Live Music: Leslie Howard (piano). Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7.30pm. One of the greatest living pianists. Famous for interpretations and recordings of Liszt and Rachmaninoff. “He should look back with the strongest sense of pride, fulfilment and accomplishment” (Gramophone). Tickets £25 inc glass of wine, £10 under 25s: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

27 May

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

27 May Live Music: The Dolly Parton Story. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 8pm. Hannah Richards and Alex Beharrell beautifully perform classics such as Jolene, 9 to 5 and Islands in the Stream and many more. Tickets £20: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit www.cranleighartscentre.org

28 May Billingshurst Tennis Club Open Day. 2-5pm. Just turn up. Rackets and balls provided. See page 13

28 May Slinfold Classic Car Show. Red Lyon. 12 noon. Donation to support St Catherine’s. See page 41

29 May 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

31 May Quiet Garden Afternoon at The Blue Idol. Quaker Meeting House, Oldhouse Lane, Coolham, RH13

8QP. 2-4pm. (Last Weds of the month, May-Sept.) The hosted afternoon will begin with a meditation introduction at 2pm. You are then welcome to stay as long as you like. Booking not required, free. Visit www.blueidol.org, tel: (01403) 740039 or @BlueIdolQuakers on Facebook

31 May Parish Council Billingshurst Centre & F&GP Committees meetings. Billingshurst Centre. 7 & 7.30pm

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

ADVERTISERS INDEX May 2023

A-Team Mechanics............................41

A/c’s Direct, Accounting ......................4

Advanced Landscapes ......................35

Alba Plumbing ...................................23

Amber, Hike the Hill ..........................43

Banks Fencing ..................................37

Belle Birth & Fertilty ..........................15

Best Choice Roofing .........................20

Billingshurst Artisan Market 11

Billingshurst Parish Council 9, 24, 25

Billingshurst Service, Repair & MOT Centre ..................................40

Billingshurst Tennis Club ...................13

Bud and Flower, weddings ................43

CAGNE.............................................43

CJ Sewage Treatment ......................21

Cook Consultancy & Technical Ltd .....4

Cranleigh Camera Club ....................38

Dandelion Farewells, funerals ...........11

DJ Experience ...................................45

DM Handyman ..................................23

Duke of Kent School .........................12

Evans Electrical.................................27

Flackwoods Solicitors..........................7

Flow-serve Plumbing, Drainage, Heating ..........................................17

GB Glazing Ltd ..................................20

George Potbury Forestry ..................39

GJ Coles, builder ..............................29

Goring Road Carpet Centre ..........OBC

Hamilton Cole TV & Satellite Equipment .....................................22

Holly Stone Hypnotherapy ................15

JC Plumbing ......................................21

JMB Gardening Services ..................34

Jonathan Carter, Tree Surgery..........35

KJ Cox Solicitor ...................................6

KJ Lammas Plumbing & Heating ......18

Landsmart.........................................17

Lee’s Locks .......................................29

Mac’s Private Hire ...............................8

Meadow Hall Veterinary Practice ......33

Meadows Wellbeing ..........................14

Miss Mop Domestic Cleaning ...........27

MW Wingate Painting & Decorating .17

MPS Home Improvements Ltd ..........20

N Francis Electrical Ltd .....................22

Oven Cleaning Direct ........................30

Oven Rescue ....................................23

Peacocks Builders.............................21

Pest Man ...........................................34

Peter Faulding (Specialist Group International) ...................................3

Petworth Festival...............................16

Petworth MOT Centre .......................40

PJM Building & Property Maintenance ..................................27

PW Jordan Upholstery ......................21

Rebecca Beauty Therapist ................12

Re-Nu Kitchens .................................26

Regal Roof Care ...............................19

Rudgwick Fencing .............................35

Shutters by Natalie ............................17

Slinfold Classic Car Show .................41

Slinfold Tennis Club 11

South Country, Landscaping .............37

St Catherine’s Hospice .....................10

St Mary’s Church ................................6

Sussex Carpet Brokers .....................28

Sussex Coin Company .....................31

Sussex Towing Brackets ...................41

Time Four ..........................................47

Titchmarsh Services, tree surgery ....39

Village Nurseries ...............................39