elcome to a packed August issue. The Loxwood Joust at Loxwood Meadow is held over three weekends (2nd/3rd, 9th/10th and 16th/17th). See page 33. Another big event not to miss is the Family Activity Day on 9th August at Jubilee Fields. See centre pages for details. Why not give your business a summer boost? Our Rate Card is at at www.villagetweet.co.uk or call me on 07762 767084 for a no obligation chat on how we can promote your business. Grahame
Cover: Billingshurst Show & Carnival Procession first prize was awarded to Dauxwood Preschool with their Lionesses Euros 2025 themed float. Presenting the trophy are Andrew Henderson, World Champion Freestyle footballer, and Natalie Evans, Chairperson, Billingshurst Show Team. Turn to page 4 for the full report
Editorial and Advertising: Grahame Pearson: 07762 767084 editor@villagetweet.co.uk www.villagetweet.co.uk
Another successful Billingshurst Show brought the community together with our Carnival of Champions themed Show on Sunday 29th June 2025.
The show started with the biggest carnival for years, led by Petworth Town Band, which snaked its way along the High Street, St Andrews Hill and Natts Lane, before entering the field on Lower Station Road and forming up in the arena.
Andrew Henderson, a World Champion Freestyle footballer had the difficult job of judging the floats, where standards were once again extremely high. 1st place was awarded to Dauxwood Preschool, who had their float ready for the Lionesses Euros 2025 starting in July. 2nd place was awarded to Wakoos Centre4Children, with their colourful, sport themed float. 3rd place was awarded to Dempsey School of Irish Dancers, with their float and the girls all dancing in time together. Andrew Henderson then opened the Billingshurst Show and performed his football tricks and freestyle to the crowds in the arena, before the fun continued throughout the afternoon. Andrew continued showing off his skills to the aspiring freestylers who came to talk to him and share their own skills.
A variety of stalls catered for everyone with homemade fudge, handmade jewellery, cushions and peg bags, adult and children’s clothing, toys, wine and cider, plants, the grand raffle and much more. Baby zone gave away free sun cream and many local businesses and charities were represented. In between the Punch and Judy shows there was the ever-popular balloon modelling while inflatables, bungee trampolines and archery from Lodge Hill provided activities for everyone to participate in.
We listened to feedback from previous years and provided two food courts, one at either end of the field, with a barbecue, Pimms bar, Hepworth bar, gin bar (G&H Spirits and Arundel Gin) and soft drinks stall, meaning queues moved faster with less waiting time for everyone. Food court 1 hosted the live music tent; new for this year were Church Street Stompers, an 8-piece jazz band, which was very popular and will hopefully return next year. Returning acts included Rob Nicholl, Rock Choir and Petworth Town Band. In food court 2 we had a brand-new dance area, with performances from VMA Dance Group, West
CARNIVAL OF CHAMPIONS –
End Theatre Academy and Dempsey School of Irish Dancers, making the two food court areas very appealing and popular.
The show was treated to a spectacular flypast of a Spitfire and Hurricane.
Greg Burt, the compere for the afternoon, kept everyone informed of the entertainment and ensured sun cream and drinks were people’s priority on this hot afternoon. Highlights in the arena this year included two spectacular shows by the Extreme Mountain Bikes, with the riders wowing the audience with their stunts. Horsham Bluebelles joined us again in the arena, giving a display of their outstanding dance. We welcomed Billingshurst Primary Academy for the first time in the arena with a wonderful display of country dancing and singing from the KS2 Choir. The Scouts and Guides entertained with chariot racing and an obstacle course, showing teamwork and competitiveness within all the sections.
The Billingshurst Show is organised and run by volunteers from Billingshurst Scouts and Guides. All the Scout and Guide sections were hard at work all afternoon on their stalls which included a cake stall, plant stall, book stall, tombolas, hook-a-duck, bouldering wall and pic ‘n’ mix.
We would like to express our thanks to Alan Wright for taking all the Show photos. If you would like to be part of the Show Committee or join Scouting and Guiding in the village, contact the show organisers via hello@billingshurstshow.org.uk
Keep up to date with show news on our social media pages.
We look forward to seeing you all next year on Sunday 28th June!
Natalie Evans, Chair, Billingshurst Show Team. Photos: Alan Wright Photography
1 Petworth Town Band led the Procession
2 1st prize was awarded to Dauxwood Preschool for their Lionesses Euros 2025 float
3 2nd prize went to Wakoos Centre4Children, with their colourful, sport themed float
4 3rd place went to Dempsey School of Irish Dancers
Aerial view of the showground
We’re all going on a summer holy-day!
For many of us, August comes as something of a welcome relief as we put to one side the day-to-day routine of life, and enjoy a holiday. It’s a time many of us look forward to, a time to be refreshed and to relax in order to return to normal life reinvigorated. And even if we are not actually going on holiday in August, life can just feel a little different and a bit more relaxed as some of the holiday atmosphere rubs off on us. Unless, of course, your work is involved in the holiday industry! Whenever we have our holidays, it’s a time to be savoured.
But things that we eagerly anticipate can sometimes fail to live up to our hopes – and that is as true of holidays as anything else in life. It might be the weather, or the food, or where we’re staying, or any one of a number of things.
So – how can we make the most of the time, should any misfortune befall our holidays?
The word holiday derives originally from holy
day; and if we remember that it may give us a clue as to the real origin of re-creation. A holy day is one in which our minds and our thoughts turn to God; in which we are conscious of our dependence upon God and in which we choose to seek him out. If we take that seriously, then we discover that our real refreshment and strength comes not from sun, sea and sleep, but rather from the One who made us and sustains us from day to day.
The writer of Psalm 1 uses a lovely picture to describe the refreshment of those who seek God:
“They are like trees planted by streams of water, bearing fruit in due season, with leaves that do not wither; everything they do shall prosper.”
Whatever you are doing this August, I hope you’ll be truly blessed!
David Beal
Village Tweet Quick Crossword Solution on page 9
People who look after others (6)
Salmon Florentine
A lovely supper for summer
METHOD
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 200°C fan / Gas mark 7 and line a small, rimmed baking sheet with greaseproof paper. Rub the salmon fillets with oil and place them skin side down on the greaseproof paper.
2. Season the fillets well with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon into the oven for 18-25 minutes. Cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the fillets used. While cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the onion gently until translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another minute, then add the spinach. Cover and let the spinach cook down, stirring occasionally.
4. Once spinach has wilted, drain off the excess liquid. Return to the stove and add white wine. Simmer for about a minute. Remove from the heat, add the cream, and mix everything well. Season with salt and chilli flakes. Return to a low heat and allow to heat through for a couple of minutes.
5. When the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and place it on preheated plates. Pour the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture over the salmon. Serve with a green salad.
2 large salmon fillets with the skin on 1 small onion, finely diced
1 tbsp olive oil
3 large garlic cloves crushed or finely chopped.
120g fresh spinach
150g mushrooms (any type, wild are great) sliced
60ml cup white wine
170ml double cream
Salt
1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
Food
Billingshurst Community Larder saves
20,000 kg!
Since its launch in February 2023, the Billingshurst Community Larder has saved 20,000 kg of food from being sent to landfill. That is the equivalent to the weight of 150 pandas! And this vast mountain of food then distributed by our team, to hundreds of visitors to the Larder.
Food waste generates all the environmental impacts of food production – intensive use and pollution of land and water resources, exacerbation of biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions – without any of the benefits of feeding people. The Billinghurst Larder is a small part of a national network of Larders and Fridges fighting food waste as an environmental and social challenge.
BilliGreen, a local Facebook environmental interest group, proposed the idea of a Larder which Billingshurst Community Partnership then formally took on as a project. A founding committee came together to launch the Larder, recruiting partners and volunteers and funding Food Hygiene and Handling training. Every week two teams of volunteers conduct Tuesday evening collections ready for distribution on Wednesday mornings, other than in Christmas and New Year weeks.
and take a limited number of free items. Regulars like to queue from 9.30 a.m. before the doors open at 10 a.m. Thanks to the generosity of our host partner, The Weald school, we distribute from School House AKA Larder HQ located on the Weald campus.
From 10 a.m. until 12, the distribution team is busy dealing with around 70-80 people who call in each week. There is no doubt that with ongoing cost-of-living increases, access to free food is a further benefit of this important project, along with the mission of reducing food waste.
We genuinely enjoy meeting our customers and would love to welcome anyone with an interest in finding out more at our Wednesday morning sessions. As already stated, we are not a food bank, and all are welcome to just come along.
Parking is available in the Leisure Centre Car Park, if you are not able to walk in.
As a team, we were also immensely proud to receive the accolade of The Dream Team at last year’s HDC Volunteer awards. A wonderful recognition of our efforts. We hope to continue for years to come or until retail food waste is no longer an issue.
Collection of the unwanted items come from our wonderful local retail partners including Lidl, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and The Wholefood Warehouse. The evening team must then check, sort, and weigh the collected stock at the Larder HQ. On distribution day, our volunteers help visitors ‘shop’ from a range of items usually including bread, pastries and cakes, fresh produce, chilled and frozen food, drinks, flowers, and random items like the 20 or so cases of Candy Canes left over from Christmas! It’s always fun to see what comes in – photos of available food appear on various local Facebook pages early on Wednesday morning.
The Larder is not a food bank – anyone can visit
Follow us on Facebook at Billingshurst Community Larder. Open every Wednesday from 10 am until 12 at School House, The Weald School, Billinghurst.
A Larder volunteer lays out some of the free food at the start of the day. Photo: Denise Campbell
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a great way to treat yourself, but it’s a lot more than that. This massage technique stimulates blood circulation and lymph flow which increases the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) into the brain and nervous system, thereby assisting to remove waste and reduce levels of stress and anxiety. Reducing stress levels can lead to better sleep patterns, which improves physical wellbeing.
Prices:
Back, neck and shoulders
£30 (25-30 mins), £50 (55 mins)
Full body
£60 (75 mins)
Full body including face and scalp £70 (90 mins)
Mobile: 07988 729877
E-mail: violetastherapy@hotmail.com
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
www.dandelionfarewells.com
Open Wed, Thur, Fri & Sun
12pm - 5pm | House from 2pm
TRIPADVISOR & GOOGLE
House & Needlework Tours in Aug, Sept & Oct
Run Wisborough
Wisborough Green, 8th June
Run Wisborough was held on the 8th June, the sun came out and so did the runners and the whole village!
The event had about 630 runners for the 10km and 5km races and about 150 for the children’s colour run.
The committee extends our heartfelt thanks to everyone in Wisborough Green for contributing to the success of the event.
Your consideration regarding road closures and your fantastic support for the runners along the route has been greatly appreciated. Many have praised our incredible marshals (thank you!) and the village support, below is just one example:
“Friendly community feel rac. This was my first time doing the race and I loved it! What a lovely location and set-up. Such a happy and supportive group of marshalls and local residents were all out in force all along the route which made for such a great atmosphere. For spectators it was a fantastic route, and the whole morning had a very family friendly feel to it. Cant wait to come back next year.”
Martin Lonsdale
Bugs, Birds and Beasts
Join us for some weird and wonderful wildlife stories and craft activities!
Monday 18 August 10.30-11.30am
Suitable for children aged 4+
Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HR (Free Parking) 01903 861376
www.parhaminsussex.co.uk
w3w/// this.songbird.contain
• Historic Elizabethan Home
• Four-Acre Walled Garden • The Greenhouse
• Joanna’s Boutique Tearoom
• Garden Shop and Gift Shop Parham House & Gardens
Booking essential—please speak with staff to reserve your place Parents and carers must remain with their child during this activity
Set within an ancient deer park below the South Downs, Parham is one of the country’s 昀nest Elizabethan Houses.
Run Barns Green
decade of fundraising
This year’s Run Barns Green which takes place on Sunday 28th September will be the 10th anniversary of St Catherine’s Hospice being the official charity of the event.
In 2016 St Catherine’s first linked up with Run Barns Green and in that time a huge amount of money has been raised over the years through donations and by individual runners running on behalf of this wonderful local charity. Run Barns Green is delighted to announce that next year, St Catherine’s Hospice will once again be the official charity of the event.
St Catherine’s provides individualised, specialist, end-of-life care and support to local people, their families, friends and carers living in Crawley, Horsham, and across West Sussex and East Surrey.
Commenting on the tenyear milestone, Terrianne Hunt from St Catherine’s Hospice said, “We have become firm friends with the Run Barns Green team and they have been fantastic supporters of us over the years. Of course, this period has not been easy with the cost of living increases and the ongoing struggle to raise at least £7 million annually in voluntary income to enable us to deliver our expert care to local people when it is needed most”.
has provided at the very toughest of times. It is so nice to see this community partnership celebrate ten years of great work which has been so important in helping to make up the shortfall of funding in this vital sector of care”.
Run Barns Green Race Director, Nigel Currie said, “It is amazing that it is ten years since we first teamed up with St Catherine’s. They are an outstanding charity and over the years I have had the chance to witness first hand what amazing work they do”.
Horsham MP John Milne will once again act as the official starter for the races this year and he was delighted to hear about the anniversary. “Huge congratulations to both St Catherine’s Hospice and Run Barns Green for creating so many wonderful and fun opportunities for people to raise money. Many of my constituents have benefited enormously from the wonderful care, help and support that St Catherine’s
Run Barns Green is made up of four races: The Half Marathon, a 10k race, a 5K race and a junior race for 4-11 year olds. The 2025 races will be the 43rd anniversary of the half marathon race which began back in 1982. This will be the 10th anniversary of the first running of the 10k race which began in 2016. Last year, just over 2400 runners registered for the four races. The two longer races follow routes on closed roads through the lanes of Barns Green, Itchingfield, Christ’s Hospital and close to Southwater through some of the most scenic countryside in West Sussex. These races also go through the magnificent grounds of Christ’s Hospital School. There is plenty of free car parking and there is chip timing for each runner in both races and they also receive a gold, silver or bronze medal depending on their finishing time. There are also pacemakers running who will help runners to achieve their target finish time. Registrations for the race are open on the Run Barns Green website: runbarnsgreen.org.uk.
Nigel Currie, Run Barns Green Race Director
August’s selection from Tash Donovan
Small Pleasures – Clare Chambers
Small Pleasures is a quiet gem of a book that unfolds with the grace of a classic British drama, while packing a modern literary punch.
Set in the meticulously rendered suburbs of 1957 south-east London the story follows Jean Swinney, a journalist approaching her fortieth birthday, and stuck writing lightweight ‘women’s pieces’. Her life is defined by routine, duty, and the quiet ache of unrealised dreams.
When she’s assigned to investigate a local woman’s claim of a virgin birth, she anticipates a hoax. Instead, she finds herself drawn into the lives of Gretchen Tilbury, her charming daughter Margaret, and Gretchen’s enigmatic husband, Howard. As Jean’s professional curiosity evolves into personal entanglement, Chambers masterfully explores themes of loneliness, desire and the societal constraints of postwar Britain.
The novel’s strength lies in its subtlety. Chambers crafts a narrative rich in period detail and emotional nuance, where the most profound moments are found in the quietest exchanges. Jean’s internal struggle between duty and desire is portrayed with a tenderness that resonates deeply, making her journey all the more poignant.
that define a life. It’s a reminder that the most extraordinary stories often emerge from the most ordinary lives.
The Book of Stolen Dreams – David Farr
This is a dazzling children’s debut that sweeps readers into a richly imagined world where courage and imagination are the keys to survival.
Set in the oppressive city of Brava, siblings Rachel and Robert Klein find themselves thrust into a perilous adventure after their librarian father entrusts them with a mysterious, forbidden book. Their mission: to find the missing final page and prevent the book from falling into the hands of the tyrannical ruler, Charles Malstain.
While the mystery of the virgin birth is central to the plot, it’s Jean’s personal awakening and the intricate dynamics between characters that draw us in.
Small Pleasures is a novel that lingers, reflecting on the small joys and quiet tragedies
Farr’s screenwriting and theatre credentials are very much present as he brings a cinematic flair to his storytelling, deftly balancing moments of suspense with real humour and warmth. There are many parallels to be drawn with certain chapters in history as well as more current events. Farr paints a compellingly grim picture of life under highly restrictive rules and regulations where almost every kind of fun is outlawed, and teaching takes place under the tightest of rules. In spite of this, Rachel and Robert’s spirits shine like beacons as they embark on their adventures.
The Book of Stolen Dreams is more than just a fantasy adventure; it’s a poignant exploration of the power of stories and the resilience of the human spirit. The suggested age range is 8-12 but quite frankly this 40-year-old adored it as much as her son.
Welcome to Design At 32
Established in Storrington in 2008 we have worked for many local clients combining their ideas for a new kitchen or bathroom with our knowledge of materials and spatial design. We are proud to offer a bespoke service to our clients keeping them involved throughout the process.
Our showroom in Storrington has changed many times over the last 18 years and at present shows a mixture of bespoke hand-painted and contemporary handleless silk-painted kitchen furniture.
We provide a free consultation process to our clients. Our initial visit to you enables us to discuss your kitchen or bathroom ideas in detail. We can view the kitchen or bathroom that you wish to remodel and come away with some measurements that allow us to create a design for you.
You will be invited to the showroom at Storrington where we can discuss your project in detail and go through the estimated cost with you. The conversation centres around your room and the design, materials and concepts. This gives you a
clear indication of our understanding of your wishes and what is possible.
As an independent business in Sussex, we pride ourselves on supplying products to you that meet the highest standards. With a large array of quality products to choose from we are sure you will find everything to your liking. We undertake structural changes if that is something you require and have an architect and structural engineer who can advise you directly.
We have a friendly team of fitters who complete their work in a tidy and clean manner. Your project is overseen during each stage of the process to ensure as smooth a journey as possible for all parties concerned. On completion of the project we will ‘walk through’ with you to make sure everything is as expected.
If you are considering a kitchen, utility, bootroom, bedroom or bathroom project in 2025, please contact us on 01903 741004 or pop into the showroom at Storrington for an initial stress free discussion and a look at the products on offer.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Weald School Greenpower Racing Team
Two Podiums and Oh So Close!
Hopes were high for the Weald Greenpower Racing Team as we heading to the Lotus test track at Hethel in Norfolk on 25th May. We had a great result in 2024 and we hoped to repeat this after recent improving form.
We took our #1 and #2 cars, Bluebird and Purple Predator and a small team including three drivers for each car plus three pit crew so it was all hands to the pump for pitstops. Bluebird ran well in practice but Purple Predator suffered some electrical gremlins which limited our time. The first race began and Bluebird leapt to the front and stayed there, finishing the race a lap clear of the rest of the field, Purple Predator had a frantic rewire and started the race 30 minutes late; this meant we could go full power for 60 minutes and not worry about dropoff. A truly heroic drive followed which saw Purple Predator climb to an impressive 19th place (having started 33rd and six laps down!)
the team again working like clockwork (even though it was a largely different team to the one we took to Lotus) and the cars finished a solid 1st and 2nd, unfortunately even though both cars completed 27 laps, the morning winners had completed 29 (no red flag in the morning) so the trophies were theirs.
Racing isn’t all about winning and we couldn’t have asked for more from the team, we’ll certainly go back to Bedford next year, we’ve got unfinished business!
We’ve recently launched a JustGiving page to support the building of our new workshop. Thank you to all those who have already donated to us, it feels like we’re making real progress on our target. Donations are gratefully received at justgiving.com/page/ teamwealdworkshop.
The afternoon was much more plain sailing with both cars behaving and the team working like clockwork to rack up a total of 20 laps for Bluebird and 19 for Purple Predator which netted us 1st and 2nd places overall. (Bluebird hit a top speed of 30mph with Purple Predator at 29mph).
Our next race was Bedford Autodrome on 1st June. This time we took Purple Predator and car #3 X. This time both cars suffered gremlins in race 1, this time a chain issue for Purple Predator and electrics for X. The cars both finished well (Purple Predator in 5th and X in 12th) with X picking up the fastest lap of the race too.
The afternoon race was a different story, both cars went off at the start like rockets and were running well until a red flag stopped the race for 15 minutes. Once the race restarted, both cars ran well to the finish with
ROGER SMITH Furniture Maker
Woodworking projects, both large and small undertaken For a no obligation chat or quote call 07736 769021 or e-mail: barflies@hotmail.co.uk
Team Weald is a Greenpower Racing Team that runs as an afterschool club for the Weald Secondary School. There are two formulas that we race in: F24 for ages 1116 and F24+ for ages 16-25. The aim of both is to see how far you can get your car to go on a single set of batteries (2 x 12V lead acid). F24 has pit stops and lasts for 1.5 hours, F24+ is a single driver for 1 hour.
If you would be interested in learning more about the team or any aspect or Greenpower then please contact cevans@theweald.org.uk.
See Team Weald at www.teamweald.org.uk or on Instagram @teamweald.
Chris Evans, Greenpower Car Coordinator
Photo: Team Weald with Bluebird and Purple Predator
UPVC windows & doors | Aluminium windows & bi-fold doors | Composite doors | Glass splashbacks Single glazing misted/broken double glazed units Handles & hinges | Cat flaps | All types of remedial work T: 01403 780 823 M: 07825 285916
E: gbglazing@hotmail.com
Remembering Victory in Japan – 80 years on
From 7pm, Friday, 15th August, the Billingshurst Branch of the Royal British Legion in conjunction with Billingshurst Parish Council, have organised a celebration to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day to be held at the Station Road Community Gardens.
which in effect ended the Second World War. The human cost of the Pacific War was enormous with over 90,000 British casualties in the war against Japan, of which almost 30,000 died to help secure our freedom.
The entertainment will be by the ever popular Legionnaires Dance Band. This will be followed by a short Service of Remembrance, lead by the Reverend David Beal of St Mary’s Church. Refreshments will be available in the park, but please feel free to bring your own picnic and blanket and enjoy what should be a very pleasant evening.
In May 1945 despite the nation celebrating Victory in Europe upon Germany’s surrender, Japan fought on, with the allied troops in the east still engaged in fierce warfare across Asia and the Pacific. Victory over Japan Day on the 15th August commemorates the surrender of the Japanese forces,
Support us in remembering those who served in the Far East and join Billingshurst’s in celebrating Victory over Japan Day at Station Road Community Gardens.
For further information about the VJ Celebrations, or the work of the Billingshurst Branch of the Royal British Legion, please contact Rob Nicholl, Branch Chairman, e-mail: billingshurst.chairman@ rbl.community.
Graeme McAlpine, Press Officer – Billingshurst Royal British Legion
The Legionnaires Dance Band will be providing entertainment at the Anniversary of VJ Day at Station Road Gardens on 15th August. They are seen here celebrating Armed Forces Day on 28th June at the Carfax Bandstand, Horsham.
Photo: Graeme McAlpine
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The way we shop needs to change, and refill is one of the simplest steps we can all take. Sussex Green Living has launched its latest refill campaign to help local residents reduce packaging waste, save money, and cut plastic pollution through simple everyday swaps.
Here in the UK, we use an estimated 14 billion plastic bottles, 9 billion cans and nearly 5 billion coffee cups every year, most used once and then thrown away. Globally, refill and reuse systems have the potential to cut plastic pollution by as much as 80%.
(Source: Refill.org.uk / Global Plastics Treaty report 2023.)
Refill isn’t only about topping up bottles. Many everyday products are now available in concentrated or dry formats. From shampoo bars and laundry sheets to kitchen cleaning bars and concentrated oat milk powder, these simple changes help reduce packaging, cut transport emissions, save space and often cost less.
At Sussex Green Hub, which takes place in Horsham on the last Saturday of every month, you can refill a wide range of household and personal care products.
While refill options are growing, they remain limited in many parts of Sussex. For some people, the nearest
refill service may still involve a significant journey. Sussex Green Living has ambitions to grow its refill offer further, building local interest in dry goods and store cupboard refills alongside existing services, helping to make refill an even more practical part of everyday shopping. Community input is a vital part of this process, with local residents invited to share feedback and help shape future refill options through surveys and conversations.
Sussex Green Living’s refill campaign is part of the wider national movement led by organisations such as Refill, part of City to Sea, which is working to make refill the new normal. While national efforts call for stronger action to expand reuse and refill systems across the UK, local action remains essential to demonstrate real community demand.
There are plenty of ways to get involved. Visit Sussex Green Hub, explore local refill locations, take part in our local survey, find helpful resources, and discover how you can take action, all through our refill campaign hub at https://www.sussexgreenliving.org.uk/refill Together, we can make refills part of everyday shopping, creating a cleaner, fairer and more sustainable future.
Marianne Lindfield, Sussex Green Living
Holiday time!
John Nash is a retired, well sort of retired, fruit farm manager in Kirdford who enjoys scribbling about life on the farm from the now to days gone by.
Hi my friends, how’s your summer going? We are just coming up to the peak time for summer holidays and I hope that you are able to enjoy one of these annual ‘away from home’ times yourself. Over the years, as I have reached a more sedate period of my life, I have moved from a need for adventure to one of wanting peace and tranquility. This has meant we now seek out hotels that give us peace, quiet friendliness, and… good food!
Such a place is the one I now shall tell you about. I would ask though that you keep the name to yourself as the last thing I would want to find in the future is that I couldn’t make a booking because the place was full of you lot!
The hotel overlooks the beautiful bay of Camp de Mar in Majorca. It’s an adults-only hotel which I would suggest only means that you won’t get splashed if you venture into the pool! As regards any other reason, I can assure you that us oldies are more than capable of reproducing infantile events just as well as any pre-puberty child can do. We are in fact experts at spilling drinks, falling over and grazing knees, forgetting where our rooms are and making fools of ourselves at bed time, say no more! No… besides the view from every vantage part of the hotel, it’s the truly wonderful staff that care for us that brings us back year on year. We get to know every name, and they in return to know ours. Just wonderful.
be welcomed by Christian names and hugs. We are home.
The next day the routine commences after a long breakfast consuming double the calories normally consumed, placing our towels on the area that for this day is designated as Nash Country, and venturing forth for a constitutional. The walk passes along a promenade, a pleasant sea-view stroll, a flight of steps designed to produce a heart attack, and a slow retreat back to the hotel. There follows the first beer o’clock of the day!
Lunch is spent overlooking the sea in the outdoor diner. A small snack, another beer, a few pleasantries and assorted insults exchanged with the staff who we know so well, and then back to the sunbed. Most days I should say at midday we often partake of ‘boules on the beach’. The cheating and language that occurs makes me decide to pass over this event but it is great fun, even if it’s because it often involves shifting several sunbathers from their basting positions as they are encroaching our pitch!
But I digress. This is about my holiday. What I like to do. What pleases me. So I have, after giving it much thought, decided that perhaps the best way of describing the location is to take you through a typical day. Day one, of course, is taken up with the usual airport confusion of waiting, inching forward, more waiting, and then at last spending two and a half hours with knees jammed against the seat in front while waiting for the first tipple of the holiday. Our traditional drink for this is a tot of brandy laced with ginger ale –even at seven o’clock in the morning. I told you age is no deterrent to stupidity. Finally, arrival at the hotel is to
Four o’clock arrives. Quiz time. Funnily enough this also coincides with gin and tonic time. Those partaking gather by the bar and for half an hour or so expose just how little they know. Shaming but each day we return. Some say it’s just for the G&T but that would be cruel. Then it’s shower, change, and prepare for the evening. Looking absolutely gorgeous with our fresh sunburn glowing under our clothing we go down to the restaurant. A quick dance with the dining room Maitre d’ follows and then we partake of another import of calories.
Finally, outside for the evening’s chatter, staged entertainment, and the warmth that being surrounded by familiar friends brings.
Then, as the younger folk head off to the clubs and bars of the towns I collect my nightcap from the bar, do my best to not spill it as the lift ascends to the highest floors, and then while sipping it as I recline on the bed, I reflect on the prospect that tomorrow I’ve got to go through this hell all over again!
Tough life getting old. Cheers!
John Nash
Billingshurst Parish Council
Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre Roman Way, Billingshurst, RH14 9QW
Billingshurst Remembers – VE Day
80th Anniversary Commemorations
A wonderful time was had by all at the VE Day 80th Anniversary Luncheon at the Billingshurst Centre where once again we were treated to the dulcet tones of our local crooner Rob Nicholl. Thank you to all of those who attended and helped mark this very important anniversary. The culmination of the parish’s VE Day commemorations was the lighting of the beacon on Adversane Green by Council Chairman Cllr Paul Berry. The assembled gathering was serenaded beforehand by a Scottish Piper and the Royal British Legion were in attendance with their fundraising stand. A fitting event to mark such an important milestone.
We need your help
After a very dry spring, we would really appreciate help from our residents in keeping an eye on and watering our highway trees planted last year and those planted back in 2020. A map showing locations of the majority of the trees can be found on the NEWSFEED section of the Parish Council website. Any help you can give by watering those trees closest to where you live would be very much appreciated
Billingshurst Activity Day –
Saturday 9th August
Billingshurst Parish Council, supported by the Neighbourhood Wardens and Billingshurst Lions are once again hosting a free Family Activity Day at Jubilee Fields on Saturday 9th August, between 12pm-4pm. The aim is to give visitors of all ages a taste of some activities to tempt them out of their armchairs and into doing something active and fun! Activities on offer include skateboarding, a climbing wall, bushcraft, dancing, fishing and much, much more! Pop it in your diary and come along and try something new, we look forward to seeing you on the day!
Billingshurst Community Transport
Do you have some spare time? Are you able to drive? Do you live in the parishes of Billingshurst, Shipley, Loxwood, Ifold or Plaistow? If so, the
Billingshurst Community Transport Scheme need volunteer drivers and would like to hear from you. To find out more about the scheme and see whether you can help, please contact the scheme manager Graeme Acraman on 01403 787696
80th Anniversary of VJ Day –15th August
In commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day, the Parish Council and the Billingshurst branch of the Royal British Legion have arranged for the RBL Horsham Band to play on Friday 15th August between 7pm and 8.30pm in Station Road Community Gardens. Refreshments will be available but feel free to bring your own picnic and blanket and enjoy what should be a very pleasant evening.
Upcoming Council meetings
All meetings are held at the Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre (normally commencing at 7pm but are occasionally subject to short notice change). Agendas and supporting documents, where applicable, are always posted on the Parish Council’s website www.billingshurst.gov.uk.
Nearly 700 people walk through the night for St Catherine’s Hospice
Nearly 700 people took to the streets of Horsham on Saturday 7th June to raise money for their local hospice as part of St Catherine’s Hospice Midnight Walk.
The nighttime walkers took on a distance of 2, 7, 13 or 20 miles, starting and finishing at The Bridge Leisure Centre in Broadbridge Heath, with routes going through Horsham town centre. The routes were marshalled by enthusiastic volunteers whose cheers of encouragement kept spirits high and motivated walkers to keep going throughout the night.
The charity’s flagship fundraiser, which has already raised more than £110,000, saw people don glitter facepaint, light-up boppers and orange tutus before stepping out on their own or as part of a team.
Many people walked in memory of someone close to them and a poignant memory wall at the start was filled with precious photos and heartfelt tributes to loved ones. A reflective area under the bandstand in Horsham Park provided another moment of remembrance, where walkers wrote a special message and lit a lantern.
At the end of their walk, challengers were cheered across the finish line and given a medal before enjoying a celebratory breakfast with a glass of prosecco.
Amy Smith took on the 13-mile route. When asked what motivated her to take part, she said, “I’m taking part in the Midnight Walk for my dad, who lost his battle with cancer three months ago. It
was by far the hardest thing I have ever had to go through. Even though he was only in the hospice for 24 hours, the care we received was amazing, not just for him but for all of us as a family. The staff let us stay the night with him and it was the little things that made it that bit easier. I wanted to do the walk to honour my dad’s memory, as well as raise money for St Catherine’s.”
Emma Butler, Fundraiser at St Catherine’s who led this year’s Midnight Walk said, “What a fantastic, humbling and truly inspiring night. It was incredible to see so many local people come together with such energy and enthusiasm as they stepped out under the stars in support of our hospice. The amount our wonderful walkers have raised is truly remarkable and will enable us to continue delivering personalised care to local families who need us. We’re also incredibly grateful to all of the volunteers who helped the Midnight Walk to run smoothly. More than 100 of them supported the event, and we really couldn’t have done it without them. We hope everyone enjoyed the night as much as we did. Bring on next year!”
To find out how you can take part in future events for St Catherine's, please visit: www.stch.org.uk/events or to make a donation please visit: www.stch.org.uk/donate. Laura Bland, Communications and PR Manager
Photo: 2025 Midnight Walkers
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The Renegades are on fire!
Always fireproofed against boredom, the Renegades Youth Club sparked the children’s imaginations with a special visit to Crawley Fire Station.
Organised by Renegade dad Dan, a firefighter at the station, the kids turned up the summer heat as they got to grips with all aspects of life on the watch.
“The minute I sent out the invitation to visit the fire station, the minibus was instantly filled – with even more coming via parents’ cars. The kids were so excited that they were singing at the top of their voices all the way there… which is quite an experience for the minibus driver (me!),” laughed Group Leader Gareth Miller
“Crawley is an extremely large, immaculate and well-equipped station with three fire engines, and the team brought over another one for us to look at. The volume of different types of equipment they have is astounding, and the kids got to see and even handle some of the equipment (with hands-on guidance from the firefighters of course), like car cutters and breaching tools.
“They got to sit in the fire engines and see where the firemen sleep, eat and monitor ongoing jobs. They
even got to hold the hoses (again with the support of the firefighters) and were shown how to suppress fires and what equipment is used for each eventuality.
“The firefighters were exceptional at engaging and talking to the kids, explaining everything with a smile, and they kept even the most wayward minds absorbed. One thing I found fascinating was that the teams at each fire station are trained slightly differently according to their most common jobs. A team that deals with rural fires in villages is completely different from a London high-rise department, and different again for a service where there are factories or supporting Gatwick Airport.
“Huge thanks to Dan, the Crawley team, the whole fire service for everything they do and to Renegade dad Russ too for helping. It goes without saying that we’ll be going back!”, says Gareth.
The Renegades is a charity and open to all children aged 7 to 18. If you would like a taster session, visit www.renegadesyc.org or ring Gareth on 07801 862550.
Vanda Rumney
Photo: a bit more powerful than a garden hose!
“Pupils feel happy in their nurturing and vibrant school. Each morning, confident and resilient pupils arrive eager to start their learning. Forging positive relationships is at the heart of daily life.” Ofsted 2024
At Shipley our rich and exciting curriculum equips children with the skills and knowledge to be lifelong learners. There are high academic expectations but learning is also fun and experiential. Children are nurtured and supported by experienced staff. We make the most of our beautiful and peaceful location by providing meaningful opportunities for learning outside the classroom.
“Leaders create a nurturing culture where people are cherished and supported.” SIAMS 2025
Come and see for yourself what makes Shipley such a special place to learn and grow – we look forward to welcoming you. Call the office team on (01403) 741298 or email office@shipley.w-sussex.sch.uk to book a visit.
Stronger Together – One year with Sussex Learning Trust
The 1st of June this year marked one year since Billingshurst Primary joined Sussex Learning Trust (SLT) and became Billingshurst Primary Academy. To celebrate this anniversary, we have invited SLT to write this month’s article, introducing the Trust and sharing some of the work they have done with us at the school.
Sussex Learning Trust consists of six academies: four primary schools, one secondary school, and one all-through school. Our mission centres on collaboration for the benefit of our children and communities, guiding how we engage with our academies and staff. Since Billingshurst Primary Academy joined us, we have forged strong relationships with the leadership team and established a mutually beneficial partnership based on learning, development, and support. Leaders and staff throughout the school have been able to develop links with colleagues from across the Trust to share best practice, moderate assessments and develop new initiatives to ensure our children are receiving the very best from their education. It has been a fantastic year for the school, and we are eager to see where the next few years take us together.
A vibrant and nurturing co-educational setting from Nursery to GCSE.
To book a tour of the school, please visit our website or contact us on 01483 277313. Taster days and childcare vouchers available. Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Surrey, GU6 7NS www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk
One of the key advantages for schools joining a trust like SLT is access to School Condition Allocation (SCA) funding. SCA is a form of capital funding provided by the Department for Education (DfE) to assist in maintaining and enhancing school buildings and grounds. It is allocated annually to bodies like multi-academy trusts. By utilising this funding, Billingshurst Primary Academy has completed several exciting building projects, including internal improvements to the school and, soon, the installation of a canopy in the Early Years outdoor area. Additionally, a significant roofing project has been completed, ensuring the school remains a welcoming, safe, and happy environment for children to learn and grow in.
To learn more about Sussex Learning Trust, scan the QR code or please visit our website: https://www.sussexlearningtrust.co.uk. Alternatively, find us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram @SussexLearningTrust. Website: www.billingshurstprimary.org.uk Facebook: @billingshurstprimary Instagram: @BillingshurstPrimaryAcademy
Loxwood Village Fete & Fun Dog Show 2025
Loxwood Village Fete and Fun Dog Show was held in the grounds of North Hall, Loxwood, on 14th June, when the sun smiled kindly on us for the whole day.
It has been agreed by all who took part in the Fete that it was a tremendous day that brought our village community together to enjoy the spectacle and all of our many attractions. As well as being a fun day out for all the family, financially it was a great success, for the fourth year running the Fete has raised over £7,000, which will be donated to local deserving causes.
The Fete Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who have been involved to make this day a success. This will include our Sponsors, Advertisers, helpers on the day and also for setting up and taking down the Fete, Stallholders as well as people who donated prizes to the Grand Draw and the Tombola. We would also like to thank the Billingshurst Lions for their organisation of the car park as well as the many ladies in the village who made cakes for the Café.
A special thank you must go to our Committee Members who work tirelessly to make this a special day for our village. To enable the Fete to continue in the future we are desperately in need of some younger Committee Members to ensure the future of this valuable community event. If you feel you could help us in the future, please contact Graham Moore at
Village Tweet Spot the Difference
A pair of mediaeval knights who will be at the Loxwood Joust (2nd/3rd, 9th/10th & 16th/17th August). Can you spot the 11 differences? Solution on page 34
Heroes Helping Animals in Ukraine’s War Zone
Ukraine may be many miles away from Sussex, but due to the passion and energy of Sussex resident, Rebecca Renmant-Oliver, the animals and people are now close to many of our hearts.
One terrible impact of the war in Ukraine is that people are leaving their pets behind when fleeing danger and destruction. Despite the dangers, some brave Ukrainians have stepped in to rescue these animals, working in very basic and difficult conditions. Numerous cats, dogs, birds and wildlife have been taken in. Rescuers constantly face the difficulty of getting food, essential medical supplies, bedding and equipment for their work. Normal supply chains are broken and travel can be very perilous with the real risk of being attacked. Learning of this desperate situation, Rebecca Renmant-Oliver brought it to the attention of her local community and asked for help at the start of the war. Since then, car-loads of items have arrived daily at her Rusper home, from far and wide.
drivers who do the round trip. At the start, aid went out by vans operated by small charities but sometimes at risk of attack from hovering Russian drones. Now, most aid is taken by lorry to Poland where smaller vehicles then collect to take into Ukraine. Several brave individuals are taking in these supplies, including Tom Bates, founder of K9 Rescue Ukraine
We must also recognise the heroic bravery of the rescue volunteers in Ukraine, who care for so many animals in the most difficult of circumstances. Aid is also sent to them including rice pudding and tins of tuna!
How can you help?
Donations of animal food, medicines, dog/cat beds, dog coats, leads, collars, metal bowls are all needed. Find out more at Facebook
Hundreds of items are collated, documented and palletted. This mammoth task is undertaken by Rebecca helped by an occasional volunteer. Alongside this, funds are raised to cover fuel costs and to pay the HGV
Spot the Difference - Solution
Puzzle on page 33
@Rebecca Renmant-Oliver. Tell your friends, dog walking groups, agility clubs, etc about this work. Attend one of the fundraising events such as our upcoming dog show on Saturday 4th October at Brinsbury College. Financial support from fundraising is vital to cover transport costs.
Julia Jepps
Photos: one of the brave volunteers, and the lorry being loaded with aid
Pets / Out and about / Vets
PThe Spaniel Diaries
hew! How are you all coping in this heat? It’s been so very hot we have all been flaking out by mid-afternoon! On the plus side we have been going for a lovely swim every evening either at the little river or on the beach as the sun is going down, Mum has managed to get some beautiful sunset photos too!
We have managed to still get some training in. Mum has been taking us to the woods where it’s lovely and cool under the trees and we have been doing lots of sittingdoing-nothing training which is the hardest thing for us spaniels to do –especially Goose as all he wants to do is run around like a mad thing! Mum has had to take shares out in the company that makes Jungle formula as the downside to the woods is the huge mosquitos that like to make a meal out of Mum. She’s also running out of afterbite cream!
food. Goose is such a funny little thing as he will only eat them frozen as he seems to have texture issues with them when they are defrosted – I don’t, so all the more for me if he doesn’t eat his!
Mum was not impressed with Goose as he’s been out in the veg garden plucking the strawberries off the plants – he doesn’t even eat them, just rolls them around in his mouth and spits them out! At least I have the decency to actually eat them. He’s been stopped from his antics now as Mum has put up a fruit cage; I think the birds are also fuming with Goose as they can no longer sneak down and pinch the strawberries either!
I am actually hoping this weather continues as Mum is giving us some really delicious frozen sprats on our
Wisborough Green
Traditional Village Fete
Fun Dog Show
Horticultural Show - Village Hall
Bank Holiday Monday 25th August 2025 1pm - Village Green
Traditional Sideshows
Children’s Races
From 2pm
Food Stalls
Milking Challenge
Vintage Vehicles
Fete Market
Ferret Racing
Animal Petting
Swingboats
Face Painting
Worthing Silver Band
➢ Download the programme using the QR code before you arrive (poor internet in WG) – also available on the WG Village website
➢ Please bring CASH
FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY
We have another brood of ducklings on the pond at the farm, I was having a mooch around and I found them in the reeds on the edge. Mum knew something was there as I stood with my nose stuck in the reeds and when she popped over to have a look there were seven little ducklings peeping back at her – they are so cute, mum has got them some duck food that floats on the water to give Mother Nature a helping hand and they are doing really well and growing by the day, and luckily so far they have evaded the foxes – it’s lovely to watch them all come swimming over behind their mum who get’s quite excited when we turn up as she knows there’s food on the way.
We recently had an amazing day out a country fair. Luckily it wasn’t such a hot day and we had plenty of shady places to hang out in and watch all the goings on – Mum loved the Falconry display; those birds of prey really are awesome and so very beautiful. We tried our hand at a scurry. I took my time but Goose was like a rocket and won a voucher for some dog food – hopefully he’ll let me have some!
Until next time, Billy.
Jeannette Douglas
Garden View Astrantia –
the quiet star
If you’ve ever wandered through a traditional English cottage garden in midsummer, chances are you’ve caught sight of astrantias – those charming, understated flowers that quietly hold their own among the showier blooms. Also known as masterworts or the rather quaint ‘Hattie’s pincushion’, these perennials are the perfect blend of beauty and practicality. With their starry, pincushionstyle blooms in shades from soft white to dusky pink and deep ruby, they’re a treat for the eye –and for the bees and butterflies, too!
Astrantias bloom their hearts out from June right through to August, giving us gardeners a generous season of colour, not to mention plenty of nectar for our insect friends. They’re absolutely brilliant for shady spots, especially those damp, awkward corners where other plants might sulk. Moisture-retentive soil is their sweet spot, but don’t worry if your patch is on the drier side –they’ll still do well with regular watering and a good mulch.
pretty self-sufficient, and wonderfully resistant to slugs and snails, which is a real bonus in my own garden!
If you want to encourage a second flush of flowers (and who wouldn’t?), cut them back after their first round of blooming. Give them a proper haircut again in autumn or early spring to keep them looking tidy.
Astrantias can be divided in spring. Lift a clump, gently prise it apart with your hands or a fork and replant the sections right away. If you’ve got the patience, they can also be grown from seed – either collected from your own plants or from a packet under cover in spring.
Astrantias are mostly trouble-free, though occasionally powdery mildew can be an issue. Keep them healthy with plenty of water and mulch and bin any mildewy leaves in autumn.
Speaking of soil, astrantias are fans of the rich stuff: well-rotted manure, home-made compost, or leaf mould worked into the ground before planting. Pop the plant into a prepared hole, firm it in, and water generously. Keep up the watering through the first summer, especially if your soil’s particularly free-draining. Once settled, they’re
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For varieties, try ‘Roma’ for soft pink blooms, ‘Venice’ for a dramatic ruby red, or ‘Hadspen Blood’ if you’re after something truly striking. For a lighter look, ‘Buckland’ and ‘Alba’ are gentle on the eye and lovely in a pastel scheme.
In all, astrantias are reliable, romantic, and ridiculously easy to grow – a real cottage garden treasure.
Happy gardening!
Rachael Leverton
West Chiltington Floral Club
(Affiliated to NAFAS)
Tuesday 19th August, 7 for 7.30pm start
We welcome Michelle King
with her demonstration ‘Once Upon a Time’ Visitors are most welcome, £7 on the door. Sales table, Refreshments and Raffle. West Chiltington Village Hall, Mill Road, RH20 2PZ. For more information, please contact Brenda (01798) 813712 or Carol (01798) 813608 Email: wchiltfloralclub@gmail.com
Billingshurst Open Gardens
Visitors flock to admire gardens on a glorious summer’s day
What a wonderful day we had on Sunday 22nd June! Sunshine and a gentle breeze provided the perfect weather for Billingshurst’s first Open Gardens.
Three months in planning, Billingshurst Community Partnership persuaded six keen gardeners to open their well-tended plots to the public, and twelve volunteer stewards did sterling duty, checking tickets and advising visitors of possible trip hazards and other items of special interest in each garden.
can do for nature.”
“Love the fact that Billingshurst has its own Open Gardens at last.”
Following the ad in June’s Village Tweet promoting the event, visitors began to arrive and gradually grew in numbers and by the end of the afternoon we had welcomed around 100 people to six private gardens, the Manor Field allotments, Station Road Community Gardens and to the work being done by Billigreen to renovate and restore the Roman Way Surgery gardens. Little Bean Café and the Unitarian Chapel provided tea and cake. Visitors came from Horsham and surrounding villages as well as from Billingshurst and we received so many positive comments:
“What an amazing garden – I had no idea this was behind that house!”
“So many wildlife bits – just shows what you
“Can I just sit and take it all in?”
After this year’s success, Billingshurst Community Partnership is considering repeating the event next year, but we would love other residents to open their gardens. If you would like to be involved in any way, please contact the Partnership through our co-Chair, Gillian Knight, e-mail: gillianknight153@gmail.com.
Finally, a big thank you to Billingshurst Parish Council, the Men’s Shed, Billingshurst Allotments Society, Little Bean Café, the Unitarian Chapel and Billigreen for their help and support and of course to the ‘Open Gardeners’ and volunteer stewards for making Billingshurst’s first Open Gardens such a big success.
See you next year!
Carol Terry
Left: 24 Silver Lane (Marie Montoya). Right: Bell Cottage (Carol Terry)
07762 767084, editor@villagetweet.co.uk
What’s On near you
What’s On – August
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 £3 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 MonIggy’s at The Nest. Trinity United Reformed Church, Billingshurst. 10am-12pm. Midwife-led family drop-in group, supported by qualified volunteers. Skilled breastfeeding support. We welcome babies to crawler/cruisers. Come and meet local new mums for tea, cake and a chat. Free but donations are very welcome. Weekly updates on Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/yrArMPFMBGx1NksW
Every MonChair Yoga. Billingshurst Community Centre. 10-11am. For those who want to feel the benefits of yoga, but from a chair! All welcome. £10. Sue, tel: 07716 350584 or e-mail sue@yogawithsue.co.uk
Every Mon Billingshurst Men’s Shed. Station Road Gardens. 10am. Part of the Men’s Shed movement, we are a Tues & Weds group of men AND women who meet to talk, drink tea and coffee, make and repair things. Contact & 1st Sat Keith Witt, Chairman, tel: (01403) 785821 or e-mail: billimensshed@outlook.com
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 Zumba with Michelle Vorster. Monday at Kelsey Hall, Ifold, RH14 0UD, 6pm. Wednesday at North Hall & Weds Loxwood, RH14 0SF, 6pm. Zumba takes the ‘work’ out of workout, by mixing low-intensity and high-intensity moves for a calorie-burning dance fitness party for all to enjoy. Pre-book only: bookwhen.com/ michellevorster. Facebook: Zumba with Michelle Vorster. E-mail: Michelle77.zumba@gmail.com
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 TuesChair Yoga. Kelsey Hall, Ifold. 2.30-3.30pm. For those who want to feel the benefits of yoga, but from a chair! All welcome. £10. Sue, tel: 07716 350584 or e-mail sue@yogawithsue.co.uk
Every Tues Billingshurst Short Mat Bowls. Billingshurst Community & Conference Centre. 2-4pm
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. We meet in Billingshurst. 7-9.30pm. Welcoming & helpful, just bring your project. No fees. Sarah, tel: 07817 699865 for meeting venue details
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 Weds Blue Idol Open Day. Blue Idol Quaker Meeting House, Oldhouse Lane, RH13 8QP. 10am-1pm. Discover Mar-Oct local history and spend time in this peaceful place. www.blueidol.org. Tel: (01403) 740039
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, phone Alison on (01403) 588181
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 Weds Billingshurst Rock Choir. Billingshurst Community Centre. 7.30-9pm, term times. No experience required. A friendly choir singing upbeat pop, rock & 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
What’s On near you
Every evenBilliUke: Billingshurst’s Own Ukulele Jam! The Kings Arms, 7 for 7.30pm start. If you already have week, Weds a 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. Meetings: billiuke.com/ev.php
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 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 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 only: bookwhen.com/clubbercisehayleym. Latest updates: facebook.com/clubbercisewithhayley
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 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 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
Every Sat Dempsey School of Irish Dancing for children aged 5+. Billingshurst Community Centre. 9 & 10am. Nicola, e-mail: dempseyirishdance@gmail.com
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 Aug Live Music: An Evening with Emma Hatton and Friends. Cranleigh Arts Centre. 7.30pm. With songs from the musicals and some personal pop/soul favourites, join us for this chance to hear one of the West End's leading ladies in an intimate setting. Tickets: Stalls £30, Balconies £22.50: (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit cranleigharts.org
2 Aug Craft and Chat Group. Unitarian Chapel, Billingshurst. Every 1st Saturday, 12.15-3.45pm. Bring your own project. Refreshments on offer. Tel: (01403)785116
2 Aug Community Gardening Day. Station Road Gardens. Drop-in any time between 9.30am-1pm. Weeding, dead-heading & general tidying. Refreshments for all helpers. Mens Shed will also be open
2, 3, 9, 10 & The Loxwood Joust. Loxwood Meadow, RH14 0AL. Advance Tickets on sale via: www.loxwoodjoust.co.uk 16, 17 Aug See page 33
5 Aug 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
5 Aug Parish Council Planning & Environmental Committee meeting. Billingshurst Centre. 7pm
5 Aug Billingshurst Community Bridge Club. Meets 1st Tuesday of each month, venue varies and depends on numbers, contact Jan Buttinger, e-mail: janbuttinger@gmail.com
7 Aug 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
7 Aug 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
9 Aug Billingshurst Family Activity Day. Jubilee Fields. 12-4pm. Free. See page 25
9 Aug Blue Idol Open Day. Blue Idol Quaker Meeting House, Oldhouse Lane, RH13 8QP. 2nd Sat, April-October, 10am-1pm. Discover local history & spend time in this peaceful place. www.blueidol.org. Tel: (01403) 740039
9 Aug Billingshurst Dementia Café. United Reformed Church Hall, Second and fourth Saturday of every month (December 2nd Sat only), from 10am-12pm. Please join us for tea, coffee & cake. All welcome
11 Aug Billingshurst & District Probus Club is a social group of retired and semi-retired business people –ladies and gentlemen welcome. Monthly meetings in Loxwood’s North Hall every second Monday 10.30 for 11.00am with a talk by an invited speaker. Monthly walks with pub lunch, and a range of other activities and events. Email mike.gibbs009@gmail.com for details
14 Aug 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
15 Aug VJ Day 80th Anniversary. Station Road Community Gardens. 7-8.30pm. Music by Legionnaires Dance Band. Refreshments available or bring a picnic. See page 18
16 Aug Billingshurst Horticultural Society Flower Show. Billingshurst Centre. 2.30-5pm. Horticulture, floral art, cookery, craft, photography, junior sections & classes for non-members. Mrs S Wells, tel: (01403) 784159
17 Aug Billingshurst Artisan Market. Six Bells car park. 9.30am-1.30pm. Local foods and crafts
18 Aug Laughter Yoga Club. Unitarian Hall (side door), Billingshurst, RH14 9QS. (Park Lakers Mead.) 1-2pm. £6. Boosts seratonine and nervous systems & improves wellbeing! Non-profit-making club. All welcome. Contact Linda, tel: 07806.327917, email: lstevenson201854@gmail.com
18 Aug Bugs, Birds & Beasts. Billingshurst Library. 10.30-11.30am. Children 4+. Pe-book via staff. See page 12
18 Aug 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
22 Aug Film: ‘Flow’ (U). Cranleigh Arts Centre. 8pm. Winner of the best animated feature award at this year’s Oscars. Tickets £8 (U16s £6): (01483) 278000 (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) or visit cranleigharts.org
23 Aug Billingshurst Dementia Café. United Reformed Church Hall, Second and fourth Saturday of every month (December 2nd Sat only), from 10am-12pm. Please join us for tea, coffee & cake. All welcome
25 Aug Wisborough Green Village Fete & Fun Dog Show. Village Green. 1pm. See page 35
25 Aug Billinghurst Lions Club Car Boot Sale. Six Bells Car Park (by Library car park). 9am - 12 noon. Contact Sandy Duck to book a space, tel: (01403) 786146 or e-mail - sandyduck@btinternet.com
26 Aug Billinghurst Lions Club Car Boot Sale. Six Bells Car Park (by Library car park). 9am-12 noon. Contact Sandy Duck to book a space, tel: (01403) 786146 or e-mail: sandyduck@btinternet.com
28 Aug 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
30/31 Aug ABC Animal Sanctuary Annual Open Weekend. Juggs Lane, West Chiltington, RH20 2JS. 11.30am4.30pm. £6 (U12 free), well behaved dogs on leads welcome. See page 34 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
Lions Club Ever Popular Car Boot Sales
Billingshurst & District Lions Club are pleased to announce that the next Car Boot Sale will be held on August Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August, 9am-12noon, in the Six Bells Car Park (off the Library Car Park). For full details and to book a space, please contact Sandy Duck, e-mail: sandyduck@btinternet.com or tel: 07717 822804.
But, where and how did car booting begin, and why are they so popular?
According to our friendly Google, Father Harry Clarke, a Catholic priest from Stockport, allegedly introduced car boot sales to the UK in 1976 as a charity fundraiser, after visiting a similar event on holiday in Canada. This may well have been Denio’s Roseville Farmers’ Market and Swap Meet in Ontario, founded in the late 1940s by Jim and Marilee Denio.
The first commercial car boot sale is said to have been at Nepicar Farm in Kent, in September 1980, with approximately 200 stalls and attended by more than 2000 people. Car boot sales in various forms are now popular across Europe and throughout the world.
Car boots are often referred to as ‘flea markets’, a term thought to be a literal translation from the French marché aux puces, due to infected furniture arriving for sale. The Germans call them flohmarkt, the Dutch
vlooienmarkt, in Sweden loppmarknad and in Finland, kirpputori. The Spanish use piojito in some areas, meaning ‘little louse’. In Australia they’re ‘trash and treasure markets’, whilst Americans and Canadians refer to ‘trunk sales’, their name for car boots, but ‘trunk sales’ can also mean items sold from a suitcase! It has been suggested that car boots are a practical, efficient way of recycling, whilst others suggest their popularity stems from people having a yearning to trade and barter, enjoying the social interaction and revelling in the thrill of hunting – and possibly finding that elusive bargain!
Whatever your motivation, Billingshurst Lions look forward to welcoming you to the Six Bells Car Park on Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August. Follow Billingshurst Lions on Facebook and www.billingshurstlions.org
Harvey Holmes – Press Officer, Billingshurst & District Lions Club
Photo: Come and join the crowd on Bank Holiday Monday at the Billingshurst Lions Car Boot event
Community / Fire station / Aircraft noise
AUGUST SCHEDULE
Date Time
Trip Description
Friday 1st 11.30 am Parham House and Gardens £15.50 or garden only £11.50
Sunday 3rd 11.30 am Eastbourne with optional Arun Concert Band
Monday 4th 11.30 am Knepp Wilding Kitchen and Shop for lunch
Tuesday 5th 10.00 am Hollycombe Steam Museum
Wednesday 6th 11.30 am Riverside Café, Houghton Bridge
Thursday 7th 9.00 am Horsham & Sainsbury’s
Thursday 7th 1.30 pm Tesco
Friday 8th 10.00 am Holmbush M&S and Tesco
Monday 11th 10.30 am Notcutts and Ditchling Scenic Drive
Tuesday 12th 9.00 am Three Rivers Cruise for those on waiting list only
Wednesday13th 11.00 am Holly Tree Pub, Walberton for lunch
Thursday 14th 9.00 am Horsham & Sainsburys
Thursday 14th 2.30pm Lidl
Tuesday 19th 11.00 am
Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
Wednesday 20th 09.00 am Eastbourne
Thursday 21st 9.00 am Horsham & Sainsbury’s
Thursday 21st 1.30 pm Tesco
Friday 22nd 10.00 am Mystery Drive and lunch
Tuesday 26th 11.30 am Old Barn Garden Centre for lunch
Wednesday 27th 10.00 am Chichester Market Day
Thursday 28th 9.00 am Horsham & Sainsbury’s
Thursday 28th 1.30 pm Tesco
Friday 29th 11.00 am Sea Lane Café forlunch
Saturday 30th 11.00 am Wey and Arun Canal Trip, Cost TBC
New Recruit at Billingshurst Fire Station
We welcome Harvey Betts to Billingshurst Fire Station after successfully passing his initial course at Horsham Fire Station.
Harvey follows his father’s footsteps by joining the Fire Service. Harvey’s dad, Richard Betts used to be in charge at Billingshurst and is well respected throughout the Service, so some big boots to fill, Harvey. I’m sure you will do him proud, and the sound of your alerter going off, he may just dash out the door as well!
During Harvey’s recruitment process he also applied for London Fire Brigade, and has been accepted. So Harvey will disappear for a few months whilst completing his training course for London. We look forward to having you back soon though and wish you all the best with the course.
Our next Charity Car Wash will be in September and the date will be in next month’s issue.
Twitter: @Station49Fire
Facebook: Billingshurst Fire Station
Dan Game, Billingshurst Fire Station
Photo: Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dave Bray presents Harvey Betts with his Retained Firefighter Certificate
Proposed Solar Farm Raises Concerns Among Local Equestrians
The proposed Wisborough Green Solar Farm has raised serious concerns within the local equestrian community, especially regarding Zone 1, a recently added section bordering Drungewick Lane. This narrow, rural lane is well-used by riders and walkers, forming a key link to five bridleways and four footpaths, as well as connecting directly to the scenic Wey-South Path.
Drungewick Lane is signed for narrow vehicle access (under 6'6"), includes eleven blind bends, and already requires cautious driving. However, the solar farm construction phase is expected to generate more than 5,000 two-way vehicle movements, including over 1,000 16.5m-long HGVs over a 20-24 week period. These vehicles will share roads and bridleways with horses, despite the known risks posed by sudden noise, glint and glare, and confined spaces –conditions that can spook even experienced horses.
Access Statement’ makes no reference to horses, riders, or equestrian safety.
Several bridleways will be directly affected by trenching and traffic. These are not just transit routes; they are essential for equine welfare, rider safety, and local businesses. The BHS recommends avoiding construction traffic on bridleways and restoring any damaged surfaces to horse-safe conditions – standards not adequately addressed in the application.
The long-term impacts include potential loss of safe riding routes, landscape degradation, and reduced access to circular hacking trails – particularly troubling for riders without horseboxes who rely solely on local public rights of way. Beyond equestrians, the disruption threatens local tourism and countryside businesses tied to recreation and outdoor access.
The developer’s consultation process has been criticised as insufficient and misleading. Zone 1 was not included in the initial community engagement, and the British Horse Society (BHS) Access Officer reports no ongoing dialogue or response from developers. Furthermore, the planning application’s ‘Design and
Residents are encouraged to examine the planning documents carefully and raise concerns through the formal planning objection process to help protect the future of the area’s rural character and equestrian community. Alternatively, e-mail: dcplanning@chichester.gov.uk with reference 25/00658/FUL, your name and address and your reason for objecting.
ADVERTISERS INDEX August 2025
Moving house?
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