60s Music Evening in Ditchling

60s Music Evening in Ditchling
Saturday October 15, 7.30pm
Ditchling Village Hall

Following the last two years’ sell-out 60s music disco in Ditchling Village Hall, we are repeating the event on October 15 featuring, as before, DJ Andy Young and all those great bands of the 60s decade.

Come and dance to the Rolling Stones, Beatles, Kinks, Supremes, Manfred Mann and all your favourites and help raise money for a wildlife charity (see below) at the same time.

Tickets cost £12 and include light refreshments. A well-stocked bar will be available, but you can bring your own drinks if you prefer. As numbers are strictly limited, it is advisable to book your tickets early to avoid being disappointed, which happened to some people the last two years. Tickets are available from August 1st at Ditchling Post Office and Parkers or by phoning 01273 845361. NO TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR.

The charity which will benefit is Fauna & Flora International (reg charity 1011102), backed by Sir David Attenborough. Last year we helped Indonesia’s threatened orang utans; this year we’re donating the proceeds to the very endangered Cross River gorillas of Cameroon.

Make sure you get ‘Satisfaction’ by getting your ticket early – don’t risk turning ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ by leaving it too late!

A country garden in harmony with nature

by Ruth Lawrence

Sunlight caught a needle thin, bright blue damselfly hovering gently above the pond while scent from roses lingered in the air like expensive perfume. I had to remind myself I was working.

Alice Dreaver’s colourful cottage garden tumbles with butterflies, roses and the occasional heron who fishes in the pond, built around an ‘island’ of russet stone.

When she and her husband bought the Fletching property in 1993, the garden was a haven for the dreaded Japanese knotweed. “I dug for half an hour every day for two years to get rid of it”, Alice remembers.

Now, the dense planting stops weeds from taking hold and she leaves plants to self seed where they choose. Parts of the garden were inspired by Wakehurst and there isn’t a straight line in sight. “In winter I still get the beauty of the curves,” says Alice, showing me how the sweeping lines lead the eye in a journey rather than coming to a stop. Alice had a simple philosophy of “anything goes as long as it grows. It’s all welcome.” Her eclectic approach has produced a fabulous mix of contrasting colours, heights, textures and scents.

“There’s a huge amount of different plants here,” Alice tells me as she lists a few of her favourites: clematis (there’s a hundred of them), climbing roses (including ‘Summer Wine’ that flowers all summer long), astrantia, day lilies, iris, sweet scented violas, delphiniums and lots of different campions. Sourcing plants from local suppliers has ensured that they grow slower and sturdier than garden centre varieties and Alice recalls that “there was no master plan, it just gradually evolved.”

Her garden is impressively wildlife friendly: toads, frogs and damselflies live alongside finches, song thrushes, wrens and the elegant heron, a regular visitor. Always a collector of the softly coloured local brick and stone, Alice used them as pavers; they are a perfect match for the ancient cottage and original brick privy that sits pretty among purple clematis.

The garden is deliberately overplanted so that nothing had to be staked. Honeysuckle and clematis hold other plants up and Alice uses climbing roses which she bends over to support delphiniums. There is scarcely a bare inch of soil and even an old tree trunk has a second life as a support for bright blooms that coil around it like a snake. The curved pond is an optical illusion – a round ‘island’ is reached via a stepping stone over a narrow ‘moat’. It’s a wonderful visual trick, skilfully constructed in the same russet brick as the cottage.

Alice has created an enviable natural haven here. Her graft and passion have made a garden of casual beauty, home to plentiful wildlife and a perfect place to gently unwind. ■

News from Hammerwood Park, East Grinstead

Dear Friends

Ben Scott last played at Hammerwood a couple of years ago at the age of 18. He's even more amazing now.

If you have not experienced an organ recital before, or have experienced one and not fallen in love with the instrument, Ben is the performer to come to hear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hARaveymVI was part of his recital a couple of years ago - and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0FjU0Iqlhk

On his programme this year I see he's playing the piece by Corrette which was composed to teach nuns how to use the organ to imitate thunder! Should be GREAT!

Sunday 2nd October, Neil Crossland, piano - Schubert is the next date in the dairy at this stage . . .

Adults non members £12 Members £10 children FREE and ADULTS BRINGING
CHILDREN HALF PRICE - please ring 01342 850594 to let us know you;re coming.

Bach – Fantasia BWV 542
Bryan Kelly – Passacaglia
Kim – Petite Fugue sur Nokia
Pachelbel – Chaconne
Keith Chapman – Fanfare and Procession
Edward Elgar - Nimrod
Kenneth Leighton – Ode
Louis Vierne – Les Cloches de Hinckley

INTERVAL

Widor – Symphonie No 6 Movement 1
Corrette – Grand Jeux avec Tonnerre
Minuet – Boellmann
Louis Marchand - Plein Jeu
Jean Langlais – Te Deum
Improvisation on submitted themes

Best wishes
David Pinnegar B.Sc. A.R.C.S.

Hammerwood Park
East Grinstead Sussex RH19 3QE - UK
Tel +44 1342 850594

August Events at Lingfield Park

‘Roll up Roll up’ – the circus comes to Lingfield Park on Friday 5th August

The Surrey Mirror Family Fun Day at Lingfield Park is the perfect way to entertain the family.
This year’s event is circus themed and everyone has the opportunity to join in. Learn the skills of juggling clubs, spinning plates or test your balance on a rola-bola! Have your face painted like a clown or perfect your tumbling skills on our bouncy castles. Our resident balloon modeller ‘Miss Ballooniverse’ will be on hand to create surprises for everyone.

We also have a Wii Power Bowling tournament for all ages to participate in (with prizes!) and don’t forget you can decorate a mug or plate as a souvenir of your day. There’ll also be music from a local band to generate a great atmosphere throughout the afternoon.

Make sure you arrive early as you’ll have the opportunity to go on our behind-the-scenes tour of the racecourse. This is a fascinating insight into how a race day is produced and allows access into many restricted areas. The tour will end with the opportunity to test your race riding skills on our mechanical horse – ‘The Equiciser’.

Gates open at midday, with the tour commencing at 12.40pm. The first of seven races is off at 2.10pm with the last one due to start at 5.10pm.


Saturday 6th August
Racing and Music Night featuring Jamie Archer and local band Naked Bass.
We ran a competition to offer a local band the opportunity to play on our big stage in front of a large crowd. East Grinstead based Naked Bass won the audition and will get to perform before our headline act Jamie Archer. Jamie, who’s first single with band Archer will be released on 15th August, is on good form to rock Lingfield Park with a number of well known classics.
Gates open at 3.50pm with the first race off at 5.50pm. The music will start around 8.30pm for an hour.

Saturday 13th August
Racing and Music Night featuring Maybe Gaga
We round the summer evenings off in style with a performance that you can not afford to miss. With Maybe Gaga and her dancers performing all the hits, you won’t be able to resist singing along.
Gates open at 3.40pm with the first race 5.40pm. The music will begin around 8.20pm for one hour.

Tickets are available now for all of these fantastic events. Buy at least two working days in advance to get the early booking discount.

Don’t forget that accompanied under 18’s are admitted free of charge and all activities around course are also free!

For further information, please contact 01342 834 800 or visit www.lingfieldpark.co.uk

Join us, you’re welcome!

A Talk on ancient trees

The Woodland, Flora & Fauna Group, a volunteer group dedicated to protecting local countryside and wildlife, has organised a public talk by Edward Parker, the Project Manager of the Woodland Trust’s Ancient Tree Hunt.

It will take place on Thursday, 25th August at 7.30 pm in the Main Hall at Hurstpierpoint Village Centre, Trinity Road, Hurstpierpoint.

The illustrated talk entitled ‘Ancient Trees’ examines the most spectacular ancient trees of the world including the magnificent range of specimens found in this country, and examines what makes them grow to such ages. It includes giant oaks in England of more than 12 metres in girth and over a thousand years old and Welsh yew trees which could be nearly as old as the Great Pyramids of Egypt.

With a growing awareness of trees having such an important role in our life on earth Edward highlights the work of the Ancient Tree Hunt and his effort to record 100,000 ancient, veteran and notable trees before the end of 2011.

Please come along to listen and marvel at the survival of such ancient natural monuments of ages past. Entry is free and all are welcome. There is a car park opposite the building.

Rachel Ricketts Weight Loss: Light years ahead

by Nicole Tata

If the question is ‘How do I stop being overweight once and for all?’ then the answer is Rachel Ricketts. Her tried and tested weight loss programme is entirely free of spin and gadgetry and gets the job done quickly, safely and for good.

As any dieter knows only too well, losing weight is a serious business. “I don’t run an open-ended diet club where you pay per week and lose a pound here or there,” says Rachel. “I want at least 3 months’ commitment from you, in return for which I will teach you exactly how to reach and maintain your target weight, using the Metabolic Weight Loss programme. You will receive one-to-one support all the way.”

Sounds too good to be true? Not really, when you consider that Rachel’s highly personalised weight loss consultancy has helped over 1,500 women and men to achieve their long-term dream of a happy, healthy weight. From housewives to senior execs, teenagers to grandparents, Rachel’s clients are focused on one clear goal: permanent weight loss to improve their looks and general wellbeing.

This is much more than just a diet. “It’s as much about understanding WHY you’re overweight as it is about actually shifting the pounds,” says Rachel. She helps her clients identify the specific underlying causes that stop them losing weight, allowing them to keep the weight off once and for all. The programme also quickly deals with feelings of hunger and cravings, making failure much less likely.

It’s all too easy to be lulled into thinking that we’re eating healthily. Bowl of cereal for breakfast, sandwich for lunch and pasta for tea? Wrong! “There are so many different diets out there, no wonder people are confused. Some of my clients need to be completely re-educated about the effects of nutrition on their bodies, while others just need fine-tuning.” Rachel’s eating plan uses normal foods that are easily available – no funny shakes, pills or medication.

Judging by Rachel’s long list of delighted clients, the programme is hugely successful. She has also earned the respect of local GPs who are very impressed by the weight loss and health improvements they’ve seen in some of their patients as a result of working with Rachel.

Rachel’s clients have found the Metabolic Weight Loss Programme more cost-effective than paying endlessly into diet clubs. She explains: “One lady came to see me; she was 4 stone overweight. ‘I can’t afford it,’ she said but she was so impressed with what a friend had achieved on the programme that she asked her husband to pay for it as a combined Christmas and birthday present to her. In just 10 weeks she had actually recouped the cost of the programme by not having her nightly bottle of wine and by changing her eating habits. It took her less than four months to slim down from a size 18-20 to a size 10, losing an amazing 4 stone!”

Rachel is committed to providing the very best weight loss consultancy service, giving her clients a clear structure to follow and lots and lots of one-to-one support. And the programme works! In essence, she provides all the tools you’ll ever need to reach and maintain a healthy weight – for life! ■

Rachel Ricketts Weight Loss Consultant
Tel. 01342 327396 / 01825 705020
www.rachelrickettsweightloss.co.uk

Summer Fun at Borde Hill

1st - 26th August

Explore, play and picnic at Borde Hill this summer

Kids may never have a dull moment at Borde Hill Garden this summer holidays as the Garden, set in 200-acre park andwoodland, puts on an exciting programme of fun and intrigue to keep active minds and bodies busy.

They’ll be enthralled by the exciting tree trail and exercised by the adventure playground, all set in sprawling parkland and lovely landscaped lakes with wildlife ponds to explore.

Kids’ Summer Fun runs from 1st to 26th August and includes activities such as Robbie the Magician, Go Kart Party and Splodge Arts and Crafts (making butterflies, insects and fish).
An amazing experience awaits children and adults alike as Animazing once again visit Borde Hill throughout the summer, offering visitors the chance to get up close and personal with a menagerie of exotic wildlife, including insects, snakes, hedgehogs and tortoises.
Children and parents can trek through the magical woodlands and panoramic parkland that make Borde Hill a must-visit destination for all the family.

Into an area renowned for its iron-making arrives a host of giant animal sculptures, crafted by creative blacksmiths Anvil Ironworks. Watch out for the wolf spider, crocodile and dragonfly and other animals, as well as flowers, all beautifully wrought and textured, that will create wonder and surprise around the garden.

Then, after all the activity, simply chill out and picnic by the water or relax in the Elvira café and enjoy a mouth watering selection of home produced foods.

More details at www.bordehill.co.uk, 01444 450326

Rachel Hobbs in Ghana: Home is where your heart is...

by Rachel Hobbs

Four bright yellow walls surround me, a fan violently moving in circles above my head, a cold stone floor below my feet and beautifully fresh pineapple is satisfying my tummy; every evening for the past month these have been my circumstances, yet only now is it starting to feel comforting, a bit like a temporary home I suppose.

LOVE KIDS FOOTBALL ACADEMY has ensured that the past week has been extraordinarily busy, on top of educating and caring for the children at the orphanage and Finnley I have been in numerous communications with global football teams, potential sponsors as well as two very generous people from Sussex, one of whom has agreed to design the website and raise some funds for the academy, the other a concert pianist has offered to put together a performance in LOVE KIDS name.

On Saturday, hundreds of youths arrived in Nkoranza to trial for the teams, it was a sweltering hot day and they all played for an hour. When they weren’t training they all were eager to play with Finnley, which of course he loved. The football talent was astounding, hopefully we will raise enough funds to enable all the children to join the academy but for now the head coach, Barfo Mohammed chose two youth teams, selecting the most dedicated and gifted players. We are urgently looking for sponsors of the team and players individually, as well as appealing for second hand boots, equipment and training kits; our goal of raising £5,000 to be a UK charity seems like a mammoth task currently. Since the trials the chosen players have been coming to see me at the orphanage to sign forms and have their official photographs taken. In addition to providing advanced football training, the academy eventually wants to provide education and health advice to its players; on Sunday they will all be gathering for a sex education lesson I will be taking, in which I have invited Ghana Aids Commission to speak at. There may be something a little ironic about a teenage mother leading a lecture on safe sex, however I think with the increase if S.T.I.s worldwide it is essential that we teach our players to be as healthy as they possibly can be.

I only realised how busy I had been this week when I went to wash our clothes yesterday, there were a huge amount of them and it took me hours to wash them all. The chemicals in the soap here are very strong so my hands are always raw afterwards. Luckily as soon as some of the children came home from school they all helped out, which I was extremely grateful for. The children love being affectionate towards both Finnley and myself, I always seem to have a child hanging off an arm or a leg or sitting on me. I spoke briefly to the orphanage director about it and he explained that the way of life is to train your children rather than play with them, which hurt me a little, but then like so many other things – life in Ghana is so very different to the UK.

Today Finnley, I and Kofi, the ‘father’ of the orphanage took a trip to the weekly market. It is a long walk and with Finnley, whom weighs 11 kilograms, strapped to my back with a sheet, I was exhausted when we arrived; luckily the skies were over cast today so it was not too hot. I purchased pens for all the children as they always claim they have none so cannot complete any mathematical tasks I set them, now they have no excuse. They were beyond elated when I presented them their pens this afternoon and their shouts of ‘God bless you’ were appreciated, but I found slight over the top. I also purchased cake ingredients to bake with Finnley for the children as well as nail varnish. We did nail painting this evening and the girls enjoyed it thoroughly; most of the boys declined, however one little boy asked for his fingers to be painted gold, but then quickly wiped them all off before they had dried. Homosexuality as well as cross dressing is illegal in Ghana, even Finnley playing with a Barbie doll in the bath made the other children stare at him strangely.

Finnley is still loving every minute of Ghana and everyone in Ghana seems to love him too; they know his name and I am referred to simply as ‘Finn’s mother’. We have been here over a month now and the days seem to be flying by, I just hope I have enough time to make a positive difference to as many people’s lives as I can in my few weeks remaining.

Rachel x

A view from the Downs

by Roger Linn

Now is the time of the village Fete.

Every village and hamlet in Sussex has a Summer Fete and they are my favourite English eccentricity. It is important to remember that a ‘Fete’ is not a ‘Fair’ which is an altogether grander and more complex celebration. From medieval times, when life was much harsher, the annual Fair was held to allow the villagers a rare opportunity to get completely legless without censure from the authorities, whereas Fetes have always been held in aid of the church roof. Presumably, medieval church roofs were in pretty good shape, so Fetes have really only come into their own in the last couple of hundred years or so.

They run to a well-established formula with only slight regional variations. A minor celebrity is required to open the event. In fact, often the same minor celebrity can open the same Fete for years and, tradition being what it is, offence can be caused by changing this celebrity to another one who just happens to be a friend of the vicar. Once the Fete is ‘open’, the visitors, most of whom have been there since early morning and are in any event related to the Fete’s organisers, are free to circulate among the time-honoured stalls, games and cake stands. Most of these attractions are probably required by law since they appear at every Fete. ‘Splat the Rat’, Tombola, The Bottle Stall, and Skittles are very popular alongside the evergreens like throwing a wet sponge at someone’s father, or guessing the weight of the cake.

Optional entertainments can include a children’s fancy dress competition (once won by my daughter dressed as a parcel), and an ‘interesting pets’ show which must include at least two tortoises, a guinea pig and a tame rat. The Brownies maypole dancing display is always eagerly anticipated, if only because it can sometimes go horribly wrong. And when Fete fatigue has finally set in, there are always the reviving teas, sandwiches, buns and cream cakes provided by the ladies of the choir or the WI – even if they are often the same people.

Rain is the only enemy of this joyful summer event, when a downpour can turn a happy Sussex afternoon into a Fete worse than death.

Hickstead: Gary Parsonage makes history in the Amlin Plus Eventing Grand Prix

Gary Parsonage @Samantha Lamb

Gary Parsonage secured a significant win in Thursday’s Amlin Plus Eventing Grand Prix at Hickstead, becoming the only rider to win the class four times.

Having won the second ever Eventing Grand Prix at Hickstead back in 1999 on Just So I, Gary then had back-to-back wins in 2008 and 2009 on Peter Street. He finished second last year, behind Shane Breen, and in this year’s reprisal of the popular event riders versus showjumpers showdown, Gary and last to go Peter Street put in a blistering clear to win for an incredible fourth time.

Gary is now going to retire Peter Street from top flight competition. “It’s a lovely way to finish his career – he’s 17 now and over the years he’s been brilliant,” said Gary. “You need a very special horse to jump this course, and a horse like that takes a bit of finding.”

Germany’s Marcus Ehning won the Bunn Leisure Trophy earlier, claiming the £6,500 first prize on board Noltes Kuchengirl.

“She has a lot of experience and I’ve been riding her for a long time, so I know her well and what she’s capable of,” Marcus said of the mare.

Riders had an early start this morning, with 79 starters in the Royal International Vase and action kicking off at 8.30am. Guy Williams put in an unbeatable time on board Djakarta. “She’s a young horse but she’s really competitive. She’ll spend the rest of the week in the smaller classes but you have to give them a taste of the big arena at some stage – and she just blew me away.”

In the showing classes, the winner of the Leeman Supreme Hunter Championship was Loraine Homer and the six-year-old Major Moylaw. Loraine, who is the daughter of showman David Tatlow, claimed the tricolor after heading the heavyweight hunters with Mr and Mrs Alan Hall’s impressive 17hh gelding.

“He has a wonderful attitude, and just wants to be a show horse,” said Loraine. “He walks in the ring and it feels like he owns it. I’ve been lucky enough to win a lot of major classes but today’s win was the best reception I’ve ever had, he’s such a popular horse.”

On Friday (today) the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead will host the official FEI Nations Cup™ of Great Britain, where the home team will aim to repeat their victory of 2010. Team manager Rob Hoekstra said: “There are eight very strong teams here, and anyone could win it on the day. [FEI Nations Cup series leaders] The Netherlands have had a fantastic start, but we will be trying our best to win.”

Formation of a New Society – Mid Sussex Philatelic Society

The towns of Burgess Hill and Haywards Heath are only a few miles apart and their philatelic societies had members who belonged to both societies. While neither society was under immediate threat of closure it was felt that the long term future for philatelic meetings in their area would be best achieved by a merger.

The new society, Mid Sussex Philatelic Society, held its inaugural meeting in May at which a full complement of officers and committee were elected. The meeting was attended by over 30 members from both societies.

Visiting speakers to the new society’s 2011-12 Programme include Christine Earle (Secretary of the Royal Philatelic Society) displaying her gold medal exhibit ‘The Post Office Goes to War’, John Hayward (President of the British Thematic Association) showing a thematic display entitled ‘The Iron Steed’ and Peter High (President of the Forces Postal History Society) exhibiting a postal history display relating to wartime hospital ships’ mail.

The Society will meet fortnightly on Wednesdays from September to May at Burgess Hill School for Girls, Keymer Road, Burgess Hill. For further information contact the Secretary, Jim Etherington, tel: 01273 471897 or email; jespeth@hotmail.com

The future of footnball

by Rachel Hobbs in Ghana

We have started a football academy for youths in Ghana and are desperately looking for sponsors and funds as well as international football links in order for the teams to develop. Below is an article I wrote going in a Ghanaian newspaper advertising the trials last Saturday:

The future of football

Do you have the talent to be the next Micheal Essien, Abedi Pele or Abdul Razak? Do you want superior fitness training, personalized nutrition and to play for a team with international football links? If so, Nkoranza welcomes LOVE KIDS FOOTBALL ACADEMY to its district and is offering you the chance to be a part of it.
 
LOVE KIDS ACADEMY, named after LOVE KIDS ORPAHANGE based in Nkoranza begun after Mr Francis Adu realised the lack of physical, emotional and financial support available for the young, talented footballers of the Brong-Ahafo region. Along with the assistance of Rachel Hobbs, a current English volunteer at the orphanage, business plans were implemented, football kits and equipment were purchased and LOVE KIDS ACADEMY was born.

This not for profit organization aims to provide an opportunity to young, dedicated footballers to mature into the talented players they have ability to be. It also provides a chance for all children to not only amplify their football talent but also create a place for them to feel safe, develop their social skills and improve their physical fitness as well as guide them to live a successful, trouble free life.
 
With over thirty local boys already attending fitness training on a regular basis, the justification happening on Saturday 23rd July 2011 and welcoming footballers from all regions looks as if it will be extremely popular; choosing the best talent for an under 12 years and under 15 years team will most certainly prove challenging.
 
LOVE KIDS ACADEMY is proud to introduce renowned coach and retired footballer Mr Barfo Mohammed who will be leading training sessions, supported by assistant coach Osman Nabri. With the aid of fitness instructor and nutritionist Rachel Hobbs, the management team have huge faith that the players of LOVE KIDS ACADEMY will excel to play worldwide.
 
The success of LOVE KIDS players is already evident by the international football link the novel ACADEMY has with the thriving UK side The Robins. This along with potential sponsorships looking optimistic allows Chief Executive Officer Mr Francis Adu to put the preparations in place for the long term goals of the academy. Mr Adu whom already successfully directs LOVE KIDS ORPHANAGE, ensuring the children in this family run care home are happy and healthy, as well as providing them with a private education; eventually plans to purchase training grounds and housing in order to accommodate the players of the academy. Mr Adu, who appeared alongside Rachel Hobbs and Mohammed Barfo on FM Radio said in a statement “We have all the preparation in place to ensure LOVE KIDS ACADEMY and its players are a huge success, we take our training, fundraising and management very seriously and want to create an environment where our players feel they have the best chance of playing football at an international level. We are here to train and support them to achieve their dream.’
 
For the opportunity to be a part of an inevitably successful team the justify for LOVE KIDS ACADEMY will take place at Nkoranza Children’s Park at 12pm on Saturday 23rd July. For any further queries please call ............."

Ideally for the justify we need water and oranages for 200 people minimum as this is the interest we have had - this comes to about £45, then to accomodate the coach and treasurer for a month we are looking at about £200 - plus any donations of equipment, boots etc. So in comparison to UK rent etc it is very cheap, but I am not sure of the best way to raise this money, then obviously get larger sponsors for the players individually or as a team.

Can you help?

Feathers and finery in Hurstpierpoint

by Nicole Tata

Feathers of Hurstpierpoint has been dressing the ladies of Mid Sussex and beyond for nearly 30 years. Anne Graham-Evans’ shop is testament to the sheer exuberance and joy with which she approaches fashion.

Walk into Feathers and it will take you a moment or so to take it all in; Anne freely admits she is no minimalist. Her shop is an exciting treasure trove of covetable clothing for all us girls – young and old, big and small. There are racks and rails of colour co-ordinated separates, workwear, casual wear and jeans, eveningwear, outerwear, and accessories aplenty. You could lose yourself here for hours, and it would be nigh on impossible to leave having found nothing – I’ve certainly never managed it!

“English fashion is individual. Look at Vivienne Westwood, Zandra Rhodes – we have fun with our clothes!” Anne’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Women in Milan and Paris are always very smart, but the way they dress can be exceedingly boring.” Anne’s skill in putting together a unique look with pieces sourced from carefully selected suppliers has stood her in good stead for many years, and she has many loyal customers who will travel long distances to Hurst. “My expertise is in dealing with people and in helping them choose an outfit that makes them feel good. One doesn’t want to be part of the wallpaper. When you walk into a room, you want people to look up and spot you!”

Anne’s decision to put her retirement plans on hold has filled her with renewed vigour to drive the business forward and she is now in full swing for autumn, getting the shop ready for the new collections that are arriving daily.

Feathers is particularly known for its large and very popular Joseph Ribkoff collection, with smart separates and wonderfully versatile dresses that can take you from day into evening. There are also a variety of European labels including Passport from Germany, and NP from Finland which goes up to a size 20. This season’s newcomers are butter-soft Mongolian cashmere scarves and Brodie knitwear.

Utterly charming and with a true passion for fashion, Anne is never happier than when a customer finds the perfect garment. “If you look good in something, then for goodness’ sake buy it!” I can’t help thinking that she is saying it for all the right reasons. ■

Feathers of Hurstpierpoint
155 High Street, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex BN6 9PU
Tel. 01273 834686
www.feathersofhurstpierpoint.co.uk

McIndoe Surgical Centre: We need your old bras!

McIndoe Surgical Centre in East Grinstead are no strangers to meeting women who have old bras, usually, as by the time they leave the hospital they are smaller or bigger in the chest area and are keen to indulge in a spot of lingerie buying for their new shape.

Well now the old bras that everyone seems to have lurking in the back of their drawers can be put to excellent use by donating them to us for charity. BreastTalk.co.uk raise money for breast cancer research by giving the bras they collect to BCR Global Textiles. BCR sell them to traders in third world countries to which helps support and supply their own local economy. This creates employment in poorer environments and allows the residents in these areas to make the choice as to what to purchase whilst creating viable local economy.

BCR Textiles pay £1 per kilo of bras collected and send a cheque directly to UK charity Breast Cancer Campaign. BreastTalk.co.uk does not handle any moneys raised nor do they take any admin fees - every penny is donated.

So far their bra appeal has helped raise £6727 and this total will keep rising thanks to you sending us your old bras.

What Types Of Bra Can You Donate?

•   Any style - but not too sexy or see through.
•   Any Size - Especially very large or very small sizes.
•   European sizes are fine.
•   Maternity or Nursing bras are fine.

If you would like to help us raise the amount of bras collected for Breast Cancer charities and to help third world countries, please bring your old bras along to McIndoe Surgical Centre in Holtye Road, where you can drop them off through the month of August 2011. At the end of the month, we will package all donated bras up and send them over to Breasttalk for their appeal.

We look forward to your donations!

McIndoe Surgical Centre – for the life you want to live.

www.mcindoesurgical.co.uk
Helpline: 0800 917 4922

GLORIOUS comedy at Chequer Mead, East Grinstead

Associated Actors present The Green Room Theatre Company in Peter Quilter's hilarious comedy "Glorious".

The true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, the eccentric American soprano dubbed "the Diva of Din" and "Disaster on the high C's".

In spite of her imperfect pitch singing opera, she became a hugely popular cult in the 1940's in New York. She sold out at Carnegie Hall (over 3000) in her final concert. Maureen Lipman played this role successfully in the West End, and it is now played by actress Hal Dyer, wife and widow of local actor Michael Robbins.

Chequer Mead Theatre
East Grinstead
Friday 2 - Saturday 3 September, 2.30pm/7.30pm
Tickets £10
Tel. 01342 302000 or email info@chequermead.org.uk

Robins Nest Nursery

by Nicola Hobbs

Children love to play and through play will love to learn. Anna James makes this real for the children at Robins Nest.

Having fun, making a mess and learning, all go hand in hand at Robins Nest Day Nursery. The Nursery emphasises treating each child and their family as individuals and the educational development of children is personalised in the same way. From using toy trains dipped in paint to teach children to write, to encouraging them to splash in puddles to learn about water, Anna James, the hands-on owner of Robins Nest, has a never-ending stream of ideas to help children at the nursery reach their potential.

“We pride ourselves on the high quality of our staff. Not only are they all Level 3 qualified or working towards their qualification, but they are amazing at delivering the Early Years Curriculum and getting ideas across to the children,” says Anna.

Anna, who is a qualified primary school teacher, set up the nursery with her mum, Jenny Hyde, 10 years ago when she failed to find childcare for her son that met her standards. Jenny has nearly 40 years’ experience as a nursery nurse and between her and Anna they have developed an Early Years Programme that encourages the personal, social, emotional and educational development of children in an individual and fun way.

Robins Nest Day Nursery consists of a baby unit for children under two, and the main nursery for children aged two to five. A role-play room provides the opportunity for children to use their imagination and explore different characters and identities whilst the reading room helps children develop literacy and communication skills as well as offering a space to be quiet and relax. The messy room inspires creativity by giving the chance for textual play with sand, water, glitter and paint, and the literacy and numeracy area is packed full of fun educational material, as well as computers, so children can gain an understanding of the modern world.

There is free-flow policy at Robins Nest Day Nursery, meaning children can indulge in whatever activities they choose, helping them to learn in the way that suits them best. The large, fenced garden is fully equipped with sandpits, water tables and climbing frames to provide equal educational opportunities for those children who enjoy spending time outside. They can even grow their own food, such as courgettes and strawberries!

Anna’s passion to create a stimulating, nurturing and fun environment for the children has been recognised and she holds Early Years Professional Status, training other Early Years practitioners. The nursery has also received the highest standard possible for their food hygiene and all food is prepared fresh on-site by their cook, Belinda. “We know how important healthy food is to children’s development so we accommodate all tastes and are flexible in making meals that each child will enjoy,” says Anna.

From delicious, nourishing food to endless opportunities for learning and having fun, Robins Nest Day Nursery provides children with the opportunity to grow and develop in a secure, nurturing and loving environment. ■

Robins Nest Day Nursery
47 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath RH16 3BN
01444 413103 | www.robins-nest-nursery.co.uk

Follow Anna’s blog at: www.robins-nest-nursery.tumblr.com

Lunchtime Concert at Holy Trinity Church, Cuckfield

Recital of English music for piano and organ
Holy Trinity Church, Cuckfield
Monday 1st August at 1pm

The next lunchtime concert will be by Ken Sagar, one of the church's own organists. For those who saw HRH Prince Charles's recent TV programme about Hubert Parry they will hopefullhy not be disappointed, though other music from the 17th century until today will be featured. Admission free, but donations warmly welcomed in aid of the Church Reordering Project.

Jewellery Classes at Giraffe Gems in August

Giraffe Gems
Ote Hall Farm
Janes Lane
Burgess Hill
West Sussex RH15 0SR
01444 248475

Tuesday 2nd August 2-4pm Memory wire bracelet, every loop different.

Wednesday 3rd August 10.30-12.30 Children's Class Treasure Chest Fimo.

Thursday 4th August 2pm-4pm Summer Exuberance Necklace.

Friday 5th August10.30-12.30 Children's Class Ring-of-Roses Necklace.

Tuesday 9th August 2pm-4pm Gardener's Circle Necklace.

Wednesday 10th August 2pm-4pm Seed Beading Class.

Thursday 11th August 10.30=12.30 Children's Class Bertie the Bagkeeper.

Thursday 11th August 2pm-4pm Tila Bracelet.

Tuesday 16th 2pm-4pm Children's Class Ring-of-Roses Necklace.

Wednesday 17th August 10.30-12.30 Beginners' Class.

Thursday 18th August 10.30-12.30 Children's Class Treasure Chest Fimo.

Thursday 18th August 2pm-4pm Spiral and Semi Precious Necklace.

Saturday 20th 10.30-12.30 Loopy Bracelet.

Tuesday 23rd August 10.30-12.30 Children's Class Sea-Shore necklace.

Wednesday 24th August 10.30-12.30 Loops and Pearls Necklace.

Thursday 25th 10.30=12.30 Children's Class Fimo Spaghetti Beads.

Saturday 27th 10.30-12.30 Tila Bracelet.

Tuesday 30th August Indian Summer Neclace.

Wednesday 31st August 10.30-12.30 Loops and Pearls.

PROTECT YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR HOME !

OUR unpredictable weather can cause havoc with your DIY and leisure plans, but one thing you can’t afford to ignore any longer is damp in your home.

If it isn’t tackled it can cause further damage to your home and possible affect your health, even if the tell-tale signs have been less obvious after our very dry spring.

By acting now you can give your home a head start on drying out - preserving and protecting it for the future.

And because we tackle damp from the outside of your home, it’s quick to install and there’s no mess and no need for costly redecorating bills.

Our eco-friendly system of damp-proofing is chemical-free and comes with a 20-year guarantee. So making your home a drier and more pleasant place to live is only a phone call away. Call Holland Damp Proofing on 0808 1552571 or visit our website at www.dampproofing.com
 

Fulking Fair

Sunday 31st July 2011
Midday - 5pm at Downside Meadow.

BBQ, Live Music, Craft Stalls, Demonstrations, Dog Show, Beer Tent, Children's Amusements, Cream Teas, Produce and much much more.

www.fulkingvillage.co.uk

The Longines Royal International Horse Show, Hickstead

Olympic hopefuls head to Hickstead for the Longines Royal International Horse Show

The FEI Nations Cup™ of Great Britain on Friday 29 July forms one of the highlights of the Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead, and it is set to form a crucial stage in our preparations for London 2012.

The British riders who have been selected to represent their country at this home leg of the FEI Nations Cup series are Peter Charles (Murka’s Nevada VI), Bruce Menzies (Sultan V), Robert Smith (Talan), Michael Whitaker (GIG Amai II) and Guy Williams (Titus II). The British team will likely start favourites for this year’s competition, following their emphatic home victory in 2010.

The FEI Nations Cup™ of Great Britain, along with the Longines King George V Gold Cup at Hickstead, form two of the three Olympic showjumping qualifiers to be held in the United Kingdom before the 2012 Games. With the London Olympics on the horizon, a good performance by British riders at Hickstead will cement confidence for our medal chances in Greenwich.

Competition will be just as fierce in the other main showjumping classes at the show, which runs from 26-31 July. These include the Templant Events Queen Elizabeth II Cup, the fast and furious Sky Sports Speed Classic and the Bunn Leisure International Stakes.

A number of former Olympic event riders will also be at Hickstead on Thursday 28 July for the Amlin Plus Eventing Grand Prix, including Pippa Funnell, Mark Todd and Andrew Nicholson. This unique class sees showjumpers and event riders go head-to-head round a course of towering showjumps and daunting cross-country fences.

Sky Sports will be showing action from Hickstead’s International Arena from Thursday through to Sunday.

Entries for the International Showjumping Classes:

Great Britain

ARMSTRONG, Mark
CHARLES, Peter
FLETCHER, Tina
FUNNELL, William
MAHER, Ben
McPHERSON, David
MENZIES, Bruce
NEILSON, Daniel
RENWICK, Laura
SKELTON, Nick
SMITH, Robert
STOCKDALE, Tim
WHITAKER, Ellen
WHITAKER, John
WHITAKER, Michael
WHITAKER, Robert
WILLIAMS, Guy

International

BRUYNSEELS, Niels (BEL)
DEMEERSMAN, Dirk (BEL)
LANSINK, Jos (BEL)
PHILIPPAERTS, Olivier (BEL)
SPITS, Patrik (BEL)
MARTINSEN, Emilie (DEN)
LUND, Tina (DEN)
SCHOU, Christian (DEN)
TOFTE, Cecilie (DEN)
ENEMARK, Camilla (DEN)
DELESTRE, Simon (FRA)
GUILLON, Olivier (FRA)
HUREL, Jerome (FRA)
LEPREVOST, Penelope (FRA)
STAUT, Kevin (FRA)
EHNING, Marcus (GER)
MEYER, Janne-Friederike (GER)
DREHER, Hans-Dieter (GER)
WEISHAUPT, Philipp (GER)
WULSCHNER, Holger (GER)
BRUGGINK, Gert Jan (NED)
RAYMAKERS Jr, Piet (NED)
VAN DER SCHANS, Wout Jan (NED)
THIJSSEN, Leon (NED)
POELS, Aniek (NED)
CROOKS, Jennifer (IRL)
LYNCH, Denis (IRL)
TWOMEY, Billy (IRL)
BREEN, Shane (IRL)
FARRINGTON, Kent (USA)
HOUGH, Lauren (USA)
KRAUT, Laura (USA)
MADDEN, Beezie (USA)
McCREA, Christine (USA) AL SHARBATLY, Abdullah (KSA)

New Horizons Appeal Autumn Gift Fair

It’s Bigger and Better for 2011!

A larger marquee to ease shopping, a new look restaurant area solely for dining and extra loos, but the wonderful parkland setting remains the same thanks to the generosity of Sir Charles and Lady Burrell.

September timing for the New Horizons Appeal Autumn Gift Fair in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice at Knepp Castle, Shipley, West Sussex, with a Preview Night, Wednesday 21 September, 6.30-9pm (drinks and canapés) and Fair Day, Thursday 22 September, 9.30am-4pm.

Over 80 stalls await, offering everything from local produce and home made cakes to gifts for her, him and baby, from housewares and linens to leather bags, designer clothing and the latest swimwear. Knepp offers the perfect setting for such a delightful event, with ginger piglets and roaming wild deer this is the making of a perfect day out with friends - shop and lunch in pleasurable surroundings.
“The annual St Catherine’s Hospice Autumn Gift Fair is a great gathering with lots of people getting together to start their Christmas shopping nice and early.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to see friends whilst also raising money for such an important local cause”, commented Horshams MP, Francis Maude.
The Preview Night, Wednesday 21 September, 6.30pm-9pm, both a sociable and productive affair. Advance ticket can be purchased from ticket hotline- 01293 447367 at £15 per person.

Fair Day, Thursday 22 September, 9.30am-4pm, is a great days shopping and a must for lunch. Admission is £5 which includes a coffee and trendy cupcake. Free parking and disabled facilities available.

The Fair is organised by the volunteer ladies of the New Horizons Appeal in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice, and the venue given free by Sir Charles & Lady Burrell so guaranteeing that all money raised goes direct to helping the hospice that helps those terminally ill in Sussex and East Surrey.

For further information contact Paula Daly on 01293 447367/ pauladaly@stch.org.uk or visit www.stch.org.uk.

Fulking Village Fair

by Bob Rowland

Now in the third year of its rebirth, Fulking Village Fair will take place in Downsview Meadow in Fulking – offering wonderful views of the South Downs – on Sunday 31 July from 12 noon until 5pm.
Do come and join us – you will not be disappointed, nor will the kids!

Live music will be supplied by the very excellent ‘Fulking Flyers’ throughout the afternoon, with some very talented local musicians and singers performing.

One of the main attractions will be a Dog Show, with several classes for dogs of all shapes, sizes and colours, and prizes for winners of all classes.

A variety of refreshments will again be on offer – barbecue with burgers and hotdogs, cream teas, homemade cakes and biscuits, an ice cream tricycle, iced lollies and juices and a beer tent and bar.

We’re expecting 40 or so stalls – that’s nearly twice as many as last year! Come and browse country crafts (wood turning, stained glass, spinning and knitting), local produce, handmade jewellery, photographic items, hampers and wines.

There will be a family tombola with great prizes for all, a book stall with second hand books, CDs and DVDs; and a bicycle energy challenge!

For the children there will be Punch & Judy, balloon tricks and a magic show. There will also be a Story Teller and traditional games such as Whack the Rat, Hook the Duck, Stocks for Dads (and Mums?) for wet sponge throwing, a Coconut Shy and many other attractions.

Alpacas from our local herd will be on show.

The fair is organised by the Fulking Social Committee supported by the villagers and raises funds for village amenities. In recent years substantial support has been given to the renovation of the children’s playground, restoration of St Andrews church in Edburton, funding the printing of the Village Action Plan and financing the village monthly newsletter ‘Pigeon Post’. ■

Fulking Village Fair
Downsview Meadow, Fulking
Sunday 31 July, 12 noon – 17.00

Entry is £1 for adults and free for children under 16. Lots of free car parking available immediately next to the fair. St John’s Ambulance and toilets will be available on site.

Haywards Heath Town Day: Saturday 10th September

Haywards Heath Town Council and The Orchards Shopping Centre are busy putting the final touches to this event, which is supported by the HHDBA. The Town Council is very keen to support the business community and would be happy to welcome any company who might like to promote its products or services on the day.

A very minimal charge of £25 would buy you a good sized space, including gazebo if required.

But please do hurry, as they need to know by end of this Thursday 28th July! Call Helen Hewitt at the Town Hall on 01444 455694 or reply to this email and we'll pass across your details...

The Green Room Theatre Company: Glorious

by Roger Linn

Hal Dyer is an actress you’ve seen time and time again on the telly. Petite, vivacious, with flame-red hair, her list of credits includes all our staple TV fare from the last 30 or so years – everything from ‘On the Buses’ to ‘The Bill’ via ‘Crossroads‘ and the ‘Ruth Rendell Mysteries’.

You might remember her as a central character in the children’s series ‘Rent a Ghost’, caught her in ‘Compact’ or you may perhaps have missed her in ‘Emergency Ward 10’. Hal’s stage and film credits are just as eclectic and over the years she’s worked with and become friends with many of our greatest actors and actresses. She was delighted to tell me that her last film was a ‘Bollywood’ epic, “so perhaps I’m very big in Bombay,” she laughed.

In parallel with her very public acting career, Hal runs her own company – The Green Room Theatre Company – which has performed widely across the South East, and undertaken special projects in New York and London’s National Portrait Gallery. Composed of professional actors and actresses, all of whom have worked with Hal over the years, the company are going to be performing Peter Quilter’s hilarious comedy ‘Glorious’ at the Chequer Mead Theatre in East Grinstead in September.

‘Glorious’ follows the strange but true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, an American heiress who came to fame in the 1940s because she was convinced that she was an operatic diva. In fact, Florence’s singing voice was truly awful, as you can readily discover by simply looking her up on the web, although nobody knows for sure whether she knew this or not. Wittily described as variously ‘The diva of din’ and ‘A disaster on the high Cs’, did she really believe she could sing, despite all the evidence to the contrary, or was she just playing some wonderfully sustained joke? We don’t know. At all events, she was able to use her money, very considerable charm and sheer willpower to give concert after concert, culminating in her final triumph when she sang to a completely sold out Carnegie Hall in New York shortly before her death.

Maureen Lipman starred in the title role when the comedy, which was nominated for an Olivier award, opened its long, successful run in London. Hal, of course, will play Florence in September and she is much looking forward to it. I think it will be glorious! ■

The Green Room Theatre Companypresents Peter Quilter’s hilarious comedy GLORIOUS
Friday 2 September 7.30pm
Saturday 3 September 2.30pm / 7.30pm

Chequer Mead Theatre
De La Warr Road, East Grinstead,
West Sussex RH19 3BS
Tickets (£10) available from the box office 01342 302000 or email info@chequermead.org.uk

Hassocks Community Football Club

Hassocks Community Football Club is the proud recipient of the highest award in grassroots football. It is among just 12 clubs throughout Sussex to be granted the FA Charter Standard Community Club Award.

Community club status is the pinnacle of the club development pathway and identifies clubs that possess a high quality, multi-team set up with excellent social, training and playing opportunities for all. As such, the number of Community Clubs is one of the truest measures of success for the FA Football Development strategy.

BBC TV's Jonathan Pearce, who lives locally, is the newly elected Chair of rapidly growing Juniors Section. He says “My commentary work has taken me all over the world covering football from World Cup finals to FA Youth Cup finals but I am so proud to be part of such a go-ahead club as Hassocks. The young Robins have teams from Under 7 to Under 17 and the club draws from all levels of society. I firmly believe that football has the power to change lives and help young people achieve the goals they later set for themselves in their adult lives through the disciplines the game instils in them. Hassocks is the perfect nursery for budding talent to grow”.

“The award represents the hard work and commitment of the 3 Sections of the club –Juniors, Ladies and Seniors. With 20 teams and many volunteers, the Club is looking to develop a centre of excellence for football development across mid Sussex” states Roger Hobbs, Chair of the Club.

“Unlike many other clubs, all our income is invested in the development of managers, coaches and facilities at the Beacon Ground as we play for the love of the game. We have to “grow our own” and this is indicative of many of the players who are part of the first team coming up through the ranks of the juniors and youth teams”.

Mike Reynolds, Chair of the Ladies section praises the help and support that the Ladies have received from the Community Club in helping them develop into one of the most consistent and progressive Ladies Clubs in the County. “we are now entering our 12th season and were able to form a youth team to bridge the huge gap between Girl’s and Ladies Football and in times when Ladies Clubs are folding or being forced off the grounds of their parent club we continue to grow and develop which would not be possible without the support of Hassocks who recognise that football should be for everyone and that gender is not an issue”

The Longines Royal International Horse Show, Hickstead

The Longines Royal International Horse Show

27th - 31st July 2011

Free Admission for 2 adults or children on Wednesday 27th July or Saturday 30th July on production of the advert in the July Issue of Sussex Living!


We are delighted to be the long-standing host of the Longines Royal International Horse Show (Patron: Her Majesty The Queen), the Official Horse Show of The British Horse Society. Having celebrated its centenary in 2007, the RIHS is now the venerable age of 104, and one of the oldest horse shows in the world.

As one of the biggest outdoor shows in the country, the Longines Royal International Horse Show uniquely sees the elite of many equestrian disciplines compete side by side: it has everything from the thrills and spills of international showjumping to the elegance and glamour of the country's best showing horses and ponies, to the exhilarating buzz of the country's best eventers flying across country.


For showing riders, this is exclusively a championship show, and is the culmination of many months of qualifications throughout the winter, with a host of prestigious classes for every breed of British horse and pony. The show also stages the peak of winter national showjumping qualifiers as the home to the British Showjumping Winter Finals. As one of only eight global hosts to the FEI Nations Cup™ Series, the show is also the British public's only chance to see their national showjumping team compete on home ground.

With over 250 exhibitors, our shopping village is a hive of retail activity. If you are a seasoned shopper and intend to spend the entire day seeking out excellent show-discounts and special offers, or if you are merely looking for a souvenir of your day out, we have something to suit your tastes.

Whether you are after equine accessories, tack and supplies or fine clothing and exquisite jewellery you will not be disappointed. Even the most reluctant shopper will be able to understand why some of our loyal visitors actually come to Hickstead just for the shopping!

Rosanne Florists, Burgess Hill

Rosanne Florists is a long established Florists in Burgess Hill. We have built up an excellent reputation for good quality and a great service. We can provide flowers for every occasion.

We can also add a little something special to your order, we have a large range of helium balloons, chocolates, teddies and scented candles.

Clare Clayton, the proprieter has over 25 years of experience working for some of London's top florists, Clare and her staff will be able to assist you whatever your requirements.

If you are getting married come and visit us at The Olympos Burgess Hill Wedding Fair on 18th September 11am - 3pm to discuss your wedding flower needs.

5 Keymer Parade
Keymer Road
Burgess Hill RH15 0AB
www.rosanneflorists.com
01444 244792

Haywards Heath Library

Haywards Heath Library is launching the first reading group to be held at the Library itself, once a month, on Wednesday afternoons.

The Library already supports almost 100 reading groups in the surrounding area, providing access to a great range of books free of charge. But they are all held at other locations, and this is the first group to hold its meetings in the Library.

Customers will be able to meet at the Library and share and discuss a different book each month.

The first meeting will be on Wednesday September 7, at 2pm. Spaces are limited, so if you’re interested in taking part, contact Roger or Clair at haywards.heath.library@westsussex.gov.uk or call 01444 454607.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service News

MAKING A CLEAN SWEEP FOR SAFETY

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is reminding local householders to ensure their chimney is fire-safe while the weather is fine by booking a registered chimney sweep this Chimney Fire Safety Week (25th-30th July 2011).

With summer in full swing, the inviting warmth of an open fire is the last thing on peoples' minds, but it's best to check that your chimney is ship shape in the summer months when its not being used.

The peak season for the country's professional chimney sweeps is in fact drawing very near and with their diaries filling up fast West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has joined forces with the National Association of Chimney Sweeps and The Guild of Master Sweeps to urge householders to book their appointments now.

Community Fire Safety Officer Jackie Boyle explains: "An open fire is ideal for keeping warm in the winter, but without proper maintenance a chimney can be become dangerous. The latest statistics show that there are approximately 6,000 chimney fires a year in England and most of them are preventable.

To keep yourself and your family safe from fire you should take care to have your chimney swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn, before the colder winter months set in and you begin to use your fire and chimneys again. If the worst should happen a smoke alarm can give you the extra time you need to escape in a house fire - make sure you test yours regularly."

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service recommend that people follow our simple guidelines on Chimney Fire Safety to help reduce their chances of a fire;

• Have your chimney swept at least once a year, twice a year if burning wood.
• When burning wood, use dry, seasoned woods only.
• Build smaller, hotter fires that burn completely and produce less smoke.
• Never burn cardboard boxes or waste paper.
• NEVER use petrol or paraffin to light your fire.
• Do not overload the grate or appliance.
• Use a fire or spark guard to prevent accidental fires.
• Inspect your chimney breast, particularly in the roof space. Make sure that it is sound and that the sparks or fumes cannot escape through cracks or broken bricks.
• Ensure the fire is fully extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Make sure wood burners and other fire appliances are installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.
• Make sure your smoke alarm is working properly, early detection can save lives.

To find your local chimney sweep, contact the National Association of Chimney Sweeps on free phone 0800 833464 or www.nacs.org.uk

Fire safety advice is free and easy to access from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Community Safety Team on 01243 642878 or www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire

Albourne Village Show

ALBOURNE VILLAGE SHOW: 10th SEPTEMBER, 2011
1.00pm-4.30pm

This year the Albourne Village Show has now become a popular, regular event in the Village. The two grand marquees housing the exhibits will still be the focus of the show with more than 100 classes of flowers, fruit, veg, preserves, cakes, crafts and much more. There are several special classes for children including a painting class for under 5s.

Following the success of last year there will be a return of the fun dog show run by Allsorts Dog Rescue so don’t forget to bring along your pooch. There are classes for all shapes and sizes of dog and lots of rosettes to be taken home.

There will be a teas in the Village Hall, a barbecue, and a beer tent featuring local ales. In addition, several local organisations will be having stalls on the day and this year there will be a games tent primarily for children but all are welcome to fish for a duck, play your cards right or have a go at the hoopla - and more.

The ever popular craft tent will be a feature of the show where you will find several different types of craft stalls to see and buy and don’t forget the ever popular auction of produce at the end of the show.

Last year a star attraction was the apple pressing which will be repeated this year. Watch the apples crushed in the mill then pressed in the spindle press. Please bring along your surplus apples and for a small fee we will turn them into juice or donate your unwanted apples! We will be selling freshly pressed juice at the show as well as peserves, pure apple juice ice lollies, toffee apple and more.

As you can see, there will be lots to see and do so please come along and support us. Success depends on your participation. We also need your entries so get planning, planting and making without delay.

Remember – 1pm – 4.30pm, Saturday 4th September, at Albourne Village Hall and on the green. Entry fee: 50p per adult. Parking is available near to the hall.

FOR A COPY OF THE SHOW SCHEDULE, INCLUDING ALL CLASSES, RULES AND HINTS, PLEASE GO TO www.albourneparishcouncil.co.uk or PHONE 01273 834827 OR 01273 833978

As always, help is needed to organise the show. If you would like to help in any way at all, big or small, please contact Margaret Butler on 01273 834827. Don’t worry if you have never been involved in anything like this before, you will be very welcome. We are delighted that several local businesses have sponsored classes which has made the show possible. There are still opportunities for sponsorship. Please contact us if you are interested in this aspect of the show.

Sussex Living posted to your address!

If you live outside Mid Sussex you can subscribe to a posted copy each month to your address!

Go to www.sussexliving.com and look down the right hand side for the subscribe button.

Roger

Girls' Night Out!

Friday 29th July 2011
Girls Night Out! Pamper & Shopping Event
Parish Halls
East Grinstead
6.30pm - 9.30pm.

Manicures, Pedicures, Indian Head Massage, Facials, Reflexology, Psychic Readings, Jewellery, Cosmetics & more. Treatments from £10.00

You do not need to pre book just turn up on the day! £1.00 Entrance fee.
Contact 07717 311019 for more info.
All in support of St Catherine's Hospice.

Twinning concert at Burgess Hill

On the evening of Tuesday 26th July, The Sussex Harmonisers and Fleckenberger Sound Projekt will hold a joint concert to celebrate in song the 23rd anniversary of the twinning of their two home towns, Burgess Hill and Schmallenberg, in Germany.

The visiting chorus from Schmallenberg are in Sussex for several days and their trip will culminate with this evening concert, to be held at St Paul's Catholic College, Jane Murray Way, RH15 8GA.

Sussex Harmonisers Chairman Mick Bowles said that “it has been a terrific year so far. Our new Chorus Director Zoë Peate joined us just in time to lead us on the London stage, where we sang with the champion male quartet, and then in 2 appearances at the Brighton Fringe. She then directed us at the national convention of the British Association of Barbershop Singers where, out of 33 competing choruses we reached our best ever placing, 12th overall. Next year we'll be looking for a top ten place! And now we are very much looking forward to singing with our friends from Germany. While we are a male barbershop chorus, the Fleckenberger Sound Projekt are a mixed choir with a varied repertoire. Hopefully, while each chorus will sing its own material, we shall have time to practice something we can sing together!”

Full details of the concert, start time and ticketing arrangements will be found on our website - www.sussexharmonisers.org.uk

Start 7.30 p.m.
Tickets on the door are £7, or £6 in advance from graemefitz@talktalk.net

MSDC helps children’s plans take off as new playground opens

A seesaw, jungle climber, air rider, quad flyer, hover and cableway were among the exciting play choices of 8-12 year olds for their new playground in Lingfield Road, Windmill Lane, East Grinstead.

Last summer residents big and small got together to let Mid Sussex District Council know what they would like to see in their local playground. With the project now complete, the enlarged playground has a broader range of play equipment for younger children as well as the 8-12 year olds. Wooden sculptures form part of the design while careful landscaping and planting create an engaging and exciting space for all ages. Alongside the playground sits a newly constructed raised garden which is tended by local school children.

Officially opening the playground, Councillor Pru Moore Cabinet Member for Leisure and Sustainability, said, “Outdoor play brings so many benefits, to the health of the child and the vitality of the community – allowing families to mix and share experiences. This community really got involved in what they wanted to see, and I hope they enjoy this special place for many years to come.”

Steered along by residents and their consultation responses, the completed project has accounted for residents’ comments on many levels, including additional facilities for younger children, fencing around the play area and ample seating. The work was funded by a combination of development contributions and the Playbuilder funding scheme.

Lingfield Road Playground is the latest in a series of improved areas for outdoor play across the District – the last twelve months saw major schemes completed at Burners Close Playground in Burgess Hill, East Court Woodland Playground in East Grinstead and Haywards Heath Recreation Ground Playground.

Mid Sussex District Council is responsible for more than 120 equipped playgrounds and six skate parks in the District and the Council received a glowing report following a recent quality and safety inspection. The playground quality assessment attributed the majority of the District Council’s playground sites a score of 70-80%, high scores that reflect the excellent work carried out by Mid Sussex District Council.

The Council is currently consulting residents about their opinions on plans for Queens Crescent Playground in Burgess Hill, and will begin work in the autumn to create the residents’ favoured scheme for the renewed water feature at Victoria Park, Haywards Heath.

Rachel Hobbs, Ghana: Mangoes, Midnight dances and Malaria...

Screaming children surround me, all feverish and making nasty spluttering noises...and my child is one of them. We are at St Theresa’s Hospital in Nkoranza and three days ago Finnley was diagnosed with the notoriously deadly parasitic infection, malaria.

Finnley awoke on Sunday morning with a high temperature, diarrhoea and cough, Francis took me to the local hospital where a doctor was called in from home to see him, here in Ghana Sunday is a Christian holiday meaning nobody works. After a quick check over an infection suspected to be malaria was diagnosed and we were sent home with armfuls of syrup type medications. Today we saw two Dutch doctors whom were quick to dismiss the previous diagnosis but put Finnley’s fever down to a small infection that he was just as likely to catch in the UK; whatever it was he seems almost back to full health now, so we are very grateful to all that treated him.

Prior to the medical emergency, Finnley and I visited a monkey sanctuary about an hour away from the orphanage. All the children at Love Kids are so much fun and a pleasure to be around, however it is was nice to escape the chaos for a few hours. The monkeys were really friendly and Finnley even shared his biscuit with one of them. Monkeys are treated with as much respect as humans in the village of Boebeng-Fiema and even have funerals when they pass away.

Everything here is so physical, from walking around the sandy roads, to beating the fufu or washing clothes; along with the heat I am exhausted every evening. I have noticed that all young females and those with young children are very slender with defined arms, and those with older children are rather large; I was told this is because when a child gets to a certain age, it is their responsibility to take over the household chores and looking after any younger siblings, leaving the mother to sell produce at the market and not do anything practical. I spoke to Francis about health of these women and he told me that type two diabetes is on the increase, presumably because of the rise in overweight Ghanaians but also because of the increase of awareness of disease. I have tried lots of traditional food this week and it is all served in huge portions and very high in fat and sugar, this is because they may only be able to afford to eat one meal a day, so when they do they must eat a lot. Dinner for the children is often a large dough made from yams and cassava served with different soups; afterwards they are often extremely bloated and lethargic.

The weather has been torrential rain storms for the majority of the week, meaning the children are unable to go to school, this has meant Finnley and I have had the time to really get to know the children individually. One thing that I noticed whilst teaching them, is their lack of imagination, they struggle immensely with exercises such as ‘draw yourself in 10 years time’ as well as ‘write 10 things which make you smile”. It may be because they cannot think about life changing or it may be a lack of confidence, so we have done lots of singing and drama this week to try and boost their confidence; the girls especially loved it.

After football training on Tuesday evening, where I ended up coaching 30 Ghanian children football as the coach was unavailable, one boy came up and said ‘Thank you’ to me, this is the first time I have heard those words since I have been here and I was touched. We have the justify on Saturday and are expected at least 200 youth players. We have also been lucky enough to get a web designer from the UK on board to help and I am currently setting up some more links with international teams. My article for the international newspaper The Techniman Times, advertising the justify is published, making the community aware of LOVE KIDS ACADEMY. It is suspected there is such vast interest as there is a Westerner involved with the teams.

Some of the girls from the surrounding area and two of the older girls from the orphanage took me and Finnley to a dance on Friday. Outside the bar where a DJ was playing was hundreds of youths dancing and having fun. No alcohol was evident and I sat in the bar and watched it all going on. People kept coming in to see the ‘obrini’ (white woman), but I got no hassle what so ever; locals are just interested in seeing white people in their town.

This week has been traumatic but I am definitely adjusting to the culture and despite Finnley’s illness he keeps telling me he wants to stay here with friends; hopefully when the time comes to leave it will not be too hard to drag him away from what has been an eye opening and inspiring few weeks.
Rachel x

Key in to computer skills at Hurstpierpoint Library

Does the thought of ‘surfing the web’ scare you? Is the only mouse you know a little furry animal? If this sounds familiar, Hurstpierpoint Library (BN6 9UY) has the course for you.

West Sussex County Council’s Library Service has teamed up with Hurstpierpoint College to offer free computer training for beginners at the Library.

The weekly sessions, which start on Friday September 9, 1.30pm - 4.30pm, will see volunteer students from the college help train anyone who needs an introduction to computers, or to using the internet.

The students will be able to help people get started with using keyboards and develop mouse skills. They will also be able to work with users who have some experience, particularly with emails and using the internet.

County Council Deputy Leader, Lionel Barnard, who oversees the Library Service, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for students of Hurstpierpoint college to use their IT skills and knowledge to help learners access computers and the internet.”

To reserve your place, visit the Library or call 01273 832609. If you would like to discuss your training needs, contact Carol Tester on 01444 235549.

The Group - Sussex organisation for unattached people

For unattached people in Sussex there is no shortage of enjoyable things to do. It's just a matter of knowing where to find them. The Group, for people aged 45+, is not a dating agency; more a chance for people to make new friends.

The Group has club nights once a month in pubs in Haywards Heath, Brighton, Horsham and Worthing. Activities include theatre trips, walks, dinners, sport, dancing, gallery visits and holidays.

Co-founder John Williams explains “Once people have been along to a club night and become members of The Group, we email a diary to them twice a month and they just have to contact the organiser of the events they want to attend. The members themselves organise the events. That way we get really good variety in the things we do”.

More information can be obtained by phoning

01444 473852 for Haywards Heath
01273 736096 for Brighton
01903 247795 for Worthing
01293 516007 for Horsham.
email info@thegroup.org.uk

www.thegroup.org.uk

Mangoes, Midnight dances and Malaria...

Screaming children surround me, all feverish and making nasty spluttering noises...and my child is one of them. We are at St Theresa’s Hospital in Nkoranza and three days ago Finnley was diagnosed with the notoriously deadly parasitic infection, malaria.

Finnley awoke on Sunday morning with a high temperature, diarrhoea and cough, Francis took me to the local hospital where a doctor was called in from home to see him, here in Ghana Sunday is a Christian holiday meaning nobody works. After a quick check over an infection suspected to be malaria was diagnosed and we were sent home with armfuls of syrup type medications. Today we saw two Dutch doctors whom were quick to dismiss the previous diagnosis but put Finnley’s fever down to a small infection that he was just as likely to catch in the UK; whatever it was he seems almost back to full health now, so we are very grateful to all that treated him.

Prior to the medical emergency, Finnley and I visited a monkey sanctuary about an hour away from the orphanage. All the children at Love Kids are so much fun and a pleasure to be around, however it is was nice to escape the chaos for a few hours. The monkeys were really friendly and Finnley even shared his biscuit with one of them. Monkeys are treated with as much respect as humans in the village of Boebeng-Fiema and even have funerals when they pass away.

Everything here is so physical, from walking around the sandy roads, to beating the fufu or washing clothes; along with the heat I am exhausted every evening. I have noticed that all young females and those with young children are very slender with defined arms, and those with older children are rather large; I was told this is because when a child gets to a certain age, it is their responsibility to take over the household chores and looking after any younger siblings, leaving the mother to sell produce at the market and not do anything practical. I spoke to Francis about health of these women and he told me that type two diabetes is on the increase, presumably because of the rise in overweight Ghanaians but also because of the increase of awareness of disease. I have tried lots of traditional food this week and it is all served in huge portions and very high in fat and sugar, this is because they may only be able to afford to eat one meal a day, so when they do they must eat a lot. Dinner for the children is often a large dough made from yams and cassava served with different soups; afterwards they are often extremely bloated and lethargic.

The weather has been torrential rain storms for the majority of the week, meaning the children are unable to go to school, this has meant Finnley and I have had the time to really get to know the children individually. One thing that I noticed whilst teaching them, is their lack of imagination, they struggle immensely with exercises such as ‘draw yourself in 10 years time’ as well as ‘write 10 things which make you smile”. It may be because they cannot think about life changing or it may be a lack of confidence, so we have done lots of singing and drama this week to try and boost their confidence; the girls especially loved it.

After football training on Tuesday evening, where I ended up coaching 30 Ghanian children football as the coach was unavailable, one boy came up and said ‘Thank you’ to me, this is the first time I have heard those words since I have been here and I was touched. We have the justify on Saturday and are expected at least 200 youth players. We have also been lucky enough to get a web designer from the UK on board to help and I am currently setting up some more links with international teams. My article for the international newspaper The Techniman Times, advertising the justify is published, making the community aware of LOVE KIDS ACADEMY. It is suspected there is such vast interest as there is a Westerner involved with the teams.

Some of the girls from the surrounding area and two of the older girls from the orphanage took me and Finnley to a dance on Friday. Outside the bar where a DJ was playing was hundreds of youths dancing and having fun. No alcohol was evident and I sat in the bar and watched it all going on. People kept coming in to see the ‘obrini’ (white woman), but I got no hassle what so ever; locals are just interested in seeing white people in their town.

This week has been traumatic but I am definitely adjusting to the culture and despite Finnley’s illness he keeps telling me he wants to stay here with friends; hopefully when the time comes to leave it will not be too hard to drag him away from what has been an eye opening and inspiring few weeks.
Rachel x