bn5 magazine july 2014

We have all you need at Rushfields, to get outside and enjoy your garden this summer...

A fantastic range of solar lighting in stock.

Garden furniture to suit every style, and outside space.

Barbeque at home or on the move

All you need for your summer feast in our farm shop. Artisan chutneys and pickles

Award winning pies

Sussex cheeses

Large selection of cold and cured meats

Locally produced award winning wines…..

RUSHFIELDS PLANT CENTREHENFIELD ROAD, POYNINGS01273 857445 | www.rushfields.com

Pop along & meet us today.

4 | BN5 MAGAZINE The place to go for everything Henfield... www.bn5magazine.co.uk

• Accounts

• Self Assessment Tax Returns

• Corporation Tax Returns

• PAYE/CIS & Payroll

• Bookkeeping

• VAT

• Companies

• Sole Traders

• Individuals

[email protected]

Tel: 01273 491112Tel: 01273 495665

JULY 2014 | Contents

01273 494002 Need up to date info? www.bn5magazine.co.uk | 5

07 What’s onlistings

12 Newsfrom the BN5 area

22 Local interestSave the Scout Hut!

26 GardensSussex Prairies

52 Local interestStepping Out review

53 Local interestTwelfth Night

63 HealthHenfield Medical Centre

64 Businesswith Paul Samrah

66 Indexof advertisers

Many thanks to our editorial and photographic contributors this month;Paul Samrah, Jean Pierre and Joan Pirault, Fiona Ordidge and Mike Beardall.Cover photograph of Sussex Prairies by Mandy Shaw.BN5 magazine is printed by Evonprint in Small Dole on 100% FSC approved managed forests paper and is printed using vegetable-based inks.

Editor’s LETTER

Copy DeadlineCopy deadline for any advertisement or editorial submission for the August issue of BN5 magazine is Friday 4 July. For editorial submissions email Emma Osman [email protected] or just call us for a chat on 01273 494002. You can catch up with the latest news and events at www.bn5magazine.co.uk

52

53

Welcome to our July issue of BN5 magazine.

You may have already heard that Henfield Scout Group are under threat - their hut is literally falling down around their ears and within a short period they will be homeless. Plans for a new hut are in process but it can’t be done without your help. Please support this crucial project for our village - see more on page 22, Scouting means so much to local children and it would be a tragedy to see it end in Henfield, the oldest Scout group in the country.

The village may well see even more major changes after the West End Lane planning approval, in the form of the proposed Mayfield development. This is a town the size of Burgess Hill (10,000 homes, yes - 10,000!) with the outskirts hitting the edge of Henfield.

We will endeavour to bring you as much information as possible but please see our website www.bn5magazine.co.uk or our Facebook site for the most immediate news. The plans will be submitted imminently, you can see their outline proposals on the Mayfield Market Towns website. We will continue to report on this issue so that local people can have a balanced discussion rather than have a sprawling development imposed upon without a proper debate.

Enjoy July and our beautiful countryside.

22

26

12

JULY 2014 | What’s on

01273 494002 For even more events listings go to www.bn5magazine.co.uk | 7

Henfield VoicesHenfield Hall, 7.30-9pm (and every Weds)Enjoy an evening of laughter, fun and singing. New members are always welcome, no audition. For more information call Monica on 07788 166173 or email [email protected]

Thursday 3Rhyme TimeHenfield Library, 10.15-10.45am (& every Thurs)Free-fun with music for pre-school-ers.

Circle Dancing Henfield Leisure Centre, 10.40am-12.10pm (& every Thurs)£5 (concessions available) with tea/coffee included. For more informa-tion call Brenda Kelly on 01273 842405.

Over 60’s Tai ChiMaidment Court, 11am-12pm (& every Thurs)For more details about the Tai Chi contact Ian Kendall on 07900 193230 or [email protected]

Henfield UnattachedWhite Hart, 11am (every 1st Thurs)A meeting point for those who are now alone, and need to get out and widen their horizons. There’s no fuss, no joining fee, no subscrip-tion. Call 01273 495820 or drop in at our regular coffee morning at the White Hart.

Play and Learn Together Evangelical Free Church, 11-12.30pm (& every Thurs)A friendly and fun group where you can play with your child and help them to learn. Activities are designed for the whole age range from babies to rising 5. No charge for the group and everyone is wel-come. Contact the Children and Family Centre on 01403 864668 for more information.

Making Beaded JewellerySussex Prairies£30. Making techniques in a small, friendly class. No experience re-quired. We aim to make two items of jewellery. Materials and use of tools provided. Tea and cake avail-able. See www.sussexprairies.co.uk for further details.

Know Dementia Henfield Medical Centre, 1.30-

3.30pm (& every first Thurs)Drop-in for a chat.

Thursday Circle2.30pmSummer Outing to a well-known local Garden Centre for a browse round and refreshments. We will leave the Free Church at 2.30pm prompt. If you plan to come and require transport, please let Peggy know on 493472.

Friday 4SGS Summer Musical - ‘Loserville ‘Steyning Grammar School (and until 6th)Tickets (£10 and £6) from the school offices or Steyning Book-shop.

Saturday 5Stars & Stripes Garden PartySaffrons, Holland Road, Steyning, 1pm In aid of Arthritis Research UK. If you wish to become a member of Arthritis Research UK (Annual sub-scription £5) or join our Organising Committee for which we desper-ately need new members please contact Angela Baker on 01903 814006.

Brighton Welsh Male Voice ChoirHenfield Hall, 7.30pmBeautiful music combined with delightful harmonies, memorable songs plus a varied programme. In aid of Macmillan Nurses. Tickets (£10) in advance from Jasmines Florist or call 01273 491936

Monday 7Partridge Green Toddlers PG Methodist Church, High Street, 10-11.30am (& every Mon term time)Warm, friendly environment, come for a cuppa and a play! For chil-dren 0-5 years. £2 per family. For more information call Jo on 07926844964 or see our Facebook page.

Henfield Badminton ClubHenfield Hall, 7.30-9.30pm (& every Mon)New members always welcome. We play a reasonable standard of badminton but are very patient with rusty players who may not have

Tuesday 1 JulyFree TennisHenfield Tennis Club, 9am-9pmSubject to availability, during Wim-bledon Fortnight, come and play at the Tennis Club at no cost.

ChatterboxFree Church Hall, 9.30-11.30am (& every Tues)Come and have fun! We welcome new mums. Still £1.50 which in-cludes all refreshments. We are closing for month of August, re-opening 2 September.

HDC Health WalkSteyning, 11am (&15 July)2 mile stroll, meet at Steyning Health Centre. Call Linda on 01903 816865 or Lyn on 01903 369752

Knit & NatterHenfield Library, 2-4pm (& every 1st Tues)A drop-in craft group for adults.

Action for Deafness Henfield Hall, 2pm (& every 1st Tues)Hearing aid maintenance clinic and information, advice and support on all aspects of hearing loss.

Tai ChiMaidment Court, 2-3pm (& every Tues)For more details about the Tai Chi contact Ian Kendall on 07900 193230 or [email protected]

Wednesday 2Henfield Computer ClubHenfield Leisure Centre, 12.45-2.45pm (& every Weds)A friendly club helping you to get to grips with the basics of computers and tablets. All welcome, improve your skills and get online! Cost £1, contact Alison Vine on 01273 492620.

Jolesfield Community ChoirJolesfield School, 7pm (& every Weds term time)Open to all. Call Elizabeth Carey on 07880 551 751 for more informa-tion or email [email protected]

Henfield Lions ClubGeorge Hotel, Henfield High Street, 7.30pm (& every 1st Weds)Meet to discuss fundraising ac-tivities, consider requests for assis-tance and organise social events. Call David Pryor on 01273 494442.

What’s on | JULY 2014

8 | BN5 MAGAZINE For even more events listings go to www.bn5magazine.co.uk

picked up their racquet for some time! Call Sally on 01273 494231.

Steyning & District U3A cream teaSaxon Room, Steyning Centre, 3pmSee news for more information.

Tuesday 8Henfield History GroupFree Church Hall, 8pmWomen of the Raj – the story of the courageous and determined women of British India from 1800 to 1947 presented by Mark Perry Nash. Everyone welcome. £3 non-members (members by subscrip-tion). Call Maureen Fletcher on 10273 492194 for more informa-tion.

Woodmancote Parish Council MeetingParish Hall, Woodmancote, 7.30pm (& every 2nd Tues)Email [email protected] for information.

Pub QuizWhite Hart, 8.30pm (& 22nd)Entry £2 a head. In aid of HART. Teams up to six. Cash prize for win-ners. Call 01273 492006 to reserve table.

Wednesday 9London Coach Trip Leaving Henfield at 8.45amTickets available so if you would like to join us for a day out in London please ring Gill on 07713161343 to book. As usual the coach will leave Henfield Post Office Bus Stop at 8.45am and leave London from the Waldorf Hotel, Aldwych at 6.15pm. Tickets £15.

Knit & NatterThe Lounge, Rayner Court, 10.30am-12pm (& every 2nd Weds)We knit gift items and children’s clothes for various charities. There is something for everyone to knit whatever their ability or interest. For more information or to do-nate wool, contact Jean on 01273 493171.

Thursday 10Coffee MorningSt Peter’s Church, 10.30-11.30am (& every 2nd Thurs)Join us in St Peters Church for fresh coffee and homemade cakes.

Jazzled Choir Catholic Church Hall, 1.30-3.30pm (every 2nd & 4th Thurs)A jazz, swing and blues choir, made up of members of the community who may have a medical condi-tion or not (it doesn’t really matter), no need to read music! £4 entry plus tea and biscuits. Call Jennie on 01273 494300 or email [email protected]

Friday 11Henfield Camera ClubFree Church, 7.30pm (& every other week)See www.henfieldcameralclub.org.uk for more information.

Saturday 12Henfield Tennis Club Open DayKings FieldJoin in the fun with a healthy game of tennis. Bring the family. There will also be a bouncy castle. Spe-cial offer 25% discount for mem-bership for rest of this tennis year (also applies on Sunday 13th). Re-freshments available. Call Henfield Leisure Centre on 01273 494984.

Spinning & Dyeing ClassSussex PrairiesSee www.sussexprairies.co.uk for further details.

HDC Health WalkWiston/Steyning, 9amDownland Dog Walk, 2 miles, 1¼ hours. Park in one of the Steyning car parks if possible; there is only very limited parking at the cricket pavilion, especially on a Saturday. Call Sally on 07720 850064

Henfield Friends of St Barnabas sunflower collectionHenfield High Street & Swains, 9am-1pmWe look forward to your support. During this month also look out for the St. Barnabas Bus in Budgen’s Car Park. It is well worth a visit.

NGS Open GardenMoustows Manor, 2-5pm (& Sun 13)Parking at Henfield Hall or Library Car Park. Admission £4, children free. 1-acre newly designed garden which beautifully compliments the Georgian House. Refreshments available in Henfield High Street.

Big Brownie Birthday PartyHenfield guide Hut, Staples Barn

The Brownie Guide Movement is 100 years old this year and Hen-field District is having a Big Brown-ie Birthday Party. Anyone who has been a Brownie or leader in one of the Henfield Packs is invited, we’d really love to see you there! See news item for more information.

Monday 14Steyning Decorative and Fine Arts The Steyning Centre, 10amIllustrated lecture from Martin Heard on ‘Toulouse Lautrec and Bohemian Paris’. Members and visitors (donation of £5) are warmly welcomed. Call 01903 368254 or 01903 816190 for more informa-tion.

Tuesday 15HDC Health WalkThe White Horse, Maplehurst, 10amTowards Cowfold, 5½ miles, some stiles, no dogs. Meet in the pub car park. Call Geoff on 01403 258180.

Trefoil GuildHenfield Guide Hut (every 3rd Tues)Open to anyone over the age of 18 who is willing to support our aims. Come and join us! For more infor-mation call Mary on 01273 492351 or Jane on 01403 710061.

Thursday 17HDC Health WalkAshurst, 2pmMeet in The Fountain pub car park (BN44 3AP), 6 miles, 3 hours. Call Ron on 01403 265925.

New Vicar inductionSt Peter’s ChurchThe Induction of The Reverend Paul Doick as Vicar of Henfield and Rector of Shermanbury and Wood-mancote. The service will be con-ducted by the Bishop of Horsham, the Right Reverend Mark Sowerby. All are welcome to attend.

Saturday 19Give Nature a Home & Blackfoot LodgeSussex PrairiesSee article for more information.

Tuesday 22Small Dole Tuesday ClubSmall Dole Village Hall, 7.30pmAbout Bread. Speaker Roger Chamberlain.

JULY 2014 | What’s on

01273 494002 For even more events listings go to www.bn5magazine.co.uk | 9

Wednesday 23HDC Health WalkWest Grinstead, 11am5 miles, flat, no dogs, Park and meet at St George’s Parish Church, Steyning Road (RH13 8LR). Call Jean on 01403 250869.

Thursday 24Afternoon tea tripWyvale Garden Centre & CaféHenfield Community Transport col-lect you from home and take you back to your door. Cost £6. Call 01444 471919 to book.

Saturday 26HDC Health WalkCelebration Horsham Riverside Walk, 9.30am13 miles. To register to participate in the walk please contact [email protected] or ring mobile 07780 701184. Transport from the different stops, back to the Rugby Club, will be arranged. Register at Rugby Club, Hammerpond Road at 9.30am for a 10am prompt start.

Sunday 27

Fulking FairDownside Meadow, Poynings Road, 12-5pm. A traditional summer fair with: BBQ; bar; cream teas; craft dem-onstrations; pony rides; owls; dog show; live music; plenty of activi-ties for the children; puppet show; gladiators; stalls; and free parking. For more information please visit www.fulking.net/fulking-fair/

Beads and BanglesSussex Prairies, 1-4pm£30. Make pretty felted beads and bangles. No experience required and all materials are supplied. See www.sussexprairies.co.uk for de-tails.

Tuesday 29Free NHS Community Health CheckThe Dingemans Centre, SteyningTo book appointment call 01273 268900. You are eligible if you are 40 – 74 years old, and have not had an NHS Health Check within the last five years.

Wednesday 30

ExcursionPulborough Brooks RSPB Wildlife CentreHenfield Community Transport col-lect you from home and take you back to your door. Cost £9. Call 01444 471919 to book.

Twelfth Night Red Oaks garden (until 2 August)Henfield Theatre Company perfor-mance - see article for more infor-mation.

Thursday 314SightDay Centre, Henfield, 10.30am-12pm (& every last Thurs)Opportunity for those with sight impairments to meet and socialise with others suffering from sight problems. Occasional speakers, games, quizzes. Call 01273 454343 [email protected]

Afternoon tea tripShoreham Airport Art Deco CafeHenfield Community Transport col-lect you from home and take you back to your door. Cost £6. Call 01444 471919 to book.


taste... deli

01273 495551high street | henfield west sussex | bn5 9dd

[email protected]

Fresh sandwiches made to orderOrganic and fair-trade teas and coffeesDelicious cakes (including gluten free)Outside catering available

Deli open:Monday to Saturday 8:00am -5:00pmSundays for breakfast 9:00am - 12 noon!

Fully licensedFree wifi

NESTLED AT THE FOOT OF THE SOUTH DOWNSIN EDBURTON, SPRINGS SMOKED SALMON

IS A TREASURE TROVE OF WONDERFULFISH & TEMPTING DELICACIES. SPRINGS IS

CERTAINLY NOT JUST ABOUT SALMON!

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you.

Opening: Monday - Friday: 8.30am-5pmSaturday: 8am - 12 noon

www.springsmokedsalmon.co.ukEdburton, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9LN

01273 857338

TO BOOK OR TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY PLEASE CALL 01273 492280we are always happy to help

News • Events • Menu’s • ‘Like’ /ploughhenfield.co.ukwww.ploughhenfield.co.uk

THE FRIENDLY PLOUGH INN

The

SERVING BREAKFAST AT WEEKENDS 10 TIL 12

COME & ENJOY OURLOVELY COURTYARDGARDEN

NOW SERVING OUR NEW GOUrMET BURGER MENU

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 11

The lovely Busy Bees Playgroup will be closing its doors very soon, and they’d like to say an enormous THANK YOU to all their past

pupils, parents and supporters over the last 50 plus years!The playgroup, based at Henfield Youth Club, has running since the 1960’s and has been a registered charity for the last 20 years. They welcomed children at the old Youth Club building in Nep Town Road before moving to the modern new Youth Club on the King’s Field back in 2004. Val Bentley, current treasurer of the charity, said; “We are so disappointed to be closing our doors. Busy Bees has enjoyed having lots of local pre-school children at the playgroup over the years, we’ve seen them grow and flourish and enjoyed

preparing them for their primary school lives ahead. It’s been a wonderful privilege and we have some very happy memories. We’ve seen new generations of the same family which is always a pleasure, as well as welcomed new families who have moved to the village.”Val started helping out in 1992 when her children began their nursery education at Busy Bees. In 1999 she became co-Manager with Cathy Souter and Tricia Manuell, then Gillian Otsuka was appointed as sole Manager in 2011. Gillian commented; “We have had a wonderful time with the children, we will really miss everyone and it’s with great sadness that we’re going. The staff here are would like to thank all

the parents for their kindness and support.”Chairman Agnieszka Kwiatkowska said, on behalf of all the parents; “I was always impressed by the individual child approach; every child felt unique and every family was listened to. The positive learning through play that Busy Bees provided meant that every child’s interests were explored, from building up role play activities to parents bringing in their own skills to share. Looking at my children’s journals I am very sad that such lively, arty playgroup has to close because of low numbers. A big Thank You to all the ladies who work at Busy Bees, for being like second mothers

to our children.”The playgroup has suffered from falling numbers recently and sadly doesn’t have quite enough children booked for September intake to continue. Reluctantly, the volunteers on the Committee decided with great regret that it was not financially possible to continue.Henfield will miss this sunny, happy little playgroup where playing, friendship and enjoyable learning is the order of the day.

To contact Busy Bees please call 01273 495768.

GOODBYE FROM BUSY BEES, & THANK YOU FOR THE FUN!

News | JULY 2014

12 | BN5 MAGAZINE To keep REALLY up to date... www.bn5magazine.co.uk

WORLD CUP FEVER RAISES £1,495 FOR ST BARNABAS St Barnabas representative Neil Francis was on hand to join in the celebrations as locals of the Plough in Henfield raised a fantastic £1,495 for the hospice dur-ing their World Cup Sweepstake draw in June. The draw, with part of the proceeds going to the Hospice, was organised by Graham Slade in thanks for their support of local families who benefit from the Hos-pice’s wonderful care.The Plough was standing room only as Graham, ably assisted by Steve Law, led a rousing rendition of ‘Three Lions’ followed by the nail biting draw of the teams by the 32 participants. Olivia Pugh from Hamfelds did a sterling job of handing round the cer-emonial World Cup Coal Scuttle. Local celebrity Paul Samrah finished the evening with an auction of (very authentic) World Cup memorabilia, including a won-derful impressionistic painting of the changing rooms in Maracana after the last whistle is blown, a 3/4 full

bottle of Glenfiddich whiskey signed by Gazza, a commemorative football signed by Bobby Moore, the actual boots worn by Ronaldo himself, and two week-ends in Marrakech. The auction raised over £1,000.Neil commented; “This figure is enough to pay for our new Hospice at Home night time service for 5 eve-nings which really is an incredible achievement and make a huge difference to local people. All of our services remain 100% free to patients and families and this is only down to the hard work dedication and support of our local community and events like last night. Thank you and good luck to you all in the sweepstake!”

THANK YOU FROM ARCArthritis Research UK Henfield Branch would like to thank everyone involved in their Ploughman’s Lunch at the end of May. The work of the organisers and helpers, along with the loyal support of the people of Henfield, Partridge Green and Small Dole ensured the success of this event which raised £591. We look for-ward to welcoming all to our Turkey and Tipple on 20 November 2014.Maureen Dexter

NEW VICAR AND RECTORThe induction of the Reverend Paul Doick as Vicar of Henfield and Rector of Shermanbury and Woodma-ncote will take place on Thursday 17 July at 7.30pm at St Peters in Henfield. The service will be conducted by the Bishop of Horsham, the Right Reverend Mark Sowerby. All are welcome to attend.

FREE TENNIS!Henfield Tennis Club is offering free use of their courts for all everyone during Wimbledon Fortnight up until Sunday 5 July. Just contact Henfield Leisure Centre on 01273 494984 and book a court and there will be no charge during this period. Then why not come along to the Open Day on Saturday 12 July to try out some new tennis rackets, have a chat with our coaches and enjoy some burgers, hot dogs, straw-berries and ice-cream. There will be a bouncy castle, lots of opportunity to ‘have a go’, try out cardio-ten-nis, watch a junior exhibition match and a HTC Club Championship Match. You will also be able to join the club with a 25% discount for the rest of the tennis year and this offer is open on Sunday 13 July as well in case you can’t get along on the Saturday.Liz Brindley

At Blackstone near Henfield

Special Offer 10% off Clarins Facials in July

Call Louise or visit the website

for a full list of treatments

01273 494202 07711 927215www.blackstonebeautyroom.co.uk

25 years in the beauty industry

The Beauty Room

JULY 2014 | News

01273 494002 See our new website! www.bn5magazine.co.uk | 13

SAMMY STARS IN ‘THE SUMMER BOOK’Local actress Sammy Foster has recently starred in an adaptation of ‘The Summer Book’ by Tove Jansson at the Unicorn Theatre in London alongside Olivier-Award winner Sara Kestelman. Sammy played the role of Sophia which The Stage described as a “sweetly and convincingly portrayed”. The British Theatre Guide described Sammy as “a very accom-plished young actress”. Sammy’s previous stage and screen work includes Billy Elliot West End, a TV series due out in late 2014 and TV commercials for house-hold brands such as Morphy Richards, Marmite and Hasbro.

YOUTH CLUB NEWSHenfield Youth Club offer a range of services includ-ing CV writing, job searches, health and wellbeing as well as a fun place to meet your friends, use the in-ternet, play pool, do cooking and craft etc. For older teenagers we also offer sexual health services and support including C card (condom distribution) and chlamydia testing, as well as being there for advice and support and signposting where necessary. We meet on a Monday and a Thursday for 11- 19 year olds (7.30pm – 9.30pm) and on a Tuesday for 8 - 11 year olds (6pm – 7.30pm). The sessions may vary af-ter September as we are looking to offer an intermedi-ate age group (school years 6, 7 and 8).Debbie Slaughter

KAYLEE’S CAKERY - STILL BAKING BEAUTIFUL CAKES!There are some changes afoot for Kaylees Cakery, and although the doors of the coffee shop in Coo-per’s Way are now closed, it’s very much ‘business as usual’ for cupcakes and decorated cakes!As her customers will probably have noticed, Kay-leigh Peters, owner of Kaylee’s Cakery, is expecting a new little ‘cupcake’ to arrive soon, with her third child expected in August. We wish her lots of good luck with this important delivery!Kaylee’s will continue to run as normal and you can make your cake orders through the website www.kayleescakery.co.uk or by calling 01273 965339.

All the cakes are lovingly baked and decorated in Henfield, as always. Kaylee’s books are now full for July and August because of the busy wedding season.Kayleigh would like to thank her customers for their business and support, please do keep in touch through her Facebook site.

LOOKING FOR A VENUE?With central heating, audio-visual facilities, kitchen and plenty of parking, the Eric Holder Pavilion at The Kings Field (having recently been spruced up) is an ideal venue for parties, meetings etc. Please contact [email protected] for further details.

NATURE TOTS EXPLOSION!A pre-school experience with a difference! Encourage your little ones out of doors this summer with Sus-sex Wildlife Trust’s fun weekly activity sessions – Na-ture Tots. These parent and child groups are proving enormously successful and a second day has opened in Henfield at Woods Mill nature reserve. Suitable for three to five year olds (all children must be ac-companied by an adult) the Trust’s qualified staff will lead the tots in exploring woodland, stories, games, woodcraft activities, and toasting snacks around a fire circle. On-line booking for July is essential. For fur-ther information on days, locations and costs please visit: www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/naturetots or call 01273 492630.

For Hire

01273 491383Molly the Camper van is for hire.

Camping, Festivals & Special [email protected]

Art Classes By Lyn Bedford-WhiteSummer Six Week Taster Courses Starting in July 2014

Pen & Wash – Tuesday mornings – HenfieldOil/Acrylics – Friday mornings – Upper Beeding• Courses are suitable for beginners • Small friendly classes• £65 for the courseFor further details, and booking, please contact: Lyn Bedford-White Tel: 01903 813058www.bedford-white-art.co.uk email: [email protected]

News | JULY 2014


WEST END LANE DEVELOPMENTAs I’m sure you are all aware, the Planning Inspector has published his decision and is allowing the pro-posed development of 160 houses by Barratts, on the land north of West End Lane. We, at Hands Off Henfield are bitterly disappointed, as I’m sure many of you are as well. The main thrust of our campaign was that we did not believe a development of this type was sustainable. We did our best to highlight all the issues during the appeal process, but sadly two key factors changed from the initial planning application hearing. Barratts clearly saw the kennels as being a major stumbling block due to noise, hence making the offer to buy the piece of land the kennels sits on. HDC were commis-sioning a noise assessment, but obviously cancelled this after learning of Barratts intentions for the ken-nels. It will be very sad indeed to see the kennels, part of our local economy, an employer and success-ful family run business being forced to close in order to make way for the development. It would be totally unreasonable to expect the kennels to continue to function alongside the new development, therefore placing the owners in a ‘no win’ situation.We also feel badly let down by West Sussex County Council Highways, who don’t seem to think there is a problem with the roads, parking and number of ve-hicles in the village at the moment. Therefore, they raised no objection at the public enquiry. The Inspec-tors report makes scant mention of our case, which seems to fly in the face of the Government’s vision of ‘Localism’ in planning matters. Until the Neigh-

bourhood and District Plans are in place, we, as a village are extremely vulnerable to over development. The same old tired excuse of HDC not being able to demonstrate a five year land housing supply seriously effects any objections to mass development. This is despite HDC already granting planning permission for over 7,000 new dwellings within the district and sug-gesting that they would support further development in north Horsham.We support and want to see sustainable growth of our village. Development that will actually benefit those who want starter, shared ownership and sheltered types of housing. Large scale developments do not reflect local needs and they are not seen as financially viable or profitable for the developers. Every day we hear in the news that there is a massive housing crisis in the UK. When is someone going to take responsi-bility for ensuring the types of houses built actually reflect the need of that respective community? Not just ‘identikit’ developments, where as many houses as possible are squeezed onto a plot of land.We now face three potential developments in the vil-lage which will produce in excess of 330 additional dwellings. We are already seeing the knock on effects of not having sufficient infrastructure to cope. I know there are a number of families in Henfield who have been unsuccessful in obtaining a place for their child at St Peters School this coming September. The local education authority did not ask for any Section 106 money from Barratts to improve primary school plac-es in the village, only for senior school places within the district. Steyning Grammar School is already over-subscribed. There will be no Section 106 money forthcoming once the land east of Manor Close is de-veloped, so where is the money going to come from to improve the infrastructure for the future need?I want to thank everyone who has assisted HOH over the last 18 months. No matter how great or small, your help was greatly appreciated. Hands Off Henfield will hold their AGM on Tuesday 22 July at a time and loca-tion to be confirmed. We will email our supporters, up-date Facebook and the website to confirm the details. We shall seek to elect the members for the committee and discuss other issues at this event. Simon Andrews, Chair, Hands Off Henfield.

HENFIELD CLUB & ARTThe Club was pleased to have participated in Gardens and Art weekend by making its newly refurbished multi-function room available to exhibit Art works. The

Barbara DicksonBEAUTY THERAPIST

for all your beauty needs with 30 years’ experience

Now in Fawn Rise – Henfield(formally The Beauty Room Steyning)

01273 493405Decleor Facials

Traditional pedicures & manicuresWaxing & Electrolysis

Eyelash tinting & shapingEar piercing

Stockists of Decleor, Jessica nail and Australian Tea Tree products.

JULY 2014 | News


Club are keen to keep this light and airy room look-ing good by providing local artists the opportunity to show their Art on a rotational basis. For details please contact Kenneth McIntosh on 01273 965243.Kenneth McIntosh

WILD WOODIES - CHILDREN’S SUMMER HOLIDAY CLUBSSussex Wildlife Trust is running a fun-packed outdoor activity programme for children throughout the sum-mer holi- days. There’s something

for everyone including: bug hunting, pond dipping, shelter building, crafts, camouflage games and toasting marshmallows over the camp fire. Clubs are at Woods Mill Nature Reserve near Henfield; Stanmer Park, Brighton; Seven Sisters Country Park near Seaford and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Children do not need to be accompanied by an adult as the clubs are fully su-

pervised, so why not enjoy a well-earned rest while they have the time of their lives out in the fresh air! Booking is essential, for further information on timing, ages and prices please visit: www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/events or call 01273 497561.

HENFIELD FC YOUTH TOURNAMENTFor the second successive year we recently held a Youth Football Tournament on The Kings Field. The tournament, for Under 7s through to Under 16s, at-tracted entries from across Sussex and beyond – and was held over the weekend of Saturday 17 - Sunday 18 May. Once again, it was a huge success with over 136 squads taking part. Estimates are that Henfield welcomed at least 1,500 visitors over the week-end. Thanks go to all the volunteers that helped out: stew-arding, refereeing, selling programmes, marking out the pitches and all things besides. Without you, there would be no tournament. The highly commended 40 page full colour pro-gramme featured over 20 local advertisers, not forget-ting that many businesses provided raffle prizes and of course sponsor our teams throughout the season – a big thank you to them. These local owner-managed

businesses deserve our patronage.Congratulations to coach Darren Angood, who saw all three of his Henfield teams reach their respec-tive finals. Both the U14s & the U16s won and were crowned 2014 Henfield FC Tournament Winners, with the U11s only losing with the very last kick of their final match. Henfield’s U15s, under Simon Andrews’ guidance, were worthy winners in the final of their age group as well. So all in all Henfield FC tournament football is in pretty rude health! As a Charter status club we invest heavily in both training courses and CRB checks for those involved with coaching. Evening winter training necessitates floodlight use and although we are very lucky to have an excellent floodlit pitch at The Rothery, this does become over-used and the pitch quickly deteriorates over the season. We have improved the pitch area near the limited floodlight facility at The Kings Field for the younger age groups and we continue to look at ways of relieving the load on The Rothery. I guess it’s a good problem to have! A multi-purpose all-weather floodlit facility is something that Henfield as a village should aim for and the Club is looking to start discus-sions with interested parties over the coming year. Looking to play? Our youth teams either play in the Saturday morning Horsham & District Youth Football League or the Sunday morning Mid-Sussex Youth and Minor Football League. Adults play on Saturday/Sun-day afternoons. We are always looking for new play-ers (U7s through to U16s as well as men’s and ladies) and for people to join the committee – please contact [email protected] for further details.Paul Samrah, Chair, Henfield FC

Photograph courtesy Juthy Slaughter

News | JULY 2014


SCHOOL EQUIPMENT FROM COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP St Peter’s School has added a listening centre and bike storage shed to its facilities thanks to Henfield Community Partnership and Knight’s Budgens. Part-nership vice-chairman Neville de Moraes handed over a cheque for £700 to school PTA treasurer Sue Powell last month. The money came from advertising pay-ments on a community noticeboard in Budgens in-stalled by the HCP. PTA Chairman Richard Lucy and Knight’s Budgens Assistant Manager Jenny Allaston were at the pre-sentation on Wednesday with HCP noticeboard or-ganiser Bill Shelton. Headteacher Nick Phillips said: “This equipment and the funds donated show what a close relationship the school has with the village and the wider community. We are incredibly grateful for the support we get and for the close links we have with local organisations.” The listening centre enables children to listen to CDs and story tapes to help with their reading. And the new bike storage shed houses six school bikes used to teach reception children bike skills, co-ordination and safety within the school grounds. Mike Beardall

FANCY A GAME OF CRICKET?Henfield Cricket Club is looking to recruit eager young cricketers from Years 4, 5 and 6 to join their U10 and U11 teams. All abilities welcome and weekly training is held every Thursday at 5.30pm on Henfield Com-

mon. Matches are held on Saturday (U10) and Sun-day (U11) against local sides. Please contact Ben Helps on 07958 652 105 for more information.

DOWNSLINK RESURFACEDThe section of the Downs Link that goes through the field between Henfield and Partridge Green was re-surfaced during June 2014. This work was arranged and paid for by West Sussex County Council’s Coun-tryside Service. We would like to thank everyone who wrote in with comments about the field earlier in the year. Hopefully many more people will use the Downs Link especially from the connecting villages.Geraldine Fewster

MYTHICAL MAZE SUMMER READ-ING CHALLENGE 2014There’s a magical adventure waiting for children when they take part in the 2014 Summer Reading Chal-lenge. They can join our adventurers as they explore the labyrinth that introduces them to fantastical crea-tures from the world of legend and mythology simply by reading six books from the library. They can dis-cover the secrets of Mythical Maze and meet some of the fantastical creatures – from a Nessie to a Minotaur and all sorts in between!To take part families need to visit their local library from Saturday 12 July to sign-up for free; if you’re not already library members you can join at the same time and this is free too! Children will be challenged to make three visits to the library during the summer and collect different ‘scratch and sniff’ stickers and other rewards. Children who complete all three visits by Saturday 13 September will be awarded a certificate and medal. To keep children keen over the summer libraries will be offering a programme of exciting free Mythical Maze events.Libraries are also asking for 14-25 year-olds to vol-unteer and help run the Mythical Maze challenge in a library near them. Volunteers will be offered full train-ing and can gain new skills including communication, team work and experience of working with families. For more information about Mythical Maze visit your local library or click on www.westsussex.gov.uk/read-ingchallenge.

FULKING FAIRThe Fulking Fair will be held on Sunday 27 July 2014 at Downside Meadow, Poynings Road in Fulking from 12 to 5pm. A traditional summer fair the event will include: BBQ; bar; cream teas; craft demonstra-tions; pony rides; owls; dog show; live music; plenty of activities for the children; puppet show; gladiators; stalls; and free parking. For more information please visit www.fulking.net/fulking-fair/

ONLINE PETITION AGAINST MAY-FIELD MARKET TOWNSAn online petition directed at David Cameron, Jeremy Heywood and the Lords Standards Commissioner has been posted entitled: ‘Stop two Lords from build-ing 10,000 houses on rural Sussex land.’ Hosted on the website 38 Degrees, the petition aims to stop the proposed Mayfield Market Town development. To view the petition go to https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-two-lords-from-building-10-000-hous-es-on-rural-sussex-land

Photograph courtesy Mike Beardall, Oakfield Media

JULY 2014 | News


CONGRATULATIONS PAMELA!Henfield Editor Pamela Chaston received a national commendation award on Saturday for the village’s parish magazine. The award, for ‘Appealing to a Wider Community’, was given by The Association of Church Editors. It was presented by Major Stephen Poxon, former editor of The Salvationist, at Westminster Cen-tral Hall. Pamela said: “This award reflects the work of the magazine team and contributors – and the efforts of all those who have worked on the magazine over the last 127 years. We try hard to broaden our appeal to a widening readership.” The parish magazine covers the churches of Henfield, Shermanbury and Woodma-ncote and was founded in 1887.Mike Beardall

FIRST WORLD WAR COMMEMORATION“The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our life-time” is a quote attrib-uted to British statesman and Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey on the eve of the First World War. The Parish Council, the village Churches, the Royal British Legion and the Henfield Club are organising a brief ceremony to commemorate the start of the First World War on 4 August. After services at the churches there will be a ceremony at the war memorial at the end of Cagefoot Lane at 10pm which will involve the extinguishing of lights for 10 minutes. Pubs, clubs, shops and households are invited to take part. For more information see the August edi-tion of BN5 magazine or contact Digby Stephenson on 07815 049609, email [email protected]

STEYNING & DISTRICT U3ACome and join us for a delicious afternoon tea of home-made scones, clotted cream and strawberry jam on Monday 7 July at 3pm in the Saxon Room of the Steyning centre and enjoy our annual social occasion where you can meet fellow members and introduce your friends to the U3A. This will be our first social meeting following the AGM and at only £1 for members and £2.50 for guests is another bargain event in our calendar!If you’re not a member and would like to know more about us come along to meet us and join on the day. Steyning & District U3A provides opportunities for educational, creative and leisure activities in a friendly and informal environment. We are part of a national organisation of local U3A groups which are run entire-ly by volunteers. The Steyning & District U3A, which includes Henfield, Storrington and other villages in the neighbourhood, now has almost 400 members and over 40 groups covering a wide variety of inter-ests and subjects, from Wine & Beer Appreciation to Language Studies, Literature & the Arts, Discussion, Walking and Gardening Groups, as well as games playing groups. You can find out more information about your local U3A on our website – www.u3asites.org.uk/steyning or by dropping a note to PO Box 2595 Henfield, West Sussex BN5 0EA.

MISS POTTSPOTTERY PAINTING STUDIO

Open Monday to Saturday:

9am – 5pm

Free cup of tea, coffee or squash

with every studio fee

Henfield Post Office, High Street, HenfieldTel: 01273 492005, Mob: 07912 651800

Email: [email protected]

Fun for all the familyDrop-in studio

Birthday Parties & Classes

Photograph courtesy Mike Beardall, Oakfield Media

News | JULY 2014


A FESTIVAL OF MEDIAEVAL MAYHEM!The Loxwood Joust is the UK’s premiere Mediaeval fun day out taking place at the enchanting Loxwood Meadow on 2 and 3 August from 10am to 6pm. Step back in time and experience the verve and vigour of a world where lives were harsh and hearts were pas-sionate at this unique, fun and educational day out for all the family! The Loxwood Joust’s unrivalled pro-gramme of mediaeval revelry guarantees a day out like no other. A new fast-paced, all action jousting tournament will amaze and astound whilst daring displays of weap-onry, archery and cannon fire will enthral as fully ar-moured knights prepare to meet in a thunderous bat-tle. The main concert stage is where performances from the internationally acclaimed singing group the Mediaeval Baebe’s will enchant and soothe. Wander the massive Living History Village in the ‘Mediaeval Meadow’ – a totally authentic recreation of a medi-aeval battle camp and browse the Mediaeval Market Place where traders and hawkers vie for your atten-tion as companies of actors, wandering minstrels, the Court Jester and dance troupes entertain and delight throughout the day. For more information and ad-vance tickets see www.loxwoodjoust.co.uk

HENFIELD FRIENDS OF ST BARNABASLook out for the Sunflower Day Street Collection in aid of St. Barnabas on Saturday 12 July. Collectors will be in the High Street and at Swain’s Farm Shop from 9am until 1pm. We look forward to your support. During this month also look out for the St Barnabas Bus in Budgen’s Car Park - it is well worth a visit.Peggy McCormas

WINEHAM & SHERMANBURY NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN (WASP) Shermanbury Parish Council reported progress with their Neighbourhood Plan, the Wineham and Sher-manbury Plan (WASP), at their annual parish meeting in May. The process employed to create a Neighbour-hood plan within the terms of the Locality Act 2011 were reviewed and the essential element of consul-tation within the parish on every aspect of the plan, stressed. Results of two of the early elements of con-sultation were reviewed, the Parish Survey in which 35% of households responded and a Housing Needs Survey, completed by 32% of households.As reported previously the Parish Survey strongly endorsed maintenance of the open countryside and footpaths, the peace and quiet of the rural environ-ment and the wild life and woodlands. Road safety was also a common concern. Raised within the sur-vey was a desire to create more of a centre for parish life to strengthen the community. The need for affordable housing was raised within the parish survey and featured heavily within the housing needs survey which estimates a need for 20 afford-able homes over the coming 17 years. The housing needs survey in conjunction with requirements of the Horsham Development Framework can be used to calculate a total need for new homes within the parish of 51 from 2011 to 2031. To enable us to encourage the development of homes over the coming years to meet these needs we invite land owners to contact us with a view to having their land considered for de-velopment.Consultation across the Parish is the critical aspect of Neighbourhood planning and we need would like to involve residents in a series of Focus groups to devel-op parameters which can be used to select develop-ment sites. The objective is to build in such a way as to maximise the advantage to the community and mi-nimise any negative impact. If you wish to be involved in focus groups please contact the Shermanbury par-ish clerk and provide her with contact information. Rural business is important to the prosperity of the parish and we would invite local businesses and or-ganisations to contact us to attend a business devel-opment meeting. If you are local business or organ-isation and want to get involved please contact the Shermanbury Parish Clerk via email [email protected] or call 07909 332605.

01273 492509

Cat & Canary PubUpper Station Road, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9PJ

Check us out on facebook

Karaoke/Disco Last Saturday of the month

Open for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays

from 9.30amPoker every Thursday Night

Steak Night TuesdayCurry Night Thursday

Fish Night FridayRoast on Sunday

JULY 2014 | News


REV’D PETER BREWS UP In recent years there has been an enor-mous growth in the number of small breweries across the country, each pro-ducing its own partic-ular beers and selling through local outlets. In Partridge Green there is the Dark Star brewery, but slightly closer to Henfield in Small Dole is the Downlands Brewery with its own range of specialist beers. Downlands only start-ed in 2010, on an al-most experimental scale before brewing for the first time with their newly built equipment in August 2012. The team is still only three: Widdi, Dave and Ian, but together they brew to meet the growing demand for their beers. The Shepherd and Dog in Fulking always has their beer on tap if you want to taste it for yourself.Small Dole lies within the parish of St Peter’s Church in Henfield, and so Peter O’Connell, the curate at the church, spent a morning with them learning the ba-sics of making beer. The day started at 7.30am with the malt being added to hot water to extract the fla-vour and sugars. This produces a sweet liquid, called

wort, which is rather like an upmarket version of Oval-tine; it is this sweetness that eventually becomes the alcohol. The wort is boiled and the hops added in stages to make the bitterness, flavour and aroma of the beer. After boiling the beer is cooled so that the yeast can convert the sugar to alcohol. The whole process takes a few hours up to the point where the yeast is left to work for several days.The beer making process is clearly the best bit; the clearing up is the hard work that follows. All the malt and the hops have to be removed before the equip-ment can be used again, but in the process they have become hot and heavy from all the water. When it comes to shovelling them out it is useful to have some unskilled labour such as a local curate!Rev’d Peter O’Connell

THE PIZZA OVEN – WE’RE ON CLOUD 9!The Pizza Oven has moved from its Tuesday pitch in Henfield Library Car Park to the forecourt of Cloud 9 Car Wash/SE Tyres on the High Street. Henfield customers can expect the same high quality, freshly made and authentic pizzas, served every Tuesday be-tween 5.30 and 8.30pm. Helen Kerr and Emma Rogers, owners of the Pizza Oven, hope that the new location will be more con-venient for their pizza-loving regulars, who will be able to pull in off the High Street. It’s also hoped that the Oven’s more prominent position will attract new customers. Helen said: “We’re all about quality street food for the community, so it makes sense for us to be in the heart of things on the High Street.” Emma add-ed: “We hope more people will see our lovely green van with its twinkling lights and that they’ll stop to say hello; we’re always pleased to meet new people.” The Pizza Oven uses a wood fired clay oven to cook au-thentic, thin crust pizzas, topped with the finest Italian ingredients that are imported to order. Why not pop along and try them out?

SMALL DOLE SUMMER SHOWThe 70th Summer Show will be held on Saturday, 16 August, 2014 at Mackley’s Sports Field, Small Dole. Entry schedules are now available from The Small Dole Post Office Stores, The Fox Public House, Swains Farm Shop, Rushfields Plant Centre, Ham-felds, Henfield Post Office, Henfield Library and Jas-mine’s Florist.David Barrett

NEED HELP AROUNDTHE HOUSE

MAIDS OF STERNER STUFF

Are caring, reliable, high quality domesticcleaners, 7 days a week

Additional domestic services available, including ironing

Fully insured and CRB checkedReference available on request

07856 991241

News | JULY 2014


HENFIELD BIRDWATCH AREA SURVEYS

As may be expected, the January and Feb-ruary surveys were af-fected by the appalling weather. Many areas were under water and footpaths were impass-able. The bad weather and sheer amount of ground water meant that birds you might expect to see – such as herons and waders - were less evident than normal be-cause the flood water was too deep for them, whereas ducks were in their element and more were seen than is usual. Below is a very brief resume of some of

the highlights of the first three months. It should be noted that the place names relate to areas rather than exact locations – for example Parsonage means the Parsonage area and not just the Parsonage housing estate. In January Val saw 450 black headed gulls and 19 lap-wings on Rye Farm levels; Mike saw 27 robins and six buzzards at Woods Mill and Oreham and 30 skylarks at Stretham. The highest number of species seen was 45 at Woods Mill and Oreham. In February Nigel saw 41 blackbirds and seven yellowhammers on Parson-age; and Mike saw 300 starlings and 12 skylarks at Woods Mill and Oreham. Three ravens were also seen but I can’t remember who by or where! March survey-ing was definitely easier for everyone. Rye Farm Levels came up with 21 little egrets, 19 her-ons (now back with the drier ground), 41 coots, seven skylarks and 13 magpies. A tawny owl and a man-darin duck (!) were seen at Stretham. Nigel spotted seven skylarks and heard a chiff chaff and blackcap on Parsonage. Will saw a lesser spotted woodpecker at Henfield Common/Woodmancote and Paula saw a raven at New Barn. Roger recorded 18 snipe, one jacksnipe and two sand martins on West End Lev-els. The highest number of species seen was 46 at Stretham. Details of the April – June surveys will fol-low. Deborah Colgate, Henfield Birdwatch

ST MARY’S HOUSEOn Saturday 26 July at 7.30pm Dame Ann Murray (mezzo-soprano) will be performing with Terence Allbright (piano) at St Mary’s House in Bramber. Ann Murray is one of the foremost mezzo-sopranos in the world today and has sung at most of the major opera houses, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Bavarian State Opera and the Eng-lish National Opera. She is particularly noted for her performances of Handel, Mozart and Richard Strauss and has made major operatic appearances, including the Metropolitan Opera, New York, the Chicago Lyric Opera, and BBC Promenade Concerts. As a soloist, she sang with the Orchestre de Paris under Kubelik, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Musikverain, Vi-

enna. Earlier this year, she sang in Benjamin Britten’s Peter Grimes at San Francisco. In 2002, the Queen’s Jubilee year, she was made an Honorary Dame Com-mander of the British Empire for her services to music. Terrence Allbright, a much-admired performer in our concert series, is a composer and pianist, regularly giving recitals in West Sussex with many other instru-mentalists and singers, and frequently accompanies Ann Murray. The programme includes works by Pur-cell, Brahms, Fauré, Liza Lehmann, Ivor Novello and Irish traditional songs. Tickets (to include wine and canapés), £25 from the box office on 01903 816205 or visit www.stmarysbramber.co.uk

LISA PRINCE, 1972-2014 Janet, David, Graham and Harvey would like to say thank you to all their friends who gave so much sup-port and help in so many different ways while we spent two months at Lisa’s bedside at St Barnabas. Sadly Lisa passed away on 18 May after just five months of illness. We would also like to thank ev-eryone for all the cards, flowers and donations in her memory, it is very much appreciated.

HENFIELD PARISH COUNCILFollowing the resignation of Council Member Miah Babel there is a vacancy on Henfield Parish Coun-cil. As electors have not requested a bye-election it will be filled by co-option at the Council meeting on 5 August. Applications should be in writing to Parish Clerk Philip Hill at the Council Office, The Henfield Hall, Coopers Way, Henfield BN5 9DB by no later than 25 July. Applicants are invited to indicate any in-volvement they have or had in the life of Henfield and what skills and qualities they believe they can bring to this role. It is also recommended that prospective applicants observe a Council meeting in action. Full Council meetings are held on first Tuesday of month at 7pm and Council Committees meet throughout the month (details on Council website). If you want to find out more of what the role entails email Philip Hill at [email protected] the last few years street lighting contractors SSE have been working on behalf of West Sussex County Council to replace all street lights and col-umns throughout the County that are more than 15 years old. This replacement work will arrive in Henfield later in the year. Replacement is on a ‘like for like’ ba-sis unless local councils pay for an up-grade. Being aware this opportunity will not arise again for 25-30

Nep Town Road • Henfield • BN5 9DZ

www.fly-tying-materials.co.uk

NOW OPEN UNTIL 15TH JULY

(Closed 16th July - 31st August)

Photograph David Plummer www.davidplummerimages.co.uk

JULY 2014 | News


Local Fully Quali�ied Female Driving Instructor Tuition tailored to all levels of ability Pay per lesson, Intensive Courses, Refresher Lessons Support for Theory Test offered Manual Air Conditioned Citroen C3 1.6L Discount for Block Bookings

Contact Nicky Bidwell on 07769 339 174 Email : [email protected]

years, Henfield Parish Council has decided to commit £30,000 of its reserves to upgrade the street lighting in Henfield High Street and Church Street to a ‘heri-tage’ lighting design considered far more suitable for Henfield’s conservation area. Residents are reminded that street lighting faults can be reported on line direct to the maintenance contractors by visiting Henfield Parish Council’s website www.henfield.gov.uk and following the official link to street light fault reports.Henfield Parish Council was extremely disappointed to receive the Planning Inspectors judgement. It vig-orously opposed the application, both before Hor-sham District Council and the Planning Inspector and pays tribute to the many Henfield residents who worked tirelessly to resist this development. Henfield Parish Council continues to work with the local com-munity in developing a Neighbourhood Plan, which when approved it is hoped will strengthen the com-munity’s opposition to such developments in the fu-ture.Philip Hill

FRACKING ON HENFIELD COMMON?We’re concerned. Current laws of trespass require land- and home-owners to give permission for shale gas and oil drilling under their land, but the govern-ment intends to end this requirement in order to speed up fracking (hydraulic fracturing). Obviously, the shale gas companies are welcoming this move as it in effect gives them the right to frack anywhere in the UK. That’s right - anywhere. Henfield Common could well be under threat.We’re very concerned. Should fracking go ahead without any local or national debate? We need more transparency on the subject of fracking. Many people in the UK don’t even know how it will impact our en-vironment.Go to the Henfield Debates Fracking Facebook page for more info. Please sign the online Petition: Fracking in West Sussex. (http://epetition.westsussex.public-i.tv/epetition_core). We urgently need 3000 signatures by 20 July to prompt an open debate. Contact [email protected] if you are interested in joining Henfield Debates Fracking or wish to sign the paper version of the petition. Elizabeth Ross-Talbot

BUSY BEES TO CLOSEWe were very sad to hear that Busy Bees Playgroup will not be re-opening in September due to falling numbers. This friendly playgroup, based at Henfield Youth Club, has been running since the 1960’s.BN5 would like thank the hard working committee of volunteers who ran the playgroup, along with the ded-icated staff, and wish them luck in their future careers. It’s the end of an era and a great shame for the village. Please see page 11 for further details.

Emma Osman, Editor

THE COWFOLD CO-OPThe Co-operative is excited to be relocating from its current location at the Cowfold Village store to its new home at the old Coach House Inn. There will be only minor changes to the outside of the building to maintain its character in keeping with the village, but the space inside will allow us to offer a bright and modern store.The layout will be to the new ‘Gen 2’ format that is designed to make shopping easier and offer a greater selection of products. Parking will also be improved from the current site which will make just stopping and grabbing what you are after much easier and also help lessen the impact of deliveries. There will be a vastly improved range on bakery as well as across all fresh departments. New Store Manager Iain Fraser, who comes from Cowfold, is very excited about the move. “I can’t wait to get into the new site and really be able to give the village a store they can be proud of.” The store is planned to launch in early August and will be creating 10 jobs in the local area.Lester Pratt, Operations Manager

Photograph BN5 magazine

Local interest | JULY 2014

22 | BN5 MAGAZINE Want to know more? Go to www.bn5magazine.co.uk

The history of Scouting in Henfield has a very long and illustrious history (the oldest Scout Troop still in existence don’t you know…). But it’s the future

of Scouting in Henfield that we’re more interested in. The old Scout hut only has about two years life left in it. The Clarkes Mead Trust (who own the land), the Scouts, the BP Guild, the Vicar and the Parish Council are working hard together to replace it with a suitable alternative, but they desperately need your help, both practical and financial. “So what?” I hear you say. Well, if we lose Scouting in the village (and by Scouting I mean Cubs and Beavers as well), we will lose an awful lot.Scouting is the biggest youth organisation open to both boys and girls in the UK. They offer 6- to 25-year-olds fun and challenging activities, unique experienc-es, everyday adventure and the chance to help others so that they make a positive impact in communities. Scouting exists to make young people’s lives better, helping them realise their full potential and take their place in society. Scouts learn and develop skills in-cluding teamwork, time management, leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, cultural awareness and commitment. Scouting helps young people to get jobs, save lives and maybe, just maybe even change the world.It’s exciting being involved with Scouts – ask any Scout, Cub or Beaver. Adventure is at the heart of everything they do and they offer hundreds of activities as diverse as kayaking, camping, abseiling, staged performance, archery and even overseas expeditions. You can learn survival skills, first aid, computer programming, or per-haps even how to fly a plane. There’s something for ev-eryone and it’s a great way to have fun, make friends, get

outdoors, express creativity and experience the wider world. Parents know that Scouting gives their children more confidence, responsibility and a broader set of friends. Scouting can help develop a child’s social skills and encourage self-sufficiency, and gives them access to activities and opportunities that may have been other-wise unavailable to them. Do we really want to lose all these opportunities for our children and grandchildren?Well the good news is that you don’t have to be like Bear Grylls to get help get the new Scout hut off the ground! What the fundraising committee desperately need is support from villagers just like you to help with the project.In order to keep costs to a manageable minimum the fundraising group is now looking at a steel-framed building, approximately the same size as the existing

The Adventure Starts Here!

JULY 2014 | Local interest

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 23

building. The building will cost in the region of £150,000 and would be clad in wood and include the toilets and kitchen so that it could be used by the Scouts straight-away. Further work would then be needed to provide internal partitioning for ‘dens’ in the future.The skills required by the fundraising team are the moment are more business focused, for example fundraising, lottery grant applications and public re-lations to name a few. Once the structure of the hut goes up then there will be a need for skills such as plumbing, electrics, painting and general DIY.But if public relations or painting is really not your thing then don’t let that put you off helping. Fund-raising is still key to the project so please consider ‘buying a brick’ for only £25, or dropping some loose change into one of the many collection tins around the village. The fundraising committee is extremely grateful to the Garden and Arts weekend for choosing

the Scout Hut as their nominated charity this year. The proceeds from the annual pumpkin competition run by the Henfield Club will also be added to the pot later in the year so you’ll be in very good company!However you chose to help, let’s prevent Henfield Scouts from becoming a footnote of Scouting history – let’s keep the fun, challenge and adventure alive!Sarah ButlerIf you would like to discuss how you can help keep the keep the fun, challenge and adventure of Scouting alive in Henfield, please call Mike Morgan (Treasurer of the Clarkes Meade Trust) on 01273 492134 or email him on [email protected] Information on Scouting taking from www.scouts.org.uk

Browns Meadow, Edburton, Henfield01273 857520 www.colesautomotive.co.uk

COLESAUTOMOTIVE

Air-Con Re-Gas

just £45+vat

We offer a Free Air Conditioning Check

COLES OFFER A FULL AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE

l A name you can trustl BOSCH-quality assuredl Affordable & competitive pricesl Free courtesy car on request

How COOL is your car?



A magical weekend

at Sussex Prairies


01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 27

Let’s face it; you don’t really need an excuse to visit the beautiful gardens of Sussex Prairies on the Albourne Road, as there is always some-

thing new to see. But if you did need an excuse, then the weekend of the 19-20 July will provide you with the perfect opportunity. Not only will the unique gardens be in their full summer splendour, but owners Paul and Pauline McBride also have two fascinating family events taking place.Blackfoot Lodge and Spirit of the West are regular visitors to Sussex Prairies and they look very much at home amongst the prairie grasses! Blackfoot Lodge is a group of friends from all over the South of Eng-land who share an interest in Native Americans and the Fur Trade era of American History. They share the historic Native Americans love of nature which is characterised by their care for the land and respect for the environment. When they meet at rendezvous, pow-wows and events they camp in tipis or other types of authentic tents from the era. They also show authentic artefacts, beadwork and costumes (most of which they have made themselves) and they enjoy talking to visitors and demonstrating how things were made and used.On the same magical weekend and sharing the same love of nature will be Anne Kelly, the Sussex Prairies artist in residence. Anne collects recycled fabric, pa-per and ephemera using collage, stitch, photographic

and print processes to create a range of work. Among her inspirations are travel, memory, vintage imagery and folk art. Anne will be running original community textile art workshops from her prairie wagon studio (in our garden studio) for the RSPB under her banner ‘Natural history in the Garden’. All proceeds from the event will be donated to RSPB projects in the south east. One of the RSPB’s national campaigns this summer is ‘Give nature a home’. Their website has a won-derful range of practical activities you can take part in including: sowing wild flowers; feeding the birds; planting a tree or shrub; creating a water feature; making your hedge a home; or even just giving your lawn mower a rest! During the course of the weekend at Sussex Prairies you will also be able to discover hands-on the secret world of amazing creatures that live in the ponds and meadows of the Prairie Gardens. Children will be able to learn how to build bug hotels (and more importantly take them home!) and also take part in bug sweeping and identification activities.All this together with the opportunity to roam in amongst six acres of the most spectacular gardens, and the usual delicious teas, coffees and home bak-ing available throughout the day… well what are you waiting for?Sarah Butler

Nature at its finestBunny Guinness, Sunday Telegraph 2012“

“Sussex Prairie Garden• Teas & delicious home baking• Unusual Plant Sales & Beautiful Cut Flowers• Open 6 days a week 1 - 5pm (closed Tuesdays)

� � � � � ��

s u s s e x p r a i r i e s

g a r d e n

Workshops July 2014Making Beaded Jewellery - 3rd

Spinning & Dyeing Class - 12th & 25th

Spirit of the West – 19th & 20th

Give Nature a Prairie Home with

RSPB – 19th & 20th

Prairie Paper and Stitch - 26th

Incredible Sax Band - 26th

Felt Beads and Bangles - 27th

At Morlands Farm, Wheatsheaf Road, Henfield, BN5 9AT

01273 495902 | www.sussexprairies.co.uk


CoffeeShop

We have free wi-fiSit in or take away

Find us next to Jasmines Florist on Henfield High Street

Open all day every day (Sunday ‘til lunch time)

Now Open!Enjoy fresh barista coffee and a selection of amazing cakes and pastries in a comfortable relaxed atmosphere.

Tel: 01273 492654 Mob: 07833 500801Email: [email protected]

www.pannisa.co.uk

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 29

Kim Cook and her team of waitresses have created a lovely, warm and welcoming ambiance at the Steyning Tea Rooms – it’s

a bit like going round to your Granny’s but, dare I say it, with better cake!

“Whether you are a regular or just a passing traveller they welcome you into this nook of loveliness and make you feel part of something warm and traditional.”

Kim bought the tea rooms almost by accident nearly two years ago: “My husband and I were looking to buy a house in the area but we kept getting gazumped.” she explained. “Then this place came on the market and we fell in love with it! I’ve always wanted to run my own tea shop and here was the perfect opportunity.” With a background in web site management and no catering experience to speak of it was a bit of a leap of faith for Kim. “I’ve learnt a lot over the past two years, not just about cake but also about VAT returns and book-keeping” she laughed.

“Absolutely Gorgeous little tea room serving lovely food and soups, cakes and cream teas, very highly recommended though very busy so booking ahead would be wise”

The interior is bright and welcoming with a taste-ful décor of vintage, stripped pine furniture, chintzy wallpaper, fresh flowers and a jumble of delightfully mis-matched crockery. Kim is keen to ensure that all

customers receive the best service and everybody is made to feel welcome, including walkers, cyclists and even well behaved dogs! “We have just received a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor for the sec-ond year running which we are absolutely delighted about,” beamed Kim. “I’ve worked really hard to bring the standard of ser-vice up and I have a lovely team working with me and it’s great to have this recognised.”

“To die for! Lovely Cornish cream and scones that melt in your mouth. Choices of scrummy cakes too”

Excellent customer service is just one of the things which draw their many regular customers back time and time again: the other things are the wonderful food and drink! Unsurprisingly, tea is their most popu-lar drink and it is properly served in china cups and saucers, and the teapots are kept warm by beautifully crocheted tea cosies. Tea aficionados will be pleased to know that there isn’t a teabag in sight – just good old fashioned loose leaves and a tea strainer! If tea is not your thing, there is plenty of good quality coffee to choose from together with a range of delicious soft drinks.

“I’ve sampled both savouries and sweets and can’t fault anything! Sometimes busy - but that just shows how popular it is, which to me can only be a good thing”

Time for tea

Kim has kept the menu deliberately simple, keeping the focus on quality and using local ingredients wherever possible. From traditional break-fasts to light lunches and not forgetting of course the cake, everything is freshly made by hand on the prem-ises. The team start baking first thing in the morning and carry on throughout the day whenever they get a lull - on a typical Saturday they will bake around 90 scones and three or four cakes, the most popular be-ing Raspberry Bakewell and Chocolate Tiffin. Those with a gluten or dairy intolerance are very well catered for with a special range of homemade scones, cakes and crumpets. Even the jam for the cream teas and the chutney for the lunches are homemade and cus-tomers can buy jars of their favourite to take home. “I literally can’t make the jam quick enough” admit-ted Kim. “I’ve made up my own special rhubarb and vanilla jam recipe for the summer and a plum jam for the winter and both just fly out of the door!”

“Love love love this place! Amazing food, especially the seasonal foods like the scones. A must visit for everyone! The staff are wonderful, such a pleasant place to be”

Children are made very welcome with plenty of high-chairs and spotless baby-change facilities for the very youngest guests through to toys and books to keep older toddlers amused. But the real draw is the teddy bear picnics: a perfectly presented children’s lunch with their very own teapot filled with juice, ready for pouring into their very own china mug. “There’s something very satisfying about pouring your own drink and we find that children absolutely love it!” ex-plained Kim. “And it’s perfect for birthday parties for both boys and girls.”

“My little boy loved his “teddy bears picnic” it was just such a lovely experience!”

And the parties at the Steyning Tea Rooms are not just limited to children: “It’s a lovely intimate venue and we’ve hosted 90th birthday parties, christenings

and even hen-do’s here” said Kim. “And we can also supply outside catering for those who want to experi-ence our food but in a bigger venue. We love working with people to make their event special.”

“We often come here and I would stay all af-ternoon if I could. The food is AMAZING and the staff are so friendly. I just don’t have a bad word to say”

Kim has plenty of plans for the future such as increas-ing the range of local ingredients and even growing her own vegetables and herbs to use in soups and salads. But in the short term she and her team are very much looking forward to the Steyning Food Fes-tival this September. “We will be raising money for the St Barnabas hospice charity which is a fabulous cause… and they take their afternoon tea very seri-ously too!”The Steyning Tea Rooms, 32 High Street, SteyningOpen seven days a week, 10am-6pm, 01903 810103, www.steyningtearooms.co.uk*All quotes taken from www.tripadvisor.co.uk January to June 2014.


ForgeA friendly, personal service from a business established

for over 25 years.* Servicing

* Courtesy Vehicles * Mot Testing Station

* Electronic Diagnostics * Now Supplying & Fitting TyresCall 01273 857216

T/A Sussex 4 Wheel Drive The Street,Poynings BN45 7AQ

The

Garage

Louise LorimerPHOTOGRAPHER • OPEN STUDIO5 Benson Road, Henfield BN5 9HY

07984 437615Original Print Cards, Canvases, Paintings, Vintage Jewellery, Commissions

OPEN WEEKENDS17th, 18th May: 9am - 5pm14th, 15th June: 9am - 5pmGardens & Arts Weekend14th, 15th July: 9am - 5pm

Proudly supported by:Tracy Smyth - Bespoke Canvas Art

Liz’s Cakes - Traditional Baking

Come along & join us...

www.lorimerphotography.co.uk

We have an extensiverange of stock including:

• Tools

• House Ware

• DIY Supplies

• Electrical Goods

• Key Cutting

• Ironmongery

• Painting & Decorating

• Gardening

Your friendly, localHARDWARE STORE

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY01273 492388

3 Brick House, High Street,Henfield, W. Sussex, BN5 9DB

New tool

shop now open!

HamfeldsHOME & GARDEN

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 33

slimmingworld.com0844 897 8000

Join a warm and friendly group near you today…

loveSlimming

WorldMONDAYHenfield Evangelical Free Church, High Street 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pmTel: Helen 07741 417123

A complete range of Beauty, Nail and Holistic treatments in a luxurious environment with friendly staff. We have a wide range of treatments and special offers every month and we have flexible hours to suit you, with treatments for women, men and children, and tailored packages for all occasions.

NATASHA’S BEAUTY SALON01273 494732

BRICK LANE HENFIELD BN5 9DB

Look out for our special offers on our facebook page and specials board at the salonWe’re pleased to welcome the lovely Rachel to our team

at Natasha’s.Come and meet her and enjoy 25% off

Massages and 25% off Environ Facials.

(Offer valid until 31 July)

HENFIELD EYECAREIndependent Opticians

There are exciting times ahead for Henfield Eye Care as they merge with Henfield Optical and incorporate their well

respected Audiology service into the business.The merger, with Henfield Eye Care’s Sajid Hussain at the helm, will be a very positive one for both sets of patients. It’s been prompted by the retirement of Linda Mayers from Henfield Optical, who has been providing a first-class optical service in the village for many years. Linda said; “I am confident that Sajid will provide Henfield Optical patients with a great service and establish the same loyal relationship we have had. I will always have fond memories of running my business in the village but I am pleased to be leaving the business with a safe pair of hands.”Sajid said; “This is a wonderful progression for Henfield Eye Care. We look forward to working with new members of the team, as well as meeting new customers and offering them our wide range of frames. I am a varifocal expert as well as having particular interest in glaucoma and macular degeneration so I have plenty to offer our new patients and can reassure them of

a continuing good service. The long-term health of my patients’ eyes is my absolute priority.”The addition of Bryan Tiller, RHAD, independent hearing-aid audiologist, is a very welcome one for Sajid. “This is a wonderful service to offer our existing customers as well as new customers in the village and from further afield. Bryan has a similar approach to us at Henfield Eye Care so it’s a natural pairing – he is a strong advocate of using the very latest digital equipment and he has tremendous attention to detail as well as a great relationship with his patients. We are very pleased to be welcoming him on board.”Bryan offers free hearing tests at either Henfield Eye Care or in your own home if you are less mobile. He is always keen to explain results in plain English and he dispenses the very latest custom in-ear hearing aids, which are discreet and revolutionary for many patients who have suffered from hearing problems. You can have a free trial of the aid before you decide.

To celebrate the new Henfield Eye Care, Sajid is offering an incredible 50% OFF ALL SUNGLASSES including prescription sunglasses! This deal includes the latest designer frames from this season, so take your voucher to Henfield Eye Care quickly to claim your discount!

The future looks bright for Henfield Eye Care!

50% OFF ALL SUNGLASSESWITH THIS VOUCHER

HENFIELD EYECAREIndependent Opticians

Celebrate with Henfield Eye Care!

a continuing good service. The long-term health of my patients’ eyes is my absolute priority.”The addition of Bryan Tiller, RHAD, independent hearing-aid audiologist, is a very welcome one for Sajid. “This is a wonderful service to offer our existing customers as well as new customers in the village and from further afield. Bryan has a similar approach to us at Henfield Eye Care so it’s a natural pairing – he is a strong advocate of using the very latest digital equipment and he has tremendous attention to detail as well as a great relationship with his patients. We are very pleased to be welcoming him on board.”Bryan offers free hearing tests at either Henfield Eye Care or in your own home if you are less mobile. He is always keen to explain results in plain English and he dispenses the very latest custom in-ear hearing aids, which are discreet and revolutionary for many patients who have suffered from hearing problems. You can have a free trial of the aid before you decide.

To celebrate the new Henfield Eye Care, Sajid is offering an incredible 50% OFF ALL SUNGLASSES including prescription sunglasses! This deal includes the latest designer frames from this season, so take your voucher to Henfield Eye Care quickly to claim your discount!

The future looks bright for Henfield Eye Care!

Including prescription lenses. Offer ends 31/08/14 REF BN5

www.hairandcompany.co.uk

Call us today on 01273 492952 to book your appointment

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 39

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 41

The Steyning Bookshop

106 High Street

Steyning 01903 812062

Books for all the family

Books for all the

family

[email protected]

The SteyningBookshop

106 High StreetSteyning

01903 812062

Longer Days

Now Available

NURSERYHigh quality care and

education for children aged 0-5 in a rural setting justfive minutes from Henfield

7.30am - 7.00pm51 weeks of the year

For more information please contact Laura on

07766 884009 / 01273 [email protected]

Opening times to suityour life style

NOW REGISTERINGFOR SEPTEMBER 2014

We will give you something to smile about

Delivering Better Dentistry

[email protected] 495966

At the Mallards we cater for all your dental needs including:• Routine dental care for the whole family• Dental hygienists• Implants• Tooth whitening• Snoring & sleep apnea devices• Cosmetic treatments• Same day crowns & bridges with Cerec technology• Smile makeovers

Bef

ore

Afte

r

Easy on-site parking with wheelchair access.

Please feel free to pop in to discuss your dentalneeds with our friendly experienced staff.

Peter Apostolopoulos D.D.S & Associates

www.mallardsdental.co.uk

2 Mallard Way, Henfield, BN5 9HFor call us on 01273 495966


Osteopathic Treatment for Babies

Please contact the Clinic to find out more and to book appointments with Harriet Lennon or one of our three other osteopaths, Nicki Newson, Sue Baillie or Paul Harrington who is new to our team.Tel: 01273 835166 or email us at [email protected] us on Facebook at: facebook.com/nicki.newsonFollow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/sussexostepath

135-137 High Street Hurstpierpoint BN6 9PU 01273 835116 www.sussex-osteopath.co.uk

“I have been seeing a lot of babies at the crawling stage with both digestive discomfort and slight structural abnormalities noticed by parents i.e. head held side bent. These may appear separate issues. However, osteopaths look to the spine and treat tension in muscles and position of joints which may contribute to altered signals of the nervous system.

Osteopaths are extremely experienced in feeling the muscles and joints of the body and bringing them back to health. We use a number of techniques - stretching, ‘manipulation’ and gentle techniques which include cranial and positional release. Osteopaths look at the whole body and then discuss which techniques would be most suitable.”

Harriet Lennon, Osteopath at the clinic, shares her experience of treating babies…

1

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 43

For more information about EFT and how it could help, visit www.personalpeace.co.uk

or call 01273 491307

Set Yourself Free With EFTEmotional Freedom Techniques

For fast effective relief from a wide range of emotional and physical problems. Gets to the root cause.

Anxiety, fears & phobias, addictions, trauma, depression,self-image, confidence, pain relief, anger & much more...

Try EFT in a free initial consultation

Phil GrantEFT (Adv.), Dip I.Hyp, AAMET, GRCCT reg.

Henfield Physiotherapy& Sports Injury Clinic

LAWFIELD HOUSE, WEST END LANE, HENFIELD BN5 9UH

Do you have problems with:Lower Back / Neck Pain?Knee / Ankle / Hip injury?Sports injury / Foot pain?

Contact: Elaine Scott Grad. Dip Phys., MSCP,Physiotherapist, on 01273 493676

International Triathlete. HPC Registered.Provider for Medical Insurance.

Do you need advice on:Fitness training for fullrecovery after injury?Prevention of back & neck painand sports injuries?

Original handmade jewelleryWedding jewellery and tiaras

Jewellery workshops • Open by appointmentcredit/debit cards now taken

07866 835640 | 01903 [email protected] | www.klawriejewellery.co.uk

Stable Studio | Hammes Farm | Washington Road Steyning | BN44 3DA

…for you and your homeCALL NOW 01273 494990

• Friendship and laughter

• Help with everyday living and personal care

• Family support through respite visits and advice

• Social outings and help with appointments

• Choice in how you want things done

• Flexibility (because we know plans can change)

• Local staff ensuring reliability

Your local homecare company offering:

A family businessproviding specialist

homecare in Henfield & surrounding area

Specialists in Dementia and End of Life CareExceeding all the standards required by the Care Quality Commission,

WSCC approved and all staff Police checked.

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 45

SELECTACARPET A family business with over 18 years’ experience of fantastic service and carpet fitting!!

• Lea will come to you with a van full of samples.

• No need to guess the colour or style, you can “selectacarpet” in your own home!

• Our price is always our best price.

Pick your fabulous new flooring at home or work.

Quality Carpets and Vinyls from Selectacarpet your local flooring firm. Call Linsey or Lea on 07967 488450 or 01444 245563 or email [email protected]


The Towers Convent School boys (up to age eight) and girls (up to age sixteen) have a wealth of opportunities and experiences to prepare them for the modern world. We are lucky enough to have been here for 110 years and to work in beautiful surroundings, all of which contributes to our high expectations, values, dynamic teaching and outstanding results: academic, musical, sporting, dramatic, debating, public speaking and artistic.

You will most certainly be beguiled and entranced by our setting. At first glance our quirky and characterful buildings may be reminiscent of Hogwarts but nothing could be further from the truth once you are inside. Every classroom has interactive whiteboards, which our committed staff use to inspire our pupils. Our modern lecture theatre, which seats about 200 people, is the perfect venue for guest speakers and our spacious drama studio brings out the ‘Drama Queen’ in most

pupils! For our talented musicians the music suite enables future stars to compose and record their own work. Every day our pupils are nurtured and supported by our strong pastoral system but also challenged to take risks and see just what they can achieve; hence our year-on-year academic success and extraordinary added value.Pupils lucky enough to start in our Nursery and Junior School receive a rich, well balanced and experiential curriculum enveloped by state-of-the-art facilities and delightful outdoor play space. Attending the Nursery and Junior School consistently proves to be the perfect preparation for the Senior School – the entire Towers experience.We pride ourselves on being a family school. Our values and our pupils’ happiness are at the heart of everything we do and are key to our well-rounded, highly qualified and socially adept pupils’ future success.

Come and see how we work our magicwww.towers.w-sussex.sch.uk or contact us on 01903 812185

The Towers building has remained standing for almost one hundred and thirty years be-cause it was built on firm foundations. The aim of The Towers Convent School, housed within the original building and its many extensions, is to provide secure foundations for the children who attend our lovely school. From the two-year-olds in the Nursery to the confident, articulate sixteen-year-olds who move on to other schools we plan for happy individuals who are at ease with themselves and with others and who are ready to go out into the world to make a difference.

The facilities and curriculum prepare pupils for life in the twenty first century whilst the ethos is grounded in Christian teaching with clear moral messages. We are proud that our values are traditional but we recognise the huge value that the world places on technology so that the challenge is to enable our pupils to excel in today’s society whilst still having the ability to commu-nicate in a way that our ancestors would understand!

All research shows that girls learn better and are more successful if they are taught in a single-sex, all-girls environment. This, in part, explains why we welcome boys into our Nursery but ask that they move on once they reach the end of Key Stage One and also helps to explain why are GCSE results are simply phenomenal! For the past five or six years we have figures to show that girls who are at The Towers by Year 7 will achieve GCSE results which are at least two grades higher than they would expect to achieve elsewhere. Mathematics and science are often problem areas for girls but at The Towers whereas the A and A* figure nationally for maths is 15.4% ours is 66% the figures are similar for the science subjects too. However, the girls also have the same degree of success in most other subjects. Overall we expect 100% of each Year 11 group to gain at least five or more GCSEs at A*-C including maths, English and science but realistically the achievements are so much higher. This year there were forty-five girls in Year 11 and of them thirteen achieved all of their grades at A* or A.

However, The Towers certainly is not ‘all work and no play’, far from it. The pupils are renowned for their sporting prowess, winning major titles annually; for

their musical and dramatic achievements, with pro-ductions of professional quality each year; for their ability to speak publically, winning local competitions for public speaking; for their charitable and fund-raising ideas and just for simply being lovely girls and good citizens. They are the sort of girls who put their minds to something and there is simply no stopping them! The year of the Boxing Day Tsunami the girls, with no adult help, put together in just a week an eve-ning auction with the most amazing items donated by local businesses and parents and raised over £8000. Last year they heard that DJ Chris Evans had request-ed choirs to record their own version of the Military Wives’ song ‘Wherever you are’. So in three hours the Senior Choir rehearsed and recorded the song which was then played in its entirety on Radio 2 just two days later. It would be fair to say that Towers girls are deter-mined but not arrogant, strong-minded but polite and their care for each other is evident.

In addition to the wide variety of extra –curricular ac-tivities available there are opportunities for the pupils to develop leadership qualities through the Nationally recognised Sports Leader Award and the Duke of Ed-inburgh Award Scheme. Both of these run alongside each other and give the pupils opportunities to learn new skills and to enhance old ones. They love to be involved in the after school activities provided for the Junior pupils.

We recognise that parents are busy people and The Towers tries to help to make their lives run smoothly too with options for breakfast club from 7:30am, after school care and supper until 6pm and even opportuni-ties for children to board overnight to allow parents to attend overseas business meetings. In all cases the children are cared for in a small community and are treated as you would expect them to be treated were they at home.

However, it is easy for any school to claim that they are the school which will suit your child and the only way to really find out is for parents and children to visit and for the children to spend some time ‘tasting’ the real-ity. In other words it is essential to pay us a visit and see for yourselves.

For further details please contact: The School [email protected]: www.towers.w-sussex.sch.uk

Telephone Number: 01903 812185

THE TOWERS CONVENT SCHOOL

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 47


ConservatoryThe

Co.

Contact Steve: 01273 491 644 or 07901 556 624email: [email protected]

CUSTOM MADE CONSERVATORIESDrainage & Footings

PATIOS & DRIVEWAYSLandscaping

EST. 40 YEARSVisit our Facebook Page:The Conservatory Co

TRIM DECORATING

Call Robbie Trim07957 463706

[email protected]

Your Local Decorator

Interior & ExteriorHigh quality paints supplied

10 years experience

Save 20% - NO VATFREE ESTIMATES

High quality decoration of domestic property

SPECIALISING INComplete Bathroom Installation & Tiling

Free Estimates, No Call Out Charge

email: [email protected]

Call Cleve on 07931 330392

COWFOLD BASED PLUMBERNo Callout

Charge24hr Callout

Rapid Response • Police checkedFree Estimates • No VAT • OAP DiscountLocks Changed & Upgraded (To BS3621)

uPVC Specialist • Window locks • Garage locksLock outs, Break ins, all makes of locks.

Have you just moved? Who else has a set of keys?For peace of mind do you need your locks changed?

Do you locks comply with your home insurance?

www.lucylocksmith.co.uk [email protected]

MICK PATCHINGGENERAL BUILDER

PAINTING & DECORATING(No Job Too Small)

TEL: 01273 491840 MOB: 07765 501740

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 49

A.C.T Pest Control MOBILE: 07867 500375For the control of rodents andinsects including mice, rats,squirrels, moles, ants, waspsand all other pest infestations.

Call Andrew Tullett onOffice: 01273 494050

• 22 years experience in pest control

• Domestic and commercial

• Approved local authority contractor

• Local Henfield company

• NPTA Registered

• Fully insured


CONTAIN YOURSELF

STORAGEHome and Business Storage Solutions

01273 501901www.containyourselfstorage.co.ukSELF STORAGE IN SMALL DOLE

Call: 01273 842687

For Your Wasp Problems

JUST GUTTERS

Call Andrew on Henfield 492854 07871 475501

Don’t let a small leakbecome abig problemAlltypesof gutteringcleared&cleanedRepairs&replacementalsoundertakenApprovedinstallerof ‘HedgehogGutter Brush’- keeps gutters clear 07768330863

En-suite rooms with FREE WiFi accessLCD TVs & coffee / tea facilitiesRooms from £45 per person per nightQuiet village location off A281

Martyn Close Henfield BN5 9RQ01273 493518 / 07788 713864 www.no1thelaurels.co.uk

Credit & Debit cards accepted

Laurels Mar 09:Layout 1 13/2/09 11:20 Page

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 51

www.hawthornvets.co.uk

A welcoming practice offering personalservices and quality veterinary care forall your family pets’ needs.

Please feel free to contact Jonathan and Annelise Underwood MRCVS and Associates to discuss any aspect of your pets’ care at the practice.

The Old Bakehouse | High Street | Partridge Green | RH13 8HU 01403 710332Wantley Cottages | London Road | Henfield | BN5 9JP 01273 495227

Email: [email protected]

HawthornVeterinary SurgeriesPartridge Green and Henfield

Small Family run business offeringlove & fun for canines!

Call Louise01273 492055 / 07984 437615

Dog Walking Service with over10 years experience

Specialising in lead training

Reliable / Friendly / Experienced

£6.00 per hr / £3.00 per half hr

Locally Based / CRB checked / Fully Insured

Interesting & Safe walks

Like us on Facebook



Stepping Out, Henfield Theatre Company’s May pro-duction, is proof that laughter and enjoyment are contagious, and that this local drama group con-

tinues to thrive and regularly provide value for money entertainment. This play, originally penned by Richard Harris in 1984 with very successful productions in London’s West End and New York, portrays seven ladies and a bach-elor from disparate backgrounds and with differing motivations who attend the same weekly tap danc-ing class in a dingy church hall. Their teacher, Mavis, and the dour piano accompanist Mrs Frazer have their own hang-ups and aspirations. The scenes are set over a period of a year with the dancers initially treat-ing the classes as social occasions, showing little co-ordination, but finally having to face the challenge of a public performance. The characters were played with consistency and sensitivity, each having their distinct lines of humour and wisecracks. There were no lost lines, no preg-nant pauses, and the character interaction was well

balanced and realistic. The audience enjoyed plenty of laughs and the production culminated in a tremen-dous tap dancing finale in cabaret costumes, with all repressions blown away. Whilst all the characters were well portrayed, there were memorable scenes from supercilious and house-proud Vera, forever ti-dying the church hall, showing off her latest clothing and blithely dropping verbal bombshells, to the to-tally unexpected spectacle of Mrs Frazer as she has a ‘behind-the-scenes’ attempt at tap dancing, every move relentlessly caught by a following spotlight, but unseen by the other characters.The simple stage set of the drab, minimal, untidy community hall effectively set the scene and the background musical effects blended well, though the musical support could have been more frequent in keeping with the musical connotations of the story. Full marks to the production director Anne Atkins, the well matched cast and the support team for an enter-taining production.Jean-Pierre, Joan Pirault and Dick Dixon

Stepping Out!


01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 53

“If this were played upon a stage now, I could condemn it as an improbable fiction.”Twelfth Night, Act 3 iv.Every other summer the Henfield Theatre Company treats itself and its audiences to a glorious week of Shakespeare, or perhaps Wilde, in the open air. In the past, performances were within the high hedges of the Vicarage, but these days they are held in the beautiful garden at Red Oaks Care Home on Cagefoot Lane. This summer is no exception.There isn’t anything in the world more magical, more mysteriously engaging, than the combination of a still dusk, warm turf, twinkling lights and Shakespeare. Of course, a glass of Pimms in one hand adds a little something! This year we offer Twelfth Night directed by Rosemary Nice: a preposterous romantic comedy containing all the ludicrous elements that make the story worth the telling. We can guarantee you beautiful costumes, haunting music, revels and anarchy, resolving themselves as Shakespeare does by elevating it all to a sublime experience. We can’t guarantee you perfect weather, so dress accordingly, but bring a picnic and be prepared to fall in love with languorous language, frolics in farthingales and revels in ruffs!Did you know that Shakespeare wrote this play specifically for the law students in the Middle Temple on the Feast of the Epiphany? The fifth of January was officially the last day of the Christmas celebra-tions which started on Christmas Eve. During the course of these all discipline was thrown to the wind, a Lord of Misrule was elected and a good deal of reveling took place. It was rather like a modern uni-versity Rag Week. The first performance took place in the Middle Temple Great Hall where traditionally a party was held on Twelfth Night and anything went.

Afterwards, order would be restored and life returned to normal.Shakespeare picked up on these ideas: in his play the Lord of Misrule was represented by Sir Toby Belch, who not only behaves outrageously in his niece’s household but goads others (notably Sir Andrew Aguecheek) to do likewise. He is the incarnation of all appetites – as Falstaff was in Henry IV – and so causes all the trouble. Malvolio, of course, repre-sents the pompous, vain, overweening ambition which is to be brought down by the letter plot. He is probably based on various professorial characters or even judges. The two characters are the keys to the comedy; whereas the twins, Viola and Sebastian, are the unwitting causes of mistaken identity and consequent absurdness. Everyone knows (especially Shakespeare, the father of fraternal twins) that identi-cal twins have to be the same sex and couldn’t really be confused. However, we go along with the plot, even when we are wondering who is kidding who!Love threads its bitter-sweet way throughout the play. Olivia and Orsino are both misguided in their own ways, the one turning to grief rather than life and the other mistaking a romantic ideal for the real thing. They both resolve their lives in their own way (although cynics might think that they deserved each other anyway!). All these threads are drawn together by characters who provide links and who see the big picture, like Feste the jester. He’s the free spirit, both the glue in the play and the fly in the ointment, whose sad song at the end brings us back to real life. Henfield Theatre Company will be performing Twelfth Night from 30 July to 2 August at 7.30pm in the gardens of Red Oaks. Gates will open at 6pm for picnickers and there will be a Pimms tent. Tickets are £10 each and are available from 14 July from Henfield Furnishings, telephone 01273 490080.Henfield Theatre Company

Twelfth Night


High quality, professional & trustworthy service36 years qualified experienceFamily run company based inHenfield

Conversions Extensions Refurbishments Renovations

Office: 01403 891101Alan Daniels: 07766 522673

Daren Bonwick: 07811 194178Email: [email protected]

PAUL MCDERMOTTElectrician

Local ~ Fully QualifiedFully Insured ~ 17th Edition

Part P Registered• Installation • Testing

• Certification • Appliance Testing07718 509543 • 01273 495927

[email protected]

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 55

SpecialistGround/Garden/Site ClearanceTree SurgeryHedge CuttingSheds & Out Buildings Cleared

Anytime

• Climbing• Dismantling

• Pruning

• Wood Chipper

• Felling

• Reductions

JONATHAN CARTERNPTC City & Guilds Qualified / Insured.

07732 [email protected]

TREE SURGERY

• Stump Grinding

0758404556101403 865731

[email protected]

TRIM CONSTRUCTION · Carpentry & bespoke timber framing

· Specialist in Traditional oak framing

· Repair, restoration and new build

· House frames, garages, log cabins and general building works

Design & Build

Refurbishments

Maintenance 07736 675074optimalproperty.co.uk


We MendWashing Machines All Makes of Washing Machines No Call Out Charge Same Day Service Manufacturer Trained All Work Guaranteed

Discount with this advertContact: 01273 493437

All surrounding areas coveredwww.wemendwashingmachines.com

• We Specialise In Custom MadeCurtains & Upholstery

• All Types Of Blinds Including Roller, Roman, Venetian & Vertical

Items For Sale Include Fabrics, Wallpapers, Linings, Tracks And Poles

• Our Own Fitting Service Available; Free Estimates

• Locally Established Business With 25 Years Experience

Curtainmaking - Blinds & Clothing AlterationsBarbara Ritchie

Call Barbaraon 01273 492864

for more information [email protected]

REPAIR,SERVICING & INSTALLATIONOF YOUR GAS, LPG & OIL

HEATING SYSTEMS

Est. 1998

AGA servicing undertaken

Contact: Peter Jenkins on Henfield

01273 49215507710 937815

Reg.No.198481

Reg.No.C10135

B&I CARPETS

Free EstimatesProfessional AdviceSamples brought to your home

01273 492950Bob Cragg

Serving Henfield for over 25 years

Carpets, Vinyls

& Karndean Tiles

Supplied & Fitted

aaa

Based in Henfield, covering all surrounding villages & towns

Local Private Hire Servicewithout the TAXI prices!01273 491 888 www.henfieldvillagecars.co.uk

Established for 13 years

HenfieldVillage Cars

4 - 8 Seater

l Free child seat storage for Airport returnsl Discounted taxi faresl Local & long journeysl Friendly, prompt & reliable• Gatwick from £35 • Heathrow from £70

• Southampton from £85

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 57

MILEOAKSERVICES est1992� Servicing & repairs� For all makes & models - cars & commercial� Engine management diagnostics� MOT & welding repairs� Local collection & delivery

01273494570unitZ(2B),MackleyIndustrialEstate,smalldole,henfieldBN59XR

class 4&7

your localmot testing

centre

Mile Oak Mar 09:Layout 1 17/2/09 10:53 Page 1

property maintenance and refurbishment

� painting and decorating � kitchens and bathrooms� floor and wall tiling � fencing and decking � garage and loft conversions

you and your home treated with respect

Tel 01273 491822 Mobile 07775 671167 www.henfieldhomes.co.uk

NO VAT

Burt Electrical

Henfield07761 [email protected]

GAS, PLUMBING &HEATING ENGINEERS

M. C. SERVICES

• Boiler installation, service & repair specialist• Landlord Safety Certificates issued, gas cookers

& fires installed & serviced • All aspects of plumbing work undertakenNo job too small - No VAT to pay

Call Matthew on 07979 746239 for prompt & reliable service

Family-run businessbased in Henfield, West Sussex

WE CLEAN ALL......RANGES OVENS HOBS

EXTRACTORS AGASMICROWAVES FRIDGES

FREEZERS & BBQ’S

01273 964550


ADRIANOVERLocal Plasterer

Est. 1966Specialist in all aspects of plastering

and rendering.For free estimates and a prompt,friendly service please call Henfield

01273 492230

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRSN. Constantine

Repairs to all UPVC and AluminiumWindows, Doors and Conservatories

Misted up & broken sealed units � Locks � Seals � Hinges� Handles � Patio Door Wheels � Catflaps � Letterboxes

No Call-out Charge & No VAT

Tel: 01903 209605 Mob: 07990 516569

N Constantine Feb 10-NS:Layout 1 28/1/10

[email protected]

Plumbing & TilingThe

Company

Office: 01273 649359Mobile: 07958 958013

www.theplumbingandtilingcompany.com

• Domestic Plumbing & Heating

• Bathroom / Wet Room Design & Installation

• Wall & Floor Tiling - Natural Stone Specialist

• Part P Electrical Installation

• Domestic Plumbing & Heating

• Bathroom / Wet Room Design & Installation

• Wall & Floor Tiling - Natural Stone Specialist

• Part P Electrical Installation

beechcroftlandscapes

Richard Blower07808 857 [email protected]

hard & soft landscaping fencing | plantinggarden solutions

D.M.BLOWER & SONGARDEN AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

•Surveys,Planning&Design•Residentialprojects-largeandsmall•DevelopmentofDesignbrief•PlanningApplications&liaisonwithplanningauthorities•BuildingRegulationsApplications•ListedBuildingApplications•PreparationofTenders•AdviceonchoiceofContractor•Sitesupervision•GuidanceonInteriorDesign•Friendly,helpfuladviceSee website for full details

Tel/Fax: (01273) 494779 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rogerminost.co.uk

Chates Studio, Stonepit Lane, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9QT

Jeremy CrawleyHenfield Electrician

01273 49291407968 [email protected]

ELECTRICALCONTRACTORInstallation � Testing �Certification � PATTesting

Jeremy C Feb 10-NS:Layout 1 11/1/10 14:21

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 59

A. STENNINGYOUR LOCAL PLUMBING AND HEATING CONTRACTOR

CENTRAL HEATING SPECIALISTS

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE TEL & FAX: HENFIELD (01273) 49291824 Hour Answerphone

TELEPHONE: MOBILE 07885 [email protected]

PLUMBER Reg No: 33457

Call Paul on: 07926 196110www.aspectsussex.co.uk

l Boilers, bathrooms & boiler repairsl Landlord & Safety Certificates issuedl Boilers supplied & fitted from £1,200

10% DISCOUNT for OAPsQuote BN5

ASPECT PLUMBING & HEATING

PREMIER FENCINGAffordable Fencing & Repairs

NO VATCredit Cards accepted

Call Trevor Allingham on01273 493624 / 0777 5521452

ANDY MASTERSYOUR LOCAL PAINTER & DECORATOR

Providing a complete & professional decorating service in Henfield and the

surrounding villages since 1998

For a free quotation please call Andy on Henfield 01273 492854Mobile 07768 330863

Email [email protected]

For ALL things...

Contact...

check out our new website!aerialsandmore.co.uk

01273 358308

TV!


CARPET FITTINGWe will fit your own carpets

Re-stretching - Repairs - CleaningSupply underlay - Hardboard - Screeding

We supply - carpets, vinyls, laminates and woods

Call Les on: Tel: 01903 743 932Mob: 07966 212 358

www.carpetsandvinylsdirect.co.uk

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 61

RED OAKSCelebrating life through a quality care home

Red Oaks, The Hooks, Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9UY

BEAUTY TREATMENTS AND MASSAGE WERE THE ORDER OF THE DAY AT RED OAKS

For further information please call us on 01273 493043or visit www.barchester.com/redoaks

In early May, eight students and their tutor descended on the home for the first of two groups visiting Henfield for two weeks each.

The students, all studying at Centrum Ksztalcenia Zawodowego i Ustawicznego in Katowice, Poland,were here to further their training and develop skillswith other languages and working with people of the older generation.

Treatments from the four masseurs and four beauty therapists, which included hot stone massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and much more, were available to all the residents and staff. Visitors to the home and relatives were also offered the chance for a little pampering and asked to donate to the Barchester Foundation.At the end of the months visit the second group made a presentation to residents, relatives and staff with gifts of thanks and the hope that further visits may be possible in the future.One of the beauty students, Julia Dziurska, read out the following statement on behalf of the college.“The project “Ad vitam dignam”- building good professional relationships with people at their late adulthood, has just ended. I would like to thank you from all my heart. I also would like to express my gratitude to all of you for your support. My appreciation is also sent to all the staff from Red Oaks Care Home. The project has ended with a great success thanks to you, Jacky. I am grateful for an excellent preparation and organisation of the internships, for the organisation of the transport from Brighton, for your hospitality. It was a great lesson about human kindness that was felt by our students. You gave them the chance to see that late adulthood can be a period of time when people are respectful if they have an appropriate condition of living. Moreover if the staff that they are surrounded by are helpful and reliable it makes them stronger. You showed our students how to love the job they do.If you think that our students were helpful and their treatments made the people’s lives at Red Oaks better, I would like to ask you about a chance of further cooperation next time.”In the time following the students return to Poland, several residents were asking what was “going on today”, “is that young lady going to do my nails?”

JULY 2014 | Health

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 63

The dawning of a new era at Henfield Medical Centre

I sometimes find it hard to believe that I have been a practice nurse at Henfield Medical Centre for nine years: I started in May 2005 and the time has flown

by. I have seen many changes during those nine years, the most noticeable being that of the tremendous in-crease in workload and the subsequent extension of the nurses’ role. An increased demand on General Practice caused by demographic changes, more complex health needs and some care moving out of hospitals are all contributing to unsustainable pressures on the service. GPs are also facing more patient demand from an aging population. NHS England estimates that some 340 million consultations are now under-taken every year – an increase of 40 million since 2008. The needs of the patients visiting their GP prac-tice have also changed. For example in England 15 million people live with a chronic condition (such as asthma and diabetes) and care for these people is be-ing increasingly provided through GP services, rather than in a hospital setting as previously. At Henfield Medical Centre we have been very forward thinking and have implemented various strategies to ensure sufficient provision of care for our patients in the future. In the last 12 months we have had a big drive to promote self-care and management of minor illnesses. The friends of Hen-field Medical Centre organised an evening talk about the concept of managing minor illnesses ourselves, the growing ineffectiveness of antibiot-ics and the vital (but often underused) resource of having a pharmacist at our local chemist.The nurse team as a whole has extended their role and we increasingly take on the responsibilities that in the past were carried out by doctors: Sam Strachan has completed her training so that she can now fit the

contraceptive implant; Kim Poole is coming to the end of her nurse prescribing course at Surrey University; and Tina Wake, Kim and myself provide a daily triage / minor illness clinic working alongside the duty doc-tor. Chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease and diabetes are all now managed by our very experi-enced and capable nurses.Last month Michael Geraghty, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) joined our team working at the surgery. An ANP is a highly experienced and educated member of the care team who is able to diagnose and treat your healthcare needs and refer you to an appropriate specialist if needed. Research into the safety and effectiveness of ANPs has provid-ed overwhelming positive conclusions regarding the both value of the role and the patient satisfaction that arises from ANP care.Michael’s role will be crucial in helping the surgery meet future demands by the release of more GP time for routine appointments. This will result in improved access for patients with more complex healthcare needs to see their named doctor.

Fiona Ordidge, Practice Nurse, Henfield Medical Centre

Business | JUNE 2014

64 | BN5 MAGAZINE See our new website! www.bn5magazine.co.uk

Social Capital

Whereas human capital is a quality of individu-als, social capital is a quality created between people through both offline activities such as

networking events, and online activities, which include social media. Two benefits that are relevant to SMEs flow from social capital: information and influence. This study, undertaken by the Universities of Surrey and Greenwich, builds upon our earlier 2012 survey ‘Success in challenging times: Key lessons for UK SMEs’, drawing on extensive secondary data analysis of government reports, case studies and input from focus groups.Creating and maintaining valuable contacts is para-mount to enable SMEs to support and strengthen their business development objectives. Yet many feel they do not know how to go about it; surprisingly re-search shows that SMEs typically invest less time in creating these networks than larger organisations. SMEs are of course aware of the vast potential ben-efits of having strong networks; indeed, 94% of them consider direct referrals important to their continuing success, and 67% consider search engine optimisa-tion important. It is not only surveys that show this, but it is self-evident that the more quality networks one has, the greater the number of approaches or re-ferrals one receives.The research confirmed that offline and online net-working activities are not mutually exclusive alter-natives for SMEs. Successful SMEs network with a number of different communities, integrating a com-bination of both offline and online methods. SMEs’ websites are crucial and need to be optimised to im-prove search engine positioning. Social media sites, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, are widely used to both showcase the business and build relationships with customers, but are not considered a substitute for face-to-face (offline) networking. The most popular reason for SMEs using social media is to develop their business image or to market prod-ucts. The fast, easy and low cost access to people and businesses provided by Web 2.0 and social me-dia helps them do this better. Online networking can enable SMEs to overcome the drawbacks of tradition-al face-to-face contact, such as limited numbers and diversity, and the associated high costs. SMEs that proactively engage with social media can systemati-

cally raise their profiles to successfully compete with larger organisations. However few SMEs claim to be experts in social me-dia use. IT and social media are regarded as neces-sary evils and SMEs consider that there is no choice but to engage very proactively in these areas. One of the key findings in the research affirmed that SMEs should have a clear strategy towards social capital included in their overall business plan. This is important, not least because of the need to avoid a disproportionate amount of resource being dedicated to this area. Face-to-face (offline) networking events remain the most important form of all types of SME network-ing, with roughly two thirds of SMEs devoting one to six hours per week to this activity. In general, locally oriented SMEs without a scalable business offering prefer face-to-face networking events, whereas glob-ally oriented non-scalable SMEs additionally put sig-nificant effort into social media. Networks included customers, associates and former employees who had moved on to become independent contractors. Networking is about making contacts outside the SME who can offer feedback, or advice, or be used to outsource work. These networks are regarded as a ‘community of people’ who might join in with a new business proposal or be used to provide external ex-pertise. The research concludes that SMEs should have a pol-icy for, and monitor, online and offline social capital based activities. Furthermore, SMEs should seek to achieve a realistic return on their investment.The methods SMEs use to increase social capi-tal must be fit for purpose and appropriate to their business model. Social media are complementary to, rather than a substitute for, traditional networking and events. The challenge facing SMEs is how best to integrate their online and offline activities to com-plement their business and generate social capital. Copies of the report are available at www.ks.co.uk/smesocialcapitalPaul SamrahFor further advice on this or other business issues, contact Paul Samrah on 01737 781546 or email [email protected]

‘Generating Social Capital’ is the title of a new report for SMEs published by Kingston Smith LLP, chartered accountants and leading advisers to entrepreneurial businesses.

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 65

Index of advertisers | JULY 2014

66 | Find local businesses super fast... www.bn5magazine.co.uk 01273 494002

ACCOUNTANCY, TAX & BOOKKEEPINGA&B Matters 04The Accountancy Practice 49Kingston Smith LLP 65Parr & Company 15R J Dewdney 63 ARCHITECTRoger Minost Architect 58BED & BREAKFAST & ACCOMMODATIONNumber One The Laurels 50BUILDERS & CARPENTRYHenfield Homes & Property Maintenance 57Optimal Property Maintenance 55NIgel Parsons 55Trim Construction 55Willow Construction 54CARECherish Care 43Red Oaks Care Home 61Upper Mead 67CAMPER VAN HIREMolly the Camper Van 13CARPET SUPPLY & CAREB&I Carpets 56Carpet Fitting Les Sheeran 60Selectacarpet 45CATERING & FARM SHOPS Pannisa Coffee Shop 28The Pizza Oven 09Rushfields Farm Shop 02, 03Springs Smoked Salmon 10Swains Farm Shop 19taste...deli 10CLEANING & CARPET CLEANINGBen Daniels Carpet Cleaning 28Maids of Sterner Stuff 19Sussex Oven Cleaning 57COMPUTER REPAIR & IT SUPPORTHenfield Helpline 51PC Doctor 65CONSERVATORIESThe Conservatory Co. 48Countryman Improvements 44DENTAL SERVICESThe Mallards 41DOG WALKING AND PET SITTINGCanine Adventures 51DOUBLE GLAZINGBHW Glass 60Countryman Improvements 44N. Constantine Repairs 58DRIVING LESSONSDrivewell 21ELECTRICAL SERVICESBurt Electrical 57Jeremy Crawley Electrician 58Paul Barnard 58Paul McDermott 54FENCING & GATESThe Henfield Fencing Co 17Premier Fencing 59FINANCIAL PLANNING / MORTGAGESKingston Smith LLP 65

Nsure 62FLY FISHING SUPPLIESFlydressing 20GARAGES Boretech Engineering 32Braziers Autos 66Coles Automotive 25The Forge Garage 32Mile Oak Servicing 57Setyres 68GARDENERS, GARDENS & NURSERIESBeechcroft Landscapes 58Hamfelds 32JD Mowing 49Martin Standing 50The Green Reaper 55Rooted 55Rushfields 02, 03Sue McLaughlin Garden Design 16Sussex Prairies 27S. Goodridge 50GIFTS, BOOKS, JEWELLERY & ARTKatherine Lawrie 43Lorimer Photography 32Lyn Bedford-White 13Miss Potts Pottery Painting 17Shoreham Gallery 09Steyning Bookshop 41GROUNDWORKSB Muzeen Groundworks 48HAIR & BEAUTYBarbara Dickson Beauty Therapist 14Brown’s Barbers 24The Beauty Room at Blackstone 12Hair and Co 38Hyatt’s Hair 29Louisa Jayne Partridge Green 43Natasha 33Pinks Hairdressing 33HANDYMAN SERVICES Optimal Property Services 55Henfield Homes and Property Maintenance 57Just Gutters 50HARDWARE & DIYHamfelds 32HEALTH & COMPLEMENTARY HEALTHDB Foot Clinic 39Emotional Freedom Techniques 43Henfield Chiropractic Clinic 40Henfield Physiotherapy 43Henfield Podiatry Clinic 40 Paul Dean Psychic and Healing 12Sussex Osteopath & CHC 42INSURANCENsure 62INTERIORS, FURNITURE & CURTAINSBarbara Ritchie 56Simply Blinding Ltd 04LEISURE & COMMUNITYThe Henfield Hall 60West Sussex County Council 37LETTING AGENTSBeacon Lettings 48LOCKSMITHSLucy Locksmith 48

MACHINERY & PLANT HIREKing and Stevens 45OPTICIANHenfield Eye Care 34, 35PAINTING & DECORATINGAndy Masters 59Ladies who Decorate 50Mick Patching 48Trim Decorating 48PEST CONTROLACT Pest Control 49Mr Wasp (Gogga Pest Control) 50PLASTERERAdrian Over 58PLUMBERA. Stenning 59Aspect Plumbing & Heating 59Aquatec 56CJ Plumbing 48MC Services 57The Plumbing and Tiling Company 58PST Plumbing 60PUBS & RESTAURANTSThe Cat and Canary 18The Plough 10The Shepherd & Dog 06The Steyning Tearooms 30, 31ROOFING & ROOF MAINTENANCEGRP Flat Roofing 54SCHOOLS, NURSERIES, ACTIVITIES Busy Bees 11The Dove Nursery 41Oscar Bears Day Care 41The Towers Convent School 47SCRAP METALColeman & Son 14SOLICITORSAmanda Shaw 65Griffith Smith Farrington Webb 44

STORAGE SOLUTIONSContain Yourself Storage 50SWIMMING LESSONSMXT Swim 28TAXI & CHAUFFEUR SERVICESHenfield Village Cars 56Personal Car Service 50TELEVISION AND AUDIOAerials and More 59

TILING SERVICESThe Plumbing and Tiling Company 58TREE SURGERYThe Green Reaper 55Jonathan Carter Trees 55Southern Beeches 54The Tree Works 54VETERINARY SURGERIESHawthorn Surgeries 51WASHING MACHINE REPAIRSWe Mend Washing Machines 56WEIGHT LOSS & HEALTHSlimming World 33

01273 492059

THE STEAM MILL LOWER STATION ROADHENFIELD BN5 9UQ

• WELDING REPAIRS• VEHICLE SERVICING• BATTERIES• TYRES & EXHAUSTS• DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE • COURTESY CAR *SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

MOT TESTING CENTRE

BRAZIERSGarage Henfield

01273 494002 BN5 MAGAZINE | 67

bn5 magazine july 2014

Documents

henfield scout group

issue of bn5 magazine

scout hut

garden furniture

summer feast

edge of henfield

outside space

award winning wines