Issuu

January 2026

AAH JANUARY 2026 COVER STORY Our January 2026 cover features Joseph and Megan Landreth-Smith and Naomi and Tom Partridge at Holos, a kombucha company on the Wiston Estate in Washington. We visited Holos back in October, but held the feature back for a couple of months as it had cover story potential. Therefore, there’s an autumnal feel to the photo, as the business is based within the South Downs National Park. We wanted to take a shot of both couples together, as they all play an important role in Holos. As well as making kombucha, they have founded a charitable arm to the business, helping survivors of trauma and exploitation, so the product itself wasn’t vital to the photo. Although coincidental (Naomi and Megan were busy running their children around), the earthy tones of their clothing nicely complemented the countryside setting too. Other cover contenders included Marcio Da Silva, MD of Billingshurst Choral Society, Joe Beckett, Rebecca Dancer and their dog Leon at Kinsbrook Vineyard, and Kimberley Voice, vocalist of local rock band Rogue Awakening.

ABOUT US NEWS ROUND-UP

Images of new Mowbray Employment Park and Spike’s Sight Games win award.

MY STORY

Crawford Butler of Horsham lived at the Tower of London as a Beefeater.

HEALTH

Horsham Sports Injury Clinic has expanded by offering Pilates exercises.

FOOD & DRINK

BUSINESS

Holos is a family-run business selling a range of organic kombucha drinks.

ADVERTISING As a free magazine, AAH is grateful to the support of all its advertisers. If you’d like to find out more about promoting your business in AAH, please contact Ben (preferably email). We offer every 6th advert free, like a cafe. We also design adverts for free, if you need help! ADVERT RATES (PER MONTH/EDITION) EIGHTH PAGE: £60 + VAT QUARTER PAGE: £115 + VAT HALF PAGE: £195 + VAT FULL PAGE: £340 + VAT DOUBLE PAGE: £575 + VAT EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Ben Morris editor@aahorsham.co.uk advertising@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT FEBRUARY 2026 AAH MAGAZINE The next edition will be online on Sunday 1 February at www.aahorsham.co.uk with printed copies out on Monday 2 February. 4 CONTENTS

MOTORSPORT

After years of supporting her husband, Claire Padmore enjoys the thrill of racing.

MUSIC

Horsham-based band Rogue Awakening headline night of heavy rock in town.

GROUPS

Billingshurst Choral Society progress under the direction of Marcio Da Silva.

Photographer: ALAN WRIGHT alanwrightphotography.co.uk 07747 617387 Alan works for AAH on a freelance basis and can be booked for all kinds of commercial work.

DISTRIBUTION We deliver directly to 5,500 homes in the Horsham District with a further 6,500 placed in our bespoke, spring-loaded stands.

Kinsbrook in Thakeham looks to the future after opening its own winery.

AAH is an independent magazine founded in 2011. It is owned by Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. Editor: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT

FINAL WORD

Trudie Mitchell highlights the need for a safer passage to Horsham Park.

DOOR-TO-DOOR: Delivery team: Jacquie Paterson, Tom Thorne, Oliver Matson, Charlie Merchant, Jill Shuker, Alec Baker, Walker family, Ben Raymond, Ellis Raymond, Browning family, Katie Drysdale, Palmer family, Butcher family, Jackie Fisher, Samuel Dales. AAH STANDS Horsham: Swan Walk x 2 (M&S and D&D Cafe), Henry Adams, At Home Estate Agents, Crates Local (all in the Carfax), Gwyn’s Bakery, Johansson’s Cafe (Bishopric), Jones & Tomlin Horsham (Medwin Walk), John Lewis, Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, Horsham FC, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, Holbrook Club, Steban’s Salon, Village Stands: Newbridge Nurseries, The Bridge (BBH) CoCos’ Salon & Beeson House (Southwater), Billingshurst Leisure Centre & Coco’s Salon (Billingshurst), Bluecoat Sports Centre (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores, Slinfold Golf Club, Mannings Heath Golf Club, The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Meadow Stores (Thakeham), Kinsbrook Vineyards (West Chiltington) Golden Plaice (Ashington), Rusper Village Stores, Roffey News, Roffey Park, The Bakery (Partridge Green), Henfield Leisure Centre, Steyning Leisure Centre, Cobblestone Walk (Steyning), Spring Gardens (Washington), Chanctonbury Leisure Centre, Joanna’s Tearooms (Storrington), Knepp Wilding Kitchen & Shop (Dial Post), The Clubhouse (Kilnwood Vale), Fishers Farm (Wisborough Green). Supermarkets: AAH is available at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath & Sainsbury’s Horsham, through Self Select Distribution. Notes: We have temporarily removed the AAH stand at Johansson’s Cafe, owing to a broken lid. It will return once a replacement arrives.

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Nursery & Reception Open Morning, Wednesday 25th February 2026 Whole School Open Morning, Saturday 7th March 2026 At Farlington, we believe in helping every student reach further – in learning, in conﬁdence, in life. As Horsham’s only co-educational independent school and nursery for ages 6 months to 18 years, we inspire bright futures with our unique environment, excellent teaching and strong values. Come and see how we nurture individuality and opportunity whilst building a supportive community.

Scan the QR code or visit www.farlingtonschool.com to register for our Open Mornings.

WSCC has urged the Government to make all primary schools smartphone-free, following concerns raised by councillors about the impact of social media and phone use on children’s emotional health, wellbeing and learning. The council intends to write to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP after a notice of motion was passed during a Full Council meeting on 12 December. The motion, proposed by Cllr John Dabell, builds on discussions from a meeting in March, when members spoke about the harmful influence of online content and the importance of positive role models for young people.

©Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

West Sussex County Council has upgraded traffic signals with LED technology. Across the county, 94 traffic signal sites have new signal heads, push-button units, vehicle and pedestrian detectors, advanced controller systems, traffic signal poles and cabling to support LED technology. The upgrade became necessary as outdated halogen bulbs are no longer made, but it will result in a safer, more sustainable transport network in West Sussex. LED lights use 84% less energy than halogen bulbs, saving the council an estimated £594,000 in operating and maintenance costs. The County Council also used the opportunity provided by the £6.4m programme to upgrade pedestrian crossings with new puffin crossing detectors.

A refurbishment project begins at The Capitol following the conclusion of another successful pantomime season on 4 January. The Capitol was last refurbished in 2002, and Horsham District Council will be transforming the theatre and cinema once again. The refurbishment will significantly enhance the customer experience, with improvements across the theatre, cinema screens, seating, auditorium spaces, bar and public areas to create a modern, welcoming environment. The toilets will be refreshed with more facilities for women, as there are often long queues at

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8 NEWS ROUND-UP

www.horsham.gov.uk/recycling

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Or recycle from home by booking a small electricals collection for vapes and using our roadside collection for batteries:

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Recycle your batteries and disposable vapes safely at our collection points located in: • The Pavilions In The Park, Horsham • Chanctonbury Leisure Centre, Storrington

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intervals. There will be significant changes for disabled people too, with a Changing Places facility created and new seating arrangements to give them better viewing. Behind the scenes, plumbing and heating systems will be updated, with a new boiler installed. It comes after a wonderful festive pantomime, with a talented cast giving West-End quality performances to bring Robin Hood to life. The Capitol will re-open for the 2026 festive production of Dick Whittington, with tickets now on sale. For progress updates, visit: thecapitolhorsham.com/the-capitol-refurb

Sophie Bradley (©AAH/Alan Wright 2025)

Spike’s Sight Words won the ‘New Start-Up Business of the Year’ award at the Education Today Awards ceremony in December. The award recognises the impact and rapid growth Spike’s Sight Words has achieved since its launch, commending its blending of fun, hands-on gameplay with educational principles to make learning sight words effective and fun for children. Sophie Bradley, CEO of Spike’s Sight Words, said: ‘This recognition is a testament to our hard work and validates our mission: to transform early literacy education through innovative, non-digital, engaging games. This fuels our drive to continue expanding our range of physical learning products.’ spikessightwords.com

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Restaurant Interlude at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, Lower Beeding, was awarded Hotel Restaurant Team of the Year at The Hotel Cateys 2025. Led by executive chef Jean Delport and manager Anya Vorster, Restaurant Interlude offers a tasting menu inspired by the 240-acre estate. Ingredients are foraged, grown or sourced locally, while wines from the adjoining vineyards continue to gain critical acclaim. This is the latest milestone achieved by Interlude, including retaining its Michelin Star, a 4 AA rosette award and winning AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year. restaurant-interlude.co.uk AJW Group, a leading aviation company in Slinfold, has committed to continue its support for The Cosy Café, a popular community space in the village, in 2026. The Cosy Café is a pop-up held in the Village Hall on Wednesdays at 1 – 5pm. It offers a safe, friendly place for individuals and families to share conversation and enjoy a hot meal. AJW Group donates more than 2,000 meals a year, all freshly prepared in The Galley, AJW’s in-house restaurant, and delivered by rotating teams of employee volunteers. ajw-group.com Coolham-based firm Waterstream won 16 accolades at the UK Pool & Spa Awards 2025. Waterstream’s awards include ‘One Piece Pool Project of the Year’ for a training pool built in Hampshire and ‘Swim Spa Project of the Year’ for a garden project in London. Known for its bespoke installations and exclusive distribution partnership with Compass Pools, Waterstream also received recognition for two decades of excellence and its long-standing contribution to the industry. waterstream.co.uk

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WEST GRINSTEAD SWIM ACADEMY’S NATIONAL SUCCESS West Grinstead Swimming Academy (located just South of Horsham) has been awarded the prestigious Swim School of the Year Award 2025 by Swim England, the country’s national governing body for swimming. This is the highest accolade a swim school can receive. This marks the third year they have been finalists since opening in 2023, winning Bronze in 2024 and Silver in 2023. This in itself is an outstanding achievement, as it makes them the only swim school to make the finals in three consecutive years. From the thousands of swim schools across the country that follow the Swim England pathway, WGSA were chosen as winners for their innovative approach to lessons and their high quality teaching. Swim England said: ‘Swimming skills at West Grinstead Swimming Academy have improved dramatically for certain young learners, with transformations from nervous beginners to confident, capable swimmers. This progress reflects the dedication, expertise and encouragement of the teachers, whose support fosters both confidence and a love for swimming. Their patience and guidance turn fear into enjoyment, making every lesson a positive experience. Today, children swim with ease and assurance, showcasing the teachers’ exceptional ability to nurture skill and self-belief in every swimmer.” Nick Isaacson and Vikki Heal, who run the Academy, travelled to the award ceremony in Birmingham on 29 November along with one of their amazing teachers, Carley Thomas, to receive their award. The awards were a fantastic celebration of the best in Aquatics across the country and they celebrated alongside Olympians and hall of fame inductees. ‘After winning Bronze and Silver in previous years, we are over the moon to finally get Gold,’ said Nick Isaacson. ‘We work so hard to make our swim school the very best, not just locally, but on a national stage. So, to get this recognised by top industry experts means everything to us.’

Vikki Heal said: ‘The award highlights our commitment to water safety, quality instruction and community involvement. Over the past three years, we have taught more than 1,000 babies, children and adults to swim confidently and safely. Our instructors are passionate about helping families feel comfortable around water - something that is so important to so many in our community. We all absolutely love what we do and that shows in the lessons our team delivers to our members.’

KEEP IT CLEAN As well as their high quality teaching, WGSA are also known for their modern, immaculately clean facilities. The pool was opened 2020 by husband and wife Vikki and Victor Heal and has been designed to be an optimal environment for children to learn to swim. The 10-metre pool has a constant depth of 1.2 metres with a fully-automated dosing system controlling chlorine and PH levels, ensuring a complete water turnover every 60 minutes. The pool is heated to a toasty 32 degrees, perfect for training and for keeping little ones warm during their lessons. WGSA has over 600 swimmers throughout the week, from newborns, advanced swimmers, and adult classes with experienced teachers. Lessons are comprehensive and tailored to individuals needs and abilities. There are dedicated male and female changing rooms, with WC and shower facilities, and spacious baby changing facilities. Exclusive parking is available on site too.

Baby and Pre-school lessons are carried out with a child-led approach and follow the Swim England Ducklings Programme. After school lessons are also held throughout the week and at weekends and follow the Swim England Learn to swim programme 1-7. In addition to this, WGSA also offer their own badges and awards to recognise progression. WGSA also carries out lots of charity work, including partnering with Level Water to offer children with physical disabilities discounted lessons. Vikki and Nick are also passionate about the fundraising they are doing for a charity called Watoto to renovate two pools in Uganda which support orphaned children who have come from unimaginable circumstances. Group lessons are £15 per lesson and Baby and Preschool Lessons are £16 per lesson during the week and £17 at the weekend. WGSA offers free trials to all new swimmers which are available to book online. To find out more on this swim school head to: wgsa.co.uk

WGSA, 122 North Lodge, Cowfold Road, West Grinstead, RH13 8LU Email: wgswimmingacademy@gmail.com Tel: 01403 470195

www.wgsa.co.uk

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Amberley Museum has made significant progress in its efforts to restore one of its most treasured railway locomotives. Volunteers have recently applied three coats of a distinctive bright yellow livery to Polar Bear, one of the museum’s popular narrow-gauge locomotives. Matt Sampford’s dedication has driven the project forward, and he has been assisted by fellow volunteers John Stanton, Ian Howlett and Phil Barnes. Surrey Industrial History Group (SIHG) has also presented an award acknowledging the cosmetic restoration of Townsend Hook, a project completed nearly a decade ago by Museum volunteers. amberleymuseum.co.uk

Local artist Piers Ottey will hold an exhibition of his work at Champs Hill, Coldwaltham, RH20 1LY on Tuesday to Thursday 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26 March, 11am – 4pm. The exhibition called Confronting Illusion, features paintings by Sussex-based Piers Ottey whose works are instantly recognisable for his trademark ‘colour code’ around the edge of paintings, drawing marks and overpainting in t seemingly simple works. From his studio on the edge of the South Downs, Piers paints the local landscape, as well as scenes from travels abroad and even his motorbikes. An ‘In Conversation with the Artist’ event is held on Tuesday 24 February, 7pm. Suggested donation £10 per ticket from thebct.org.uk

The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch will be held on Friday 23 – Sunday 25 January. The citizen science project provides a snapshot of how a variety of garden birds are faring. Last year, over 590,000 people contributed nationally. Tony Whitbread, President of Sussex Wildlife Trust, said: ‘We know from the Big Garden Birdwatch that – as with most things in nature – the picture is not good. Long-tailed tits and great tits are on the increase, but the situation for other familiar birds, such as song thrushes, house sparrows and greenfinches, isn’t so rosy. The Birdwatch is also a chance to think about how we manage our gardens to help birds and

nature in general. Complex mixtures of plants, shrubs and trees, fuzzy edges, layers of vegetation, ponds, small piles of dead wood and wild patches mimic wild environments, providing homes, food and water for birds, insects and all wildlife.’ l Sussex Green Living deliver environmental education in schools and will hold a wildlife workshop where children can make bird boxes at the Sussex Green Hub, United Reformed Church, 45 Springfield Road, Horsham, on Saturday 31 January. Booking required. Email Carrie at cort@sussexgreenliving.org.uk For more on Birdwatch, visit: rspb.org.uk

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The White Bridge Link was officially opened on Friday 21 November. The bridge, which spans across the River Adur, links the communities of Steyning, Bramber and Upper Beeding. The former footbridge, just north of Bramber Bridge, was closed after a safety inspection by West Sussex County Council. The opening of the new “White Bridge” was attended by Roger Potter, Chair of the working party formed in 2022 under the auspices of the Steyning & District Community Partnership. Accompanying him for the ribbon-cutting was Jo Dennis, representing WSCC, which contributed significantly to the £1million project. Representatives from other funders were also present, including the Wilson Memorial Trust, South Downs National Park and Horsham District Council (Rural England Prosperity Fund). The White Bridge – which is actually green but retains its old name for now – was blessed by the Reverend Diane Marchment, Father Mark Heather and Deacon Simon Wright. Horsham Lions will hold their annual Swimarathon at The Pavilions in the Park, Horsham, on Sunday 22 March. Teams of six can enter and swim in a relay for 55 minutes. This is a great opportunity to raise funds for your club, school or organisation. Entry is free. For details and an application form, email david@trowbridge.me.uk St Catherine’s Hospice is bringing back its Firewalk for the first time since 2020 and seeks fundraisers to face the flames. The Firewalk at Crawley Town Football Club, sees participants walk barefoot across red-hot embers in aid of St Catherine’s. UK Firewalk will be on-hand to teach participants the secrets of firewalking. No experience needed, just courage and determination. Sign up before 27 January for a discounted rate of £20. stch.org.uk/sign-up-to-firewalk-2026/

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MADISON & LINDA AT THE PULBREW (©AAH/AW)

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FESTIVE WINDOW WINNERS REVEALED

More than 2400 votes were cast in the Christmas Magic Displays Competition, organised by Horsham District Council.

The competition was part of the Council’s ‘Buy Local Gift Happy’ campaign to support the local economy, and attracted entries from over 70 businesses and charities across the District. Many shared photos of their festive displays on social media in an effort to secure votes from loyal customers.

Beginners to advanced level All Welcome JANE SHARP DipABRSM (01403) 823994 jane@janefleurpianotuition.co.uk www.janefleurpianotuition.co.uk 16 CHRISTMAS WINDOWS

These votes determined three ‘Public’s Choice’ winners, with The Butterfly Project in Springfield Road, Horsham, winning the Window Display award. When AAH visited the Butterfly Project – a dynamic health and social care provider – the team were busy chopping potatoes and vegetables in preparation for their annual Christmas lunch at Trafalgar Road Baptist Church. Volunteer Jo Harwood said: ‘We love creating a window display at Christmas,

but have never won this competition before. This year, we talked about various themes and colours for the display, and one idea was to have a television as a focal point, with everyone’s face on the screen. We wanted to capture the cosiness of a living room at Christmas, as it fits with the family feel of the Butterfly Project. Many wore something festive when posing for their photo, which we then stuck all over the cardboard television in the window.’

INTERIOR DESIGNERS The Public’s Choice Charity Display award went to The Mary How Trust Charity Shop in Pulborough. The Trust was founded in 1988 to offer vital screening services, detecting the early signs of bowel cancer and many other life-threatening illnesses such as prostate and kidney cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Since 1998, the shop has helped to raise funds,

CHRIS & DAN AT BUTTERFLY PROJECT (©AAH/AW)

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with many people who have benefited from its screenings making donations. The staff and volunteers regularly create new window displays to complement the season, but for Christmas, shop manager Kerry Hall was even more ambitious than usual. Kerry said: ‘I had the idea of replicating a traditional Christmas market, so designed Ye Olde Mary Christmas Market Stall. My initial concept was underwhelming, at least when compared to the size of the mannequins in the window! So, I had to make it bigger, before adorning it with Christmas decorations, wreaths and lanterns. Lots of people have commented on the display and it has helped add some festive cheer to the High Street.’ The Public’s Choice Internal Display award went to the charity shop’s neighbours at The Pulbrew. Linda Handover and daughter Madison Portwine have run the café since 2024, turning it into popular community hub. The Pulbrew

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MARY HOW TRUST SHOP (©AAH/AW) hosts a monthly Book Club that regularly attracts 20 people, while a new vinyl record club called Vinyl Frontier is set to launch in February. The staff decorate the cafe at Easter, Halloween and other occasions too, and went all out for Christmas.

‘We cut up old Christmas trees to make festive decorations and wreaths for The Pulbrew.’

Linda said: ‘There’s only so much we can do with the window display, as the pavement outside is very narrow and even garlands on the door edge people closer to the kerbside. So, we make it very festive inside the café instead. All our decorations were made from old Christmas trees, which we cut up to make smaller decorative displays and wreaths, before adding baubles and other festive ornaments bought from charity shops. Our customers appreciate the effort and naturally, we always hand them a voting form!’

Your Horsham (Horsham Business Improvement District) sponsored three awards for town centre businesses, with Sloan Eyecare winning 1st prize, with Carmela Deli and Amici Coffee Co – both great supporters of the competition – runners-up. Public Choice awards were given to winning displays in other towns and villages in the District too. These included Rocking Horse (Billingshurst), Jasmine’s (Henfield), The Children’s Society (Southwater), The Little Sweet Shop (Steyning), Stitch (Storrington) and Tottington Manor in Henfield (Off-High-Street Display).

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A new award for the Most Sustainable Display was introduced too, judged by Kinder Living, a local CIC which supports sustainable local businesses. This was awarded to Revival Dry Cleaners in Southwater for designing a display with sustainability in mind. Using off-cuts of fabric in garlands, their display created an important narrative around waste textiles. HDC Chairman Cllr Tony Bevis said: ‘With more businesses entering than ever and more voters than ever before, this was a bumper year for the Christmas Magic Displays Competition. Thanks to all for your overwhelming response and thanks also to the many businesses who took part; you really pulled out all the stops to make our District a special place to be.’ horsham.gov.uk/business/buylocal WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright

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BUTLER SERVICE LIFE AS A BEEFEATER AT THE TOWER OF LONDON

MY STORY SO FAR: CRAWFORD BUTLER Crawford served in the Army for two decades before spending 28 years as a Beefeater, living at the Tower of London. Today, he lives in Horsham with wife Linda and continues to raise funds for the Royal British Legion. He tells his story to AAH… I was born in Dunfermline, Fife in 1949. My father Henry fought throughout the Second World War with Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment). He served in Europe before the evacuation at Dunkirk, then in the North Africa Campaign. He was captured at Monte Cassino and imprisoned in Rome until he was liberated by American troops. He continued to fight as the Allies pushed towards Germany, before returning home to my mother, who had worked in a munitions factory. I was the second of four children and was an active boy, always playing sports. I left school with five O-levels. My father didn’t want me to follow him down the mines, so I joined the Army at the age of 15. I wanted to join the Royal Scots Greys - a tank regiment – but as I had good grades was instead sent to the Army Foundation College at Harrogate to train as a radio technician. It wasn’t for me, but luckily an officer from the 10th Royal Hussars invited me to join the cavalry.

I was stationed in Munster, Germany in 1969 as part of the British Forces on the Rhine, only months before the 10th Hussars amalgamated with the 11th to become the Royal Hussars. We operated tanks and other armoured vehicles on reconnaissance operations. During the Cold War, there was a lot of international tension, so we had to remain alert and be prepared for any Russian advancement. During this time, the best thing that happened to me was meeting my wife, Linda. There was an Army disco every Friday night in Warminster, close to our Tidworth Camp. Lyn was visiting her sister at the time, who was married to a soldier based at Warminster. I married Linda and we’ve been together for 53 years with two daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. As well as serving in Germany, the Royal Hussars rotated duties with other regiments elsewhere. So, I carried out reconnaissance

operations with the UN in Cyprus and did three tours in Northern Ireland, where we trained as infantry. I also served at Long Kesh near Lisburn, an internment camp for IRA prisoners, which was burned down in 1974. Having joined the regiment as a tank driver, I was promoted to Lance Corporal and then Corporal, when I commanded the tank. I then spent two years in Army recruitment, before returning to the Royal Hussars as Troop Sergeant. Later, I was posted to the Royal Wessex Yeomanry in Stroud as a Permanent Staff Instructor, training the Territorial Army. Eventually, I was promoted to the role of Sergeant Major. I never fired in anger, but was fired at during the Troubles. One time, we had parked near an old woollen mill in Belfast and as we crossed a courtyard, bullets started hitting the ground around us, fired by a sniper in a church steeple. Fortunately, we were able to reach safety. Another time, I was commanding a ferret – a lightly armoured, two-man vehicle. We were MY STORY 21

shot at during patrols in Belfast, but the bullets ricocheted off the armour. On a third occasion, we had been notified about a bomb in a busy street and assisted police in clearing the area. I was talking to a policeman in a shop entrance when the bomb exploded. Although we escaped injury, the force of the blast still knocked us off our feet. Some regiments, such as Royal Engineers, recruit from all over the country. The Royal Hussars are traditionally a family regiment, with most recruits coming from Hampshire, Wiltshire and surrounding areas. Most people in the regiment have something in common. Although I came from Scotland, I embraced the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that builds during Army service and which lasts a lifetime. After service, the Army tries to find you further work. I had offers to work as a recruitment officer in Banbury, and also passed exams to become a prison warden. However, the clerk presented me with another option, working at the Tower of London. There are only 42 Beefeaters, so opportunities don’t come up often. To qualify, you need 22 years of military service, to have reached a rank of Warrant Officer, and to have also received long service and good conduct medals. Three others from my regiment were already Beefeaters, which was fantastic as they could provide me with references. This was the job for me!

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CRAWFORD WAS A YEOMAN SERGEANT (©AAH/AW)

“The keys.” The guard (or Sentry) would then ask, “Who’s keys?” and I’d reply, “Queen Elizabeth’s keys” Now, of course, it would be “King Charles’ keys”. The guard then said, “Pass Queen Elizabeth’s keys. All’s well.” The Chief Warder then proceeded to the Broad Steps and proclaims, “God preserve Queen Elizabeth.” The guards shout “Amen” before The Last Post is sounded at 10pm.

‘The red and gold uniform most associated with Beefeaters is only worn on Royal occasions.’

You have to book months in advance to watch the Ceremony, as the Tower only accommodates about 50 people a night. There is a pub inside too, called The Keys. Linda often prepared buffet food for visitors and Beefeaters take it in turns to work at the bar. We sometimes ran private tours, which is how I met celebrities and dignitaries. I remember Jackie Chan, as he could hardly speak any English and hadn’t even heard of Henry VIII. I also met American comedian Jerry Lewis and actors such as Ben Stiller, Tom Hardy and Mike Myers.

People often assume that Beefeaters protect the Crown Jewels, but that isn’t true. They are guarded by the Jewel House Wardens. However, Beefeaters do participate in Royal parades and I escorted Princess Anne many times and Queen Elizabeth II on several occasions. We have two uniforms: the blue and red outfit is day-to-day wear, while the red and gold uniform that you see on Beefeater Gin is only worn on Royal occasions. The red coat alone costs about £5000. I supported Queen Elizabeth

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Linda joined me for my interview in 1989, but she wasn’t keen initially, as it meant relocating to the Tower of London. We moved into a small house in the outer wall, before moving to the inner wall. The Tower of London isn’t one tower but 20, with six in the outer wall, 13 on the inner wall and one in the centre. We lived in the Devereux Tower, named after a former Earl of Essex who was imprisoned there before he was beheaded for treason by Queen Elizabeth I. The Yeomen Warders of His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London – popularly known as Beefeaters – are custodians of the Tower. They are on duty day and night. In my time, there were eight positions around the Tower that we guarded, rotating every hour. You need a certain mentality to do that and also to handle the public. The vast majority of people are respectful, but you get the odd one who goes too far, or says things like, “Hello, Mr Beefburger,” which they alone find amusing. But you can enjoy pleasant exchanges, especially with children. Our most famous duty is the Ceremony of the Keys, which involves three Yeomans. That’s the traditional locking up of the Tower. It’s carried out daily, in conjunction with the Tower guards, who also maintain a constant presence. The routine begins at 9:53pm, when the Chief Yeoman Warder walks to Traitors’ Gate. He is met by a guard, who points a bayonet and says, “Halt! Who comes there?” If I was on duty, I’d reply,

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II at Hampton Court Palace once, where dignitaries gathered to meet her. As she was escorted in, she said, “I want to have a word with my boys!” and walked over to talk to us. I worked overseas to promote UK Tourism too, and this took me all over Europe, as well as America and Australia. I attended a trade fair in Barcelona, which King Juan Carlos attended. All the tourism chiefs had lined up to greet him, while I stood to one side in my Beefeater uniform. When the King walked on to the stage, he surprised everyone by approaching me. He asked me what I thought of the city and to send his regards to his cousin, The Queen! In 2014, artists Paul Cummins and Tom Piper came up with a concept to commemorate British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the First World War. They created Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, featuring 888,246 ceramic poppies. I was chosen to plant the first one. I joked that it’s because I was the best-looking Beefeater, but I think it’s because I had the best beard! I was also photographed for tourism adverts placed at Heathrow Airport and on the London Underground. I was a Beefeater for 26 years, eventually serving as Yeoman Sergeant before retiring in 2015. I received the Royal Victorian Medal, awarded for 20 years’ service. As we had always lived in tied accommodation, we had never owned a property, which is how we came to be in Horsham. Shortly after moving to the Tower, a fellow Yeoman was approaching his retirement. He had looked after several groups from Horsham who organised annual trips to

ROYAL HONOURS FROM THE QUEEN

CRAWFORD LAYS THE FIRST POPPY

CRAWFORD (RIGHT) IN THE ARMY

the Ceremony of the Keys, including the local branch of the Royal British Legion. I took on his duties and when it came to my own retirement, a friend from the RBL helped us to find a nice flat in Horsham.

When I lived at the Tower, I would see London cabbies stop at 11am, step out their taxi and observe the silence on Remembrance Sunday. However, this year’s service was the best I‘ve ever seen. The Carfax was packed, with many young people from local cadet forces attending too. It was wonderful to see and I think one of the better reflections of society today.

I remain active in the RBL, serving as Treasurer for eight years. We help organise events such as Armed Forces Day and are involved in Remembrance services at the Carfax War Memorial. Linda and I spent two weeks selling poppies at Waitrose this year, helping the branch collectively raise about £60,000. We are also members of the National Trust and visit gardens such as Nymans as often as possible.

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: For more on the Horsham branch of the RBL, visit: branches.britishlegion.org.uk

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26 PROPERTY

LIFE REFORMED

HORSHAM SPORTS INJURY CLINIC INTRODUCES PILATES

CHERYL BIRD (NÉE PROBIN), DIRECTOR OF HORSHAM SPORTS INJURY CLINIC (©AAH/AW) Horsham Sports Injury Clinic was established in 2014 from a small room at a golf club. Today, a team of therapists help 500 patients a month at a two-storey unit, with Pilates classes complementing its musculoskeletal treatments. AAH met Clinic Director Cheryl Bird (née Probin) find out more…

ELITE EXPERIENCE

FALL INTO PLACE

Cheryl said: ‘I learnt a huge amount, as the Australians are very forward-thinking in terms of how they treat patients. Working in industry is invaluable and I learned more in one year than I did during three years of university studies, as you gain real-life experience and learn directly from a variety of therapists. After university, I worked for Wasps RFC, where I was exposed to the full array of injuries sustained by rugby players. In the front row, they are exposed to huge forces which contribute to neck and shoulder pain, while wingers may be more prone to sprains and strains.

Horse riding has been a life-long passion for former Millais pupil Cheryl, who enjoyed Eventing while growing up in Southwater. Yet it was an injury that set her on course to become a sports therapist. Cheryl recalls: ‘During a cross-country event, I was thrown from the saddle and taken immediately to hospital. I was placed on a spinal board and the initial fear was that I would be paralysed, but fortunately I escaped with lumbar disc herniation and torn muscles. I remember medical staff warning me there was a chance I’d never ride again, and that had a huge impact on me as a 16-year-old.

During a four-years Sports Therapy degree, Cheryl spent a placement year at a leading physiotherapy clinic in Perth, Australia, which had a reputation for treating professional athletes, including members of the national cricket team.

‘I was determined to do everything I could to ensure that wasn’t my future. I found the recovery difficult though, and it was only when my parents sent me to a physiotherapist and osteopath that I truly engaged. I didn’t improve overnight – it was a long process that required lots of hard work – and I still need to manage my body carefully. However, without that support, I would be in a much worse position today. These experiences inspired me to embark on a career in sports therapy and also help me to understand some of what my own patients are going through.’

‘I loved working in elite sport, but you have to commit yourself fully to the job and be available seven days a week. I still loved riding, HEALTH 29

NICOLA DEANS HELPS A PATIENT AND (RIGHT) SPORTS THERAPIST DAYNA VAN ROOYEN (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT) but it was difficult to find time for riding as well as my other interests, as I was so committed to Wasps. The experience was incredible, but it reached a point where I needed a better life/work balance.’

PALMER’S PAIN Cheryl then worked for a clinic in Portsmouth, but as she gained more experience, began making plans for her own business. Having saved a small amount, she established the Horsham Sports Injury Clinic in the humble setting of a room at Horsham Golf and Fitness Club at Hop Oast. Naturally, some of Cheryl’s first clients were golfers, suffering from back and shoulder pain

er and that his problems were related to sitting

‘Every person in our team is in a vehicle all day. It was only later that I learned Jolyon Palmer was a racing driver, involved in different kinds of who we helped during his time in F1.’ sports. I think that creates TEAM SPIRIT empathy with patients.’ or golfer’s elbow. However, Cheryl helped patients with musculoskeletal conditions caused by a wide range of sports and activities, including members of parkour group, Storror, and professional sports people. Cheryl said: ‘About a year after I founded the business, one of my patients told me that he was a driver by occupation. I initially thought he was a taxi driv-

After six years at the golf club, Cheryl had built a successful business and her client list had grown to the extent that she was struggling once again to balance her workload with her latest passion, horse dressage. She sought a larger premises to accommodate more therapists, and found the ideal location on the Graylands Estate, Horsham. Although it required much work to bring it up to modern standards, it had space for two therapy rooms, with free parking too.

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THE CLINIC OFFERS PILATES TOO (©AAH/AW)

Having survived the pandemic, the business has gone from strength to strength, with the team now comprised of four sports therapists as well as an osteopath, physiotherapist, nutritionist, cranial sacral therapist, lymphatic massage specialist and a new operations manager in Sam Fox. Nicola Deans joined as a sports therapist after graduating with a first class BSc (Hons) degree. She has an extensive martial arts background, achieving a black belt in karate and brown belt in Muay Thai kickboxing. Today, she utilises these experiences as a sports injury specialist. Nicola said: ‘The range of injuries we encounter is diverse, so we provide personalised rehabilitation and injury prevention programs to help our clients recover. During the football season, we see a lot of ankle and knee injuries, while rugby players tend to struggle with back and shoulder pain. Although we’re called Horsham Sports Injury Clinic, many patients come to us with injuries sustained in the home or workplace. People who spend long hours at a desk develop neck, shoulder and back problems, while others might have pain brought about through gardening. It doesn’t matter whether you obtain an injury playing sports or pruning a hedge, if the injury requires similar treatment. Whether you’re a professional athlete or somebody with a sore knee, we offer the same level of treatment and that’s why people come to us.’

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE With a growing team of therapists, the Clinic offers a wide range of treatments. These include shockwave therapy – a non-surgical treatment for chronic pain associated with chronic inflammation and degeneration of tendons, joint capsules, ligaments, muscles and bones. High Intensity Laser (HIL) technology is another painless, non-surgical treatment which speeds up healing and tissue regeneration in some injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. Cheryl said: ‘As well as hands-on treatments, such as exercise therapy and soft tissue massage, we offer treatments such as dry-needling, which involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific trigger points within muscles, tendons or connective tissue. It’s also important to educate patients about their injuries, so as well as treating them, we give them the knowledge to continue their treatment after leaving. That gives them a fighting chance to recover. ‘Every person in our team is involved in different kinds of sports and leisure pursuits. Maddie has competed in ultra-marathons, Sam competes in road racing cycling, while Emma does strength training. I think that helps to create empathy with patients and means we can send our clients away with exercises that will help them.’

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ELEVATE YOURSELF Two years ago, another business based above the clinic moved out of the building. Cheryl took the opportunity to expand once more, taking on the additional space to create a third treatment room and a new arm to the business, Elevate Reformed Pilates. Having taken specialist Pilates training courses, Cheryl and other instructors now offer everything from tailored one-to-one sessions to group Pilates sessions for up to six people.

EMMA AND CHERYL AT ELEVATE REFORMER PILATES (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT)

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Emma Odeneal, who has worked alongside Cheryl for five years and is also a trained Pilates instructor, said that being a sports therapist makes a difference when it comes to Pilates: ‘Having a knowledge of musculoskeletal pain and injuries is a huge advantage. I don’t know how anyone who doesn’t have MSK qualifications can instruct Pilates, because a good understanding of body mechanics is so important. ‘Usually, when a patient overcomes an injury, you don’t see them afterwards. However, through Pilates, we can continue to help them become stronger and it’s great seeing their confidence grow. There is one lady who comes to an ‘Advanced’ class who used to say she could hardly walk. Now, she’s in good health and keeps active, which makes our job all the more satisfying. Pilates is very different to our therapy work, yet they complement one another perfectly.’

POSITIVE STEPS The success of Elevate has even taken Cheryl by surprise. It now offers over 25 classes a week, from Beginner to Advanced, as well as specialist sessions such as Equestrian Reformer (building core strength for equestrian riders) and Mama Moves (for pre-natal and post-natal mothers). This has meant that Cheryl has reduced her sports therapy commitments to focus on managing the team and growing the business. She said: ‘When I established Elevate in January 2024, I had no idea it would be as popular as it has become. It shows people recovering from injuries needed another level of support, which we now provide. It has had a huge impact on the business, as we were treating 100 patients a month three years ago and now we see about 500 patients. Since Covid, people have much better awareness when it comes to their health and are investing more in their wellbeing, which can only be a good thing. You only get one body and you have to take care of it.’ WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: Visit: Horsham Sports Injury Clinic, 19 Graylands Estate, Langhurst Wood Road, Horsham, RH12 4QD info@sussexsportsinjury.co.uk (01403) 598017 sussexsportsinjury.co.uk

32 HORSHAM SPORTS INJURY CLINIC

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CLOUD WINE KINSBROOK EXPANDS AFTER OPENING ITS OWN WINERY

JOE AND REBECCA AT KINSBROOK WINERY (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT)

Kinsbrook has opened a new winery at its vineyard in West Chiltington Road, Thakeham. Run by Joe Beckett and Rebecca Dancer, Kinsbrook is among the most exciting brands in the burgeoning Sussex wine market. Now, with the completion of the winery, its young and ambitious owners hope to expand their ‘Kin’ and ‘Kith’ range of traditional and contemporary wines. Joe first developed an interest in wine while in New Zealand, where he played rugby and worked in a bar. Upon returning to the UK, he became a wine merchant, buying grapes from other vineyards and producing wines under the Kinsbrook label. Then in 2017, he planted his first vines, on family land previously used for arable farming. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength. As well as the vines at Kinsbrook, grapes have been planted on other local family plots, while they also manage several smaller vineyards in the area, where they grow specialist grapes.

With each additional year of maturity, the quality of its wine improves, yet Kinsbrook has already been recognised with national gold awards and been well reviewed by leading wine magazine, Decanter. Joe said: ‘We planted our first vines in 2017 and added more in the following years, but it takes five years for grapes to reach maturity. 2020 is recognised a great year for English wine, but at that time, we had only two fields providing us with mature grapes, so couldn’t produce in great volume. Now, we have five mature fields producing vines that will only become more flavoursome with time. So, the new winery comes at the perfect moment.’

CREATIVE JUICES The winery has been key to the long-term ambitions of Kinsbrook from the outset. The unit was built at the same time as the Farmhouse – now home to a popular farm shop, restaurant and café deli. However, it remained a shell until recently. FOOD & DRINK 37

Previously, Kinsbrook used wineries at the Wiston Estate and Stopham Vineyard to make its wines, but thanks to grant funding, has now been able to purchase its own equipment. Joe said: ‘We could have established a small winery in 2020, but because we were picking fewer grapes then, we would have had to upscale every year to meet demand. So, we decided to wait until we were close to our maximum production level before taking this step. ‘This was made easier thanks to help from Horsham District Council’s Rural England Prosperity Fund. So, we are grateful for this support, as it allowed us to buy a 4.2 tonne pressing machine, stainless steel tanks and specialist pumps fundamental to wine-making. Of course, it was never going to go entirely to plan! This year’s harvest arrived very early and we had to rope in family and friends to complete the project just as the first grapes were arriving at the winery door. Having a facility of our own allows us to maintain close control over quality and gives us scope to experiment with grapes to create complex wines, which is one of the most exciting parts of the job.’

SPECIAL BLENDS This year, Kinsbrook produced around 42,000 litres of wine, enough for about 55,000 bottles. The capacity of the winery is around 63,000 litres, giving the wine-makers some space for growth.

38 KINSBROOK

JOE BECKETT IN THE NEW WINERY (©AAH/AW)

The Kinsbrook range includes its flagship Sparkling White (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier), made using the traditional English sparkling wine method (the same as Champagne, with secondary fermentation happening inside the bottle). Other wines include a Chardonnay, Pinot Rose (Pinot Noir Précoce, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) and a 2023 vintage of Bacchus. As well as its ‘Kin’ wines, Kinsbrook makes experimental wines under its ‘Kith’ brand, including ABC, an Chardonnay aged in oak barrels. Rebecca said: ‘We grow unusual varieties such as Rondo, which isn’t very common but has a wonderfully rich, fruity flavour which we blend with Pinot Noir for our NIMBY wine. We’ve also planted Ortega – great for sweet wine – and Dornfelder, an interesting red grape with dark flavours. If Kin is an outlet for our traditional still and sparkling wines, the Kith range is its funky, younger sister. The two complement one another, but target different markets. This also makes it more exciting for us, especially Joe, as he loves being creative with blends.’

‘NOWT’ GOING ON Creativity extends to every aspect of the brand, with contemporary styling reflecting the owners’ aim of offering an alternative to wines served by more established players. While travelling in New Zealand, Joe noted that many vineyards appealed to younger people by creating relaxed, unpretentious environments for wine-tasting. He wanted to create similar experiences in the UK, without

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the stuffiness associated with some vineyards. So, there are mischievous touches, such as labelling its sparkling white as ‘White from White’, rather than ‘Blancs de Blanc’. Meanwhile, it’s ‘O’ wine – a sparkling white – is labelled ‘Naught, Nought, Zero, O, Egg, Nowt, Nothing’. Kinsbrook even has a mascot which appears on clothing and merchandise, as well as bottle labels. Joe said: ‘My family name of Beckett is the colloquial term for a Cornish chough. It has been a family symbol for a long time and when we first produced our own wine, we adopted a traditional chough for labels. When we modernised the brand, we wanted an anthropomorphic version, taking a little inspiration from Peaky Blinders. Some people have mistaken it off for a chicken, but a few keen twitchers have identified it correctly!’ However, the Cornish chough can only take so much credit. The main reason for Kinsbrook’s success is the dynamic approach of its owners and the team they’ve built around them. Kinsbrook Farmhouse took time to find its feet, but is now a popular community hub. The restaurant, which overlooks the vineyard, has hit new heights under head chef Alex Bicknell and is now open Wednesdays to Sundays, with Sunday roasts and Saturday steak nights especially popular. The café and deli also attract visitors, providing Joe and Rebecca with a perfect cellar door too. Of the 40,000 bottles of wine produced last year, a remarkable 95% were sold through the farmhouse.

REBECCA DANCER AT KINSBROOK FARMHOUSE (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT)

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Rebecca said: ‘We have loyal customers who have supported us from the beginning. We opened during Covid and Kinsbrook became a place where people could escape the house, enjoy a coffee and some fresh air. Many people remember the days before the farmhouse was built, when we operated from a horsebox by the gate. So, they’ve invested in us as a couple and followed our journey.’ ‘Although we’d love to grow the trade side, it’s more important that people come here to enjoy the full Kinsbrook experience, so the cellar door will remain our priority. This year, many people helped with the harvest and in terms of job satisfaction, that was as good as it gets, seeing the community come together to help us. We held our first Summer Festival too, which was attended by 600 people. So, it has become an important venue for all the community. We’ve even seen marriage proposals, and parents bringing out their newborn babies for the first time. We love hearing such stories, as it shows that we’ve managed to create something special.’ WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information For more details and events, visit: www.kinsbrookvineyard.com

40 KINSBROOK

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INNOVATORS LEAD TECH REVOLUTION

If you haven’t heard of Red River, don’t worry. Because despite building game-changing tech used across the globe (and with more than £450m flowing through their platforms each year), Red River is quietly getting on with it all from its Horsham base. Founded back in 2008 by Simon Pringle and Kieren Johnstone, Red River started small. Two people, one big idea, and a shared belief that software should be powerful, humancentered and built with integrity. Fast forward to the present, they’ve grown into a thriving software company with around 30 employees worldwide, including a team at Springfield House in the heart of Horsham. Red River is in good company in Horsham, with Creative Assembly – a multi-award winning games studio – also choosing the town to grow in. This just goes to show that Horsham hums with digital energy. There’s an appetite in the town for smart, creative innovation, and Red River is helping to lead the charge.

So, what exactly do they do? Red River builds custom digital platforms for numerous sectors including aerospace, aviation, logistics, health, finance, and even funerals. Their systems are used by global clients in over 100 countries, across industries where efficiency and reliability matter. Think Airbus, Nuffield Health, Veolia, the NHS… the kind of businesses where the tech behind the scenes needs to be rock-solid and easy to scale. As well as attracting big names, Red River works in close partnership with many companies in the Horsham District and surrounding areas. Its core focus is to work with high growth companies who are transitioning to tech focused, industry-leading businesses. One of Red River’s most fascinating ventures is SekerTech, a funeral industry SaaS platform that helps funeral directors manage everything from the first call to aftercare. The eFD platform was designed and built by Red River. It streamlines admin and frees up time so directors can focus on what really matters: supporting families. It’s tech that serves people at their most human moments, and that’s something Red River cares about.

They don’t stop there, either. Red River has also helped to found Tech Native, an initiative to tackle the UK’s digital skills shortage head-on. Whether it’s running robotics clubs in schools, offering T-Level placements, or partnering with the University of Chichester on apprenticeships, they’re building the future of tech from the ground up. And while they’re not ones to shout about it, it’s worth mentioning that co-founder Simon Pringle and Red River have picked up a few industry awards along the way, recognition for the way Red River leads with purpose and passion, not just code. So, next time someone tells you that nothing exciting happens in Horsham, feel free to politely disagree. Because behind an unassuming door in Springfield House, a quietly brilliant team is building platforms that power industries, solve real-world problems, and shape the future of work. Red River might be Horsham’s best-kept tech secret, but it won’t stay that way for long. Get in touch to find out what they can do for you. www.river.red email: hello@river.red 0344 8802357 RED RIVER 43

SCOBY SN A family-run drinks company in Washington continues to go from strength-to-strength, thanks not only to demand for its products, but also its positive impact on society.

Holos, based on the Wiston estate, produce a growing range of all-natural kombucha. From humble beginnings, the business has steadily expanded and recently took a giant leap forward by partnering with Waitrose. It is run by a dynamic quartet comprised of two married couples: Tom and Naomi Partridge and their good friends Joseph and Megan Landreth-Smith. Each brings their own unique experience to the team, although the initial spark came from the wives... Naomi recalls: ‘I joined an international project that helps women who have been victims of trafficking, slavery and abuse. I met Megan for the first time at Heathrow, as she was the only other British person working on the project in Cambodia. We had the most incredible experience, working with exploited 44 HOLOS KOMBUCHA

women in the capital, Phnom Penn. Women we met were keen to escape their situation and, like the rest of us, simply wanted a regular income to house, feed and educate their children.

‘One woman we met had experience of nail treatments, so we bought her some basic equipment and she started to turn her life around by offering treatments at our hotel. Ultimately, we helped place her five children in education and it felt amazing to transform lives in that way. It demonstrated to us the power of employment when it comes to helping people. ‘Megan remained in Cambodia for another six months, while I worked for the Sophie Hayes Foundation, which also helps women trafficked for sexual exploitation. After we had both returned to the UK, we met up and talked about ideas. Could we create our own business that – in its blueprint – is designed to provide opportunities and help people emerge from terrible situations?’

NAOMI AND MEGAN ENSURE THAT HOLOS HAS A POSITIVE SOCIAL IMPACT (©AAH/AW)

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NACKS AN IDEA BREWS…

The two friends needed a product that would provide them with good market visibility and a platform to make a positive social impact. It also needed to have the potential to create a variety of jobs, from manufacturing and packaging to sales and marketing. One product ticked every box...

Megan first tasted kombucha in Phnom Penn when an American friend suggested it might help her overcome a bout of illness. She became a convert when kombucha – a fermented drink made from tea, sugar and a SCOBY (Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast) – helped her recover. Meanwhile, Naomi had spent a year in the States and seen kombucha’s popularity soar. So, they hatched a plan... Megan said: ‘We felt that demand for kombucha would continue to grow in the UK, which has proved to be the

case. Our initial ideas were quite naïve, but what we did establish was a clear mission for the business.’ With their own children to look after, they needed help running the company, which is where Naomi’s husband Tom enters the fray. Tom said: ‘They felt we would need to produce at least 35,000 bottles a year for the business to be viable. I was working in wind energy at the time, but decided to go part-time to head production at Holos, to see if we could establish a foothold for the business. ‘I didn’t like the first kombucha that I tasted. However, that made me want to create a drink that a wider audience would appreciate. I felt some of the established brands were leaning heavily on kombucha’s health benefits. They were like apple cider vinegar, in that you would only really drink it because it was good for you, not because

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Regular Updates on Socials BUSINESS 45

you actually wanted it! So, my motivation wasn’t the social impact aspects of the business – wonderful as they are. I am striving for excellence, in terms of what we produce. ‘We developed our own techniques using particular teas, searching for the right balance with the sugars before perfecting precise methods of fermentation to give us a consistent brew. I like everything to be as clean as possible, using organic ingredients, so we can make a healthy drink that people actually enjoy.’

ON YOUR MARKS In 2018, Holos secured support from a social impact accelerator programme, which provided enough funding to establish a unit in Earlsfield, London for small-scale production. However, it didn’t offer space for growth and when both couples moved to Sussex, they began searching for a new premises between London and Brighton. Joseph was playing football near the Wiston estate when he stumbled upon new business units that fit the criteria. Holos made the move in January 2020, weeks before the first lockdown.

JOSEPH LANDRETH-SMITH (©AAH/AW)

Having initially wondered how they would ever fill the unit – which was several times larger than the previous one – Joseph soon found himself with

more time to work on a solution, as Covid wiped out his regular work as an event photographer. Devoting his attention to Holos, he soon found that his flair for marketing complemented Tom’s manufacturing and engineering background. With all four members of the team contributing, Holos made strides in the marketplace. After consulting with business specialists, they established a network of industry contacts and attained food safety accreditation, including SALSA (Safe and Local Supplier Approval) and Soil Association certification. This helped them secure a contract to supply Marks & Spencer. At that time, its biggest tank could hold only 100 litres. So, when the first M&S order came through for 11,000 units, Holos had to invest in chilled tanks and a new bottling line to meet the sudden increase in demand. Joseph said: ‘M&S tried many different kombuchas and said that ours was the best they tasted. At the time, our range included Ginger and Hibiscus, Basil and Mint, and Citra Hops. We also had a Strawberry and Vanilla flavour, which has since been replaced by Raspberry and Elderflower. When we released Citra hops, it really shook up the UK kombucha market by winning 3 Stars at the Great Taste Awards.

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THE REAL DEAL In 2025, Holos launched a new range of canned organic sparkling tea to appeal to a different market. These include Jasmine Hops (Jasmine tea and Citra hops), Rooibos Ginger (Rooibos tea and ginger juice) and Cucumber Mint (Oolong tea and mint natural flavouring). Already, these contemporary products have attracted new clients including Ocado and Mindful Chef, and have even been sampled at Meta’s UK offices.

TOM PARTRIDGE CHECKS IN ON HIS SCOBYS

‘Until that point, kombucha brands had typically gone down one of two routes: they either made authentic kombucha, producing a polarising drink that was often very cloudy due to the active fermentation process; or they were making a diluted form of sparkling kombucha in a can that didn’t have the traditional health benefits. We created something that had the best of both. It tasted and looked great, but was also authentic and organic. So, when we won the 3-Star Great Taste award, it really put us on the map, as until that point, we were minnows in the market.’

Like its classic bottled range, the cans have a base in kombucha – a living, fermented tea that’s rich in organic acids and beneficial compounds. Probiotic content supports good gut health, while antioxidants in the tea can protect against cell damage. Other possible benefits include improved digestion, while anecdotal evidence has linked the drink to better heart health.

‘There is a clear link with gut health, while people like medical doctor Tim Spector are advocates of fermented foods.’ Tom says: ‘Kombucha is probiotic, while the sparkling tea is prebiotic, as we use ingredients such as agave inulin, which create fuel for your gut bacteria. So, they literally feed off each other to improve your gut health and digestion. When it comes to the health benefits of kombucha, more research needs to be done to assess its full impact, as some claims made elsewhere are purely speculative or anecdotal. ‘However, there is a clear link with gut health and people like (medical doctor) Tim Spector are big advocates of fermented foods. Some people have had bad experiences with kombucha in the past. One overseas brand flooded the market with a diluted product that contained very little kombucha, which tainted perceptions of the drink in the UK. Other brands followed suit, leaving many people confused as to what kombucha is or should be. That is something we are helping to change.’ BUSINESS 47

THE HOLOS TEAM PRODUCE A RANGE OF KOMBUCHA ON THE WISTON ESTATE IN WASHINGTON (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT)

MULLED OVER With a range of organic kombucha, organic sparkling teas and – for a limited time only – a Mulled Spice Christmas kombucha – Holos now distributes across the UK, with products available in Whole Foods Market, Yo Sushi, Waterstones and Amazon Prime. For the first time, its products are available at a major supermarket too. Since November, Waitrose has offered three of its bottled kombuchas at 32 stores, including Horsham. If the trial is successful, Holos could be available at its stores across the country. Its benefits go beyond gut health too, as Holos has stayed true to Megan and Naomi’s original vision. Megan said: ‘We make a positive difference in two ways. Firstly, we provide paid

48 HOLOS KOMBUCHA

work opportunities, usually through referrals from charitable organisations. These placements can last from just a month or two, right up to a year, providing a stepping stone for someone who has experienced trauma or exploitation. ‘Additionally, we assigned 25% of the company shares to the Holos Foundation, our charitable arm. Already, we have provided a grant to a woman who previously worked with us to undergo therapy to aid her recovery. As we grow the business we grow the charity too, reaching more and more people. Currently our focus is the local area, as an estimated 100,000 people are impacted by exploitation in the UK alone, including refugees and asylum seekers.

‘We want to meet the need in front of us before we start to look at needs elsewhere. We are trying to achieve this growth while simultaneously raising families too. While Tom and Joseph push on with the business, Naomi and I are still involved in making the key decisions. There’s a strong synergy between us and the ongoing success of Holos will depend on everyone.’ WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: You can purchase products on the website, including a Brewing Kit with Scoby. www.holoskombucha.com holoskombucha

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

See in the New Year with

Specsavers Horsham From everyone at Specsavers Horsham, Happy New Year!

Our New Year’s Resolution for 2026 is to continue working hard to bring you the very best choice in glasses, contact lenses and hearing devices, complemented with unbeatable value by our enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. Specsavers are known for fantastic offers (like our buy one get one free), but we are also passionate about investing in our team and technology, to make sure our customers receive the very best, professional care and service. Let’s meet some of our fantastic team... Early in your visit, you will meet our clinical colleagues, who will perform your diagnostic checks before you see the optician. Terri joined Specsavers Horsham more than two and a half years ago and is now on the pathway to becoming a dispensing optician. She also does a great job at looking after our contact lens department.

‘We can offer customers an OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scan as part of a comprehensive eye test.’ Terri explains: ‘We are very lucky to be able to offer our customers an OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scan as part of a comprehensive eye test. This incredible device utilises hospitalgrade technology that allows the optician to view the eye in greater detail, helping to detect certain eye conditions up to four years earlier. It’s also a great way of building up a visual history of your eye health, which we can monitor over time.’

Terri & Cynthia, Clinical Team

Specsavers has an exciting portfolio of glasses and contact lenses Next, you will meet one of our optometrists, like Mohammed. Mohammed has been in the industry for more than 10 years. Mohammed says: ‘I feel really supported at Specsavers and as a business, they continually invest in me and my further professional education by sponsoring me to attend courses, such as medical retina and glaucoma programmes. It means that when you visit Specsavers Horsham, you really are in the hands of professionals who care about you and your eye health. As well as investing in their colleagues, Specsavers continually invest in technology, ensuring we always have the best testing equipment available, to look after our customers in the safest, most accurate way possible.’

Mohammed, Optometrist

Ben is Horsham’s dispensing manager and a regular in AAH. Ben started his career with us in 2015 and we are so proud of his development. His dedication and talent to his craft as a trainee dispensing optician is a credit to Specsavers. Ben explains: ‘We have an exciting portfolio of glasses and contact lenses exclusive to Specsavers. This means that no matter what your lifestyle needs or preferences are, we will have something that is not only going to look amazing, but will positively impact your life. Our new dispensing technology also means your measurements are more detailed and can be tailor-made to suit your needs. ‘Our 2-4-1 offer is included with most of our lenses and frames (even designer ones). We work with you to make sure you’re getting the very best value and functionality in both pairs.’

Ben, Dispensing Manager

You can now book an appointment online by visiting www.specsavers.co.uk/horsham or call (01403) 275115. Alternatively, please come and see us in store: 2 Worthing Road, Horsham, RH12 1SL SPECSAVERS 49

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ZOOM CALL CLAIRE PADMORE: FROM THE OFFICE TO THE RACETRACK

CLAIRE PADMORE EXPERIENCED THE THRILL OF MAZDA MX-5 RACING AT SILVERSTONE For over 20 years, Claire Padmore has travelled to circuits across Europe in support of her husband Nick Padmore, a racing driver and driver development coach.

race. Because it was the season finale, everyone was pushing hard and driving on the edge, as they wanted to end the championship on a high note.

Now Claire has experienced the adrenaline of motorsport herself, having raced at Silverstone in one of the UK’s most competitive club series. She competed in the final two rounds of the BRSCC Mazda MX-5 Championship on the weekend of 11-12 October, bringing the car home in both races and enjoying wheel-towheel action.

‘I was most nervous on the grid, waiting for the lights to turn green, as it’s hard to practice a standing start. I was told to keep the revs at about 4000rpm, then go when the lights turned, which I did, and soon settled into the race. Although some drivers were very experienced, I was fortunate as I was able to have a great battle with another driver. We were near the back of the field, but it was great to race closely with another car and we overtook each other many times. In the first race, I pipped him to the line and in the second race, he passed me on the last lap.

Claire, who lives in Horsham, said: ‘Each race was 20-minutes long on the International circuit at Silverstone, which includes famous sections of the Grand Prix circuit such as Abbey, Stowe and Hanger Straight, where we reached speeds of 120mph. We used the Formula 1 paddock too, so it was exciting to be in a garage used by leading Grand Prix teams and drivers. The MX-5 Championship is very popular, as it’s a relatively affordable form of motorsport, so there were 44 drivers in the

‘As it was the end of the season, they organised a photo of all the drivers on the grid, stood in their overalls and helmets, so it was nice to be part of that. Everyone in the paddock made me feel welcome, so the weekend couldn’t have gone better.’

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While it was Claire’s first taste of racing in a club championship, she isn’t a complete novice when it comes to motorsport. She enjoys karting and has competed in an endurance team event alongside her husband at Buckmore Park. She even took part in an event held to promote the short-lived Formula Woman series, which aimed to increase female participation in motorsport. However, for the past two decades, Claire has supported Nick’s career, which has taken the couple around the world. Nick (below) has earned a reputation as one of the finest drivers of historic racing cars in the world, winning the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Championship four times, most recently steering a Lotus 77 to the title in 2023. Having cheered Nick from the grandstands, Claire had an ambition to reverse roles, and a test day at Brands Hatch proved she had the potential to fulfil this dream. Nick said: ‘Although I am a driver coach, we felt that when it came to Claire’s tuition, it was best to approach my dad, Keith. He is in his 70s but is a brilliant coach, still working at Goodwood Motor Circuit.

CLAIRE ENJOYED THE FIERCE RACING OF A COMPETITIVE CHAMPIONSHIP

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‘So, during a Brands Hatch track day for drivers in the Citroen C1 Championship, he taught Claire some of the fundamental skills of motor racing. He was impressed, as she listened carefully to instruction and put this knowledge to practice on the track. Afterwards, he said that she had ability behind the wheel. ‘At the time, I was coaching drivers in the Mazda MX-5 Championships. One of the leading teams, NHA Motorsport in Lewes, offered Claire the chance to compete in one of its cars at a race weekend. We are so grateful for their support, as even though it’s one of the more affordable forms of club racing, we couldn’t have done it alone. Even my regular engineer, who had been working in Germany, travelled back to the UK as he didn’t want to miss out on the chance to help Claire. ‘While my contacts helped, she still had to raise enough money to cover the entry fees and achieved that by persuading the directors of Home Telecom, where she works in Horsham, to support her. Everyone came together, as she has always been there to support me and so we wanted to make it a weekend she wouldn’t forget.’

‘Everyone told me that I would get the racing bug, and that’s exactly what has happened!’

NICK PADMORE GIVES WIFE CLAIRE SOME LAST MINUTE TIPS AT SILVERSTONE

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Before racing, Claire had to pass a Novice Drivers Training Course run by the Association of Racing Driver Schools (ARDS). This was one of the most nerve-racking parts of the process, but she studied the rules to make sure she passed. When it came to race day, Claire was the only female on the grid. While it took a few laps to adjust to race speeds, she soon adopted a racing driver’s mentality. And having competed in one event, Claire is thinking about donning overalls once again in 2026… She said: ‘I wanted to do it as a one-off, just to experience racing and understand a little of what Nick goes through. Everyone told me that I would get the racing bug, and that’s exactly what has happened! As well as the BRSCC Championship for MX-5 Mark I cars, the 760 Motor Club runs a separate championship for MX-5 cars, with Silverstone hosting a round in each series. So, I could potentially race at two weekends next year, with four races in all. I would love that, as having had a taste of motorsport, I’d like the chance to improve and maybe go a little faster!’ WORDS: Ben Morris Further information: Nick Padmore Racing & Driver Development www.hometelecom.co.uk

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ROGUE NATION ROGUE AWAKENING HEADLINE HEAVY HORSHAM

ROGUE AWAKENING AT THE ROCK CRAFTHOUSE, HORSHAM (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT) The Rock Crafthouse in East Street hosted the inaugural Heavy Horsham event in December, headlined by local alternative metal band Rogue Awakening. AAH caught up with the band to hear about their journey and hopes for a new music scene in the town…

denim and studded belts; you can see it too in the look of unease on those who get as far as the bar before slinking away to a place devoid of blokes in eye-liner. The three bands scheduled to perform have even been asked to delay their show by an hour and a half to avoid upsetting those attending a Christmas works function held upstairs.

– fronted by Japanese singer/songwriter Rio Suyama – and Eastbourne-based rockers Chub, who won over the crowd with occasionally puerile yet frequently entertaining anthems such as Microwave Dave. A lively yet good-natured group of metal fans bumped and jostled in the mosh-pit all night long.

Life can be tough for a metal band. Even this evening, playing to a modest crowd in a Horsham pub, there are reminders that the genre doesn’t conform to societal norms. You can see it in the expression of passers-by pressing their faces against the window, bemused by scenes of head-bangers in ripped

It seems a touch unfair, especially as two of the bands and their fans have travelled a distance (London and Eastbourne, respectively) to be here. Yet, the bands and the audience take it in their stride. By the time headliners Rogue Awakening take to the stage, it’s 10:15pm. Yet the night has already been a success, thanks to the boundless energy of opening act Re:O

Tom Corrigan, rhythm guitarist in Rogue Awakening, said: ‘Chub helped create the Eastbourne Music Collective and have been building a rock and metal scene for original bands there. We would love to establish something similar in Horsham. We received strong support from Horsham Rocks in organising this event, but nonetheless, it’s difficult to find venues for heavy rock in town.

OLLIE DAY (LEAD GUITAR)

ZAKK VIRDEE (BASS GUITAR)

JAMES MORGAN (DRUMMER)

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MUSIC 55

WYLDE THINGS Rogue Awakening rose from the ashes of Covid, based around a friendship that formed on a school playground. Kimberley Voice was already an experienced vocalist, having previously enjoyed success with Damn Dirty Humans. However, Tom had only played guitar in the confines of his own home. With their children attending the same school, the two started talking about their musical interests and Kimberley convinced Tom to form a band.

TOM CORRIGAN, GUITARIST The Rec Rooms – where we once played – has closed, and The Malt Shovel was also a great supporter of live music. There are few options left, so we’re grateful to The Rock for giving us a chance to play. Our hope is that we can lay down roots, so that we can bring bands from across the south east to Horsham. ‘As well as supporting established bands, we can give opportunities for up-and-coming acts such as Re:O, helping them establish a fan base. We hope this idea will snowball and that we can organise Heavy Horsham every few months, if there is enough demand for it.’

Ollie Day, also from Horsham, joined as lead guitarist, having previously played with Crawley-based rockers Half Heroes. After initially working with another drummer, the Rogues recruited James Morgan, who has also played in a covers band, Dirty Love. The newest member is bassist Zakk Virdee. Zakk was named after Zakk Wylde, lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, as his dad is a huge fan of Ozzy and Black Sabbath, even playing in a tribute act. Zakk first saw Rogue Awakening as a fan, before taking the chance to join the line-up. When it comes to writing, they work collaboratively, building songs layer-by-layer. Kimberley said: ‘Any member can bring an idea to the table and we work on it together, so there’s no defined songwriting

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‘Performing in the Live Lounge and being interviewed on BBC Radio was a great experience. It felt like an endorsement.’

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KIMBERLEY VOICE, VOCALIST structure. However, most ideas start with Ollie, as he’s a superb guitarist. Once we have the guitar structure, we introduce drums, bass and rhythm sections and develop layers. I tend to take the lead with lyrics. There are elements of pagan folklore and spirituality in my lyrics, as they interest me and influence us as a band. However, I also write about mental health and femininity. I’m very proud of our most recent release, Remain Untamed, which highlights the importance of women living their lives free from the shackles of male control. ‘Being a female in a metal band can be challenging, as it’s a male-dominated genre. It isn’t unusual for me to be the only female in the room, as most rock musicians – not to mention sound engineers and technicians – are men. Being a female-fronted band gives us a different dynamic, especially as I’m not a “shouty” vocalist. For that reason, people struggle to place us within the genre.’

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MELODY MAKERS Although proudly heavy, melody and decipherable lyrics form the heart of Rogue Awakening’s output. In 2023, they released an EP, Feed Me Fire, complete with a tongue-in-cheek video which sees them playing the role of an evil band tricking a businessman into becoming a sacrifice to the Pagan Gods. This was MUSIC 57

followed by singles including The Hunter, Bloodflow and Little Death, which further cemented the band’s reputation for catchy, fantasy alternative metal with great solos. Ollie said: ‘We have a wide range of influences, but growing up, I loved hair metal bands like Guns N’ Roses and that interest later led me to bands like Bullet for My Valentine and Trivium. While our sound is based in heavy, guitar-driven music, it’s still built around a melody, as that’s what we love. We also introduce some fantasy elements, taking inspiration from role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons, and these influences are evident not just in our recordings, but also our videos and live performances.’

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be heard on the station, so we’re grateful to her. We played four songs in a BBC Studio, which was surreal. It felt like an endorsement – that somebody had recognised us as a good band with songs worth hearing. ‘Next year, we would love to play some bigger shows, perhaps even festivals. We have performed at Guilfest before, which is a great event and gave us good exposure. Last year was spent rebuilding with a new line-up, with Zakk and James joining the band. Now we are more settled, we would like to record new material. While we’ve been releasing singles to maintain momentum, we’d love to record a full album eventually, although that takes time and investment.

The band continue to release singles, with Remain Untamed – the most recent release – notching up over 10,000 streams on Spotify. They reached new audiences with a Live Lounge performance on BBC Introducing Sussex too.

‘As for Horsham, we are trying to create a local scene. We know a lot of rock and metal bands that would love more opportunities to play in the town and – as we’ve seen tonight – there is an audience that isn’t being catered for elsewhere.’

Kimberley said: ‘Performing in the Live Lounge and being interviewed on BBC Radio was a great experience. Presenter Melita Dennett is very supportive of local music and gives opportunities to bands that wouldn’t normally

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: rogueawakeningofficial @rogueawakening3687

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SUITEHARMONY BILLINGSHURST CHORAL SOCIETY ATTAIN NEW HEIGHTS

THE BILLINGSHURST CHORAL SOCIETY PERFORM AT ST MARY’S, HORSHAM (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT) Billingshurst Choral Society (BCS) held its Autumn Concert at St Mary’s Church, Horsham on 29 November. The Society performed with guest soloists, as well as professional musicians from Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra. After an opening instrumental piece, Mozart’s Divertimento in D Major, the choir sang Mozart’s Vesperae Solennes de Confessore, which featured the additional vocal talents of soprano Helen May, tenor John Twitchen, mezzo-soprano Lydia Ward and bass baritone Lawrence Gillians. After the interval, the Society took centre stage to perform French composer Gabriel Faure’s much-lived Requiem. For members, singing alongside classically-trained vocalists is just one way in which current Musical Director Marcio Da Silva elevates performances. Theresa Gilsenan, who recently joined BCS from another choir, said: ‘What particularly impressed me initially was the male section, as it’s lovely to sing alongside such a strong bass and baritone section. As an alto, we harmonise below the sopranos and tenors, and Marcio is very precise when it comes to blending each section of the choir. When we begin rehearsing a new piece of music, it can feel like we are

orchestral conducting at the Royal College of Music in London in 2013. He was also Music Director of Woodhouse Opera from 2012 – 2018 and founded his own company, Ensemble Orquesta, specialising in baroque opera. Today, he conducts Hastings Philharmonic Choir, is MD of Grange Choral Society in Dorset, and since 2021 has led BCS.

stopping too much sometimes, but that is just Marcio’s way of refining the choir, ensuring the phonetics are correct.’

ACCESSIBLE SOUNDS Brazilian-born Marcio began his studies at the tender age of nine with piano and singing lessons. As a child soprano, he performed as a soloist in Germany, Italy and Brazil, before studying in the United States, where he graduated from the renowned Phoenix Boys Choir. In 2006, he received his Diplôme d’Études Musicales in voice from the Conservatoire de Toulouse, France. As well as being a renowned baritone and counter-tenor, he completed a Master’s in

Marcio said: ‘The Society had to rebuild after the retirement of its (long-serving founder and first MD) George Jones, followed just a couple of years later by the Covid pandemic. Since then, we have been slowly growing our audience. For me, it’s important that classical music is accessible, so with my orchestra in Hastings, we hand out free tickets so that all in the community can enjoy concerts. I want people to enjoy classical music, and it’s important for those in the choir to perform to a large audience too. ‘BCS used to perform concerts in Billingshurst, but when we had to find a new venue, St Mary’s in Horsham made sense. The town has a very knowledgeable audience that regularly attends concerts by other choirs and orchestras, and it’s also a lovely place to perform. We want to continue growing as a Society and I feel St Mary’s is the place for us to achieve that.’ GROUPS 61

ARMED FORCE Billingshurst Choral Society was founded in 1986 by a group of friends, including founding MD George Jones. After 29 years, George retired from BCS in 2015, with Cathal Garvey taking the reins. Covid brought about major changes and had an impact on membership, but the Society rose again with a new MD in Marcio, as well as a new accompanist, Jeremy Weaver.

‘We went to New York for a performance of The Armed Man, conducted by Jenkins himself.’ The Society rehearse at Billingshurst Community and Conference Centre in Rowan Way, every Tuesday evening from 7:30 - 9.30pm. It usually hosts three concerts a year, which have previously been held in Billingshurst. However, with Billingshurst’s churches lacking space and the sports hall at The Weald proving too expensive to hire, the Society held all its 2025 concerts held at Horsham’s Parish Church.

62 BILLINGSHURST CHORAL SOCIETY

At the culmination of one concert, the choir rehearse for the next, with a repertoire ranging from classical music by Handel, Beethoven and Bach to the operas of Verdi and Puccini, with contemporary works by the likes of John Rutter and Karl Jenkins occasionally included too. The BCS have gone on tour too, playing prestigious venues, including a performance of Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man at Carnegie Hall. Keith Paul, Chair of BCS, said: ‘The Armed Man was composed in 2000, but it’s only in recent years that the work – particularly the Benedictus – has become a very well-known piece of music. One of our members heard it shortly after its première and played it to our former MD, who loved it too. We then formed part of the first amateur performance of The Armed Man at Arundel Cathedral. ‘Since then, we’ve performed it on several other occasions. Along with members of Angmering Chorale, some of us travelled to New York to be part of a 2006 performance at Carnegie Hall, conducted by Jenkins himself. We later returned to New York to perform the same piece at the Lincoln Centre. We’ve also sung it in Berlin, at an event marking the centenary of the start of the Great War.’

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KEITH PAUL, CHAIR OF BCS (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT) ‘Jenkins also wrote another composition called Stabat Mater, which isn’t as well-known but is also a beautiful piece of music, which we sung with Leicester Philharmonic Choir. These are amazing concerts to be involved in, and have meant we’ve been lucky enough to sing in beautiful and famous venues.’

SOCIAL SCENE Social aspects of the Society are important and members organise activities too, including regular walks and a summer garden party, raising money for good causes. Many members have been on tour, including a 2025 trip to Saumur, France, where the choir performed in the medieval walled village of Montreuil Bellay. Previously, BCS have visited Freiburg, joining seven German choirs in a performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah, while a 2017 Dublin tour saw them perform at Christchurch Cathedral. Catherine Nye, a long-serving member of the choir, said: ‘Tours are held over three or four days and usually combine sightseeing with performances. Itineraries can be intense, as we squeeze a lot in, but

the trips bring the choir together. In rehearsals, you find yourself largely confined to your own singing section, so we don’t mingle as much as we could. So, trips are a great way of getting to know people and I have made many friends this way, as there’s always a good atmosphere.’ New members are welcome and occasional ‘Come and Sing’ events provide a gentle introduction. These offer people the chance to sing a major choral work, with the next focusing on Haydn’s The Creation, which the Society will perform at its 2026 Spring Concert. Paula Mills sang with BCS before moving to the Isle of Wight, where she now performs with Cantata Choir. While she can’t commit to regular BCS rehearsals, the ‘Come and Sing’ events offer a chance to catch up with old friends. She said: ‘I joined the recent BCS workshops as I wanted to see Marcio in action. It’s interesting to see how different conductors approach a familiar piece of music, as you learn things to help you improve as a singer. I had fun and was so impressed by the workshop that I returned to hear the Requiem in concert at St Mary’s.’

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GROUPS 63

CLASSICAL EDUCATION

performed more recent works by the likes of John Rutter and (Canadian composer) Imant Raminsh and they too have been interesting, as it’s good to be introduced to beautiful contemporary music.’

As well as performing works by well-known composers such as Haydn, Sibelius and Fauré, the choir have performed lighter works, including the hits of Gilbert & Sullivan, and works by contemporary composers such as Morten Lauridsen. However, the focus is on classical works, which suits members such as Simon Moore.

Such sentiments are echoed by one of the younger members, Izzy Wilson. She said: ‘I’ve never fancied doing things like hand gestures or dance moves whilst singing, as some choirs tend to do. I prefer focusing on singing and have loved learning Faure’s Requiem for this concert, as it has a beautiful melody that flows through the entire composition.

He said: ‘I have sung in other choirs, but sometimes they change their repertoire and I have no interest in singing songs from the musicals. My passion is the music of the great composers such as Mozart and Brahms, so the BCS repertoire caters for me. However, we have

‘Marcio’s extensive experience as a singer helps to elevate our performances too. As he is an

amazing singer himself, he pushes you to be better. As a soprano, I feel he encourages me to explore different techniques, as he has insight as a vocalist, which is unusual for a conductor. He doesn’t coach you individually, but even when addressing the entire group, he often suggests things that we can all take away to help us improve as a choral group.’ WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: To enquire about membership, email Catherine Nye, Membership Secretary: membership@billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk www.billingshurstchoralsociety.org.uk

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FINAL WORD PETITION TO IMPROVE CROSSING NEAR HORSHAM PARK Trudie Mitchell Trudie is Chair of Horsham Denne Neighbourhood Council, which represents the concerns of residents to Horsham District Council and West Sussex County Council. Here, she highlights a project to make a crossing safer for all. There are several places to cross North Street, but the route between the railway subway and the Park is one of the most popular, connecting the two sides of Horsham. It is used by hundreds of people every day. It is the shortest way to cross the road and looks very inviting coming from the subway, as there is a dropped kerb and a large central reservation to make crossing easy. However, when you get to the Park side, there is no dropped kerb and no pavement – just a wide grass verge that quickly turns into mud in wet weather. We’ve watched the muddy patch get bigger day by day and people slipping in the mud. We even saw a cyclist fall off. Horsham Denne Neighbourhood Council has been trying for years to convince WSCC Highways that the obvious solution is to pave this section of the verge. However, we’ve been told it’s an official cycle route and is not intended for walking across. Instead, people should use the subway under North Street into the Park or the signalised crossing by the bus station. We feel that the only way to convince WSCC that paving is necessary is to show them how many people agree. We’ve set up an e-petition and want at least 500 signatures. We’ve already got support from our MP, local Councillors and many organisations, including Collyer’s and the secondary schools, as many of their students use this route. Also, the Pavilions Leisure Centre and postal employees who push their trolleys across here. We also have the backing of the Horsham District Cycle Forum, which sees no conflict with pedestrians. Have you tried the alternatives? The subway is okay, if you want to go to the Park. But it’s not at all convenient if you want to continue along North Street. Using the subway takes longer

TRUDIE MITCHELL (CENTRE) AT THE NORTH STREET CROSSING (©AAH/ALAN WRIGHT) and many people avoid it fearing collision with cyclists, buggies or dogs in the daylight. Also, it is narrow and floods in wet weather. Most people won’t chance using it at all after dark – too many memories of past muggings and drug use.

towards Hurst Road or the town centre. We saw people of all ages – from mothers with young children in buggies, school pupils, commuters in a hurry, to the elderly with walking frames all preferring to brave the mud. Many vehicles slowed down or stopped to allow pedestrians to cross more easily.

The other route that WSCC expect pedestrians to use is the traffic light crossing by In the same period, 42 cyclists rode the bus station. However, this does straight across the muddy grass ‘We saw not feel safe either. It involves verge, to or from the Park. However five cyclists the only official cycle route is from crossing the very wide stretch of road where buses, taxis, drop-off use the official the town centre, turning right to vehicles and cyclists all leave the reach the railway subway. We only route in 15 station car park area, vying to turn saw five cyclists use the official right or left on to North Street. There route – unlikely to collide with 700 hours.’ is no central refuge, so reaching the pedestrians – but someone may have pavement by the bus station is really an accident on the mud. difficult for slower pedestrians. Lastly, but importantly, the crossing is an What to do? As well as our e-petition, you may eyesore on one of the main entry roads into have seen volunteers collecting paper Horsham and for visitors coming from the signatures. But we also need evidence of railway station. Our Neighbourhood Council usage. Thanks to support from The Friends of is closely involved with the Horsham District Horsham Park and their volunteers, we have Council Parks Team and The Friends of been able to conduct two surveys, one in Horsham Park to uphold the gold award status September and the other on a darker day in of the Park and this area should be welcoming, November. Over 15 hours, we compared how accessible and attractive. The verge is part of pedestrians and cyclists use the subway under the long ribbon area which is also carefully North Street versus the crossings at street looked after by volunteers and many hundreds level, talking to many people. of hours of work have been put in by the Friends to improve this entrance. We counted over 700 pedestrians using the street level crossing. About 25% were park The muddy verge is letting our users, but 75% continued along North Street award-winning park down!

Please sign our petition - anyone with a WSCC postcode can sign. https://westsussex.moderngov.co.uk/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?id=58 66 FINAL WORD

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