AAH (All About Horsham) July 2026

TALK OF THE TOWN

There was much intrigue in Horsham town centre when black hoarding was erected at 10 West Street, covering the front of the former Claire’s Accessories shop.

Since then, a vinyl has been added over the hoarding, revealed that neighbours Wakefields Jewellers have taken over the unit and will be expanding. The front of the shop is to remain covered for some time, to conceal extensive renovation and refurbishment work.

Wakefields has been a fixture of West Street since 1911 and has remained a family-run enterprise for over a century. It has been an official Rolex retailer since 2012 and the new extension will provide additional space for private customer areas and event hospitality.

Dominic Wakefield, who owns the business with sister Melanie, said: ‘We initially planned for a less striking display over the shop next door, but the building’s condition has deteriorated considerably, exposing flaking paint and rotting wood. It needs extensive improvement, so we’ve erected the hoarding while we work behind-the-scenes. Although the former Claire’s Accessories unit is comparatively small, the project will see us almost doubling in size of the shop, as we will utilise a passageway to the rear of the store to create a new two-storey extension.

‘In 2020, enforced closure during lockdown enabled us to carry out an extensive refurbishment project without causing much disruption for customers. We will manage this project in a similar fashion, only knocking through walls to link the current shop with the new unit during the project’s final stages.’

Following a successful collaboration six years ago, Wakefields are once again working with Lloyd Blakey (Creative Director at Innovare Design) and Horsham-based carpentry and joinery specialist Martin Leadbeater on the project.

There will not be a second entrance added to the shop, and the new window display will be devoted to the biggest display of Tudor watches in the South East. Tudor is a sister company to Rolex, with both owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. Wakefields’ in-house goldsmiths will move upstairs into a new workshop, closer to the Rolex Authorised Service Centre. There will be more space for Rolex Certified Pre-Owned (RCPO) watches too, owing to increasing demand. Customers can sell or part exchange older Rolex watches.

The on-site Rolex Authorised Service Centre can service older models and even replace non-genuine parts with genuine Rolex components, so that accredited pre-owned models can be sold with a two-year guarantee. Another focus of the expansion will be to enhance the customer experience by providing more private consultation areas.

Dominic said: ‘We want to give people an experience they cannot get elsewhere on the High Street. Every day, we see customers with jewellery that has emotional sentimental value; brides-to-be designing a bespoke ring for their wedding day; and people who have saved for years to own a Rolex for the first time. They appreciate having a private space to discuss personal or financial details with a trained member of staff. We often find ourselves short of private space, so this expansion will allow us to create a more considered environment, ensuring every client receives the privacy and personalised service they deserve.

‘We would also like to host more events. Melanie particularly enjoys entertaining and has held several events highlighting our Tucson collection of gemstones. These have been well received and we’d like to host more, perhaps focusing on watches too. The expansion will give us added flexibility for entertaining, thanks to a new VIP hospitality suite.

‘As well as Rolex, Tudor and RCPO watches, we’re also creating additional space for our jewellery displays. We have been a jeweller’s for over 100 years and although we are very proud to be an official Rolex retailer, maintaining the traditions of our family-run business is just as important.’

INSIDE JULY’S EDITION

WAKEFIELDS

Wakefields Jewellers will be expanding after taking over an adjacent unit on West Street.

Page 3

MUSIC

The DeRosa Music Academy in Horsham offers tuition for a wide range of instruments.

Pages 31 - 33

BUSINESS

After going on Dragon’s Den, family-run business Dog-G8 continues to evolve.

Pages 53 - 56

NEWS

St Catherine’s Hospice holds Midnight Walk and Huxley’s search for Chilean Blue Eagle.

Pages 9 - 18

ALLOTMENTS

Volunteers are helping run a Community Plot at Horsham Shelley Allotments Society.

Pages 37 - 40

CHILDREN

The Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity in Chailey celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Pages 58 - 62

FARM SHOP

Costrong Farm Shop has re-opened in Kirdford, some 20 years after closing.

Pages 22 - 24

TREFOIL GUILD

The Southwater Trefoil Guild offers adults the chance to experience Guiding activities.

Pages 43 - 45

EDITOR’S NOTES

Trying to juggle family life on one of the hottest days in the nation’s history.

Page 65

COVER STORY

CORNERSTONE

The Methodists celebrates 250 years in Horsham with a sermon by “John Wesley”.

Pages 26 - 28

CHEERLEADING

Flitecrew Infinity Cheerleaders soar to new heights by competing at the European Summit.

Pages 47 - 51

FINAL WORD

Oncology nurse Emma Masters will be trekking 100km across Montenegro for charity.

Page 66

Our July 2026 cover features nine-year-old Matilda Parr, a member of Flitecrew Infinity’s Dynamite team. We last visited Flitecrew in 2017, but the cheerleading club has grown exponentially since. We were invited back to The Bridge Leisure Centre by founder Laurel Kennedy, as Flitecrew prepared for a European contest. Members of Flitecrew’s competition sides wore their glittering uniform specially for our visit, providing opportunities for photos of teams and several individuals. Photographer Alan Wright used the green walls as a backdrop for this shot of Matilda, who enjoyed her moment in the spotlight. Other cover options included Peter Bramhill at Cornerstone Methodist Church and Rachel Barr at the Shelley Allotments.

Summer

Escape YOUR STARTS HERE

A full day out in West Sussex, just 10 minutes from Horsham Town Centre.

this summer, step into 240 acres of gardens, lakes, woodland walks and family adventure at Leonardslee.

Wander through colourful summer planting, follow shaded paths around the lakes, spot the wallabies, discover sculpture across the estate and let little explorers b urn off energy in the Play Park. With open lawns, lakeside views, cafés, seasonal activities and plenty of space to slow down, Leonardslee is made for long summer days outdoors.

Across the holidays, families can enjoy a changing programme of summer fun, from nature-inspired activities and trails to hands-on workshops and special events. Whether you are visiting for a relaxed garden walk, a family day out or a full day of discovery, there is something new to find around every corner.

PLAY ALL DAY

The Leonardslee Play Park is included with garden entry and is perfect for younger visitors, with climbing towers, slides, swings, dens and plenty of space for adventure.

SUMMER WINE TASTINGS

From 1 August, enjoy guided wine tasting experiences at Leonardslee House and discover our award-winning English sparkling wines from Leonardslee Family Vineyards. A relaxed way to round off a summer visit, whether you are joining us for the gardens, the views or a well-earned glass.

Make Leonardslee part of your summer and enjoy a day out that feels close to home, but far from ordinary.

24 - 26 JULY

A GREENDER WAY TO TRAVEL

Leave the car behind and enjoy a more relaxed journey to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.

The Stagecoach Bus 17 stops right outside the entrance, making it easy to arrive and explore without the hassle of parking.

Even better, visitors travelling by bus can enjoy 2 for 1 garden entry when they show their valid Stagecoach Bus 17 ticket at reception.

Both visitors must present a Stagecoach Bus 17 ticket dated the same day as their visit to qualify for the offer.

Take on one of the UK’s largest 1000ft inflatable obstacle courses as The Labyrinth Challenge comes to Leonardslee. Bounce, race, slide and laugh your way through a high-energy summer experience, with all-day garden access included.

For more information and to view our upcoming events, visit www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

FROM FIRST STEPS TO WHAT’S NEXT

KNOWN SUPPORTED

I am seen, listened to and valued for who I am.

Foundation Entry Programme

Our new Foundation Entry Programme is designed to help students joining in September 2026 to get up to speed quickly and build academic confidence in their progress. Available for entry into all year groups from Year 6 to Year 9, plus entry into Year 10 to begin GCSE courses in September.

Teaching adapts to how I learn, with meaningful feedback and care built into every day.

Sixth

Form Scholarships

Call our Admissions Team on 01403 282573 to find out about our new Higher Award Academic Scholarships, available from September 2026. Farlington Sixth Form offers a nurturing, academic environment, with flexible payment plans to support affordability, and exceptional outcomes.

FOCUSED PROGRESSING READY

Calm classrooms help me concentrate, grow in confidence and enjoy learning.

My strengths and gaps are identified early, so I can move forward with purpose.

Nursery & Reception Open Morning, Wednesday 23rd September 2026

Whole School Open Morning, Saturday 3rd October 2026

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

I am preparing for the next stage –academically, emotionally and socially.

DISTRICTNEWS

MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE DISTRICT

West Sussex County Council and Horsham District Council are inviting residents to share their views on new proposals to improve road safety on Comptons Lane and Bennetts Road, close to The Forest School, Horsham.

Following a consultation in 2022, the councils have listened to residents’ feedback and updated plans to improve walking, wheeling and cycling in the area.

The scheme has been developed to address the limited space for cyclists and challenges

Jon Dean has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in HM The King’s Birthday Honours List. Jon, Chair of Roundabout Talking News from 1982 - 2024, has been recognised for services to blind and partially sighted residents of Horsham. He said: ‘The honour has come as a complete surprise. It has always been important to me to serve those in need in the community and, since stepping down from RTN, I am happy to see that the charity continues to go from strength to strength.’ horsham.mytn.uk

faced by pedestrians, particularly at school drop-off and pick-up times. The proposals aim to create a safer and more accessible environment for all, especially pupils of The Forest School.

Key ideas include three new parallel crossings for pedestrians and cyclists at the Bennetts Road/Comptons Lane junction, upgrading the existing crossing on Comptons Lane, and at the main school entrance; a new zebra crossing near Highlands Road; improve-

The Labyrinth Challenge, the UK’s biggest inflatable obstacle course, returns to Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, Lower Beeding, on Friday 24 – Sunday 26 July. Race through 1,000ft of obstacles, jumps and slides, featuring 34+ obstacles across five zones in a fun-filled test of skill and stamina. Little ones can explore the all-new Toddler Zone, designed for those under 1.2m. Adults-only sessions will be held on 25 July. Full access to the gardens included in price. www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

ments to the Bennetts Road/Comptons Lane junction layout; segregated cycle routes near the school; and a new 20mph speed limit to create a safer environment.

A consultation runs until 4 August and feedback will help shape the final design. A drop in event will be held in the BEC Auditorium, The Forest School on Wednesday 8 July, 4 – 7pm. You can also complete the online survey at: https://yourvoice.westsussex. gov.uk/comptons-lane-horsham

Huxley’s Birds of Prey Centre in Horsham managed to re-capture a Chilean blue eagle which flew away during the Cowpie Country Show in Lingfield, Surrey, on 14 June. After several positive sightings in the Lingfield area, Cillian was found safe and well in a barn on Saturday 27 June. Chilean blue eagles, also known as black-chested buzzard-eagles, are indigenous to South America. Cillian has a five-foot wing-span and has been a popular resident at the centre for several years. www.huxleysbop.co.uk

AAH News is available in audio format in association with Roundabout Talking News. horsham.mytn.uk

The 34th instalment of the long-standing Horsham Battle of the Bands has begun, with four heats held at The Bedford on 21 and 28 June. Six Original Bands and four Cover Acts will compete in their respective finals in the Human Nature Garden, Horsham Park on Saturday 18 July, from 1pm. Eight Acoustic Originals then go head-to-head in their category on Sunday 19 July, from 1pm.

Co-organiser Jamie ‘Stan’ Stanley said: ‘We have had to have heats in two of the three categories for the first time in a few years. The standard is incredible, as always, so it’s shaping in to be another epic final weekend!’ www.horshambotb.co.uk

The Fred Woods Big Band will play at Picnic on the Square at Horsham Cricket and Sports Club on Sunday 23 August, 2 – 7pm. Hosted by the Ryan Canter Club, a locally-based fleet concierge service, the picnic is held in aid of the Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity. The club bar and kitchen will be open. Tickets £15 in advance (£20 on the day) from keith@ryanvehicles.com

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Join one of our Heritage Guides on a free ninety-minute walk in Horsham town centre and hear about some of Horsham’s fascinating history. Meet at 2.30pm outside Horsham Museum, Causeway, on any Wednesday or Sunday from now until the end of September.

A guide will be there to welcome you, whatever the weather. Booking is not required.

Queries to: events@horshamsociety.org

Spy Horsham Town Centre Animals

A trail for younger children, including those in buggies. Can you find the 12 animals represented around the town centre? The trail is available from Horsham Museum at 60p.

www.horshamsociety.org

About 700 people took part in the St Catherine’s Hospice Midnight Walk in Horsham on 6 June. Participants chose from 2, 7, 13 or 17-mile routes, all starting and finishing at The Bridge Leisure Centre in Broadbridge Heath and passing through Horsham town centre. Along the way, volunteers lined the route, offering encouragement that helped walkers push on through the night. Many walked in memory of someone close to them and a memory wall was filled with photos and tributes to loved ones. At the end of the walk, challengers were given a medal before enjoying a celebratory breakfast with a glass of prosecco. The event raised about £150,000 for the hospice. stch.org.uk/events

Giles Tomsett, Chief Executive of St Catherine’s Hospice, will retire from his role in January 2027. Giles joined the hospice 12 years ago after being inspired by personal experience of hospice care. He has led the organisation through significant milestones, most notably its 2016 rebranding and the opening of the new hospice in Pease Pottage. In recent years, St Catherine’s has been impacted by the hospice funding crisis. Despite this, and thanks to the support of the community, the organisation developed a new model of specialist palliative care. The process to appoint Giles’ successor has begun. stch.org.uk

Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham has installed a new sensory pod at both its Comptons Lane site and its new College for older pupils on Hurst Road. A sensory pod is a calming environment which helps regulate pupils’ emotions and supports the needs of pupils with severe and profound and multiple learning difficulties. Each pod costs about £10,500, with £4,730 of the cost of each pod raised by March & Darnley and Carfax lodges of the Horsham Freemasons. The remainder was provided by a grant of £5,770 from the Trustees of the Sussex Masonic Charitable Foundation. Pictured are W. Bro John Davis (Carfax Lodge 7819), Sarah Garwood (QEII governor), W. Bro Rob Davies (March & Darnley Lodge 1141), Ellie Capas (deputy head at QEII) and QEII School pupils.

TOOVEY’S

Restaurant Interlude, the Michelin-starred restaurant set within Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens in Lower Beeding, has been placed 80th in the National Restaurant Awards. These are judged by a panel of over 200 leading chefs, restaurateurs, critics and food writers. Restaurant Interlude is led by South African-born chef Jean Delport, whose philosophy is rooted in hyper-seasonality, wild foraging and using estate-grown ingredients to create narrative, nature-driven menus. www.restaurant-interlude.co.uk

Love You, Bye opened at 21 Piries Place, Horsham, on 21 May. The new venture – at the unit previously occupied by Darcy’s Wine Bar – is owned by India Da Silva, who also runs WolfPack in the Carfax. The bar serves a wide range of cocktails and mocktails, spirits, wine (including local varieties by House Coren), beers and soft drinks. It also serves sharing platters and Afternoon Tea, including home-made scones with clotted cream & strawberry jam. www.loveyoubye.uk

The Fountain Inn at Ashurst has a new chef. Ben Miller joins with over 30 years of culinary experience under his belt, having previously worked at renowned venues including Amberley Castle, Danesfield House, Restaurant One - O - One in Knightsbridge and The Bath Spa Hotel, where he achieved two AA Rosettes. Ben (who inherited his passion for cooking from his father, who was the Executive Chef at The Ritz) has also worked as a chef in Sydney and Bangkok.

cooking was

where he reached the semi-finals.

In recent years, Ben has worked at leading local establishments including The George at Burpham. At The Fountain, he will continue to deliver delicious honest food, using seasonal and local produce where possible, drawing on his classical training and his taste and travel experiences from around the world. www.fountainashurst.com

A new mural has been painted at Attree Hide, part of the Discovery Hub at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. The mural was created by Sussex-based artist Lauren Carr. The mural features the millpond as well as a heron, kingfisher, great crested grebe, Emperor dragonfly, common tern and marsh frog.

The Sussex Steam Rally returns to Parham Park, Pulborough, RH20 4HR, on Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 July. There will be a variety of exhibits from steam traction engines to vintage vehicles, with trade stalls, local crafts and a funfair. sussexsteamrally.co.uk

The Central Southern Section of Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club bring a collection of vehicles to Amberley Museum on Wednesday 8 July. amberleymuseum.co.uk

Sussex Green Living is teaming up with conservation group Wild About Warnham to provide a free guided butterfly walk in Warnham on Sunday 19 July.

The Big Butterfly Count, run by Butterfly Conversation, is an annual survey when everyone is encouraged to go outdoors to count butterflies in a 15-minute period. Counts can be held in a garden, local park or in the countryside between 17 July – 9 August. A local Big Butterfly Walk will help people spot a variety of butterflies, learning about their needs and habitats. All are welcome. Book at: https://SGLbigbutterflywalk.eventbrite.co.uk

Nine years after its foundation, The Friends of Horsham Park have unveiled a new logo that “better represents what the group has become”. The logo combines two tree shapes to create an H for Horsham, while also resembling two people standing side-by-side. The group also has a new livery made up of the park’s flora and fauna, alongside symbols like skateboards. The new identity was created by Zoë Dawson. friendsofhorshampark.co.uk

Horsham Eagles FC’s women’s walking football group are keen to welcome new faces. Founded in 2017, the Eagles meet at The Holbrook Club in Horsham every Monday evening, at 7 – 8pm. The sessions offer a low-pressure, sociable way to stay active. No previous footballing experience is necessary, and the current membership of around 50 in both walking and recreational teams includes players who had never previously kicked a football. The club is offering newcomers two free training sessions. For details, call Tracey on 07962 118168. horshameagles.co.uk

Horsham Bridge Club is holding an Open Day at The Bridge Leisure Centre, Broadbridge Heath, on Monday 13 July. Anyone can come along to “Bridge at The Bridge” to enjoy a taster lesson and find out about courses for beginners and improvers. The event is held throughout the day and evening. Donations to MNDA. For details, call 07396 821375.

Definition Aesthetics has opened a second treatment room at its clinic in Old House Mews, London Road, Horsham. The business, with offers advanced skin and aesthetic treatments, celebrated its 10th anniversary in June. It was founded in Crawley by aesthetic nurse and former beauty therapist Laura Price, with the Horsham clinic opening last August. Since then, the London Road clinic has seen strong demand, prompting the addition of a second treatment room. Laura said: ‘The response from Horsham has been incredible. Demand has exceeded expectations, so opening another room was a necessity. I have now moved to Horsham too, because it’s a fantastic town with a supportive community.’ Alongside the clinic, an on-site Definition Aesthetics Academy provides training to the next generation of beauty and aesthetics professionals. www.definitionaesthetics.com

Horsham Museum has a new temporary exhibition featuring astrophotography by Claire Bradshaw. Learn about the life cycles of stars while experiencing photos of celestial objects, captured by Claire from her Horsham home. Museum of Time: An Astrophotography Trail ends on 29 August. horshammuseum.org

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir perform a Gilbert & Sullivan Gala concert at St Mary’s Church, Causeway on Saturday 11 July, 7.30pm. The choir will be accompanied by the Orpheus Sinfonia, soprano Beth Lewin and baritone Jon Openshaw. Tickets £20 (U16s free). westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

SongBuilders host Build an Opera, a unique summer holiday course, at Sullington Manor Barn, Sullington Lane, Storrington, from Monday 27 – Friday 31 July. Children will devise, compose, design, paint and perform a new piece of musical theatre. The workshop is led by opera singer Mark Bradbury and composer Christopher Hussey. www.songbuilders.co.uk

An evening of jazz-inspired musical flair is held at St Andrew’s Church, Nuthurst, on Friday 17 July, 6 – 8pm. The Stradivarius Piano Trio perform with guests including vocalist Anando Mukerjee and saxophonists Julian Nicholas and Arnon Bentovim, playing music by the likes of George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Thelonious Monk. Tickets £25. bernardimusicgroup.com

Katie Kirby celebrates the paperback release of the 8th Lottie Brooks book, Lottie Brooks and the Ultra Mean Girls, with a signing event at Steyning Bookshop on Tuesday 7 July. Tickets £8.99. steyningbookshop.co.uk

of Aretha Franklin and Chic, as well as contemporary tracks by artists including Jill

Puppy. In aid of West Sussex North MND Association. Free entry, families welcome.

and

Distribution & Deliveries

Pick up a free copy of AAH from our bespoke stands, located across the Horsham District.

Horsham Town stands: Swan Walk (outside M&S and D&D Cafe); Henry Adams, At Home Estate Agents, Crates Local (all Carfax), Gwyn’s Bakery, Johansson’s Cafe (Bishopric); Jones & Tomlin Horsham (Medwin Walk), John Lewis, Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, Horsham Football Club, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, Holbrook Club, Steban’s Salon District Stands: Newbridge Nurseries, The Bridge (BBH), Shades Barbers, Revival (Southwater), Southwater Library, 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 (West Chiltington) Golden Plaice (Ashington), Rusper Village Stores, Roffey News & Post Office, 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 Shop (Dial Post), The Clubhouse (Kilnwood Vale), Fishers Farm (Wisborough Green).

Supermarkets: AAH is also available at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath & Sainsbury’s in Horsham, in partnership with Self Select Distribution.

Household delivery team: Jacquie Paterson, Tom Thorne, Oliver Matson, Alec Baker, Walker family, Ben Raymond, Ellis Raymond, Browning family, Katie Drysdale, Palmer family, Jill Shuker, Jobanputra family, Dolan family, Jackie Fisher and Sam Dales.

Editorial & Advertising

a former Forest pupil and a life-long resident of the District.

Editorial: Ben Morris

editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Tel: (01903) 892899

Address: 2 Viney Close, Ashington, West Sussex, RH20 3PT

Photography: Alan Wright Alan works for AAH on a freelance basis and can be booked for all commercial work. alan.wright@alanwrightphotography.co.uk www.alanwrightphotography.co.uk

Advertising: Ben Morris

advertising@aahorsham.co.uk

Tel: (01903) 892899

Advertising rates (per month/edition)

Eighth page: £60 + vat

Quarter page: £115 + vat

Half page: £195 + vat

Full page: £340 + vat

We offer every 6th advert free of charge.

Advertising deadline for August’s AAH: 14 July

AAH August 2026: August’s edition will be published on Saturday 1 August at www.aahorsham.co.uk

Printed copies will be distributed from Monday 3 August.

As part of National Volunteers’ Week, Horsham District Council’s Voluntary Sector Support team hosted an awards evening at Slinfold Golf and Country Club on 4 June, recognising the work of local volunteers.

Winners included Sean Orr of Menshare Listening Group (Community Champion Award), Billingshurst Emergency Assistance Team (Dream Team), Lillian Millar of Cancer Research UK (Long Service), Jane Beasley of Henfield Electric Community Car Club (Above and Beyond) Tara Clark of Henfield Youth Club’s ‘Quiet Night’ (Rising Star), Tom Murray of Horsham Matters (Trustee of the Year), Nathan Hughson of Huxley’s Foundation CIO (Young Volunteer) and Henry Johnston of

One year ago, AAH teamed up with Roundabout Talking News, a Horshambased charity that has supported the visually-impaired community since 1978. Every week, local news from AAH and West Sussex County Times, together with a magazine show, is recorded and distributed free of charge. You can listen via the RTN website, Amazon Alexa or by phone. Registered blind listeners can opt for a memory stick to be delivered, also free of charge. horsham.mytn.uk

A number of volunteering opportunities are available in the Horsham District. Amberley Museum needs a Grounds and Maintenance volunteer; Horsham Matters are looking for individuals to help in their ‘‘Love it Again’ charity shop; Turning Tides seek new Trustees. For details and other opportunities, email volunteering@horshamdistrict.gov.uk

Cancer Research UK (VSS Special Recognition). Awards were presented by Lady Emma Barnard (Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex), Gary Shipton (High Sheriff of West Sussex), and Cllr Joanne Knowles (HDC Chair).

l Huxley’s Bird of Prey Centre was delighted that one of its volunteers, Nathan Hughson, was among the winners. As a young, neurodiverse person, Nathan was facing challenges with his education that impacted his confidence. However, he has become a much-valued member of the volunteer team, presenting educational talks to the public at ‘meet a bird’ sessions and helping to run flying displays. Huxley’s welcome any new volunteers. Apply at huxleysbop.co.uk/pages/volunteering

The challenges of restoring an abandoned and much-loved bicycle will be the subject of a Friends of Horsham Museum & Art Gallery talk at London Road Cornerstone Chapel, Horsham, on Wednesday 29 July, 2pm. Jeff Thomas reveals how he found an abandoned tandem and the challenges he faced to restore the vehicle. Known as Daisy, the tandem – an F. H Grubb of Brixton model - will be on display. Admission £5, including refreshments.

Storrington Flower Club meet at Storrington & Sullington Parish Hall, RH20 3PP, on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 2pm, except August and December. On 22 July, Gill Homer presents ‘Just Because…’, with Graham King’s talk on ‘Beauty in Sculpture’ on 23 September. Visitors welcome (£8). Call Chrissy Desmond on (01903) 742102.

SOLARGIFT

SUSSEX SOLAR INSTALLS PV PANELS AT SCOUT

Sussex Solar has donated and installed eight new solar panels to the roof of Gummy’s Hut at Beacon Hill Scout Campsite, Colgate.

The hut is the focal point of the popular campsite, where generations of Scouting groups from across the Horsham District experience a range of outdoor activities.

The solar system, gifted by Horsham-based, family-owned renewable energy specialists Sussex Solar, will help the campsite to run more sustainably, while also generating much-needed funds from export payments.

Paul Banyard, Campsite Warden, said: ‘Horsham is one of the largest Scouting Districts in Sussex, with groups throughout the town as well as villages such as Rudgwick, Broadbridge Heath, Shipley and Cowfold, covering the full age range from Squirrels to Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers. All of these groups can utilise the campsite. In the summer, many organise weekend camping trips and take part in activities such as archery, caving and climbing. Some groups come here instead of their regular venues too, so young people can play outside in all weathers, as we have 36 acres of woodland and playing fields on the fringes of St Leonard’s Forest.

‘We’re very grateful to the support of Sussex Solar. Our Scouts are always finding ways to promote sustainability, even using felled timber to create points of interest around the

‘Scouts always promote sustainability, so it’s important that our campsite pavilion is now powered by solar energy too.’

campsite grounds. So, it’s important that our pavilion is now powered by solar energy too.’

Dominic Baxter spent many happy years as a Cub, Scout and Explorer with 6th Horsham. He’s now a Director at Sussex Solar, which offers solar, battery and heat pump solutions for homes and businesses across the region. When Dominic heard about the need for renewable energy at the campsite, he offered the company’s services, free of charge.

Dominic said: ‘I have fond memories of the Beacon Hill campsite, particularly weekend camping trips. We used to just play football and have a BBQ, but it was great to be outside with friends. Now, Scouts enjoy all kinds of activities at Beacon Hill, with the climbing wall being the latest edition. It has changed a lot, although it still has the same feel.

‘When we heard of the need for renewable energy at the campsite, we were delighted to help. We’ve installed eight 470W panels on the roof, which fit neatly in landscape

positions, with a 3.5KW inverter to convert DC power into usable AC power. Despite the woodland setting, the hut is set back away from the shade of surrounding trees for much of the day, so will attract plenty of sunlight.

‘On a summer’s day, this should provide enough power for all the campsite’s needs. In winter, the panels will produce enough to power lower energy consuming appliances, such as security cameras and outside lighting. Some of the power can be sold back to the National Grid and this will raise more funds for the Scouts, especially as the panels are warranted for 25 years.’

Scouting in Horsham remains as popular as ever, although Leaders are seeking more adult volunteers in the District.

David Lawton, also a Campsite Warden, said: ‘The opportunities that volunteering has given me have been incredible. This year alone, we have enjoyed a trip to the Gower Peninsula in Wales, as well as coasteering, hiking and camping weekends at Beacon Hill. It doesn’t matter how much time you can commit – it can be a couple of hours a month or a regular weekly commitment – we always find a role for willing volunteers, especially those with the skills and experience to assist in important committee roles.’

If you can help, please visit the website at www.horshamscouts.com to find out more.

COSTRONG FARM SHOP RE-OPENS IN KIRDFORD VILLAGE FRESH START

Costrong Farm Shop has re-opened in the village of Kirdford near Billingshurst, some 20 years after it last closed its doors.

The farm has been bought by David and Carrie Pegley, who already own adjacent farmland. David is the owner of construction and civil engineering specialists Pegley Groundworks Ltd. Although the company’s offices are based at the family’s home in Wisborough Green, the couple also own farmland in Kirdford. Some of this is used to store machinery, although most is used for grazing by David’s herd of Belted Galloway beef cattle, and Carrie’s flock of Border Leicester sheep.

David said: ‘We already rent about 70 acres and use another 40 acres for grazing for our own animals. I started out working in agricultural machinery some 50 years ago, before moving into construction for economic reasons. However, our love for farming has always remained and it’s something we enjoy doing alongside the construction business.

‘When this additional land was put up for sale, we knew that we wanted it, but the question was what to do with the old nursery and farm shop. We decided to re-open the shop and see what happens.’

Carrie is leading the farm shop team, while sons William and Jamie are both involved in the business too. Having sourced a hodgepodge of tables, chairs, cabinets and other furniture for seating and displays, the

shop is now offering produce from a wide range of local suppliers, including Crosbies (cakes and bakes in Chiddingfold), gins from the Silent Pool distillery in Guildford, Loft Pickles & Jams in Washington, Silly Moo cider from Trenchmore Farm in Cowfold, Sussex Crisp Company in Bodiam, organic milk from Goodwood, and dairy products from Bookham Harrison Farms (including South Downs butter and Sussex Charmer cheese) and High Weald Dairy.

Carrie said: ‘Locals still remember Costrong Farm shop and nursery, which sold fruit, vegetables, herbs and plants. It closed about 20 years ago and the site has been largely derelict since then. We decided that we were going to re-open the farm shop, but we know it would be difficult to survive just by selling fruit and vegetables grown in the nursery.

‘So, as well as offering meat and vegetables from our own farm – as well as cheeses, milk, bread, fruit and vegetables from other local suppliers – we have partnered with artists and

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and light lunches at the weekends. This area attracts a lot of cyclists and walkers, so we’ll see how the farm shop evolves and respond to the needs of visitors.’

NURSERY ROOTS

craftspeople to offer a wide range of gifts. We have beautiful ceramics by Petworth-based artist Sarah McKenzie, titanium jewellery by Churchill’s Workshop, and artisan metalwork from a small Petworth company. We are working with another local company, Park and Co, for our coffee too. On Thursdays and Fridays, we will be serving bacon rolls and hope to soon introduce a cooked breakfast

The family also plan to restore the on-site plant nursery back to its former glory. As well as growing fresh fruit and vegetables for the shop, the nursery – overseen by Richard Thomas– will grow plants and flowers for sale, with wildflowers in one of the vine-laden poly-tunnels being utilised for café customers.

Carrie said: ‘This isn’t the most glamorous place in the world, as we want people to feel that they are visiting a farm. But it has great character, with beautiful vines draped

After 19 years, Costrong Farm Shop is back in the village of Kirdford, having been beautifully renovated under new ownership.

Our new farm shop includes a coffee shop, nursery plants and gifts, plus a fantastic range of fresh, local produce.

l Home-bred organic beef, pork, lamb

l Free-range chicken

l Organic dairy, cheeses and butter

l Local honey, jams, chutneys & pickles

Coming this Summer: A dog-friendly walking trail around the lake, vineyard and woodland.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

overhead, grazing animals in the surrounding fields, with family tractors and horsecarts too. We have lots of plans to utilise the space in future too. Visitors will be able to pick a bunch of wildflowers, or rent space to grow their own produce in one of the greenhouses. We also hope to introduce a dog walking area around the lake later this year. Already, lots of local people have visited to see what we’re doing, and we hope to become a community hub over the coming years.’

Further information:

Visit Costrong Farm Shop & Nursery, Plaistow Road, Kirdford, RH14 0LA

Open Thursdays - Sundays, 9.30am - 3.30pm costrongfarmshop

Say goodbye to dry eye at Specsavers Horsham

Most of us have heard of dry eye, and for those that have it, it can be extremely frustrating and uncomfortable to live with.

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not create enough tears, or your tears evaporate too quickly. These tears are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, comfortable and healthy.

Additionally, as contradictory as it sounds, dry eye can also cause watery eyes. This is primarily caused by the surface of the eye being irritated, or too dry, which triggers the tear glands to produce a flood of reflex tears.

Common symptoms of dry eye include:

l Dryness and a sandy feeling

l Burning or stinging sensation

l Redness

l Blurred vision that improves with blinking

l Eye twitching

l Watery eyes

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you could have dry eye.

‘ The process was so simple, in fact, it was actually enjoyable. It was like having a spa for my eyes and eyelids.’

How ZEST can help conquer dry eyes

Whilst drops and other treatments are good at dealing with the symptoms, Specsavers Horsham now offer a longer lasting treatment that can give instant relief. ZEST, or Zocular Eyelid System Treatment, is a gentle new treatment performed in-store to clean and refresh the eyelids .

One of Specsavers’ recent ZEST customers explains more: “I’ve had dry eye for a while. I could feel it getting worse day by day. The dry, gritty feeling I had led me to rub my eyes until they were red. This left me with temporary distorted vision and sore eyes.

“I’ve used drops over the years and although these have been a good short-term fix, I was finding I was using them more and more. After my recent visit to Specsavers Horsham, my optician recommended that I try a new technique that would relieve my dry eye much more effectively.

“As someone who is apprehensive of medical procedures, I was concerned at first, but after learning this process doesn’t involve any intimidating machines, I was much more relaxed. The process was so simple, in fact, it was actually enjoyable. It was like having a spa for my eyes and eyelids. I learnt that the ingredients in the gel are Okra-based which is anti–inflammatory and anti-bacterial.

“The gel gently broke down all the build-up of tiny particles in my lashes by using a soft brush which they meticulously brushed over both

lids, and both eyes. Next, my eyes were gently refreshed using a saline solution that was easy and pain free.

“The results were staggering. My eyes felt lighter, the gritty feeling had gone, and I can only describe my vision as feeling like ‘High Definition’, it was like looking out of freshly cleaned glasses.

“It’s been four months since having the treatment and my eyes still feel wonderful. I know that I may need the ZEST treatment again in the future, but for now the results are incredible.”

If you would like to book in for a ZEST treatment, simply call the store on 01403 275115 or for more information please visit us at 2 Worthing Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1SL.

To find out more or book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/horsham or call (01403) 275115 Open 7 days a week, 9am – 5.30pm (9.30am Fridays) 2 Worthing Road, Horsham, RH12 1SL

METHOD ACTOR

METHODIST CHURCH CELEBRATES 250 YEARS IN HORSHAM

Cornerstone Methodist Church has held a series of events to celebrate 250 years of Methodism in Horsham.

Highlights included a special service, with preacher Peter Bramhill wearing traditional clerical attire as he delivered a sermon as John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. This was one of several events held during ‘Wesley Weekend’ in May, which also included a radio play and a lunch for the congregation of the three Cornerstone Methodist Churches in the District –London Road in Horsham, St Andrew’s in Roffey, and Partridge Green.

Deacon Sarah Eastol said: ‘John Wesley’s Forty-Four Sermons is a foundational text of the Methodist movement, with preachers required to study at least one of its sermons in depth. As part of our anniversary celebrations, Peter delivered an abridged version of a famous sermon that focuses on the church’s mission, using original text from the mid-18th Century.

‘Peter delivered an abridged version of a famous sermon that focuses on the church’s mission, using original text from the mid-18th Century.’

‘While such events have a novelty value, we hope they will also raise the profile of Methodism, helping more local people to understand what is different about the Church. Wesley was very inclusive for his time and broke convention. He fought for social justice by establishing schools for the poor and promoting healthcare, even publishing medical handbooks, as he believed that medicine should be accessible to all. He organised the working classes too, and the trade union movement in the UK is largely derived from Methodism.

‘The church has evolved over the past 250 years. However, Methodism remains a grassroots form of Christianity passionate about social justice. We support LGBTQ+ inclusion and celebrate same-sex marriages, and were among the first Christian denominations to allow women preachers. Anybody who feels a call to preach can become a Methodist preacher, while our Communion Table is open to all, regardless of background.’

WARM FEELING

The Methodist Church was founded by Anglican clergyman and brothers John and Charles Wesley, in the mid-18th Century. Although it was the elder brother who became the eventual figurehead, Charles played a pivotal role too. He is also remembered as a hymn writer, with perhaps his best-known being Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, derived from a composition by Mendelssohn.

Bramhill at John Wesley (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Although Methodists adopted many traditional elements of Christianity, some of their views brought them into conflict with the established order. John Wesley’s views could now be perceived as progressive, as he spoke out about the slave trade, supported women preachers and warned of the dangers of alcohol abuse (Methodists were pioneers in the teetotal temperance movement).

The first mention of Methodism in Horsham dates back to 1776, making this year the 250th anniversary. A preacher from Rudgwick held outside meetings near the Town Hall. Services were later held in a barn on Hampers Farm, near the rail station. However, it wasn’t until the 1830s that Methodism became a more significant movement in the town, when

Miss Kate Ireland bought land in London Road with the purpose of building a chapel, which opened in 1832.

The success of the church’s Sunday School led to the original chapel being demolished in 1881, with a new one built in 1883. Further chapels were built in Roffey (this became St Andrew’s) Rusham’s Road (which closed in 1911) and East Street (closed in 1933). Of those built in the surrounding villages, only Partridge Green (built 1906) remains. In Horsham, the Wesleyan Sunday School was hugely popular, with 223 children and 16 teachers recorded in 1895. The Wesley Guild was well-attended too, hosting talks, lectures and outings, while the

ACTOR

John was inspired to found Methodism after travelling to Georgia (in what was then known as the American colonies) as a Christian missionary. Here, he met Moravian settlers and was struck by their deep faith, inner strength and the conviction of their preaching methods. Having returned home questioning his faith, Wesley felt his heart “strangely warmed” during a Moravian meeting in Aldersgate Street, London. This was to become an important event in the founding of the Methodist Church.

A short time later, he delivered a sermon of his own, based on personal salvation by faith. Wesley’s sermons, often conducted in open spaces, particularly connected with the working classes and Church of England dissenters, leading to the formation of the Methodist Society of England. The first Methodist chapels appeared in the early 1740s, and the Wesley brothers attracted more converts as they travelled around the country by horse and cart, giving open-air sermons.

Wesley Guild Orchestra attracted musicians from around the town. The Horsham Teachers Centre was founded at London Road in 1904, helping many women become teachers, as well as girls wishing to continue their education. This centre provided the foundation for the Horsham High School for Girls, based at the church until Tanbridge House was bought in 1924. When the church celebrated 100 years of worship at London Road in 1932, it had an evening congregation of around 250 people, along with a thriving youth club, choir, and hockey and gym clubs.

In 1961, the Young Wives Club was founded, with a créche running for over 30 years. In 1972, a playgroup was founded by Anne Roos, wife of Revd Eddie Roos. To cope with the demand for places, a new Wesley Hall was built, providing more space for the Sunday School and the various organisations using the building. The Church has continued to support a wide range of events and activities, founding the Horsham Christian Centre (instrumental in building Horsham YMCA) and hosting the Community Fridge. In 2023, the church was given a new name, with Cornerstone Methodist Church bringing together London Road, St Andrew’s in Roffey and Partridge Green Methodist Church. The Meeting Place was opened too, hosting the Connecting Café on Tuesdays.

RADIO STARS

As well as Peter Bramhill’s sermon as John Welsey, London Road also hosted a radio play as part of its Wesley Weekend. The Wesley Story was based on the life of Susanna

Wesley, mother of John and Charles. The play begins with John aged six, with the family trying to stop a fire at the Rectory where they live. The script was created using AI, based on an original play now believed lost.

Sarah said: ‘When we talked about the 250th anniversary, a member of our congregation remembered performing a play about Susanna Wesley at Tenterden Methodist church. Unfortunately, nobody could find it! The community came together in an attempt to track it down. However, its writer had passed away and a copy never materialised. I used an AI programme to re-write the play, based on what people could recall of it, and

this was later edited by people who made it much better! As for our 250th celebrations, we are also organising a songwriting and poetry competition, with entries performed at a ‘Born in Song Concert’ in September. We are also planning a 5km walk around Horsham in September, giving people a chance to learn about the role that Methodists have played in the town’s history.’

Further information: Find out more about Cornerstone Methodists Church at www.cornerstone-mc.org.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography

Words: Ben Morris

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DEROSA MUSIC ACADEMY IN HORSHAM CONTINUES TO EXPAND STRIKE A CHORD

The DeRosa Music Academy opened in Park Street, Horsham, last November. AAH met franchise owner Emma Gordon to find out more about the Academy…

What is DeRosa Music Academy?

The business was founded in 2015 by John Bliss, with the first Academy opening in Bishop’s Stortford. The idea was to create musical hubs for adults and children in a town centre location. By offering tuition for various instruments under one roof, John created a different environment to a school classroom or that offered by private tutors. The idea was that people would enjoy the experience of learning an instrument.

What’s the format?

In Horsham, we have five rooms available for tuition, and these are available to selfemployed tutors throughout the week. Rather than teaching privately, tutors can benefit from the marketing and online booking system of a well-established Academy. It’s these administrative elements that musicians tend to find most tedious! Also, tutors and students can come together to create a vibrant environment where they can share ideas and talk about music.

What instruments can people learn?

In Horsham, we offer tuition for drums, piano, flute, electric and acoustic guitar, ukulele and bass. We also have a singing coach, and offer music theory and music production tuition.

In the holidays, we run a range of summer schools and workshops, with occasional showcases that give people the chance to show off their skills to family and friends.

How many tutors do you work with?

We have seven teachers, but as we only have five rooms, they balance tuition around other commitments. The team includes Assistant Director Kim (who teaches guitar, drums and bass), Nicole (singing), Paul (guitar, bass and drums), Ann (piano and flute), Monica (piano), Olly (drums), Joshua (guitar, bass and ukulele) and Bobbie (singing and musical theatre).

We also have an apprentice, Mikey, who is passionate about music and hopes to follow in Kim’s footsteps by achieving a Level 3 Apprenticeship and becoming a tutor in the

future. Other Academies may also teach instruments such as cello, violin, clarinet and saxophone. So far, demand in Horsham has been for guitar, drums and piano. However, if that was to change, we could work with more tutors in future.

‘We

You also have a shop area?

Most DeRosa Academies have a shop and they vary from one town to the next. In Horsham, it was important to offer instruments for beginners, so we have a range of affordable electric and acoustic guitars, as well as ukuleles. We already stock Brunswick guitars and hope to soon introduce Tanglewood guitars too. We also sell accessories such as guitar straps, strings and picks. As it has been a while since Horsham had a music shop, people have been supportive, as they would rather by locally than online.

How many DeRosa Academies are there?

The 10th Academy will be opening soon. Most are in the south east, but we are the only one in Sussex. The founder is an old friend of mine and asked if I would consider running a franchise. I must confess that I’m not a musician and have little previous experience in business or retail, having worked as an educational support worker for 30 years. So, running an Academy was out of my comfort zone. But the opportunity sounded exciting and my father and my partner – who both have extensive business experience – were supportive from the outset.

Why choose Horsham?

Although I live in Burgess Hill, I’ve spent years working at a secondary school in Horsham. John was looking to expand his business and told me that the format worked best in market towns. So, I thought Horsham was the ideal location. There’s nothing else quite like it in the District, so we knew there was a good opportunity. We hit the ground running and having opened in November 2025, now have 125 students and are starting to establish a wonderful community within the Academy.

Further information:

To find out more about the range of tuition available at DeRosa Horsham, visit: derosamusichorsham.co.uk

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PLOT THICKENS

SHELLEY ALLOTMENTS GROWS POPULAR COMMUNITY AREA

Shelley Allotments is a site of around 160 plots off Redford Avenue, Horsham. Last year, the volunteer-run Horsham Shelley Allotments Society (HSAS) re-opened a community plot. AAH met members of the committee, as well as volunteers, to find out more…

The Shelley allotments are hidden from passing traffic, accessible only via a narrow driveway. However, it’s one of the biggest allotments in town, with 135 individual plot-holders across its seven acres, growing a wide range of fruits, vegetables and herbs. There’s even a luxury chicken coop, known as Cluckingham Palace.

The site was initially designated for allotments as part of the ‘Dig for Victory’ campaign, when citizens were encouraged to grow fruit and veg to combat food shortages during the war. Although the land is owned by Horsham District Council, day-to-day operations are managed by the HSAS, founded in 1948.

Chris Morris, Treasurer, said: ‘Managing an allotment plot requires commitment. It can be very rewarding, but you reap what you sow and those who can’t put enough time into it won’t enjoy all the benefits.

‘Many people like the idea of an allotment, but it can be difficult to find the time to manage a plot around work and family commitments, which is why it tends to suit people as they get older. However, if you do have the time, it’s a great way to escape the hubbub of life and spend time outdoors.

‘The focus of allotment societies has changed too. Nowadays, there’s no urgent need to grow fresh produce to help the nation, as we can order potatoes and have them delivered to our front door in five minutes! Instead, the social and community benefits are more important, and people use allotments to meet new people and spend quality time outside.’

COMMUNITY PLOT

Rachel Barr has managed a plot at Shelley Allotments for nearly a decade. The 10-rod plot (one rod equates to about 25 square metres) is amongst the biggest on site and she uses it to grow strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants, asparagus, courgettes and beans, as well as fresh flowers.

Rachel also helps oversee the community plot. Located close to a shed which acts as a meeting point for the Society, the community plot provides opportunities for volunteers to grow fresh produce in a welcoming environment.

Rachel said: ‘The HSAS committee felt it would benefit the community if we could provide a plot where anyone can get involved. That could be someone who can no longer manage their own plot but still enjoys the social aspects of the allotments; someone who wants to grow produce but doesn’t have a garden of their own; or someone who likes spending time outside and wants to connect with like-minded people, as we all know the mental health benefits. We already had a small community plot, which included a poly-tunnel and greenhouse. When an adjacent plot

given up, we took the chance to extend it. We now use it to grow strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants, rhubarb, sweet peas, potatoes and leaks, as well as tomatoes, cucumbers and aubergines in the poly-tunnel. We also grow flowers and hope to create a herb garden in future too. As it’s for the community, much of what is grown is donated to the Horsham Food Bank, along with glut from other plots.’

SOCIAL BENEFITS

Tricia Osgood is one of the volunteers. Trish was a hairdresser in the Roffey area before moving to Cornwall. After years away, she returned to Horsham to be close to her grandchildren. To help meet new people and spend more time outdoors, Trish searched for local volunteering opportunities through a social subscriber, who felt the allotments were a perfect fit...

Tricia said: ‘I didn’t know anything about gardening, but knew I wanted to be outside. I came along for the first time last June and hit it off with Rachel immediately. Even though I have family in the area, I was quite lonely, so the allotments have saved me, in a way. Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming, and I’ve

‘I attend every Wednesday and Rachel doesn’t expect too much of me. There’s no pressure – I just do what I can – and I’m always laughing with other volunteers. For me, it’s about companionship and friendship. I lived in a Cornish village where everyone knew everyone, and feel that same sense of community at the allotments.’

GREEN INITIATIVES

The growing sense of community has been further aided by summer barbecues and regular working parties, where plot owners come together to focus on a particular

area of the site, perhaps clearing a dead hedge or a derelict plot. Seed swaps provide another opportunity to share ideas, as well as produce. HSAS has introduced several green initiatives too. These include new composting areas and solar panels on the shed, while chemicals and synthetic materials have been banned on site.

Nick Leach, Chair of the Society, said: ‘We want to be ecologically responsible. Three years ago, when I first became actively involved, we endured a hot spell from May to July and used almost 750,000 litres of mains water. As well as being morally irresponsible, it was

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expensive and treated water isn’t really best for plants either. So, we are now working towards becoming self-sufficient and water neutral. We secured grant funding for Industrial Bulk Containers (IBCs) which can store 1,000 litres of water, and introduced six across the site. We plan to add more, so that every plot owner will be within a short walk of rainwater, as we move towards water neutrality.

‘There is also a stream around the site which feeds into Red River, so we have an ambitious idea to build an artesian well in future, with the long-term goal of being water positive. In addition to all of these sustainable schemes, we try to achieve a good balance to ensure that this is a fun and sociable place to be.’

FANTASTIC FOXES

The Society is also trying to create a green corridor to help protect wildlife. Despite its urban surroundings, the allotments are rich in fauna, as well as flora. Joy Carter grows a variety of produce on her plot, from Swiss chard to pumpkins, using these ingredients to try out new recipes, such as beetroot-top fritters and carrot-top pesto. However, Joy is also a nature lover and compiles a list of birds seen on the allotments.

‘I started keeping an annual list 15 years ago, to monitor the rise or decline of birds on site,’ said Joy. ‘The allotments are surrounded by thick hedgerows, so we have seen the black cap, bullfinch and chiffchaff, as well as birds of prey including the red kite, kestrel, buzzard,

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sparrowhawk and Tawny owl. I also look out for butterflies and we’ve seen the painted lady, red admiral, holly blue, peacock and speckled wood. We’re hopeful of seeing hairstreak varieties return this summer too.

‘Other plot holders have come across slow worms, while I arrived one morning to see a deer in my plot. Foxes are regular visitors, sometimes with kits too. Most of us have protective netting to protect plots from wild foragers, but I think it’s wonderful that we share the site with so much wildlife.’

Further information: Shelley Allotments - Horsham

Photos: Alan Wright Photography Words: Ben Morris

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Station Garage Broadens Horizons as SEAT and CUPRA Authorised Repairer

Station Garage, the well-loved, family-run Škoda dealership in Broadbridge Heath, is proud to announce it has officially become a SEAT and CUPRA Authorised Repairer.

With over 50 years of experience delivering friendly, personal service, this exciting development marks a new chapter for the local business, one that opens the doors to a wider range of customers while staying true to its roots.

Renowned for its approachable team, quality service, and commitment to the community, Station Garage continues to offer new and used Škodas alongside a state-of-the-art on-site workshop. As official Authorised Repairer, the dealership welcomes SEAT and CUPRA owners for servicing, maintenance and repairs—all with the same trusted care and attention existing customers have come to expect.

“This is really exciting news for our team and for our customers,” said James Thorpe, Dealer Principal at Station Garage. “We’re incredibly proud of the trust our Škoda customers have placed in us over the years, and we want to thank them for their continued support.

“Becoming a SEAT and CUPRA Authorised Repairer allows us to grow and serve even more drivers in the local area, possibly becoming the closest service point for many, while staying true to our values of personal, friendly service.”

While the expansion represents growth, Station Garage remains committed to the values that have defined the business for over 50 years. Some customers have stayed with the dealership since its original home in Rudgwick, reflecting the strong relationships and sense of community built over the years. As the business begins this new chapter, it looks forward to welcoming SEAT and CUPRA owners while continuing to support generations of loyal customers across the area.

There is a wide range of new and used Škoda cars at Station Garage’s showroom and spacious forecourt, with its large workshop and MOT testing centre led by a team of experienced technicians. In 2025, Station Garage Horsham were proud to be crowned as one of Skoda’s Top Ten Retailers of the Year, out of 127 dealerships in the UK, with the Aftersales team ranking second in the country.

SPIRIT GUIDES

TREFOIL GUILD: GIRLGUIDING FOR THE GROWN UPS!

Members of a Trefoil Guild in Southwater enjoyed an evening of pottery painting, hosted by Pot Luck Creations, in May. AAH visited Southwater Village Hall to find out more about the organisation and how it supports the Girlguiding movement…

What is the Trefoil Guild?

It’s an organisation where adults can find friendship, enjoy new challenges and stay active in their community. In the 1920s, former members of the Girl Guides started to form unofficial ‘Old Guide’ groups. These groups adopted the name ‘Trefoil Guild’ in 1943 and remain essentially the adult group of the Girlguiding family.

Although uniform isn’t a requirement at regular meetings, members often wear red polo shirts and a “necker’. The group retains close links to Girlguiding, though not all members are former Guides, and men are welcome too.

Nikki Barnes, Co-Chair of the Southwater Trefoil Guild, said: ‘It’s a common misconception that you need to have previously been involved in Guiding or Scouting to join. Growing up, I was a Brownie, Guide and Ranger, but we welcome anyone who supports the aims and principles of the Guiding movement. We’re a friendly group who meet once a month to enjoy activities and like-minded company.’

Is it a big organisation?

There is a network of about 1,100 guilds in the UK, with about 20,000 members in all. In Sussex, Trefoil Guild is split into three sections: East, West and Central. Sussex West has 13 guilds, including Steyning and Storrington. Sussex Central has eight and these include Southwater, where members meet on the first Wednesday of the month, usually at the Village Hall on Church Lane.

Sarah Little, a long-serving Southwater member and Chair of Sussex Central, said: ‘As well as local guilds, we have a group called Sussex Hive Active, where members of guilds from across Central can meet for special events, which can include theatre trips

or short breaks, with a trip to Studley Castle in Warwickshire planned for October. Members of Hive Active Guild can also attend the national AGM, held in Scarborough this year. I always enjoy meeting members of other Guilds from across the country and hearing about what they’ve been doing.’

What do Trefoil Guilds do?

It has four main aims: Give support (support the core principles of the Guide and Scout movement); Get involved (apply Guiding principles in the local community: Give support (assist and advice local units, leaders and the wider Girlguiding organisation); and find friendship (socialising at regular meetings and activities). Although each Guild has its own identity, each maintains the core values of Girlguiding.

‘Trefoil presents an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends.’

Sarah said: ‘We try to maintain close links with local Girlguiding groups and our members have supported Guides in Southwater at fundraising events. Every four years, the South of England Showground in Ardingly hosts the West Sussex International Join camp, a huge event which brings together hundreds of Guides and Scouts. The Trefoil Guild always provides support by assisting with the event’s organisation and various craft activities.

‘Many of our members are former Leaders, who as well as being able to continue their Guiding journey through Trefoil, can also enjoy some of the great activities that Guides experience!’

What kind of activities?

Each Guild produces an annual programme, which can encompass craft activities, talks and days out. At May’s meeting, members welcomed Hollie Cheeseman, owner of Pot Luck Creations in Steyning, and enjoyed painting ceramics. In June, the group travelled to a village pub for a skittles evening. They will be experiencing woodland cooking for their July meeting.

Nikki Barnes produces the Southwater programme with Co-Chair Angela Spiers. Nikki said: ‘We ask members for suggestions

Monza Sport is an approved service dealer for Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Abarth and now Jeep, offering the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

We offer servicing, repairs, warranty work and MOT on Fiat, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Jeep. Also, air-con re-gas, tyres and 4 wheel alignment. We have a waiting area with Wi-Fi and are near the Red Lion pub – alternatively we have modern low mileage courtesy cars available for our customers.

We have a vastly experienced Service Manager in Keith Avey and one of the country’s best technicians and diagnostic experts in Kevin Riddles. On four occasions we’ve topped the JD Power customer satisfaction surveys for Alfa Romeo.

(*No.1 out of 165 Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler Jeep dealers for customer satisfaction in the UK, Jan - Mar 2018)

and try to produce a varied programme. In March, we hosted a talk on cybercrime, with a police officer highlighting the tactics used by fraudsters. We often host craft evenings in the Village Hall, and there are usually some days out too, with visits to Arundel Castle and an animal sanctuary planned later this year. The social benefits are huge, and we even come together for a post-Christmas meal, this year held at The Hornbrook Inn.’

Do members earn badges?

The Trefoil STARS challenge was launched in 2017, to mark Trefoil’s 75th anniversary. STARS is made up of five themes (Skills, Together, Action, Roam and Self) and each theme comes with a list of eight clauses. To gain the badge, you need to have completed three clauses from each theme. For example, the skills theme clauses include ‘Learn a new handicraft skill’, which can include calligraphy or felting. To complete the ‘Teach a skill’ element, members can share a talent with local Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Rangers or Leaders.

Will the next generation need Trefoil?

Sally Carver has been helping at Guiding groups for over 40 years, initially in the Shetland Isles. She has since spent decades as a Leader at Broadbridge Heath Guides and now enjoys some of the same activities as the younger girls as Treasurer of the Trefoil Guild in Southwater.

Sally said: ‘Often, girls go on to become Rangers and Young Leaders (ages 14 –18), but don’t then naturally progress to Trefoil Guild. For a long time, Trefoil has perhaps been perceived as being a group of old ladies. While some of us are, we do still attract younger members too, and it’s important we do so. One problem we face is that many younger women are too busy, often balancing work around family commitments, so going out in the evening – even once a month – doesn’t fit with their lifestyle. But it’s an opportunity to come together with like-minded people, make new friends, and enjoy some of the wonderful activities that we enjoyed when we were young!’

Further information:

For more on the Trefoil Guild, visit: trefoilguild.co.uk/county/sussex-central

For more details about the Southwater group, email sharon.carver@outlook.com

HIGHFLIERS

FLITECREW INFINITY AIM FOR THE EUROPEAN SUMMIT

Flitecrew Infinity Cheerleading has enjoyed incredible growth since its foundation a decade ago. AAH attended a club meeting at The Bridge and met founder Laurel Kennedy, senior coach Jordan Kennedy, cheer coach Isa Mitchell, and nine-year-old Matilda Parr, part of its next generation of young stars…

Laurel: I initially established Flitecrew solely as a trampolining club in 1991. As I flew with British Caledonia and British Airways, the club adopted various aviation themes and an Americanised spelling. My daughters, Jordan and Jessica, both started trampolining at a young age and reached a high standard. They have since played a pivotal role in developing the cheerleading section as senior coaches, proving to be inspirational role models for the children.

Jordan: The trampolining club has always been very popular, but in 2016, we felt the time was right to establish a cheerleading section alongside it. Jess and I were both born in the States, so many of the things we love are influenced by American culture. We started the class with about 20 children and now around 170 attend every week.

Isa: In America, sideline cheer is very popular. Sideline is associated with US sports (especially American football and basketball), where cheerleaders are part of the support and entertainment. We don’t have that culture in the UK, yet other forms of cheer – such as all-star cheer – are popular. All-star includes elements of gymnastics, with tumbling, dance and stunting. We put together choreographed routines that require balance, strength and agility. These can include lifts, holds and even throwing members of the team into the air.

Laurel: Cheerleading is a collaboration of gymnastics, acrobatics and dancing. I think that is one reason why so many girls and boys find it so rewarding. It’s a unique discipline that teaches young people about commitment and teamwork.

One popular routine involves a group of forming a pyramid. This needs four people, with two base stops gripping the flyer’s feet, and a backstop who holds the flyer’s ankles to give extra support. The base positions also support the flyer when they land after a jump. Flying is good fun, but I like the base roles too, as you have to trust everyone to do their part.

Cheerleading is all about teamwork. A competition routine may see four or five individual groups all creating their own pyramid, each with their own leaps and body positions.

Synchronicity is important for the success of the entire routine. So, if one person is unable to attend training, it’s hard to build the

trust required for difficult routines. We emphasise the importance of teamwork, so that one person doesn’t let down their team and coaches by skipping training in favour of a party. That’s not always easy when you’re dealing with teenagers!

Laurel: Our cheer groups meet at The Bridge on Friday evenings. We have a wide range of groups, from Teenies (who start as young as three) to Minis, Youths and Juniors, then Senior teams. There’s a safe transition between Departures and Arrivals (maintaining an aviation theme)

for the girls coming and going. Most children, unless they have prior gymnastics or trampolining experience, begin in our recreational teams. We are an inclusive club, and for some it’s enough to just have fun in these sessions, without the commitment that the competition teams demand.

Matilda (left): I joined when I was four, and started in Teenies. I’ve now progressed to Dynamite, one of the competition teams. Teams like Dynamite and Lightning are for Novice and Prep level. You then progress to the Elite – Altitude, Concorde and Vortex.

Isa: Popular national events such as Future Cheer (FC) Essentials give opportunities for Novice teams to compete. Other events, such as FC Internationals, held at the BIC in Bournemouth, are aimed at Elite teams and give us the chance to compete against the very best in the UK and even overseas. There are several well-established clubs across the country, so although we have enjoyed great success in competitions, our goal is always to beat our own score from previous years. That way, we know we are improving. However, we won a national competition last year, leading to an invitation for our two elite teams to the prestigious European Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, this June. (Vortex finished 6th out of 23 teams in Level 2, with Concorde 8th out of 16 sides in Level 1).

Laurel: The standard of cheer in the UK has improved dramatically over the past decade. When we started out, we were competing against clubs with much more experience. Now, we’ve gone from being the new kids on the block and competing at regional competitions and against the very best at European events. This has been achieved at a time when the standard has risen, mainly thanks to TV shows such as Netflix’s Cheer. At FC Internationals at The BIC on 26-28 June, our final major competition of the year, all three Elite sides excelled, hitting zero (meaning no deductions) as they were placed amongst the best of the best.

‘We have a wonderful team of home-grown coaches, some of whom still perform in the Elite teams.’

Jordan: As well as competitions, we present an annual showcase at The Bridge. This gives a chance for everyone to demonstrate what they have learned, from Teenies to Seniors in both recreational and competition teams. In May, more then 300 spectators enjoyed 26 routines in a range of cheer styles. As well as all-star cheer, we also coach dance style. Although this form has elements of tumbling and lifts, it’s more focused on dance – typically in a jazz or hip-hop style – and often utilises pom-poms.

Laurel: At the end of each season, the competition groups are disbanded and trials are held ahead of a new season in September. This can seem brutal, but it ensures that those in the recreational teams have a chance to break into a competition team if they want to, while others can progress to a more advanced team. It’s a special moment when a child joins a competition team and a big reason for that is the incredible uniform we have...

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We offer a delicious range of hot and cold dishes, from seasonal breakfasts to hearty lunches, all crafted with care. Sweet treats and cakes are baked in-house using fresh, local ingredients, including artisan breads and burgers made with beef from our own herd.

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Take your pick from a wide selection of soft drinks, draught and bottled beers, premium spirits, and wines – all best enjoyed with stunning views over Sumners Lake. Sit back on the upper or lower deck, or get cosy in our safari-style tent, warmed by the glow of a real wood-burning stove.

Leaving so soon?

And if you’re not ready to leave, why not stay the night? With lakeside lodges, glamping, camping and touring pitches, Sumners Ponds is more than just a visit–it’s a place to slow down, connect with nature, and feel at home.

Jordan: I designed our first outfit in 2016. We wear red leotards for trampolining, so I chose blue for cheerleading. After nine years, it was time for a refresh, so the new uniform has more glitz and sparkle. The atmosphere in the room when we revealed it was just incredible! I spent a long time ensuring that every rhinestone and crystal was perfectly placed. However, costumes must also be safe and functional, which is why girls often wear their hair a certain way for routines, for their safety and that of others. Outside of entering various competitions, the uniforms are the biggest expense for parents, but we’ve tried our best to keep it affordable.

Laurel: We are very proud that many of our girls have gone on to become coaches. We have a wonderful team of home-grown coaches, some of whom still perform in the Elite teams. This gives the youngsters huge inspiration and something to aim for. Coaching also helps them attain things such as Duke of Edinburgh Awards or even accredited coaching qualifications to add to their CV.

Isa: I joined Flitecrew Trampolining when I was four and eventually reached a national standard. I also joined the cheer side when it launched and believe I’m the only founder member still competing, as part of Vortex. All of my best friends are at Flitecrew, so it is a huge part of my life. Now, I have made a transition into coaching, although I find that I’m more nervous than ever before a competition, as I know how hard all the children have worked on their routines and I want them to do well!

GUIDE STEAK to

Jordan: Isa has developed from being a great athlete to a great coach. She is a role model to others and a perfect example of our family ideology. She isn’t the only one in the club who started cheer when they were very little and is now coaching one of our teams, which speaks volumes about the club. People stay because they love it, but also because they see their younger self in the girls who are cheering now and want to give them the same wonderful experiences.

Laurel: We now have equally strong cheer and trampolining sections, and it really does feel like a family. I think that is why so many parents get involved in helping with administrative and welfare duties, and we all have a wonderful time when we’re away at competitions, or on our annual trip to Disneyland Paris. It’s incredible how much Flitecrew has grown, although it’s no surprise to me, as cheer offers so much to young people, in terms of their health and fitness, understanding the importance of commitment and teamwork, while creating lasting friendships.

GOLDEN GATE

HORSHAM BUSINESS WINS KING’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE

A family-run business in Horsham has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise. Dog-G8, run by father-andson Peter and Chris Maxted, received an award in the Innovation category for its range of unique retractable gates. AAH visited the company’s Roffey base to find out more…

What inspired you to establish Dog-G8?

Peter: The idea stems from our involvement in other businesses. My wife, Julie, ran Horsham Publications Ltd, producing community magazines such as the Horsham and Holbrook Pages, while I spent 30 years as a firefighter. With three children, we needed additional incomes, so established The Pets, Homes & Gardens Company, which provided pet-sitting services. Most of the dogs we cared for were no problem, but we used to look after two Pomeranians that tried to bolt every time the front door opened! We looked for a product that could attach to the front door to resolve the issue. Although one or two were available, they

didn’t offer what we needed. So, I started to research and develop a new product…

How did you design something unique?

Peter: Many people use a baby or stair gate to contain pets in a particular part of the house. These fit standard size doorways and work fine, but in a house like ours –children coming and going and deliveries arriving regularly – it’s not always possible to keep pets away from the front door. So, our idea was to design a gate that could attach to the front door at one end and be fixed to a wall at the other, expanding as the door opened and retracting as it closed. We couldn’t patent the concertina mechanism, but could patent the modular links that we designed for this purpose.

Did it take time to perfect the product?

Peter: Initially, there were things that didn’t work as we had hoped. One early idea was to use hooks, so that a Dog-G8 could be increased in height or width simply by adding singular modules. However, dogs would eventually learn how to unclip these

hooks, so we developed a more secure alternative. Another early concept was to use aluminium clips to connect each panel, but these didn’t give the gate a free-flowing concertina movement and were not strong enough to withstand the force of a larger dog. So, we made rigid steel fixings, concealed behind clips manufactured by Pentagon Plastics in Horsham. These are not only robust, but allow for a smoother action. There has been a lot of trial and error!

When did you launch your product?

Chris: We exhibited a Dog-G8 for the front door at the 2019 National Pet Show at the NEC. One pet-owner said she liked the idea, but wondered if it would fit her caravan. We

‘We were the first company to bring a floor-to-ceiling retractable gate for cats to the market.’

realised that many people travel with their pets and there were other markets to explore. Today, about 30% of our sales come from motorhome and caravan Dog-G8s. We’ve also developed a Dog-G8 for doorways and stairs, and an extra wide Dog-G8 for patio doors, although the front door Dog-G8 remains our best seller.

Readers may remember your appearance on Dragon’s Den…

Chris: We shot some videos for social media, which were seen by a producer of the show, who invited us to apply. We finally filmed the programme in May 2022. We were grilled for over two hours, during which time the Dragon’s asked us how we were surviving financially. At the time, I was drawing a small salary while dad wasn’t taking anything from the business. The moment dad told them about his 30 years’ experience as a firefighter, the atmosphere changed, as they realised we were not chancers out to make a quick buck. We received two offers and accepted Deborah Meaden’s. However, four months later, we were informed that she wouldn’t

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be proceeding with the deal. We had inadvertently given figures based on the product margin, rather than the sales margin, and the differential proved enough for a change of heart.

How do you reflect on the experience?

Peter: At the time, we were gutted. However, giving up 20% of the business would have meant that any Dragon had a say in major decisions, and that could have impacted our desire to introduce new products and expand into new markets, particularly America, where we have seen promising growth. In some respects, Silvio Perna, Managing Director of Automated Wire Bending Ltd in Peterborough, has been our “Dragon”. His company has invested in robotics and played a pivotal role in helping us reduce costs, develop materials, and increase production.

You have now launched a new product…

Chris: We launched Cat-G8 last year, and that has gone phenomenally well, matching sales of Dog-G8. It uses a similar modular design and concertina movement and – as well as the front door Cat-G8 – we were the first company to bring a floor-to-ceiling retractable gate to market. We are adapting the design to make it narrower, as the modules are wide enough for kittens to squeeze through. My partner Harriet and I owned a pet chinchilla that could slip through the gaps, so we knew this was a potential problem! There are 11 million cats in the UK and we can’t accommodate them all, but we can certainly help most cat owners.

Why are your products not available in major stores?

Chris: Some have made enquiries, but we feel our products don’t suit larger retailers. It takes time to educate people about our products and if they just saw retractable gates in a camping chair-style bag on a shelf, they wouldn’t understand what it was. So, we sell directly to consumers online, in partnership with Shopify. Sales are driven through excellent reviews, a

Giltinan and Kennedy LLP

6a Lyons Farm Estate Horsham, RH13 0QP (01403) 337490

info@giltinan-kennedy.co.uk

Inheritance Tax Changes: What Do You Need to Know?

Inheritance Tax (IHT) can be a sensitive subject, which is often why people put off thinking about it. However, recent government announcements mean it may be worth reviewing your plans sooner rather than later.

How does Inheritance Tax work?

Inheritance Tax is usually charged at 40% on the value of an estate above the available thresholds and allowances. While only a minority of estates currently pay Inheritance Tax, rising asset values and frozen thresholds mean more families could be affected in time.

What changes have been announced?

The government has confirmed that the existing Inheritance Tax nil-rate band of £325,000 and the residence nil-rate band of £175,000 will remain frozen until April 2030. In addition, changes have been announced to certain reliefs that have traditionally reduced Inheritance Tax liabilities for some families and business owners.

Reforms to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief are due to take effect in April 2026. The government has also announced that, from April 2027, most unused pension funds and death benefits will be brought within the scope of Inheritance Tax.

Who could be affected?

These changes may have implications for business owners, farming families and individuals who have planned to pass on

unused pension savings as part of their estate. Even if you do not expect your estate to be affected today, changes to asset values and future tax rules could alter your position.

What should you do now?

The most important step is not to wait until it is too late. Reviewing your estate plans, updating your will and understanding the potential impact of the changes can help ensure your wishes are carried out and your family is prepared.

Need advice?

Inheritance Tax planning is complex and the right approach will depend on your personal circumstances.

To discuss how the upcoming changes could affect you or your family, contact Giltinan & Kennedy LLP on 01403 337490 or email info@giltinan-kennedy.co.uk. We also have useful resources and online calculators on our website, please head to www.giltnan-kennedy.co.uk to find out more.

presence at trade shows and events such as Crufts, and innovative social media marketing, led by Harriet. On our website, customers can choose the height and width of their Dog-G8 or Cat-G8, and select from white, black and chrome materials, while we can respond very quickly to any queries. Also, we like the quality that British manufacturing provides and partnering with major retailers could create pressure to find cheaper alternatives. There is a market for cheaper products, but there are also those who love their pets and are willing to spend £100, £200 or more in some cases for a UK-manufactured product that will last for years.

And finally, to the King’s Award for Enterprise…

Peter: I tend to avoid awards, but I met another local businessman who had received the King’s Award for Enterprise in Overseas Trade. He had a photo taken with the King and I was really impressed. To apply, you need to have been trading for five years and to have demonstrated excellence in a particular field, in our case innovation. We also fulfilled a requirement to demonstrate a strong corporate social responsibility, by partnering with organisations such as the Merseyside Dog Safety Partnership, who help to address the problem of dog bites. We are all chuffed to have received the award, as it feels like a Royal stamp of approval. I’m now very excited

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about attending the Royal reception at St James’s Palace on 8 July. I also believe we’re the smallest company to win the award this year, although that will shortly change. We’ve grown from three members of staff to six in a matter of months and are now expanding into an adjacent unit too. So, it has been a long journey, but we are heading in the right direction, as pet owners all over the world discover our unique products.

Further information: Visit the websites at www.dog-g8.com or www.cat-g8.com

When the body begins to change

Part 5: The Cost of Putting Up With It

Last month we explored how confidence in movement can return when the right support is in place. Many people rediscover that their bodies are capable of far more than they first believed.

But for many people, particularly during midlife, something else is also happening quietly in the background. The body itself is beginning to change. Not suddenly, and often not dramatically. Instead, the changes tend to arrive gradually. Recovery after activity may take a little longer. Joints may feel slightly stiffer in the morning. Small injuries that once settled quickly may linger. Movements that used to feel automatic begin to require a little more thought.

Because these changes appear slowly, they are easy to dismiss. People often describe themselves as “just slowing down,” or assume that discomfort is simply something they now need to tolerate quietly as part of getting older. And because life is usually busy during these years, many people continue adapting without paying much attention to what those adaptations are gradually costing them.

“Bodies rarely change overnight, they evolve gradually through life’s transitions.”

In reality, many of these shifts reflect natural biological changes that occur as the body moves through different stages of life. Muscles recover differently. Tendons and joints may become less tolerant of repetitive strain. Balance, stability and strength can all begin to change subtly over time. Hormonal changes can also influence how the body responds to activity, recovery, and stress.

None of this means the body is failing. But it does mean the body may need a different kind of support.

‘Often, understanding what is happening allows people to move with greater confidence again.’

Listening to the signals

Our bodies are good at communicating when something needs attention. Often, the signals are subtle at first. A longer walk leaves stiffness that lasts into the following day. Standing for long periods becomes more tiring. Recovery after exercise becomes less predictable. Sometimes the body begins negotiating in quieter ways.

We change pace without thinking about it. We sit down sooner.

We choose routes with easier parking. We quietly stop doing certain things as often as we once did.

At first, these adjustments usually feel sensible. In many ways, they are. People are remarkably good at adapting. The difficulty is that adaptation can sometimes disguise what the body is trying to tell us.

When coping becomes the new normal

One of the most common things people say in clinic is:“I thought it was just something I had to put up with.”

Often, they have been managing discomfort successfully for a long time before seeking advice. They are still working. Still walking. Still functioning. Still doing most of the things that matter to them. But over time, the effort involved in managing around discomfort increases.

Adapting without giving up

Midlife does not mean giving up movement. In many ways, it simply means approaching movement differently. Some changes are practical: improving footwear, strengthening muscles that support balance, improving confidence on uneven ground, or a clearer understanding of movement patterns.

Many people assume that discomfort automatically means damage, or that reduced confidence in movement means the body is becoming unreliable. But often, understanding what is happening allows people to move with greater confidence again rather than greater hesitation. And when movement begins to feel steadier and more supported, something important often shifts psychologically too. Movement begins to feel possible again. Not necessarily in the same way it did 20 years earlier, but in a way that still allows life to remain open, active and connected. Because the goal is rarely perfection. It’s preserving confidence, participation, independence and the ability to keep doing what you love.

Natalie Kitchener Podiatrist & Clinic Director

Feet and Motion, Horsham

HCPC Registered Podiatrist Member of Royal College of Podiatry

Unit 2, 55a Park Terrace East, Horsham, RH13 5DJ (01403) 249083

horsham@feetandmotion.co.uk

www.feetandmotion.co.uk

MAGIC MOMENTS

DAME VERA LYNN

CHILDREN’S CHARITY CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

Ed: 07812995475 |Carl: 07754337926

Email: thetreemensusse x@gmail com

Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The charity provides support to babies and young children living with cerebral palsy and other motor learning impairments. AAH visited the charity in North Chailey to find out more…

When it comes to telling the story of this remarkable charity, it seems natural to start by asking what compelled Vera Lynn – the entertainer who perhaps defines the term “Forces’ Sweetheart” more than anyone else – to establish a special school in the Sussex countryside.

She even helped establish another charity, S.O.S, and was later a long-serving supporter of Scope.

‘When Scope stopped funding its early intervention service for young children, Dame Vera called on the support of influential friends and colleagues to launch the Dame Vera Lynn Trust (later re-named Children’s Charity) in 2001. She was 86, yet still committed to establishing the charity, which speaks volumes about her. She felt a synergy between her previous support for British troops – her boys, as she called them – and the services she provided for children and their families.’

DVLCC established a School for Parents, supporting families with babies and children under five with cerebral palsy, chromosome abnormalities, or rare genetic disorders that affect physical development. This school was initially based in the grounds of Ingfield All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & garden maintenance covered. Call for your FREE quotation

‘It’s the question everyone asks,’ smiles Glenys Creese, who has served as CEO for six years. ‘After all, as far as we know, she didn’t have any family or friends with cerebral palsy or similar impairments. I spoke to Dame Vera over tea and cake when we celebrated her 100th birthday, and she explained that her interest in children with cerebral palsy dated back to the 1950s.

GOLD DUST

Dame Vera Lynn’s original vision into a vital regional service. We attract families from across Mid Sussex, Horsham and Crawley, as well as Hampshire, Kent and even London. Families are willing to travel as they cannot find all of the specialist therapy services we provide under one roof anywhere else. As well as physiotherapy, music, and speech and language therapy, we provide home play sessions through our Outreach team. We also offer hydrotherapy in Horsham, rebound therapy, and baby massage for new parents.

‘We’ve also introduced a parental support service, so there’s always a counsellor families can talk to. The parents often become close friends too, and I’m reminded of a group of boys who used to attend our Wednesday morning sessions. They are all nine-or-ten now, but their parents continue to meet socially and even organise weekends away together. It’s

important to have that support network, so we ensure this is a space where they can talk openly, which is good for their wellbeing.

‘We see about 100 children a week, and even after 25 years, occasionally come across a child with a diagnosis which is new to us. However, our therapists are very experienced when it comes to providing the right support. The work can be emotional, and we need to support one another, especially when a child passes away – something you never get used to. But on a more positive note, we get to see a child walking when their parents have been told that could never happen, or see them communicate for the first time. These moments are like gold dust.’

Glenys Creese, CEO

MOMENTS

Manor School at Five Oaks, nr Billingshurst, which at the time was run by the disability charity, Scope. The partnership lasted 15 years, with some children at the School for Parents then continuing to receive support at Ingfield Manor through primary, secondary and sixth form years.

However, fundraising was becoming more challenging. Significant grant contributors, such as Children in Need, were already supporting Scope, so were reluctant to fund the DVLCC too, as some of its money would also be used to pay Scope for its services. Faced with the option of closing or becoming independent, the charity’s trustees chose the latter. The DVLCC left Five Oaks in 2016 and moved to a new venue in Cuckfield. Since then, it has employed its own staff, including paediatric physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, and outreach workers.

In 2024, after eight years in Cuckfield, the charity moved to its current location within the grounds of the Chailey Heritage Foundation. It continues to provide free sessions through to a child’s 6th birthday. Glenys said: ‘The charity has grown from

book a totally free, non-committal care assessment. Our friendly team will talk through your needs and answer any questions — with no pressure and no obligation.

You Can Trust

PRECIOUS TIME

For parents like Anna Lee from Warnham, the service the charity provides is worth its weight in gold. Anna’s son Freddie, who turned three in March, has Galloway-Mowat syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterised by early-onset progressive kidney disease and severe neurological abnormalities.

As a midwife at East Surrey Hospital, Anna was surrounded by colleagues when she gave birth to Freddie at home. There were no complications, but after six months, Anna and her partner were concerned that Freddie wasn’t meeting his physical and communicative milestones.

Anna recalled: ‘Freddie wasn’t sitting up or rolling as you’d expect, and there were signs of visual problems too. Normally, a baby would engage with you at close quarters, but Freddie wasn’t. We took him to a ophthalmologist, who discovered that he had optic nerve atrophy. Freddie was immediately transferred to hospital and what began as concerns for his vision snowballed into something that would change our lives completely.

‘Unbeknown to us, my partner and I have a faulty gene which caused a rare genetic condition, which has only been diagnosed in about 300

patients in the world. Every case is different, so it’s impossible to predict the future. Some children don’t even make it to Freddie’s current age, while some live into their 20s and have learned to walk in their teenage years. There’s no treatment, meaning Freddie has a shortened life expectancy and my experiences as a first-time mother are very different to what I ever expected them to be.’

Anna relies on the support of Freddie’s grandparents, as she works two days a week. The rest of her time is devoted to his care, and she has come to depend on the DVLCC. Freddie visits for speech and physiotherapy, and also benefits from play therapy sessions with his outreach worker, Carol Meadows. On Tuesdays, he enjoys hydrotherapy at Horsham Swim School too, while he attends music therapy on Thursdays.

Anna said: ‘He would have been at a nursery school aged three, so this is Freddie’s opportunity to learn and to shine. Communication is challenging, as Freddie is severely sight impaired and cannot co-ordinate movements. It will take time to develop alternative neural pathways. However, through consistent therapy, we are seeing improvements in his hand/eye coordination, even if these are only small.

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‘Freddie can now sit in his chair independently, and he loves the Galileo body vibrating machine, which improves his strength and balance. The physiotherapists are excellent, as they allow Freddie to play for about 80% of his sessions, but the rest is hard work!

‘I like visiting too, as it’s a safe place where you don’t need to explain anything. Everyone here – whether they’re a parent, grandparent or carer – understands what you’re going through. The other benefit is that I can be here with Freddie, which I couldn’t do if he was at nursery. Time is precious and we want to enjoy every minute we have with our beautiful boy.’

HAPPY SIGNS

Malcolm and Veronica Peppiatt of Horsham, both former teachers, have come to rely on the charity to help care for their five-year-old grandson, Max.

Max has Bainbridge Ropers syndrome, another rare genetic condition caused by mutations in the ASXL3 gene, with only around 200 cases identified globally. Max is non-verbal and may never be able to speak properly, while low muscle tone (hypotonia) impairs him physically.

Veronica, a governor at St John’s Catholic Primary School, Horsham, heard about the DVLCC through a parent governor, who happened to also be a speech and language therapist. Max has since attended physiotherapy sessions for two years. Now of school age, he also attends Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee School in Horsham, while continuing to visit the DVLCC once a week, where he has shown signs of improvement.

Veronica said: ‘Both of Max’s parents work full time, so we rotate with his paternal grandparents to look after him after school, and take him to the DVLCC every Monday after lunch. We were concerned about how Max would fare at school, but QEII is wonderful and he enjoys it. He always starts moving his limbs when the Minibus picks him up – a sign he’s happy – and does the same thing when we arrive at the DVLCC.

‘Although communication is very difficult, we can gauge his mood by his body language and sounds, whether that’s groaning or laughing. If you change the TV channel – put Moana on instead of Encanto – he will let you know if he’s unhappy! However, one of the challenges we face is developing clear forms of communication, as he’s reaching an age when he’s starting to

Second Guessing Future Market is Risky Business

If you’re coming to the end of a fixed rate deal – or you’re buying a home and trying to decide when to act – you’re probably asking the same question as thousands of other borrowers right now: is now the right time to fix, or could better deals still be on the way?

There isn’t a single right answer. The Bank of England base rate currently sits at 3.75%, and fixed mortgage pricing has gradually eased during the first half of the year. Many mainstream fixed rates are now available in the mid-4% range, though pricing continues to vary between lenders. Rates are still moving regularly and not always in the direction borrowers expect.

5 September 10:30am

Knowing exactly what your monthly payments will be over the next two or five years makes budgeting far easier. Fixing now may also help you:

l Secure a deal before lenders reprice upwards

l Protect against unexpected changes in inflation

l Progress a purchase or remortgage without delay

l Avoid the uncertainty of a volatile market

At the same time, many borrowers believe rates could improve later this year if inflation continues to ease and the Bank of England cuts rates. This has increased interest in shorter-term fixed rates, tracker mortgages, and more flexible products. For some borrowers, waiting may deliver lower monthly payments later in 2026. However, delaying carries its own risks. Rates can rise unexpectedly, property competition may increase, and existing deals can expire before you’ve secured a new one. The market is improving — but it isn’t predictable. Lenders continue to assess every application in detail, looking at your income, credit history, existing financial commitments and household spending. They also apply stress testing, to check you could afford repayments if rates were to rise. This means the lowest available rate isn’t always the most suitable or accessible option.

The mortgage market is in a much better position than it was during the volatility of recent times – but uncertainty hasn’t disappeared entirely.

The best approach for most borrowers is to understand what’s available now, get a clear picture of what you can borrow, and keep your options open rather than trying to second-guess the market.

become frustrated in certain situations. He has a computer tablet and although he cannot use screens independently, knows what he wants to select. So, we hope that could be a way to make further progress in future.

‘The main focus of his visits to the DVLCC is physiotherapy. Max follows the same routine each week, so the therapists can see if his core is strengthening. Physiotherapist Istvan Agoston always goes through the same things with him: they find the fish with Max’s name on, then read some books together. Max always wants to do this quickly, so that he can do the things he most enjoys – playing games, listening to sounds and watching the bubbles in the sensory room! Istvan is wonderful, pushing Max ever so slightly beyond his comfort zone each week. Even if Max complains, Istvan calmly says, “I know Max, you’re doing great!” and this has helped him make progress with his mobility.’

With Max’s family offered only 40 minutes of physiotherapy on the NHS a month, the free one-hour weekly session provided by the charity makes a difference.

Malcolm said: ‘Max used to attend Little Barn Owls nursery, which he really enjoyed. One of the nursery rhymes that he used to sing was Wind the Bobbin Up. We noticed that Max tried to mimic the circular arm movements of the other children. It was a big step – perhaps his first clear voluntary movement. Now, we think he uses that same motion when he wants to listen to music. Max has also made significant progress with his feeding. He is fed through a tube four times a day and has

always been oral averse, which we attribute partly to the traumatic ordeal of being fed through a nasogastric tube. Recently, his other grandparents successfully fed him Melty Puffs, which he can swallow once they’ve dissolved in his mouth. This feels like an important step.’

Max’s family have helped raise funds for the charity, with mum Holly raising £7,500 by running the London Marathon. To celebrate is 25th year, the charity hopes to provide support for an additional 25 children. To raise funds, the DVLCC holds an anniversary celebration at Sedgwick Park House, hosted

PARENT & CHILD PARENT & TODDLER

by Clare Davison, and a Walk Together event in Haywards Heath (see advert, p61). The Ryan Canter Club will also be sponsoring a Picnic on the Square, featuring the Fred Woods Big Band, in Horsham (see p10) on 23 August.

Further information:

For details about the DVLCC’s services, and upcoming fundraising events, please visit: www.dvlcc.org.uk

Photos: Alan Wright Photography Words: Ben Morris

POOLS

An Exciting Development at Broadbridge Park Care Home

Broadbridge Park is a purpose-built luxury care home in the desirable location of Broadbridge Heath in Horsham, offering high quality nursing, residential and dementia care.

Life at Broadbridge Park is centred around our residents, their needs and wishes, and we’re delighted to announce the addition of nine new ensuite bedrooms to the home, meaning we can offer care to more people in the local community when they need us.

These state-of-the-art rooms are part of a unique space on the top floor which will also boast bright and welcoming communal areas and beautiful views of the gardens and surrounding area.

We pride ourselves on a |home filled with comfort and a touch of luxury, with care that comes from a genuine interest in people. All our bedrooms are en suite and facilities throughout the home include stunning wheelchair accessible landscaped gardens, a cinema, hair salon, and large bistro café that's perfect for taking part in one of our many activities.

Whether you enjoy afternoon tea with family, getting creative with arts and crafts, or relaxing with a book, there’s something for everyone at Broadbridge Park Care Home and always lots going on, so why not join us at one of our events!

Open Weekend

Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August, 10.00am – 4.00pm

Be one of the first to see our amazing new penthouse rooms and facilities on our newly launched top floor.

To celebrate the completion of our new development of nine stunning top floor rooms with views over Broadbridge Heath, we're inviting friends, neighbours and the wider community to drop in during our open weekend. Tour our new top floor, meet our friendly team, and enjoy complimentary sweet treats and a glass of bubbly.

For more information about life at Broadbridge Park, to join us for our Open Weekend, or to RSVP for one of our upcoming events, please get in touch. BOOK

Hear Better, Feel Better

The Horsham Hearing Centre is the longest established dedicated Hearing Centre in Horsham. Opened in 1995 by husband and wife team of Audiologists, Julie and Jonathan Ormerod, the couple still run the centre today and offer their clients unrivalled expertise and experience in dealing with hearing problems. Unique in their profession, they offer customers a “Better Hearing Guarantee”. The chance to try the latest technology hearing aids at home in your own environment to help you decide if hearing aids are for you.

Situated in a 500-year-old building opposite the Horsham Library, The Horsham Hearing Centre offers a complete Hearing Care service. Call us or call in today to book a priority appointment.

Latest Hearing Instruments

Hear in Noise with AI

There are many different hearing aids available with different styles, features and cosmetic solutions that can enhance your daily life. Modern hearing instruments are designed to provide clear, crisp sound enhancement so that you can hear and understand better. We offer both ‘in-the-ear’ aids, custom-made to fit perfectly, and ‘behind-the-ear’ hearing aids, including the most popular style, the Receiver-In-Canal (RIC).

30 Great Years in Horsham

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of our business in Horsham, we are offering readers of AAH a very special offer.

Simply quote the code “AAH” when you book an initial consultation and you will receive a technology upgrade if you go on to purchase hearing aids. This could be worth up to £800.

We fit only the latest and best technology from the world’s leading hearing aid manufacturers. One of the latest products we have is the Audibel Vitality AI instrument. It incorporates secondgeneration Artificial Intelligence (AI) processing to give you the best hearing in challenging listening situations. If you haven’t tried hearing aids for several years, come and experience Vitality. It could change your life!

We offer you the chance to try the latest hearing aids completely free of charge or obligation. Take them away and try them in your own environment and hear for yourself how different life can be. At the Horsham Hearing Centre, we offer a professional service in a comfortable environment. If you struggle to hear, why not book a priority appointment with our Audiologists and try the latest hearing aids?

The Horsham Hearing Centre, 22 Worthing Road (opposite the library), Horsham, RH12

www.horshamhearingcentre.co.uk | horsham@hearcentres.com

EDITOR’SNOTES

LIFE IS A ROLLERCOASTER, YOU’VE JUST GOT TO RIDE IT!

©iStock/Chris Mueller

It’s the morning of Wednesday 24 June and I’m in a lousy mood. The heatwave meant I didn’t sleep well, but the primary reason for my malaise is football. Last night, I sat through England’s frustrating goalless draw with Ghana and now I’m left wondering what it is exactly that I’ve seen during my 47 years on the planet that continues to trigger such wild optimism at the start of a World Cup.

I’m also in the midst of one of those hectic periods all families experience, where lots of big things happen at once. My eldest son Max is home from university to celebrate his 21st birthday. But no sooner has he blown out the candles on the cake than he’s flying off on holiday with his girlfriend. Still, he’s kindly left his car and asked me to get a tyre changed while he’s away, having driven around with the smaller spare for weeks. He’s forgotten to mention – and probably doesn’t know – that the MOT runs out while he’s away too.

My youngest, Nick, is heading off to a theme park with four of his cousins. One of them is celebrating his 18th, while Nick himself has just sat the last of his A’ Levels. He’s driving to the theme park and is nervous as – despite passing his test over a year ago – he’s never driven on a motorway before.

The night before, we charged up the Sat-Nav and had a long and accusatory hunt for the suction cup mount. Having insisted I hadn’t seen it, we found it 20 minutes later in my van’s glove compartment. Rather than helping with the search, Max helpfully grumbled that we were “literally the only people in the world” who still use a Sat-Nav and that Nick should “use his phone like everyone else!”

Nick wants to get there for opening time, to ride the rollercoasters before long queues form. So, I told him to get up early. In the meantime, I fed our pet spaniel and took him out for a walk, before it gets too hot. Otis is 14 now – he’d be getting excited about golden gavels if he was human – and the poor old boy is starting to struggle with his vision and hearing now.

He used to pull on the lead all the way to the field, then chase a ball with boundless energy. Now, the short walk takes a cosmic eon as he sniffs every lamppost, every tree stump and every blade of grass, before struggling with his post-breakfast poo. It’s usually delivered in several small parcels and I have to stand around waiting to seal the nappy bag. I frustratingly ask him if he’s done. Otis gives me a look that’s partly embarrassed, partly apologetic, and partly “this will be you soon enough, buddy!”

I get back home and find my youngest is up and about, but wearing trousers.

“For crying out loud, it’s hotter than the sun! Put some shorts on!”

A few minutes later, he insists he doesn’t need sun-cream either…

“Son, come on! What are our rules for life?

One – never get in a helicopter. Two – never leave for West Wittering after 9 o’ clock; Three – don’t be a Scouser in Spain. Use sunscreen, stay hydrated!”

While he applies Factor 50, I set-up his Sat-Nav. Naturally, his cousin is running late and they’ll now need to leave straight away to get there on time. This gives me time to check the oil in both my son’s cars. Max insisted he’d

been topping his up regularly, but the 5W-30 I gave him months ago is un-opened in the boot. The dipstick is dry – what a surprise!

After Nick finally sets off with his cousin, I drive Max’s car to Billingshurst Tyre Company, to replace the punctured tyre and get the spare off. But there’s a problem - it’s not just a puncture. He’s whacked a kerb or thumped a pothole, as the wheel itself is bent! So, as the temperature soars past 30 degrees, I’m having to drive all the way to Wheel Works in Manor Royal to get that fixed first.

I try to quell my frustration by thinking about work – even what I could write for this column. Maybe something about Friday Lates? Like how it was better before everyone knew about it! But then I think, “Tony Parsehole”, which is a character in the satirical comic Viz, based on the journalist Tony Parsons. I often think of Tony Parsehole when I start spouting sentimental or nostalgic nonsense.

As I head home, my wife calls me. The school where she teaches is closing early, providing me with a sounding board for my moaning.

“Three days until deadline day and here I am running around sorting out the boys! Good job I don’t have anything better to do, eh? Honestly, they better appreciate everything we do for them! And did Max say anything to you about his MOT? Oh, hold on, Nick’s calling. He should be there by now. Best see what he wants...”

“Nick, what’s up?”

“Dad, you set the Sat-Nav for Chessington?” “Yeah? So?”

“We’re going to Thorpe Park.”

We have launched a new website, where you can read Classic Features as well as our latest editions. www.aahorsham.co.uk

FINALWORD

HORSHAM NURSE EMBARKS ON 100KM MONTENEGRO TREK

Emma Masters

Emma, from Horsham, is a Lead Nurse at the Royal Surrey Cancer Support Centre. This month, she is undertaking a charity trek in Montenegro for CoppaFeel, a breast cancer charity aimed at young people...

This July, I am embarking on my third trek for CoppaFeel! As I head to the mountains of Montenegro for a 100km hike, you may ask why I’m doing this...

I have been an oncology nurse for 27 years and have seen the impact a cancer diagnosis has on people – young and old. Whilst there are new and exciting treatments coming out all the time, catching cancer early gives people a significantly better chance.

NHS screening programmes have demonstrated the benefit of early detection in many cancers, from mobile lung screening, national bowel screening and even the “Man van” used for prostate screening. These are some examples of the many screening programmes available.

CoppaFeel! is a London-based charity that focuses on the education of young people specifically, encouraging early, proactive checking of our breasts. Education focuses on getting to know your body and understanding what’s normal and what isn’t, so that young people can be empowered to act when they notice something that is not normal.

My whole nursing career has been in oncology. I currently work as Lead Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) nurse at Royal Surrey Cancer Centre in Guildford, which covers many types of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Prior to this, I worked at The Royal Marsden Hospital in the Teenage and Young Cancer unit, so I was

able to see first-hand the impact a cancer diagnosis has on young people – at what is such a pivotal time in their development – in all aspects of their lives.

‘Education focuses on getting to know your body, so that young people can be empowered to act when they notice something not right.’

I was involved in the development and launch of the mobile treatment unit, which is based in the car park near Tesco and Horsham Indoor Bowls Club at Broadbridge Heath. This unit delivers chemotherapy and immunotherapy to Royal Surrey patients each week, preventing them from having to drive to Guildford for their treatment.

I feel very invested in the experience that cancer patients face, particularly when undertaking systemic treatment, and am keen to support them as best I can through this time.

And so, to the trek...

The Montenegro Trek is a gruelling 100km hiking challenge through the country’s rugged mountain ranges, with five days of intense trekking. The event is led by celebrity ambassador Giovanna Fletcher.

As I tie up my boots and continue my training, I reflect on why I’m doing another trek, having already completed two for the same charity. I feel it’s really important that we all challenge ourselves. I turned 51 this year and remain ever grateful for another year – an age denied to many people and as such, a privilege to reach. But I recognise the importance of looking after my body, to keep it moving and to take strides when so many people can no longer do so.

So, I do it for those that cancer has taken before their time; those still going through their own cancer challenge; and those that would love to be able to trek, but are no longer able.

With my slightly achy knees, I am looking to increase my sponsorship to help this amazing charity in anyway I can. Your support would be hugely appreciated.

If you would like to sponsor Emma’s Montenegro Trek, visit her fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/emma-masters-5