Hamsey NEWS Winter 2016/17 Edition

Atmospheric Hamsey. Picture by Kate Yarrow

The Newsletter for Cooksbridge, Offham, Hamsey and Bevernbridge www.hamsey.net 2 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 3 Hamsey NEWS CONTENTS Parish News��4 Happy New Year to all in The recurring theme of dog mess Hamsey Parish, wishing you continues, please read Tamsyn’s piece, Housing Survey ��5 it seems like we may have ways to deal all the very best for 2017! with this more formally in future. In Station News��6 As usual life has been busy in Hamsey any event if you see someone leaving Litter,waste,recycling ��8 with many events taking place in the dog mess please either have a word run up to the festive period. with them, if appropriate, or let one of Beechwood Hall and park ��10 The consultation for extended rail the parish councillors know. News from your parish church ��12 services has closed and we hope The Church has been as busy as usual that the efforts put in by the Station and you can read all about that in Police news ��14 Partnership and local residents will make a their section. Two events stood out for me, the difference and see us with more trains in 2018 first being the Remembrance service, the Church Useful contact numbers ��21 (strikes permitting!). Talking of the strikes, looked stunning with beautiful poppy displays thanks go to those who have been offering lifts and I was honoured and moved to lay the wreath What’s on ��22/23 to others affected by the rail strikes and making on behalf of the Parish Council. The candlelit those days a little easier. We can only hope that carol service was the most stunning I’ve been to, a resolution comes soon and things settle back the sun shone and the Hamsey harmonies choir to normality and people can get back to a less put on a stunning performance. When we left the stressful commute and more time for family and church to their singing in the lane it felt like we PLEASE personal life. were in a scene from Love Actually! Well done We would like to thank Kevin Froude for his Julie and all the members of the choir, we look long service to Hamsey News as distributor in forward to more. SUPPORT the Offham area, Kevin is shortly to move out of We have guest pieces from Wendy Darby, the parish and his mantle will be taken over by teaching us how to make the most of LOCAL Rupert Radford Hardy. Many thanks Rupert for gooseberries and from Alison Scutt of Home keeping the distribution going! We wish Kevin Instead who explains about volunteering for the BUSINESSES and his wife Mary all the best of luck in their elderly at Christmas. new home. I hope you enjoy this issue and as always if you A big thank you goes out have any suggestions please do send them to to all the local businesses me at [email protected]. Warmest wishes that have advertised and Ailsa supported Hamsey News Please support local businesses and mention Hamsey News when responding to advertisers

To advertise in Hamsey News please call 01843 269513 Outside Hamsey Church 4 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 5

ALL PEST CONTROL PROBLEMS DEALT WITH Parish News Proud members of Hamsey Parish Where reputation matters Local MP Maria Caulfield takes a strong interest VANDALISM in the issues affecting her constituents and she PEST CONTROLLERS There have been a few more incidents of Housing Survey has been speaking to phone provider EE about Contact Nigel IN SUSSEX vandalism in the parish, notably in the In February/March 2017 Lewes mobile coverage in our parish. 07758 558271 ESCC Trading Cooksbridge area. District Council are undertaking 01273 609429 On their coverage checker for Hamsey parish, it DISCOUNT Standards approved The parish council have been in touch with Sussex 01323 482311 FOR indicates good 4G coverage, although with slightly a postal housing survey across police to request a stronger police presence in the 01903 751048 OAPs [email protected] weaker signal north of Cooksbridge station. They the parish of Hamsey, which area and received the following reply: would be keen to have details of specific areas, includes Offham, Cooksbridge, www.pestcontrollersinsussex.co.uk road names etc where the coverage concerns are We are keen to be contacted with local issues and Hamsey and Bevernbridge. concerns and even though there is no named and their nature (voice, data, reliability). The purpose of this study is to gain PCSO for Cooksbridge we can still be contacted The parish council has already had reports that a better understanding of the by the District email address District.lewes@ coverage north of the station can be very poor housing issues affecting the sussex.pnn.police.uk which is monitored daily. Building Contractors, Bespoke Kitchens & Joinery and would like information from any residents in community of Hamsey and to Although we do proactively monitor incident any of the areas of the parish, who have problems. work strategically towards Station House Showroom reports ourselves it is far better to receive Please let the council know by email: clerk@ improving housing provision. information in a timely fashion. PCSO provision Cooksbridge Station hamsey.net. The more data we have the easier it in Sussex Police may look different now but we All residents are asked to complete Cooksbridge may be to get some solutions. still aim to be responsive to our communities and the survey which you will receive East Sussex, BN8 4SW We have heard that the nearby mast (to the north, be there when people need us the most. as this will help to ensure future Tel 01273 401648 alongside the A275) is in line to be upgraded to planning for housing provision is The police do need residents to report ALL [email protected] deliver 4G services this year which will improve based on accurate information. award winner incidents so they have an up to date log and can www.hqwshowroom.co.uk 2013 & 2015 coverage further. act accordingly. Your responses will be confidential THE MALTHOUSE PLAYPARK and protected under the COMMUNITY WEBSITE Data Protection Act 1998. The parish council asked contractors to reduce Parish councillors Tamsyn D’Arienzo and Ailsa CAlling All businesses the height of the beech hedge which screens Suttie are working on an updated version of the this little park from the road. Over the years community website which they hope will be up First Aid is for everyone, the hedge had grown so tall that it made the and running this spring. In the meantime, if you young and old small park area rather gloomy. A further cut, have suggestions about what you might want to Contact us for details of all courses available to reduce the width of the hedge will be carried see on the new site, do contact the parish council out in the summer. If you have any suggestions with your suggestions. for improvements to the park please contact the parish clerk – [email protected] www.thefirstaidco.com

: First Aid at Work :

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TRAIN SERVICE If a passenger needs assistance getting on a train at Many thanks to all those who responded to Cooksbridge, the Southern Control Room should the consultation about the 2018 timetable. The be contacted using the Help Point at the station. consultation period is now closed and the next If a passenger needs assistance alighting at official step is to receive detailed timetables for Cooksbridge this should be discussed with staff review in late spring/early summer. We will, assisting at the station of departure. Call us on: however, try to find out earlier whether GTR has accepted the principle of alternating two-hourly CAR PARK off-peak services between Cooksbridge and GTR has advised that there are currently no plans 01444 470151 Plumpton. to introduce charges for using the station car park. Email [email protected] DELAY/REPAY GARDENS innovationblinds.co.uk FREE quotes Performance over the network has been dire 2016 was a challenging year for gardeners with and season ticket holders will receive a one-off a very late summer and a warm wet Spring that payment in compensation. From December 11th encouraged an army of giant slugs to attack welcome to innovation blinds & shutters compensation was also introduced for delays our wildflower seedlings. So in the Autumn we between 15 and 29 minutes. Forms are available planted lots of bulbs on the banks, which we home to a fantastic selection of blinds, shutters, from the Southern website or larger stations. As hope will survive the slugs. Children from Year 6 awnings, fly screens, curtains, tracks and poles GTR is paid a fee for running the service and at our local school spent a very wet and muddy all revenues paid to the government, it is the afternoon planting the bulbs and we look forward government rather than GTR which is funding to lots of colour next Spring. the compensation. CAN YOU HELP? DRIVER ONLY OPERATION Registered through: National Federation of More help is always needed to look after the station Roofing Contractors Ltd Everyone will be aware of the industrial action environment and campaign for a regular service. following GTR’s plan to make drivers responsible If you are interested please contact any member of for closing doors, with the intention also to run Solar Panel installation the Station Partnership or the Action Group. services without a second member of staff on undertaken by fully trained staff. board in “exceptional circumstances”. We have [email protected] We also provide a full design service. pressed Southern to tell us how those needing [email protected] assistance would cope at unmanned stations like [email protected] Cooksbridge and have been advised as follows: [email protected] Reputable for price, reliability and workmanship

Hamsey FLAT & PITCHED ROOFING schoolchildren Heritage Roofing • Commercial and Education • Domestic braved the weather Best Roofing Materials For Longevity • A Legacy of Quality Service to plant bulbs at • All advice is free and without obligation • Approved contractor to numerous local authorities the station • Award winning projects undertaken • Quality domestic, industrial & commercial roofing

RICHARD SOAN ROOFING SERVICES www.richardsoan.co.uk Tel: 01273 486110 Fax: 01273 488585 E: [email protected] 8 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 9 Litter, Waste and Recycling Mixed Recycling Bin for Cooksbridge ban on dogs there. The parish Council will be Because evaluating in due course a number of additional Lewes District Council (LDC) Waste & Recycling potential options suggested by LDC including every life is unique have agreed that a recycling waste bin can be the possibility of imposing/collecting fines. In the installed by the Cooksbridge bus stop to replace meantime, residents are advised that if you see the tired old yellow bin. The mixed waste and anyone with a dog, not clearing up, and they have recycling bin is currently being procured at a a vehicle - take the number plate. LDC will issue reduced rate by LDC on behalf of the parish a fine and are especially keen to crack down on council. It will consist of four compartments: some commercial dog walkers who may struggle general waste, cans/plastic bottles, glass bottles to clean up due to having several dogs to manage. and paper. The bin will be coloured dark blue and will be located between the bus shelter and the telephone box in the centre of Cooksbridge. Litter Heroes We have had a very encouraging start following Inc. Haine & Son Bin for Bevern Bridge Layby the appeal in the Summer 2016 edition of Hamsey News for individual members of the The A275 lay-by where cherries are sold is community to adopt their local patches, with currently being kindly cleared by Chailey Litter LDC will collect our filled sacks Hailsham 01323 840 049 3 residents having now come forward to adopt pickers, although it falls in Hamsey parish. We their patch. These residents clear their area Also at Eastbourne & Polegate are investigating options regarding a bin, to tackle edge of the parish, Hamsey Lane, The Drove and weekly or daily, picking up the rubbish as it the problem of littering by motorists. Beechwood Lane. www.cpjfield.co.uk builds and what a difference they make. Other All in all a very successful morning with a large Dog Fouling residents are picking up rubbish on an ad-hoc basis, which is very encouraging. We will be collection of full black bags and associated bits This issue is becoming an increasing problem doing all we can to encourage more residents of cars, etc. If you would like to join us next within our parish with the actions of a to adopt their local areas as a key initiative to time, come along to Beechwood Hall at 10am on thoughtless minority affecting the quality of complement the quarterly parish litter picks. Saturday March 11th. All equipment provided life of the majority of residents. This issue was and new faces are always very welcome. Skylift discussed at the Parish Council meeting of 17 March 11th Parish Litter Pick November 2016 when it was agreed that the Vision Contractors The last parish litter pick was held on Saturday LDC dog warden service would be contacted to 14th January. Tamsyn and Robert are continuing to talk with CHERRY PICKER HIRE see what might be done. Beechwood Trustees neighbouring parishes to share information FOR ALL PROPERTY Seven hardy souls braved the cold to walk off the and the parish council are discussing whether and join forces on litter and waste initiatives. RELATED TASKS to restrict dog walking at Beechwood Rural mince pies and address the January litter. We have many really exciting initiatives now Park to only dogs on leads, or possibly a total Between us we managed to cover the chailey in progress and more ideas in the pipeline and Our cherry picker has a 20m we would always welcome contributions and lift capacity and 360 turntable. suggestions for consideration. We continue Operated service for gutters, to share a vision of Hamsey parish as a chimney repairs, roofing, community working together to ensure a clean tree work and painting and sustainable environment for present and exterior buildings. future generations. Emergency call-outs · Award-winning care · Councillors Robert Baughan catered for - hourly, half day · Companionship services · and Tamsyn D’Arienzo and full day rates. · Home help services · f · Personal care services · GREAT RATES AND CHEAPER THAN SCAFFOLDING · Highly trained CAREGivers · EMERGENCY 24HR SERVICE - CALL ANYTIME Call 01273 437040 To advertise in Hamsey News 01273 401305 or 07976 538072 Email [email protected] www.homeinstead.co.uk/lewesdistrict&uckfield please call 01843 269513 [email protected] 8 Chandlers Mead, Lewes BN8 4SZ 10 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 11 News from Beechwood Hall and Rural Park Children’s

our parish clerk, Jenni Toomey, spotted a unit on Christmas Party offer through the pages of ‘The Clerk’ magazine. On the 17th of December Kate McBrown and The unit, which is just 3 years old, had been Natalie Welfare hosted a children’s Christmas decommissioned by Wokingham Town Council party at the Beechwood Hall. Around 40-50 and we are very grateful to them for gifting us this children from the parish attended with main valuable addition to the park. We were not able attraction being Luke and Gemima from to change the charge for use of the unit so it will Reptylers who brought a variety of reptiles from cost 20p for entry but that money will help a little snakes to spiders. (EEK!) We were also lucky towards the cleaning and maintenance costs. enough to be visited early by Santa, who made The community owes Jenni a great vote of a special detour to Hamsey parish despite his thanks for both her initiative and determination busy schedule, thank you Santa! Thanks go to The unusual load arrives The new toilet is lowered into position in acquiring and ensuring the installation of the Beechwood Hall Trustees who kindly funded this valuable addition to the Hall’s facilities, all the party with profits from the annual jumble LINKS WITH HAMSEY SCHOOL around the area, including the Monday Group. of which has been achieved at a remarkably low sale organised by Anita Walker and friends. We Appreciated by ramblers young and old, the cost to residents. would also like to thank all those who helped us At their December meeting, hall trustees Monday Group repair and replace styles and on the day. We look forward to making this an welcomed Allan Wright as the school’s footbridges and maintain our footpath and HALL IMPROVEMENTS annual event. representative and hoped his appointment bridleway network alongside the County Council. As well as the new toilet and the much admired Councillor Kate McBrown would strengthen the ties with Hamsey School. Jim is well known for producing wonderful bird new shelter in the grounds, improvements to The school benefits from free use of the hall for and bat boxes which he sells to raise funds for the the hall include a new freezer and a new cooker whole school events and their recent Christmas group. We wish him well for the future. He will for the kitchen. The hall will need a coat of paint production in the hall was enjoyed by many parish be very much missed. again this spring and trustees would be pleased residents. Now that Allan is on the board, we are Hall trustees are hoping to be adding further to hear from anyone who could carry out some hoping the school will be providing some news on trustees in the very near future small maintenance jobs including decorating their events and achievements that we can once as needed. We are also looking for a couple of again share, through the pages of this newsletter. WHAT A CONVENIENCE volunteers willing to occasionally maintain the On a damp and chilly day at the beginning planting at the hall. THANK YOU JIM of December an unusual large load arrived The trustees and everyone involved in the at Beechwood Hall. For some time now and COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT management of the Hall would like to thank following a requirement highlighted through the Trustees were pleased to offer the hall free of Jim Edwards who has been a trustee and the neighbourhood plan, trustees have considered charge to the Friends of Hamsey Church for maintenance hero for the hall for a number of a public toilet for users of Beechwood park. The their fund raising Christmas Fair and to make Santa came to visit years. Jim is involved in a number of projects cost seemed to put this out of reach but luckily the hall available for the Children’s Christmas Party. Its the second year for this event, the idea of parish councillor Kate McBrown. This year Kate had help from Natalie Welfare and some of the other mums in the village. Thanks to funds provided by the annual jumble sale at the To advertise in hall, the trustees were able to give £500 towards making this a free event for all the local children Hamsey News and their families. One local resident told 01273 51-55-05 please call trustees that this was the best Christmas party email [email protected] they had ever been to, so a hearty well done to 01843 269513 Kate and her hard working team. Definitely a AIRPORT SPECIALIST date for next years calendar. 1-16 seaters Parents joined the fun! 12 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 13 News from your Parish Church CHRISTMAS 2016 CELEBRATIONS a gorgeous thanksgiving for the harvest being NOT LONG TO EASTER! EXCITING HAMSEY CHURCH NEWS safely gathered in. The church was beautifully Our two churches were full to bursting for both Mothering Sunday this year falls on Sunday We are so delighted to have secured a grant from decorated ( it always smells amazingly too when Hamsey Carol Service (so packed that some 26th March. We shall have a very simple Family the Government’s Church Roofs Repair Fund all the fruit and vegetables arrive) Produce from people even chose to sit on the floor. We hope Service at 10.30am in Offham Church with posies and this together with several very generous the parish Harvest Festival on October 2 and the their backs didn’t suffer too much!) and for the for mums to show our love and thanks for all donations should mean that by the time this Primary School’s Harvest Festival, also led by the Christmas morning Crib Blessing and Family they mean to us. As always there will be delicious edition of Hamsey NEWS drops through your rector in church the following day, was donated Communion at Offham Church. cake and coffee afterwards in the Church Hall. letter box the renovation work should be well to Lewes Food Bank On the Sunday between Hamsey Carols and See you there! under way. None of this could have been possible In November the mood turned to quiet reflection Christmas Day itself, we had our annual Nativity Three weeks later on 16 April it will be Easter without the dogged hard work of the Friends of on Remembrance Sunday We were absolutely Play during the 10.30 service, performed by Sunday. Look out for the March /April church Hamsey. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude. delighted that Hamsey NEWS editor, Ailsa, youngsters from the Sunday School and Church newsletter which will have all details of Easter The first Hamsey Sunday of 2017 will be May 7th. was able to lay a wreath on behalf of the Parish Choir as well as Toddlers Tunes children. In all services. Our main one of course is the 10.30 See you there! Council. The wreath on behalf of the church was 33 children took part; all behaved beautifully family Communion on Easter Sunday followed May God bless you all laid by Church Warden Roland Gough. (including two month old Alice playing the part by an Easter Egg Hunt in the Church Grounds. Derek Bastide Rector of Baby Jesus. What a shame she won’t remember BEAT THE WINTER BLUES! her starring role!) After all the fun and magnificence of Christmas, Later, on the evening of December 17th, there the New Year can feel a bit flat. Some nice things Friends of Hamsey Church was a glorious Nine Lessons and Carols Service are being arranged by the church which should – how lucky we are to have such a magnificent go some way to beating the Winter Blues. Do CHRISTMAS FAIR GRANT church choir- followed by mulled wine and mince particularly put Friday evening March 24 in pies in the Church Hall. your diary when there will be a return visit to Beechwood Hall hosted the Charity Christmas We have received the main grant payment from We certainly felt that Christmas was very well the Church Hall by the fantastic Offham singing Fair at the end of November. We were delighted the government’s Listed Places of Worship Roof kept in this part of Sussex! duo Fleur de Paris. Lo and Nigel have a very to find that the crowds came, the rain held off Repair Scheme. Together with funds generously full professional diary so we are absolutely until 3pm and the Hamsey Harmony carol donated to the Friends, this has allowed a AND BEFORE CHRISTMAS … delighted they can fit us in again. Keep an eye signers sung beautifully. Stall holders, including contract to be awarded to carry out the essential What mixed emotions are celebrated every on the church newsletter for more up to date The Friends ‘Better Than Jumble’, Dace’s Neals re-roofing work over the period mid-March to autumn at Offham Church. As always the information on this and other fun events Yard, Wendy’s Garden Creations, Sylvie’s cards, early May. Harvest Festival at the beginning of October was Sammie’s Jewellery and Accessories, Doctors For Nepal, Holly Bearz and Doreen’s Jewellery BECOME A FRIEND OF HAMSEY enjoyed selling their Christmassy wares and The carol service CHURCH meeting lots of residents. The tea and cakes stall, was as popular If you would like to be kept up to date with future with mince pies and mulled wine, did a roaring as ever events you can join The Friends of Hamsey trade. We were delighted to raise over £1100 for Church by emailing [email protected] the Hamsey Church Restoration fund. or joining us on Facebook ‘Friends of Hamsey’. Many thanks go to everyone who baked, helped, Councillor Tamsyn d’Arienzo decorated, put up posters and to Beechwood Hall trustees for kindly letting us use the hall. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT The Carols by Candlelight service at Hamsey church in December was beautiful. The church was packed with people carrying their candles Angels preparing for and the atmosphere was wonderful. More on this their entrance in the from Judith Bastide in the St Peters Offham with The Carols by Candlelight service church Nativity Play Hamsey update. at Hamsey church was beautiful 14 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 15

Sussex Police Paws on Watch Key points about this service are: WARNING FOR RESIDENTS TO Paws on Watch is a project organised by Lewes POWER CUT? • Dialling 105 will put customers STEER CLEAR OF FAKE CALL District Community Safety Partnership. through to their local electricity network operator – the company BLOCKING SERVICES If you are a dog walker, you are likely to be out and about every day. This means you have an CALL 105 that manages the cables, power We’re warning Sussex residents to be cautious of opportunity to spot things happening and report lines and substations that deliver cold callers offering relief from nuisance phone A new national phone number anything suspicious to Sussex Police. electricity into homes and calls. We’ve received reports of fraudulent sales “105” has been launched by businesses in their area. calls encouraging householders to subscribe As you exercise your dog: electricity network operators to costly call blocking or telephone preference Act as an extra pair of eyes and ears in the for customers to call should they • 105 is just one of the ways that services, charging a monthly fee. community, reporting anything suspicious. need to report or get information customers can contact their However, the services offered will not block If you feel able, promote responsible dog about a power cut in their area. electricity network operator. They any unwanted calls, and could place personal ownership by encouraging other dog walkers to can also contact them by phone or information in the hands of criminals. For clear up after their dog – perhaps offer them a via their website, and most network genuine call blocking and telephone preference poo bag. operators are on social media too. services, residents are advised to sign up to Visit www.lewes.gov.uk/pawsonwatch to find • 105 is a free service for people in the free Telephone Preference Service (www. out more and to register, or call 01273 471600. tpsonline.org.uk) which offers one level of England, Scotland and Wales. protection. Call blocking devices approved by • Customers can call 105 no matter who ‘Secured by Design’, such as trueCall devices they choose to buy electricity from. (www.truecall.co.uk), are also available. Hamsey • Customers can also call 105 if they SOLAR TRICKSTERS Happy New Year spot damage to electricity power HOMEOWNERS with solar panels are being lines and substations that could put Fed & Oscar at the Blacksmiths in Offham threw targeted by salesmen making false claims about anyone in danger. If there’s a serious a well-attended New Years Eve bash with an their existing solar panels. ‘ecclesiastical’ theme. Much fun was had by all! immediate risk, they should call the FALSE CLAIM 1 Looking forward to the Burn’s Night supper now emergency services too. Salesmen are encouraging homeowners to and whatever surprises the Blacksmith’s have in replace their existing solar panels and claiming store for the rest of the year! that fire crews will not attend a fire involving older solar panels. This is false! The Fire Service will always attend a fire no matter the cause. To advertise in Hamsey News please call 01843 269513 FALSE CLAIM 2 Salesmen are offering free health checks on Solar PV installations in conjunction with The

Microgeneration Certificate Scheme (MCS) (an independent specialists in land rover, range rover, industry-led and nationally recognised quality Need computer help? discovery and Freelander. assurance scheme). This is false! MCS has not call David Kemp for Situated in the heart of Mid-Sussex our friendly, enthusiastic staff can assist you with all your Land Rover requirements. partnered with any installation or maintenance Ocomputer service and tune-up companies and does not carry out health checks O Our services include: setting up PCs, wireless broadband • MOT or maintenance. For more information visit the O • New spare parts & accessories MCS website. solving a wide range of PC problems • Servicing & repairs O • Off road equipment advice on buying a PC • Guaranteed second hand parts • Expedition preparation Friendly, local, • Chassis replacement 01273 475727 • Diesel & petrol engine To advertise in Hamsey News affordable and Tel: 01444 241457 Lewes Home Computers replacements jargon-free! Email: [email protected] • Competition vehicles built please call 01843 269513 A most unusual nun! [email protected] www.gumtree4x4.co.uk & modified 16 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 17 Monday Afternoon Club Home Instead Cooksbridge RECENT MEETINGS Bailey will be returning by popular demand to Senior care Telephone Box get us all fit and healthy in the gentlest possible There have been so many successful meetings way. What could be nicer on a wintery afternoon Local at-home care company, Home Instead BT recently posted a notice in the traditional in 2016 but out of all those this year’s Christmas than singing along to old favourites, watching Senior Care for Lewes and Uckfield, are thrilled red telephone box opposite Cooksbridge Lunch on Monday December 12th was a very Patsy’s superb dancing and perhaps trying out with the success of their recent Christmas gift station, to say that the telephone service, special occasion as we celebrated Caroline’s some moves ourselves On March 13 a speaker giving scheme, ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’. equipment and kiosk were to be removed. return to meetings, completely restored to full from Help the Aged will be coming along with Hamsey Parish Council has applied to adopt health. Never one to do things by halves (!) Caregivers and office staff at Home Instead lots of practical advice on how to avoid common the empty kiosk for use as a community library. Caroline celebrated by cooking her Christmas readily donated to the gift-giving scheme and scams and a month later on April 10 popular local Residents will be able to come and browse, Show –Stopper-a delicious turkey and ham pie were delighted when retailers Lush in Brighton speaker, Ian Everest, will be hosting a film show borrow and bring books. Also housed here with all the trimmings. Many thanks too to and From Victoria in Lewes also wanted to help. on a “Sussex farm in the 1950s” I think we will be will be the public notice board requested by a Church organist Joan who had cooked her light The idea was to provide gifts for older people in amazed at the changes there have been since then. the local community who might not receive a number of residents when responding to the as a feather Christmas pudding (we all want the Hamsey Neighbourhood Plan survey. recipe). It may have been the glass or two or New Year celebrations will be long over by present this Christmas. more of wine we had each had for lunch but we the time this edition of Hamsey NEWS comes To help with distributing the gifts, Uckfield did feel that after that delicious meal our singing through your letterbox but all of us running the Volunteer Group stepped forward. Alison Scutt of Christmas Carols ( ably led by Meriel) was Monday Afternoon Club –Caroline, Cherry, owner of Home Instead explained ‘we can’t think our best ever We’re already looking forward Janice, Meriel and myself- would like to wish of a better way to give back at Christmas, we are to the 2017 Christmas party – do put the date, you all a very Happy and Healthy 2017.And do so pleased we are able to support the work they Monday11th December at 12.30pm, in your diary. remember that the Monday Afternoon Club is do’. Sadly they are worried about the venture due open to all retired members of our community. to lack of funding and support and would like to PLANS FOR 2017 We’re a very friendly group so do pop along and reach out to the local community to help them We are now looking forward to a full and join us on the second Monday of the month- 2pm keep their wonderful work going. varied programme in 2017. Our first meeting in the Church Hall. Lifts are always available- Alison said “We provide care to older people on Monday January 9th is a Tea and Chat contact Caroline 01273 477151 or myself 01273 in their own homes. Our clients are assured of session- there should be a lot to catch up on after 474356 to arrange one. regular company from their caregivers. But with Christmas! Then on Monday February 13 Patsy Judith Bastide our ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ we have been able to reach out to older people in our community who, perhaps, don’t receive as many visitors This is a particularly good news story because as our clients and who would really appreciate Mark Wilson of Hartley Quinn Wilson, at knowing that people are thinking about them Cooksbridge Station, has kindly offered to this Christmas.” design and fit the interior shelving. Mark feels If you would like to support the passionately about conserving these well-loved Uckfield Volunteers visit their website iconic red telephone boxes and we are delighted www.uckfieldvolunteer.org.uk. to have his help. Mark wasn’t interested For more information about the services in adding his company signage to the job, provided by Home Instead Senior Care preferring to carry out the work without any Lewes District & Uckfield or about joining special recognition. But we wanted to say a big the team, please call 01273 437040/01825 ‘thank you’ from the Community. I believe Mark 605030 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/ likes a pint of Guinness, should you see him in lewesdistrict&uckfield a pub. Alison Scutt Cllr Tamsyn d’Arienzo

To advertise in Hamsey News please call 01843 269513 Monday Afternoon Club organisers at the Christmas party 18 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 19 JUMBLE SALE Please donate your unwanted Christmas gifts! Gooseberry Jelly, Dreaming of new growth and the Great British Bird Watch

Gooseberries are often an undervalued fruit, I have just bought myself a Gooseberry This year the jumble sale will be on March 25th from 2pm. being the ‘Marmite’ of the bush fruits – you ‘Hinnonmaki Red’, supposedly excellent sweet Hopefully the weather will be kind. either love them or hate them. However, for those flavour, for planting this spring so I will be If you have items you need to be collected please contact who can grow their own and use them straight making sure I net it well. I’m also venturing Anita and Tom Walker from March 1st on 01273 472595 from the bush they can have champagne like into starting a ‘Minarette’ Fruit Orchard. As a or email us on [email protected] qualities. Sadly, I know many of the Cooksbridge member of the Lewes & District Garden Society, allotmenteers had their Gooseberries I attended a very inspiring talk on pruning and All offers of help leafleting, collecting or storing jumble from 2pm mysteriously stripped overnight in 2016, many raising mini orchards. Using ‘Minarette’ root Friday 24th March or on the morning of 25th from 10am, as well as thought it must be a malicious Gooseberry thief, stocks and appropriate pruning you can raise helping at the sale, will be gratefully received. Volunteers also needed however I think it’s much more likely to be some a variety of fruit trees spaced only 75cm apart for cake making and serving teas. of our discerning local birds… I watched ‘my’ and growing to a maximum of 2m (so easy to Last years funds raised by the sale supported the well attended Thrush strip my Blueberry bush this year within harvest). The beauty I think is that you can raise Children’s Christmas Party. This was only possible because of minutes, favouring the just unripe fruits and a range of tree fruit, spanning a long season, gobbling them down in one. without having a huge glut all at one time. The the wonderful team of volunteers who help each year. Fortunately, Jane Baldwin gave me some of her ‘trees’ are arriving later in January … I will keep Thank you surplus frozen Gooseberry stock so I made a you informed on how they go, but I hope to have Anita Walker beautifully clear, Gooseberry Jelly the colour of Cherry’s, Pears and Plums to add to my existing pink champagne. Peach, Fig, Apricot, Apple, Orange, Lemon and Mirabelle trees … yummy. RECIPE Oh and don’t forget the Great British Bird Watch 1kg Gooseberries; 500ml water; 450g on 28th/29th January – we will then know how BARCOMBE NURSERIES sugar per pint of juice obtained. Wash many Gooseberry thieves we really have. 20 years of Gooseberries and stew in water until soft Happy dreaming. growing organic and pulpy. Put into a jelly bag and drain Wendy Darby, Garden Designer vegetables and www.wendydarby.co.uk. delivering them into a bowl overnight. Measure the juice GB-ORG-05 to your door and reheat, adding warmed sugar (450g) 2017 per pint of juice. Stir until sugar dissolved, and then boil rapidly until setting. Local, Organic Vegetable Growers and Box Delivery 01273-400011; [email protected] 20 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 21

Contacts Clerk to Hamsey Parish Council [email protected] or 01273 890621 Book Beechwood Hall 07762 118985 Helping you stay Report noise pollution independent in your home 01273 484340 To report fly tipping 3 Personal Care 01273 484999 3 Assistance in the Home 3 Companionship Police - to contact your local team, email [email protected] 3 Respite Support Non emergency - 101 For as long as you need: (in an emergency always dial 999) from one hour to live in care Twitter - @Lewes_Police Facebook - LewesPoliceUK T: 01273 483111 Internet - www.intheknow.community E: enquirieslewes@ Website - www.sussex.police.uk mylifelivingassistance.co.uk To report people parking at the slope of the bus stop: 03456 801129 Crimestoppers 0800 555111 INSTALLERS OF British Transport Police In-Ground and Surface Swimming Pools 0800 405040 Hot Tubs and Swim Spas ST RE FR E E T E N

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A A L I 0800 169 6565 V A Help the Aged SEE OUR WORKING DISPLAYS AT 0808 800 6565 North Court · Lewes · East Sussex · BN7 2AR www.gilesleisure.co.uk 01273 478454 Dental helpline 01273 403546 Trading standards 01323 418200 [email protected] To advertise in Hamsey CP School Hamsey News 01273 400370 please call Rev. Derek Bastide 01273 474356 01843 269513 www.offhamwithhamsey.org.uk 22 Hamsey NEWS Hamsey NEWS 23 Forthcoming Events Regular Events in Offham Church Hall Wednesday 1 March 12.30pm Friday 24 March 7.30pm Monday 10 April 2pm OPEN TO ALL Nice and Simple Details from Judith 01273 474356 Buffet Lunch Fleur de Paris in Concert – Monday Afternoon Club Every Sunday 10.15am Second Monday in month 2pm Thursday mornings (including (profits to Refugee Relief) Back by Popular Demand. Film Show: “A Sussex Farm Monday Afternoon Club Offham Church Hall Book early ! during the 1950s”- Ian Everest Snday Club school holidays) 10.00am All children welcome Tea, Chat and Talks for all Toddler Tunes open to all and everyone Offham Church Hall Offham Church Hall retired members of our Singing, dancing, toys, drinks very welcome community Saturday 25th March 2pm Sunday 16 April 10.30 am First Sunday in month 5.30pm and biscuits Hamsey Harmony – All under 5s very welcome Thursday 9th March 7.15pm Grand Jumble Sale Easter Sunday Service Tuesdays from 6.30pm in Hamsey Parish informal singing group Beechwood Hall Offham Church school term time Council meeting Details from Julie Nye 07970 Pilates with Amy Followed by Easter Egg Hunt Beechwood Hall 522058 (07812 346112) Sunday 26 March 10.30am in Church Grounds Monday 13 March 2pm Simple Mothering Sunday Monday Afternoon Club Service in Offham Church Monday 8 May 2pm How to avoid Common Scams With flower posies for all Monday Afternoon Club Regular Events in Beechwood Hall a speaker from Help the Aged mothers Tea and Chat Offham Church Hall Everyone very welcome Offham Church Hall Open to all Details from Jenni 07762 118985

Monday mornings Tuesday mornings Friday mornings from 9.30 am Yoga with Paul Keep fit with Katie Yoga with Robin Past Views of the Parish Slow Sunday Mornings Tuesday evenings Monday mid-morning with Amber Ward The Offham Choir practice every 2nd Sunday in the Tai Chi Chuan the Short Yang New members always form and Qi Gong exercises month at Beechwood Hall. garage in 1960 welcome 9am - 12pm. A nurturing morning of yoga, breathing Monday evenings Wednesday mornings practice and meditation. Brain & Body yoga Keep fit with Katie Suitable for everybody. £20. 1 hour classes with Claire To book contact Amber 07795 Alexander Moore 170803 / 01273 801594 / Wednesday afternoons at 7.30pm: £8 drop in. Body [email protected] & Brain classes are a form of 3.00-5.00pm energy yoga, a combination of After school Drama Club meridian stretching, ki-gong, rhythmic movement and Wednesday evenings mediation. The practice allows Tai-Ji with Mathew you to release from the body to still the mind. For further information please visit www. Thursday mornings bodynbrain.co.uk Yoga with Tamsin HAMSEY HARMONY Come and enjoy gorgeous harmonies in this fun, friendly and informal monthly singing group.

Whether folky or funky, silly or serious, all songs will be taught by ear in a warm and encouraging atmosphere. No experience is necessary. There will be occasional opportunities to sing in Old Hamsey Church and raise money for its restoration, but the emphasis is mainly on singing for pleasure. St Peter's Church Hall Offham BN7 3PX Sundays 5.30-7.30pm £6 Please contact Julie Nye or see website for dates. [email protected] 07970 522058 www.julienye.org/choirsandgroups