Findon News

February 2020

Community newsletter forFindon, West SussexIncluding the Church Parish ofFindon, Clapham & Patching

Findon News is published monthly and is available free of charge from various outlets throughoutFindon and can be viewed on the Findon Community website - www.findonvillage.orgFindon News does not endorse any advertisements published. No responsibility will be taken forerrors, omissions or any claims made by contributors. Opinions expressed are not those of thepublisher.

Articles for publication (maximum 650 words) can be submitted by email tofindonnews@zoho.com, or via the 'Findon News Box' in the Village Shop.

Closing Date for Next Publication : 20th February 2020

View Findon News on the Findon Village website

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Rev. Helena Buqué, Priest in Charge and Colin Cox, Curate: c/o The Rectory, School Hill, Findon, BN14 0TR. Tel: 873601

findoncp.rectory@btinternet.com www.findon-clapham-patching-churches.com

Skies are still grey and it is STILLraining as I write, but at least the daysare beginning to get longer! When youread this Christmastide will just beending with the Feast of Candlemas,but I’d like to take this opportunity tothank everyone who contributed to ourcelebrations in any way – those whocleaned our churches, those whodecorated the buildings so beautifullywith flowers and greenery and candles,all who welcomed visitors, read or ledour prayers, and of course all whocame to worship with us over theChristmas period. The FindonChristmas tree Festival was the bestyet, with well over 900 peopleattending, thank you to everyone whoentered a tree, and congratulations tothe creators of the winning tree,submitted by St John the BaptistSchool. A huge thank you to Lindy andTessa for spearheading and organisingthe festival, also to those who providedand served refreshments, and toMary Childs for her wonderfuldecorated cake stall.At our EpiphanyWorship in Findon,I had the privilegeof baptising mythree grandchildrenduring the Service(the youngest, ayear old sleptthroughout!) It wasa joy to have ourown young people,the band Basically,providing the musical accompanimenttoo. Thanks to David Gear for his

support. Epiphany means ‘revealing’and Jesus was revealed to the Magithrough the light of a star.The candle given to each candidate atbaptism, lit from the Paschal candle, issymbolic of the light of Christ. Althoughthe candle is blown out after theService, the light of Jesus can never beextinguished, but it needs care – that iswhy we need to come togetherregularly to worship, pray andencourage one another on our faithjourney.Jesus was revealed at Candlemas asthe long awaited Messiah, recognisedby an old man of great faith, Simeon,who took him into his arms and blessedhim, while prophesying that there wouldbe difficult times ahead as he grew up,and his mother also would feel his pain.At Candlemas, we celebrate Christ asthe light come into the world, turningaway from celebrating his birth andturning our faces towards the end ofJesus’ life, remembering how hesuffered, died and rose again for us, toreveal the immeasurable love of Godfor his creation.So, as the days grow longer and springapproaches, remember that light ofChrist within you from your ownbaptism. Tend it and care for it, so thatthe love of God burns brightly withinyou, shining forth in your daily life.Remember that ‘2020’ means perfecteyesight, so use this year to look withgreater depth and understanding at theworld around us, so together we canwork to make it more like God created itto be!Every blessing, Helena

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2nd February at 10.00amat Findon Church

We welcome back the groupHOPE RISING

From Littlehampton to lead our music forour informal service.

All are very welcome,refreshments after.

The draw for this year’s Christmas raffle took place outside Peckhams theButchers on 21st December 2019. We are please to announce this year’s prizeswinners being:1st Prize: Luxury Hamper (Red & White wine, Prosecco, Chocolates, Preserves, Biscuits) …… Mr Parsons2nd Prize: Turkey (kindly donated by Peckhams the Butchers) ..…June Monroe3rd Prize: Whiskey ……Jane4th Prize: Port & Stilton …..Chris Reed5th Prize: Port & Stilton …..Paul Hill, Village House6th Prize: Port & Stilton…..Jack McCracken7th Prize: Bottle of Prosecco.….Mr Gibbs8th Prize: Box of Chocolates & Drinks Bottle….. Judith Prior.

The raffle is entirely self-funding.Essentially, all takings are ploughedback into the purchase of prizes whichmake the “goodies” list such a long andappealing one. We thank everyone whohas participated in the raffle this year.We are sorry if you didn’t win, however,there’s always next year to haveanother go !We should add that the purchase of thelights themselves are supported by kinddonations from the Parish Council andthe Sheep Fair Committee. You mayhave noticed that this November &December’s awful weather has taken itstoll. As this article is written I note there

are at least 7 strings of lights that havefailed. If you feel that your business ororganisation would like to contribute asmall sum towards their replacementAND improving 2020’s show pleasecontact:Jan Mackerell: janmack@hotmail.comor Corrine Ball: corrineball@live.co.uk.We always acknowledge suchassistance at the switch on ceremony.Finally, we would once again like tothank all those who help install and takedown the lights, and in particularSouthern Cranes for the loan of theircherry picker.Thank you

The winner of the January £25 draw was number 20 - Val Kirk.

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We were delighted to welcome almost athousand visitors, a record number, toour seventh Christmas Tree Festival atSt John the Baptist Church in earlyDecember.There were twenty-one trees on displayall decorated by local organisations andbusinesses including five newexhibitors. There were some veryinnovative decorations including knittedvegetables, novelty dogs, bats, ecodecorations, fresh flowers and turnedwooden ornaments. Thank you to all ourexhibitors for your efforts and ingenuity.The tree receiving the most votes fromthe public was decorated by staff andpupils from St John the Baptist PrimarySchool who donated their £50 charitycheque to Turning Tides. The result ofthe contest was very close with Men inSheds coming second and TheCinnamon Trust third.During the Saturday visitors wereentertained with singing from bothBecca Lieu and The Monarch's WaySingers.The Friends of St John the BaptistChurch provided the excellentrefreshments with their usual efficiencyand did a brisk trade on both days.An added attraction this year, whichgenerated a lot of interest, was a slideshow entitled, “A Year in the Life of

Findon Church”, designed to givevisitors a snapshot of the differentactivities and events within the church.At the end of the two days the tombola,lucky dip, crafts, preserves and cakestall were all sold out, the large teddyand toy cow had been given names andfound new homes and all volunteerswere exhausted. However, spirits wereraised, maybe in more ways than one,when all the proceeds were countedand we found that we had raised £2,773towards church funds and £406 for theFriends who raise funds for the upkeepof our church building. This was arecord and a testament to all the hardwork put in by so many people inorganising and running the event. A bigthank you to you all.Tessa Mccormick & Lindy Laker

Last Tues of the month -Next Lunch

28th January 2020at Findon Village Hall - £5.

Everyone welcome.

Every Thursday during school term timeDifferent themes every week, Ages 12+

5.00pm till 6.30pmat The Rectory, Findon

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Commissions taken for original watercolour paintingsof flowers, trees, fruit, veg., fungi or indeed plant material of ANY kind.

Painting of wedding flowers to make an ideal gift.I also have a selection or prints and cards of my work for sale.

Reasonable rates.Please contact Maggie on

maggiemartin8@gmail.com or 07544 572702Maggie Martin, BA (Hons)., Dip. SBA.

The main theme of our January meetingwas our popular fun auction. It was avery enjoyable evening and with thehelp of our very own auctioneer, Sassy,we raised over £200 for ACWW(Associated Country Women of theWorld) by bidding for unwantedChristmas presents. ACWW is theWomen’s Institute chosen charity thatfunds small-scale, women-leddevelopment projects in communitiesaround the world.We also voted for the resolution wewish to be adopted by the National WI;‘A call to increase potential stem celldonor registration’ was the clearfavourite.A very big welcome to our newmembers.

Our next meeting is 13th February.Martin Frost will give a talk on the art ofvanishing fore-edge book painting andthe members are invited to bring anunusual family heirloom for our monthlycompetition.We have a selection of informative andentertaining talks at our meetings thisyear and we hope to continue towelcome new members.The next coffee morning is atDee Dee’s on Tuesday 18th February,from 10.30 – all welcome.

Paddy Winter - PresidentVisit our website –

https://findonvillagewi.wixsite.com/mysitefor the latest information of our various

groups oremail findonvillagewi@hotmail.co.uk

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PLANNINGThe two major planning applications inthe village, land at Elm Rise andSoldier’s Field House were consideredby South Downs National ParkAuthority (SDNPA) Planning Committeeon 16 January 2020. Both theChairman and the Deputy Chairman ofFPC Planning Committee attended andspoke against both developments.Both applications were refused onofficer recommendation. Details are onSDNPA planning portal and meetingitself was web cast and can be viewedvia the following link:https://southdowns.publici.tv/core/portal/homeWe shall watch with interest any nextsteps by the developers. The relatedUpdated Neighbourhood Plan update iscovered elsewhere in Findon News.An additional meeting of the FPCPlanning Committee was held on 16January 2020 to consider, amongstother items, nine new planningapplications for Findon that had beenreceived over the Xmas and New Yearperiod. The next meeting on the FPCPlanning Committee will be held onThursday 6 February and the Agendawill be published on 31 January 2020.

FINDON PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGThe next meeting of the Parish Councilwill be held on Monday 3 February2020 and the Agenda will be publishedon 28 January 2020 – as always,members of the public are welcome toattend full Council and Committeemeetings.

XMAS LIGHTSAnother excellent opening celebrationfor the switch on of the lights, the rafflewinners are detailed elsewhere inFindon News. The damp weathercaused some failures and althoughFindon Parish Council and FindonSheep Fair contribute annually anypersonal contributions would be helpful,in order to support our festivecelebrations.

DEFIBRILLATORWe are delighted to see the defibrillatoron Nepcote Green installed andworking, extending coverage fromFindon crossroads to the Downs side ofthe village. Familiarisation is being runon using the equipment and CPR at theVillage Hall on Thursday Feb 4 from10am to 12am. All are welcome andthere are posters in the Notice Boards.

TREE WARDENFindon Parish Council has engaged aVillage Tree Warden in Matthew Wardwho is already making a significantimpact on maintaining the ruralcharacter of the village. Matthew isdocumenting our tree coverage, andadvising on canopy changes, boughreduction and pollarding for appropriateplanning applications. Should yourequire advice he can be contacted viathe Parish Council:clerk@findonparishcouncil.gov.uk or01903 877225

www.findonparishcouncil.gov.uk

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I should like to say avery big thank you toeveryone whosupported the

Cinnamon Trust Christmas Fair andhelped us to raise more than £1300 tohelp both owners and their pets. It wasa wonderful occasion made possible byour lovely vicar, Helena, allowing us toagain use the church. The range of giftsand goodies on sale was amazing and Icannot thank everyone enough for allthe baking, sewing, decoration makingand lots more! You are all stars and I

look forward to some more successfulevents with you in the coming months.

I had a lovely letter of thanks fromAveril Jarvis, CInnamon Trust Founder,saying that our money is buying atherapeutic laser device to help the petsat the Hillside Sanctuary in Devonwhere most of the pets are elderly. It isbeing put to very good use.

Watch this space for upcoming events. Iwish you all a belated very Happy NewYear.

Maggie Martin

Despite tickets being on sale for amonth, and selling out by Wednesday22nd January, requests for tickets werereceived right up to opening time. Evenwith our enlarged hall we could havesqueezed in many more people, but wehave to abide by regulations andinsurances. Could we stretch to twoperformances? Who knows but maybesomething to consider in future.

The evening began with tasty pulledpork wraps, wonderfully cooked andpresented by the catering team of theVillage Hall Trust. The concert, held inthe Village Hall, represented all ageswith a talented and incredible line up.With a packed hall, and a stageborrowed from St John The BaptistSchool Findon, the scene was set, andthe audience were not disappointedenjoying sixteen acts from solo singers

and singing groups, a choir, aspiringactors and comedy acts. What wasmeant to be funny was funny and thesinging was of a very high standard withsome songs written by the singersthemselves.

Some performers, who had lived inFindon and whose family still residehere, wanted to come back andentertain us and it was a joy to welcomethem.

The concert was organised by theVillage Hall Trust and the Friends ofFindon Church, who maintain the fabricof our beautiful ancient Church, to raisemoney for both buildings. Thank you toall those who worked so hard to makethe evening happen and be such asuccess.

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You may think that the fair happens onone day in September only. It is,however, a year round task ofplanning, preparing, engaging with stallholders and contractors.

Part of the early jobs is to set thecoming years budget to ensure ourcosts are covered. Although the Fair isessentially a not-for-profit organisationwe do accrue monies for a “wet year”or two - when our takings get reducedand our costs go up (groundremediation and hire of extraequipment). Fortunately we have notbeen unduly affected for the last fewyears and, as such, our rainy day fundhas grown to the degree where, in2019, we have been able to make aseries of donations to Village causesand charities.

When we do so, the Sheep Fair have 2or 3 abiding principles that govern theirdecision making: a) there is a biastowards the young/youth of the Village,b) it goes towards the infrastructure ofNepcote Green, where the Fair is heldor c) the principle of making Findon agreat place to be.

With these principles in mind we arepleased to say that in 2019’sexceptional year the Sheep Fair havedonated to:

St Johns the Baptist School Governors (who in turn donate to the School, match funded by the Diocese) Friends of St John the Baptist Church Village Pre School Lambs Tails Play Group Light Up The Square Christmas

Lights Committee Youth Club Men in Sheds Extra/ replacement fencing at Nepcote Green (this, in addition, to funding the replacement main gates in 2019)

As said this year has been anexception but in other years the SheepFair do attempt to make smalldonations to Village charities andcauses. If you represent such anorganisation that falls within thecategories above and would like to beconsidered in future please contact usvia the Sheep Fair website:https://findonsheepfair.co.uk/contact/or grab one of the Sheep Faircommittee members.

Finally, on the subject of our 2020budget we are pleased to announcethat our charges for Field & Marqueestalls and evening event tickets remainthe same as in 2018 and 2019.

Thank you for supporting and attendingthis last year’s event. Hopefully we willsee you later this year - 9 months andcounting down!!

Findon Sheep Fair Committee

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The Examiner issued his final Reportand Recommendations to the SDNPA,as the local planning authority, on 9December 2019. The SDNPA resolvedto issue a Decision Notice that acceptsthe Examiner recommendations, at theSDNPA Planning Committee held on 16January 2020, despite therepresentations made by the UpdatedNeighbourhood Plan Working Groupand Findon Parish Council thatGovernment aspirations for localdemocracy in planning were beingundermined by this decision.

The Examiner concluded that theupdated Neighbourhood Plan withdifferent housing site allocations tothose in the new 2019 South DownsLocal Plan, did not meet one of the‘basic conditions’ for neighbourhoodplans and therefore recommended thatit should not proceed to a referendum,despite meeting the other ‘basicconditions’ which include followingproper local consultation on selection ofdifferent housing allocations and beingin general conformity with the new 2019South Downs Local Plan.

The SDNPA planning directorate andcommittee members have not beenminded, in the past or now, to use theiravailable powers to defer, or withdraw,the two housing site allocations forFindon, at Soldiers Field House andElm Rise, which are now included in the2019 South Downs Local Plan. Adeferral or withdrawal of these twohousing site allocations would havebeen a more democratic and locallysensitive response by the SDNPA to the

different, less harmful and locallypreferred housing site allocations thatemerged in the updated NeighbourhoodPlan.

As a consequence the Examiner’s viewis that, if the two Plans with differenthousing allocations were to be allowedto coexist, that would result in anunwelcome lack of ‘clarity in planningpolicy’ on housing allocation sites inFindon and therefore the allocations inthe new 2019 South Downs Local Planalone should prevail, even though anupdated Neighbourhood Plan would bethe latest Development Plan documentfor Findon. ‘Clarity in planning policy’ isa requirement of the government’sNational Planning Policy Framework(NPPF) and conformity with the NPPF isone of the ‘basic conditions’ which haveto be met by neighbourhood plans.

Findon Parish Council have consistentlyobjected to the two SDNPA allocationsites at all stages of preparation andconsultation on the South Downs LocalPlan since November 2016, when thetwo sites were first proposed, by theSDNPA, but then only on a confidentialbasis until April 2017. These proposedallocations for Findon had emergedfrom earlier private negotiationsbetween the SDNPA, the landownersand their agents about the capacity andavailability for bringing forward housingdevelopment schemes at Soldiers FieldHouse and Elm Rise, as it had becomeclear to the SDNPA that housingallocations were not going to included inthe 2016 Neighbourhood Plan andtherefore that responsibility passed to

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them as the local planning authority.That responsibility however stillrequired the SDNPA to properly consultwith Findon Parish Council and thecommunity on options for housing siteallocations.

Both the Inspector of the South DownsLocal Plan and the Examiner of theupdated Findon Neighbourhood Planacknowledged that robust, local,housing location preference surveyshad been undertaken during thepreparation of the updatedNeighbourhood Plan and that the twohousing allocation sites proposed in theSouth Downs Local Plan were the leastpreferred by some considerable marginof the eight identified locations for newhousing on the edge of Findon.

The Inspector’s further view howeverwas that the selection of locations fornew housing was ‘necessarilysubjective’ and that although the localcommunity in Findon had taken adifferent view to the SDNPA on theextent of harm to local landscape andlocal heritage that would arise if theSDNPA allocation sites weredeveloped, this was not in itself asufficient reason to defer or withdrawthe two allocations in the new 2019South Downs Local Plan, if the SDNPAwere not minded to do so.

Although the emerging updatedNeighbourhood Plan, which includedrobust justification of the results of thepreferred housing location surveys, athorough evidence base which haddemonstrated local landscape andheritage harm which would arise from

the SDNPA housing site allocations andhad positively proposed different, lessharmful locations for new housing, theExaminer concluded, that these werenot sufficient grounds alone, in planningterms, for the two allocations in theSouth Downs Local Plan to bewithdrawn, if the SDNPA were notminded to do so, despite governmentaspirations for neighbourhood planningwhich sought to give local people aproper say in the location of newhousing development in their own area.

Findon Parish Council, the UpdatedNeighbourhood Plan Working Groupand the community in Findon willcontinue to express disappointment atthe stance taken by the SDNPA, whichis at odds with government aspirationsfor local involvement in planningintroduced in the 2011 Localism Actand the SDNPA’s own active promotionof the benefits of neighbourhoodplanning. Although lawful, the SDNPAapproach may be seen as a somewhatregressive and hypocritical approach tolocal democracy in planning, by aNational Park authority, which being anunelected body, in contrast to otherlocal planning authorities, means thatthere are no councillors or membersable to lobby on behalf of localcommunities during the preparation ofneighbourhood plans.

It is perplexing that Findon appears tobe the only community in the NationalPark where the SDNPA has not beenminded to support local preferences forthe location of new housingdevelopment through the

Continued from Page 15

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neighbourhood planning process andhas been determined to bring forwardnew housing development at locationswhich will cause permanent harm to thelocal downland landscape and theunique and valued local heritage ofFindon.

Findon Parish Council and the UpdatedNeighbourhood Plan Working Grouphave used their very best endeavours togive the community in Findon thatproper say on where new housingshould be located in and around thevillage, but sadly, or even perhapsreprehensibly, the SDNPA haveconsistently taken a different view andpromoted their own preferred locations.It is unfortunately the community whowill experience for years to come thereal harm to the local landscape andlocal heritage that will result fromhousing development at Soldiers FieldHouse and Elm Rise, and the loss oftrust in local democracy in planning, notthe SDNPA planning directorate ormembers. Nevertheless Findon ParishCouncil will continue to engagepositively with the SDNPA to conserveand enhance the local landscape andheritage in the National Park and

support sustainable development at theleast harmful locations.

There are now unfortunately no further,effective planning or legal challenges tothe housing site allocations for Findonin the 2019 South Downs Local Plan.However formal objections to currentand future planning applications on thetwo sites can still be, and should be,made through the planning applicationconsultation process, on grounds ofsubstantial local landscape and localheritage harm, inappropriate design,layout and access where you feel thatto be the case with proposals that aresubmitted.

Finally, the Examiner did recommendthat the updated Neighbourhood Plan,without the housing allocation and localgap policies, but with otheramendments for closer alignment withnew South Downs Local Plan policiesshould proceed. However that wouldnot require a referendum and could befinalised directly with the SDNPA andhimself.

Thank you for all your valued supportover the last three years.

Updated Findon Neighbourhood PlanWorking Group 20 January 2020

Be Safe - Be seenDon’t forget to carry a torch or wear reflective clothingduring these dark dreary winter afternoons and evenings.

You cannot be seen by motorists if you arewearing dark clothing in unlit areas.

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Well it is a long story but I will try to be asbrief as I can.Gay and I had lived very happily in Hovefor more years than we can remember but,as retirement arrived, our thoughts movedtowards either updating our home ofalmost 25 years or moving to a villagewithin a 15 mile radius of Brighton. Aftermuch tooing and froing we made adecision to move and started looking atDitchling, Hassocks, Hurstpierpoint,Steyning etc but strangely Findon (for nogood reason) failed to feature in ourthoughts. Our search dragged on andmore than once we almost becameresigned to never moving. A turning point arose when very goodfriends, and near Hove neighbours, of ours– Ann and Ian Hollyhomes – announcedthat there were going to be moving toFindon. We accompanied them onegloriously sunny weekend day to see thehouse they were intending to purchase(just to look at it from the outside) but webumped into the owner and his wife andended up spending time with them over apleasant lunchtime drink at the VillageHouse – our introduction to Findon hadbeen made.Over following months, once Ann and Ianhad actually moved, we joined them againon many occasions walking dogs on thegreen and surrounding countryside,catching up on films we had missed at thecinema first time round and enjoying themat the Village Hall film nights. We alsostarted to hear stories from Ann and Ian ofthe new friends they had met and we gotsome flavour of the activities around thevillage.

Slowly but surely the penny started to drop thatmaybe we too could be as happy as

Ann and Ian with a move to Findon.Having arrived at this conclusion the

process of actually moving was relativelystraightforward although not without theinevitable ups and downs. On 27 April2018 we actually arrived in Findon.Shortly before moving we had lost our twodogs in fairly quick succession and with amove in prospect we thought it best to waituntil we had settled in before getting a newdog. Well having met a number of Findonresidents we mentioned this as ourintention and within weeks a new fourlegged arrival, Evie, came to live with usand we are sure she loves living in Findonas much as her grateful owners do!!We have been staggered at the range ofactivity that takes place within the villageand the professional approach thateveryone takes in organising events andactivities. We now spend some weekswithout a night at home!! – monthlyquizzes, book club, choir, gardenassociation, the Village shop, FindonNews, Cinnamon Trust, Film night, MessyChurch, Sunday Church services, themedevenings at the local pubs, coffeemornings, curry evenings and much muchmore happily fill our time. All of theseactivities undertaken with the fantasticallywelcoming new friends we have made inFindon.

We sit back and think how lucky we are tohave found Findon – surely one of themost active and friendly villages in Sussexif not further afield.

EVIE

The Malaysian Tea CompanyFindon based & selling single

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Tea Bags: These double-chamber black-tea bagsuse the finest Orange Pekoe tea leavesAlso available as Earl Grey and in other Fruit flavours.

Loose Leaf Black Tea: Available in bothOrange Pekoe & BOPF (Broken O P Fannings)

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Looking through Findon News I sawadvertised a 1950's ChristmasParty with Elvis on Saturday 14thDecember with a 3 course supper, atthe Findon Village Hall. I thought thatwould be brilliant for the PAWSVolunteers Christmas get-together. Iimmediately dashed down toPeckhams Butchers and bought 20tickets. I asked the Volunteers howmany wanted to come and had to goback for more tickets. Congratulations tothe Findon Village Hall Trust. What anight it was. The food was wonderful,lots of our Volunteers are Veganor Vegatarians and all were catered for,the service was so well organised, nowaiting, better than most restaurants.ELVIS was sensational and hadeveryone up dancing and singing at thetop of their voices, all the Elvis songs, allnight. Lots of the other guests camedressed up in 50's clothes, one table allthe men wore black Elvis wigs withsideburns. It was so lovely to see themall up dancing having such a wonderfultime. We all agreed we all had a brilliantevening.We had no room at the inn for Cats, orGuinea-pigs over Christmas.Worthing Hospital rang to ask if wecould take in three cats belonging to avery elderly sick old man who had norelatives, but we had just given the lastspace to another patient's Cat, who ishaving Chemotherapy and couldn't havea cat in her home. We have never beenso full, three sick Hedgehogs areimproving and we also had a sick hen.In the mornings it takes so much timegiving medicine, and eye drops toanimals and injections to a diabetic cat.

Sheila retired at Christmas. Shehas always run the office, dealt with allthe mail, paperwork, charity boxes and ahundred other tasks. We will all missher.Our lovely lady who has always run ourlittle Charity shop here at the sanctuaryon a Sunday had a bad fall andfractured her hip, we have all been soworried, she is over 90yrs and hasalways been so fit, get well soon GladLambourne we need you back runningthe shop.Grateful thanks to Maggie Martin whoevery week, year in year out has alwaysmade cupcakes with chocolate drops ontop to look like paws, to sell to ourvisitors on our open days every Sunday.Also, our thanks to Lorna who donatedall the beautiful Christmas cakes shemade for our Christmas Raffle.We get through so many newspapers aweek and are always running out, ifanyone has any spare newspaperswe would appreciate it if you could dropthem off to us at the Sanctuary.

from Stacey.

Paws Animal Sanctuary15 The Oval, Findon Village, WestSussex BN14 0TN01903 872 734 / 0790 447 6819email: pawsanimals@hotmail.co.ukWe never use an ansaphone so keeptrying someone is always around.24hrs. 7days a week.www.pawsanimalsanctuaryfindon.co.ukRegistered Charity 1096231

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Groceries; Bread; Cakes; Freshly made Sandwiches;Beers, Wine & Spirits; Tobacco; Cards

Shop Opening Hours:Mon to Sat 07:00 - 19:00Sunday 07:00 - 12:00

Tel:01903 877110

www.findonvillagestore.org findonvillageshop@gmail.com

Run by the Community for the Community

FINDON VILLAGE STORE

Horsham RoadFindon

BN14 0TF

Post Office Opening Hours:Mon to Sat 08:30 - 17:30Sunday 08:30 - 12.00

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Fifty years ago in 1969, Harold Wilsonwas our Prime Minister; the media wasfull of stories about men on the moon;the Beatles gave their last publicperformance; Concorde had its first testflight; Woodstock happened andRichard Burton bought his then wifeElizabeth Taylor a 69-carat diamondring costing a mere $1.5million! With allthis excitement maybe we can forgivethe press (even the local rags) foroverlooking another momentous eventin our more rustic history - the fact thatJulian Harwood started work atFindon Post Office.Harold Wilson once said that a week isa long time in politics, he certainly didn’tlast 50 years in his business; and theAmericans didn’t hang around very longon the moon. In fact all of the peopleand events mentioned here havedisappeared into the pages of history.Luckily some people have more stayingpower and, in our case, it’s thanks toJulian that for the past half-a-century we have maintained a corner-stone of our village community.When Julian’s family ownedthe business, it wasn’t our villagestore, rather it was our postoffice, newspaper/sweetstore and a general all-round usefullocal shop that provided excellentservice to its community. Whilst similarbusinesses all over the country havenot survived (something that isfrequently mentioned in the press),our store has thrived.Many of us have happy memories ofbeing served here over the years.When Julian took over the business weall fondly remember him at thehelm with his Mother, Gwen, still

assisting and both providing that warmwelcome that makes you want to stickaround and spend your money locally.An ethos and spirit that still existstoday, thanks in no small part to Julian’scontinued presence.When Julian decided to sell thebusiness, the new owners, Tony andKaren, very sensibly retained Julian torun the Post Office,as did subsequentowners, meaning that through goodtimes and bad the shop - by now thevillage’s main grocery store -always had that dependable main-staythat ensured that the communitycould sustain a Post Office, well-run bysomeone who could be relied upon tonot panic, (even when his favouriteteam, Brighton and Hove Albion, wereon a losing streak).When the time came to revive ourcommunity store Julian was again avaluable asset, able to advise as wellas help us set up a business that is nowa nationally renowned example of howa well-run community cooperativeshould operate.As a community we unite to say thankyou to Julian for your past service andwe express our sincere wish that youwill stick around as a guide for others tofollow yourexample.Findon is happyto echo thesentiment:“Thank youvery muchJulian”.

>> 24 <<

A scheme that partners volunteers witholder residents who want help tobecome more active in their localcommunity or who need practicalsupport is appealing for new recruits.

The Good Neighbours scheme is runon the County Council’s behalf by theRoyal Voluntary Service (RVS). Itconnects people who may be feelingisolated with volunteers who offer theirhelp during 12 arranged home visits.

Volunteers offer practical help to clientssuch as accompanying them to theshops, enabling people to take up ahobby and supporting them to attendlocal groups, clubs and activities. Thiscan help people to re-engage withothers and improve their self-confidence.

The RVS is appealing for newvolunteers to donate their time to helpclients of the Good Neighbours schemeacross West Sussex, particularly in theCrawley and Worthing areas wherethere are currently several people on awaiting list to receive assistance.

There are currently around 80volunteers in the Crawley, Horshamand Mid Sussex area, with 120 clients.In Chichester, Arun, Adur and Worthingthere are approximately 85 volunteersand 110 clients.

Helen Kirkham, Service Manager at theRVS, said: “With the growing need forservices that support people to remainindependent in their later years, Royal

Voluntary Service is passionate abouthelping people enjoy more active,healthier and happier lives.

“Our Good Neighbours service providessupport to those most at risk of socialisolation across West Sussex, withmany of our dedicated volunteersgiving an hour of their time each weekto share their skills, knowledge andexperience with others.

“As an organisation, Royal VoluntaryService wants to inspire more people toget involved with volunteering and inturn make a real difference within theirlocal community.”

Amanda Jupp, West Sussex CountyCouncil Cabinet Member for Adults andHealth, said: “Reducing social isolationis a key priority for our AgeWell campaign. Many people want tokeep active and busy, but might justneed a little bit of practical help orsomeone to boost their confidence andget them started.

“The Good Neighbours scheme canoffer them that support, but for thosewho volunteer it provides a sense ofsatisfaction that they are givingsomething back to people in their localcommunity who need their help.”

A key feature of the service is the 'safeand well' checks that volunteers carryout during all home visits, looking outfor any changes in the client’s health,wellbeing or home surroundings. It canalso link you with a wide range of

>> 25 <<

organisations across West Sussex thatprovide further advice, services andactivities.

Kevin Poole currently volunteers for theGood Neighbours scheme in Crawleyand has helped several clients regaintheir confidence, independence and getinvolved with local community activities.

Kevin said: “If someone is thinking ofvolunteering for the RVS, go and seeyour local group. You can commit asmuch or as little as you can fit in withyour everyday life and you will not

regret it. It has been more enjoyablethan I ever thought it would be.”

Good Neighbours West Sussex isavailable free of charge, but clients willneed to meet any associated expenses,such as phone calls, travel and activitycharges.

For more information about the GoodNeighbours scheme in the Adur, Arun,Chichester and Worthing districts,phone 01903 257019 or emailgnwscoastal@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

>> 26 <<

One-to-one yoga sessions addressingyour specific health needs

and conditions.Take an active role in your journeytowards your healing and wellness.

Practices are tailored especially for you.No previous yoga experience required.

For more information on classesand yoga therapy, please get in touch:

hello@yogawithrenee.comwww.yogawithrenee.com

07913 230641

L. Payne Roofing07879 909274Leadwork, roof

and chimney repairs,new roofs

Over 20 years experienceFree estimates given

All aspects of roofing workundertaken including

flat roofs, re-roofsand re-pointing.

>> 27 <<

There are numerous health and well-being options available to us thesedays. A yoga class is one such option,but what is yoga therapy? How is itdifferent from a yoga class?In a yoga class, the focus is usually onlearning and refining yoga techniquesor poses while being with a group ofpeople, who may each have differentneeds and goals. Yoga therapyaddresses health concerns orconditions that are specific to anindividual. Hence, it is held on a one-to-one basis or sometimes in small,themed groups.Yoga therapy can help an individualwith specific day-to-day issues rangingfrom coping with stress and anxiety, tomanaging pain or helping to do thingssuch as putting on a coat after an injury.Its aim is to help with healing so that wecan live with ease and comfort.

As a yoga therapist, I collaborate withmy clients to develop a practice that isbased on their goals and healthrequirements. We work at a pace andlevel that is suitable and comfortable forthem. The personalized practice issomething they can take away and doon their own whenever or whereverappropriate. As a result, the client takesan active role in their journey towardshealing and wellness.Yoga therapy can be an idealintroduction to yoga for a beginner, andit can also deepen the knowledge of amore experienced yoga practitioner. Noprevious experience or knowledge ofyoga is necessary.If you think yoga therapy is somethingthat could help you or someone youknow, please reach out and connectwith me.

Renee Villanueva-LastYoga teacher and yoga therapist

All the latest villagenews

and eventsare on the website

w w w . f i n d o n v i l l a g e . o r g

Our Services: Free Valuations Insurance Valuations Silver & Gold Polishing Furniture Restorations Buy and Sell - New items weekly Silver and Gold Bought

01903 872205 / 07740 947847www.2thesq.co.uk / adamcollard71@yahoo.co.uk

>> 29 <<

Planning applications for Findon areunder the authority of South DownsNational Park and listed on the SDNPAwebsite (www.southdowns.gov.uk).Findon Parish Council (FPC) PlanningCommittee meetings are scheduledmonthly to consult on planningapplications received from the SouthDowns National Park Authority(SDNPA). Parish Consultation Letters(PCL) received from the SDNPA aredisplayed on the Notice Boards outsidethe newsagents and the Village Hall,and published on the FPC website(http://findon.arun.gov.uk) along withthe schedule of Committee meetingdates.Please note that due to Findon Newspublication deadlines, someapplications may have already beenplaced before the Committee.Residents should check the NoticeBoards and FPC website regularly toview notices and meeting details.Any enquiries should be address to theFPC Clerk - 01903 877225.Since the last issue of Findon News,the following Planning Applicationshave been posted on the SDNPAwebsite:

Convert garage to annex/officeBaytrees Findon Road FindonBN14 0TLRef. No: SDNP/20/00141/PRE

Rear Extension and Loft ConversionTree Cottage25 High Street Findon BN14 0SZRef. No: SDNP/20/00038/HOUS

Pollard 1 x Norway MaplePendle Hill 38 Nepcote Lane FindonBN14 0SGRef. No: SDNP/20/00032/TPORaise canopy by 5 meters andreduce radial spread by 1 meterThe Haven 46 Nepcote Lane FindonBN14 0SLRef. No: SDNP/20/00011/TPO

Remove lowest 2 limbs to sycamore(west of driveway) and thin canopyby 5%The Bermudas 44 Nepcote LaneFindon BN14 0SLRef. No: SDNP/20/00240/TPO

New pitched roof over existingdouble garage4 Summerfields Findon BN14 0TURef. No: SDNP/19/06095/HOUS

Apply for change of use for ourbusiness as compounders &rectifiers of spirit drinksThe Barn, Kingswood Livery StablesHorsham Road Findon BN14 0RGRef. No: SDNP/19/06114/PRE

Partial change of use of ground floorwithin the existing dwelling to anevents venue (use class D2).Surfacing works to field to the eastof existing stables, resulting in thecreation of a car parking areaserving the venue.Findon Place Horsham Road FindonBN14 0RFRef. No: SDNP/19/05999/FUL

Continued on Page 27

>> 30 <<

KJ ROBERTSProperty Maintenanceand Electrical services

Friendly locally based tradesman.Interior/exterior decorating, tiling, flooring,

bathrooms, kitchens, decking, patios, fencingand any odd jobs.

All Electrical work undertaken.No job too small, Free estimates.

Tel Findon 873913mobile 07947233424

Email jankevrob@aol.com

28 Guildbourne Centre, Worthing(opposite Wilkinsons)

Beautiful, Affordable Jewellery & Gifts• Stunning sterling silver jewellery

• Contemporary titanium, steel& leather jewellery

• Unusual and unique gifts& greetings cards for all occasions

Tel: 01903 218994 www.sewsilver.com

UNABLE TO TENDA LOVED ONE'S GRAVE

A service Tailored to yourRequirements and pockets,

we can do it for you.Findon / Worthing area

For a leaflet, more informationor to arrange an appointmentPlease call G. C. F. Services

T Tel : 01903 873813 or 07785230913email : gcfgraves@aol.com

website : www.gcfservices.com

CLIP CLOPSHoliday Accommodation

In Findon VillageLovely spacious self cateringaccommodation - sleeps twoTwin bedroom,Sitting room,

Shower bathroom,lovely spacious sun lounge,

Kitchen and garden.Dogs welcome.

Easy walk to local pub & shopsor onto the downs.

Minimum stay 3 nights.Contact: Karen 07886650747

karmitage58@gmail.com

JULIE JORDANProfessional Curtain Maker

Fabrics Supplied Alterations

and Interior DesignPhone for free estimates

01903 263823 / 07801687155Juliejordan100@yahoo.co.uk

* *

R J Maslin of Worthing* Traditional French Polishing *

* Antique Preservation *Modern & Antique Furniture

Restoration & RepairsTel: 01903 719879

Mobile: 07743528139

>> 31 <<

Continued from Page 25

Alterations to partial change of useof the ground floor area within theexisting dwelling to an events venue(use class D2). Surfacing works tofield to the east of existing stables,resulting in the creation of a carparking area serving the venue.Findon Place Horsham Road FindonBN14 0RFRef. No: SDNP/19/06000/LISChange of Use of existinggarage/storage to a mixed use ofdog grooming business andincidental use.Glimpses Stable Lane Findon WorthingBN14 0RRRef. No: SDNP/19/05886/HOUSReduce boughs on Horse Chestnut7 Convent Gardens Findon BN14 0RZRef. No: SDNP/19/05842/TPO

Replacement OutbuildingAverys House56 High Street Findon BN14 0SZRef. No: SDNP/19/05787/HOUS

Replacement OutbuildingAverys House 56 High Street FindonBN14 0SZRef. No: SDNP/19/05788/LISSingle storey extensionUnderhill Stable Lane FindonBN14 0RRRef. No: SDNP/19/05784/HOUSRemove sections of overhangingbranches of Sycamore trees to thenorth of Nepcote Lane, and to raiseto 2.2m the canopies of FieldMaples, Holm Oaks and Oakslocated close to the western side ofthe junction of Nepcote Lane andConvent Gardens.Corner of Convent Gardens FindonRef. No: SDNP/19/05839/TPOA PROPOSED SINGLE STOREYREAR EXTENSION, GARAGECONVERSION INTO HAPITABLESPACE & INTERNAL ALTERATIONS(GROUND FLOOR)8 Downland Close Findon BN14 0UJRef. No: SDNP/19/05631/HOUS

Next Messy ChurchTuesday 5th February 3.30pm

(and every first Tuesday of month)All welcome

Further information ringRectory on 873601

atThe Tajdar Restaurant

Ladies - Monday 3rd Feb / 2 Mar@ 7.00pm

First Monday of the month* * * * *

Men - Thursday 30 Jan / 27 Feb@ 7.15pm

Last Thursday of the monthAll welcome

>> 32 <<

Don’t forgetto test it!

>> 33 <<

Rev. Helena Buqué, Priest in Charge and Rev. Colin Cox, Curate:c/o The Rectory, School Hill, Findon BN14 0TR.

Tel: 873601, findoncprectory@gmail.com

Walking together in the Way of Christ and sharing His love with otherswww.findon-clapham-patching-churches.com

Sunday 2nd

Presentation of ChristIn Temple; Candlemas

08.00am10.00am10.00am

Eucharist at FindonSung Eucharist at ClaphamWorship and Praise Service at Findon

Sunday 9th

Third before Lent08.00am09.30am

Eucharist at PatchingSung Eucharist at Findon

Sunday 16th

Second before Lent

08.00am09.30am10.00am

Eucharist at FindonFamily Communion at FindonSung Eucharist at Patching

Sunday 23rd

Sunday next before Lent

08.00am09.30am10.00am

Eucharist at ClaphamSung Eucharist at FindonFamily Service at Patching

Baptisms - January: Jasmine Robinson, Thea Robinson and Leon RobinsonFunerals - January: Pauline RookeMessy Church: Next meeting 4th February. Starting at 3.30pm-5.45pm atFindon Village Hall. All children and their grown-ups welcome. (1st Tuesday ofthe month. TERM TIME ONLY.Youth Club: Every Thursday, with different themes every week(TERM TIME ONLY). Ages 12+, 5pm till 6.30pm at The Rectory, Findon.Curry Nights: The next Findon Tajdar Curry Nights areThurs 27th Feb. at 7.30pm (Men - last Thursday of the month) andMon 3rd Feb at 7.00pm (Ladies - First Monday of the month).Quiet Time in Findon Church: Next Quiet Time 10th February at 6pm (2ndMonday of the month).Afternoon Plus: Next Meeting 20th February at 2.30pm. Different events everymonth, details on the pew sheets or contact the rectory office. (No meeting inAugust). (3rd Thursday of the month)Light Lunch @ 1pm: Next meeting 25th February. Findon Village Hall. £5.Everyone welcome. (Last Tuesday of the month).

>> 34 <<

Monday 9am - 4pmTuesday 9am - 4pmWednesday 9am - 2pmThursday 9am - 4pm Friday 9am - 4pmSaturday 9am - 3pm

Sunday 10am - 1pm

>> 35 <<

The Village Hall websiteprovides contact and booking details as well as listings of forthcoming events

www.findonvillagehall.com

For all booking enquiries pleaseEmail findonhallbooking@gmail.com

Phone no: 07598 144802We aim to respond to missed calls within 48hrs.

NB. Booking times quoted are NOT necessarily the event start time

Weekly Day TimeCarpet Bowls Monday 14:30Lambstails (Term Time) Thursday 10:00 – 12:00Line Dancing Wednesdays 09:45Danceaholics Sunday 18:30Just Yoga Monday 10:30Tai Chi Friday 10:00 – 11:30You Yoga Tuesday 18:45Reduce Stress & Stiffness Yoga Wednesday 19:30Paracise Wednesday 14:00

Fortnightly Date TimeCircle Dancing 10th/24th 19:10

Monthly Date TimeBead Magicians 18th 09:00Downs WI 11th 13:45Gardens Association 28th 18:30Messy Church 4th 15:30Village WI 13th 19:30Meditation 17th 19:30Tastevin n/a 19:00Light Lunch 25th 12:00200 Club n/a 18:30

Committee RoomN/A

Other Events Date TimeFVHT Film Night 21st Doors open 6.30pmArt Class 1st 9.00

>> 36 <<