We would like to apologise for a mistake in the September crossword page, the answers for the July crossword were incorrect.  You can see the correct answers below.

June 2026 Crossword Answers 

June Anagram – PARASOL

July 2026 Crossword Answers 

July Anagram – TROPICAL

We thank you for your understanding and wish you the best of luck for this month’s crossword. For the chance to win one of our crossword prizes enter via our website here. 

Good luck!

Regular septic tank maintenance is essential for Sussex homeowners to prevent costly breakdowns and protect the environment. The Drain Guys provide professional domestic septic tank emptying across Sussex, with the added benefit of the emptying service being zero-rated for VAT, helping homeowners to maintain their wastewater systems whilst saving on essential septic tank maintenance.

• Around 5–10% of households in Sussex rely on septic tanks
• Regular septic tank emptying can help homeowners to prevent costly repairs, unpleasant odours, and system failures
• Homeowners spend an average of £500 repairing their septic tank, with major structural repairs sometimes costing up to £2,000
• Domestic septic tank emptying services are zero-rated for VAT, meaning UK homeowners do not pay VAT on the emptying service itself

For many rural properties across Sussex, a septic tank plays a crucial role in managing household wastewater. However, like any other part of a home’s infrastructure, septic tanks require regular maintenance to remain effective. Failing to maintain a tank properly can lead to blockages, drainage issues, environmental damage, and expensive repairs.

Septic tank repairs involving blockages, clogging, and damaged pipes can cost between £100 and £800; meanwhile, cracks, leaks, and baffle or dip pipe replacements can cost anywhere from £200 to £2,000. In more extreme cases where the septic tank is beyond repair, a full tank replacement can reach an eye-watering £20,000.

The Drain Guys are helping homeowners across Sussex stay ahead of potential problems with professional domestic septic tank emptying services. Their experienced team provides scheduled emptying for septic tanks and sewage treatment plants, ensuring waste is removed safely and disposed of responsibly, in line with the relevant regulations.

Warning signs that your septic tank needs attention

Image: Warning signs that can indicate septic tank problems. Source: The Drain Guys.

A spokesperson for The Drain Guys said: “Many homeowners only think about their septic tank when something goes wrong, but regular maintenance is one of the simplest ways to prevent disruption and unexpected costs. A neglected septic tank can result in unpleasant smells, slow drainage, sewage backups, and damage requiring significant repairs. We recommend that homeowners arrange regular emptying services rather than waiting until warning signs appear.”

“By arranging routine emptying, homeowners can keep their systems working efficiently, protect the surrounding environment, and avoid the stress of dealing with an emergency. We work with domestic customers across Sussex to provide reliable septic tank emptying services tailored to their needs, and the fact that this service is zero-rated for VAT is an additional financial benefit for Sussex homeowners.”

With many properties in rural Sussex relying on private drainage systems, proactive septic tank care can help homeowners to save thousands in repair bills whilst supporting responsible wastewater management.

Find out more about The Drain Guys by visiting their website here.

Starring TV personality, actor and Steps star Faye Tozer, alongside Emily Lane as Cady (Frozen, Starter for Ten) and Vivian Panka as Regina (Dear Evan Hansen, Heathers).
Meet The Plastics – Regina, Gretchen and Karen. They rule North Shore High and will burn anyone who gets in their way. Home-schooled Cady Heron may think she knows a thing or two about survival of the fittest thanks to her zoologist parents, but high school is a whole new level of savage. When Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a queen bee without getting stung.

Expect iconic characters, razor-sharp wit, and killer songs. Grab your friends, this is going to be fetch!

Tickets are available to buy online atwww.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth

The South are an impressive 9-piece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player and now vocalist, Gaz Birtles.

Since the demise of The Beautiful South in 2007, this exciting live band have spent 16 years touring the theatres and festivals of the UK up and down the country, bringing back the full sound and arrangements of these treasured songs – A Little Time (the number one single), Perfect 10, Don’t Marry Her plus many more singles and album tracks as well as a few choice South originals. These songs span an impressive 18-year career starting way back in 1989!

The South are: Alison Wheeler (Vocals), Gaz Birtles (Vocals), Phil Barton (Guitars), Steve Nutter (Bass), Dave Anderson (Drums), Karl Brown (Percussion), Gareth John (Trumpet/Vocals), Su Robinson (Sax) and Andy Price (Keyboards).

Let’s Carry On… Regardless! Tour tickets available to buy online at thesouth.co.uk/tour-dates

Set in 1930s New York, Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck changes when she’s chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family…

With its Tony® award-winning book and score, including the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

With The Daily Telegraph calling the production ‘Lavish Escapism’ and Radio Times calling the show ‘Feel good escapist joy, fun riotous and heartfelt’.
Tickets for all performances can be bought online now at hawth.co.uk

The Autumn Show & Horse Trials brings countryside pursuits and equestrian excitement to life. Watch elite riders compete in the South of England International Horse Trials with dressage, showjumping and cross-country.

Visitors can enjoy varying displays in the countryside ring, from angling to birds of prey, and try their hand at rural activities such as bushcraft and fly-casting, while children can enjoy meeting the farm animals, sheep shearing demonstrations, and marvelling at the steam engines.

Canine companions are welcome to participate in terrier racing and scurries, and the chance to meet rare breed gundogs. Offering mouthwatering food and drink stalls and unique shopping opportunities, this autumnal event is a must-visit for all ages.

Tickets are available from www.seas.org.uk and cost £14.40 for adults and £12.60 for senior citizens/students (inclusive of a 10% advance discount until 18.9.26). Children under 16 go free (suggested donation of £2 for children).

COMPETITION T&Cs

Tickets are valid for the Autumn Show & Horse Trials at the South of England Showground on Saturday 26^th September 2026 (1-day pass only). 1 family ticket per winner only (2 adults and 2 children under 16) and at least 1 adult must be present – while children under 16 years old are permitted free access to the show (suggested donation of £2 for children), they are still required to hold a ticket for capacity purposes. No purchase necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable. The closing date for entries is 17 September, entries received after this date will not be counted. Winners will be sent their show tickets via email only and must print a copy of the tickets or download them to their smartphone in advance to show to staff upon entry at the show gate. Any travel and accommodation will not be included in the prize; however, parking at the event is complimentary.

The band cross over fluidly between soul, reggae, pop and punk, and from these disparate pieces they created an infectious dance rhythm. Along with their contemporaries The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness, The Beat became an overnight sensation and one of the most popular and influential bands of the British SKA movement.

By Christmas of 1979, The Beat were riding high in the UK charts with their first single, a smoking remake of the classic Smokey Robinson tune Tears of a Clown.

Over the course of the next five years The Beat toured relentlessly and released three studio albums: “I Just Can’t Stop It”, “Wh’appen”, both reaching number 3 in The UK album charts and “Special Beat Service”. The band toured the world, touring with such artists as David Bowie, The Police, REM and The Clash, to name but a few. The Beat kept scoring hits with tunes that have now become so popular that it’s hard to remember a time when they didn’t exist, such as their most streamed hit on Spotify ‘Mirror in the Bathroom’ and others like Hands Off… She’s Mine, Too Nice To Talk To, Save it for Later and serene cover of Andy William’s Can’t Get Used To Losing You. The Beat featuring Ranking Jnr continue to perform all the classic hits in their dynamic live shows. thefactorylive.co.uk/events

Atmospheric cellar bar

Before dinner, we descended into Tern’s atmospheric cellar bar, an intimate space that feels like a hidden gem beneath the restaurant. While the wine list is understandably a major draw, the standout drink for me was an alcohol-free apple and basil cold-pressed “tea”. Crisp, aromatic and wonderfully refreshing.

Tasting menu with British wine pairings

Dinner itself was Tern’s five-course tasting menu with accompanying wine pairings, a journey through quality British ingredients interpreted with imagination.

The opening snacks immediately set the tone. Onion, toast and Branston pickle celebrated familiar British flavours nodding affectionately to the British sandwich of choice. IPA and chicken skin delivered a satisfying combination of richness and crunch.

A special mention must go to the opening sparkling wine pairing: Bee Tree by Sugrue. Crafted by one of England’s most celebrated sparkling wine producers, it was an elegant and lively start to the evening, full of freshness and finesse.

The tomato, allium and sorrel course showcased the kitchen’s ability to let ingredients shine. Vibrant, fresh and beautifully balanced, it was a celebration of the height of the British growing season. The Litmus orange wine was fascinating. For anyone unfamiliar with orange wine, it can be something of a revelation, and this example brought texture, spice and gentle tannins that challenged expectations in all the right ways. Definitely a wine to revisit.

Next came monkfish with pea and bacon. It is a combination that could only really belong to Britain, evoking memories of summer gardens and seaside suppers. The monkfish was expertly cooked, firm yet delicate, while the sweetness of the peas played beautifully against the savoury bacon.

One of the evening’s highlights for me was the White Castle Vineyard’s Siegerrebe. White Castle is a family-run Welsh vineyard in Monmouthshire, producing award-winning wines that demonstrate just how far British winemaking has come.

The aromatic character of the Siegerrebe worked brilliantly with the food and served as a reminder that outstanding wine no longer needs to travel thousands of miles to reach our glasses.

The pork course with broad bean delivered the meal’s richest flavours. Comforting yet refined, it struck that elusive balance between rustic British cooking and modern fine dining technique. My favourite dish!

Dessert brought raspberry, fennel and custard together in a dish that was light, fragrant and beautifully judged. The fruit was aromatic and tangy while the sweet custard anchored everything with a sense of familiarity and comfort. It was a fitting conclusion to a menu rooted in British tradition yet delivered with contemporary flair.

A genuine vision

What makes Tern special is not simply its commitment to British sourcing, but the sincerity of the delivery. Nothing feels forced. Every course, every drink and every design detail contributes to a coherent story about British craftsmanship, agriculture and creativity.
Tern is a superb example of what can be achieved when a team commits wholeheartedly to a vision. Worthing’s dining scene has become increasingly ambitious in recent years, and Tern stands apart as a restaurant with a genuine sense of purpose. For anyone curious about the excellet quality of modern British food and wine, this is a table worth booking.

39 Warwick St, Worthing BN11 3DQ | 01903 629787 | www.ternrestaurant.co.uk

Barns Green residents urge community to pack the room as council prepared to decide fate of controversial development 

Over 500 objections have been lodged against scheme; campaigners say the village’s infrastructure – especially its overstretched sewage network — simply cannot support
Residents of Barns Green are calling on people across the Horsham district to attend a critical planning committee meeting on Tuesday 4th August at 5.30pm at Albery House, RH12 2GB, as a decision looms on an unpopular application to build 68 homes in the heart of the village.

More than 500 letters of objection have already been submitted to Horsham District Council against the application from Miller Homes, making it one of the most fiercely contested planning decisions the area has seen in years.

A special field that is worth more than housing targets
The proposed site is not a patch of unused land. It is the venue for the annual Barns Green Classic Car Meet, which raises tens of thousands of pounds for local causes including St Catherine’s Hospice, and sits directly opposite the village shop and The Queen’s Head pub — two of the community’s most important social and economic hubs. Campaigners say the loss of the field, the increased traffic on Chapel Road, and the pressure on parking around the shop and pub would do lasting damage to village life.

The scheme would also require the removal of an ancient and important hedgerow along the site’s boundary; a habitat for local wildlife and a natural barrier that reduces surface water run-off onto Chapel Road, where flooding is already a recurring problem.

Infrastructure “at breaking point”
The most serious objection concerns sewage capacity. Residents have shown that Barns Green’s wastewater treatment works is already failing, with photographic evidence submitted to the council showing raw sewage discharging from a manhole into Parsons Brook, before flowing on to the River Adur.

Concerns have intensified following news that Southern Water has approached a local landowner to assess land for a pipeline that would divert additional wastewater flows from Itchingfield to the Barns Green facility, on top of the load the new homes would generate. Miller Homes maintains that Southern Water has confirmed adequate capacity exists, most recently in April 2026, but residents say this is simply untrue, and at odds with what they are already witnessing on the ground.

National policy is clear that new development should not be permitted to proceed ahead of the infrastructure needed to support it. Campaigners say this application is a textbook case: a scheme proposed for a site the community’s own Neighbourhood Plan did not identify for development, in a village whose sewage system is already visibly struggling, with a brownfield alternative (a derelict former school site in Itchingfield) sitting unused nearby.

Our voices must be heard
Richard French, Chair of the local residents’ group opposing the application, said:  “There is overwhelming evidence that this development should be rejected. We feel that we are not being listened to and the very clear evidence we are presenting is being ignored. It’s simple, there is no capacity for the extra sewage.”

Ben Shire, landlord of The Queen’s Head, said the development would fundamentally change the character of the village: “This development will destroy the rural nature of the village. My customers will be staring into a housing estate that belongs in a town. The field opposite the pub is essential to this village, not just for the Car Meet, but for the nature of the village itself.”

A village already doing its share
Residents point out that Barns Green is not opposed to new housing in principle. The Parish’s recently adopted Neighbourhood Plan already provides for significant new housing on sites the community identified and supported, including the derelict former school site in Itchingfield. Nearby Sumners Fields, a 32-home development completed in the last few years, is cited by campaigners as a cautionary tale: homes standing unsold, “affordable” units priced beyond the reach of local people, and promised sustainable features unmet, with some properties reportedly running on diesel generators due to a lack of grid connection.

Have your say
The application will be considered by the planning committee on 4th August, and campaigners are urging as many people as possible – residents and non-residents alike – to attend the meeting in person to show the strength of feeling.
“Please take the time to come along and continue to object and make your feelings known,” said Mr French. “There will be many passionate people in the room, which we expect to be packed out, desperate to get the right decision.”

Meeting details: Date: Tuesday 4th August 2026 Time: 5.30pm Venue: Albery House, RH12 2GB

Featuring a sensational live band, My Heart Will Go On takes concertgoers on a thrilling ride through four decades of Celine Dion’s greatest songs. From timeless classics like ‘The Power of Love’ and ‘It’s All Coming Back to Me Now’ to the soulful ‘All By Myself’ and the unforgettable, greatest selling Celine Dion ballad, ‘My Heart Will Go On’, each performance captures the magic and heart of Celine’s unparalleled career.

A must-see for fans and music lovers alike, this celebration of Celine Dion’s music promises to leave you inspired, moved, and filled with the energy of her extraordinary legacy. Don’t miss your chance to experience the music that has touched hearts around the world.

Tickets available at www.thefactorylive.co.uk/event/celinedion

Guests can enjoy the woodland-themed feast of the Hunny Pot Afternoon Tea of honey-laced cakes, choux, and picnic sandwiches. From classic scones to playful “Woozle Cheese & Ham Bake,” this is a honey-sweet indulgence for all ages. Then afterwards, explore Ashdown Park’s new garden trail, the Hundred Aker Trail and meander through landscapes inspired by Pooh and friends.

One of the biggest events is an evening with Gyles Brandreth: Celebrating 100 Years of Winnie-the-Pooh on 17th October, with tickets still available to book at www.ashdownpark.com

Set within 186 acres of landscaped parkland and forest, Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club is perfectly placed for exploring the woodland that inspired Milne’s stories. Celebrating the bear’s enduring legacy – all from the comfort of one of Sussex’s most charming country hotels. www.ashdownpark.com

Terms & Condition’s

The prize includes:

• Hunny Pot Afternoon Tea for four
• The prize is subject to availability, and blackout dates may apply.
• The prize is non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and no cash alternative is available.
• Transport to and from the hotel is not included.
• Employees of Elite Hotels, their families, and any agencies or companies directly involved in creating and administrating this competition are not eligible to enter.
• The competition prize must be redeemed within 12 months of issue.
• The prize is valid only for participants aged 18 and over and is based on four adults.

Take a moment of mindfulness with this little book containing over 60 prompts and ideas to help you pause – each one designed to be completed in five minutes or less.

Finding just five minutes a day to practise mindfulness can help you engage your curiosity, develop compassion and feel calm. So try to connect with yourself and the world around you by learning how to be present in the current moment through this book about mindfulness.

Whether you are learning to meditate or following a full visualization practice, allowing yourself to create small routines in a short space of time will help you rise above everyday stressors.

A bit of mindfulness can transform your outlook towards life. So, whether you take one tip a day or many, you’re sure to learn how to reflect on different situations, be aware of your body, and understand your
emotional triggers.

Joanne Mallon is one of the UK’s most experienced life and career coaches. She’s been working with clients all around the world for 20 years. Originally from Belfast, Joanne lives with her family in Brighton and can also be found on Instagram @joannemallon.

Kicking back against the rules imposed by their stuffy elders, four spirited young lovers take off to a forest thronged with mischievous creatures who march to a different beat.
But the king and queen of the fairies are at loggerheads, and psychedelic potions create startling transformations. For a bunch of budding actors, staging a play proves more of a headache than they bargained for. As traditional values go head to head with pleasure and freedom, amidst a whirl of conflicting desires, how will this madcap night of revels end?

Justin Audibert, Artistic Director of CFT, follows his hugely popular productions of Redlands and Hamlet, co-directed with Hannah Joss, and starring comedian and satirist Munya Chawawa as Bottom.
Visit www.cft.org.uk for details.

Set in the stunning South Downs countryside, Plumpton’s most stylish raceday promises thrilling jump racing, live entertainment, fashion and family fun, all wrapped up in the unique atmosphere of one of Britain’s most intimate and picturesque racecourses.

Racegoers can enjoy top-class action on the track alongside live music, a lively after party with Mint DJs, and plenty of opportunities to dress to impress in the popular Best Dressed competitions for ladies, gents and children. Fantastic prizes are up for grabs, including a £500 Holland Cooper voucher.

Away from the racing, there’s entertainment for all ages. Racegoers in previous years have enjoyed a rodeo bull, sweeper arm and garden games, for example, and there’s more in store this year! There’s also a wide variety food and drink available, plus hospitality packages for those wanting to make the day extra special.

Under 18s go free when accompanied by a paying adult. For information and tickets, visit www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk

Made up of Quinn Humphreys and Fraser Blanchflower, Sweet Loretta have spent the
past two years building a loyal following with their distinctive blend of timeless
songwriting and modern production. Inspired by the golden era of 1970s and 1980s pop,
soul and funk, the duo have crafted a sound that pays homage to their influences while
remaining unmistakably their own.

Their music has already amassed more than 155,000 Spotify streams, received regular
airplay on BBC Radio Surrey & Sussex, and taken them across Europe and the United
States supporting acclaimed artist Kishi Bashi.

Released on Friday 24th July, You Had To Be There marks the band’s biggest milestone
to date. The album showcases the warmth, melody and musicianship that have
become hallmarks of Sweet Loretta’s sound, bringing together songs shaped by two
years of writing, recording and performing. The album will be available to stream on all
major digital platforms from its release day.

The following evening, on Saturday 25th July, fans will have the opportunity to hear the
album performed live for the very first time during an intimate launch show at
ALPHABET in Brighton. Alongside songs from the new record, the duo will also perform a
selection of fan favourites.

Lead vocalist, Quinn Humphreys, shared: “We’re incredibly excited to finally share these
songs and celebrate with everyone who’s supported us along the way. We can’t think of
a better place to launch the record than Brighton, a city that has played such a huge part
in our lives.”

Listeners can hear Sweet Loretta’s music now on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/8lucD

Tickets to their album launch show are available via Eventbrite:
https://shorturl.at/3kKXA

To keep up with the latest news, behind-the-scenes content and future live dates, follow
Sweet Loretta on Facebook (OfficialSweetLoretta), Instagram and TikTok
(@sweetlorettaband)

Bushy Wood, a 17-acre woodland site used by Scouts, Guides and other youth groups, had been battling deteriorating access for years. Temporary hardcore and road planings repeatedly washed away, leaving the car park uneven and difficult to navigate, particularly for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. This spring, Roadways rebuilt and reinforced the car park using Trackform, a cement-bound recycled aggregate the company produces at its own local Hailsham depot. The material is designed for long-term durability without ongoing maintenance.

Mark, Centre Manager at Bushy Wood thanked Roadways for its support: “Our sincere thanks go to Roadways for their outstanding expertise in surfacing our car park. Thanks to their excellent work, our guests can now park safely and enjoy our facilities with peace of mind.”

The highways company also donated four Brighton & Hove Albion hospitality tickets as a raffle prize to support the centre’s fundraising for a 2027 international trip to the Kandersteg Scout Centre in Switzerland. The raffle raised £1,436.

Other community projects

The Bushy Wood project is one of many carried out in the community by Roadways each month. At the Heathfield Agricultural Show, the company installed Trackform at the cattle wash area. “We are always so grateful to local businesses who continue to assist us with ‘in kind’ sponsorship,” said Tracey Hobden, Show Coordinator.

At the BIG Futures Show in Eastbourne – East Sussex’s largest careers event for students with special education needs and disabilities – Roadways ran interactive stands letting attendees handle recycled aggregate samples, explore road construction techniques, and use CAD software to connect gaming skills with construction careers.

The company also provided traffic management for the Hailsham Community Run, delivered career days at Hailsham Community College, and made donations to food banks, veterans’ causes and homeless support charities.

How to apply for assistance

Roadways selects projects where its equipment, materials and expertise can make a direct practical difference. Priority is given to work relating to education, STEM and disadvantaged groups. Community organisations interested in support can get in touch via the company’s website here.

This World Snake Day (16 July), the RSPCA is shining a spotlight on snakes in its care who are searching for loving homes, while reminding would-be owners that these fascinating reptiles require experienced, knowledgeable carers.It comes as the charity reveals it received more than four reports per day about snake welfare in 2025 – the highest number in at least five years.

Reptile rescue – From corn snakes and royal pythons, to boa constrictors and Taiwanese beauty snakes, a number of snakes are currently being cared for at RSPCA Brighton Reptile Rescue, while they wait for their forever homes.The charity says that these remarkable reptiles need knowledgeable owners who are committed to understanding and meeting their specific welfare needs – but that for those in a position to adopt, “rescue is always best”. Snakes require carefully controlled environments, including specialist heating and lighting, appropriate diets and spacious enclosures that allow them to carry out natural behaviours. Many species of snakes can live for 20 years or more, making them a significant long-term commitment.

The appeal comes after new RSPCA figures revealed the charity received 1,485 reports involving snakes in 2025 – the highest annual total recorded in any of the last five years. Many of the snakes that come into the charity’s care have been abandoned or signed over to the charity after owners underestimated the specialist care they need. The charity’s appeal also comes as its Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign highlights the increased pressure on the charity’s frontline teams during the warmer months, when reports of animal cruelty typically peak and more vulnerable animals come into the charity’s care.

Provide a home – Now, the RSPCA is encouraging anyone considering adopting a snake or other reptile to carefully research their needs and ensure they can provide the right environment for them before taking one on. Evie Button, RSPCA Senior Scientific Officer, said: “Exotic pets such as snakes often end up in the RSPCA’s care after people realise they’re not easy to care for, or the novelty wears off. “Pet snakes are completely dependent on their owners to provide the right accommodation, heating, lighting and diet, all of which needs to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible to keep them healthy and allow them to express their natural behaviours. “We’d urge anyone thinking about getting a snake to thoroughly research the needs of the particular species they are interested in, because the conditions in their enclosure needs to mimic the conditions of their natural habitat. “But for those who are able to provide specialist and appropriate care for a snake throughout their life, these reptiles can make fascinating and rewarding companions.”

Jenny Eden, Branch Manager at RSPCA Brighton, said: “Every one of these snakes has their own personality and we’d love to see them in loving forever homes with people who understand exactly what they need.“We spend time getting to know each snake and helping potential adopters understand the specialist care they’ll require, so they can go on to enjoy happy, healthy lives in their new homes”.

Ratsnake Ratt -Ratsnake Rattata has been waiting more than 800 days for a home, but staff say he still has the curiosity and energy of a much younger snake. He is hoping to finally find a forever home where he can settle in and thrive.ata

Jack the Python – Jack, a python, has been with the centre for more than18 months and staff say he is a calm, easy-to-handle snake who loves his food. They hope this laid-back snake will soon find his perfect match.

Maybeline the taiwanese beauty snake – Taiwanese beauty snake Maybeline has been waiting over 200 days for a home of her own. She is looking for a spacious enclosure of at least 6ft x 2ft x 2ft – although, the bigger the better!

Anyone interested in adopting a snake or reptile from the RSPCA can visit the charity’s Find a Pet page to find out more about pets currently looking for homes. Advice on caring for snakes and other reptiles can be found on the RSPCA website.

Worthing Borough Council has launched an expressions of interest process for a site within the park, seeking proposals that could build on its ongoing revitalisation while supporting nature, leisure and wellbeing.

Following feedback from the community, the size of the site being offered has been reduced. Located to the south-west of the park, it offers the potential for a range of imaginative uses that could strengthen Brooklands Park as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors.

In recent years, the park has undergone a significant transformation through a multimillion-pound investment programme focused on restoring the landscape, improving accessibility and enhancing biodiversity. This has included the opening of Brooklands Café, which has quickly become a popular community hub overlooking the revitalised lake.

Any proposals received will be assessed on their potential long-term benefits to the community, their environmental impact and how well they complement the park’s character and setting. Opening the site to expressions of interest does not commit the council to progressing any proposal, but it does open the opportunity for organisations to deliver a non-residential offer that will be appealing for residents and visitors.

The opportunity follows engagement with local stakeholders, businesses and organisations, who encouraged the council to open up suitable sites for external investment and fresh ideas to benefit the town. The council will also be inviting expressions of interest for the West Buildings Shelter site on Worthing promenade later this month.

Importantly, this opportunity aims to attract organisations to invest in, and provide, new activities that could broaden and diversify the town’s leisure offer, while ensuring any future proposals reflect local priorities.

Councillor Caroline Baxter, the leader of Worthing Borough Council, said: “Brooklands Park is one of Worthing’s most loved green spaces, and I’m excited to see what ideas organisations bring forward to make it even better for residents and visitors.

“We’ve listened to the community and reduced the size of the site we’re making available. This is a chance to explore new ideas that could enhance the park while respecting everything people already love about it.

“This is about seeing what’s possible. No decisions have been made and any future decisions will depend on the quality of the proposals we receive.”

The first round for expression of interest is now open, with submissions invited until 5pm on Sunday 16th August 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to develop their proposals in greater detail during the second stage of the process.

A preferred proposal may be identified later this year, subject to the outcome of the process and any subsequent decisions. Any final scheme will be subject to full planning approval.

To find out more and apply, visit: https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/estates/properties-and-land-available-to-buy-or-let/

Her Majesty has strong links to both the college and the local area and is Patron of the Plumpton College Charitable Foundation and WineGB.

Continued contribution to English & Welsh wine

The Queen was welcomed to Plumpton College by Principal & CEO, Jeremy Kerswell, and Chair of Governors, Julie Dougill, before walking through the college’s 800-hectare estate and campus, meeting staff and students. During the visit, Her Majesty toured the Animal Education Centre with students, including the new lemur enclosure, before visiting the Veterinary Studies Centre. Opened in 2023, the centre includes commercial training facilities such as a canine hydrotherapy pool, giving students experience in a real working environment.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity to update Her Majesty on the college’s continued contribution to the English and Welsh wine sector during its centenary year. The Queen met viticulture degree students at the AgriFood centre to hear about the recently planted industry leading Digital Centenary Vineyard. Plumpton College was proud to receive a national honour, the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, from Her Majesty in 2023 in recognition of its impact on the sector. Her Majesty also met apprentices from the recently launched School of Bakery, providing the next generation of bakers into production and commercial bakery settings.

100 years at the South Downs campus

Her Majesty concluded the visit by unveiling a plaque outside the AgriFood Centre to commemorate 100 years of land and environment education at the South Downs campus.

Jeremy Kerswell, Principal of Plumpton College, said: “It’s a huge honour to welcome Her Majesty to Plumpton College during this special year for the college. It was a privilege to share our centenary celebrations, showcase the £40m investment we have made in our campus over the past decade for sector leading technical resources, and give students the opportunity to speak directly about their learning and ambitions. Plumpton College continues to grow as more students choose to study with us and prepare for careers in the land and environment sector, where new entrants are in demand more than ever before. We are especially grateful for Her Majesty’s support for the Plumpton College Charitable Foundation, which helps ensure that more students can access education and training in these vital industries.

Our purpose remains as strong today as it was 100 years ago: to support the future of food, our land and the environment, and to equip students with the skills they need for a changing world.”

Caring for green spaces

Horsham Park is a fantastic testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of the people who care for this green space, ensuring it is maintained to a high standard for all to enjoy.

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture Cllr Tony Frankland said: “We are extremely happy and proud to have been recognised through this prestigious award.  Horsham Park is a jewel in the crown for Horsham District. It is enjoyed by so many people of all ages, all year-round for sports, community and play activities. It is a favourite meeting point for friends and family where they can all enjoy being in a natural green space that is so good for people’s wellbeing. My thanks go out to our officers, the Friends of Horsham Park and our many volunteers, partners and contractors for all the hard work they put in planning, developing and maintaining the park to achieve these standards. Congratulations to all involved.”

Improving experiences

The award comes in a year which saw the Council successfully complete several key projects to further improve experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities.

These include:

• Protection of the veteran Oak tree with the installation of fencing and a new path around it
• Re-routing of the path from the pond to Collyer’s College creating a more open route
• Installed new sensory play equipment and planting in the children’s play area
• Re-vitalised the surfacing in Park House Gardens improving accessibility for users of wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. Additionally, the pillars originally from St Mary’s Churchyard have been topped to match the new paths, providing additional seating in the area.

“A great community space”

Chair of The Friends of Horsham Park Sally Sanderson added: “We are thrilled that Horsham Park has once again received the Green Flag. It recognises the huge effort put into making Horsham Park such a great community space.  Last year the Friends contributed over 2500   hours of gardening, conservation and litter picking.  The enthusiasm of our volunteers is a key ingredient in making the partnership with the Parks and Countryside team so effective. There are many other volunteers also showing their love for the park.  This year the award is particularly sweet as the Park now has Fields In Trust status meaning it is protected for recreation in perpetuity.”

About the Green Flag Award scheme

The Green Flag Award Scheme (http://greenflagaward.org/) is run by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, under contract from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, in partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful, Keep Wales Tidy and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

The project

Gateway to the Sea is a new sea swimming initiative taking place on Saturday 27 June in Brighton, designed to help blind and partially sighted people build confidence in open water through supported coaching, guided swims and shared learning. Led by the University of Brighton in partnership with British Blind Sport – the UK’s national disability sport organisation for blind and partially sighted people – and open water swimming specialists SwimTrek, the initiative is also supported by Melanie Barratt – a double Paralympic champion, six-time World Champion, World Triathlon Champion and the first blind woman to swim the English Channel.

Using Sea Lanes Brighton as a base, participants will spend time both in the centre’s facilities and in the sea itself, supported by SwimTrek’s coaches and swim guides and experienced open water swimmers.  The initiative builds directly on University of Brighton research led by PhD researcher Sadie Rockliffe, which examines the opportunities and barriers blind and partially sighted people encounter when accessing blue spaces such as seas, rivers and lakes. Organisers hope Gateway to the Sea will provide a model that can be developed in other locations around the UK, creating lasting opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to access blue spaces safely, confidently and enjoyably. While open water swimming continues to grow in popularity across the UK, many people with sight loss face significant barriers to participation.

The initiative has been designed to address these challenges through a fully supported day of coaching, guided swimming and shared learning, helping participants experience the sea in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.

The programme includes pool-based coaching, a guided sea swim supported by qualified coaches and one-to-one swim guides, opportunities for discussion and reflection, and a talk from Melanie Barratt about her own journey in swimming and open water.

Melanie Barratt said: “I have always loved the feeling of freedom being in the water gives me and have always loved to swim.  After I retired from competitive swimming I always swam for relaxation and the joy it brings.  I remember longing to swim in open water, and to swim from place to place, even country to country – but I thought it would be impossible.  

 “However, the open water swimming community is incredibly welcoming and inclusive and I was supported and helped into the water – and I was hooked! The feeling of literally being immersed in nature; the sounds, smells, colours and sensations were just like nothing else.  I fell in love with the personal challenge it gave me and one thing led to another… 

 “Being blind or visually impaired can be so incredibly isolating, sometimes it’s difficult just leaving the house.  But since joining a local open water swimming group I have made some incredible friends and developed a confidence in what I can do that has spilled over into all areas of my life.  I know how hard it was to take those first initial steps into the water, so I am so excited to be able to offer this opportunity to others!”

By creating opportunities for people with sight loss to access the sea safely and confidently, the project aims to contribute to a wider conversation about inclusion, wellbeing and who gets to enjoy the benefits of the natural environment.

Insurance Underwriter, George, 28, is taking on the challenge in memory of his dad, Mike, who died in January 2022, aged 59. Mike was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in April 2020. He had treatment for almost two years and tackled his cancer head on, maintaining positivity, optimism and humour throughout.

His selfless attitude towards life and others has inspired George to complete an extraordinary fundraising challenge to keep his legacy alive. George says: “In the final stages of my dad’s illness and after trying a variety of harsh treatments, he wanted to take part in a clinical trial. He knew there was little chance it would improve his own prognosis but instead could help clinicians gain greater understanding into bowel cancer and the specific mutations present during his illness. Unfortunately, he was too ill to participate in it, but his attitude towards furthering research and the belief that this could improve the outlook for many bowel cancer patients is what has driven me to support The Institute of Cancer Research.”

George’s Goal

George is no stranger to a challenge. In June 2022, he raised more than £18,000 to support the ICR’s research when he, along with three others, cycled from London to Paris in memory of his dad. He’s now preparing to get back on his bike to raise even more. This time, from 5 to 10 July, he will be cycling from Berlin to London, through Germany and across the Netherlands, then travelling by ferry to the UK before finishing his journey outside the ICR’s labs in Chelsea. Passing through rural countryside, small towns and villages, he plans to travel about 100 miles a day.

George has recruited 26 adventurers to join him on his expedition, including many of his colleagues from the insurance industry to honour Mike’s 40-year career in this sector. George’s cousin Ben, who lost his mother to breast cancer in 2023, will also be taking part in the cycle ride. The family knows only too well the devastation caused by cancer. George’s grandfather died in 2018 after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and his uncle died aged 47 from osteosarcoma.

Many of those taking part in George’s ride are not experienced cyclists – just people who are prepared to take on some significant training. His intention is to bring together cyclists and non-cyclists in an exciting but difficult challenge, creating a chance for those who have been affected by cancer in some way to come together and make a positive difference.

As he pedals the route, there is no doubt that his dad will be at the forefront of George’s mind, inspiring him to keep going and pushing forward to the finish line.

“When my dad was diagnosed with cancer, the outlook was devastating from the start – he was told he had only weeks to live. Nevertheless, through treatment, along with determination and undoubtedly some luck, he went on to live for almost two more years. In hindsight, this alone is testament to the man he was, and his ability to withstand an overwhelmingly difficult situation, all while continuing to remain his positive, warm and loving self, optimistic that he would beat the cancer. Despite knowing he had an incurable diagnosis, his death at just 59 was a major shock, and it is still very difficult to come to terms with.

George hopes to raise over £100,000 to support the ICR’s pioneering work. The charity’s current fundraising appeal focuses on driving forward new research to make bowel cancer more preventable, predictable and treatable: Help give everyone with bowel cancer the hope of a cure

To support George and raise funds for the ICR’s vital research, visit: George’s fundraising page

‘Enjoy the Silence’ UK have established themselves a formidable live reputation, even supporting the legendary HEAVEN 17 and entertaining venues up and down the country.

The show replicates the classic-era DEPECHE MODE live experience, delivering sets which are singles-heavy as well as more diverse, including album tracks/rarities. The band has a strong visual appeal with live percussion, retro-style reel-to-reel tape recorder, guitar and three part vocals. The band line-up comprises Nic Price, Russ Harvey, Paul Boddy and Andy Jones.
Reach out and touch faith this Summer at The Factory Live!

Tickets for this performance and others can be found online by visiting – thefactorylive.co.uk

Changes through the years

Local displays & national magazine recognition

Demonstrations & all welcome