Horsham Living Aug

YOUR FREE COPY

AUG/SEP 2026

Horsham

FEATURING HAYWARDS HEATH,

living

BILLINGSHURST AND CRAWLEY

THE LATE

SUMMER

TABLE

SEASONAL PRODUCE,

SIMPLY PREPARED

AUTUMN

H OM E

UPGRADES

WINTER-PROOF

YOUR HOME

THE GOOD LIFE

SUSSEX STYLE

GOLF, WINE, DINING AND COUNTRYSIDE

VIEWS AT MANNINGS HEATH

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

18 22

AUTUMN JACK

C O N T E N T S

INTERIOR SEASONAL UPDATES EATS

Editor Katie Thomson

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk

Assistant Editor Kate Norris

Publisher Sally Thomson

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose

Contributors

Angela Cave, Louise Thomson,

Pete Lawrence

STEIN HOME INTERVIEW IMPROVEMENTS & RECIPE

22 18

FOR ADVERTISING

Account Manager Laura Rodney

e laura@minervapublications.co.uk

t 01225 984501

Front Cover courtesy of Mannings Heath

13 04

SCHOOL COMPETITIONS

GUIDE

27

PLANTS GARDENING FOR TIPS

POLLINATORS26

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,

Hilperton BA14 6JB

t 01225 984 550

www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Printed on sustainably sourced paper.

Please recycle this copy or pass it along

when you are finished for someone else

to enjoy.

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be

held liable for any loss occasioned by

failure of an advertisement to appear, or

any damage or inconvenience caused by

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of

this publication may be reproduced without

prior permission from the publishers.

The opinions expressed within are not

necessarily those of the publishers.

A NOTE

NOTE

from the editor

from the editor

This edition arrives as summer

begins to soften into early autumn

— a time for making the most of

warm days, enjoying local events

I had my first English

and gently turning our thoughts

strawberry this week, and my

to the season ahead. Inside, you’ll

word, it was beyond delicious

find ideas for late-summer days

- perfectly sweet, it was a

out,

very

food

good

and

advert

drink inspiration,

for eating

home

seasonally.

updates,

I’ve

garden

tried to

advice

echo

and

this

features

in all my

to help

recent

you ease

fruit and

into

September vegetable feeling purchases, inspired. and it’s

had a transformative effect on

Before

my cooking

that, however,

- everything

we want

just

to

pay tribute to someone who has

been

tastes

a much-valued

better - more

part

vibrant,

of our

magazines needing for less almost seasoning a decade. and

just overall very tasty.

We were deeply saddened to

hear I’m of making the death the of our most garden of

expert, cooking Matthew whilst I Biggs still have VMH, a

who kitchen passed - mine away is in May due at to the be

age ripped of 65. out For in two many weeks readers, and

Matthew’s

it will be camping

gardening

stove

column

and

was a familiar and trusted

air frying for two months from

feature, offering practical advice,

seasonal

there! I’ve

wisdom

already picked

and

my

an

infectious kitchen, enthusiasm but it got me for thinking plants.

about all the other areas that

Best need known updating for his in appearances

my home. If

on you are Gardeners’ thinking of a Question similar

Time, refresh, Matthew please check combined out our

vast home horticultural pages this knowledge edition -

with they’re warmth full of and inspiring humour. trends A

professional gardener for more

and a few timeless classics.

than 25 years, he studied at

Pershore College of Agriculture

and We’ve the Royal also got Botanic some Gardens, lovely

Kew, editorial before on going the best on to plants write

many for pollinators books and - become it’s never one

of been Britain’s so important most to respected support

gardening wildlife in voices. the garden.

Recently The competition awarded the guide Victoria this

Medal

issue is

of

a bumper

Honour,

one

one

- we

of

horticulture’s highest accolades,

have an outdoor furniture

Matthew was also admired for his

determination set from Bramblecrest during his worth battle

with nearly bowel £3,000, cancer, plus a including cordless

his lawnmower work helping worth to £679 create to get a

therapeutic that garden garden in shape. at Mount This,

Vernon plus a Hospital. lot more makes it well

worth a look and an enter!

We are enormously grateful

for

We

Matthew’s

will be back

contribution

again

to

in

this magazine. His columns

August - I’ll be fully rebooted

encouraged readers to embrace

the

and

seasons

recharged

and appreciate

into summer

the

natural mode. world. See you He then! will be greatly

missed, and our thoughts are

with his family, friends Katie and the

many gardeners he inspired.

Katie

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Late Summer made of

Sparkling Moments

Discover Leonardslee Family Vineyards through estate-grown

sparkling wine, vineyard tours, guided tastings, seasonal dining

and countryside stays in the heart of Sussex.

ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE

HOTEL | RESTAURANT

EXPERIENCES

Step into Leonardslee Family Vineyards and discover the story behind our award-winning

English sparkling wines.

From relaxed sparkling wine flights to tutored tastings and guided vineyard tours by

buggy, each experience offers a closer look at our wines, our estate and the craft behind

every bottle.

English Sparkling Wine Tutored Tasting

Enjoy a guided tasting of the Leonardslee

Sparkling Wine Collection, including Blanc

de Blancs, Brut Rosé and Brut Reserve.

Led by our wine specialists, this 45-minute

experience is perfect for discovering the

character, elegance and craftsmanship of

our Sussex sparkling wines.

Vineyard Tour & Tutored Tasting

Explore the vineyards in comfort with a

guided buggy tour through the rolling estate.

Discover more about our growing, harvesting

and winemaking before enjoying a tutored

tasting of our sparkling wines.

Sussex Sparkling Wine Flight

For a more relaxed visit, enjoy a self-guided

sparkling wine flight in our tasting lounge.

No booking required, simply arrive, sip and

savour at your own pace.

Wine, dine & stay

Make more of your visit with seasonal dining at

The Vineyard Kitchen or extend your experience

with a stay at The Vineyard Hotel, overlooking

the championship Waterfall golf course and the

South Downs.

Book your wine

experience today

Hammerpond Road, Mannings Heath, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PG

info@leonardslee.co.uk | www.leonardslee.co.uk

Reset for September

As summer gently fades, September offers

the perfect opportunity to pause, reset

and step into a new season feeling your

very best...

September often carries the feeling of a second new year. After

the looseness of summer — late nights, holidays, barbecues,

disrupted routines and perhaps a few postponed appointments

— the return to structure can feel like an opportunity to reset. It

is a natural moment to take stock, make fresh plans and invest a

little time in feeling better.

For many, that starts with health. The change of season is a

useful prompt to book the check-ups that have slipped down

the list, whether that is a dental appointment, eye test, physio

session or overdue health review. Small, practical steps can make

a real difference, helping to catch niggles early and giving peace

of mind as the busier autumn months begin.

It is also an ideal time to refresh fitness and wellbeing routines.

Cooler days can make exercise feel more appealing, whether

that means returning to the gym, trying a new class, booking

personal training sessions or simply committing to regular walks.

September can be far more motivating than January: the days are

still light, the weather is gentler, and there is time to build healthy

habits before winter sets in.

Beauty and skincare routines often benefit from a seasonal

rethink too. After months of sun, travel and outdoor living,

skin may need extra hydration, repair or professional advice.

Treatments such as facials, skin consultations, massage, hair

appointments or non-invasive aesthetic treatments can all help

restore confidence and create a sense of renewal.

Above all, a September reset does not need to be dramatic.

It is about making considered choices that support everyday

wellbeing — booking the appointment, restarting the routine,

treating tired skin, prioritising rest and carving out time to

feel like yourself again. As autumn approaches, this is the

perfect moment to begin the new season with renewed energy,

confidence and care.

Losing your strength,

fitness and energy?

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SECURE YOUR PLACE

CLAIM

£100

CREDIT

6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

Puzzle Time

Word Search

Would you like to advertise in this space?

Get in touch to find out more: 01225 984550 or

email studio@minervapublications.co.uk.

T E B I H A G G L I C P G V U

B A I A T T Z B E B R Q R T M

O I S C R O O U D E F V I B Q

J Z W H I B N N K A L O L U W

Z M E A B Q E G P Y A M L K S

F U E R S V J C S V M G I X S

J S T C A M K I U E E T N R H

L T C O L H K E V E F R G D A

I A O A A F T Z B L X Q P S L

J R R L D L M P K A G W X X L

U D N G Q Z Q H W I B F M N O

C A H A M B U R G E R S F E U

Y C U P H O T D O G Y R I S M

G U M N C U C G P J Q V A E I

N R K L Q K E T C H U P F S L

HAMBURGER

BARBECUE

KETCHUP

TONGS

SALAD

SWEETCORN

GRILLING

SUMMERTIME

WORDSEARCH

HOT DOG

MUSTARD

CHARCOAL

HALLOUMI

KEBABS

FLAME

BUN

WORD WHEEL

Hamburger Sweetcorn Charcoal Bun

Barbecue Grilling Halloumi

This Summer themed word wheel is made from a 9

Ketchup letter Summer Hot themed Dogword. Try and find Kebabs that word,

Tongs

then make as many words of any length as you can

from these letters. Mustard You can only use each Flame letter once,

Salad

and each word must include the letter S.

®

Sudoku



Sudoku

SUDOKU

9 6 4 2 8

7 8 6 5

3 1 5

5 8

4 9 1 7 3

4 9

3 5 9

8 9 4

9 6 8

9 6 5 4 7 2 3 1 8

4 7 8 9 1 3 6 2 5

2 3 1 5 6 8 9 4 7

7 1 3 6 9 5 4 8 2

6 4 9 2 8 1 7 5 3

8 5 2 7 3 4 1 9 6

1 2 4 3 5 6 8 7 9

3 8 7 1 2 9 5 6 4

5 9 6 8 4 7 2 3 1

®



SOLUTIONS

Sunday 20th September

Heavy Horses will be working on the

Wildflower Meadow

The garden is open every day from 1pm to 5pm,

closed on Wednesdays.

www.highbeeches.com

Purchase direct

from the UK’s

finest contemporary

craftmakers and artists

Book In

Advance &

Save up to £8.70*

on adult tickets using

Discount Code CRAFT2026

10 – 13 September

Hever

Castle

& Gardens TN8 7NG

Demonstrations

Food Village • Live Music

*See website for full details / admission costs

Craft Fair entry included in admission

RHS Members free (weekdays only)

9.30am – 5.30pm Thurs – Sat

9.30am – 4.30pm Sun

(Garden open until 6pm daily)


CIF_Hever_Sept26_110x153_v1.indd 1 30/06/2026 11:49

HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM

A SCHOOL OPEN DAY

As the new school year approaches, Emily Roberts from the

Independent Schools Council shares her tips for making the

most of school open days...

Every parent wants to give their child

the best start in life, and this naturally

includes choosing a school that best

suits their child’s needs. For many this

can be a daunting task, and it can be

hard to know where to start.

An independent education remains a

popular choice for families, with lots

of different schools to choose from

including day and boarding, single-sex

and co-educational, and schools with

specialisms such as in the arts or sport.

Open days give families the opportunity

to see first-hand whether a particular

school is the right fit. Some schools also

run virtual open days, making it possible

for families to explore what a school has

to offer from the comfort of their own

home.

There are many different aspects to

consider when attending an open day,

so to help ease the process, here are

some top tips for parents considering an

independent school for their child:

Narrow down your choices

If you live in an area with a number of

good schools nearby, create a shortlist

and take time to plan your school

visits. The ‘Find a School’ tool on the

ISC website is particularly useful, as it

enables you to refine your search by

distance, residency type, age range, fee

assistance options and more! If you are

considering a school which is further

afield, it’s worth making a day of it so you

and your child can get a feel for the area.

Think about the school’s specialism

or focus

All independent schools are different,

offering unique specialisms and

strengths. Ask yourself what type of

school would best suit your child – are

they sporty, academic or creative? If

you have an academic child you might

like to consider a selective school,

whereas if your child is very creative,

you might prefer a school with excellent

arts provision and facilities. The most

important thing is to speak to your child

about what type of school they can

imagine themselves in.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Teachers expect parents to be inquisitive

and are well prepared to answer

questions, so ask teachers everything you

want to know; it’s always best to speak

up if you have any queries or concerns!

Important areas that you might ask about

include class sizes, the subjects on offer,

methods of assessment, extracurricular

activities and pastoral support.

It would also be worthwhile learning more

about how the school communicates with

parents; it’s important that you feel wellinformed

and able to discuss any matters

pertaining to your child’s progress or

wellbeing. If you are considering a

boarding school for your child, take the

opportunity to find out more about the

on-site accommodation, flexi-boarding

options and what activities take place

over the weekends.

Chat to pupils as well as staff and ask

them about their experiences at the

school. Much can be learned from

observing their behaviour – do they seem

happy, confident and at ease in their

environment, are they engaged with their

lessons and wider activities?

Make a follow-up appointment

An open day allows you to build an

impression of what type of school is on

offer. So, if you are happy with what you

see, book a follow-up appointment with

the school. This will enable you to speak

more personally with the headteacher or

registrar and provide another opportunity

to ask any further questions or raise

concerns you might have.

The independent sector is diverse, with a

huge array of schools and approaches to

education on offer. Make the most of your

open days, and use the experience to

guide you as you choose the right school

for your child.


CONTACT

US HERE

Where Potential is Discovered

and Futures Are Shaped

OPEN DAY: SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER

Continuous Education from Reception to Year 13

A Community Where Every Child Belongs

Inclusive Excellence That Inspires Children to Believe

Opportunities That Empower Children to Become

01747 812122 | clayesmore.com | Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum, DT11 8LL

BOARDING

WITHIN REACH

For many families, boarding

school can feel like a distant

option - something associated

with long journeys, faraway

campuses and a significant

step away from home. But for

parents across the region, some

of the country’s most impressive

boarding opportunities may be

much closer than they realise.

From full and weekly boarding

to flexible options that support

busy family life, today’s boarding

schools offer far more than

academic ambition alone. With

outstanding facilities, strong

pastoral care and rich evening

and weekend programmes, they

give pupils space to grow in

confidence and independence,

while still keeping family life firmly

within reach. We find out more

from one local boarding school.

ST CATHERINE’S

SCHOOL

Station Road, Bramley, Guildford,

Surrey GU5 0DF

www.stcatherines.info

Boarding is an intrinsic part of St

Catherine’s School, Bramley and

is fundamental to the ethos of the

school. Boarding fosters respect

and concern for others and a

collegiate spirit, yet gives the

girls the confidence to develop

Hall Grove School

their independence and their own

individual character and style.

Boarding also creates a strong

sense of community from which

day girls also benefit.

Boarding at St Catherine’s

offers a unique environment

where students live, learn,

and grow together. It is more

than accommodation; it is a

community built on care, respect,

and opportunity. The school’s

boarding experience is designed

to support each student’s

personal journey, helping them

to flourish academically, socially,

and emotionally while developing

the independence and resilience

needed for life beyond school.

St Catherine’s has long had both

full and weekly boarding options

and will, from September 2026,

be introducing a new flexible

boarding model - Flexi-Nights

- giving girls the opportunity to

stay at school for one or two

nights per week. It’s the perfect

way to enjoy the benefits of

boarding while still embracing the

familiarity of day school life.

Flexi-Nights offer a supportive,

flexible step towards greater

independence at a pace that

feels right for your daughter. This

option is ideal for rehearsals,

fixtures, training sessions,

and late-finishing clubs. No

commuting stress, just time

to fully participate. Peaceful

evenings, nutritious meals,

healthy sleep patterns, and

structured prep time help

students stay balanced and

focused during demanding

weeks. Supervised study

sessions, consistent revision

routines, and an academicallyfocused

environment support

girls’ preparation for exams.

Flexi-Nights offers two flexible

ways for students to experience

overnight stays at school: Set-

Stay, a regular, pre-booked

1-2 night pattern each week,

or As-You-Need, occasional

nights booked as needed across

the term. Whether you choose

a consistent routine or added

flexibility, students benefits

from the structure, support,

and growing independence of

boarding, at a pace that suits

them and their families.

Flexi-boarding is a gentle

introduction to greater

independence, building

organisational skills, resilience,

and self-assurance in a

supportive setting, with overnight

care from experienced House

staff who know each pupil well,

ensuring every girl feels secure,

supported, and at home.

Open Events:

Thursday 17th September

9.45 – 12

Tuesday 13th September

9.45 – 12

Sixth Form Open Evening

Friday 25th September

5.30pm – 9


Introducing Andy Day's

Roarsome New Series!

Andy Day – who is loved by children as one of the

best-known stars of preschool television, including

the hugely popular ‘Andy’s Adventures’ and ‘Andy

and the Band’ – brings his signature humour and

energy to this dino-tastic new young fiction series!

Deep in a land where mountains rumble and volcanoes

roar…Where deserts and oceans are alive with excitement…

Dinosaurs gather for the most thrilling sport in history, to

watch the…

DINO RACERS!

It’s race day at Rumble Ridge, and the Dino Racers are getting

ready to put their totally roarsome race cars through their paces.

Join Trexy, Bumper, Stretch, Flappa and Zoomer as they compete

in the Jungle and Lava Cups, and navigate not just the track but

tricky teammates too. Who will get stuck in the mud – and who

will speed their way to glory?

DINO BOY SAVES THE ZOO

Dylan is a pretty ordinary kid. Except for one thing: when he

sneezes, he turns into a dinosaur!

He’s one of a kind. Or is he . . .?

When Dylan goes on a school trip to the zoo, his dinosneezes

make him the main attraction - until he hears a

BUUUUURRRRRPPP and a ROOOAAAARRR that changes

everything. Will Dylan be able to prove he’s the best dino

kid ever?

With over 30 different dinosaurs to discover in this story, this is

a brilliantly funny, heartwarming adventure that shows us how

extraROARdinary true friendship can be.

“I have had so much fun writing Dino Dad and Dylan the Dino

Boy, and I could not be more excited to be sharing my brand-new

series, Dino Racers! I’m so lucky to have a career in children’s TV

that’s lasted since 2007 and is still going! Now I feel even luckier

to have been welcomed so warmly into the wonderful world of

children’s books – and connecting with so many readers over the

past two years.

When thinking about what I wanted to write next, I looked back

on the moments I fell in love with books – and the times I’ve seen

my own little ones fall in love with books, too. I wanted to write

a story that helps younger readers find this spark – a book that

children who might be more easily distracted (or be tempted to

choose a video game) would really love, and would want to keep

reading! Dino Racers was my answer!

Find Andy’s Dino Dad and Dino Racer books on

www.penguin.co.uk

Reset for September

As summer gently fades, September offers

the perfect opportunity to pause, reset

and step into a new season feeling your

very best...

September often carries the feeling of a second new year. After

the looseness of summer — late nights, holidays, barbecues,

disrupted routines and perhaps a few postponed appointments

— the return to structure can feel like an opportunity to reset. It

is a natural moment to take stock, make fresh plans and invest a

little time in feeling better.

For many, that starts with health. The change of season is a

useful prompt to book the check-ups that have slipped down

the list, whether that is a dental appointment, eye test, physio

session or overdue health review. Small, practical steps can make

a real difference, helping to catch niggles early and giving peace

of mind as the busier autumn months begin.

It is also an ideal time to refresh fitness and wellbeing routines.

Cooler days can make exercise feel more appealing, whether

that means returning to the gym, trying a new class, booking

personal training sessions or simply committing to regular walks.

September can be far more motivating than January: the days are

still light, the weather is gentler, and there is time to build healthy

habits before winter sets in.

Beauty and skincare routines often benefit from a seasonal

rethink too. After months of sun, travel and outdoor living,

skin may need extra hydration, repair or professional advice.

Treatments such as facials, skin consultations, massage, hair

appointments or non-invasive aesthetic treatments can all help

restore confidence and create a sense of renewal.

Above all, a September reset does not need to be dramatic.

It is about making considered choices that support everyday

wellbeing — booking the appointment, restarting the routine,

treating tired skin, prioritising rest and carving out time to

feel like yourself again. As autumn approaches, this is the

perfect moment to begin the new season with renewed energy,

confidence and care.


Open Morning

Saturday 26 th

September 2026

9:30am - 12:30pm

A vibrant and nurturing

co-educational school community

from nursery through to GCSE

TASTER DAYS

AND CHILDCARE

VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Open Day 20th February 2024.

Open Day 20th Febru

Taster days and childcare vouch

Taster days and childcare vouchers available.

A vibrant and nurturing co-educational setting from Nursery to GCSE A vibrant and nurturing co-educational setti

Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Surrey, GU6 7NS www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk

Duke Kent Duke School, Kent Peaslake School, Road, Peaslake Ewhurst, Road, GU6 7NS Ewhurst, Surrey, GU6

www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk 01483 277313

@dukeofkentschool @DoKSchool @dukeofkentschool Duke of of Kent Kent School School DoKSchool @DoKSchool

59088_Duke_of_Kent_Advert_A5_L_6.indd 1 59088_Duke_of_Kent_Advert_A5_L_6.indd 1

06/10/2022 14:06

St Peter’s C.E. Primary School, Cowfold

OFSTED - STRONG IN ALL 7 AREAS!

“ Warm nuturing relationships

between staff and pupils sit

at the heart of the school’s

success....” OFSTED 2026

Read our report

SPACES AVAILABLE

Please contact us to book a tour:

Tel. 01403 864365 | Email. office@stpeterscowfold.uk

www.stpetersce.eschools.co.uk

Facebook Instagram: stpeterscowfold


The Late-Summer

TABLE

Make the most of the delicious overlap

between summer and autumn with three

colourful seasonal recipes

ROASTED PEACH, TOMATO AND BURRATA SALAD

Serves 4 as a starter or light lunch

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins

Roasting the fruit briefly intensifies

its sweetness, while creamy

burrata, fragrant basil and toasted

almonds make this simple salad feel

wonderfully indulgent.

INGREDIENTS

4 ripe peaches or nectarines,

stoned and cut into wedges

400g mixed cherry tomatoes, larger

ones halved

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp runny honey

2 x 150g balls of burrata

A handful of fresh basil leaves

30g flaked almonds

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or glaze

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt and freshly ground black

pepper

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C

fan/gas mark 7. Arrange the peach

wedges and tomatoes on a large

baking tray, drizzle with the olive oil

and honey, season, and toss gently.

Roast for 12–15 minutes, until the

peaches are lightly caramelised and

the tomatoes have softened but still

hold their shape.

Meanwhile, toast the almonds in

a dry frying pan for two or three

minutes until golden.

Leave the fruit to cool for five

minutes, then spoon onto a serving

platter with the tray juices. Tear over

the burrata and scatter with the

basil and almonds.

Finish with balsamic vinegar or

glaze, extra virgin olive oil and black

pepper, and serve slightly warm.


CIRCA 16TH

CENTURY

Nestled in the heart of the Sussex

countryside, The Fountain is a

beautifully restored 16th century

pub offering seasonal dishes,

fine wines, local ales and a warm

welcome all year round.

BEAUTIFULLY PREPARED

SEASONAL FOOD

FINE WINE

& LOCAL ALES

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS

& AL FRESCO DINING

DOG FRIENDLY

A WARM WELCOME

Join us for a relaxed lunch, romantic dinner, Sunday roast or drinks by the fire.

Whether it’s a special occasion or just because, you’ll always find the perfect setting at The Fountain

The Village, Ashurst,

West Sussex BN44 3AP

01403 710219

mail@fountainashurst.pub

www.fountainashurst.com

SCAN TO BOOK

YOUR TABLE

LEMON AND

HERB CHICKEN

TRAYBAKE

with Courgettes and Feta

Serves 4–6

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins

Crisp-skinned chicken, golden potatoes and

tender courgettes roast together in a lemony

herb dressing. Crumbled feta added towards

the end brings a fresh, salty finish.

INGREDIENTS

750g baby new potatoes, halved if large

2 courgettes, cut into thick rounds

2 unwaxed lemons

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme, or several fresh thyme

sprigs

6 large skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs

150ml chicken stock

150g feta

A small handful of fresh thyme leaves

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 210°C/190°C fan/gas

mark 6½.

Place the potatoes in a large roasting tin.

Finely grate the zest of one lemon over them,

then add the garlic, two tablespoons of olive

oil, oregano, thyme and plenty of seasoning.

Toss everything together.

Arrange the chicken thighs among the

potatoes, skin-side up. Rub the remaining

olive oil over the chicken and season well.

Cut the zested lemon into wedges and tuck

these around the chicken. Pour the stock into

the base of the tin, avoiding the chicken skin

so that it can become crisp.

Roast for 30 minutes.Remove the tin from the

oven and add the courgette rounds. Turn them

through the cooking juices without disturbing

the chicken too much.

Return to the oven for another 20 minutes,

until the potatoes are tender and the chicken

is golden and completely cooked through.

Crumble the feta over the tray and add a few

slices or wedges of the remaining lemon.

Roast for a final five minutes.

Scatter with fresh thyme and spoon the

lemony pan juices over the potatoes and

courgettes before serving.


BLACKBERRY AND

APPLE GALETTE

Serves 6–8

Prep: 25 mins, plus chilling | Cook: 40–45 mins

This free-form tart is much easier than a traditional

pie but looks beautifully impressive. Apples provide

structure while blackberries collapse into a glossy,

jewel-coloured filling.

INGREDIENTS

For the pastry

250g plain flour

40g caster sugar

A pinch of fine salt

150g cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

1 egg yolk

2–4 tbsp ice-cold water

For the filling

3 medium eating apples

200g blackberries

60g light brown or caster sugar

1½ tbsp cornflour

Finely grated zest of ½ lemon

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

To finish

1 egg, beaten

1 tbsp demerara sugar

Crème fraîche, softly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream,

to serve

METHOD

Place the flour, sugar and salt in a bowl. Rub in the cold

butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs,

then add the egg yolk and two tablespoons of ice-cold

water. Mix with a knife, adding a little more water if

needed, until the dough comes together. Shape into a

disc, wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 and

heat a large flat baking sheet inside.

Core and thinly slice the apples, then toss with the

blackberries, sugar, cornflour, lemon zest and juice,

cinnamon and vanilla. The cornflour will thicken the

juices and help keep the pastry crisp.

Roll the pastry between two sheets of baking paper into

a rough 34cm circle. Remove the top sheet and arrange

the fruit in the centre, leaving a 5cm border. Leave

behind any excess liquid in the bowl.

Fold the pastry edges over the fruit, pleating as you go.

Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with demerara sugar.

Transfer the galette, on its baking paper, to the hot tray

and bake for 40–45 minutes, until deeply golden and

bubbling. Leave to rest for 15 minutes so the filling can

settle, then serve warm or at room temperature with

crème fraîche, cream or vanilla ice cream.


THE SMART AUTUMN

HOME UPGRADE

As summer gives way to autumn,

the way we use our homes changes

almost overnight. Garden doors

are closed a little earlier, evenings

are spent indoors again, and small

frustrations we ignored through

warmer months suddenly become

harder to miss: the draught by the

back door, tired kitchen flooring, a

chilly bathroom, a gloomy hallway,

or a garden room that is too cold to

use once temperatures drop.

Autumn is a natural time to reassess

the home. It sits neatly between the

ease of summer and the demands

of winter, offering a useful window

to plan improvements that make

day-to-day life warmer, smarter and

more comfortable. Whether you

are planning to stay put or thinking

about a future move, well-chosen

upgrades can make a home more

enjoyable now while supporting its

long-term appeal.

The smartest autumn improvements

are not always the biggest or most

expensive. Often, they are the ones

that solve everyday problems:

better glazing, warmer floors,

improved lighting, more storage,

efficient heating, or a kitchen that

works properly for family life.

START WITH

WARMTH AND

COMFORT

Before choosing colours, finishes

or statement pieces, it is worth

thinking about the basics: heat,

light, insulation and flow. A beautiful

room will never feel truly inviting if it

is draughty, poorly lit or expensive

to keep warm.

Windows and doors are a good

place to begin. Older glazing can

allow heat to escape, making rooms

harder to warm and bills more

difficult to manage. Modern double

or triple glazing, composite doors,

aluminium systems and well-fitted

bi-folds or sliding doors can all

help improve comfort, security and

appearance. For period homes,

specialist companies can often

advise on sympathetic options

DESIGN TIP

Think about where an upgrade

will have the biggest daily impact.

Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms,

hallways and bedrooms usually

work hardest in autumn and

winter. Prioritise improvements

that make these spaces warmer,

brighter or more practical.

that improve performance without

compromising character.

Heating is another area where a

thoughtful upgrade can transform

everyday living. Underfloor

heating, efficient radiators, smart

thermostats and improved boiler

or heat pump systems can all

help create a more consistent

temperature. Bathrooms, kitchens

and open-plan living spaces

particularly benefit from properly

planned heating, as these are

often the rooms used most during

autumn and winter.


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DESIGN TIP

Heating and lighting should be part

of the design from the beginning.

Underfloor heating, radiator

positions, sockets, dimmers, task

lighting and exterior lighting all

need early planning.

It is also worth considering the

less visible improvements. Loft

insulation, draught-proofing,

secondary glazing, roof repairs

and better ventilation may not offer

the instant visual impact of a new

kitchen, but they can make a major

difference to how a home feels and

performs.

KITCHENS THAT

WORK HARDER

The kitchen often comes back into

focus in autumn. After a summer of

lighter meals and outdoor eating,

cooler weather brings slow cooking,

baking, Sunday lunches, school

routines and Christmas planning. It

is the room where practical design

really matters.

A full redesign can be one

of the most rewarding home

improvements, but smaller

Olive & Barr

changes can also have strong

impact. Replacing tired worktops,

updating cupboard fronts, installing

better lighting or rethinking storage

can make the space feel refreshed

without starting from scratch.

For those planning a complete

project, autumn is a good time to

speak to local kitchen designers,

particularly if you hope to have

work completed ahead of spring

entertaining next year.

The best kitchens balance form

and function. Deep drawers,

pantry cupboards, boiling water

taps, integrated recycling, durable

flooring and layered lighting all help

a kitchen cope with real family life.

Natural materials, warm neutrals,

soft greens, rich woods and aged

brass finishes remain popular

choices for creating a space that

feels both current and timeless.

BATHROOMS

AS EVERYDAY

RETREATS

Bathrooms have moved far beyond

the purely practical. As routines

become busier in autumn, a welldesigned

bathroom can offer a

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small but meaningful sense of

calm at the beginning and

end of the day.

For some homeowners, the

priority is comfort: better heating,

improved ventilation, non-slip

flooring or a more powerful

shower. For others, it may be

about creating a spa-like feel

with natural stone, brushed brass

fittings, soft lighting, large-format

tiles or a freestanding bath. Even

cloakrooms and en-suites can feel

special with careful design, mirrors,

wall lights or bespoke storage.

Autumn is also a useful time to

tackle bathroom issues because

condensation and poor ventilation

become more noticeable as

windows stay closed. Extractor

fans, heated mirrors and good

airflow should be considered as

carefully as tiles and taps.

FLOORING,

LIGHTING AND

FINISHING

TOUCHES

Few upgrades alter the mood of a

room as quickly as flooring. It affects

warmth, acoustics, maintenance and

style, and is especially noticeable in

autumn when people spend more

time indoors.

Carpet remains popular for

bedrooms, staircases and sitting

rooms, adding softness and warmth

underfoot. In hallways, kitchens

and boot rooms, practicality

often comes first. Engineered

wood, luxury vinyl tiles, porcelain,

stone and laminate can all offer

hardwearing surfaces that cope

with muddy shoes, pets and

everyday traffic. If you are replacing

flooring, it may also be worth

considering underfloor heating,

particularly in kitchens, bathrooms

and extensions.

Lighting is equally important. As

evenings draw in, poor lighting

can make rooms feel flat, cold or

impractical. The most successful

schemes use layers: ceiling lights

for general illumination, wall lights

and lamps for atmosphere, and

task lighting for cooking, reading or


working. Exterior lighting

can also improve safety

and security as darker

evenings return.

FLEXIBLE

SPACE FOR

MODERN

LIVING

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One of the lasting

shifts in home design

has been the demand

for flexible space. Garden

rooms, studios, insulated

outbuildings and converted

garages can provide

valuable extra room without

the disruption of a major

extension.

In autumn, the quality of

a garden room becomes

especially important. A

summerhouse that works in

July may not be comfortable

in November unless it has

proper insulation, heating,

lighting and ventilation. If

the space is intended as

a home office, gym, guest

room, creative studio or

teenage den, it needs to

cater for year-round use.

Storage is another practical

upgrade worth considering.

Coats, boots, school bags,

sports kit and umbrellas

all need somewhere to

go. Built-in cabinetry, boot

rooms, utility spaces,

under-stairs storage and

fitted wardrobes can make a

home feel calmer and more

spacious while making daily

routines easier.

ADD VALUE

BY SOLVING

REAL

PROBLEMS

It is tempting to think of

home improvements purely

in terms of resale value,

but the most worthwhile

upgrades usually begin with

real-life problems. A cold

room, dated bathroom,

cramped kitchen, leaking

roof, dark entrance or

DESIGN

TIP

Not every upgrade

adds the same value

to every home. Before

committing to a

major project, speak

to experienced local

specialists, from glazing

companies and kitchen

designers to flooring

experts, electricians

and heating engineers.

underused garden can all

affect how much you enjoy

your home.

Estate agents often point

to kitchens, bathrooms,

energy efficiency, kerb

appeal and flexible living

space as areas that

influence buyer perception.

However, quality matters.

Poorly finished work,

cheap materials or badly

planned layouts can do

more harm than good.

Investing in skilled local

trades, proper design and

durable materials is often

more cost-effective in the

long run than choosing the

quickest fix.

Autumn is a season of

preparation, but it is also a

season of possibility. With

the right improvements, a

home can become warmer,

brighter, more efficient and

more enjoyable through the

months ahead.

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Notes from the garden...

WATERING WOES AND

BOUNTIFUL BEES

By Angela Cave

It’s that time of the year and our gardens are

still growing and producing for us - but they

are thirsty and have worked hard! Watering

is key now and conserving water equally

so. The best time to water is in the evening

so that the roots have the coolest part of

the day to absorb the moisture and it is less

likely to evaporate.

I am sure we are now very aware of not

wasting water. I keep a bucket in my kitchen

so when I have washed vegetables I put the

water in the bucket for use later. Likewise

my dehumidifier - I have an old house - is

very generous too!

Bird baths, water for bees and insects

to drink, they all need attention and my

blackbird loves a cool evening splash about.

Not in the birdbath for some reason but in a

small poultry feeder I keep filled with water

for insects - fussy blackbird!

I have several water butts too and any rain

to replenish them is a treasured joy.

The cooler weather has brought out the

bees and butterflies again too. We can

all keep a lookout for tired bees and bee

organisations recommend carrying a little

sugar water vial in case we come across

one. 70% of bees live in the ground so

do be aware when digging - bees need

all the help they can get. There are some

great books and posters available to teach

children about bees too, so important to

ensure we care for one of our most precious

garden visitors. The British Bee Charity, The

Bumblebee Conservation Trust and The

British Beekeeper’s Association have great

advice on bees, plants to attract bees and

bee information too - check them out.

The summer has seen us all out in our

gardens more and now is a good time to

consider how we have used it. What bits

work, what bits don’t work and what we

would like to enjoy next year….

That is one of the joys of gardening - there

is always something new to plan.

‘It was the bumble bee and the

butterfly who survived, not the

dinosaur’ – Meridel Le Sueur

Angela trained at Lackham College before

spending a year at the Sir Harold Hillier

Gardens in Romsey. While at Lackham,

she won the RHS Student Award and

later became a member of the Guild of

Horticultural Trade Show Judges, judging

at prestigious events including the Royal

Bath & West Show, the Shrewsbury Flower

Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show.

Although no longer actively involved in

horticulture, her garden is bursting with

plants, and she spends her days off

tending to it while constantly resisting the

temptation to buy “just one more plant!”

…BBreathing life into tuour Gard

Garden Design, Construction & Maintenance

01403 710404 direct line

07940 813610 mobile

info@rootstoshoots.co.uk

www.rootstoshoots.co.uk


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Our offices are operated by friendly, experienced

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Pre-Marital and Inherited Wealth:

Protected or Shared in Divorce?

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

One of the most frequent questions we are asked as family

lawyers is whether money or assets brought into the

marriage or inherited during it will be divided on divorce.

There has been a decision in the Supreme

Court, known as Standish v Standish,

providing important guidance on this very

issue and how property deemed to be

‘matrimonial’, and property deemed to be

‘non-matrimonial’ should be dealt with.

The legal issue at the centre of the case

was: When does non-matrimonial property

become matrimonial property and should

this property be shared on divorce?

The key takeaways from the Supreme Court

decision are that:

• The sharing principle applies only

to matrimonial property, not nonmatrimonial

property.

• The law will look at the source of the

assets, rather than what form they are

in and whose name they are in, when

looking at whether they have become

matrimonial.

• The treatment by the spouses of the

asset/s in question and their intentions

are important in assessing whether

they have become matrimonial.

• The transfer of an asset between

spouses in a scheme designed to save

tax, irrespective of the time period

involved, will not normally demonstrate

that the asset is being treated as being

shared and therefore has become

matrimonial.

• Simply transferring assets between

spouses does not automatically

convert them into matrimonial property.

I am divorcing – how does this impact

me?

Family law judges have a wide discretion

under the law and, therefore, decisions

often vary according to each couple’s

circumstances. As such, caution must be

taken when separating couples are looking

at cases like Standish against their own,

particularly as Standish is an ultra-high net

worth case where the financial needs of the

parties did not need to be considered due to

their substantial wealth.

Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements

remain an effective way of protecting

assets and avoid being subject to the

court’s wide discretion. Following Standish,

when contemplating any tax planning,

family lawyers recommend entering into a

pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement in the

event that the relationship breaks down in

the future.

How can we help?

At Family Law Partners, our specialist

family lawyers in Horsham are recognised

as experts in family law by The Times Best

Law Firms, Resolution, Chambers UK and

the Legal 500. If you think that the Standish

case has relevance for your circumstances

you can book a meeting with us to consider

future planning including pre-nuptial or postnuptial

agreements.

01403 599215

enquiries@familylawpartners.co.uk

www.familylawpartners.co.uk

A different approach to

family law

Our Horsham team deliver exceptional client

care and promote the use of alternative

dispute resolution to help minimise both the

emotional and financial cost of separation.

The Family Law Partners office is in

central Horsham. We also advise clients in

Billingshurst, Cranleigh, Crawley, Godalming,

Guildford and surrounding areas.

We can help you with:

Children matters

•

Divorce and Separation

Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

Cohabitation disputes

Prenuptial and Postnuptial agreements

Cohabitation agreements

Mediation and Collaborative Law

For a confidential conversation and to learn

more about our fixed fee appointments

contact our team:

01403 599215

info@familylawpartners.co.uk

www.familylawpartners.co.uk


PLANNING WELL

FOR LATER LIFE

Thinking about later life can feel daunting,

particularly when decisions are being

made in response to illness, bereavement

or a sudden change in circumstances.

But planning early can make the years

ahead feel calmer, more secure and more

enjoyable — whether you are considering

your own future or helping an older parent

or relative explore their options.

From choosing where to live to

understanding care, finances and legal

matters, the most useful approach is to take

things one step at a time...

START WITH THE LIFESTYLE, NOT THE

LABEL

One of the biggest decisions in later life is where to live, but it

helps to begin with a simple question: what sort of day-to-day

life would feel good?

For some, staying in a much-loved home is the priority, perhaps

with adaptations, extra support or regular help. For others,

the idea of moving somewhere easier to manage — with less

maintenance, better accessibility and a ready-made community

— can be a positive step rather than a last resort.

Retirement communities vary hugely. Some offer independent

living with private apartments or houses, shared facilities and

social activities. Others provide additional support on site, which

can be reassuring if care needs change over time. When visiting,

look beyond the brochure: ask about service charges, future

care provision, transport links, guest accommodation, meal

options, pets, parking and what happens if needs increase.

UNDERSTANDING CARE OPTIONS

Care is not one-size-fits-all. Support might begin with a few

hours of help at home each week, such as assistance with

meals, medication, washing, dressing or companionship.

Live-in care may suit those who want to remain at home but

need more consistent support. Residential care homes provide

accommodation, meals and personal care, while nursing homes

offer support for people with more complex medical needs.

It is worth arranging a care needs assessment through the local

authority, even if you expect to pay privately. This can help

clarify what level of support is appropriate. Families should also

be realistic about what they can manage themselves. Wanting

to help is natural, but caring can be physically and emotionally

demanding, and outside support can protect relationships as

well as wellbeing.

LEGAL PLANNING: DO IT EARLY

Some of the most important later-life planning should happen

while everyone is well. A will should be up to date and reflect

current wishes. Lasting Powers of Attorney are also vital,

allowing trusted people to make decisions about finances,

property, health and welfare if someone loses capacity in the

future.

Without these documents, families may face delays and stress

at exactly the wrong time. It is sensible to take proper legal

advice, especially where property, blended families, business

interests or inheritance tax may be involved.

MONEY, PROPERTY AND PRACTICALITIES

Later-life financial planning is about clarity. That may include

pension income, savings, investments, property value, care

costs and entitlement to benefits or allowances. A regulated

financial adviser can help families understand what is affordable

now and what might be needed later.

Downsizing can release money and reduce daily strain, but it is

also emotional. Give yourself time to sort possessions gradually,

rather than waiting until a move becomes urgent. Start with

practical categories — paperwork, furniture, clothes, kitchen

items — and involve family where appropriate. The aim is not to

erase a life, but to make the next chapter easier.

KEEP THE CONVERSATION OPEN

The best planning is rarely a single decision. Circumstances

change, and so do people’s wishes. Gentle, regular

conversations are often better than one big family meeting. Ask

what matters most: staying local, keeping a garden, being near

grandchildren, maintaining independence, feeling safe, or having

company close by.

Handled well, later-life planning is not about loss of control. It

is about preserving choice, dignity and peace of mind — so

that when decisions do need to be made, they are guided by

thoughtfulness rather than panic.


An Exciting

Development at

Broadbridge Park

Care Home

Broadbridge Park is a

purpose-built luxury

care home in the

desirable location of

Broadbridge Heath

in Horsham, offering

high quality nursing,

residential and

dementia care.

Life at Broadbridge Park

is centred around our

residents, their needs and

wishes, and we’re delighted

to announce the addition of

nine new en-suite bedrooms

to the home, meaning we can

offer care to more people

in the local community

when they need us.

These state-of-the-art rooms

are part of a unique space on

the top floor which will also

boast bright and welcoming

communal areas and beautiful

views of the gardens and

surrounding area.

We pride ourselves on a

home filled with comfort and

a touch of luxury, with care

that comes from a genuine

interest in people. All our

bedrooms are en suite and

facilities throughout the home

include stunning wheelchair

accessible landscaped

gardens, a cinema, hair salon,

and large bistro café that's

perfect for taking part in

one of our many activities.

Whether you enjoy afternoon

tea with family, getting

creative with arts and

crafts, or relaxing with a

book, there’s something for

everyone at Broadbridge Park

Care Home and always lots

going on, so why not join us

at one of our events!

Open Weekend Events

Saturday 8th – Sunday 9th August,

Saturday 12th – Sunday 13th September,

10.00am – 4.00pm

Join us and be one of the

first to see our amazing new

penthouse rooms and facilities

on our newly launched

top floor.

To celebrate the completion

of our new development of

nine stunning top floor rooms

with views over Broadbridge

Heath, we're inviting friends,

neighbours and the wider

community to drop in during

one of our open weekends.

Tour our new top floor, meet

our friendly team, and enjoy

complimentary sweet treats

and a glass of bubbly.

For more information about life

at Broadbridge Park, to join us

for our Open Weekends, or to

RSVP for one of our upcoming

events, please get in touch.

BOOK

YOUR

VISIT

WITH US

TODAY

Call us

01403 330 065

Find us online

caringhomes.org

Chantry Court, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 3XY

HORSHAM

something

exciting

is moving in.

scan to be

the first to know

Horsham Living Aug - Sep 2026

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