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Features

  • Spotlight Events: November 2024

    Your guide to all the best local events happening in November...

  • What to Watch in November 2024

    Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming to screens in November...

  • Weddings: The Music of Love

    Music can set the heart alight, not to mention the dance floor, which is why it’s a vital part of the wedding day. Sara Whatley talks beats, bars and crescendos

  • Be Well, Move Happy: Work-Life Balance and Mobility

    Balancing life, both physically and emotionally, is something we all strive to achieve. Sara Whatley looks at maintaining a good work-life balance and a healthy happy body

  • Multigenerational Holidays

    In our increasingly busy lives, the chance to spend quality family time bonding across the generations can be hard to come by. Enter the multigenerational holiday as Lisa de Silva explains

  • Home Style: White Wonder

    Janet van den Berg’s home is a lesson in tranquility. Shades of white and layers of texture give this light-filled family house a calm and welcoming atmosphere

  • Homes Extra: Let it Shine

    Let your windows sparkle and shine with some special window TLC. Sara Whatley finds out more

  • Money Matters: Where There's a Will...

    Adele Trathan explains the importance of making a will to protect your finances

  • National Burn Awareness Day 2024: Keep Yourself Safe This Winter

    When is the last time you checked your hot water bottle? Kristina Stiles, Nurse and Ambassador for Children’s Burns Trust, explains why simple safety checks can be life-savers...

  • Care Month: Generation Carents

    Local lady Louise Thompson tells the story of her 600-mile round-trip solely to care for her frail parents, and how The Carents Room has become a lifeline to many like her

  • Care Month: Home Safety

    Being in your own home is often the preferred option for later life, and with this handy guide from the National Council On Aging (NCOA) you can make sure your home is safe, secure and comfortable

  • Best Sussex Towns & Villages Award: The Shortlist

    The votes are in! After many, many nominations and careful deliberation, we are pleased to announce the five shortlisted entries to our Best Sussex Town & Village of the Year competition!

  • Home Style: Dressed to Impress

    The interior of Susie Nelson’s listed home in Rye, East Sussex is much like the vintage clothes and accessories she deals in – graceful and timeless

  • Spotlight Events: October 2024

    Your guide to all the best local events coming in October 2024...

  • What to Watch in October 2024

    Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows to get stuck into in October...

  • Accessible LA and Las Vegas

    Bill Murray explores the possibilities of accessible travel in the great American cities of Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and finds that having a disability doesn't have to be a barrier to travelling in luxury and style

  • The Great Greenwashing Scandal

    Think you’re a savvy eco-consumer? Adele Trathan says you may need to think again...

  • Outdoor Activity Holidays

    A holiday offers the chance to take a break from the everyday routine of life. Lisa de Silva explores the many types of holidays that offer the opportunity to get active

  • Be Well, Move Happy: Sound and Dance

    Sara Whatley is inviting you to open your ears and get grooving to the music this month as she looks at sound and vibration for wellness, and dancing for health

  • Xavi, the Elephant Whisperer

    This remarkable young man has fundraised nearly £5000 to help Wildlife SOS look after rescued elephants, and in the process has turned his own life around as well. Sara Whatley found out more


Community News


Lifestyle

  • Five Amazing Disco Films to Brighten Your Day

    Whether you love a good dance floor, fabulous fashion, or simply need a feel-good escape, these disco films are sure to brighten your day. Here are five amazing disco-inspired movies that will transport you to an era of shimmering lights, soulful grooves, and the ultimate celebration of fun:

  • Five Incredible Bonfire Displays Worldwide

    The bonfire, an ancient tradition of fire and festivity, has become a canvas for celebration across cultures worldwide. Some of these fiery gatherings have evolved into massive public spectacles, where communities come together in awe of blazing art forms that range from awe-inspiring sculptures to burning effigies. Here’s a look at five of the wildest, most impressive bonfire displays that captivate audiences around the globe:

  • Five Unique Sauces From Around The World

    Sauces have a way of capturing the heart of a culture’s cuisine. The right combination of spices, herbs, and textures can bring out the richness of any dish. Here are five lesser-known but incredible sauces from around the world, each with its unique history and flavour profile.

  • Five Incredible Places Perfect To Visit In November

    November is a wonderful month for travel, with cooler temperatures, unique festivals, and some of nature’s most beautiful displays. Whether you're seeking cultural events, quiet escapes, or natural wonders, here are five destinations that are perfect for a November getaway:

  • Five Random Islands You Can Visit

    When most people think of island getaways, famous destinations like Hawaii, the Maldives, or the Greek Islands come to mind. But beyond the usual tropical hotspots, there are countless lesser-known islands waiting to be discovered. These hidden gems offer unique landscapes, fascinating cultures, and unforgettable experiences, all with a fraction of the tourist crowds. Whether you're looking for serenity, adventure, or something completely out of the ordinary, here are five random islands you can visit that promise an escape unlike any other:


Food and Drink

  • Recipe: Hearty Beef & Pumpkin Stew

    This is the perfect, homely dinner to look forward to as the autumn nights draw in. Adele Trathan explains how to make this delicious casserole that is baked and served straight from the pumpkin

  • Recipe: Autumn Minestrone Soup

    This is a hearty autumn or early winter version of Minestrone Soup served with a lovely homemade pesto. Containing such a variety of vegetables – it will definitely up your 5-a-day quota

  • Recipe: William Shatner’s Cappuccino Muffins!

    Even in outer space, there’s nothing quite like a cappuccino muffin. Star Trek legend William Shatner goes boldly into the kitchen and delivers the goods...

  • Kids Zone: Apples, Apples and more Apples

    This month Sara Whatley and her family have gone mad for apples

  • Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

    Deliciously light and fluffy, these red velvet cupcakes with a gorgeous soft cheese frosting are ideal for an afternoon tea – they are sure to impress your guests

  • Recipe: Saffron & Lemon Chicken Joojeh Kebabs

    This probably features on the menu of every Persian restaurant in the world, the marinade of yogurt and lemon juice tenderises the meat beautifully. This simplified version can be made at home in a conventional oven or grill if you don’t have a barbecue

  • South Carolina BBQ Chicken Thighs

    Try this winning BBQ chicken recipe from Grillstock founders Jon Finch and Ben Merrington and learn how to make both an authentic South Carolina BBQ sauce, and their secret BBQ rub.

  • Weddings: The Food of Love

    From a vegan feast to sausage, mash and gravy, what will you serve at your wedding? Sara Whatley explores the world of wedding catering

  • Vino, Vidi, Vici: The Vineyards, Breweries & Distilleries of Sussex

    James Forryan investigates the history of producing wine, beer and spirits in Sussex, and how we should all say 'Cheers!' to its great success...

  • Recipe: Raspberry Blancmange

    Based on a retro classic, this blancmange is a far cry from its wobbly 1970s reputation – instead, this is a light and creamy raspberry and almond dessert

  • Recipe: Sizzling Spare Ribs with BBQ Sauce

    The perfect spare ribs for your summer barbeque!

  • Highweald Estate: Wines of Outstanding Natural Beauty

    One of the wonders of Sussex is the capacity to create food and drink of outstanding quality and Highweald Wine is one such example, producing English Sparking Wines of exceptional standard – Robert Veitch went to find out more, and enjoy a glass or two

  • Recipe: Salted Caramel Praline Brownie

    Baker and author of Postal Bakes, Lucy Burton, will have you drooling at these divine brownies.

  • Recipe: Olive Oil, Pistachio & Lemon Cake

    This simple but delicious cake is made in a food processor, so it takes just minutes to prepare. Serve it with a simple lemon and sugar glaze and sprinkle with a few roughly chopped pistachios and dried rose petals

  • Recipe: Pappardelle with Rose Harissa, Black Olives & Capers

    Pasta is perfect for an easy spring supper and ‘Pappare’ means ‘to gobble up’ in Italian, which is the destiny of this dish! If you prefer a little less spice, then simply reduce the quantity of harissa

  • Mary Berry's Mediterranean All-in-One Chicken

    This is a great way to feed the family as the chicken and veg are all cooked in one very large tray in the oven. It takes only minutes to put everything together then it sits in the oven for under an hour with no fussy finishing off to do and only one pan to wash up.

  • Recipe: Simple Fish Curry

    Cooking a curry from scratch can feel a little daunting but this traditional Burmese recipe is really easy. Lightly spiced, warming and stunningly simple, this curry is one you’ll return to again and again

  • Recipe: Easter Leg of Lamb

    When it comes to Easter feasts, you can always look to Italy for a sublime celebration of food, family and faith. This Easter leg of lamb with an Italian twist is the perfect dish to serve to your brood over the bank holiday

  • Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Buttercups

    The dreamy combination of chocolate and peanut butter is indulgent and decadent so the perfect treat for Easter. These little beauties contain only a few ingredients (with a vegan option) and are quick and super easy to make

  • Recipe: Prune and Orange Hot Cross Buns

    As a master baker and judge of ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery, Peter Sidwell knows a thing or two about hot cross buns, as this fragrant and delicious recipe testifies.


Downtime


People

  • Hailsham House: More Than Just Care, It’s Home

    We asked Helen Stockton to visit Hailsham House Care Home, she discovered a place where the focus is on creating a warm, welcoming place to call home

  • Age UK East Sussex Needs You!

    Age UK East Sussex is looking for more volunteers, Rachel Kelly from the charity explains how the role often gives a sense of personal reward and comfort through helping others

  • Parkers Car & Truck Rental Celebrate 75 Years

    There’s a reason Parkers Car and Truck Rental are celebrating their 75th birthday, it’s because they excel at what they do, so Robert Veitch went to visit and learn more about the vehicle rental market

  • Have a Macmillan Coffee Morning!

    With this year’s Coffee Morning just around the corner on Friday 27 September, Adele Trathan speaks to Macmillan Cancer Support, who are calling on supporters to get involved again

  • "I quite like to end up with a setlist that involves a catalogue of human misery..." Nish Kumar on his return to stand-up comedy

    With a brand new stand-up tour coming to the UK later this year, including a number of shows in Sussex, we talk to comedian and TV present Nish Kumar about his time on The Mash Report, getting pelted with bread rolls at gigs, and why he always looks forward to playing shows in smaller towns...

  • Pure Inspiration

    Newly opened in Haywards Heath, Inspiration Gift Shop has the perfect present for every occasion. Hanna Prince pays owner Rachel Taylor a visit to find out more

  • Creating a Dream at The Pauline Quirke Academy

    With performing arts known to play a leading role in helping children to develop many valuable life skills, we asked Lisa de Silva to meet with Florence Tingley and Rebecca Goffin to find out more about the local Pauline Quirke Academies

  • A Little Slice of Heaven

    Farming, food and leisure are the three cornerstones of Heaven Farm, where you will find all three in abundance, including the newly refurbished Butler’s Pantry. Sara Whatley reports

  • Charity: Institute for Cancer Research

    The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is striving to improve the lives of people with all types of cancer – including those with the most challenging to treat. Scientist Dr Anguraj Sadanandam explains why support for this research is vital

  • Volunteer for Motor Neurone Disease Association

    The Motor Neurone Disease Association is a charity that was established in 1979 to raise awareness, campaign for better care and support for people diagnosed with MND and their families, as Lisa Burnard from the charity explains

  • Riding to Success

    Not a coffee morning kind of couple, Alison and Henry are soon embarking on an ambitious UK tour on their 1960s scooters, all to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society. Sara Whatley finds out more

  • Step out for St Catherine’s Hospice

    St Catherine’s Hospice popular Midnight Walk is bouncing back to the streets of Horsham on Saturday 8 June, Adele Trathan explains how readers can get involved

  • Homes for Ukraine: Opening Your Home and Your Heart

    As the conflict in the Ukraine continues, Homes for Ukraine scheme is still keen to hear from people that are interested in hosting a Ukrainian guest, as Paul Crompton from East Sussex County Council explains

  • The Joy of the Repair Café

    Volunteers are central to the success of Repair Cafés across Sussex, so we sent Nicola Coughlin along to Lindfield Repair Cafe to talk to volunteers about their valuable contribution

  • An Unlikely Retirement

    Hove resident Sylvia Holder tells Sara Whatley the inspiring story of how she set up her charity, The Venkat Trust, when she should have been kicking back in her retirement

  • Matters of the Heart

    Jason Palmer, Volunteer Trustee and Director of The Sussex Heart Charity explains what this award winning charity do to save lives in Sussex

  • Rushfields: Celebrating 40 Years

    As Rushfields Plant Centre in Poynings gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year, James Forryan talked to founders Colin and Kathryn Langridge about the keys to their longevity and what they’ve learned over their 40 years in business

  • Interview: Comedian Connor Burns brings his Vertigo tour to Sussex

    With his new touring show Vertigo about to arrive in Sussex, we talk to Scottish comedian Connor Burns

  • A Double Dose: Interview with Michael Mosley and Clare Bailey

    Husband and wife health gurus Dr Michael Mosley and Dr Clare Bailey are on a mission to bring healthy eating and living to the masses. They talk to Sara Whatley about their upcoming tour and the health benefits of eating a Mediterranean diet...

  • You've Got a Friend

    Mid Sussex charity Befriended has grown so much since it’s beginnings in 2017. Gail Miller tells Sara Whatley what they have been up to


Homes and Gardens

  • Blooming Times: The Answer Lies in the Soil

    Soil is the gardener’s greatest asset. Understand it, look after it – and many of your horticultural problems will resolve themselves, writes Flo Whitaker

  • Blooming Times: Heavenly Hyacinths

    Versatile, easy-going hyacinths bring colour and scent indoors and out, writes Flo Whitaker

  • Legendary Builds with Phoenix Construction Services

    Phoenix Construction Services has worked on everything from A-list homes to museum conversions – now the company is turning its attention to local projects. Hanna Prince meets director Mark Woods to find out more

  • Blooming Times: Know Your Enemy

    Plagued with Vine Weevils? Enraged by Lily Beetles? Despairing of Box Caterpillars? Flo Whitaker investigates three of the most troublesome gardening pests

  • Bespoke Dreams from Eridge Green Kitchens

    Rob Wheeler’s passion for inspired carpentry and woodwork is unmistakable and instigated the creation of Eridge Green Kitchens. With a new showroom on the way and business flourishing, Robert Veitch went to visit the workshop

  • 10 Hot Years: iFit Fires & Flues

    iFit Fires & Flues Ltd are celebrating 10 years of successful business. The warm and genuine couple behind the name, Paul and Jo, share the secrets of with Sara Whatley

  • Home Style: Bold Type

    Textile designer Zoe Davis and her husband James have transformed a Grade-II listed farmhouse with a vibrant pallet and vintage finds

  • Blooming Times: The Sky's the Limit

    The clematis family offers flowers in a wide array of colours and shapes, and there are varieties for nearly every month of the year, says Flo Whitaker

  • Home Style: A Better Way of Life

    When Catherine and her late husband Dr Brian Sack left London for a more rural lifestyle. They bought a 16th century cottage and created a home full of modern artwork and stylish vintage French finds

  • Homes Extra: Shed Space

    Are you thinking of a new shed, greenhouse or garden room? Sara Whatley gives you some food for thought on all three

  • Blooming Times: Top of the Pots

    How are your patio pots? Show-stopping, or lacklustre? Time to try some different planting combinations, suggests Flo Whitaker

  • Kids Zone: Get the Kids Growing

    Read on for some green fingered ideas to get the kids involved in the garden from Sara Whatley

  • Home Style: Pastures New

    The grass really was greener for this family, who left behind their recently remodelled London house for a new life in the country

  • Homes Extra: Let There Be Light

    Read on for the latest in home and garden lighting ideas for a bright and up to date space, says Sara Whatley

  • Blooming Times: Wisteria Hysteria

    With its exquisitely fragrant, show-stopping blooms, wisteria is the queen of spring climbers – yet it can be frustratingly sulky and thuggish. Flo Whitaker offers a quick troubleshooting guide to floral success

  • Home Style: Home on Wheels

    A plot on the family farm with stunning marshland views was the ideal spot for Freddie Pack and Katie McNie to build their new home – a cabin on wheels

  • Home Style: Modern Outlook

    Downsizing couple Pauline and Bill chose practicality over space, but didn’t compromise on their love of mid-century style

  • Blooming Times: Dahlia Mania

    Inexpensive, hardworking plants with blooms in a vast array of colours and shapes - no flower is perfect, but dahlias come pretty close, says Flo Whitaker

  • Home Style: Time to Heal

    After losing her husband, Tracy Nors threw all her energies into renovating a period terrace in the pretty town of Rye

  • Blooming Times: Spring into Summer

    Say the word ‘bulb’ and thoughts of spring immediately come to mind - but there are some bulbus characters to plant now for summer colour. Flo Whitaker selects a few of her favourites


Animals


Hidden County


Health & Wellbeing

  • Pilates or Yoga - which practise will suit you most?

    Whether you’re just curious about the differences between the two, or are totally clueless on both practises, Yoga instructor & Assistant Editor Mary Goodsell sheds some light and advice on the two styles of exercise.

  • How to improve your posture and prevent unnecessary back pain

    Improving posture is important for maintaining good overall health and preventing musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, and poor circulation. Here are some tips to help you improve your posture:

  • Active Lifestyles: How to Keep Fit and Healthy in Mid Sussex

    Mid Sussex has always been a popular area in which to live. The winning combination of beautiful countryside and easy accessibility creates the perfect conditions for a great quality of life, whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a more mature person.

  • These are things you'll want to know about skincare in 2024

    Less is more. Don’t get conned. It’s a scam. These are the sorts of phrases you will hear Consultant Dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings saying about the skincare industry. She candidly speaks to Sara Whatley about ageing, menopause, Botox, and ‘Big Skincare’