Netherfield

She graduated from the University of Brighton in 2014 with a degree in “Illustration”. Her inspiration and most of her early subject matter came from working part-time at Broad Oak Kennels. She still maintains that link although her progression to a management position, befits her commitment and skills in the activities of this organisation. Part of her duties at the kennels include caring for Sussex Police dogs, which feature widely in her work. The eyes on her canine subjects tend to draw you in with their intensity. So life-like. As one would expect, her drawings and watercolours have shown, over the intervening years, the transition from gifted amateur to the young professional artist she is today. Her market is truly worldwide with product being sold regularly to both Australia and New Zealand as well as many other far flung corners of the globe. The range of products include; trinket boxes, cards, money boxes and mugs, in addition to some fascinating novelties. For those that wish to capture their pet on canvass, Kimberley offers a bespoke portraiture experience. Her studio, situated at the end of her garden, has a working kiln and many examples of her work on display. However, why wait when you can look at what she has to offer on www.kimberleysnelling.com.

Memorial to Simon Bishop: On Saturday afternoon 5th September, the bench, to commemorate the life and work of Simon Bishop, was installed around the tree planted in his memory. It is a solid example of local craftsmanship and will allow the community to take the weight off their feet, sit in quiet contemplation or watch the world as it passes by. Further suggestions have been made as to its use and I hope to bring further news on these matters in the coming weeks.

Netherfield Coffee Shop: It all seems to be happening in the village at the moment. Planning permission has been granted to Janette in the Netherfield Village Stores to open a coffee shop which I am sure will rival anything on the streets of London, New York or Moscow. Having spoken to Janette she is enthusiastic about listening to comments from the community on how the operation should be shaped. Who knows, a cup of “Kopi Lewak” could be coming to a shop near you. Just joking folks but she would like to know what you think.

Scholarship Workshop: Venue– Claremont Prep School, St Leonards, Saturday 12th September 2015, 10am-12pm, Ages 7-18yrs. The aim of the Scholarship Workshop is to find 2 pupils who we feel would benefit and excel within the Theatre Sense family. One who is already a member, and one who is new to Theatre Sense. We are not necessarily looking for someone who can already sing, dance and act to a high standard. Perhaps your child is a great singer, but needs some help with the dancing? Or maybe they can glide across the stage but lack the confidence to speak on their own or in front of people? Maybe they can do a bit of all 3 (sing, dance, act) but just need a bit more guidance...? This could be for them.

We want to recognize their existing achievements and develop them into SCHOLARSHIP WORKSHOP all-round performers, able to work independently and in a team. To develop and increase their self-confidence and belief, learning life skills, making new friends and getting ready for what lies ahead of them. Theatre Sense School for Performing Arts - Quality Tuition from a school that cares. Contact Sherri-Ann on 07519 246837 email: [email protected] or visit www.theatresense.co.uk Mrs Lorraine Mahoney CT ABRSM, ATCL Principal of Theatre Sense & West Wiltshire School for Performing Arts

Netherfield Charity Horse Ride: Don’t forget this annual event is on 12th and 13th September.

Netherfield Breakaway Club: The June meeting took place on Thursday 18th in The White Hart.  Our guest speaker was John Hayward on the Royal British Legion in – Origins of the Poppy’.  John began his talk by reciting a well known poem by wartime poet John McRae – ‘In Flanders Fields’.  The Legion was founded after the First World War on 11 November 1921 by a Miss Michael and 5 disabled ex-serviceman opened a ‘poppy’ factory in a small premises in Bermondsey - £106,000 was raised that year from the sale of the first poppies.   This grew to £14,000,000 in the 1990s and £45,000,000 in 2015.  Sussex is the biggest contributor to the fund and there are now over 300,000 collectors nationally and a new ‘poppy’ factory is located in Richmond. In 1971 the ‘Royal’ prefix was conferred.  The ethos of the Royal British Legion is welfare and bereavement support, which it has been providing to vast numbers of ex-serviceman for many years, including offering homes.  Many people are unaware of the importance and necessity of the on-going work the RBL does and it is sometimes confused with ‘Help for Heroes’, another wonderful cause to help young disabled ex-servicemen and their families but which may throw the future of the Legion into doubt.  To date £115.2 million has been raised from the poppy appeal, plus donations and legacies. So ‘remember’ to wear your poppy with pride and either become a collector or give generously when the time comes around, it is vital to keep this very valuable institution thriving!    Questions were dealt with and John was thanked for his most interesting talk.

Menus were handed round for members to choose their lunches for our September meeting on Thursday 17th in The White Hart.

Teas, coffees and biscuits followed and the raffle was drawn.

A theatre trip to The Congress, Eastbourne on 16 July to see ‘The Sound of Music’ was well attended by members and family/friends and what an excellent production it was! Superb singing, acting and wonderful sets made this now ‘classic’ musical by a touring company well worth the visit.  A warm afternoon with a pleasant drive and time for lunch beforehand made a delightful occasion.  Many thanks to our Chair – Marian Williams for organising this.

There being no meeting in August we look forward to our annual lunch, this time in September (exchanged with the July trip) at The White Hart, Netherfield.

In October we will be ‘Extending’ ourselves in Juliet Williams’ excercise class, which is always a very happy time with lots of laughter as we try to keep in time with the movements and music!

November sees a return visit of Terry Kane with his wartime memories and 1950s’ radio programmes.

December brings us round once again to our Christmas lunch, which will be held at The Brickwall, Sedlescombe.

The Breakaway Club meets on the third Thursday of each month (except August) at 3 pm at The White Hart, Netherfield where you will be assured of a warm welcome and new members/guests are always welcome.

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