Update from our Neighbourhood Wardens
It seems remarkable that we are soon approaching the anniversary of the outbreak of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Although everyone knows there is hope, they also know there is some way to go and more sacrifices are to be made before we can return to some sort of normality.
Whilst being on patrol and talking to people it is clear to us and our PSCOs that the overwhelming majority of residents of both Bramber and Upper Beeding have followed the guidelines and adhered to restrictions. The response and coming together of the community and the volunteer effort is truly amazing.
Unfortunately, some groups of young people have not been following the rules and we urge parents and carers to express the importance of the restrictions to their children to protect the whole community. PCSOs can and will issue fines for breaches and will be carrying out visits to parents whose children are not complying with the restrictions (a full explanation of the guidelines can be found on the Horsham District Council website)
It is even more important that we continue to follow the guidelines and support each other as the restrictions allow. Picking up the phone, running an errand or doing some shopping for a lonely or vulnerable neighbour or friend may just make their day. We may also be able help or signpost so please do not hesitate to contact us. We realise that the winter months are always more challenging for many and with the restrictions set to be in place for some time we need to look after each other.
Finally, please remember; wear a face covering, only go out if you need to, stay local, wash your hands frequently and stay safe.
Paul Conroy (07734 387888) and Michael Pearce (07734 387889)
Neighbourhood Wardens
January's Picture of the Month
New Year's Day walk in Washington Warren
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Bramber - A Snapshot
Bramber parish is a rural area in the lee of the South Downs, located inland from Shoreham-by-Sea and extending to some 1770 acres. Much of the land is actively farmed and ranges from flood plain to upland on to the South Downs. There is a natural boundary to the East in the river Adur which separates the village from Upper Beeding. The southern side is wholly rural and joins farms in the parish of Coombes, elsewhere the boundaries mingle with Steyning. Part of the parish falls within the newly created South Downs National Park. The Parish Council works closely with the Parishes of Upper Beeding and Steyning in matters of mutual interest.
There are four identifiable residential areas: Bramber village, which is a single linear street (originally a causeway) and still contains listed buildings; Maudlyn Park, largely a post-war housing development accommodating the majority of the parish's population and the two picturesque hamlets of Annington and Botolphs.
Historically the area has been populated for well over a 1000 years. It is recorded that the village developed along a trade route from Cornwall through to Kent and the Continent; had strong Saxon links and by 959 St Botolph's church had been built. Bramber castle and the church followed in 1073.
The villages contain buildings of considerable historical interest such as the Saxon church at Botolphs, Bramber Castle, which is cared for by English Heritage, St Nicholas Church, the oldest Norman Church in the county, and the 15th century former pilgrims rest at St Mary’s House. St. Mary's still attracts great interest and, through the efforts of the current owners and volunteers, the house and gardens have been restored to their former glory and numerous events are held throughout the year.
Whilst farming remains an important aspect of the local economy, there is also light industry in an industrial estate in Annington. There are no shops in the village but there is a pub (the Castle Hotel), the 38 bedroom Old Tollgate Hotel and Indian and Chinese restaurants. Tourism is still a major attraction to the area, which is criss-crossed by many footpaths and bridleways, including the Monarchs Way, the Downs Link and the South Downs Way.
Local interests are well catered for by the Parish Council and a social group called the Bramber Society. It organises various activities which bring residents together - talks, village cleanups, celebrations, arranging floral decorations through the village and Christmas carols and decorations. The village also has links with several specialised interest groups.
Schools, health services and local shops are provided from the neighbouring villages of Steyning and Upper Beeding.
Visitors
Parish Boundary (click for larger image)
Street Map (click for larger image)
