SPIKE'S SIGHT WORDS
Spike’s Sight Words create award-winning educational games to help children learn to read and spell. AAH met CEO and founder Sophie Bradley and the brand’s eight-armed mascot Spike at her Mannings Heath home to find out more. Full story here.
Sussex Solar Ltd is celebrating its 20th year as a family-run business this June. Founded by Horsham-based husband and wife Andy and Amanda Baxter, the business is now located in Southwater and has established a fine reputation as renewable energy experts. Full story here.
Toovey’s, the leading auctioneers of fine art, antiques and collectables in the south east, celebrates its 30th anniversary. For full story, click here.
THE NATURAL BODY COMPANY
The Natural Body Company may be a new name for Horsham town centre, but owner Suzy Wyner will be familiar to many shoppers. For 45 years, Suzy ran the Horsham branch of The Body Shop. Now, she has launched her own independent business in Swan Walk. Full story here.
When AAH needed a wooden display stand to match the décor and sustainable ethos of a local farm shop, they approached Lily’s Cottage. The husband-and-wife team of Martin and Debbie Standen built one from used pallets, adopting skills they’ve learned by making products for wildlife. Full story here.
Alexander Kitchens have been named as a finalist in the Kitchen Retailer of the Year category at the KBB Retail & Design Awards, the most prestigious ceremony in the industry. Full story here.
Victor Jannels, Chairman of Impact Specialist Finance, has received a lifetime achievement award for his work in the mortgages industry. Having founded the Horsham-based business in 1991, Vic and his wife Sheila now run Impact alongside sons Dale and Neal, who have spearheaded the development of innovative mortgage-based software. Full story here.
Siân Williams runs an independent tour company from her home in Horsham. South Asia Uncovered specialises in immersive journeys to India, offering small group tours and private, tailor-made itineraries. Here, Siân shares her passion for India. Full story here.
Natty Noo is a shop in Horsham’s Carfax that sells books, arts and crafts, T-shirts and a selection of gifts and accessories. These are all written, crafted or designed by local creatives and artisans who rent shelf space, giving them a chance to sell their wares in a central location. Full story here.
HUXLEY'S BIRD OF PREY CENTRE
Huxley’s Bird of Prey Centre has been established in Horsham for more than 30 years, yet remains a hidden gem for many. Three years after the passing of its founder Julian Ford, the centre is now writing a new chapter with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. However, as AAH discovered, Huxley’s needs more public support if it’s to successfully navigate the challenges of winter. Full story here.
Apache Menswear occupied a unit in Horsham's Bishopric for more than 30 years. We caught up with owner Stuart Gordon at Apache’s new home in Partridge Green. Full story here.
An emporium of arts, crafts and unique gifts has opened on Billingshurst High Street. Rocking Horse has been a fixture in the village for some time, previously selling furniture, antiques and plants. However, the shop is now under new management and showcases the work of more than 30 small businesses. Full story here.
Tyson London is a decorative lighting and bespoke furniture specialist based in Horsham. Thanks to its incredible array of handcrafted pieces, the company works with some of the world’s leading interior designers. AAH met founder Tyson Bennison to find out more…
The Pawfect Day is a Horsham-based business offering ‘a home away from home’ daycare and boarding service for dogs. The business recently opened The Pawfect Pool, giving owners and their pets the chance for a safe swim. Full story here.
South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding has opened The Reeds, comprising eight lakeside lodges set around the fringes of a wild swimming lake. For full report, click here.
The Glynde Place Dance Studio in Horsham celebrated its 40th anniversary with a show at the Hawth Theatre, Crawley in July. AAH was there to meet founder Heather Owens and long-serving teacher Lisa Livett to find out more about the studio. Full Story here.
Catherine’s Originals is a start-up that offers a classic chocolate selection box for vegans. Ambitious owners Catherine Dodd and Jamie Miller have established their own factory near Arundel, but their dream of making plant-based chocolates has been far from plain sailing, as AAH discovered. For full story click here.
The Company in Middle Street, Horsham has celebrated its 20th anniversary. The independent hairdressing salon is renowned not only for its experienced stylists and colourists, but also for its commitment to training initiatives. AAH met some of the key members of the team.
Creative toy specialists Whirligig Toys opened a new store in Horsham’s Carfax on Saturday 25 May 2024. It is the sixth store opened by Whirligig since the business was founded in Brighton in 2012. Full story here
Meadows Wellbeing in Billingshurst brings together expert health professionals offering a wide range of osteopathic, complementary and alternative treatments and therapies. AAH visited to find out more. Full story here.
Specsavers in Horsham has moved to a new store in Bishop’s Weald House in the heart of the town centre, three times larger than the previous store. Full story here.
SLK AQUA YOGA
SLK Aqua Yoga hosts a wide range of classes at swimming pools across West and East Sussex. AAH visited an Aqua Yoga session to find out more. Full story here.
THE STEYNING BOOKSHOP
The Steyning Bookshop was founded by Sara and Robin Bowers in 1984, with 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of the independent retailer. Full story here.
René Fay was only a teenager when she set off from her home town of Orsa, Sweden on an intrepid European tour, riding a yellow bicycle. Since then, René has lived all over the world and is now settled in Horsham, where she owns Johansson’s Café in the Bishopric. Full story here.
Horsham-based telecommunications company Metricell made national headlines after launching a new smartphone application in January. Stan the App aims to make it easier to identify and report potholes, hopefully leading to improved road maintenance and repairs. Full story here.
Storytellers recently completed its first term, offering classes combining acting, dancing, singing and music to children aged four to 12. AAH spoke to Jonny and Nicola Pike about their new venture. Full story here.
BEESWAX ANTIQUE RESTORATIONS
Joseph Barr learned the basics of furniture restoration from his father while growing up in Cyprus. Now, he runs his own Horsham-based business, Beeswax Antique Restorers. Full story here.
At Trenchmore Farm in Cowfold, the Knowles family supplies Sussex Wagyu beef as well as its popular Silly Moo cider. Full story here.
DIY ALCOVE CABINETS
DIY Alcove Cabinets, a family-run business based in Rudgwick, was among the winners of the Ideal Home Awards 2023. AAH visited the workshop and met Managing Director John Graham about the company’s recent success. Full story here.
WOOL SHRED IN HORSHAM
Fliss Lewis first became interesting in keeping sheep after attending a course in Devon. Her passion has since inspired a business, Wool Shred, which offers a range of products aimed at keen gardeners. Here, Horsham-based entrepreneur Fliss describes her journey so far…
BEE COSMETICS IN HORSHAM
Bee Cosmetics was founded by a Horsham family of beekeepers. Their award-winning range of face, body and spa products utilise beeswax, honey and propolis sourced from local hives to protect and soothe the skin. Full story here.
SEOFON BUSINESS SERVICES LTD, HORSHAM
Seofon has evolved from a small start-up run from the dining room table, to a leading provider of services to small businesses and organisations in Horsham. Director Chris Cooper has also become well-known for fundraising for good causes. Here, he describes his business journey...
HOME COUNTIES POOLS & HOT TUBS
Home Counties Pools and Hot Tubs is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The business, based at Hillier Garden Centre on Brighton Road, Horsham, first established its reputation by installing Cascade pools, before broadening its appeal by offering hot tubs and innovative pool concepts. Full story here.
BRØD + WOLF IN HORSHAM
Brød + Wolf is one of Horsham town’s most exciting new businesses. Since opening in the Carfax in November 2022, the café and organic bakery has expanded, hosting wine evenings and supper clubse. AAH spoke to owner India De Silva to find out more. Full interview here...
RED RIVER SOFTWARE, HORSHAM
Horsham-based Red River Software celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2023. The innovative business creates its own digital platforms to help clients from an array of industries meet the technological demands of modern life. AAH met co-founders Simon Pringle and Kieren Johnstone to find out more…
BRICK BUS, HORSHAM
Steve Goodwin is well-known in Horsham thanks to the superhero parties he has hosted for almost a decade. More recently, the father-of-two has created a magnificent Brick Bus, hosting fun, LEGO-themed workshops to inspire children’s creativity and imagination. Here, Steve tells his story...
COCOA LOCO, HORSHAM
In 2005, Sarah Payne turned her passion for making brownies into a business. She founded Cocoa Loco, with a focus on organic, Fairtrade chocolate. It wasn’t long before the fledgling company outgrew the kitchen of the Payne family’s Partridge Green home. For full story click here.
WILLIAM SUGG & CO
You may not know the name William Sugg & Co, but you’ll be familiar with their product. For 175 years, the company has been a leader in the supply and installation of heritage lighting. Full story here.
AT HOME ESTATE AGENTS
At Home Estate Agency enjoyed a remarkable 2022, opening new branches in the Carfax and Storrington whilst undertaking a rebrand. AAH met Founder Paul Davies and Managing Director Nicky Austin as the ambitious firm looks to build on its early success. Full story here.
AMY SINCLAIR DESIGNS
Amy Sinclair, a young artist from Mannings Heath. As well as drawing wildlife in a fine art style, Amy makes silk scarves that incorporate her art. Read the full story here
KIMMY B CANDLES
KimmyB is a Horsham-based business specialising in hand-crafted candles and diffusers. Founder Kim Billings hopes her signature scents and stylish packaging will help the company make a leap forward. Here, Kim describes her journey so far…
KIMBERLEY LOUISE
Kimberley Louise is an award-winning make-up business based in Horsham. Founded in 2016 by Kim Wachnianin, the business has gone from strength to strength by using make-up to complement natural beauty. Full story here.
CUCKOO BOUTIQUE
Cuckoo is an independent women’s fashion store in Horsham’s Carfax. Despite having been founded while the nation was recovering from the pandemic and at a time when high street shops are increasingly impacted by online retailers, owner Jaishree Parbat has enjoyed a successful first year. AAH met Jai to find out more...
MULBERRY BUSH IN SLINFOLD
Mulberry Bush sells traditional and innovative toys, gifts and games for children. The Slinfold-based business, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, has despatched more than two million toys across the years. For the full story click here
PETER CHRISTIAN
Based on the Star Road Industrial Estate in Partridge Green, Peter Christian is a growing brand in the world of online men’s fashion. Founded by Nicholas Alderton (known as Lord Trousers) and wife Miranda, the business is now making waves across the pond. Full story here
BLAKER WELDING
No two days are the same at Blaker, a specialist welding company in Adversane, near Billingshurst. For more than a century, it has been renowned for repairing and fabricating parts for just about anything that moves, from steam engines to Spitfires. For full article click here
VILLAGE NURSERIES
Tucked away along a rural lane in West Chiltington, Village Nurseries is truly a family-run business. It has been run for 26 years by Peter Manfield, ably assisted by sister Carol and mum Sheila. Carol’s husband Nigel Barber works there too, as do daughters Sally Primmett and Lindsey Barber. For full article click here
CERES POWER IN HORSHAM
a unique fuel cell developed by Ceres Power could play an important role in the fight against climate change. For full article click here
THE REAL PRESS IN STEYNING
The Real Press was launched in 2015. Since then, the small publishing house has found its niche in historical-based books. For full article, click here
THE SKIERS LOUNGE AND BICYCLE BARN
It’s been a long, hard road back to business for Scott Hargraves. Following the closure five years ago of Edge & Wax and Bliss Bikes in Partridge Green, Scott is back fixing bikes and skis, this time from a small barn on the Knepp Estate in West Grinstead. For full story, click here
DAMA DESIGNS
Since turning 60 during lockdown, Ayo Daramola-Martin has created a new company to sell his beautifully-crafted and eye-catching range of furniture and homeware. After a productive summer spent mostly in his Ifold workshop, Ayo hopes his unique products will resonate with discerning buyers. For full article click here
UP & RUNNING IN HORSHAM
Mike De Frateschi established Up and Running in East Street back in 2002. Thanks to its remarkable customer service, the specialist shoe shop continues to prosper. For full article click here
WEST GRINSTEAD SWIMMING ACADEMY
Swimmers of all ages can now benefit from the modern facilities at West Grinstead Swimming Academy For full article click here.
SILVERTIP FILMS AND HORSHAM FILM FESTIVAL
The Horsham Film Festival was held for the second successive year at The Capitol Theatre in February. The festival is organised by production company Silvertip Films. For full article click here
LA VIDA BOUTIQUE
La Vida Boutique celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Throughout that time, the leading women’s fashion outlet has been in Horsham town centre. For full article click here.
BIG PLANT NURSERY
For 20 years, the aptly-named Big Plant Nursery in Ashington has been known for its eye for the exotic. For full story, click here
R.RHODES & SON, BILLINGSHURST
2019 marks 100 years since his great grandfather, Raymond Henry Rhodes, established R.Rhodes and Son in Billingshurst. For full article click here.
CRAFT HOUSE COFFEE
Tom Osborne, owner of Craft House Coffee in Henfield, on how to produce a perfect cup of coffee. Read the full article here
EVERYMAN CINEMA OPENS
As Everyman opens in Piries Place, we meet Venue Manager Rebecca Drees to find out why the cinema’s arrival is causing such a stir. For full article, click here
NAFISI STUDIO IN PLUMMERS PLAIN
From a workshop in tranquil Plummers Plain, Abdollah and Kate Nafisi use traditional tools to create unique pieces of furniture. For the full article click here
SPRING GARDENS NURSERY IN WASHIINGTON
Spring Gardens Nursery has run as a pick-your-own site for many years. Now, a new generation are taking the farm to new heights. For the full article click here
KJF CLOTHING
Kim Fentiman designs a range of colourful children’s clothes at her Horsham home. With an admirable approach to running the business ethically, KJF Clothing is attracting customers for many reasons. For full story, click here
HORSHAM FORGE
Horsham Forge initially operated as conventional fabricators and repairers. Recently, the business has been creating unique furniture and lighting to broaden its customer base For full article click here
WAKEFIELDS JEWELLERS, HORSHAM
Wakefields is a name synonymous with Horsham, having been founded in 1911. Yet itremains a family-run business, owned and managed by the great-grandchildren of its founder. For full article click here
IRINESS YOGA & WELLBEING
Irina Pashkevich nurtures the mind, body and soul at Iriness Yoga & WellBeing in Horsham. For the full article click here
Gobsmack Comics was established by Drew Dewsall in 2014 and for two years the store has been in Swan Walk. Click here.
LITTLE NOTES
Mark Bradbury - who founded the company with wife Lou - explains why so many families are making a big song and dance out of Little Notes. Read the article here
SUMMERS PLACE AUCTIONS
A family of four mammoths discovered in 2002 will be the headline-grabbing lot at a fascinating auction at Summers Place. Full article here
JACK DUNCKLEY'S PLANT NURSERY
Jack's plant nursery has everything an enthusiastic gardener would hope and expect to find, from small plants to feature tree, as well as a lovely cafe run by Alimento. Click here
TAKE ONE PRODUCTIONS IN HORSHAM
Take One Productions, a digital creative agency based in Horsham, is embracing new Virtual technology to create 3D tours. For full article click here
TRAFALGAR CLEANING
Trafalgar Cleaning Equipment's innovative machines help clean roads, streets, parks and gardens all over Europe, whilst a successful association with Karcher ensures that the company a full range of cleaning products. Full article here
THE YOGA GARDEN
Nina Fowkes didn’t feel right practicing yoga in the village hall, so in 2009 established The Yoga Garden in her own back garden. Read the article here
The Burrell family, who live at Knepp Castle, has created a small campsite on a wild meadow at the southern end of the estate. Click here.
LUCIBELLE TIARAS
Lucy Stevens has built up a dood home-based business by creating beautiful tiaras for weddings and special occasions.. Read the article at https://aahorsham.co.uk/content/lucibelle
KEEPERS KENNELS IN LOWER BEEDING
The family-run business has recently exanded its service, with dog walking and a grooming parlour being offered at the scenic site near Leonardslee Gardens. Read the full article at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/keepers
LEATHERMARK69 in COOLHAM
We meet Mark Peckham, who has established his leather tooling business, within a custom bike workshop in Coolham. Full story at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/leathermark69
VIRTUAL FLIGHT CENTRE, COOLHAM
The Virtual Flight Centre at Thornhill Court, just off the A27 in Coolham, was formed in 2006 with only one simulator, a Boeing 737, but over the years they have added light aircraft and two Typhoon jets.. Read the article at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/virtualcentre
ABSOLUTE FRUITCAKE IN THAKEHAM
Sara has been baking cupcakes and celebration cakes from her home for several years. But last summer, she thought she would try to create something different. Read the article at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/fruitcake
KIDS LIKE US
Kids Like Us provide breakfast and after school care for children at three schools in Southwater and Horsham. Read the full article at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/kidslikeus
CARE CHARTS UK IN HORSHAM
Simple 'Remember I'm Me' charts, now found in 650 care homes across the country, are the brainchild of Zoe Harris, founder of Care Charts UK. Read the full story at https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/carecharts
TAYLOR MADE UNIFORMS IN HORSHAM
It all started with a small order at just one local primary school, but now Taylor Made Uniforms supplies thousands of children with school uniform in the area. To read full story see https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/taylormade
HORSHAM CARRIAGE OCCASIONS IN COPSALE
Michaela Hartland is developing his skills as a coachman, offering traditional carraige rides for weddings and special occasions in the Horsham area. Visit https://www.aahorsham.co.uk/content/carriages for more details...
LOST IN THE LOFT
Vic Chase uses broadcast-level equipment to bring your old VHS and Cinefilm memories back to life in a DVD format. Click here for More
SOUTH LODGE HOTEL IN LOWER BEEDING
South Lodge owes its existence to beer. It was built in 1883 by Frederick Du Cane Godman, who had inherited a fortune through the family connection to the Whitbread and Co brewing company. Click here for More
FISHERS FARM PARK IN WISBOROUGH GREEN
From humble beginnings, Trina and Tim Rollings managed to build a small animal trail up to become a leading tourist attraction in West Sussex Click here for More
SERVING UP A PROPER COFFEE
For a drink that is enjoyed so frequently by so many of us, we know remarkably little about coffee.Coffee Real are here to educate us all! Click here for More
BANGERS GALORE IN HORSHAM
It’s harder than you think to make the perfect sausage. Master it and perhaps you too have the potential to be National Sausage Making Champion. Click here for More
BOLNEY WINE ESTATE
After 40 years, Bolney Wine Estate has become an award-winning vineyard and has helped transform the preception of English wines. Click here for More
HARRIS BROS FUNFAIR IN ASHINGTON
The Harris brothers are part of the furniture in Ashington. The family has lived in the village for generations, and for all of that time they’ve been synonymous with funfairs. Click here for More
RAYLANDS COUNTRY PARK IN SOUTHWATER
As well as the business headquarters on Worthing Road, the family-run Roundstone Caravans operates Raylands Country Park in the peaceful surroundings of Jackrells Lane near Southwater. Click here for More
NEW HOUSE FARM IN HORSHAM
Max Walton, a fourth generation farmer, devotes most of the farm’s 900 acres to arable farming, producing milling wheat, milling oats, oilseed rape, beans and linseed which is exported all over the world. Click here for More
HD REVOLUTION AT HORSHAM HEARING CENTRES
Thanks to huge advancements in technology, hearing aids are also available with high definition sound quality. Click here for More
ABM BUILDING SERVICES: THE EXPERTS
If you have plans to extend your home and better utilise the space available, ABM Building Services can ensure your vision is realised. Click here for More
THERMCO: AT THE HEART OF SOLAR
The concept of solar power is relatively simple; sunlight is converted into electricity through photovoltaics. But Thermco in Washington proves there is a bit more to it than that! Click here for More
MR SIMMS OLDE SWEETE SHOP
The most enjoyable aspect of Mr Simms Old Sweet Shoppe is, supposedly, its devotion to recreating the sweet shops of old.But in truth, none of us ever had a sweet shop as good as this. Click here for More
ICA ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Solar Power is an increasingly popular choice for people willing to invest in renewable energy and ICA as you can make money by selling back excess energy. Click here for More
KISSINGATE BREWERY
Kissingate may be the district’s smallest brewery, but it is one that’s punching above its weight from its small unit off Church Lane in Lower Beeding.Click here for More
