News and advice from around the counties..
When a Lock Is Not the Problem: Understanding Door and Gate Repairs in West Sussex
9 October 2026
A front door that will not lock or a garden gate that refuses to close can appear to have an obvious solution: replace the lock. However, the locking mechanism is not always the underlying cause. Misaligned doors, worn hinges and damaged metalwork can prevent an otherwise working lock from engaging properly. For homeowners in West Sussex, understanding the difference can help when explaining a fault to a tradesperson and deciding what kind of repair to seek. Why doors and gates stop closing properly Locks depend on the surrounding door or gate being correctly positioned. If the moving section no longer lines up with its frame or closing post, the latch or bolt may struggle to engage. On a metal gate, possible causes include a worn hinge, a damaged welded connection or movement in the supporting post. On a household door, the problem may involve hinge alignment, the frame or the
EV Charging at Home: A Practical Guide to Convenience and Cost Savings in 2026
22 June 2026
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic dream, they’re a practical reality for more households than ever in 2026. But the real game changer isn’t just driving electric: it’s the ability to recharge easily at home. In this guide, we’ll break down everything homeowners and potential EV buyers need to know to make home charging simple, safe, and cost-effective. Let’s power up your knowledge (and your EV) together. Understanding Home EV Charging: The Basics Charging an EV at home operates much like topping up a phone or laptop, only with a lot more power. In essence, EVs draw electricity from your home’s electrical system. There are two main charging speeds: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 uses a standard household outlet (typically 120 volts), while Level 2 requires a more robust 240-volt outlet, the kind you’d find for an electric dryer. The key advantage? Home charging means waking
From Plot to Plate: 7 Seasonal Recipes Using Sussex Asparagus And Wild Garlic For Spring 2026
23 April 2026
Spring in Sussex means two things: tender asparagus spears poking through warm soil and the garlicky, lemony sweep of wild garlic carpeting hedgerows. If you grow asparagus in a backyard plot or forag
A Gardener’s Diary: Plant Now For A Stunning Summer Border — 2026 Seasonal Planner
23 April 2026
Late spring is the moment your border either promises a show or leaves you scrambling come July. Planting now — with a clear plan and the right choices — sets you up for continuous colour, texture and
Springtime Sips: 8 Can’t‑Miss Vineyard Tours Opening This Season In Surrey & Sussex (2026 Spring Guide)
23 April 2026
Spring is the season when Surrey’s rolling chalk downs and Sussex’s coastal slopes wake up into their most photogenic selves — and when local vineyards go from winter rest to a buzz of pruning, buddin
Mindfulness And Movement: Outdoor Yoga & Wellness Retreats In Sussex — Your 2026 Guide To Recharging In Nature
23 April 2026
If you’re craving a reset that combines movement, mindfulness and fresh air, Sussex is one of the UK’s best-kept secrets. Rolling Downs, windswept cliffs and quiet woodlands create natural studios whe
Hidden Gems: 5 Quiet Surrey Picnic Spots To Escape The Spring Crowds (2026 Guide)
23 April 2026
Spring pulls everyone outdoors, but you don’t have to jostle for a patch of grass to enjoy a perfect Surrey picnic. This 2026 guide points you to five lesser-known spots where you can spread a blanket
The Best Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks For A Sunny Sussex Weekend (2026): 4 Scenic Routes, Practical Tips & Where To Go
23 April 2026
Bright skies, sea breeze and paws in the sand — a Sussex weekend on the coast is a brilliant way to recharge with your dog. This guide points you to four reliably dog-friendly coastal walks, practical
Family Days Out: The Best Easter Egg Hunts and Farm Visits in Surrey — 2026 Guide To Kid‑Friendly Fun
23 April 2026
Spring in Surrey means rolling green fields, lambs wobbling on their feet and a calendar full of family-friendly events. If you’re planning a memorable day out this Easter, the county’s mix of organis
Spring Wardrobe Refresh: Shop Surrey’s Best Boutiques For Effortless 2026 Style
23 April 2026
Spring is the moment to shake off heavy layers and give your wardrobe a practical, stylish reboot — especially if you live in Surrey, where the weather can flip between crisp mornings and unexpectedly