All posts by Clive Hilton

Crawley Museum BCal Exhibition

The Crawley Museum Is Celebrating British Caledonian Airways (BCal)

The Crawley Museum is delighted to celebrate the story of British Caledonian Airways (BCal), one of the most recognisable names in British aviation and an airline closely linked to the SUSY area, Crawley & Gatwick Airport. Founded in 1961, BCal grew to become the UK’s leading independent airline, connecting Britain with destinations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and North America. For many local people, BCal was not just an airline but a major employer and a proud part of Crawley’s aviation heritage.

Martin Stone from the Crawley Museum joins Clive Hilton on SUSY Sunday Brunch (hear below) to explain how this celebration explores the people, aircraft and identity that made BCal such a fond memory for so many. From its famous Lion Rampant logo and tartan-inspired branding to its reputation for high-quality customer service, BCal left a lasting mark on British aviation before becoming part of British Airways in 1988.

The exhibition has already attracted significant interest and runs till the 28th March and is open Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm at the Crawley Museum.

Rock The Roof, St Nicholas, Charlwood

St Nicholas Church in Charlwood, is roughly 940-950 years old with its oldest parts, including the tower base and north wall, dating to around 1080. Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, it is a Grade 1 listed building featuring 13th century wall paintings and with a roof that needs repair.

Rev. Sue Lepp explained the church is seeking grant funding and events like Rock The Roof are massively appreciated; not only to raise the much needed funds but also to have good community fun, singing and some magic from the very talented Tim. Rock Choir members from across the SUSY area and beyond, gave up their time for free with a packed church joining in!

SUSY Sunday Brunch’s Clive Hilton went along to find out more and briefly spoke to Natasha Graimes (Rock Choir Lead) and Tim Hill (Magician & compere) before listening to their brilliant version of ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’.

Join the Sunday Brunch discussion?

Are you local? opinionated? and caring about our community?

Would you like to join an On Air discussion to understand others viewpoints and to learn along the way?

We are inviting volunteers to join a diverse group, who will meet every two weeks for 1hr to unpack, discuss and explore a few topics that matter to our community. The content will be shared during the next two Sunday Brunch shows 10am-12 and online.

The group is encouraged to propose and vote for the topics to be covered, occasionally with guests joining and to help co-create how this initiative and the format evolves over time, with feedback from our listeners.

I am keen to continue to spotlight charities, local events and social initiatives on Sunday Brunch but also to try this new idea for 2026. Personally, I hope it helps to bring balance, greater objectivity and a respectful understanding to sensitive, emotive topics that really matter to our community!

If you or someone you know would like to hear more, please drop me an email [email protected]

THANK YOU!

Clive Hilton

Handcross Repair Cafe

A brilliant community initiative for people to meet, chat and enjoy refreshments whilst getting their household items fixed and working again! It’s completely FREE and run by volunteers every 3rd Saturday of the month at Handcross Hardware and Craft, High Street, Handcross. RH17 6BL.

Clive Hilton (SUSY Sunday Brunch) went along to find out more. Initially understanding how Repair Cafe got started 2yrs ago from Claudia and Phil, followed by speaking with the packed room with visitors from across the SUSY area getting vacuum cleaners, watches, printers, baby cams, clocks fixed by the brilliant volunteers (magicians) Cliff, Chris and Dimitri – hear more below!

Surrey Choices Redhill Gets Festive!

Victoria Waite, Diego Acosta and the many customers at Surrey Choices share their Crimbo vibe and the inspiring community initiatives led by the dedicated customers with Clive Hilton on SUSY Sunday Brunch (21st Dec).

Listen below to hear more about The Magic Box initiative, Community Fridge and the many activities customers enjoy with the support of Surrey Choices.

Click HERE to navigate to Surrey Choices website.