St James Church in Ashurst, near my home. Today the parish is widely scattered, the centre is more of a hamlet, and the church is somewhat remote in a back lane. However, certainly up to the 16th century there was a settlement south of it. St James dates from the early 12th century, and like most ancient churches it has had additions and restorations in later times.
The church's vamping horn, dating from 1770, is rare and one of only six to have survived in England, and was adapted for use to lead the church choir. Originally vamping horns were used as megaphones for communication at a distance over one mile and for public address such as fire alarm, parish events and the banns of marriage. The horn is made from tin plate and is about 2ft 7ins long. The original is currently on loan to Steyning Museum, replaced by a replica now on display in the church.