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Friday, 30 October 2009

Making Waves on Broadway & Jazz & Soul on Broadway

We are writing to seek your support as the future of the two Broadway concerts is uncertain.  A hearing is being held on Wednesday 4th November when Mid Sussex District Council may decide not to grant a licence for the events planned for 2010 (30th May & 29th August). 

The Broadway concerts have attracted an enthusiastic audience of all ages from the local community and, since 2007, thousands have attended the events, enjoying first class music from classical to pop in a street party atmosphere, many of the performing artists from local talent.

If you have enjoyed any of these fantastic days, to guarantee their survival, please write saying how much you have enjoyed yourselves and would like them to continue by emailing licensing@midsussex.gov.uk for the attention of Mr Paul Thornton Senior Licensing Officer or writing to Mr Paul Thornton, Senior Licensing Officer, Mid Sussex District Council, Oaklands, Oaklands Road, Haywards Heath, W Sussex RH16 1SS, please copy us in so we can measure the level of support.

All emails and letters need to reach Mr Thornton by the morning of Wednesday 4th November, prior to the hearing which is being held at the Council Chamber, Mid Sussex District Council Wednesday 4th November at 6.00pm.  If you would like to attend the hearing in the public gallery please contact us. 

With best wishes.

Tim & Sarah

Sussex Young Chef of the Year cook off

Four young Sussex chefs in Sussex have been shortlisted for the hotly contended Sussex Young Chef of the Year ‘cook off’, sponsored by Train to Gain, as part of the Sussex Food & Drink Awards 2009/10.
 
They are Oliver Darby at Temptation, Gardner Street, Brighton; Peter Martin at The Tin Drum, Victoria Grove, Second Avenue, Hove; Dan Hockaday at The Coach and Horses, School Lane, Danehill, West Sussex; and Bradley Jordan at The Cowdray Pub and Dining, London Road, Balcombe, West Sussex.

The four shortlisted chefs have been selected by public vote and will now have to submit a menu plan based on local and seasonal ingredients and compete in a ‘cook off’ hosted by City College Brighton & Hove on 6th November and judged by an expert panel chaired by Clive Beddall OBE, Chairman of the Sussex Food & Drink Awards.

Oliver Darby at Temptation, Gardner Street, Brighton, is 21 and has been at Temptation since it opened just a few months ago. Peter Allinson, the owner said: “Oliver has a great awareness of food, flavours and combinations. I recruited him from his NVQ course and he has helped me produce our fabulous menu.”

Dan Hockaday at The Coach and Horses, School Lane, Danehill, West Sussex, is 24 and is a completely self-taught chef who works full-time and has been at the restaurant for one and a half years. Lee Cobb, head chef, said: “Dan is the most competent young chef I have worked with. I think great things can happen for him and I wish I was as good as him when I was his age.”

Bradley Jordan who was voted for whilst working at The Cowdray Pub and Dining, London Road, Balcombe, has recently moved to the famous South Lodge Hotel in Lower Beeding, West Sussex. Aged 22, he has just started his NVQ Level 3 at Crawley College. His former employer Alex Owen, who owns The Cowdray Pub, said: “Bradley is a keen and hardworking chef.”

Peter Martin at The Tin Drum, Victoria Grove, Second Avenue, Hove is 25 and started working at the restaurant in September and was promoted to head chef just one month later. Dave Radtke, owner, said: “The whole Tin Drum team is very proud that Peter has been nominated for this award, it is well deserved. We’ll be cheering him on the whole way!"

Said Clive Beddall OBE:  “Young chefs are the future of Sussex eating and the quality and standard of our shortlist this year emphasises - in the most positive way - how important their contribution is to helping Sussex move ahead of other counties in terms of quality eating out.”

Other awards include best Sussex eating experience, food producer, drink producer, farmer, food shop, butcher and farmers market and finalists will be announced next month. The winners will receive their awards at the ‘Sussex foodie event of the year’ – the Sussex Food & Drink Awards dinner held at the East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa in January 2010.

"After The Fire" headline at Burgess Hill benefit gig

Reformed prog rock/new wave band After The Fire (“ATF”) which toured with Queen, ELO and Van Halen in the 1980s headline at a benefit gig for Fairtrade and Stop The Traffik at the Martlets Hall in Burgess Hill on Sunday 22nd November. The band was signed to the CBS label and had a number of charting singles in its short history but in that time it developed a loyal fan base that was attracted to both its sound and its willingness to embrace social causes.

Two of the original band members are still in the line up (Peter “Memory” Banks and John Russell) and they are now joined by impressive singer/songwriter Rob Halligan as lead vocalist. Rob said that:
“It's great to be touring with After The Fire. ATF are a band with a huge history but these shows are more than just a trip down memory lane. It's up to date edgy rock music that's as relevant today as it ever was and the gigs themselves are an amazing experience for the audience and the band.”

In 2005 the band reworked and released chart hit ,One Rule, for the Trade Justice movement . A feature of the band is its continuing support for developing communities and the Fairtrade movement. “Having a top flight band supporting the work of Fairtrade in Burgess Hill is a real coup and will be a great way of getting the Fairtrade message across in the town, said Robert Eggleston, Chairman of Burgess Hill’s Fairtrade Town Group. We have an excellent evening lined up with After The Fire and also with our own Julie Hall opening the event. This night will help us to build on the status that the town has won as standard bearers for Fairtrade.”

Tickets for the gig are available from the Martlets Booking office on 01444 242888. They cost £12.00 each or £10.00 for 4 people. Doors open on the night at 7.00pm and the gig starts at 7.30pm.

Thursday, 29 October 2009

Hassocks Golf Club raises funds for Chestnut House

Chestnut Tree House, the only children’s hospice in Sussex has received a £7500 donation from the members of Hassocks Golf Club.

After a year’s fundraising activities, culminating in Captain’s Charity Day, a cheque was handed over to Tracy Bowdery Chestnut Tree House Community Fundraiser.

The Sussex charity looks after local children and young people. Sadly, these children with progressive life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses will probably die before they reach adulthood.

Club Captain Martin Range, Seniors Captain Mike Haselip and Ladies Captain Ann Chard led the members in their fund raising efforts.

Martin Range added ‘We loved the opportunity to help local children and their families at Chestnut Tree House and hope that our donation makes a difference.’


Photo (from left to right): Peter Ward (Seniors Captain), Ann Chard (Ladies Captain), Martin Range (Club Captain), Tracy Bowdery (Chestnut Tree House Community Fundraiser), Brian Austin (Honory Secretary)


Broadband discrimination must end

The South Downs Society today launched its campaign to tackle the lamentable provision of broadband internet in the South Downs and has called on Sir Michael Rake, Chairman of British Telecom, to take immediate action.  
 
“Our farms, villages and market town communities are at a serious economic and social disadvantage due to lack of fast broadband computer access to the Internet” said John Songhurst, Chairman of the South Downs Society.
 
He continued: “Businesses and social life in our rural communities are being seriously damaged by the coastal strip conurbation which is ‘sucking out’ economic and social viability and exacerbating commuting. The rural disadvantage can be partly redressed by access to fast broadband, which will support not only existing business and social activities, but also attract new ones.
 
“In the interests of our new South Downs National Park community, the South Downs Society has challenged the Chairman of British Telecom, Sir Michael Rake, to form a partnership with the South Downs Society to roll out fibre optic cable to our rural communities. The Society is delighted to offer our networking skills to marshal the partnership resources for this ‘test’ within the National Park, for extension as a model to other rural areas, if successful.”
Digital signal capacity down the ordinary copper telephone wire is restricted and fades at some 3 miles form the exchange. Fibre optic cable can carry a much larger volume of digital traffic. Many South Downs villages can receive no better than 2 Mbps. Fibre optic cable should allow speeds up to 40 Mbps and beyond.
 
“As the generational values change, it is important to recognise that fast broadband is a 21st century necessity, just as we take the services of water, electricity and telephone for granted today” said John. “HRH the Prince of Wales wrote recently of the ‘broadband deserts’ in our countryside.  A number of our Downland villages along the north scarp of the chalk, as well as in the wooded greensand hills of the Western Weald, receive very poor broadband service.  This must change, and soon.”

Dame Vera Lynn takes a run down to Barnes Green!

The Barnes Green Half Marathon   
Sunday 1st November at 10.30am  

Dame Vera Lynn opens the Barnes Green Marathon!

On Sunday 1st November the beautiful countryside village of Barnes Green in West Sussex will double its population as over 1,500 runners will take part in the 27th Barnes Green Gold Standard Half Marathon (BGHM) and this year a very special guest has been invited to open the race in style, the one and only Dame Vera Lynn.

Runners will be arriving throughout the morning ready to participate in the 13.1 mile course which will take them around the picturesque country lanes. At 10.30am the legendary forces sweetheart, Dame Vera Lynn, will make a guest appearance to officially start the race.

With thousands of pounds being raised for charity each year at the event the BGHM organisers are hoping that 2009 will continue to be a success as this year they have selected the charity, GRACE. GRACE is the gynaecological cancer research charity based at St.Luke’s Cancer Centre within The Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford which supports women all over Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire with gynaecological cancers.

Chairman of the Barnes Green Half Marathon Committee, Vernon Jennings commented: “I am thoroughly looking forward to this year’s half marathon.” He continues: “Organising the race is no easy task and it’s so wonderful to see our local community working together to create such a fantastic event for both the runners and their supporters. I wish every entrant the best of luck.”

Whether you are an avid sports fan taking part in the race or simply want an exciting day out for all the family there really is something for everyone at the Barnes Green Half Marathon. So come and support your local community on Sunday 1st November at 10.30am.

Bonfire Night at Reeves Pantry

Reeves Pantry, Cuckfield will be open on Saturday 7th November, Bonfire Night, until 8.30 p.m. for delicious hot take aways like soup, spicy jacket wedges, or a good old home made hot dog with a choice of sauces.  Or ring and book an early supper between 5-6 p.m. before the fireworks start!  We are next to the Co-op.  Tel 01444 454690

Watch the Veteran Car Run from Reeves Pantry

WE ARE OPEN FOR BREAKFAST


Reeves Pantry will be open for cooked breakfast and brunch FROM 9 A.M. to celebrate the Veteran Car Run.
 
Come and enjoy a leisurely breakfast and keep warm while you watch the cars pass our large windows, or if you would rather be outside where the action is, we will also be serving home made soup, hot drinks and other goodies to take away.
 
Best to book breakfast between 9 - 10 a.m to avoid disappointment. Ring us on 01444 454690 to bag the best seats!

Time:
9.00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Nick Herbert: We must value the countryside

Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert has outlined plans to protect and restore the countryside if his party forms the next Government.
 
In a speech to members of the Campaign to Protect Rural England on Thursday (22 October), the Shadow Environment Secretary said that a holistic approach was required to deal with the challenges posed by development, the need to produce more food and the threat of climate change.
 
Mr Herbert outlined Conservative plans to:
 
  • End the interference of top-down government by abolishing the Infrastructure Planning Commission and regional building targets – which would impose 74,600 houses on West Sussex by 2026 – and restoring decision making about planning to local communities;
  • Protect the Green Belt, which is being lost at a rate of 1,100 hectares a year;
  • Maintain the highest levels of protection for special areas of the countryside including National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty;
  • Enhance the positive role of our countryside by encouraging sustainable local food production, and emphasising the social and health benefits nature provides;
  • Work with farmers and land managers, to reform agri-environment schemes and involve greater co-operation from experts in the voluntary sector;
  • Create wildlife corridors to improve our biodiversity and help wildlife adapt to climate change; and
  • Unlock the value of the services nature provides to us and create a system of conservation credits to encourage investment in wildlife and habitats.

Mr Herbert ended his speech on a positive note, saying: “As Conservatives we believe in the inherent value of conserving things.  We know the importance of securing a good future for successive generations.  We also know that our countryside matters.  
 
“It matters for our health and wellbeing.  It matters for our wildlife.  It matters for food production.  It matters in our response to climate change.  It matters for its intrinsic beauty.  So we value the countryside, as you do.  Our task is to ensure that government, society, communities and individuals value it, too.”
 
CPRE Chief Executive Shaun Spiers commented: “This was a serious and wide-ranging speech about how the Conservatives will approach the countryside if they are successful at the next General Election.  Nick Herbert clearly understands the countryside well, and CPRE members will welcome his defence of Green Belts, of good planning and of the value of the countryside to people in all parts of our country.
 
“The challenge for Mr Herbert, as for all of our political leaders, will be to ensure that this optimistic vision and confidence in our countryside survives in hard economic times.  He will need to fight his corner strongly with colleagues in the Conservatives’ Treasury team, to ensure that protecting the countryside is a top priority for any future Conservative Government, and not a luxury.”

Tuesday, 27 October 2009

Henfield business group BizBN5 told of village project successes




Henfield community achievements came under the microscope at Monday’s meeting of BizBN5, the business networking group.

Tony Jackson and Leo Jago of Henfield Community Partnership told members meeting at The White Hart that in four years they had seen real successes.

These included the purchase of a community mini-bus, the building of a skateboard park (in conjunction with the parish council) and the launch of the anti-plastic bag campaign – plus support for the Greening Henfield Campaign, due for launch in February.

“We are now working to promote Henfield as part of the Hidden Britain campaign to attract visitors to the village,” said Partnership chairman Tony Jackson.

Five local walks leaflets have been published by the Partnership.

“Thirteen out of 19 of our aims and objectives have been achieved,” said Tony. “These include surveys of the needs of the people of Henfield and the surrounding area, including the use of the car parks in the village.”

BizBN5 member Helen Reynolds (www.stylestep.co.uk <http://www.stylestep.co.uk> ), an image consultant, gave an outline of how choosing the right colours, styles and fabrics could change the outlook of an individual and improve the impression they make.

The next meeting of BizBN5 at The White Hart is on Monday November 9 at 6pm. Any business person  welcome. Free entry.
Call Jo Donne on
07743 696649 or e-mail her at temptingsavings@telecomplus.org.uk)


CAPTION: Pictured left to right at The White Hart, Henfield, on Monday: BizBN5 members Tom Griffiths, Alison Gardner, Gillian Goodsman and founder Jo Donne with Henfield Community Partnership member Leo Jago and chairman Tony Jackson with Deborah and Richard Carter


Monday, 26 October 2009

Christmas Carol Concert

Hurstpierpoint Singers

Our Christmas Concert is in Hurstpierpoint Village Centre on Sunday 20th December only, at 2.30pm. The programme will include Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Vaughan Williams and various carols, some for audience participation.
Complimentary wine or juice with mince pies will be served at the end, as is our festive tradition.
New choir members are always welcome, phone Ingolf Kabza on 01273 833727 for more information.

Tickets from The Mint House Hurstpierpoint, Kents in Hassocks, from choir members, or on the door. Adults £9, children £5.

The Windmills Junior School Christmas Fayre

The Windmills Junior School Christmas Fayre
Dale Avenue, Hassocks
Sat 28th Nov 10am-12noon

Admission by donation. Stalls including tombola, toys, games, crafts to make, lucky boxes, Santa’s grotto, silent auction with gifts form local businesses, refreshments and lots more. Come and join in the fun!

Hurstpierpoint Christmas Fair

Please come along to Christmas Shopping at the Hurstpierpoint Christmas Fair.  

I hope your Christmas present list is written as there will be gifts and presents available to suit all ages and pockets.

Crafts; stained glass; paperweights; jewellery; photographic prints; cards; books; pictures; candles; Christmas decorations; scarves; calendars; chutneys; produce; stocking fillers and many more gifts will be available to buy on Friday 27th November from 6.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. and on Saturday 28th November from 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. at Hurstpierpoint Village Centre. Refreshments will also be available through out the event.

Look forward to seeing you at the Fair

Rebecca Hair.

 

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN HENFIELD HIGH STREET





Fun for all the family on December 11

HENFIELD High Street will celebrate the Spirit of Christmas from 4-8pm on Friday December 11.

Musical entertainment outside the Free Church, Father Christmas, charity fund-raising events and a variety of amusements for the children (including fairground rides) will be highlights of the festivities, which start at 4pm.

Santa and his sleigh (courtesy of the BP Guild) will be in Barclays Square and Santa will also have a grotto in the bus shelter.

Other entertainments in Henfield on the Friday evening include singing groups in action outside the Free Church, a barbeque (Henfield Club), hot chestnuts,  mulled wine and mince pies in many shops and various fund-raising stalls for charity.

Many shops will be open with food and drink for visitors. Find out more on the night.

Come and enjoy an evening of dazzling features, under the bright Christmas lights of Henfield.

*If you would like a charity stall call Mike Beardall on 01273 495619

Friday, 23 October 2009

Burgess Hill School First to Visit New Recycling Facility

Pupils from Burgess Hill School for Girls became the first school group to visit the new Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) in Ford last Friday as part of the School’s ‘Girls Go Green’ Week.

The girls are members of school’s Eco Committee which helped Burgess Hill School achieve the national Bronze and Silver Eco Schools Awards last year.  They were welcomed by Viridor, the company which operates the MRF on behalf of the County Council, as well as Derek Whittington, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning.

The visit concluded a challenging week in which the Eco Committee led the whole of the Junior School in environmental themed lessons based on the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) initiative ‘Girls Go Green’ Week.  The Junior School reduced their school dinner waste by almost 40%, walked to school or car-shared for the week, designed birdhouses, took part in eco workshops and even used the school’s recycling waste to create ball gowns.

The MRF, located in Ford near Arundel, is one of the most technologically advanced recycling facilities in the UK and was officially opened in July this year.   The pupils were the first school group to take advantage of the site’s exciting education centre.  They had the opportunity to see state-of-the-art equipment in action; sorting the dry mixed recyclables which are collected from households across West Sussex.

The MRF sorts and separates plastic bottles, metal cans, glass bottles and jars, paper and card, liquid food cartons, and even aluminium foil.  The separated materials are then baled up ready to be transported to reprocessors for manufacturing into new consumer goods and products.

Derek Whittington commented; “I met the pupils from Burgess Hill School for Girls to chat to them about the importance of educating those around them about recycling.  I hope many more schools and groups take advantage of the superb education facilities at the MRF.”

Jen Hake, Education Officer at Viridor said “We arrange visits for school groups aged seven years and above and for any interested adult parties.  There’s no better way to explain what happens to your recycling after it’s been collected than to see it being sorted with your own eyes”.

“As well as learning how the different materials are separated we also place strong emphasis on the importance of recycling and trying to reduce the amount of rubbish produced in the first place.”

To enquire about visiting Ford MRF please email: fordeducation@viridor.co.uk or telephone 01243 642106.

2009 Shortlisted Nominees announced for the Sussex Sports Awards

Friday 13 November, Hilton Brighton Metropole
Hosted by BBC Sports Presenter and Olympic Medalist Steve Parry

The Sussex County Sports Partnership (SCSP) would like to congratulate all the 2009 nominees, reflecting the commitment and dedication they have shown to their sport.

The SCSP received a record breaking number of nominations this year and the standard has been extremely high. The judges have now completed their reviews of all nominee applications and we are delighted to inform you of all the 2009 Shortlisted Nominees!

2009 Shortlisted Nominees are…

Blue Reach Response
Innovation in Sport (Education)

Active Street Games (Hastings Borough Council)
East Grinstead Sports Club
Worthing College Sports Academy
 
Wave Leisure Active & Healthy Workplace Initiative

Nibbles of Worthing LTD
Propellernet (based in Hove)
Wellbeing at Work Project (based in Brighton and Hove)

MKK Sports Active Sussex Professional of the Year

Carrie Reynolds (works for Inspire Leisure in Arun)
Ken Dullaway (Active Street Games Co-ordinator – Hastings)
Teresa Bennett (Filsham Valley School – Hastings)

SkillsActive Coach of the Year

Jackie Wood (Based in Lewes – Disability Sport)
Julie House (Based in Goring - Netball)
Lisa Harrison (Based in Crawley - Judo)
Tim Vail (Based in Sussex - Squash)

University of Brighton Young Coach of the Year

Kim Stenning (Based in Littlehampton – Football)
Matthew Green (Based in Brighton - Cricket)
Oliver Young (Based in SHarpethorne – Judo)

Sussex County FA Volunteer of the Year

Celia Tambeh (Based in St Leonards – Athletics)
Ian Stewart (Based in Bexhill-on-Sea – Disability Sport)
Patricia Taylor (Based in Hastimgs – Football)

Sport England Young Volunteer of the Year

Ben Gerrey (Based in Hove – Cycling)
Hannah Cutress (Based in Poynings – Netball)
Ruby Baverstock (Based in Crawley – Netball)

Midnight Communications Unsung Hero Award

Alan Perkins (Based in Crawley - Cricket)
Ian Stewart (Based in Bexhill-on-Sea – Disability Sport)
Mike Richardson (Based in Brighton – Rugby)

Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP Club of the Year

Brighton and Hove Gymnastics Club
Brighton and Hove Hockey Club
Brighton Cougars Basketball Club

Sussex Life
Team of the Year

Brighton and Hove Special Olympics Team
East Grinstead Hockey CLub and Men’s 1st XI
Glynde and Beddingham Cricket Club

Juice FM Young Team of the Year

Chichester Priory Park Cricket Club (U13 Girls)
Dorothy Stringer High School (Year 9 Girls Basketball Team)
Dorothy Stringer High School (U14 Boys Basketball Team)

West Sussex-Ahead of the Game Disabled Sports Personality of the Year

Liam Beresford (Based in Ringmer – Boccia)
Richard Schabel (Based in East Grinstead - Athletics)
Sascha Kindred (Lived in Cralwey - Swimming)

University of Chichester
Young Sports Personality of the Year

Alex Mills-Barton (Based in Seaford – Sailing)
Benjamin Urban (Based in Hastings – Judo)
Daina Rose (Based in Hastings – Trampolining)
Emily Llewellyn (Based in - Equestrian)
Felix English (Based in Arlington – Cycling)

Freedom Leisure Sports Personality of the Year

Caroline Hoyte (Based in Hove - Athletics )
Gemma Spofforth (Born in Shoreham – Swimming)
Paul William Winter (Based in Brighton - Triathlon)

The Argus Lifetime Achievement Award

WINNER: Jack Wilkinson (Based in Hove)

Runners Up:
Ros Slaughter (Based in Chichester)
Sandra Pamplin (Based in Hastings)

2009 Public Vote…

Following on from last year’s success with over 1000 votes for the Sports Personality and the Young Sports Personality of the Year awards we are opening up the ‘Rix and Key Solicitors Club of the Year’ to the public vote for the very first time!

From Thursday 22 November to Tuesday 3 November, members of the public will be invited to vote for the Sussex ‘Club of the Year’ 2009
 
Cast your vote on our website by filling in our online voting system at http://www.sussexsport.org/run-sport/public-vote/  or call 01273 644153 . Read about the short-listed clubs, Brighton and Hove Gymnastics Club; Brighton and Hove Hockey Club; Brighton Cougars Basketball Club to decide who deserves your vote!

The Awards Evening...

Winners will be announced at our Sussex Sports Awards presentation evening. The awards evening will be hosted by Olympic Medalist and BBC Sport Presenter Steve Parry and Juice FM Radio Sports Presenter, Tony Marks.

With welcome drinks at 7:00pm in the Oxford Suite alongside our Sussex Lucky Mascots, a three-course sit down meal with wine, entertainment including the LEGAT Dancers from St Bede’s School and a fabulous Juice FM Disco from 11pm this evening is a night not to be missed!!

To buy your ticket to attend this glittering event please contact Stephanie Mizon, Events and Communications Officer on 01273 644153 or email smizon@brighton.ac.uk, tickets cost £20 each.

Hurstpierpoint Christmas Evening Trading



Come Christmas shopping in Hurst - Thursday, 3rd December from 5.30pm

CULTURAL OLYMPIAD INSPIRED PROJECT COMES TO MID SUSSEX

Great Gardens of Sussex – four outstanding gardens in the heart of mid-Sussex, is delighted to announce that Goat and Monkey – the innovative young theatre company has been awarded funds to research and develop a theatre and dance narrative that will be performed within the four gardens in 2010/11 as part of the West Sussex ‘Ahead of the Game’ Cultural Programme.
 
The Cultural Olympiad is part of the London 2012 Games and is an opportunity for everyone to participate in and celebrate culture in the UK. The aim of the Cultural Olympiad is to showcase excellence in the arts and heritage by encouraging communities across the country to develop exceptional projects.  West Sussex has planned an award winning cultural programme to celebrate the London 2012 Games.  Great Gardens of Sussex is to play a key role in supporting the commissioning of a new piece of outstanding performance that will enhance visitor appreciation of the extraordinary mid-Sussex gardens.
 
Goat and Monkey will create a site specific performance and has chosen the working title ‘Strangers in a Strange Land’.  Joel Scott, Artistic Director, Goat and Monkey, says, “Our aim is to work alongside experts at each of the gardens, immersing ourselves in the life of the gardens, both past and present.  We will explore characters, histories, myths and stories about the gardens and bind them together. Our performances will be interactive, drawing the audiences physically and emotionally into the narrative and the environment.  We would like our audiences to have a sense of excitement and achievement as if they are on an extraordinary journey. “  
 
The members of Great Gardens of Sussex are Wakehurst, Borde Hill, Nymans, and High Beeches.  The four gardens are close together geographically, being less than 15 minutes apart and they have close historical and botanical ties through family relationships, friendships and their plant collections.  Each of the gardens has an outstanding collection of rare and historical plants – many found in the wild, from around the world by famous, Victorian, plant hunters such as Ernest Wilson and George Forrest.
 
Eleni Clarke of Borde Hill Garden says, “This is an amazing project, we are thrilled to be collaborating with an exciting and ground-breaking young theatre company.  Gardens and gardening are an important part of UK culture and Sussex is particularly lucky to have so many important gardens.  The opportunity to present new and innovative theatre and dance within the magnificent settings of the four gardens is something that we are all looking forward to.”
 
Goat and Monkey was formed in 2003 and is building an outstanding reputation with glowing reviews for past performances in Time Out, the Guardian, Radio 4 Saturday Review and The Daily Telegraph.  “We enjoy delighting and surprising audiences – making full use of the live experience.  The audience is integral to and part of our performance”, says Sally Scott, Co-Artistic Director, Goat and Monkey.
 
 Goat and Monkey has just completed ‘A Little Neck’ at Hampton Court Palace.  ‘A Little Neck’ used the Tudor parts of the Palace in a thrilling site-specific and promenade performance.  Tickets sold out within a couple of days.  The narrative covered the downfall of Anne Boleyn from the time that Henry VIII began to tire of her, and cast his eyes on Jane Seymour.  The audience followed key figures along the corridors, into panelled rooms, the great hall and balconies and out into the courtyards, experiencing high tension, anger, pathos, fear and intrigue.
 
Within the four gardens, Goat and Monkey will have the opportunity to explore lakes, ghylls, dells, wildflower meadows, woodland, the Millennium Seed Bank, champion trees, Italian and rose gardens as well as the life cycles of plants, their dormancy, germination, growth and dispersal. The intention is to leave a lasting legacy in each of the gardens, possibly in the form of a treasure map. Goat and Monkey will also be considering the composition of new music, lighting design, film and visual effects as well as costume, dance and drama.
 
Paul Ackerley, Creative Producer, West Sussex Arts Partnership, says, “Sussex has world famous gardens.  We believe that these will be very special performances and will showcase the values of the Cultural Olympiad perfectly, combining a celebration of the best of our gardens with outstanding theatre and dance.”
 
Funding for the research and development has been awarded by West Sussex Arts Partnership and Arts Council, England.  Work has already begun on the narrative and visitors to the gardens may see members of Goat and Monkey in the gardens during the next few months. A presentation of the outline narrative and performance will be presented in spring 2010.
 
Other projects taking place as part of the Cultural Olympiad in West Sussex include Blue Touch Paper Carnival, the first disability focussed carnival.  Whispering Woods, a large-scale singing project with performances in West Sussex forests and Dromos, the first travelling festival in the country.
 
‘Ahead of the Game’ is the name of the cultural programme that the West Sussex Arts Partnership is organising, inspired by the Cultural Olympiad.  West Sussex Arts Partnership is the council forum for arts across the county.

1st Hurstpierpoint Scout Group ­ 100 years young

On the first two weekends of November, the 1st Hurstpierpoint Scout group will be celebrating it’s centenary,  with a number of exciting events planned to mark this very special occasion.
 
On November 3rd 1909 our local scout group was registered as the 21st Brighton Group, before becoming the 1st Hustpierpoint group shortly after the first world war. This month therefore sees the group celebrating being 100 years young,
 
100 kites for 100 years of scouting

On the Sunday 1st November all current Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts and Explorers are planning a combined kite flying exhibition on top of Wolstonbury Hill at 2 pm. A rendezvous at the summit has been agreed for all current members, with each age group using their navigation and planning skills to reach the top simultaneously. Our aim is to have at least 100 kites flying to celebrate 100 years of scouting in Hurst.
 
Commenting Group Scout Leader Rodney Jackson:
 
“Wolstonbury Hill is a natural focus for many of our group’s activities, and we hope that this spectacle will remind everyone within our community that our scout group is continuing to thrive.”
 
“We currently enjoy a very active membership of over 150 active Beavers, Cubs and Scouts – and with the generous support of all of our leaders, are excited about growing on our success for another 100 years of scouting”.
 
Centenary Reunion

A reunion is also being held for all past and present scouters and friends of the group on Saturday Evening – the 7th November. Starting at 7.00pm this evening will offer the chance to explore the extensive photo archive of the scout group, and an opportunity to meet old acquaintances.

Afternoon Tea and Cakes

To round off the celebrations the scout hut on Brown Twins Lane, Hurstpierpoint, will be hosting an open afternoon, on Sunday 8th whilst serving tea and cakes to all visitors. Everyone is welcome.
 
General Enquiries                                                            Press Enquires
 
Rodney Jackson                                                               Joe Lynch
General Scout Leader                                                      Committee Member
1st Hurstpierpoint Scouts                                                
 
(01273) 834422                                                            Tel 07921 038051
rodneythjackson@btinternet.com                            Joe.lynch@tuiactivity.com

Wednesday, 21 October 2009

Would you walk over hot coals to help a child's future?

The Dame Vera Lynn Trust for Children with Cerebral Palsy is on the look out for brave volunteers.

On Wednesday 4th November, the car park at Ingfield Manor School will be the hottest hang out in town as a twenty foot bed of red hot wooden coals will be laid down in preparation of the Dame Vera Lynn Trust Firewalk 2009 and the charity needs the support of the community.

They are looking for the most courageous and caring people in the area to come forward and volunteer to walk across the coals. The act of bravery is to raise money for the Dame Vera Lynn Trust, School for Parents which through Conductive Education helps parents realise their childs unique qualities and achievements. 

From 7pm – 9pm all the volunteers will undergo an intense training session with the best professionals in the UK before stepping out at 9pm on the dot to take part in the shortest sponsored walk in the world!

Regional Fundraiser at The Dame Vera Lynn Trust, Rosie Wyer, commented: “The firewalk not only gives the participants an amazing feeling of achievement, it is an incredible way of raising money for a worthy cause such as ours.” She continued: “The trust does not receive any statutory funding from the government, therefore we rely on the generous donations from the public and considering our last firewalk raised over £7,000 we are very excited about the amount we could raise this year.”

It’s not just the brave walkers that can enjoy the evening however, as there will be live music, hot food, a bar, raffle and an exciting quiz for the whole family to enjoy.

The trust are hoping for over 30 people to volunteer to take part in the firewalk and help raise vital funds, so those that are interested can visit www.t4c.org.uk/dvlt <http://www.t4c.org.uk/dvlt>  to download an entry form or contact Rosie Wyer on 01403 780444.

A 3D Wikipedia of art

An experiment is underway that could put the world’s art treasures permanently on show in a “Wikipedia” of culture.
University of Brighton researchers are paving the way for sculptures and other works of art to be recorded in a 3D form that is so real that people will be able to see them from every possible angle on their computers.
Viewings would be more comprehensive and detailed than if people were within arm’s reach of the real thing because the technology would enable them to turn objects in every direction.
Professor David Arnold, leading the project, said no longer would missing an exhibition mean the chance of a lifetime was lost, and there would be obvious benefits for those unable to travel to cultural centres because of health or financial reasons: They would have a world of art and culture, including thousands of artefacts in storage because of lack of display space, to enjoy at the click of a mouse.
But he stressed: “The work is still in its infancy.”
The project, funded by the European Community’s Seventh Framework Programme and called 3D-COFORM, ‘Tools and Expertise for 3D Collection Formation’, involves a collaboration of a wealth of researchers including
experts from computer science, the arts and business, drawn from across the university, and 18 other partners.
Their aim is to develop effective methods for 3D documentation and to create a European Virtual Centre of Competence in 3D digitisation involving the university and other members of the 3D-COFORM’s consortium.
Trials have begun at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and at Petworth House, a late 17th-century mansion in West Sussex run by the National Trust and which houses ancient and neo-classical sculptures, fine furniture and carvings by Grinling Gibbons.
The experiments are being conducted on sculptures and other similar works of art, not paintings. Their images are being digitally captured and processed into a 3D record. Over the next three years other sculptures, monuments and artefacts will be recorded using a mixture of tools including digital photogrammetry (remote sensing technology) and laser-scanning tools.
Another method used to capture smaller artefacts involves a portable dome in which the items are placed and photographed under controlled lighting.
Not all objects lend themselves easily to 3D imaging. Jewellery and other items with reflective surfaces, for instance, are difficult to capture. The research will target these situations and improve existing methods.
Researchers in Professor Arnold's previous project (EPOCH) developed a website which permits users to turn pictures into 3D models, allowing the viewer to rotate and examine the artwork from all angles and close up.
Professor Arnold stressed that the day when people can switch on PCs and expect to find the world's treasures in 3D is still a long way off: "We really are right at the beginning of this and when you look at how many visitor centres there are around the world, then you will realise how much work there is involved.
"In Britain, for instance, there are about 10,000 centres while in France there are probably four times as many. The number of cultural venues is huge."
But, he said, the benefits would be profound: "What you see at any given time in a museum is only the tip of the iceberg. There are many more things in storage than on display and all these could be recorded and made available for 3D viewing.
"And if you miss an exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum (a partner in the project), then the items may not be on view again for another 35 years. This is where digital access comes into its own.
"Everything a museum holds could be available and accessible at almost any time. Virtual handling of the objects is a different challenge but with this technology you’ll be able to see details invisible on a visit to the museum.”
Recording and cataloguing items is a massive enterprise but Professor Arnold sees the day when members of the public will themselves be able to assist by uploading their own records to the “Wikipedia of heritage” website. "We are also looking at how we can empower people to do the work on their own heritage."

Photo: Arnold 2 – Statue of Pastoral Apollo being recorded at Petworth House, West Sussex.

Community recycles huge empty shop

The biggest empty shop in a south coast town is going to be used by the local community in the run up to Christmas.
 
A massive shop just off Worthing's Montague Street Precinct which was formerly an Allied Carpets showroom is to be used by fifty local groups, clubs, charities and artists in a project brought together by Worthing Lions Club, supported by national organisation the Empty Shops Network and Worthing Borough Council.
 
The 1200 square feet shop in Buckingham Road, Worthing will be used for six weeks as 'The UpMarket', a market selling vintage, recycled and upcycled goods to support local charities. Already booked up are groups that help people with disabilities, find new homes for unloved animals, look after people with cancer and run home for the elderly.
 
Meanwhile, a wide range of artists and craft-makers will have spaces to exhibit and sell their work. Another area in the shop will be dedicated to community activity, hosting a range of workshops, meetings, talks, poetry performances and more.
 
Finally, for two weeks of the project the warehouse behind the shop will be used for a contemporary art exhibition by the Revolutionary Arts Group, which they promise will be 'a bit of Tate Modern by the sea'.
 
The project has been brought together by Worthing Lions President John Sayles, who spotted the potential of the huge space owned by Worthing Borough Council.
 
'Our ambition is to help as many local groups as possible' he said, 'and this unit lets us carry on the good work of our popular summer seafront market in the busy Christmas shopping period'.
 
He has been helped by the advice of Dan Thompson, Worthing-based founder of the national Empty Shops Network.
 
'This will be one of the biggest empty shops initiatives in the country' says Dan, 'and it's great that it is happening in Worthing in the same week that the town hosted the first ever Empty Shops Conference.'
 
The UpMarket will be open Wedneday-Saturday from 11th November until Christmas. For more information about the project visit www.artistsandmakers.com <http://www.artistsandmakers.com/> and to find out about Worthing Lions visit http://worthinglionsuk.lionwap.org/ <http://worthinglionsuk.lionwap.org/>

Tuesday, 20 October 2009

Ben Fogle celebrates Newest National Park

Broadcaster, adventurer and President of the Campaign for National Parks, Ben Fogle walked with two hundred people on Saturday 17 October to celebrate the South Downs becoming a National Park.   
Ben said: “Congratulations to everyone who campaigned so hard and for so long for the South Downs to be designated a National Park.  I grew up not far from here and I have many special memories of this area.  It is wonderful that it will at long last get the protection it deserves. “
John Songhurst, Chairman of the South Downs Society, said “We are delighted that Ben has joined us for this very special celebration.  The South Downs Society has been working for the protection of the Downs since 1923, and it is tremendous that the area is now to be protected as a National Park.”
Ben Fogle was joined by members of the public, supporters of the Campaign for National Parks, the South Downs Society, and many others who have campaigned so hard to secure the South Downs’ protection as a National Park.  

South Downs Society Registered office: 2 Swan Court, Station Road, Pulborough, RH20 1RL.  Registered charity number 230329.  www.southdownssociety.org.uk <http://www.southdownssociety.org.uk/>


Photos: South Downs Joint Committee/Anne Purkiss
  

Sussex Businesspeople Shortlisted for Sussex Business Awards

The remaining finalists for the Sussex Business Awards 2009/10 have been announced.
The Sussex Businessperson of the Year list includes Rod Flavell, Chief Executive of FDM Group, whose company is already shortlisted for Company of the Year and International Business of the Year.
Penina Shepherd, managing director of the hugely successful commercial solicitors, Acumen Business Law, also makes the grade. Her company is shortlisted for Innovation and Best Customer Service.
Mark Woolley of Electric Hairdressing makes the lists for both Entrepreneur of the Year and Businessperson of the Year. Mark is winner of numerous industry awards and was recently the runner up for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Brighton and Hove Business Awards.
A high-powered judging panel made up of a select group of some of the region's most prominent business figures chose the finalists following a rigorous judging process.
Commenting on the shortlist Malcolm Diamond, chairman of the judges, said: "The decision was extremely tough with so many fantastic businesspeople making waves in the Sussex.
"Demonstrating immense passion and innovation in a diverse range of industries, our finalists are the future ambassadors of local business. They are making an impact locally, nationally and internationally in areas including customer service, employee welfare, technology and marketing."
The winners will be announced at the Award ceremony to be held at the Grand Hotel, Brighton on Friday 6 November.
The full list is as follows:
Sussex Businessperson of the Year
Rod Flavell, FDM Group plc
Susan Fleet, Lea Graham Associates
Holly Heggadon, Sparks Yard
Penina Shepherd, Acumen Business Law
Mark Woolley, Electric Hairdressing
Sussex Entrepreneur of the Year
Paul Craig, Absolute Brighton
Mark Woolley, Electric Hairdressing
For more information or press ready images, please contact:
Fiona Graves / Nicola Merrifield
Midnight Communications
Tel: 01273 666 200
Email: sussex@midnight.co.uk

Monday, 19 October 2009

Haywards Heath drainage improvements start next week

Drainage improvements in Rose Cottage Lane off the B2114 Cuckfield Road, Staplefield, will start from Monday October 26. The West Sussex County Council scheme will involve installing new pipes and gullies to absorb excess surface water.

Part of Rose Cottage Lane, nearer to Cuckfield Road, will be closed for up to two weeks during the scheme. Residents will have pedestrian and vehicle access to the road at all times.

A signed diversion route will be in place via Cuckfield Road, Brantridge Lane and then back onto Rose Cottage Lane.

The scheme is scheduled to take up to four weeks to complete, weather permitting. It will be carried out Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 5pm, and on Saturdays from 7.30am to 1pm.

Pete Waterman at the Bluebell Railway

A very special visitor will be at the Bluebell Railway during their annual Steam Gala this next weekend.

On Saturday, 24th October pop mogul and railway enthusiast, Pete Waterman will be signing copies of his new book 'Just Like the Real Thing'.

This will take place in the bookshop at Sheffield Park Station between 10.30 am & 11.30 am and 2.p.m. to 4.p.m..

This book is the second one by this author about Model Railways. It is described as a glimpse into Pete Waterman's world of modelling, showing how to build a model railway layout from scratch, including practical tips and hints from the master craftsman himself to inspire and help railway modellers of all ages and abilities.

The book is published by Ian Allan and costs £19.99

For further information please call AVRIL GAYNOR  on 07958 623013 or email to bluebellpress@aol.com

Sayers Common Christmas Market

Sat, 28th November, 10.30am-2.30pm
 
Chistmas Market, Sayers Common Village Hall.
 
As a start to the festive season, the churches of the Benefice of Albourne, Sayers Common and Twineham are holding a Christmas Market in Sayers Common Village Hall opening with Carols sung by the Choir. Lots of stalls including homemade crafts, Christmas decorations, presents, bygones and books. There will also be light lunches and fun for the children. All funds raised going the village Churches & charities. Enquiries to Ian Simmons on 01273 833342.

Mid Sussex Camera Club

The Mid Sussex Camera Club held its 1st monthly photograph competition of the new season last Monday evening (12/10/2009) at the CVS Centre in Burgess Hill.
As usual the event was very well attended on the night and there were plenty of entries to be judged.
There were 2 classes of entry, intermediate and advanced submitting , prints and projected images.
 
Maximum points were awarded to the following members.
 
Prints  (intermediate class)
Margaret Edwards-Poppy Fields
Brian Bully-Midnight Sun, Brian Bully-Brief Encounter
Neil Leighton-The Giant Fork,Neil Leighton-The West Pier
 
Prints (advanced class)
Alec Pelham-Mock Bridge Over the Adur at Shermanbury, Alec Pelham-Flying My Kite
Bryan Roberts-Lofoten Rocks, Bryan Roberts, Laura
Keith Brooks-Balloon Shadows

Projected Images (intermediate)
Jim Hunter-Looking for a light Landing, Ray Leaney-Out of the Weather
Andrew Millard-Right Place Wrong Time, Michael Tagg, Aways Supportive
Neil Leighton, Beach Party

Projected Images (advanced)
Norman Axtell- Sunrise, Jan Roberts-Tang Dynasty Silk Dance
 
Congratulations to all entrants for making the evening such a success.
 
For more information on the Mid Sussex Camera Club please visit our club website at http://www.midsussexcc.org.uk

Friday, 16 October 2009

Hurstpierpoint's Christmas Extravaganza

Following the success of last year's late night shopping and Christmas entertainment, Hurstpierpoint will be running another evening full of festive excitement for all the family. On the 3rd December from 17:30 the shops up and down the High Street will be keeping their doors open late into the evening inviting you in for a huge array of Christmas treats.
 
Santa has agreed another visit from one of his real reindeers and for the first year ever the High Street will be lit up from end to end. There will be a 'panto' fancy dress competition, carol signers, a brass band and plenty of free mulled wine to keep the adults warm!
 
We hope you can join us in celebrating Christmas and supporting your local community. Further information will be released in the run up to the evening so please put the date in the diary and look out for Christmas coming to Hurst.
 
For more information on the evening please contact Paul Harvey on paul@preview.co.uk.

Trek to the North Pole for St Dunstan's


Keymer and Hassock Men's Club

The Club will be staging its next quiz on Saturday October 24th. Kick off will be at 8.30 as usual and the questions will be set by FWB, Big Al and Kezza. Please do your best to support this event. We started very well last month with 10 teams and we'd like to keep that going.
 
Don't forget also, the draw will be made in the raffle of a giant bottle of Famous Grouse. Tickets are available at the bar.
 
Finally, a new TV list is in preparation. You would have had it earlier but the Chair is still struggling to come to terms with the number of times QPR appear to be on the box over the next couple of months.

Wednesday, 14 October 2009

'Careers in Childcare' in Haywards Heath

A special event aimed at people considering a career in childcare, is being held in Haywards Heath on Thursday October 29.

The ‘Careers in Childcare’ event is being hosted by West Sussex County Council’s Early Childhood Service.

The event will also be an opportunity for people new to childcare to find out how they can develop their career.

Pat Arculus, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “These events are designed for people who are interested in this career path to get first-hand information from professional who are already in the industry.”

Topics that will be covered include qualifications, training, bursaries, finding a job in childcare, and volunteering.

The event will be held at Haywards Heath Children and Family Centre, Penn Crescent, Haywards Heath, RH16 3HP.
 
Booking for the event is not necessary, just drop in for a chat between 2pm and 7pm.

For more information call Lorraine Kelly of the Early Childhood Service on 01243 777807.

FW: Danny Fireworks

Sunday 1st November 2009
Family Bonfire & Fireworks - Danny Park, Hurstpierpoint

Get your tickets in advance for the best value.

The 14th Hurst Family Bonfire & Fireworks evening will be celebrated with a bumper display of fireworks from our regular pyrotechnic masters, on Sunday 1st November.
Families are again welcome to share the event to be held in Danny Park, New Way Lane, Hurstpierpoint.  This year the event is being organised by Hurstpierpoint Gymnastics Club with assistance from Birchwood Grove PTA, the Friends of Hassocks Infants School, Hurstpierpoint Parish Council and Oldland Mill Trust. All of these groups will benefit from your support.
The Hassocks will be running their ever popular BBQ, come and enjoy the evening.
 
Take a 'Guy'  to the Best Guy Competition before ten to six and one child will be given free admission.
 
Free parking on site.
 
Food available on site.
 
5.30 pm            Gates open
6.00 pm            Best Guy Competition
6.30 pm            Fireworks Display
6.50 pm            Bonfire lit with all the Guys and the Best Guy on top
 
Advance tickets prices are by far the best value available unchanged at last years prices.
Children Under 3 or with a Guy are free (one Guy gives admittance to one child)
Children or adults £5 on the gate or only £3 in advance
Families including up to two adults and three children £15, but still only £9 in advance.
Advance tickets will be available in Hurstpierpoint from the Minthouse and Pierpoint Pets and in Hassocks from Marchants or the Friends of Hassocks Infants School, and in Burgess Hill from Birchwood Grove PTA.
 
For safety reasons - No private fireworks or sparklers etc.

Good news for mobile traders

It’s good news for mobile shop traders in Hassocks, as South Mid Sussex County Local Committee (CLC) has approved a decision to help them continue working.

At the recent meeting, the CLC approved authorisation for the Mid Sussex Parking Services Team to issue Dispensation Notices to local traders in Keymer Road, Orion Parade, Hassocks.

Dispensation Notices allow a vehicle to park on a yellow line or in a parking bay for a specified period of time.

This will mean traders can continue to work without having to worry about paying parking for their cars.

Peter Griffiths, Chairman of the CLC, said: “It’s important that we are supportive of local trading, and helping the county’s economy in any way we can.

“This decision, after a very successful public consultation including all shops in Hassocks, has come just in time for Christmas, when we hope trading will increase.”

Also at the meeting, the Committee gave grants through the Community Initiative Funding.

These were:

· £500 to St Andrew’s Trust for the Prince Caspian half-term project for 80 children to perform and work backstage. The Trust is based in Burgess Hill to improve the social welfare of the inhabitants of the town.
· £1,000 was given to Mid Sussex Council for Voluntary Services towards an office network upgrade.

To find out more and about future meetings, visit www.talkwithus.westsussex.gov.uk

Art Exhibition

Hurstpierpoint artist Mike Cheetham is holding the first one-man exhibition of his paintings at The Garden Room Café and Gallery, 14, Station Street, Lewes, for one month, commencing Monday October 19th, open from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. every day except Sundays.There should be Approximately 30 paintings on display. and there will be samples of his work in a variety of media, and sizes, and most of it will be in mixed inks, Indian and Acrylic, and based on landscapes. All paintings will be for sale, and prices are much below average, principally because he does all his own framing and glazing.
For further information, please phone him on 01273 835210, or Email cheets@f2s.com. Or see his website: http://www.mike-cheetham.co.uk

Sky Dive

Hi all
 
The weather was CRAP on Sunday, really low cloud.We got up at 6am, got to the airfield at 8am. Did paperwork and a bit of training and then sat around all day in the cafe eating crap! At 4pm the wait was called off and we have rebooked for Sunday 22nd November.
 
I now start saving for 'Everest clining' thermals, as it will be a bit friggin cold.
 
I have just been interviewed by a journalist who is doing a full page feature on me for the Daily Express, she read my article in South Downs Living and my Just Giving site and was 'so inspired' that she contacted me and asked if she could do a feature on my positivity and how I don't let it stop me. Really strange going through things.
 
It is definitely happening I just don't know when! A photographer is coming soon, its daft, just plain old me!
 
Keep you posted and thank you for your support.
 
Susan
xxx

Susan  FitzGibbon
Hair Passion

Salon: 01444 452922   Office: 01444 414555

Hair Passion LLP
36 Franklynn Road  Haywards Heath  West Sussex  RH16 4DF
Members: Susan FitzGibbon  Neil Brewer

Sussex Wildlife Trust Nature Notes

November
As the bang of fireworks and glow of bonfires light up the night sky, birds and mammals fattened themselves up on an assortment of berries and nuts for the winter months ahead. Enjoy Guy Fawkes Night but remember to check bonfires before lighting them as these are often warm and attractive places for hibernating hedgehogs as well as amphibians and reptiles.

Wildlife Watching
Hibernating Hedgehogs
When it gets very cold hedgehogs begin their winter sleep until the following March or April depending on the severity of the winter, but hedgehogs can only successfully hibernate if they have sufficient fat reserves and are fit enough. During hibernation their body temperature drops and their heart beat falls dramatically - from 190 to about 20 beats per minutes. As a common suburban visitor, hedgehogs often make their winter bed in our gardens - under piles of leaves, logs, or in the compost heap. Those seen out late in the year will need extra help - leave out water and suitable food such as cat food.

Flock of Starlings
This month is the start of one of winter's natural highlights – the cloud-like formation of huge numbers of starlings as they congregate at dusk before settling at their roosting site. Starlings are gregarious birds and often feed in flocks during winter. As the afternoon light fades individual flocks unite to make a progressively larger mass of birds that swirls and swoops to their night time roost. One of the most famous places in Sussex to witness their dazzling aerial display is on Brighton seafront as starlings roost on both the Palace and West Pier.


One of the best ways to help wildlife in Sussex is in your own garden or green space.

Gardening Tips
    • Help the birds by hanging bird feeders and filling birdbaths but make sure they are clean and free of ice
    • Try and leave perennials un-cut for as long as possible as they provide food and shelter
    • Create overwintering sites for a range of animals including leaf or log piles for hibernating mammals, reptiles and insects
To find out more about our nature reserves or for any other wildlife queries ring our free hotline - WildCall - on 01273 494777 or alternatively visit the advice pages on our website www.sussexwt.org.uk/wildlife/index.htm <http://www.sussexwt.org.uk/wildlife/index.htm>

Celebrate, don't desecrate

Environmental campaign group, the South Downs Society, today called for the South East Arts Panel to reject a bid from an arts group to construct a huge new earthwork on the top of the Downs near Brighton.
Red Earth has caused a storm of protest by seeking half a million pounds of government arts funding to build an enclosure 33 yards in diameter, surrounded by chalk embankments 6 feet high with gateways carved from wood and stone. The scheme is one of several across the country being considered as a way of celebrating the 2012 Olympics, but South Downs Society Planning Officer Steve Ankers said:
“The chalk escarpment is the iconic landscape of the brand new South Downs National Park and needs to be protected from built development. The area has an incredible history and archaeology which deserves respect and interpretation, which means not digging into it and building over it, to say nothing of the impact on its fauna and flora. We understand this is supposed to be a community project but I don’t get the impression the community wants it – they value the Downs too much. If Red Earth are keen to work with local people to celebrate their history, they need to sit down and talk: let’s find ways of doing that without putting up permanent structures and damaging a special landscape.”

Christmas Carols at Lancing College

Monday, 12 October 2009

Hassocks company set for Awards Glory

The shortlist for the twenty-first Sussex Business Awards 2009/10 has been announced and Hassocks based company Allwoods has been shortlisted for The Small Business of the Year.
 
It joins a list of twenty nine companies across the county who hope to be one of fifteen winning organisations whose names are revealed at the Grand Hotel Brighton on Friday 6 November 2009.  See below for the full list.
 
To celebrate twenty one years of the scheme winners will each receive a fantastic prize.   All finalists will receive a key and, when the winners go on stage to collect their trophy, they will be invited to choose a box at random and open it. Each of the boxes will contain one of a range of prizes already donated by Blanch House, Hugo Morris, The Treatment Rooms, Season's Cafe and The Grand.
 
The judging panel included representatives from Deloitte, Heart FM, Redseven, The Argus, 021 creative, Sussex Life, asb Law, Domestic &General, Veolia Environmental Services, University of Brighton, Kelta HR, The Grand and the Royal Mail. Chairman of the judges, Malcolm Diamond, said: "The quality of all candidates was excellent and represented a truly diverse and vibrant range of successful Sussex companies.  Our finalists proved themselves leaders in their fields and worthy role models of business best practice."
 
Why not join the party? Tickets cost £85 each (plus vat) or £750 for a table of ten.
 
For more information or press ready images, please contact:
Fiona Graves / Nicola Merrifield
Midnight Communications
Tel: 01273 666 200
Email: sussex@midnight.co.uk
- Ends -
 
SUSSEX BUSINESS AWARDS 2009/10 FINALISTS:
 
Sussex Company of the Year
Sponsor: Deloitte
* Drusillas Zoo Park
* FDM Group plc
* Fittleworth Medical Ltd
 
The Small Business Award
Sponsor: Royal Mail
* Access - by Design
* Allwoods
* Electric Hairdressing
 
The International Business of the Year
Sponsor: The Grand Hotel
* Camillin Denny Architects Limited
* FDM Group plc
* HUGHES PUMPS LTD
 
The Award for Leisure & Tourism
Sponsor: Midnight Communications
* Drusillas Zoo Park
* Theatre Royal
* Southern Water
 
The Best New Business of the Year
Sponsor: The Argus
* Crunch.co.uk
* Brighton Body Casting
* Sussex Uniforms
 
The Creative Industries Award
Sponsor: 021 creative
* Brighton Body Casting
* Shoal Creative Ltd
* Southern Water
 
The Business in the Community Award
Sponsor: Sussex Life
* Family Investments
* Passington
* Southern Water
 
The Heatlhiest Workplace Award
Sponsor: West Sussex PCT
* Domestic & General Services Ltd
* Propellernet
* The Sussex County Sports Partnership
 
The Training Award
Sponsor: Kelta HR
* Cathedral Works Organisation (Chichester) Ltd
* Mid Sussex District Council
* Southern Water
 
The Award for the Best Employer in Sussex
Sponsor: asb law
* ADA Technology Services
* FDM Group plc
* Propellernet
 
The Award for the Best Customer Service in Sussex
Sponsor: Domestic & General
* ACUMEN BUSINESS LAW
* Drusillas Zoo Park
* Posture People
 
The Award for the Most Sustainable Business
Sponsor: Veolia Environmental Services
* Brighton & Hove City Council
* Morgan Ashurst plc
* Pureprint Group
 
The Award for Innovation in Business
Sponsor: University of Brighton
* ACUMEN BUSINESS LAW
* Nido Marketing
* Propellernet
 
The Sussex Business Person of the Year
Sponsor: Southern FM / Heart
TO BE ANNOUNCED
 
The Entrepreneur of the Year
Sponsor: Redseven
TO BE ANNOUNCED

Hospice Opens New Wildlife Observation Hide

Enthusiastic staff, volunteers and supporters gathered in St Peter & St James Hospice & Continuing Care Centre’s woodland on Tuesday 6th October to celebrate the formal opening of a new wildlife observation hide, funded by Big Lottery Fund Breathing Places. The new hide, converted for wheelchair access, is thanks to a generous grant of £10,000 received from the Big Lottery Fund last year and is part of a number of improvements to the woodland for the benefit of the community.  
 
Colin Burgess, Chief Executive, formally opened the hide and thanked the Big Lottery Fund and everyone involved in the project. The Mayor of Uckfield, Councillor Len Ashby, also attended the event as well as a group of school children from Wivelsfield School.  Following the formalities, 12 children enjoyed a guided tour and exploration of the woodland with local wildlife expert Reg Lanaway from Plumpton College. The children, especially the boys, enjoyed ‘bug hunting’ and identifying leaves and were not put off by the intermittent downpours!
 
St Peter & St James aims to improve the quality of life of people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. In addition to the 23 bed in-patient unit, which includes 8 Hospice beds, support is provided to a further 170 patients in their own homes and a Day Hospice provides a range of activities and support services for up to 15 patients per day four days a week. The Hospice relies heavily on the generosity of the local community to raise the £4,000 needed every single day to maintain these vital services for people in Lewes, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Uckfield and the surrounding villages. Patients and their relatives benefit from the wonderful rural location of St Peter & St James, set in 28 acres of Sussex countryside, and can enjoy spending precious time together in the beautiful woodland. The new ‘Breathing Place’ will not only benefit patients and relatives but will also help to strengthen links between the Hospice and other community groups and schools.  


Photographs:
Councillor Len Ashby joins children from Wivelsfield School, Hospice staff and volunteers at the grand opening
Councillor Len Ashby, Chief Executive Colin Burgess and children from Wivelsfield School inside the new wildlife observation hide

Sky News Political Editor To Host 'Question Time' For Hospice Support Group

St Peter & St James Hospice’s Newick & Chailey Support Group are hosting ‘Question Time’, chaired by Sky News Political Editor Adam Boulton in Newick Village Hall on Saturday 14th November.

Support Group Chair Glenda Blackaller said: “We all want answers in these difficult times during the run up to a General Election. Come and fire your questions about health, education, energy supplies, climate change, foreign and local affairs at our illustrious panel.”
 
In the hot seat are Norman Baker the Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes and Shadow Secretary of State for Transport; Baroness Julia Cumberlege of Newick who is currently Vice President of the Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives; Charles Hendry Conservative MP for Wealden and Shadow Minister of Energy; Dene Newman who worked with the English Speaking Union for many years and for a well respected legal foundation and who is involved with several local charities and Dr Anthony Seldon, Master of Wellington College, distinguished academic, historian and author of more than 25 books.
 
All proceeds from the evening go towards the vital work of St Peter & St James Hospice. The evening begins at 7.15pm and tickets, priced at £12.50 each, are available from Glenda Blackaller on 01825 722607.

Celebrity Paws proves a nice little earner for Sussex based charity

The UK’s largest feline welfare charity, Cats Protection, which is based in Chelwood Gate, Sussex, has been overwhelmed by the success of this year’s Celebrity Paws auction, which raised a staggering £2,473.58 for unwanted cats and kittens in the UK.
 
This year’s most popular ‘paw prints’ were from singer Alison Goldfrapp, which was sold for £502.00, musical legend Phil Collins, which was sold for £430.00 and Top Gear presenter James May, which was sold for £271.00
 
‘Paw prints’ from Peckham pals Sir David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst, John Challis and Roger Lloyd Pack, who played Del Boy, Rodney, Boycie and Trigger in the popular sitcom Only Fools and Horses managed to raise £262.00 towards the auction.
 
When asked why he had chosen to support the charity, actor John Challis said: “I love cats and I have done a lot of work for charities with a similar cause”
 
“We actually inherited some feral cats on the farm and we decided to take care of them. They were breeding at the time, so we took them to the vets and found homes for their kittens. We weren’t really cat people before that, but I think that cats have a way of finding you. We have one male cat and one female- they both follow us around all of the time”.
 
Now in its third year, Cats Protection’s Celebrity Paws auction raises much needed funds for the charity, which helps over 193,000 cats and kittens every year.  It is a simple and easy way for celebrities to show their support of the work that the charity does. Celebrities were asked to draw around their hand, decorate it in their own unique way, sign it and send it back to Cats Protection.
 
The money raised from this year’s auction will go towards building a state-of-the-art homing centre in Ferndown, Bournemouth. The Homing Centre will work alongside the charity’s volunteer-run branches in the area. With 24 homing pens and an on-site retail area for essentials, Ferndown will only offer cats which are ready to go to a new home – cutting out lengthy waiting times for cat owners to take their new pet home.  It is hoped the Homing Centre will be open for early 2010.
 
Kate Bunting, the charity’s PR Manager, said: “We have had an amazing response to Celebrity Paws this year and we are very grateful to our celebrity supporters for contributing their own special works of art. The lucky winners of the ‘paws’ have got a truly one-of-a-kind item, which I hope they will treasure. The money raised from the auction will certainly support the ongoing work that we do and the exciting plans that we have in the pipeline for 2010.”
 
For more information on the Ferndown Homing Centre Appeal, please visit http://www.cats.org.uk/ferndownappeal/
 
For more information about the charity, or to make a donation to help the charity continue its cat welfare work, please call Cats Protection’s national Helpline on 03000 12 12 12.