At The Races - Sussex National Raceday at Plumpton Racecourse

Racegoers can welcome in the New Year with friends and family at Plumpton Racecourse’s At The Races Sussex National Raceday on Sunday 3rd January

The highlight of Plumpton’s richest race meeting of the season is the £20,000 At The Races Sussex National over a marathon three miles five furlongs, a race that can be a stepping-stone for potential Aintree Grand National runners.

A festive atmosphere is guaranteed with mulled wine, mince pies and live music from popular Irish band “The Reel Strings” in the Premier Enclosure.

There is also a tremendous supporting card which is sure to attract many of the UK’s leading trainers and jockeys. These include the £10,000 attheraces.com with Free Timeform Novices Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong, one of the qualifying races for Plumpton’s £60,000 Cheltenham Festival Bonus.

Adult admission tickets start from just £10, senior citizen tickets from £5, and accompanied children under 16 are free. All racegoers receive a free race programme.

Doors open at 11.00am with the first race underway at 12.50pm. Full details can be found at www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk or by calling the Racecourse Office on 01273 890383.

BURGESS HILL AND DISTRICT LIONS CLUB CHRISTMAS FOOD APPEAL

The Food Appeal for 2009 resulted in a record number of 135 hampers being delivered.
We can assure you that they were gratefully received – many thanks to everyone who contributed at Jantons Newsagent in Hurstpierpoint and the Downsview Delicatessen in Hassocks.

Henfield Sloe Night gives TV wine judge a challenge

By Mike Beardall, Oakfield Media:

TV wine expert Charles Metcalfe handed the annual Henfield White Hart trophy for top sloe gin maker to Angela Manuel on Sunday.

Hers was one of 15 entries from the village in the third year of the competition. "It's a great honour to have won on the third attempt," said Angela, who runs a company with husband Andy in Furners Lane, Henfield.

Second prize went to landlord Gyles Culver and joint third winners were Duncan Clough and Lisa Ross-Talbot.

Charles, who judged with his wife, author Kathryn McWhirter, said: "The standard of entries was higher than ever this year with some classic results that made judging very difficult.

"For the first year our decision on the winner was matched by the votes of all those in the contest."

The White Hart competition is organised by Trevor Simmons and wife Jo.

"It was a brilliant evening and the number of entries is increasing each year," said Trevor.

PICTURE CAPTION: L-r: Judge Charles Metcalfe, winner Angela Manuel, third prize-winner Lisa Ross-Talbot and second prizewinner Gyles Culver, landlord of the White Hart, Henfield.


Story and picture here from Sunday night event at the White Hart Henfield.

Hassocks in the snow

Neil Leighton from the Mid Sussex Camera Club couldn’t resist getting out there this morning and sent us these beautiful pictures.

Festival Presentation to New Writers' Group

Margaret Carey, chair of Hurst Festival, presents a creative writing pack to members of the Hurstpierpoint Writing Club.
The club was formed following the Adult Creative Writing Workshop held during Hurst Festival last September.
The pack has been put together by Hurstpierpoint author Chris Sykes who ran the workshop.
Miriam Patrick, who started the group, following the workshop, said that getting together gave people help and added impetus.
The group meets once a month at members’ houses.
If anyone would like more information they can ring Miriam on 01273 832657.

In the picture (l to r) Linda Chase, Miriam Patrick, Mark Cooper and Margaret Carey.

The Festival Committee is already advanced in plans for the Hurst Festival 2010 which will be held from September 18th to October 2nd . For up to date information please look at the Festival website on: www.hurstfestival.org <http://www.hurstfestival.org/> or, even better, become a Friend of the Festival, details are on the website.

’Twas The Night Before Christmas at Burgess Hill School for Girls

’Twas The Night Before Christmas at Burgess Hill School for Girls

A small Father Christmas, a barking dog, some toys that came to life and a number of charming mice all starred in the Infants’ Christmas production at Burgess Hill School for Girls.

‘I was a child in the play and I just wanted to run on to the stage and say my lines at that exact moment, but I knew I had to wait. At last the moment came; we were off!’
Elana Cook, Year 2

The festive production, which was performed to parents, pupils and staff on Friday 4th December, was based on the traditional poem ’Twas The Night Before Christmas written by Clement Clarke Moore which was recited by the children as they acted out each verse.

‘We had been practising for a very long time and when the big moment came I was very excited!’
Ellie Naicker, Year 2

‘I felt a bit scared when it was my turn to speak, but then I was very proud of myself’
Beth Du Preez, Year 2

All the girls wore impressive costumes, which were provided by the pupils themselves and the Junior School staff, and included a large sleigh for Santa and a life size box for the jack-in-a-box.

‘When the reindeer came on I thought they were going to fly!’
Pippa Robson, Year 2

The production also told the Christian story of baby Jesus and featured the traditional shepherds, animals, three kings and many angels who sang Christmas carols throughout the performance.

The performers were pupils from the Reception class to Year 2 and all enjoyed their chance to be a part of the story. They all felt they learned more about performing to an audience.

‘I was nervous when it was the big day, but we got there and everyone clapped loudly at the end’
Niamh Shannon, Year 2

Denziloe Hairdressers, Lindfield, Tel. 01444 484424

Restyling the past by Lisa de Silva

“We make the initial consultation a priority, so we can really understand what individual clients want, and how a particular cut or style will fit into their lifestyle.”

When Joan Denziloe opened her hair salon on the 16th November 1964 in Lindfield, she could never have suspected that her grandaughter Maria would be repeating history on the very same day 45 years later.

But that is exactly what happened and – since 16th November 2009 – the Denziloe name is once again gracing a hair salon at 77 High Street.

Joan ran her salon, Denziloes, for 12 years before deciding to give the handsome Georgian property over to tenants. Her daughter Sonia decided against hairdressing as a career, but took over the letting of the property. So it was left to grandaughter Maria to continue the family business, having inherited Joan’s passion for hairdressing. When the last tenants moved out, Sonia and Maria decided it was time to reopen the salon themselves.

The mother and daughter team have worked hard to give the salon a contemporary look whilst retaining a sense of the past – and what they have achieved is impressive! The salon has wonderful Georgian proportions, with chandeliers, huge silver framed mirrors, white walls and red seating, giving a warm, yet spacious feel. Maria is understandably excited about following in her grandmother’s footsteps. “It’s a very exciting time and it’s been lovely having the support of my mum and my family. I’m really proud of the salon and am looking forward to building the business.”

Maria is passionate about helping her clients to look good all the time, not just when they leave the salon. “We make the initial consultation a priority, so we can really understand what individual clients want, and how a particular cut or style will fit into their lifestyle,” she explains. “There’s no point giving a client a wonderful cut and restyle, if the moment they wash their hair they can’t create the look for themselves. At the end of the day, they’re our advertising; if they don’t look good, we don’t look good.”

This means that at Denziloe clients are shown how to look after and style their own hair, so they can recreate certain looks at home. This training is really appreciated, especially in an economic climate where visits to the hairdresser may not be a financial priority.

The salon uses and stocks the cult US Sebastian range of hair products. These exclusive products have been used on the catwalk and red carpet for years and, whether you’re looking to sculpt, shine or protect your hair, they will always deliver professional results.

Ongoing training is also important; with fashions changing all the time, Denziloe realise how important it is to keep on top of new trends. “If Cheryl Cole or Victoria Beckham decide to try a new style, it definitely has a knock-on effect,” Maria tells me. “People may or may not like what they’ve done, but it gets them talking and thinking about whether or not they could do with a new style.”

Joan herself is delighted that Maria has taken over and is thrilled to see Denziloe revived and ready to design hair for the 21st century.

Denziloe: 77 High Street, Lindfield, West Sussex RH16 2HN
Tel. 01444 484424

HENFIELD DANCE EVENT RAISES FUNDS FOR HART

Almost £1,500 was raised for HART (Henfield Area Response Team) with a dinner dance at the village hall.

Brighton-based band RetrOactive jazz swing band, run by Henfield's Jo Simmons, provided the music for the event which was supported by more than 100 people.

A Brighton and Hove Albion team shirt signed by the players was auctioned for more than £100 and raffle prizes included two mountain bikes.

HART responder and co-ordinator Chris Simmonds said: "This was a brilliant event and everyone was delighted with the evening. We are very grateful for the funds raised which keep responders and their equipment operating in the area."

Emergency responders from Henfield attend life-threatening incidents when called by the ambulance service following 999 calls. The round-the-clock service ensures that most incidents are reached within five minutes by trained responders who carry heart defibrillators.

The service is paid for entirely by public donations and fund-raising events.

HART contact: Tony Anscombe on 01273 495909

Haywards Heath 0524 Mid Sussex Branch RAFA Christmas Party

This year’s Christmas Party was again held at Haywards Heath Town Hall in the upstairs function room, and was attended by 74 branch members and our guest the Town Mayor. As everyone came in they were served a glass of mulled wine or fruit juice. We were then invited to partake of a rather sumptuous buffet produced for us by our honoured secretary Mrs Shirley Gawan. This ‘end of year party’ was also a fitting way to say thank you to all the members who worked so hard to achieve their target and raise over £10,000 for the Association.

At the end of the meal we where then treated to our surprise cabaret act from the Wartime & Swing Duo The Swingtime Sweethearts, two attractive young ladies dressed in 1940s WRAF uniform. A very good performance of their repertoire of hit songs as performed by The Andrews Sisters, Vera Lynn, Anne Shelton, Ella Fitzgerald and Glen Miller was given and thoroughly enjoyed by all – a bit nostalgic for a good many of the audience I suspect. When the ladies had finished their performance they played us a new CD they have just released called Not Forgotten and featuring Vera Lynn. All proceeds from the CD are going to the Not Forgotten Association and The Dame Vera Lynn Trust.

South Downs National Park Authority gains momentum

The South Downs Campaign (SDC), a network of around 160 organisations [1] is welcoming the latest step towards setting up a South Downs National Park Authority.  After Hilary Benn’s confirmation of the South Downs National Park boundary in November this year, on Thursday last week he announced the size and make-up of the new National Park Authority.

He has decided that the new Authority will consist of 27 members and that local authorities would have a majority with 14 members.  There will also be 7 members appointed by the Secretary of State to represent the ‘national interest’ and 6 Parish Council members.  He has stated that he will lay the statutory instrument before Parliament setting up the new authority around the turn of the year.  He has also stressed that he expects the new authority to place a lot of emphasis on community and stakeholder engagement [2].  Hilary Benn also confirmed that once selected to serve on the Park Authority, members are expected to act in the best interests of the Park in its entirety.

Robin Crane, Chair of the SDC, commented: “This is another important step towards setting up a National Park Authority to look after the South Downs.  While Hilary Benn confirmed the boundary of the National Park last month, at that stage he did not say how it was going to be managed.  Now he has made the decision on this, we can move forward.  

“We very much welcome Hilary Benn’s statement that he expects the new authority to engage closely with local communities and stakeholders.  This will be essential if the National Park Authority is going to be successful in protecting and enhancing the South Downs.”

Poynings book launch

A new book titled ‘Poynings Yesterday’ was launched on 8th December at the Royal Oak in Poynings. The event was well attended by local residents, and a lively discussion on the book’s content ensued with many copies being purchased.
The author Carole Hampson who lived in Poynings as a child has produced this book after a period of three years collaboration with Norman Barber and other named residents of Poynings.
The book is available to purchase from the Royal Oak and also Rushfield’s Plant Centre at Poynings.

Christmas spirit fills Henfield High Street

Hundreds of people were in Henfield High Street on Friday night for the annual ‘Spirit of Christmas’ celebration.

Santa’s grotto in the bus shelter, organised by Henfield Youth Club, and the BP Guild sleigh in the village centre were highlights, with local charities raising funds from stalls.

Carol singing at the Free Church and a variety of amusements for the children, including Shayler’s fairground rides, ensured the festive spirit dominated.

Indian Bangra drummers were in Caudle Street outside Al Baddar hairdressers, while roving carol singers and a cello player from The Children’s Society kept the musical entertainment at top pitch.

Shops stayed open late and provided visitors with free food and drinks, while chestnuts, hot food and warm drinks were given to passers-by at The Plough, Jeremy’s and Cornerweighs.

“It was a fantastic evening,” said Susie Russell-Smith of Cornerweighs, the health food store. “The atmosphere was tremendous and it was one of the best Christmas events the village has had.”

John Willis, owner of Top Shelf and Village Care, said: “Everybody had a wonderful time and we were delighted with the number of people out in the street.” Top Shelf had a chocolate tasting event and competition.

Carole Caudwell of The Plough said: “This was our first Christmas in Henfield and a real delight, with great warmth and generosity.”

Jen Allmond, owner of Bay Tree Trading in Caudle Street, said: “The shop was constantly full and everybody said what a wonderful time they were having. The musical entertainment made it a great event.”

Mike Beardall, chairman of Henfield Enterprise, said: “The organisers really pulled together to make this a special event and we were helped by marvellous weather. We have to thank everyone who took part and worked so hard.”

Charities benefitting included Henfield Scouts, the Brownies, St. Barnabas Hospice, Henfield Youth Club and The Children’s Society.

Standen, Christmas Lunch and Visit to the House

Enjoy a delicious meal in the Barn restaurant and a look around Standen decorated for Christmas.House open for free flow visits 11am – 12.30 (ground floor only), lunch sittings at 12.30, 12.45 and 1pm.
2 courses: £22.50; 3 courses: £26

16th and 17th December

Booking essential. Tel. 01342 323029
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-standen

East Grinstead Sports Club - Help with a Virgin Donation

Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty and very close to London, Gatwick and the whole of the South East, this venue is truly unique.

With International standard facilities and over 100 years of sporting tradition - producing 4 Olympians - we have been included in the London 2012 Pre-Games Training Venue guide.

Our charitable trust status has helped us provide multisport opportunities for the whole community. Whether it be a party in our main balcony bar, a conference in our Ashdown suite overlooking the grounds or a function/corporate day in our 600 capacity indoor Marquee, we can cater for all your needs.
Enjoy a work out in The Fitness Suite gym, join one of our sports clubs or coaching sessions, hire a pitch/court or simply have a social game with friends......

We all want to enjoy the fabulous facilities and and enjoy our sports and leisure time and you can help. Every donation will make a difference and if youve got an idea for a fundraising event, why not setup up an event to help raise more money for the club.
East Grinstead Sports Club is here for you, your family and friends...
DONATE HERE
Thank you for your support in making the club the best it can be
Please visit www.egscc.co.uk for more infomation on East Grinstead Sports Club

Hope in the Valley RDA Group early Christmas party

Plumpton College played host to an early Christmas party for the Hope in the Valley RDA Group. The Group, which  is based at Plumpton College in East Sussex, offers weekly riding lessons for physically disabled children. Facilities for their riding lessons at Plumpton College include a full-size indoor arena and, in good weather, the children can enjoy a hack around the grounds of the College. As well as the weekly term-time riding, all the riders also participate in horse-care classes.
As a group, they participate in RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) grade exams, gymkhanas, rallies and annually compete in dressage at Hickstead.
Hope in the Valley is staffed entirely by volunteers. www.hopeinthevalley.org

Sally Gunnell picks up £18,500 from Marks & Spencer

Olympic gold medallist and newly-appointed Patron of Chestnut Tree House, Sally Gunnell OBE, recently received a cheque for a staggering £18,500 on behalf of the charity from Marks & Spencer.

As part of Marks & Spencer’s 125th anniversary celebrations, staff at the Shoreham M&S store have been working tirelessly to raise money for Chestnut Tree House, the only children’s hospice in Sussex.

In just 125 days, the store has raised a massive £18,500 for the charity – over ten times their original target – through various fundraising events and activities, including fancy dress days, face-painting, bake-offs, raffles and a huge seaside-themed fundraising day at the Holmbush Centre in July, which Sally came along to open.

Silvana Carlberg, M&S Shoreham 125 Fundraising Coordinator, and Marilyn Rodd, M&S Shoreham Section Manager, visited Chestnut Tree House to present the cheque in person to Sally.  It was Sally’s first ‘official duty’ in her new role as the hospice’s Patron and she said, “I am very proud to be a Patron of Chestnut Tree House.  I have seen first hand what wonderful care they provide for life-limited children in Sussex and know what a difference it makes to their families.  I am so grateful to all the staff at Marks & Spencer’s Holmbush store for working so hard to raise such a fantastic total for Chestnut Tree House.”
 

NEW BUILDING WORKS AT SHEFFIELD PARK STATION

The Bluebell Railway is pleased to announce that it has appointed construction company Morgan Ashurst, which has a local office in Brighton, to construct the new buildings and facilities that form its Operation Undercover Project.

Morgan Ashurst will construct a new carriage storage shed of some 2,000 sq m, to provide urgently needed weatherproof shelter for up to 17 historic passenger carriages from the Bluebell’s heritage collection.  In addition, a range of historic platform buildings will be restored close to their original condition as built by the Lewes and East Grinstead Railway and extended to include a substantial museum, interpretation area and new lavatory/baby changing facilities.

On the other side of the tracks, new washout and loco facilities will be built.  This will use recycled rainwater from the roof of the new carriage shed.

Construction will start on 4th January 2010 with completion planned for Autumn 2010.

Roy Watts, Chairman of the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society said “Operation Undercover has had a long lead in period and we are grateful for the Heritage Lottery Fund’s support during this period. Over the last year work has really stepped up and we have already prepared the majority of the site ready for Morgan Ashurst to start in earnest.  During this time the railway has looked carefully it the cost of this project and I am pleased that we have reduced the projected budget for this project by some 9% while retaining all of the key components of the project, providing value for money for both railway and the Heritage Lottery Fund.  It is extremely exciting that the main building works should be completed while the Bluebell Railway is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary year.

Morgan Ashurst has considerable rail and heritage experience.  The company is currently working for Network Rail on the restoration and rebuilding of the historic glazed roof at Paddington Station.

Julien Jones, Morgan Ashurst area said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract.  The Bluebell Railway is a well established part of the local community in Sussex and we are proud to bring our construction expertise to a project which will provide a new home for its historic rolling stock and museum artefacts for many years to come.”

The Heritage Lottery fund has awarded a grant of up to £2.875 million towards this project.  Stuart McLeod, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South East said “The Bluebell’s railway collection of historic carriages is of national importance and the quality of the restoration work is recognised throughout the railway preservation movement.  We are very pleased that construction work is due to commence to help protect the collection and ensure that people of all ages can learn about and enjoy this special part of our heritage.”

Cooking for a good cause

INVITING friends round for dinner is always fun but now you can put your cooking skills to good use for a good cause.
 
Meningitis UK has launched a new initiative called Dinner 4 Good which invites people to organise a dinner party online in return for a donation. The simple concept is organised easily online where you can write up your menu, list the time, date and place of your dinner, and email an invitation to all your prospective guests. You could have a dress code or theme to your dinner party - a pirate night, a Moroccan theme, black tie, murder mystery or wherever your imagination takes you. It doesn’t have to be a formal affair either, and other ideas include having a buffet, picnic or barbeque – depending on the weather.
 
Donations for the night are made online via your dinner party page and can be at the guest’s discretion. All funds will come straight to Meningitis UK and its life-saving research to find a vaccine for meningitis B – the most common strain of the disease in this country.
 
Six families a week lose a loved on to the brain bug, which can kill in under four hours.
 
Kate Rowland, Head of Development at Meningitis UK, said: “We think Dinner 4 Good is a really good way to have fun whilst raising money for a good cause. Everyone enjoys having friends round for dinner, and with the economic climate as it is at the moment, staying in is the new going out. The Dinner 4 Good website makes it really easy to organise the party and collect donations, leaving the cook to concentrate on creating their menu.”

For further information please visit www.meningitisuk.org/dinner4good <http://www.meningitisuk.org/dinner4good>  or call Meningitis UK on 0117 373 7373.

Plumpton Racecourse offers a new Winter Warmer Package

Plumpton is offering racegoers an early Christmas present of special savings on their popular 2010 hospitality packages with a "Winter Warmer" offer valid for their race meetings on Monday 18th January, Monday 15th February and Monday 1st March 2010.
 
The Winter Warmer package costs only £70 inc. VAT, and includes Premier enclosure admission badge and race card, hire of a private trackside hospitality suite with viewing balcony overlooking the winning post, two course buffet lunch, and unlimited house wine, beers and soft drinks.
 
Chief Executive Claire Sheppard says “We have put together this special offer as we greatly appreciate that money is very tight for everyone, especially after Christmas. We are very popular for anniversary celebrations and birthday parties, and hope to make it more affordable for our customers to treat themselves to a great day out at Plumpton.”
 
“Plumpton has bucked the general trend in racecourse hospitality as box let bookings so far this season are up 42% on last year. We believe this is due to a combination of the great value of our hospitality and restaurant packages, and the excellent customer service from the team here.”
 
To book this special package, racegoers can call the racecourse office 01273 890383 quoting "Winter Warmer" package.
 
For further information call 01273 890383 or visit www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk.
 

TREASURE ISLAND -The Panto! HURSTPIERPOINT PLAYERS

 Once again the Hurstpierpoint Players are putting on a traditional pantomime - complete with Dame, Fairy Mermaid and a Baddie called Long John Silver - loosely based on the story of Treasure Island.

This new pantomime, written and directed by Bob Sampson, promises lots of pirates, lots of songs and some very messy slapstick. Most of all there will be a lot of jokes old and new.

Come along an join in the fun. Book early because the pantomime always sells out very quickly! Ticket are £8 for adults, £4 for children and £20 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children). They are available from Clifford Dann, 126 High Street, Hurstpierpoint. Tel: 01273 833491. The show only lasts a couple of hours so don't worry about the kids being up too late. Performances at The Players Theatre, Hurstpierpoint, will be on Fri. Jan 1st at 2.30 pm, Sat. Jan 2nd at 2.30 and 7.30 pm, Sun. Jan 3rd at 2.30pm, Jan Wed. 6th, Thurs. 7th and Fri. 8th at 7.30 pm, and Sat. Jan 9th at 2.30 and 7.30 pm.

Further Information and Press Tickets from:

Bob Sampson

email: sampson.bob@gmail.com

Telephone: 01273 833397

The photo shows The Dame, Hetty Hawkins, with two pirates (left to right) Joanna Murray,  Bob Sampson and Pip Sampson

Highbrook Christmas Market

Saturday 12th December 2009 10:00am - 3:00pm

Highbrook Village Hall

The Highbrook Village Christmas Market has been a long established event at which funds are raised in support of the Village Hall and All Saints Church through the sale of local produce, plants, handicrafts, gifts, mulled wine and refreshments.
In addition to the above stalls there will be a children's corner and competitions will include the best decorated bauble for our village Christmas tree.
A raffle will be held with a wide range of donated prizes.
FATHER CHRISTMAS WILL ARRIVE AT NOON

FireBreak triumph for young people at Burgess Hill Fire Station

Eleven young people attended a graduation ceremony with a difference – it was held at Burgess Hill Fire Station to mark their successful completion of a 10-week FireBreak course. They showed off a range of new skills to friends, family and Colonel Richard Putnam, Deputy Lieutenant, West Sussex.

The FireBreak scheme is run by West Sussex County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service. It is supported by all Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships across West Sussex. It offers young people the opportunity to take part in a learning experience outside the school environment.

Students attend a Fire Station for one day per week over the course of the programme, taking part in a structured and disciplined programme of events, which combines practical training with classroom-based workshops.

Jeremy Beard, the Fire and Rescue Service’s Youth Initiatives and Schools Education Manager, said the students are encouraged to develop personal and social skills by taking part in fire service drills, a variety of individual challenges and team building activities. “Students are nominated to attend the FireBreak course because their schools believe they will benefit from this unique opportunity,” he said. “A great deal of emphasis is placed on team building activities in order to develop a sense of pride, individual confidence and self-esteem.”

The students came from:

· Downlands Community College, Hassocks.
· Oakmeeds Community College, Burgess Hill.
· Oathall Community College, Haywards Heath.
· Warden Park School, Cuckfield.

The students were presented with a certificate and a number of them received an additional award to recognise their outstanding individual progress or their contribution to the team.

Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “FireBreak is one of a number of schemes run by our firefighters for young people throughout West Sussex. Everyone who graduated can be extremely proud of their achievements, which is also a reflection of the commitment of their instructors.”

Hassocks WI

On Monday, 7th December we enjoyed a fabulous night at our DIY Christmas Event. We were quite shocked as over 100 women attended, teenagers to the retired, to make wreaths, table and tree decorations, cards and tags and some beautiful handmade crafts were sold. The girls toiled away whilst enjoying homemade mulled wine and mince pies. We had an array of talented facilitators from our own members and some wonderful inspiration from the ladies at the Hassocks Flower Club. We ended the night with singing carols around the piano!! I would like to say a BIG thank you to all who made the night a fantastic success – you know who you are!!
 
Our next event is on Monday, 18th January at Adastra Hall, Hassocks.
Hassocks WI would like to invite you to a night of pampering and indulgance after the business of Christmas and the New Year! Come and relax and unwind! Fantastic raffle prizes too! There will be an opportunity to join the WI or a donation can be given at the door. All welcome. Call Naomi Demaine-Stone on 01273 841488.

Robin Cook Photography, beautiful images for the Wedding and Corporate markets

Robin Cook Photography was born out of a life–long passion for taking pictures.  Following a successful career in the Sussex Police, Robin started a photographic business in 1981 from his garden shed.  This developed and diversified into a thriving company, Robin Cook Film Laboratories, which covered the whole of the South of England.
 

Ever on the lookout for new challenges and driven by a love of new technology,  in 1989, Robin stared a video production company making mainly corporate videos and TV commercials for ITV, this too flourished, the edit suite was sold to Sky TV in 1995.

  

With hindsight, Robin now sees this as positive, as it made him reassess what was important and what it was he enjoyed doing, and in 2005 Robin Cook Photography was reborn, with all the benefits of the latest digital equipment coupled with the wealth of 30 years experience honing and perfecting his art.

  

Now producing beautiful images for the Wedding and Corporate markets, Robin says, “I am glad I came back to photography at this time.  The technological advances have meant the possibilities are endless in terms of creativity.  That said, it’s all about having the skills and disciplines that I was fortunate enough to learn on film.  Too many people these days pick up an expensive camera and assume they will take great shots!”  He goes on to say “the one thing you can’t Photoshop is experience!

The Old Tollgate Hotel & Restaurant, Bramber wins a Silver Award with Green Tourism

The Old Tollgate Hotel & Restaurant, Bramber

- the only Hotel in Sussex with a Silver Award from Green Tourism.

Set in the picturesque village of Bramber, in the shadow of the ruins of historic Bramber Castle and close to the South Downs National Park and the Downlink, The Old Tollgate Hotel has 38 ensuite bedrooms in a variety of styles including suites and four-poster rooms.

The Hotel is privately owned by Sue & Peter Sargent and together with their team they are committed to the ideals of Corporate Social Responsibility and have just achieved a Silver Award with Green Tourism.  They are currently the only Hotel in Sussex that holds this award and they are very proud of their efforts.

The Hotel has a dedicated team of staff on the Environmental Committee who meet every month to review all aspects of the Green Tourism criteria, from paper re-use and recycling to local information on walking and cycling.  The Kitchen is involved in the recycling and sourcing local food whenever possible and introducing Fair Trade products.  The Committee also discuss new ideas to improve existing measures and keep their staff and guests informed on a ‘Green Notice board’. 

The popular Restaurant offers a fantastic choice of dishes using the finest local, seasonal produce from specially chosen supplier.  The menu features the famous hors d’oeuvres cold table and hot starters, followed by the carvery style main course which includes casseroles, fish and vegetarian options in addition to the selection of roast meats. Make sure you take a look at the hot and cold desserts before you start your meal otherwise you might not save enough room to enjoy these delicious choices.

The Old Tollgate Hotel & Restaurant is well located for corporate clients having easy access from the A23/A24/A27 and is ideally located for guests wanting to enjoy the stunning Sussex countryside yet near enough to Brighton for shopping and the sea.

This is the perfect place for celebrations of all kinds, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, wedding, lunch or dinner party. There are various sized function rooms and two rooms licenced for civil ceremonies, and a pretty garden for those warm summer days.

Check our website for special offers www.oldtollgatehotel.com

East Grinstead Sports Club Hollywood Ball

A RESOUNDING SUCCESS FOR THE HOLLYWOOD BALL

For those lucky enough to attend last Saturday's Hollywood Ball, everyone was treated to a fabulous evening inside East Grinstead Sports Club's very own purpose built indoor Marquee. Over 300 guests attended the black tie ball which was a resounding success with all the glitz that guests have come to expect from our events including top class food and entertainment.

Here are a few of the comments that we've received already: -

"Thank you for last night. We all had a lovely time - Excellent!"

"What a fantastic last night to be able to cook for so many and all the meals were hot and flavoursome. You must feel proud! Well done!"

"Well done on a brilliant event. The food was excellent. A great night, please pass on our congratulations to the organisers!"

"Congratulations to the EGSC Event Team. Another triumph, thanks for a fab night!"

"I would just like to say thank you for a wonderful evening on Saturday. The food was excellent the music great and the marquee looked fantastic."

"A big thanks for a fantastic evening and all your hard work and also accommodating us on larger tables. Having been involved in previous Summer Balls we totally appreciate the amount of work involved and will openly admit that it's nice to relax and let the others do it for you!"

"The food was superb and far exceeded all our expectations and was the best I have ever had at such a large mass catering event - please pass on our thanks."

"Will certainly be back with another crowd of around thirty next time."

If you were at the Hollywood Ball, we would love to have your feedback. Please contact Heather at functions@egscc.co.uk

Protect the South Downs this Christmas

No more socks this Christmas!  Buy a gift to help protect our beautiful South Downs.
 
The conservation charity, the South Downs Society, today announced the answer to this year’s Christmas gift problems.  A gift membership to the South Downs Society is the perfect present for anyone who loves the stunning area stretching between Eastbourne and Winchester, confirmed last month as Britain’s newest National Park.  

Jane Major, a spokesperson for the Society, said: “Unwanted gifts will be a thing of the past.  Purchase a gift that will bring hours, days, indeed years of pleasure, as well as keeping the lucky recipient fit!

“Not only will the recipient have the opportunity to join over 300 walks and strolls each year, they can also participate in specially organised events and lectures whilst belonging to an organisation that is 100% committed to preserving and conserving our magnificent natural heritage – the South Downs.

“This Christmas, be sure the only socks you buy are for walking.  Do please consider purchasing a gift membership and ensure somebody you care for shares in discovering the beauty of the South Downs.”

Since 1923 the South Downs Society (formerly the Society of Sussex Downsmen) has been campaigning for the landscape of the South Downs to be protected from inappropriate development.  It works to ensure footpaths and bridleways are well maintained so that all members of the public can enjoy the great outdoors to maximum effect.

Gift Membership Subscriptions start at just £20 a year and are available from the Society’s website at  www.southdownssociety.org.uk <http://www.southdownssociety.org.uk/> or by telephone 01798 875073.

Snowman Spectacular

This year’s Snowman Spectacular Fundraising Ball for Chestnut Tree House raised a staggering £54,000 for the children’s hospice, smashing last year’s total of £40,000.  In fact, the final total may yet go higher as donations are still coming in!

The event, which took place on Friday 4 December 2009 at the Hilton Brighton Metropole, was a sell-out success, attracting 570 guests made up of hospice supporters and influential business people from across Sussex.

Raymond Briggs, Patron of Chestnut Tree House, once again kindly allowed the charity to use his iconic Snowman as the theme for the Ball to create a Christmassy, winter wonderland, complete with real Christmas tree forest.

The Snowman Spectacular was hosted by friend and supporter of the hospice, Ben Richards, who plays PC Nate Roberts in the popular ITV police drama 'The Bill', and who brought a host of celebrity friends from ‘The Bill’. His co-host, Laila Rouass, was unfortunately unable to be at the Ball due to the constraints of her schedule for Strictly Come Dancing the following day.  However, she very kindly took time out during rehearsals to film a message of support which was played during the evening.  Ben was also joined by Brighton actress, Julie Graham, known for her lead role in ‘Survivors’, Sally Gunnell OBE who attended in her role as Patron of Chestnut Tree House, children’s TV presenter, Sid Sloane, Brighton artist Julie-Anne Gilburt, as well as local celebrity DJ, Ambrose Harcourt.

The main entertainment was supplied by up and coming young comedian, Mark Watson, together with live bands, The Dynamo Rhythm Aces and The Magic Number and the Theatre Workshop International Choir.  

The main speaker of the evening was Chestnut Tree House Mum, Sue Berry, accompanied by her 13 year old son, Matthew, who suffers from Duchene muscular dystrophy.  She spoke very eloquently about the care Matt receives at the hospice, how much Chestnut Tree House means to them and what a difference this support makes to their lives.  The pair had a great time, with Matt commenting, “This must be what it's like to be on the X-Factor!”  Sue added, “It was an incredible privilege to meet so many warm-hearted, generous people and Matthew and I felt very proud and honoured to have helped Chestnut Tree House with their extremely important challenge to care for every life-limited child in Sussex.”

Highlight of the evening was the hugely successful ‘Money Can’t Buy’ auction which included such fantastic prizes as two sought-after tickets to the Last Night of the Proms at the Albert Hall, an original drawing by Raymond Briggs created specially for the Ball, a round of golf with Michael Campbell at the East Sussex National and an exclusive screening of The Snowman at the Duke of York cinema in Brighton.  The highest bid for the evening was for the care package to enable Chestnut Tree House to provide care for a family for a whole year.  Thanks to two guests each donating £9,000, this lot went for an amazing £18,000 which will allow not one, but two families to benefit.

The charity also used the evening to introduce guests to their brand new Chestnut’s Challenge campaign.  At present, for every child cared for by Chestnut Tree House, there is another child in Sussex not receiving this vital care due to lack of funding.  Chestnut’s Challenge is to find those families who need the hospice’s help and to double their income in the next three years.

“It was a fantastic evening and we were overwhelmed by the generosity of our guests,” said Hugh Lowson, Chief Executive.  “To raise over £54,000, especially in the current economic climate, is a fantastic achievement and I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all our guests for their kindness and to everyone who helped with making the Snowman Spectacular such a huge success.”

 

 

Lewes WellBeing Fest

LEWES WELLBEING FEST, 16th & 17th JANUARY 2010 - Now Celebrating our 5th year, we have got an exciting programme lined up filled with more free talks, taster workshops, demos, lots of new exhibitors along with fresh juice and chai bars, Season's organic vegetarian/vegan food cafe and raw food delight!
 
For those of you who have not been before, we have a wellbeing zone where people can experience an eclectic mix of affordable therapies & taster treatments, a creative kids area as well as a feel good market with natural and organic products, inspirational art, books & music! 
 
We have a stage area to keep everyone entertained all day, Featuring live music from Kalamus and demos including Alexander Technique, Fencing, Karate, Lindy Hop, Margaret Morris Movement, Peace Dancing, Pilates, Tai Chi, Yoga and Much More.
 
For more info on free talks and taster workshops see our  
Weekend Programme  <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102870109909&s=3447&e=001jQmv-mXQjrztI7qpfqVqukqxrKKx5OfZkIjo7pBFyPk5wQG4e44TEUIMljH8G5k5-ja-QkasFm980bmRM6luD62-jxmGJhd0w6HJ5-dlX7ngEIMDQbQhDiszj9tjANgx_aP2LZyFmUHQdArzOzRjBA==>  
 
This year we are organising a raffle to support a local charity 
The Children With Cancer Fund <http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102870109909&s=3447&e=001jQmv-mXQjrzSXJsMe-Mz3_AC6EMGxwZI6wKeueBgnIBdWqSmAEazakASrTa8sK4QB3lMKK9POGAjaZRY1e7jD-cDs2cbAAqXj37OdbjtvHNHiGY9af-sqPfwWjh0HsfgOmitgTF5o99lW2Tn5u80Yg==>  

Mid Sussex Camera Club

The Mid Sussex Camera Club held its annual Natural History photograph competition last Monday evening (30/11/2009) at the CVS Centre in Burgess Hill,  
As usual the event was very well attended on the night and there were plenty of entries on display. The judge for this event was John Staples ARPS.
There were 2 classes of entry, Projected Digital Images and Prints.
The results in each class are entered below.

Prints
1st Place:Sally Cooper, Female Great Spotted Woodpecker    
2nd Place:Sally Cooper, Goldfinch
3rd Place:Mike Rump, Merlin (female)

Projected Images
1st Place: Jim Hunter, Red Kite
2nd Place:Neil Leighton, Herring Gull
3rd Place: Mervyn Seltzer, Klipspringer
 
Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to all of the 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


JANUARY 2010 events:

4th Natural History Talk - Ian Betts
11th The Camera Man - Steve Hall
18th SPA Inter-Club Competition, between NWPS, East Grinstead CC, Mid Sussex CC & Crawley CC,  
hosted at Crawley Camera Club. Judge: Roger Reynolds Hon FRPS, APAGB, FBPPA, FBBPE.
25th Sussex Competition. Judge: Eric Burchall

Hurstpierpoint stars are shining bright

It was a sell-out at Holy Trinity church in Hurstpierpoint as young members of Shine Theatre staged their two-night Christmas show 'The Sound of White' -a collection of songs and dances all with a theme of white.

The theatre group runs a centre for performing arts in Sussex for all young people, including those with additional learning, mobility or social needs, to enable them to experience, produce and perform in shows of a professional standard.

"It was a fantastic show with all the children really 'shining'", according to trustee Shaughan Parish from the inclusive children's theatre. . "And a delight to see many of the Shining Stars members with learning difficulties taking solo slots in the production."

The event went ahead because of backing from local donors and sponsors including South Downs Heritage Centre in Hassocks. Rather than charging admission, the tourist attraction on the Brighton Road, collects for the young people's theatre group as one of its chosen charities.

"The work Shine does is truly amazing”, says Jonathan Tate who runs the Heritage Centre and neighbouring South Downs Nurseries. “It transforms the lives of many local children, and gives a unique opportunity for more able children to work with and understand the needs of those less able than themselves,” he adds.

For more information about the group visit www.shinetheatregroup.co.uk

Grub Café and Music Bar, East Grinstead

About grub! 

By day Grub Café and Music Bar is a friendly relaxed café offering delicious simple grub sourced predominately from the local area. We were highly commended in the UKTV Local Food Hero awards in 2008 (South East) and have been nominated for the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2009/2010 (Best eating our experience). Families are welcomed during the day and to most of our evening events (Comedy and some other performances may not be suitable for the under 16s).

Live acoustic music is on offer every week (check website for listings). We showcase the best of local talent alongside well-established names from the UK as well as artists who are touring from the USA, Australia and Europe. One of our international guests, David Celia from Canada, sums up his music as 'root-rock with a hint of folk wrapped up in a pop package'. This aptly describes much of the music at Grub. As a huge fan of Bob Harris' Radio 2 shows, owner Steven Price has been delighted to host a number of the amazing list of accomplished singer-songwriters and bands that have been played and performed live on his shows.
Our fornightly Open Mic sessions (1st and 3rd Tuesdays) are incredibly popular, booking is recommended if you are hoping to perform. The atmosphere is relaxed & friendly and the crowd are always generous with their support. All ages, experience and genres welcome!
The Grinstock Comedy Club brings a taste of London night life to East Grinstead. The comedy club has proved an instant success and with names such as Holly Walsh, Phil Kaye and Angelos Epithemiou already on the line up, these events will only continue to grow.
Other events have included photo exhibitions (we are currently showing photos from wildlife photographer Gavin Parsons) charity quiz nights (by special request), one man theatre and private parties. Private hire available Sunday to Friday and we have held events as varied as wedding parties, 1^st, 30^th, 40^th 60^th birthdays, naming ceremonies, christenings, club meetings & leaving do's.
We are never afraid to try something new! If you have an idea give us a call.

State of the art waste site for East Grinstead

East Grinstead’s Household Waste Recycling Site will undergo major modernisation next year. It will be transformed into a state of the art facility, similar to the flagship site in Crawley. The plans for the site, which is operated by Viridor on behalf of West Sussex County Council, were detailed at the last public meeting of North Mid Sussex County Local Committee.

Peter Robinson, of the County Council’s Waste Management Team, said the immediate improvements people will see are:
· A clear one-way traffic system.
· Improved traffic flows.
· Segregated lorry traffic.
· Improved recycling facilities.
· Better access.

This will result in no queuing and improved safety. The site will be more user-friendly and offer improved recycling, said Peter. While the modernisation is being carried out, the site will be closed between Monday and Friday. However, there will be a restricted service on part of the site at weekends. It will also be businesses as usual at the Crawley and Burgess Hill sites, which provide the full range of services, accepting recyclables and hazardous waste such as fridges and TVs. Where sites elsewhere in the county had been closed for improvements, there had been no noticeable increase in fly tipping. However, Mid Sussex District Council will be operating a fly tipping hit squad, which will reinforce litter collections.

Magical Christmas Concert, Olympos, Triangle Way, Burgess Hill

Magical Christmas Concert
Sunday 13 December, 2009 7.30pm
Olympos, Triangle Way, Burgess Hill, W Sussex RH15 8WA
Sussex Symphony Orchestra conducted by Mark Andrew James
Soprano Jo Appleby, Tenor Nicholas Ransley
Tickets:  Adult: £20 Conc: £15 Child: £10  Ticket hotline:  01444 255115/876060 Online: www.itsmagic.org.uk

To celebrate the Christmas season It’s Magic have joined forces with Sussex Symphony Orchestra and international stars soprano Jo Appleby and tenor Nicholas Ransley to provide a Magical Christmas Concert of glorious seasonal and traditional music and carols that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas.  In addition 3 special guest will be appearing on Sunday 13 December, the venue Olympos, Burgess Hill will be decked out with twinkling fairy lights creating a festive spirit for all those who attend.

Suite F5, The Priory Business Centre, Haywards Heath, W Sussex    RH16 3LB

Dates for your diary 2009/10:   December 12th Rocking on Heaven's Door, December 13th Magic of Christmas,
May 30th Jazz & Soul on Broadway, July 10th & 11th Concert Weekend, August 29 Making Waves on Broadway

Rockin’ on Heaven’s Door, Olympos, Triangle Way, Burgess Hill

Rockin’ on Heaven’s Door
Saturday 12 December, 2009 7.30pm
Olympos, Triangle Way, Burgess Hill, W Sussex  RH15 8WA
Tickets:  Adult: £20 Conc: £15 Child: £10  Ticket hotline:  01444 255115/876060 Online: www.itsmagic.org.uk
ROCKIN’ ON HEAVEN’S DOOR sends shivers down the spine with spookily convincing portrayals of musical giants Presley, Orbison, Holly, The Big Bopper and ‘Jerry Lee Lewis’, whose piano bursts into ‘flames’ during Great Balls of Fire.  West Ends very own Buddy Holly, Gus Macgregor, joins Rockin’ On Heaven’s Door along with John-Simon Rawlings as The Big Bopper.  Also featured is Richard Atkins as Elvis Presley, Barry Steele as Roy Orbison and Steve Halliday as Eddie Cochran and Darren Green as Jerry Lee Lewis.  Now in its 12th fantastic year, ROHD has received acclaim throughout the UK and Europe. Backed by a stunning five piece band, this show delivers the feel-good factor from start to finish. ONE MILLION PEOPLE CAN’T BE WRONG!

LIVE & Local Concerts for the Community

www.itsmagic.org.uk
T: 01444 255 134
Suite F5, The Priory Business Centre, Haywards Heath, W Sussex    RH16 3LB

Dates for your diary 2009/10:   December 12th Rocking on Heaven's Door, December 13th Magic of Christmas, May 30th Jazz & Soul on Broadway, July 10th & 11th Concert Weekend, August 29 Making Waves on Broadway

Ditchling Pre School annual charity jumble sale

Ditchling Pre School annual charity jumble sale will be held in Ditchling Village Hall on Saturday 6th February 2010 from 2.00-4.00pm entrance fee £1. Contact number to deliver jumble 01273 843591.

Round Table launch 2009 Christmas collections

In a local tradition spanning more than 30 years, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath and District Round Table will again be taking to the Streets with Santa Claus and his sleigh in order to raise funds for local causes.

Lauren Silverlock aged 5 from Haywards Heath, one of this year’s beneficiaries of Round Table fundraising activities, has been selected to meet Santa and officially launch his Christmas collections from the Triangle Leisure Centre in Burgess Hill.

Lauren’s parents approached Round Table in June for help funding a special tricycle for their daughter who has Cerebral Palsey. The specialist tricycle, costing £1129, is designed to help Lauren with her muscle movement and to encourage her to walk. Round Table donated £679 help purchase the tricycle that was delivered in September and Lauren has been practising her cycling ever since.

Santa Claus, in his new jet powered sleigh, will be taking to the streets of Burgess Hill and Haywards Heath every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 3rd December through to 20th with his army of collectors.

Steve Wilcock, Chairman of Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath and District Round Table said “Our Christmas collections are our second biggest fundraiser of the year - behind the Burgess Hill Bike Ride that we organise in conjunction with the Burgess Hill Lions and St Peter & St James Hospice.

“The collections are a Round Table tradition than spans more than 30 years and I can remember getting excited to see Santa myself as a child in the 70’s!

“It’s hard work but very rewarding for Tablers to meet local families and see the smiles when Santa comes along. Sometimes whole streets come out with mince pies and warming drinks to welcome us. It’s truly amazing.

“I’m delighted that Lauren has accepted our invitation to officially launch this year’s collections. We’re hoping to raise over £3500 this year and Lauren represents exactly the type of cause that the money will support.”

Halt Cissbury sale!

The Open Spaces Society has called on Worthing Borough Council’s Cabinet to withdraw from sale its land at Cissbury(2) and then to consult interested people and organisations about the land’s future.  The Cabinet meets tomorrow (Thursday 3 December) to discuss the matter, and the recommendation is to withdraw the land for sale.

Says Kate Ashbrook, the society’s general secretary: ‘We have written to the leader, Paul Yallop, and the Cabinet Member for Resources, Steve Waight, to say that, while we applaud the recommendation to withdraw the land for sale, we are concerned that the council is considering a policy of selling leasehold interests in its land, on the advice of “a prominent developer”.

‘We believe that would be the wrong solution for the Cissbury downland.  The council must remain clearly in control and, unless there are clear caveats about how the land is to be managed, to secure public access and to protect and restore the landscape and its natural history, these downs will be lost the public and to future generations.

‘That would be ironic just as the area is confirmed as the South Downs National Park,’ Kate argues.

‘One option might be to enter into a partnership with the National Trust which owns adjoining land, so that the trust oversees the management of Worthing’s land and ensures that this always is in the public interest.

‘The council is meeting the National Trust and the South Downs Joint Committee immediately before the Cabinet meeting.  But that does not allow for any effective input from that meeting to influence the Cabinet’s decision, should the Cabinet be minded to consider a leasehold arrangement.

‘So, beyond agreeing to withdraw the land from sale, the Cabinet must defer any further consideration of the future of the site until it has consulted all those who have an interest in it.  The protest rally on 14 November showed the huge strength of feeling, locally and nationally, about the need to safeguard this treasured landscape,’ Kate concludes.

The Open Spaces Society (formally the Commons, Open Spaces and Footpaths Preservation Society) was founded in 1865 and is Britain’s oldest national conservation body.  It campaigns to protect common land, village greens, open spaces and public paths, and people’s right to enjoy them, throughout England and Wales.

The land which Worthing Council plans to sell consists of a mile and a half along the Tenant Hill ridge to the south-east of Cissbury Ring, and Mount Carvey, to the south of Cissbury Ring.  For further information see Stop Cissbury Sell Off’s website: www.scso.co.uk.

Henfield Christmas Night

Fun for all the family on December 11

HENFIELD High Street will celebrate the Spirit of Christmas from 4-8pm on Friday December 11.
 
Carol singing outside the Free Church, 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 the centre of the village  and he will also have a grotto nearby in the bus shelter (courtesy of Henfield Youth Club).
 
Other entertainments in Henfield on the Friday evening include musical groups in action, a barbeque (Henfield Club), plus refreshments and activities in many shops and various fund-raising stalls for charity.
 
Come and enjoy an evening of dazzling features, under the bright Christmas lights of Henfield.

Lessons must be learnt from hospitals saga

Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert has welcomed the decision of the West Sussex Primary Care Trust to abandon its proposals to downgrade hospital services.
 
Mr Herbert was commenting after a meeting on Thursday 26 November at which the Board of the Trust accepted a recommendation that inpatient paediatrics, emergency surgery and inpatient maternity services should be maintained at both St Richard’s and Worthing Hospitals.
 
The Board also accepted a recommendation to maintain consultant-led maternity services at the Princess Royal in Haywards Heath.
 
The move follows the amalgamation on 1 April of the Royal West Sussex NHS Trust, which managed St Richard’s, and the Worthing and Southlands Hospitals NHS Trust.
 
Nick Herbert said: “The whole community will be relieved at this decision to bury the deeply unpopular and damaging ‘Fit for the Future’ plans to downgrade our hospitals once and for all.  
 
“Lessons must now be learnt from this unhappy saga.  First, this whole process has been a costly and wasteful shambles.  We first heard rumours that NHS managers were considering amalgamating hospital services three and a half years ago.  Since then, we’ve had not one but two consultations, delays and changes.  The public have been worried and staff morale damaged unnecessarily.  
 
“During a week when we hear that life-extending drugs are going to be denied to liver cancer patients, the waste of millions of pounds of NHS money on botched re-organisation plans makes me particularly angry.
 
“Second, there has been a total absence of accountability in this process.  The local PCT is unelected and answers to no-one, while Ministers claimed – incredibly – that the drive for mergers had nothing to do with them.  The original report by management consultants was kept secret for months before it was revealed.
 
“Third, for too long in this process, new service configurations were being discussed to accommodate revised working arrangements for doctors.  That was the wrong way around.  The driver for any health reforms should be what is in the interests of patients.
 
“Finally, it was the tireless grassroots campaigns, the thousands in our communities who marched and the hundreds of thousands who signed petitions who made the difference.  Thank goodness that sense and people power finally prevailed.”
 
The PCT Board’s decision will be discussed at the next Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting in Chichester on 3 December.

Russian Open House - part of Brighton Christmas Open Houses

Fashion - Open House in Kemptown

Last weekend saw the launch of the Russian Open House - part of Brighton Christmas Open Houses trail. Located in Kemptown, Marine Parade, the house offered its warm welcome to all the brave people who came to visit during Saturday and Sunday despite the horrendous weather.

We had art lovers coming in shivering with cold, drenched but nonetheless still enthusiastic about all things beautiful they were to discover in our house.

Greeted with a shot of vodka or a glass of Russian mulled wine and some traditional Russian snacks, they had a chance to browse our collection of authentic, inspirational and uplifting art and fashion.

We have acrylic, oil and watercolour paintings, cards and prints; photographs; beautiful hand made jackets, boots, bags and accessories made from natural materials and antique fabrics from Central Asia; hand made jewellery - all modestly priced and making a perfect - and different - Christmas present.

Please come and visit us - we are still open the next two weekends - 5/6th and 12/13th December, with Brighton Russian Choir coming to sing traditional Russian folk songs and carols on 12th December at 1pm.

18 Northumberland Court, 62-64 Marine Parade, Brighton BN2 1AD
(corner of Marine Parade and Wyndham street)

OPEN: 11am-6pm December 5/6th and 12/13th

 

20% off Wentworth Cabinets at The Kitchen People, Lindfield, Haywards Heath

The Kitchen People are a leading kitchen design company based in Lindfield. We provide a personalised, professional kitchen design service, employing computer aided design and superior quality materials and finishes.

Call us today on 01444 484868, visit our stunning showroom in Lindfield or read more about what we can offer you here today. Our virtual showroom offers a sneak peek into our latest design projects.

Our design studio offers a personalised design service and a wide range of high quality kitchens from recognised manufacturers including; Wentworth, Schroder, English Revival and Second Nature.

We utilise some of the latest industry software to design and plan your kitchen around you and your home whilst providing you with 3D rendered illustrations of how your new kitchen will look..

Come and visit our showroom where you can view a wide range of styles and tastes that use a variety of high quality materials and finishes. On display we have stunning installations of Corian™, Granite, Zodiaq™, Getacore™ and timber worktops and select range of appliances including new brands such as Kitchen Aid™

Please also take the time to view "What we've done", filled with high-res photos from some of our latest installations.

Wivelsfield Green Playgroup Make Room for Jesus this Christmas

Posada is an old Mexican tradition where young people dressed as Mary and Joseph travelled from house to house asking for a room for the night and telling people about the imminent arrival of Jesus in the weeks leading up to Christmas. On Christmas Eve they would visit the local church to re-enact the nativity and place figures of Mary and Joseph in a crib.

Modern day Posada uses nativity figures of Mary and Joseph who travel from place to place. This gives each ‘host’ the chance to create their own celebration in their home or place in the community, worshipping and reaching out to their communities with the real message of Christmas, making room for Jesus in their lives.

Wivelsfield Parish Church has chosen to engage with Posada this year. Members of the congregation and families in the village, including our local pub, The Cock Inn and Wivelsfield Primary School, have signed up to be hosts to the Posada figures for a night each from 1st December until the Crib Service at the Church on Sunday 20th December.

On Sunday 29th November the figures were blessed in Church and then carried out by the Sunday School children before going home with the Collins family of Theobalds Road. On Wednesday 2nd December, before the figures were taken to the next family, they visited the children at Wivelsfield Green Playgroup who were busy rehearsing their upcoming Nativity Play “Jesus’ Christmas Party”. The figures helped to remind the children that amongst all the enjoyment, that Christmas is really about celebrating the birth of Jesus.

For more information please call Dorothy on 01444 440798.

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.

Carol singing outside the Free Church, 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 the centre of the village  and he will also have a grotto nearby in the bus shelter (courtesy of Henfield Youth Club).

Other entertainments in Henfield on the Friday evening include musical groups in action, a barbeque (Henfield Club), plus refreshments and activities in many shops and various fund-raising stalls for charity.

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

*More details: Mike Beardall (Henfield Enterprise) on 01273 495619

William Hill Interiors, Burgess Hill, Winter Sale 20% off. Beat the VAT

William Hill Interiors are an independent family run business based in Surrey, East and West Sussex.

Our aim is to give a first class personal service, supplying high quality furnishings at competitive prices.

We understand that selecting furnishings are some of the biggest investments you make in your home and decisions about your living environment are not made often.

Our service is unequalled and our aim is to make you comfortable throughout the entire decision making process.

We've furnished thousands of homes over 60 years and have gained considerable expertise and experience.

Here's to the next 60 years and taking you forward with style for living.

Consultation Evening Central Sussex College

Consultation Evening

East Grinstead Central Campus, 09/12/2009

Whether you want to learn a new language or develop your existing language skills, improve your literacy and numeracy or become an IT whiz, Central Sussex College has a course to help you succeed

Come along to our Consultation Evening at East Grinstead Central campus, on Wednesday 9th December between 5-7pm and where tutors will be on hand to answer your questions, give advice and provide more information about the courses on offer.

For a free prospectus call 01342 321874 or pick up a copy from the East Grinstead Central campus in Queens Road, local post offices, major bookshops and East Grinstead library.