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On Saturday 10th July Three Bridges Primary School held their annual Summer Fayre. In attendance, helping out with the day were Councillors Bob Burgess and Chris Oxlade. Crawley Happy Times were invited down to experience the stalls and assortment of fun available. The soaking of Cllr Bob Burgess seemed to attract a lot of attention, with Chris Oxlade stepping up to throw a wet sponge at Bob We took some pictures for you to enjoy.

People saw a very unusual sight when visiting the service station at Pease Pottage on Saturday morning. A dedicated group were raising money for Cancer Research UK. They raised some eyebrows as well as all the men dressed as woman to be able to take part in the ’Girls Trike and Bike Ride’. Some went all out and loooked pretty good. Organised by Lorraine from Cancer Research UK, Lorraine came along to thank everyone for their time and dedication. Once leaving the service station the procession of bikes and trikes journeyed to the coast then back to Nutfield for celebration which included a few jars and a hog roast. We would like to thank Alan Hunn for inviting us to see this interesting sight and we hope they managed to raise lots of money Well done to all who took part.
Our freelance photographer Sunay Kurtulus came along to take some pictures for you to enjoy.  Thank you Sunay.

This Saturday (26th June) saw the annual Summer Fayre for Gossops Green, held at the Primary School. And what a great day it turned out to be. Not only was there loads to do but the sun beamed down on all who attended. The fayre consisted of a inflatable slide, a balloon race, an inflatable assault course, pony rides (with real ponies), stalls, hot food, sweet fo the kids (and some of us adults to) and so much more. We were also treated to a mini football tournament and performances by the school children and an outside dance club. All in all, it was a day to be proud of. Crawley Happy Times went along to take some pictures for you to enjoy.

Saturday 19th June was the Midnight Walk event in Horsham. Whilst on our way back from the GAPS Gala Charity Ball in Brighton (so could not stay for long) we popped in to wish our fellow Crawley residents (and everyone else of course) all the best for the walk of thirteen miles for St Catherines Hospice.  A massive well done to all who took part (you know who you are). It was very dark and not very warm, bless you all :-)

On Saturday 19th June Crawley Happy Times were invited to the GAPS Gala Charity Ball in Brighton by Chris Oxlade of Radion Mercury. We had a great time. Nice food, great singers and performances. We bumped into Crawley Councillors Brenda and Bob Burgess and some of the lovely people from Open House while we were there. Here are a few pictures, but we were having too much fun to take lots lol

On the 18th June Michelle from Crawley Happy Times attended the Colin Fry show at the Hawth. Colin is a spiritualist with an excellent and geniune reputation. Colin is entertaining, funny and a really lovely individual. The show was emotional, which is to be expected, but in a positive and constructive manner for those who received messages from loved ones whom have passed away. Michelle was invited back stage to speak to Colin. Colin told Michelle “I like Crawley alot and frequently visit. I pop in to the Three Bridges Spiritualist Church regularily and use the local swimming pool to”. Colin has had the ‘gift’ since childhood and has been putting on shows for thirty one years. Michelle asked how he seperates the spirit side from his everday life. Colin replied “I ask them nicely to go away as this is not the time or place”. Colin then went off to see the people waiting for the book signing. We would like to thank Colin for taking time out to speak to us and we look forward to seeing him back at the Hawth soon. Michelle got a couple of pictures for you to enjoy.

(L-R) Michelle, Colin & Amanda

Wednesday 17th June saw the first birthday of Ginger Moo Art Gallery based in the County Mall, Crawley. This is a truly brilliant occasion with Ginger Moo bringing a touch of class to Crawley. Rachel and Ian run the gallery and support local artists as much as possible. The Mayor Lee Burke and Mayoress Ali Burke attended and had a wonderful time. We would like to thank Rachel and Ian for their hospitality. We look forward to celebrating your second birthday

As always we took some pictures and a glimpse of the talented “My Tiger My Timing” who are a very successful up and coming band. Keep an eye out for them!

On Sunday 13th June the memorial gardens came alive with lots of demonstrations and examples of clubs and groups in Crawley. Organised by Crawley Borough Council, the event gave visitors a chance to see what goes on in community centres and other council owned buildings and offered the chance to join a new group and explore a hobby. It was attended by hundreds of residents making it a great success. It was also visited by Crawleys newly elected His Worshipful the Mayor Lee Burke and Mayoress Ali Burke. Limited edition CHT finger puppet also got a look in
We took some pictures for you to enjoy.
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On Saturday 12th June Crawley Hospital hosted its annual fayre. It was a wonderful day with lots going on, including horse rides, bouncy castle and much more. The brass band played to the crowds of people who turned out. Attended by the MP of Crawley Henry Smith, Deputy Mayor Carol Eade who made a lovely speech and our very own local DJ Chris Oxlade. Demonstrations were given by the fire service and ambulance services. We took some pictures for you.

Chase Fitness had a brilliant start to their two weeks of fun and sports for 4 to 15yr olds. Wednesday 7th April was Golf at Tilgate Golf Course. Watched closely by Andrew, Sue and the rest of the Chase Fitness team, Daniel Lucking, Senior Coaching Professional gave the children a great tutorial and hands on lessons on the practice range. We spoke to some of the children after who told us they thought the day was excellent and they are looking forward to returning next Wednesday. A great start for Chase Fitness! Andrew told us they are now offering FREE spaces at Ifield tomorrow and next Thursday. Please visit here for further information. When calling, if it goes to voice mail, please leave the full name of the child and a contact telephone number.

Practice makes perfect

Andrew & Sue making sure the children had a good time

Daniel Lucking - Senior Coaching Professional

6yr old Logan said he had a brilliant time

Daniel was on hand to help the children at all times

On Sunday 4th April Gary Morris took two coach loads of excited people to London for a boat trip down the Thames. All was in aid of Chestnut Tree House Charity. It was a very success and everyone had an excellent time. We took some pics of the build up, pictures on the boat were hard to take as we were having far too much fun! Total amount raised TBC.

Last Monday Crawley Happy Times were invited to the Hawth for the premier showing of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. A wonderful show with a great appearance from Craig Chalmers. We were lucky enough to meet Craig after the show, and even bumped into Mayor Brenda Burgess and her lovely husband Bob. A big congratulations to our competition winner Jane Tharby of Pound Hill, who won the family ticket to the show.

Shelley with Craig Chalmers

(L-R) Jed Scott Jones, Craig Chalmers, Casey Molloy, Sharon Fagence-Jones, Mayor Brenda Burgess

Brenda & Bob Burgess

Our Shelley was invited by the CICS (Celtic & Irish Cultural Society) to attend the annual dinner for the Arts Council. Also present were The Worshipful the Mayor Brenda Burgess and Councillor Bob Burgess. Held at the Crawley Club, the food was exquisite. Entertainment came in the form of the choir of Ifield Community College who were brilliant. Led by the one and only Patrick Allen, Head Music Teacher.

If you would like to get involved with the Arts Council, please email us your details editor@crawleyhappytimes.co.uk and we will be happy to pass them on.

We would like to thank the CICS for their kind invite and would like to wish the Arts Council all the best for 2010.

On Saturday 6th March Crawley Happy Times were invited to the Emerald Club in Southgate for the launch of the Crawley Fleadh. John Nolan and his fantastic committee were present along with Mayor Brenda Burgess, Councillor Bob Burgess and Henry Smith, leader of West Sussex County Council. It was a wonderful evening, full of traditonal irish music, dancing and food….oh and guinness, of course! The events in March can be seen on our site, so please do take a look.

Following on from the launch, Shelley went into town to see what was happening and to celebrate her husband Brian’s birthday. There was a young presence in the town, which we feel can be a bit ‘ruse’ but this did not stop us from having fun and enjoying the great tunes of The Punch Bowl and then on to see our friends at Bar Med.

Did CHT finger puppet go out this weekend? Oh yes! Do go to the ‘Where has CHT finger puppet been’ page for the gruesome details lol.

On Thursday 4th March Crawley Happy Times sent Shelley down to The Railway to see DJ Peet mixing some great heavy metal and rock classics on the decks. This was our second visit to The Railway and we were just as impressed. The Railway plays a vital role to those wanting a nice drink before moving onto a club in town. For a Thursday night, the pub was extremely busy. The staff were once again friendly and welcoming making a lovely atmosphere. We are pleasantly impressed with The Railway and would like to thank Jackie and her husband for their kind hospitality. Jackie, the Landlady, was very happy to meet CHT finger puppet which you can see here.

DJ Peet

Warm and welcoming Bar Staff

Jackie & Shelley had a great evening

The Railway is host to some amazing old pictures of Crawley, you must see them!

On Tuesday 2nd March Joanne Cooper and Sarah Cubitt invited Crawley Happy Times down to the launch of their new Zumba Dance Class. Personally we have never heard of Zumba so was unsure of what to expect. Well, we were blown away as were the other 109 people who turned up for a taster. The dance was fast and furious to say the least. Joanne and Sarah have never taught together but in our opinion made a fantastic pair of teachers who had the large audience in the palm of their hands.

Mark Blair said it was amazing

After, we spoke to a few of the participants and got their thoughts on the evening. Sheila, who told us she was ‘over 50′ said she thoroughly enjoyed it and had been taught by Joanne in the past. Mark Blair, 35, said “it was amazing. A fun way to get fit. I don’t take it too seriously which is the best way to enjoy it”. Sarah Harmsworth, 22, was joined by several sisters, her Mum and Auntie said she thought it was great fun and would definitely be coming again. There were so many different ages of men and woman that it didn’t seem to matter what shape or fitness level you are at, it is for everyone. We took some video and pictures for you, although the speed everyone was going at didn’t fair well with the camera

Sarah Harmsworth had great fun

On Saturday 27th February, Crawley Happy Times were invited to The Railway to relish in the sound that is The Age of Tapes.

The Railway was packed to the brim with local revellers including very friendly and accomodating staff. This was our first visit and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We bumped into our very good friend Carl Brooks who was once again busy raising money for The British Heart Foundation. Great work Carl! We took some pics and video of The Age of Tapes playing. It was a nice surprise to see our friends Stringloaded performing too.

VIDEO

PICTURES

Saturday 13th February we sent our Dan Hill down to Bar Med to see the exquisite and talented London Soul perform to their adoring fans and followers. London Soul are one of the best local bands in Crawley. They have been keeping the people of Crawley toe tapping for many years, including playing for the crowds in the town centre. Bar Med are always happy to be the hosts for London Soul, knowing good music when they hear it! Dan took some photos for you to enjoy. Were you there? Any feedback please comment below.

On Saturday 13th February, Crawley Happy Times went into town to hand out some delicious cake to the people of Crawley. Along with Dawn and her daughter from the Cha Tea Room based in the George Hotel and some Crawley Happy Time helpers, we handed out lemon drizzle, fudge brownies, bread pudding, fruit danish and date & walnut cake which were all very tasty indeed! If you wish to try these wonderful delights yourself, get down the the Cha Tea Room in the George Hotel and treat yourself!

On Friday Crawley Happy Times were invited to Bar Med in the Hight Street Crawley for an evening with Ricky Whittle who plays Calvin Valentine in Hollyoaks (although we remember him more for his brilliant role in Dream Team). Ricky and his friends were extremely entertaining, polite and very friendly to all who came to see them. In fact we would go as far as to say Ricky Whittle is one of the nicest TV personalities we have had the pleasure of meeting. His brother Chris was delightful and very hospitable, even though he did not know us. And of course, we have to mention Ricky’s dancing……..nice!

Our sincere thanks goes to Sam York, Manager of Bar Med and her lovely staff for what has to be one of the most amazing evenings so far!

CHT finger puppet made a small appearance, which you can see on here…

Pictures

Video

 

5th February, ‘10

We have not been out and about alot lately so we are looking forward to getting back in the swing of things. If you have an event you would like us to promote for you (for free of course) just email us with the details. If you have an event you wish CHT to attend please call 01293 572182 or email editor@crawleyhappytimes to discuss.

We did attend the Apple Tree on the 29th for the Charity night sponsored by our friends at The Crawley News. The Worshipful the Mayor Brenda Burgess and Councillor Bob Burgess were present and having a great time enjoying the bands and friendly atmosphere. MP Laura Moffat was also present encouraging donations to St Catherines Hospice.

We took some pictures for you to enjoy.

Saturday 19th December, ‘09

The day we had been waiting for came at last! Today was the day London Soul were playing their Christmas gig at Bar Med. And what a gig it was. London Soul are an extremely talented Crawley band playing soul and blues in the best of ways. We popped down to see them and took some video footage for those who were unable to make it.

It was a fun filled evening with great entertainment. Sums up what Crawley and it’s community are all about

Monday 14th December, ‘09

On Monday young Russell Jacob wrote to us via our Facebook page (Crawley Happy Times) about an event at the Pelham Buckle. We here at Crawley Happy Times are happy to attend any event which is positive and this was no exception. In aid of Cancer Research, the evening was not to be missed, so we happily sent Shelley down to check it out. Shelley writes: We were welcomed by Steve, the landlord. Steve told us this was the fourth such like event and they were proud to be raising money for such a great cause. The Pelham Buckle is a sports bar predominantly, in particular, football. So it was no surprise to find two famous ex Chelsea players as the guests of honour. Ron ‘Chopper’ Harris and Peter ‘The Cat’ Bonetti. It was a lovely evening and fantastic to meet two awesome football players. Ron and Peter have both played over 700 games for Chelsea and Peter was goal keeper for England in the 1970 World Cup. There is an event coming up in April which we are sure any avid Chelsea supporter will want to know about, so keep an eye out or you can visit this site…

Of course, CHT finger puppet made a special guest appearance to say hello. Our friend Russell is slightly attached to CHT finger puppet, but we don’t mind You can see the pictures here…

Peter 'The Cat' Bonetti and Ron 'Chopper' Harris (L-R)

Peter gets passionate and technical. Not unheard of for a football fanatic

Football fans speak to Ron and Peter about their time on the pitch

Friday 11th December, ‘09

Shelley from Crawley Happy Times took CHT finger puppet into town to see what was going on. We popped into the Punch Bowl which was heaving! Unfortunately we felt the evening was slightly disjointed, if you know what we mean. We have a theory on this. There were alot of groups out for their Xmas work parties so most people had already had a few drinks over dinner. Our theory is if everyone get’s tipsy elsewhere then joins other people who have also gotten tipsy elsewhere, mixing on the same level can be hard to do. Probably a load of rubbish, but think about it Anyway we did get to meet some lovely people, as always. Then it was off to BarMed to see our friends Sam, Mark and the lovely doormen.

The Parkhouse Crew on their Xmas bash (think CHT finger puppet got in on the act there)

The Bucking Bronco at Bar Med attracted those who thought they could stay on....but couldn't

A very psychedelic picture of Bar Meds resident DJ Mark Elliott 'Strike the pose'

Bar Med have some great events and offers coming up for December and the New Year

Thursday 10th December, ‘09

We were invited down to The Jar Jar Bar to say hello to the wonderful Cherry-Fly who was accompanied by a friend Funk da Fogs who played some excellent old school tunes along side our Cherry-Fly’s usual toe tapping happy house mixes. We had a wonderful evening, thank you to those who contributed to making it a fantastic evening out in Crawley.

The Jar Jar Bar 10th Dec, '09

Cherry-Fly and Funk da Fogs at the Jar Jar Bar

Great to see Del out and about and smiling again

The bar staff at The Jar Jar Bar were welcoming and friendly

A fun filled evening at the Jar Jar Bar

We were visited by three lovely gentlemen all dressed in their uniforms, from the Fire Station. They were in the town along with the Police with their anti drink drive campaign. It was so cold last night but there these dedicated servicemen were, trying to keep us all safe and handing out leaflets and flashing armbands. The message was very clear, DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE! You can read more about this here… While we were taking their pictures, the call came through and the Firemen were off, back to the station to do their duty. How amazing are these people! Thank you to all the servicemen and woman who keep us safe and well xx

Neil & Peter offering advise and safety bands

n example of what can happen if driving while drunk is on your mind

The wonderful work these Firemen do should not be about attending a crashed drunk driver!

Our local dedicated Firemen showing us the dangers of drink driving

Monday 7th December, ‘09

Today was the Charity Family Christmas Concert on behalf of Crawley Shopmobility with the Crawley Millenium Concert Band hosted by the County Mall. What a fantastic evening it was. The band played some wonderful christmas favourites and some new and exciting tunes from film classics such as Grease and Pirates of the Caribbean. Attended by the Worshipful the Mayor Brenda Burgess and Consort Bob Burgess, the event definitely put us all in the christmas spirit. The event was well attended by the community of Crawley who were more than keen to join in on some of the carols. Crawley Happy Times were honoured to be sponsors (along with many others) of this event.

Crawley Millenium Band at the County Mall

The Choir were amazing

Millenium Concert Band entertained us with some great musical pieces

The Millenium Concert Band are lead by Musical Driector Sall Hartly

Wednesday 26th November, ‘09

On Wednesday Joe Pasquale came to perform at the Hawth Theatre in Crawley. Joe, a well known performer both on the stage and on TV put on a fantastic show. Probably best known for his squeaky voice and funny comedy acts, Joe had the audience eating out of his hand! Let’s not forget Joe’s time in the jungle too! After the performance, Joe took time out to speak to fans, giving extra attention to some wheelchair bound fans. If you missed Joe this time round, we suggest putting a reminder in your diary for next year, or keep an eye on here for future appearances. In our excitement the pictures we took did not come out great, but here they are anyway.

Joe Pasquale giving time to speak to some fans who were wheelchair bound

Joe Pasquale joked with his fans

The Outfit at Bar Med

The Mayor Brenda Burgess takes time to speak to some attendees

MP Laura Moffatt with one of our heroes

It was a very moving two minutes. Shelley got to speak to some lovely people. One gentleman told Shelley about how he feels our boys and girls should not be fighting the current war, whereas two other gentlemen told Shelley they think any war is worth fighting if it made our country safer and helped others at the same time. Very different views but all the same, they were all present to remember! There were plenty of tears from the crowd. Very moving.

In our eyes, today is also a celebration for all those who did return to their families, wealding heroic tales and honoured by medals. Let us be grateful to those who returned and respectful to those who came home injured. We thank you for your bravery, which to this day, keeps us the great nation we have always been

An amazing show of medals showing real bravery & heroism

Another hero proudly shows us his medals

Friday 6th November, ‘09

On Friday Shelley & Michelle had the honour of interviewing Dave Whithouse from the Phil Collins Tribute Band who were performing at the sell out concert at The Hawth.

The band members are from Horsham bar one, who is a Crawley man. It was a pleasure to speak to and meet the band. They are really lovely people who are passionate and professional about what they do. Together they are called ‘No Jacket Required’ which for those who may not know, is the name of one of Phil Collin’s best selling albums. For anyone who may have missed this amazing band, keep an eye out for future dates, coming soon!

Tribute band 'No Jacket Required'

We then went to the Wingspan to enjoy the wonderful array of fireworks. There were loads of people who came along and it all went with a ‘bang’. The Wingspan opened up the two rooms (normally seperated by a big partition) and put on a disco (which we thought was excellent, a great mixture of good tunes). There was a hog roast and good beer on tap. Well done to Jo and all the staff at the Wingspan for putting on such a splendid evening

Friday 30th October, ‘09

It was off to the Half moon to see The Analysir, Curly Debs and DJ Mac play their sets. Always a great night to attend. We believe they are playing again next Saturday, so don’t miss it!

DJ Mac showing off his talents on the decks at the Half Moon

The Half Moon providing great music from The Analysir, Curly Debs & DJ Mac (pictured here)

We then made our way to the Wingspan where we had the pleasure of listening to Ray Owen’s Juicy Lucy band play. We took some footage for those who were unable to attend.

Afterwards we made our way to The Tilgate where we heard DJ Gordon Skeggs was playing. Gordon is a renowned DJ in Crawley, originally playing at the Roller Disco, many moons ago. Still got it though Gordon!

Gordon Skeggs playing at The Tilgate, Crawley

Thursday 1st October, ‘09

This evening we nipped into town to see our Cherry-Fly spin her decks at the Ja Ja Bar, High Street Crawley. The staff were wonderful and very polite and friendly. The atmosphere was revelling with great tunes and happy customers

Cherry-Fly is a new addition to the Ja Ja Bar, and we feel they have made an astute move bringing such a talented female DJ to entertain.

Cara Ryan has worked at the Ja Ja Bar for 6 months and told us Cherry-Fly is a refreshing addition to the Ja Ja Bar. This type of music makes a nice change. Penny Dryer has worked at the Ja Ja Bar for over 2 years now and told Crawley Happy Times “I think it’s really good. It’s nice to have a female DJ here, and she is cute too!”.

Stephanie Lewis (aka Fuzzy Lishush) was present in support of her friend Cherry-Fly and said “it’s a great fortnightly event which is going to cement itself as a regular Thursday haunt for Crawley’s finest, who appreciate good music”.

Cherry-Fly plays at this event every other Thursday. Cherry-Fly’s next appearance will be Thursday 15th October, ‘09. Try not to miss out on this wonderfully talented young lady. Once she is famous, we will not get so much time with her now will we x

We took some pictures for you to sample.

Gorgeous bar staff (L-R) Cara Ryan & Penny Dryer

Cherry-Fly bringing some class to the Ja Ja Bar

Thursday nights have been transformed into a great night out, at the Ja Ja Bar with the one and only Cherry-Fly on the decks

Friday 25th September, ‘09

Shelley & Becky from Crawley Happy Times were invited down to the Brewery Shades public house in Crawley to experince the new resident DJ, Sweetbeatz. We also had the priveledge of having a chat with Nicki Cheek, Landlady of the Brewery Shades for the past eleven years!

We found ‘the Shades’ (as locals refer to it) has grown from it’s past history of being a bit off sorts to being welcoming and friendly. There were alot of young people sat around tables chatting and generally having a great time. The new DJ seemed to be making his mark too. Playing some great uk garage, funky house, reggae. hip hop and R’N'B, we found Sweetbeatz to be very natural and talented.

The Brewery Shades is a landmark in Crawley Town

Sweetbeatz on the decks at the Brewery Shades

VIDEO – Interview with Nicki Cheek, Landlady of the Brewery Shades

Friday 25th September, ‘09

Crawley Happy Times popped down to the 107 Clubin the High Street, Crawley to see Judge Jules play.

Although the visit was brief, The Judge made his mark. His enthusiasm and professionalism exuded in the music he played. It was a pleasure to shake his hand and speak to him briefly. A really nice man, and and good on the decks too. Here are some pictures, but we apologies for the darkness. We also took some footage of The Judge for you to watch.

This amazing picture was donated by Jace Ren, Professional Photographer

The Judge, close up

Colourful view of Judge Jules

DJ Heaven Sent

Sweetbeatz now playing at the Brewery Shades