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Get creative with Cathy Brett at Crawley Library
Calling all young artists aged 11-14 – you have the chance to create your own book or comic characters with the help of a famous illustrator.
Cathy Brett, illustrator and author of teenage book ‘Ember Fury’, will be at Crawley Library on Wednesday September 15 at 5pm for a free workshop on illustration and creative writing and help participants design their own characters. Read more here…
County Council prepares for winter
The long, cold, dark winter evenings may not be drawing in just yet, but West Sussex County Council is already starting to make preparations to cope with a possible repeat of last winter’s severe conditions.
Thousands of tonnes of salt are being stockpiled at depots across the county ready to be used by the County Council’s fleet of 25 gritters. Read more here ...
Celebrate Black History Month in Crawley
Celebrate Black History Month this October in Crawley and find out more about the life and work of Mary Seacole.
The half-day introductory course has been organised by the West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service and takes place on Saturday October 2, at Ifield Community College.
It’s to mark Black History Month – which takes place every October to promote knowledge and celebrate Black History. Read more here…
Crawley Walking Festival 2010
The fifth Crawley Walking Festival explores many of the open spaces in the town and some of the beautiful countryside nearby.
Walkers will pass through the varied Wealden landscapes, with ancient woodland, heathland, historic parks and buildings.
The Crawley Walking Festival is organised by Gatwick Greenspace Partnership and Crawley Borough Council. Read more here…
Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex Makes Last Call for 2011 Queen’s Volunteer Award Nominations
The Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex, Mrs Susan Pyper, today made a final call for people across the county to nominate outstanding volunteer groups in their area for the 2011 Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, before this year’s 30th September deadline. Read more here…
Meet the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games hopefuls from West Sussex
You might not recognise all their names now, but in less than 700 days they could be some of the most high profile in the world, and all have one thing in common – West Sussex.
The county’s most talented sportsmen and women hoping to compete in the London 2012 Games are listed on the West Sussex-Ahead of the Game website. Read more here…
Find out how art steered young offenders away from crime
TEN former young offenders from West Sussex will showcase on Friday September 3 the work they created during an intensive six-week multi media course designed to stop them returning to crime.
They are holding an exhibition of their work at Horsham Youth Centre, Hurst Road, Horsham, RH12 2DN, between 7pm-9pm. Read more here…
By-Election Date Announced
A date has been set for a West Sussex County Council by-election.
Voters in the Maidenbower electoral division of Crawley will go to the polls on Thursday, October 7th to elect a new County Councillor. Read more here...
From ‘Coast to Capital’ working for businesses in the south east
Employers and local authorities, led by West Sussex County Council, have applied to the government to form a new Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
The partnership, working for the joint interests of business, would cover the whole of West Sussex, Brighton and Hove, the Gatwick Diamond and Croydon. Read more here…
Freedom for new café and gym
Freedom Leisure, managers of the K2 Crawley leisure centre, will take over the reins of the new Bewbush Centre café and health and fitness gym when they open in November.
Crawley Borough Council has chosen Freedom Leisure, a not-for-profit body, to let the building. The company has a wealth of experience running similar facilities across the south east. Read more here…
Tilgate Park gets high praise from Green Flag judges
Tilgate Park received its ninth Green Flag Award in nine years in July – and now the judges have given it another seal of approval.
The judges who toured the beautiful park earlier this year have sent the council a feedback report, which highlights strengths and weaknesses. Read more here…
Your chance to dance with West Sussex Youth Company
Calling all 14 to 21 year olds in West Sussex who are serious about dance.
You’re invited to audition for the West Sussex Youth Dance Company, which is looking for 15 male or female dancers to be part of two exciting projects the company has planned for the autumn term. Read more here…
‘Your Day. Your Say’ public meeting in Crawley
A public meeting on the future of day services and activities across West Sussex takes place in Crawley next month.
It’s part of West Sussex County Council’s ‘Your Day. Your Say’ public consultation, asking residents their views on a proposed new model for day services, including what type of day activities they would like to see available in the community. Read more here…
Turn over a new leaf this autumn at K2 Crawley with a new fitness class timetable.
‘Back to School’ means more new fitness classes at K2 Crawley this autumn. The new term is an ideal time to shake up your routine and have fun trying something new. K2 Crawley, run by the leading not-for-profit leisure trust Freedom Leisure, is investing in a new autumn timetable of activities starting from 30th August. Read more here…
Review of services for young people
Calling all groups and organisations who run activities and services for children and young people aged 10 and over in Crawley.
Crawley Strategic Youth Action Partnership (CSYAP) is looking at the services available to young people in the town. This review will focus on identifying where activities and services are available and what young people think of them. Read more here…
Free advice for landlords
Landlords who own property in Crawley can take advantage of a free advice service from Crawley Borough Council.
The council hosts pre-bookable 20-minute appointments with staff from the Private Sector Housing Team who can provide advice and information on property management. Read more here…
This September Freedom Leisure embraces Exercise4Life
Join the challenge, have fun and get fitter!
This September Freedom Leisure is encouraging local communities to get fit, have fun and participate in this year’s Exercise4Life, a UK wide event, which runs from the 1st – 30th September. Due to its popularity, the event has expanded from last year’s “Swim for Life” challenge, to now include seven sporting challenges; cycling, running, walking, hula hooping, dancing, Nordic walking and swimming. Freedom Leisure is encouraging Exercise4Life participants to complete their run, cycling or swim challenges at their local Freedom Leisure centre. Read more here...
Could you help children get to school safely?
West Sussex County Council wants to recruit more school crossing patrols – affectionately known as Lollipop men and women.
The patrols play a vital role in helping thousands of children cross the road safely to get to and from school every day. Read more here…
Gossops Green gets ready for event
A community event at Gossops Green Parade will have fun for all the family and give residents a chance to find out what’s happening in their neighbourhood.
Come to the Parade, which is supported by The Windmill pub and St Alban’s Church, also gives visitors to the parade an opportunity to meet their local councillors and Neighbourhood Policing Team. Read more here
Saving energy with UTILISE
Seven West Sussex businesses have received funding to improve their energy efficiency – meaning an annual saving of more than 73 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
It comes from the first round of UTILISE action grants. The funding is available to West Sussex businesses and voluntary and community organisations for energy saving projects. Read more here…
ST JOHN AMBULANCE DIRECTOR CHALLENGES BUSINESSES TO PUT FIRST AID ON CSR AGENDA
St John Ambulance South East Director Sabarah Cursons, wants employers to recognise first aid as a vital element of their corporate social responsibility, not just as a legal tick box, but as a way of reducing the number of unnecessary deaths. Read more here…
Friends clear and prune
The Friends of Broadfield Park held their latest clear up and pruning day on Saturday (August 21).
The group, along with Crawley Borough Council Amenity Services staff, pruned a large part of the decorative pear arch and removed lots of overgrown shrubbery. Read more here…
There’ll be rich pickings in your own back yard this autumn, gardeners told
GARDENERS in West Sussex are being urged to take advantage of the rich pickings that will literally be in their own back yard this autumn by getting a composter.
The call comes from Better Tomorrows, the independent community company that promotes sustainable living in the county, which has tied up with a manufacturer to offer bargain-priced composters. Read more here…
Improve your skills with adult learning
A series of information and enrolment events for adult learning are taking place across West Sussex for anyone interested in learning new skills and qualifications.
It’s a chance to find out more about the range of courses on offer through the West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service, from qualifications to help with job skills, to personal development such as arts and crafts to food and drink. Read more here…
Crawley Tigers to raise more cash for Pakistani flood victims
Crawley Tigers FC raised more than £4,100 for the victims of the Pakistani flood disaster by washing cars on Saturday (August 14) – but they’re not stopping there.
The local football club, fresh from cleaning lots of dirty cars at the mosque in Broadfield on Broadwood Rise, is supporting a six-a-side football tournament next month for leading charities. Read more here…
Help us keep you safe in bed this winter, say firefighters
YOU can book up now for free electric blanket tests being held in October by West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service to help ensure residents sleep safely this winter. Read more here…
Council support for Pakistani flood fundraisers
Crawley Borough Council is helping the town support the victims of the Pakistani flood disaster by making it easy to donate to the cause.
Anyone who wants to donate, including larger amounts generated through fundraising, can do so at the Town Hall or on the council website. Read more here…
West Sussex County Council hosts first Stonewall employee outside of London
Stonewall has chosen to place an employee at West Sussex County Council – the first time the charity has stationed someone outside of London.
Though Stonewall does have offices in Scotland and Wales the charity, which campaigns and promotes equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people, has placed Dave Small, Regional Workplace Associate for South East and South West England, in Chichester for a six-month trial.
Traditional market in Queens Square
Shoppers will get an extra chance to buy from Crawley’s traditional market from next week as it takes up a weekly residence in Queens Square.
The market will be in Queens Square on Wednesday 18thAugust between 9am and 4pm. Read more here…
Fancy yourself as a film star? Then audition for a new movie written by Crawley residents
Young residents tackle extremism head on
A film about extremism written by Crawley residents is being planned – and if you’re a budding movie star don’t miss the auditions next week.
Crossed Paths has been written by young Crawley residents who were previously involved in the cult local feature film, RH11. Read more here…
Cherry Lane Summer Fun
Kids are set for a fun-filled summer day at Cherry Lane Adventure Playground next week.
The Langley Green based playground is holding its annual fun day on Thursday 19th August between 11am and 4pm. Read more here…
Fake goods cost local economy thousands, say Trading Standards
The damage to the West Sussex economy from selling counterfeit goods is being highlighted by the County’s Trading Standards Service.
Following a consumer complaint, Trading Standards officers seized more than 700 counterfeit copies of well-known blockbuster movies in a raid at a boot sale in Sayers Common, Hassocks. The fake DVDs and Blu-ray discs were selling at £5 for two. Read more here…
Ofsted praises West Sussex adult learning service
West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service has been rated ‘Good’ in a recent Ofsted inspection, the second highest rating. Read more here…
Friends call for volunteers
Friends of Broadfield Park are calling for volunteers to help keep the area in tip-top condition.
The group met on August 5 where they agreed three more clear-up and pruning dates for 2010; Saturday August 21, Saturday September 18 and Saturday October 23 all between 10am and 1pm. Read more here…
Young volunteers blitz woods and park
YOUNG volunteers from Outset Youth Action spent a day clearing Laurel from Crawley’s Hawth Woods and Rhododendrons from an area of Tilgate Park. This clearing of invasive bushes will allow natural habitat to re-grow. Read more here…
Home care contracts to be reviewed
West Sussex County Council and NHS West Sussex will jointly be reviewing all home care contracting requirements across the county to look at long-term needs and how best to provide the service.
At present the Council and NHS West Sussex commission more than one million domiciliary care hours per year from more than 100 external organisations, at a cost of approximately £28 million. This means that there are significant variations in prices charged and capacity issues within the market. Read more here…
Recycling Rodins required
THE highly successful Better Tomorrows Sculpture Challenge, which aims to inspire young artists to create art out of recycled materials, will be bolder and bigger in 2011.
Better Tomorrows, an independent community company that promotes sustainable living, introduced the competition two years ago to highlight the potential for recycling. Read more here…
Awards for Crawley young volunteers
NEARLY 230 young people from Crawley have received awards for the voluntary work they carry out in their communities.
They were honoured at a presentation ceremony hosted by Outset Youth Action, the West Sussex Youth Volunteering Charity, at Lodge Hill, Pulborough. A total of 1464 young people received awards. Read more here…
Crawley to tackle its sticky streets
Crawley Borough Council is set to launch a major campaign to get to grips with chewing gum litter on the streets and pavements.
The council is one of 12 local authorities nationwide that have been selected to take part in this year’s annual campaign to reduce chewing gum litter, run by the Chewing Gum Action Group (CGAG). Read more here…
Beauty awards bonanza in Burgess Hill
More than 100 students attended the 2010 Student of the Year celebration event for beauty students in Burgess Hill.
The annual event at Marle Place, Burgess Hill, organised by the West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service, celebrates hair, beauty and complementary therapy students from the past year. Read more here…
Trading Standards seeking contact with Lancing holiday firm customers
FOLLOWING the death of the owner of two Lancing-based travel businesses, West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service is working to clarify the position for customers.
The companies are Leisurebreak Holidays and Leisure Breaks with A1, which were based in Station Parade. Read more here…
Poop scoop week success
Crawley Borough Council’s Community Wardens took part in a successful National Poop Scoop Week last week (July 26-August 1).
The wardens spoke to 108 dog owners in Tilgate and Goffs parks and handed out more than 600 poop scoop bags. They also gave three £50 fixed penalty notices for dog fouling on the outskirts of Tilgate Park – to the same man. Read more here…
Future of market towns top of the agenda
The importance of market towns was highlighted at an event hosted by West Sussex County Council at Lodge Hill in Pulborough last week.
The event was for local authorities, community partnerships and other interested parties, to discuss how they can the support market towns in the future. Read more here…
Tenants’ Festival
Tenants will have a fun chance to get involved and have their on Crawley Homes and council housing at a festival next month.
The Crawley Homes tenants’ festival takes place in Queens Square on Tuesday 10th August from 11am-3pm with food tastings, prize draws, mini DIY courses, crime prevention advice, arts and crafts for kids and all round family fun. Read more here…
Crawley first aiders braced for biggest challenge of the year
First aiders from Crawley St John Ambulance will be among a 120-strong band of St John Ambulance volunteers involved in a military style operation at this weekend’s Brighton Pride parade.
Kerry Weston is part of the charity’s management team for the event and Linda Weston, who runs Crawley St John Ambulance’s adult unit, will be in charge of one of the three medical treatment centres in Preston Park. Read more here…
New direction agreed for West Sussex Youth Services
A decision has been taken to re-shape West Sussex Youth Services to involve young people more in the way the service works.
The decision has been taken today (Friday) by West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Children and Families Pete Bradbury. Read more here...
Watchdog backs Youth Services proposals
A COUNTY Hall watchdog has backed a range of proposed changes to West Sussex County Council Youth Services, which will also achieve savings of £2 million. Read more here…
Back to the future for Worth Park
Crawley Borough Council has been awarded a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant to restore Worth Park. Read more here…
Energy use at K2 Crawley has plummeted over the last two years making it a greener place to get fit and have fun.
This month the state-of-the-art leisure centre received a good C rating for energy use compared with its poor G rating in 2008
The good news comes after 18 months of hard work following an energy management plan drawn up by Crawley Borough Council and Freedom Leisure; all the savings will help the council hit its 10:10 target of reducing carbon emissions by 10 per cent in 2010. Read more here…
West Sussex Buy With Confidence scheme teams up with Which?
THE Buy With Confidence scheme run by West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service to protect consumers from rogue traders has forged a link with Which? Read more here…
Green Flag hat-trick for Crawley
Three of Crawley’s attractive parks have again been awarded the prestigious Green Flag.
Beautiful Tilgate Park has received the award for the ninth consecutive year while Goffs Park, in Southgate, and the Memorial Gardens in the town centre have picked up their third Green Flags – the national standard for quality parks and green spaces. Read more here…
Green day at Goffs
The Friends of Goffs Park are having a green day on Wednesday August 4.
The fun starts from 5-7pm with a plant swap. Visitors can meet at Crawley Museum to exchange surplus plants. Read more here…
Major resurfacing and maintenance work planned for the A24
A £1 million scheme to resurface large sections of the A24 between Horsham and Findon is due to start on Monday August 9.
The West Sussex County Council project will also involve various road maintenance works including tree cutting, crash barrier repairs, bus stop improvements, hedge trimming, renewed road markings and sign improvements. Read more here…
Adults’ and Children Executive Director to retire after 13 years
West Sussex County Council Executive Director of Adults’ and Children services John Dixon is retiring at the end of the year, after 13 years in charge.
John’s career at West Sussex County Council began in 1997 when he was appointed Director of Social Services. In recent years he has been Director of Adults’ Social Services and then Executive Director for Adults’ and Children as well as Deputy Chief Executive. Read more here…
Sports award helps promote new East Grinstead 10k event
EDF Energy Networks has stepped in to help an athletics club promote the first East Grinstead 10k event by providing funds for new running vests and T-shirts. Read more here…
New look FireBreak success for Crawley students
ELEVEN young people marked successfully completing a pilot new-look FireBreak course at Crawley Fire Station with a passing out and awards ceremony on Friday July 16. Read more here…
Conservation signage goes in at beauty spots
Signs explaining the diverse flora and fauna of two of the town’s beauty spots have been installed.
Large, interpretational signage is up at Target Hill local nature reserve in Broadfield and Waterlea Meadow in Furnace Green. Read more here…
French Market on its way
A little slice of France is coming to Crawley.
The French Market will set up its stalls in Queens Square from Friday July 30 to Sunday August 1, as part of Crawley Borough Council’s and Crawley Town Centre Partnership’s desire to bring more vibrancy and diversity to the shopping area. Read more here…
Countywide playgrounds project put on hold
Twelve modern-style play areas due to be built across West Sussex have been put on hold after the Government said it planned to review the nationwide project. Read more here….
Summer camp cash boost for youth centre
LANGLEY Green Youth Centre has received a £3300 grant from West Crawley County Local Committee towards the cost of this year’s summer camp. Read more here…
Rise to the Challenge and celebrate London 2012 Open Weekend
The two year countdown to the London 2012 Games will be marked in spectacular fashion in West Sussex this weekend, between Friday July 23 and Sunday July 25.
The theme of this year’s nationwide Open Weekend is ‘challenges’. There will be around 15 events across the county, and each has a special challenge for everyone to enjoy. Read more here…
Foreign policy debate
Young Crawley residents had the chance to question a senior Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) diplomat at The Hawth last week (Friday July 9). Read more here…
Bloom Boom Crawley
A trail of metre-high fibreglass flowers painted by Crawley students will form a town centre trail for children in the summer holidays.
Students from six secondary schools have painted 40 flowers in a campaign organised by Crawley Borough Council, Crawley Town Centre Partnership and Ginger Moo gallery in County Mall. Read more here…
Have your say on historic buildings list
What have Bar Med, St Alban’s Church and The Oaks Primary School all got in common? All three could be added to Crawley’s local list – and Crawley Borough Council wants residents’ views.
The local list is a list of buildings and structures that have local architectural or historic interest and make a valuable contribution to making Crawley distinctive. Read more here…
Scoop the poop, say Community Wardens and Dogs Trust
Crawley Borough Council’s Community Wardens are taking part in National Poop Scoop Week from 26th July-1st August.
The wardens, with the Dogs Trust, will be raising awareness of the issues surrounding dog fouling in the borough and are urging dog owners to pick up the poop and help clean up our public spaces for a great summer outdoors. Read more here…
Driving course that could save lives this summer
Parents, employers and young people can act to help save lives on the roads this summer.
Figures show more than 1,000 17-25 year olds are killed in road crashes in the UK every year. They make up only 10 per cent of driving licence holders, but are involved in 20 per cent of all road traffic accidents. Read more here…
EIGHT mini eco-warriors from across Crawley have had their ‘green’ artwork turned into banners to support the town’s entry into the Britain in Bloom finals and the council’s 10:10 pledge. Read more here…
Scrutiny committee asks for more information on Youth Services review
West Sussex County Council’s Children and Young People’s Services Select Committee has voted to hold a further meeting before giving its views on a review of the county’s Youth Services.
Members of the scrutiny committee discussed the review and its various options yesterday (Wednesday) during a webcast meeting at County Hall. Read more here…
Public consultation on day activities to begin in August
West Sussex County Council wants your views on what day services and activities across the county should look like in the future.
The Developing Day Activities Project focuses on older people and working age adults who have a physical or sensory impairment, or acquired brain injury. Read more here…
‘AIMING HIGH’ GRANTS – CABINET MEMBER’S REASSURANCE
West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member Pete Bradbury has made it clear that the ‘Aiming High for Disabled Children’ grant fund is to continue during the remainder of the financial year.
The fund pays for short breaks for families with disabled children in West Sussex. Read more here…
Where to find a cure for the summertime blues
Crawley’s Buchan Country Park has found a cure for the summertime blues – an action-packed programme of family events.
Be down to earth with ‘Earth Explorers’ on Tuesday August 10 from 2pm to 5pm. Families can explore the heath and woods of the park. Read more here…
Nationwide success for West Sussex drugs drive
A WEST Sussex-wide online drugs information drive aimed at young people has come third in Crimebeat, a nationwide crime-fighting competition run by the High Sheriffs of England and Wales. Read more here…
County Local Committees join forces to look at health issues
County Local Committee (CLC) members from Mid Sussex, Crawley and Horsham will come together for a special meeting to look at health issues on Tuesday July 20th.
Experts from NHS West Sussex, Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust and West Sussex County Council will give updates and answer questions on a number of topical health issues. Read more here…
Bewbush Centre structure complete
A ceremony to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity and good luck marked the final stages of regeneration in Bewbush last week.
The ‘Topping Out’ ceremony at the brand-new Bewbush Centre in Dorsten Square celebrated the structural completion of the impressive five million pound multi-use community facility. Read more here..
Local Committee to hear Fire and Rescue Service improvement plans
THE draft improvement plan drawn up by West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service will be the headline item at the next public meeting of West Crawley County Local Committee.
The meeting, which is being held in the Longley Exhibition Room, Crawley Library, Southgate Avenue, on Thursday July 15, between 7pm-9pm, will hear a presentation from Max Hood, County Fire Officer. Read more here…
Crawley Craft Fair
Crawley Craft Fair returns to Queens Square on Saturday (July 17) from 10am-4pm.
This exciting event, now in its second year, features work from many local and UK artists. Visitors will be able to browse and buy unique quality local crafts while children’s activities include face painting. Read more here…
Fire and Rescue Service consultation begins next week
WEST Sussex County Council will begin consulting next Monday (July 19) on a proposed draft improvement plan drawn up by its Fire and Rescue Service following extensive research.
The draft is designed to update the Fire and Rescue Service and ensure it has the right resources in place to make sure West Sussex is a safer place in the 21st century. Read more here…
Free Entitlement to early years childcare permanently extended from September
A scheme piloted last year in West Sussex to help families give their children a head-start in education will be made permanently available from September. Read morte here…
Air Alert
The summer is definitely here and although the sun puts a smile on most people’s faces the warm weather can affect air quality and agitate lung problems.
Crawley Borough Council is a member of Sussex Air and urges people with asthma or other lung problems to register with the Air Alert scheme. Read more here…
New Direction For West Sussex Youth Services Takes Shape
A new-look for West Sussex County Council’s Youth Services is beginning to take shape following a consultation with young people, staff, partners and residents. Read more here…
Crawley Council to honour four war heroes
St John’s Church, High Street, Crawley
Today @ 2.45pm
Crawley Borough Council will have the names of four war heroes from the town etched into a war memorial following requests from the men’s families. Read more here…
Go! Crawley launched
A summer guide to events in Crawley for children and young people has been launched.
Go Crawley! is a guide full of exciting things to do across the town, including parkour, football courses, trampolining, climbing wall, skateboard, swimming, tennis, BMX, street dance, go-karting, arts and crafts, karate, golf, athletics and much, much more. Read more here…
Sheltered Housing tenants get Wii – ly fit for tournament
OLDER people at a Crawley Council sheltered housing scheme are in training for an early virtual Olympics after receiving an extra special gift from council contractors, MITIE. Read more here…
Westminster date for Democracy Award winners
STUDENTS from 19 West Sussex schools and colleges received prestigious Democracy Awards at Westminster’s Portcullis House, opposite the House of Commons. Their hosts were local MPs Peter Bottomley and Tim Loughton. Read more here…
Farmers’ market returns this Sunday
Crawley Farmers’ Market returns this Sunday (July 11) from 10am-4pm.
Shoppers will be able to sample delights from more than 20 stalls in Queens Square with meats, vegetables, cheeses and much more to choose from. Read more here…
Be on track with Buchan Country Park
Search for signs of wildlife at Buchan Country Park in Crawley on Friday July 16. Read more here…
Hot spell leading to countryside blaze danger, warn firefighters
PEOPLE are being urged to take extra care when enjoying a day in the country during the current hot spell.
The call comes from West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service, which is seeing an increase in calls involving grass and forestry blazes and cases of controlled burning that have got out of control. Read more here…
Latest guide to traders you can trust now available
MORE than 300 local businesses that have been comprehensively vetted by West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service are listed in the latest edition of the Approved Traders Directory 2010, which is now out. Read more here…
Have wheels – will travel…to Mongolia!
EDF Energy has stepped in to help two men realise their dream of completing a 10,000-mile overland trip to Mongolia.
Paul Diviney, a project co-ordinator with EDF Energy Networks in Crawley, and his friend Matthew Haycock will set off later this summer on a journey that will take them on the road trip of a lifetime, through more than 25 countries all the way to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. Read more here…
Eat Out. Eat Well
A health conscious Crawley Borough Council team is set to award local eateries that provide healthy options.
The Food Licensing and Occupational Health Team all passed level two training in nutrition and special diets to prepare for the launch of a new scheme – Eat out. Eat well. Read more here…
Crawley Adults’ Services have moved.
The social workers currently work in Centenary House, Woodfield Road, Crawley. They moved to the third floor of Crawley Library, Southgate Avenue, today (Monday July 5). Read more here…
Calling all voluntary groups
Voluntary and community sector groups can set up shop in the brand new Bewbush centre when it opens in November.
Crawley Borough Council is asking interested groups to get in touch if they would like to hire desks and make themselves easily accessible to the public. Read more here…
New kit will help young footballers brave the elements
Training in the harsh winter months will be a bit more bearable for the boys at a Basingstoke football club, thanks to a £250 grant from EDF Energy Networks. Read more here…
Turning rubbish into a resource – West Sussex County Council seals its greenest deal
WEST Sussex County Council has sealed its greenest ever deal – a 25-year contract with Biffa Waste Services for the long-term management of household waste that cannot be recycled. Read more here…
Committee hears plans on developing day services
The proposals to develop day activities for older people were heard at the latest West Sussex County Council’s Adults’ Services Select Committee on Tuesday June 22. Read more here…
West Sussex wildlife sites are important
Thirteen new Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs) have been designated in West Sussex and six existing ones have been extended.
The sites cover different habitats in the county, ranging in size from restored areas of heathland to large diverse wetlands and rivers. Read more here...
Soar into space this summer
It’s all things cosmic at our Libraries this month, when the FREE Summer Reading Challenge kicks off on Saturday July 17.
This year’s theme is ‘Space Hop’. Children aged four to 12 are challenged to read up to six books from their local Library and collect different awards at each stage, including a hologram membership card, a pull-out poster and ‘scratch and sniff’ stickers. Read more here…
We don’t want to be invited to your barbecue, say Firefighters
MAKE sure we’re not unwelcome guests at your barbecue, say firefighters from West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service.
Jackie Boyle, Community Fire and Road Safety Officer, said: “We want people to enjoy themselves this summer. But there hasn’t been a significant amount of rainfall for quite some time now and the conditions are dry. Read more here…
Have your say on transport in West Sussex
Would you like to see more buses and fewer cars on the road? Could more be done to promote walking and cycling? How can traffic pollution levels be reduced in West Sussex?
All these questions and many more are being considered in the new Local Transport Plan, which is being prepared by West Sussex County Council. Read more here..
West Sussex Unveils Five Point Plan To Deliver Savings
West Sussex County Council has unveiled a five-point plan designed to deliver savings over the next three years as the detailed implications of the coalition government’s emergency budget are studied. Read more here…
Crawley Homes moves forward
THE COUNCIL is providing a ‘much better’ service to Crawley Borough Council tenants according to the latest Audit Commission inspection.
The inspectors carried out their audit in March rating the council’s housing management department, Crawley Homes, as ‘fair’ with promising prospects (one out of a possible three stars) – a huge improvement on the previous inspection. Read more here…
Barbados stay in Crawley for hockey warm-up
Crawley’s relationship with the Barbados Olympic Association has paid early dividends, with the country’s hockey teams staying at the Arora International Hotel this week. Read more here...
YOUTH AWARDS 2010
THE YOUTH Awards 2010 is underway and anyone can nominate an inspirational young person from the town.
Now in its sixth year, the awards aim to celebrate and recognise young people who have made a real difference to Crawley and its community. Read more here…
CRAWLEY ENCOURAGED TO RECYCLE AND REUSE DURING RECYCLE WEEK
The people of Crawley are being encouraged to recycle and reuse during Recycle Week which takes place between 21 and 27 June 2010.
Recycle Week aims to raise awareness of recycling and reuse(insert link to recycle now home page) and encourage people to waste less in order to reduce the amount of waste which goes to landfill. Read more here…
Recognition for extraordinary volunteers
Dedicated St John Ambulance members from across Sussex will have their extraordinary dedication and service to their local communities recognised at a special awards evening this week. Read more here…
Parents urged to learn first aid for children’s sake
Parents in Sussex are being urged to learn first aid so they know exactly what to do if their child is injured in an accident.
At the launch of national Child Safety Week, St John Ambulance in Sussex is inviting parents, carers and anyone else who looks after children to equip themselves with the skills which could be the difference between a child’s life being lost or saved. Read more here…
High energy team clears Interfaith Garden
A team of 18 volunteers from EDF Energy Network worked alongside Crawley Borough Council officers at the Interfaith Community Garden in West Green Park on Thursday June 17 – Green Britain Day. Read more here…
County Council to consult on proposed changes to Fire and Rescue Service
WEST Sussex County Council will be consulting throughout the summer on a proposed improvement plan drawn up by its Fire and Rescue Service following extensive research.
The plan is designed to update the Fire and Rescue Service and ensure it has the right resources in place to make sure West Sussex is a safer place in the 21st cent. Read more here…
Get the learning bug – new brochure out now!
Take up a new challenge this year and get the learning bug – there’s more than 2,000 courses on offer across West Sussex to suit all ages and abilities.
The West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service 2010/2011 programme is out now. Read more here…
History walk
This Wednesday (June 23) the Crawley Museum Society is conducting a history walk around Goffs Park.
The walk starts at 7pm from Crawley Museum in Goffs Park House. Everyone is welcome to join in. There will be a charge of £1 for Friends of Goffs Park and £2 for non-members. Read more here…
Students FACE it!
Students from Central Sussex College vocational skills programme worked alongside Crawley Borough Council officers at The Hawth on Wednesday (June16) planting flowers, weeding and litter-picking. Read more here..
Waste less and win
Crawley Borough Council is offering residents the chance to win top eco prizes if they make a green pledge during Recycle Week (June 21-27).
This year’s Recycle Week theme is to recycle small electrical items that we all have stashed away in the back of cupboards and drawers. Residents who make a green pledge could win a DAB clock radio with iPod dock or an eco kettle. Read more here…
LEADER-ing the way in Sussex
Nearly £1 million has been granted for 40 projects supporting the rural economy and communities in Sussex over the past year.
The help is available thanks to the LEADER programme, which brings together local farmers, businesses and community representatives to identify how local actions can meet the needs of their areas. Read more here..
Celebrate learning in Crawley
Celebrate adult learning and find out about the range of courses on offer at an event in Crawley next month.
West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service is holding the ‘celebrate adult learning’ event at Crawley Bandstand on Thursday July 8 between 11am and 2pm. Read more here…
Gatwick Task Force Welcomed
West Sussex County Council has welcomed the Government’s decision to set up a group tasked with improving operations at major South East airports including Gatwick. Read more here...
Music filled the air in Crawley
Crawley was filled with the sound of music on Saturday June 12, when a 40-strong choir met for the first time at The Hawth Theatre.
Singers of all abilities took part in a taster session for the unique open-air ‘Whispering Woods’ choral event to be held at Tilgate Park, on Sunday September 26. Read more here…
Cook up a storm to celebrate Sussex Day
Calling all school children – Do you fancy yourself as the next Jamie Oliver or Nigella Lawson?
If so, here’s a competition for you. Read more here…
West Sussex Children and Family Centres support Breastfeeding Awareness Week
Children and Family Centres across West Sussex are backing National Breastfeeding Awareness Week (June 21-27).
The week aims to promote the healthy benefits of breastfeeding and to increase its social acceptance. Read more here…
Council helps Crawley Festival go with a bang
Crawley Borough Council has stepped in to provide cash-strapped Crawley Festival with a grant of £1,000 – just days before it begins.
The council, which already supports the Crawley Festival to the tune of £8,317, has decided to top this up by another £1,000 from its grants budget. Read more here…
Vision in Youth Collective GET INVOLVED!
Vision in Youth Collective (ViYC) is a group for young people aged 14 to 25 who advise Crawley Borough Council’s Arts Service on events for young people and actively promote them to their peers. Read more here…
Giving West Sussex young people the best opportunities in life
The new Children and Young People’s Plan 2010-2015 has been launched.
West Sussex Children’s Trust hosted an evening at the Charmandean Centre, Worthing, to celebrate young people’s achievements and issued a challenge to ensure the plan is delivered. Read more here…
Children’s entertainer helps Sitting Service celebrate 10th birthday
CHILDREN’S entertainer Dave Benson Phillips will be the special guest at a picnic being held on Saturday June 26 to mark the 10th anniversary of West Sussex County Council Sitting Service, which helps the parents of disabled children to take a much-needed break for a few hours. Read more here…
Day Activity plans outlined by County Council
West Sussex County Council has outlined plans for day activities in the county under the Developing Day Activities Project.
The initial proposals will go to the Adults’ Services Select Committee at its meeting on Tuesday June 22. Read more here…
Future Jobs Fund gets underway in West Sussex
More than 70 young people have started in paid work across West Sussex under the Future Jobs Fund initiative and there are more jobs available. Read more here…
No substitute for recycling this World Cup
Crawley Borough Council is urging residents to remember to recycle during the World Cup.
The month-long football tournament will see lots of food and drink purchased, much of it packaged in recyclable material. Read more here…
Crematorium bus route needs passengers
Bereaved residents unable to drive could soon have no public transport to the crematorium unless more people use the service.
Bus route 11 started running in June last year after Councillors Carol Eade and Keith Brockwell lobbied Metrobus for a service to the Surrey and Sussex Crematorium on the Balcombe Road. Read more here…
Your Chance To Inspect The County Council’s Accounts
Members of the public can take a look at West Sussex County Council’s accounts for the year ending March 31, 2010.
The accounts, including those of the pension fund, will be available at County Hall, West Street, Chichester, from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday from Friday, June 25 to Friday, July 23. Read more here…
Saturday football for youngsters
If your youngster has World Cup fever why not enrol him or her on the Saturday Soccer courses, starting this weekend (June 19).
Crawley Borough Council’s Football in the Community Scheme is running the Saturday morning football sessions for children aged between four and 10 at the 3G pitch, next to the Broadfield Stadium. Read more here…
West Sussex calls time on Spanish timeshare scam
Nationwide letter scams from several Spanish businesses pretending to be based in West Sussex have been closed down by county trading standards officers. Read more here…
Innovative environment and climate change board meets for first time
An innovative project looking into environment and climate change issues in West Sussex has met for the first time. Read more here…
Issued on behalf of the West Sussex Lieutenancy: Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group recognised by The Queen with prestigious Award
The Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group from Selsey has been announced as one of 103 UK volunteering groups to win this year’s The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for volunteer groups. Read more here…
Poems and Pints
Come and enjoy readings of poems by local celebrities while enjoying a drink from the local pub at Goffs Park. Read more here…
Town twinning weekend
More than 100 people from Crawley’s twin town of Dorsten in Germany will be in the town later this month for 48 hours of sport and music. Read more here…
Still time for young people to give their views on community safety
THERE’S still time for young people aged 11-24 in West Sussex to take part in an online survey about community safety. Read more here…
Volleyball live on TV
Next weekend (June 19 and 20) K2 Crawley will host four international volleyball matches – and it will all be live on Sky Sports. Read more here…
Ecological building solutions
Sussex Building Control is hosting a sustainable homes training event for architects, builders, council employees and councillors. Read more here...
West Sussex County Council supporting the end of Elder Abuse
West Sussex County Council is supporting World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Tuesday June 15. Read more here…
West Sussex takes part in major national transport survey
West Sussex County Council is taking part in a major national survey to find out how people feel about local roads and transport. Read more here...
Winning business for London 2012
Another workshop for businesses keen to bid for London 2012 contracts will be held in West Sussex next month. Read more here….
****WHAT’S ON**** Read All About It – Crawley Library gets Festival Fever
To celebrate Crawley Festival from Saturday June 19 till Sunday July 4, the Library is hosting a range of event. Read more here…
What are you going to do this Sussex Day?
Sussex Day on Wednesday June 16 celebrates all that is good about our county – and there are plenty of things to do to mark the day. Read more here…
Explore Crawley’s Community groups Inside Out
A massive range of Crawley’s community groups will be showcasing their talents at a colourful event in the town centre on Sunday 13th June.
The Inside Out Festival will see more than 50 groups from across the town proudly demonstrating their skills to shoppers and visitors in Queens Square and the Memorial Gardens. Read more here…
Government praise for County Help Points and Contact Centre
The West Sussex Help Point Network, and the county’s Contact Centre in Bognor Regis, have both been told by the Government they have passed their first annual health check for excellence. Read more here…
West Sussex County Council Cabinet Starts Work
West Sussex County Council’s new Cabinet has started work after a series of appointments announced by new Council Leader Louise Goldsmith. Read more here…
CHARITY DINNER In aid of CRAWLEY OPEN HOUSE
Hosted by: Ex-Mayor of Crawley Cllr. Brenda Burgess
To be held at:The Copthorne (Gatwick) Hotel
Friday 25th June – 7pm for 7-30p ‘til 11pm. Read more here…
Watch ‘The Seed’ grow in time for London 2012
Preparations are underway to bring the world of virtual gaming to the ‘Great Gardens of Sussex’ in time for the London 2012 Games. Read more here...
Celebrate Sussex Day with Taste West Sussex
Celebrate the best of locally produced food and drink on Sussex Day, Wednesday June 16th, with the latest edition of Taste West Sussex – out now. Read more here…
Going airborne at Buchan Country Park for Sussex Day
Two events to mark Sussex Day are being held at Buchan Country Park in Crawley, starting on Saturday June 12.
From 2.30pm to 4.30pm, ‘Airborne Antics’ will teach the ancient art of kite making and French Arrows. Read more here…
Corn snake discovered at Buchan Country Park
An American Corn Snake has been discovered at Buchan Country Park. Read more here…
Food Safety Week
Crawley Borough Council’s Environmental Health Team will be holding a national Food Safety Week event on June 8th and 9th. Read more here…
‘A life of my own’ with Carers Week 2010 in Mid Sussex and Crawley
Celebrate Carers Week this June with a series of events in Crawley and Mid Sussex highlighting the vital role of carers. Read more here…
Crawley to tackle its sticky streets
Crawley Borough Council is set to launch a major campaign to get to grips with chewing gum litter on the streets and pavements. Read more here…
New County Council Leader On The Challenges Ahead
West Sussex County Council’s new Leader Louise Goldsmith spoke today (Friday) of the ‘major challenges’ that lie ahead. Read more here…
GET ON YOUR BIKES TO NYMANS
Get on your bikes and cycle to Nymans Gardens in Handcross for a fun-filled family bike ride.
Join the CTC (the UK’s national cyclists organisation) and Sustrans free guided ride on the national route 20 on June 6th. Read more here…
New fund launched to save money and energy
A new fund has been launched to help West Sussex businesses and organisations save money and reduce their carbon emissions. Read more here…
MEDIA INVITE: Sporty families egg each other on at Bewbush Children and Family Centre
Families will be trying to ensure they don’t get egg on their face during a celebration of National Family Week next week (Monday May 31- Friday June 4th). Read more here…
Chick-lit chat with Jane Green in Crawley Library
Spend a fun evening at Crawley Library with the Queen of ‘Chick-Lit’, Jane Green on Thursday June 3rd. Read more here…
Crawley Community World Cup 2010
As we all know the World Cup is being held this year in South Africa.
I could see an opportunity to capitalise on the build up to the World Cup and originally was planning to do this in Broadfield but could see the potential to hold this across the whole of Crawley. Read more here…
Up and a-weigh…how to avoid a small-scale problem
If you are flying up and away this summer weigh your luggage before setting out for the airport. That’s the advice from West Sussex Trading Standards Service. Read more here…
Crawley Library wins top architectural award
The new Crawley Library has won an award for architectural excellence, from the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects. The annual awards celebrate the best examples of new architecture in UK and Europe, designed by RIBA members. Read more here…
West Sussex singers needed to go the distance to London 2012
Singers of all abilities are invited to fill the air of West Sussex with music. Read more here…
Changes to on-street parking charges
After a six-year price freeze West Sussex County Council has reviewed the price of on-street parking. Read more here…
The new Mayor of Crawley is Councillor Lee Burke.
Councillor Burke was elected at the Annual Council meeting on Friday May 21. Read more here…
Swimming referral to boost health and wellbeing
One thousand residents are being offered swimming at no cost to help combat health problems. Read more here..
A fang-tastic event in Crawley
Best-selling author of the ‘Morganville Vampires’ series Rachel Caine will be at The Hawth Theatre, Hawth Avenue, Crawley, on Friday June 4 at 2pm. Read more here…
Crawley Council to honour four war heroes
Crawley Borough Council will have the names of four war heroes from the town etched into a war memorial following requests from the men’s families. Read more here…
*WHAT’S ON*: A Kingly visit for Crawley Library
Award winning entrepreneur Will King will be at Crawley Library on Tuesday June 8 at 7.30pm to promote his new book. Read more here…
Youth Cabinet makes it happen with It Happens
IT Happens, a Burgess Hill based teenage parents group, has teamed up with West Sussex County Council Youth Cabinet to produce a hard-hitting film showing what life is like for young mums and dads. Read more here…
Energy saving grants for businesses
Grants of up to £10,000 for energy saving projects are available for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and not-for-profit organisations in Crawley. Read more here…
Shelley is the Founder of Crawley Happy Times Online. We only publish good positive stories about the community's events whilst being informative on where and when to go out in Crawley. We live in a wonderful town, let's enjoy it.