Posts Tagged ‘Shelley Fagence-Traynor’
Monday, July 18th, 2011
Henry Smith MP is highlighting Cancer Research UK’s work in the South East and backing the charity’s bid to make Crawley a thriving environment for medical research.
Henry met Cancer Research UK’s doctors, scientists and supporters from London and the South East at a special reception at Westminster recently.
Around five people are diagnosed with cancer every hour in the South East* but the good news is that thousands of mums, dads, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters across the region are alive today thanks to research into cancer.
Henry said:
“I was keen to find out more about work funded by Cancer Research UK in the South East. I feel proud that research in the South East makes such a significant contribution to the fight against cancer. It’s heartening to know that by supporting Cancer Research UK’s work local people could be making a big difference to cancer patients here on their doorstep.
“I am pleased that this Government has committed to investing an addition £200 million into to cancer drug research and to provide the funding needed to deliver 1,200 additional specialists involved in cancer services by 2012. Despite opposition, the national health fund will be boosted by £11.5 billion over the next four years which will go some way in supporting the work of organisations such as Cancer Research UK.”
Harpal Kumar, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, thanked Mr Smith for his support, saying:
“Cancer Research UK is working hard in every region of the UK to beat cancer. Ninety per cent of the population live within 30 miles of a laboratory or hospital where we’re funding life-saving research.
“We welcome the Government’s recent commitments that will help us with the research we fund in the NHS. We now want the Government to involve Cancer Research UK in planning for the future of medical research in the UK.”
People in the South East who take part in Race for Life make a huge contribution to Cancer Research UK’s work by raising vital funds.
As the Race for Life series draws to a close for 2011, Cancer Research UK is asking participants to make all the fun and emotion of the big day count – by returning the money they have raised to the charity, where it will be used to fund research which saves lives.
To find out more about Cancer Research UK’s work and how to support the charity please visit www.cancerresearchuk.org.
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
• *All cancers (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) diagnosed from 2006-2008 in the South East Government Office Region
• For further information about Cancer Research UK’s work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 0203 469 6699 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org
Tags: CHT, County council, Crawley, crawley happy times, Crawley MP Supports Local Life-Saving Cancer Research, Henry Smith MP, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, Updates
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Saturday, July 16th, 2011
Young people aged between 8 and 15 can take advantage of free athletics taster sessions at K2 Crawley on 21st August.
The Aviva Startrack event is a great way for children to have their first taste of athletics in a fun environment.
The free sessions, from 10am-1pm, will include all aspects of athletics with children encouraged to run, jump and throw – the three main skills required of any athlete.

Participants should come appropriately dressed for physical activity and be prepared in case of bad weather and bring a drink. Still water and juice are good but fizzy options are not recommended.
Aviva Startrack has been running for more than 10 years, offering thousands of children the chance to try out athletics with trained athletic coaches.
World heptathlon champion, Jessica Ennis, joined the Aviva Startrack scheme as a 10-year-old and credits it as one of the key experiences that led to her passion for athletics today.
Councillor Lenny Walker, Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture Services, said: “This free athletics session at K2 Crawley will give youngsters a great opportunity to have fun while doing exercise.”
The free session is limited and places will go quickly. To book your place Please Register via the Aviva Athletics Academy website www.uka.org.uk/academy.
Please arrive 15 minutes before the session start time.

Tags: Aviva Startrack, Councillor Lenny Walker, County council, crawley happy times, FREE - Startrack Athletics Session, Information, K2, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Friday, July 15th, 2011
Sign up for Crawley Landlords’ Forum
Private landlords are being encouraged to sign up to attend the Crawley Landlords’ Forum and take a free place at the next meeting.
The Crawley Landlords’ Forum will meet in the Exhibition Room at Crawley Library on 4th August from 6-7.30pm.
The evening will feature expert speakers offering advice and information on credit unions, insulation grants and making property suitable for renting in the private sector. There will also be an update from the National Landlords’ Association.
The forum, which was set up in 2009, is held twice a year and is a partnership between Crawley Borough Council, private landlords and agencies working in the private rented sector.
Councillor Lee Gilroy, Cabinet member for Housing, said: “The Crawley Landlords’ Forum provides a great opportunity for landlords to network and share experiences, meet Crawley Borough Council officers and learn more about the role the council plays in supporting the private rented sector.”
Places are limited. Please confirm your attendance by contacting Becky Gostick on 01293 438939 or emailing rebecca.gostick@crawley.gov.uk
Tags: children, County council, Henry Smith MP, Mayor Lee Burke, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, Sign up for Crawley Landlords’ Forum, Updates
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Thursday, July 14th, 2011
Henry Smith was pleased to learn today that the Big Lottery Fund has decided to invest almost £30,000 in local community projects.
Henry said:
“Historically Crawley community projects haven’t done very well in winning lottery grants but I’m delighted that’s changing following a campaign I’ve pursued to highlight the possibilities which exist through the lottery. The latest awards are very encouraging.
“If local voluntary groups or charities need further information on how to bid then I would be happy to help them make the right connection with the Big Lottery Fund.”
The Crawley Youth Centre has been awarded £9,750, the Crawley District Scout Council has been awarded £9,100 and Milton Mount Primary School has secured £10,000 to build a children’s adventure play trail for the local community.
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
How the Money will be spent
- The Crawley Youth Centre will use the funding to set up a new BME community club for older women, offering participatory activities such as games and excursions. It will also develop an existing club to include younger children, the groups will merge together on excursions. This will encourage younger children to engage with society at an earlier stage while offering older people a meeting place to socialise.
- The Crawley District Scout Council will use the funding to purchase equipment to provide activities to young people and will also renovate the scout hut. This will enable the group to improve its service and enable more community groups to use the facilities.
- Milton Mount Primary School will use the funding to create a children’s adventure play trail for all the community to use. This will promote fitness, provide challenges and opportunities for team building for the children within the school and the wider community.
Tags: Big Lottery Fund, children, CHT, Community, county, Crawley, crawley borough council, Crawley MP Welcomes Crawley Community Projects On Big Lottery Win, Mayor Lee Burke, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, the hawth, West Sussex
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Thursday, July 14th, 2011
This morning in the House of Commons the Business Secretary, Vince Cable, joined with Crawley MP, Henry Smith, in congratulating Crawley-based Virgin Atlantic Airlines and Central Sussex College for their work in creating new apprenticeships for local people.
Henry said:
“I’m delighted that the Business Secretary during Commons Questions paid tribute to Virgin Atlantic’s creation of 42 engineering apprenticeships along with Central Sussex College administering a further 900 apprenticeships, both in Crawley.
“The Business Secretary responded by honouring these two organisations as having helped in boosting the number of apprenticeships offered in Crawley by 62% over the past year.
“This significant increase in Apprenticeship opportunities goes some way in explaining why figures released from the Office for National Statistics yesterday show that the private sector has added 520,000 jobs in the last year. Only yesterday I was able to announce 170 new local jobs with Ceres Power and last month 600 new jobs with Siemens.
“Crawley jobs and Crawley skills are on the move again.”
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
Tags: county, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Crawley MP Honours Local Apprenticeship Schemes In Parliament, Happy, Information, MP Henry Smith, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Wednesday, July 13th, 2011
Learning difficulty plans discussed by Committee
Proposals to transform West Sussex County Council services for adults with learning difficulties were discussed by Members last week.
The Adults’ Services Select Committee received a report outlining how the service will be looked at over the coming years.
In addition to the changes to the eligibility criteria already agreed, there are five other areas of proposed change being looked at:
• Decommissioning the Alinora Crescent respite service in Worthing and re-providing the service elsewhere.
• Commission supported living services in a more cost effective and efficient way.
• Possible outsourcing of the County Council’s Supported Living Service.
• Review and remodelling of learning difficulty community health and social care teams.
• Review and remodelling of learning difficulty day services.
Chairman Irene Richards said: “The Committee emphasised that we want to be involved in any proposals that come forward at an early stage, so they can be fully scrutinised and to allow us to input into the decision making process.
“Officers assured us that those who use the service will be fully consulted at all stages on the proposals as they are developed.”
The learning difficulties service is funded by the County Council and NHS West Sussex. Any savings identified for the County Council would also apply to NHS West Sussex.
Tags: Allan Hambly, Community, crawley happy times, Learning difficulty plans discussed by Committee, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex, West Sussex County Council services
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Wednesday, July 13th, 2011
Volunteers needed to help deliver meals
Do you have a few hours spare to help out in your community? If so, West Sussex County Council’s Meals on Wheels service needs you.
The service, which is run by the WRVS, is looking for volunteer drivers to deliver meals between 11.30am and 1.30pm in their own areas. It could be once a month, once a week, or every day, depending on how much time you have.
Meals on Wheels supplies a great selection of hot, chilled or frozen two-course meals to adults in West Sussex, who may be leaving hospital or recovering from an illness, or need the meals as they can no longer cook for themselves.
As a delivery driver, you would need to have your own car, and undertake a CRB check.
The service is also looking for people to accompany the drivers on their deliveries.
Peter Catchpole, County Council Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said: “The service Meals on Wheels provides is vital to the people of West Sussex.
“If you have a spare lunchtime while the children are at school, or a day off college, or perhaps you’re now retired, why not do something rewarding and help out in your community?”
There are seven Meals on Wheels kitchens located throughout West Sussex:
• Bognor Regis (also covering Chichester and the Witterings)
• Crawley (also covering East Grinstead)
• Mid Sussex (also covering Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Steyning and Henfield)
• Horsham
• Worthing (including Lancing, Shoreham, Southwick and Fishersgate)
• Rustington (also covering Arundel, Ferring and Littlehampton)
• Petworth (including Midhurst and Pulborough)
• Selsey
For more information, call 01903 231341.
To see a little bit of what the Meals on Wheels Service does, view this video http://tinyurl.com/5tf22qq
Tags: Allan Hambly, charity, Chichester, children, County council, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, Volunteers needed to help deliver meals
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st July from 12 noon
The Hawth Grounds, Crawley
It’s back and better than ever, with more free family fun. This year the Mela has an Eastern theme with Eastern European acts including the 15-piece Gypsy Stars band and a magical Indian dance production from the Ramayana’s Deception in the Forest episode. Performed by stilt dancers the piece will involve local Bharatnatyam dancers as well as well-known UK artists such as Sid Shaha. There will also be traditional Ghanan drumming from Kakasistsi.

The community stage this year is packed full of great local acts including Bhangra from Jai Khan, grime/pop music from Grizzly South and dance from Shaun Angel Dance Academy and Rhythm High Dance Group on Saturday. On Sunday you can look forward to the beautiful voice of local singer Grace Saif, a Zumba display, Black Orchids Belly Dance team and local dancers Monica and Friends and Anouska and Shreeya. If you would like to perform on the community stage this year, whether you are part of a choir, a street dance team of a want to show off your African drumming, whatever your act contact Liz Hart on 01293 438156 or email liz.hart@crawley.gov.uk

There is also the usual range of workshops to look forward to, with an Eastern European exhibition, a Far East area with Japanese calligraphy, origami and Shiatsu massage, an Indian Zone with sari dressing and henna; origami and Shiatsu, hair beading and braiding by Urbanchic and Black History exhibition in the African zone plus Children’s Arts and Crafts in the Elgar Room.
2011 also brings better and more varied international foods than ever, with stalls catering to Indian, Caribbean and Nepalese tastes among others; and an expanded retail bazaar for bargain-hungry shoppers.
For a weekend of family fun, don’t miss Crawley International Mela! For more information visit www.crawleymela.org
Admission: Free
Saturday 30th July – Main Stage – Crawley International Mela
Schedule for Main Stage Performances
| Time |
Acts |
Description |
| 1345-1400 |
Opening procession |
Led by Jugnu Bhangra Dholis: The Mayor, Community leaders and sponsors |
| 1400-1430 |
Opening Ceremony |
and multifaith prayers |
| 1430-1450 |
Jugnu Bhangra I & Dance |
Probably the UK’s most experienced and accomplished Bhangra performers, this internationally-known group returns to the Crawley Mela for another inspiring show. See their homepage for more information and videos. |
| 1450-1510 |
Belly Dancing |
Babybliss Melissa |
| 1515-1530 |
Ramayana Promenade |
Spectacular stilt dance presentation of the ‘Deception in the Forest’ episode with Sid Shaha and others (seeCommunity Stage for more information). |
| 1530-1545 |
Bollywood Dance |
Diva Dance Group – Saraasa |
| 1545-1600 |
Jugnu Bhangra II |
As above |
| 1600-1630 |
Iffy-K Bhangra/Urban/HipHop |
With three highly successful albums under his belt (‘Emotions’, ‘Sohniyeh Teri Surat’, ‘Rhythm on Fire’) and international singles, Iffy-K shows the experience gained from working with famous producers such as Hunterz, Tiger Style, Kam Frantic, D-Boy, Kami K, Jawad Haider, Sangra Vibes, Cheshire Cat, Pala Uppal, Ali Mustafa & Sohail Abbas (Pak), and Rajeev Bhatt (India). Performing in Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and English, Iffi is an exciting artist performing Internationally and throughout the UK. |
| 1630-1730 |
Navin Kundra |
Singer, songwriter and musician Navin Kundra is a chart-topping (BuzzAsia, Sunrise Radio) multi-talented performer whose music combines eastern and western influences with a contemporary and edgy progressive sound. Whether it is the soulful love song, ‘Tere Liye (For You)’ or the contagious electro-pop ‘Jee Le’ or the urban fusion of ‘Love Thing’, Navin utilises his ability to effortlessly flip from singing and writing in Hindi to English to Punjabi whilst playing the guitar or piano to create an unforgettable musical experience. Check it out atNavin online.com. |
| 1730-1830 |
Khan Brothers Qawwali |
Ustad Haji Ameer Khan and brothers come from one of the Indian sub-continent’s most ancient and respected musical families, now one of the few groups in Britain singing traditional Qawaali, the intense devotional style associated with Sufi Muslims, well-known in the west due to the success of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Check out performances including Crawley 2010 onGoogle. |
| 1900 |
Main Stage Close |
Saturday 30th July – Community Stage – Crawley International Mela
Schedule for Saturday Community Stage Performances (more to come):
| Time |
Who |
Performing |
| 1400 |
Opening Ceremony |
Main Stage |
| 1415 |
Street Urban Dance |
Zumba and Salsa |
| 1430 |
Marcin Szymcyzk |
Vocals, keyboards |
| 1450 |
Shaun Angel Dance Academy |
Crawley based street dance team |
| 1510 |
FIPA Stilt Dancers |
“Deception in the Forest” – ancient Ramayana tale narrated by FIPA Choreographer Hi Ching |
| 1535 |
Jai Khan |
Essex based Bhangra dance and vocals |
| 1550 |
Bilal Shahid and dancers |
Northampton based Grime/RnB/Rap |
| 1610 |
Jai Khan |
Essex based Bhangra dance and vocals |
| 1615 |
Rhythm High Dance Group |
Croydon based Bollywood dance group |
| 1635 |
Planet Gnawa |
African Fusion Band |
| 1735 |
Rhythm High Dance Group |
Croydon based Bollywood dance group |
| 1745 |
Delaney |
HipHop Vocals |
| 1800 |
Phantom |
Grime M/C |
| 1815 |
Grizzly South |
Grime MCs |
Sunday 31st July – Main Stage – Crawley International Mela
Schedule for Main Stage Performances
| Time |
Performers |
Information |
| 1400-1500 |
FireTones |
Classic 60s Rock – check out their website athttp://www.firetones.co.uk/ |
| 1500-1600 |
Gypsy Stars |
Traditional Eastern European music and dance |
| 1600-1700 |
Kakasitsi |
Master drummers of Ghana, see our home page. |
| 1700-1800 |
Sunday Driver |
Victorian Raj/Steampunk Fusion Band, tracks, gigs and more athttp://www.sundaydriver.co.uk. |
Sunday 31st July – Community Stage – Crawley International Mela
Schedule for Community Stage Performances (more to come):
| Time |
Act |
Performance |
| 1330 |
Jaynes Zumba |
Zumba/African/Salsa demo |
| 1350 |
Black Orchids |
Belly Dancing Troupe |
| 1405 |
Monica & friends |
Local dance team |
| 1415 |
Rare Urban Gems |
Vocals and dance team |
| 1425 |
Tribal Fusion Belly Dance Solo |
Belly Dancer |
| 1435 |
Grace Saif |
Crawley singer songwriter |
| 1450 |
Shaun Angel Dance Academy |
Crawley based street dance team |
| 1505 |
Anouska & Shreeya |
Local Bollywood dance team |
| 1515 |
Desi |
Local bhangra dance team |
| 1525 |
Brydon |
Local M/C |
| 1550 |
Marysia |
Polish band and vocals |
| 1640 |
Redzz |
London based Hip Hop/R&B |
| 1700 |
Malwina |
Crawley-based Polish singer |
| 1715 |
Chagos Archipelagos Rainbow Youth Club |
Chagos Dance team |
| 1735 |
Cross Currents |
Multicultural band |
| 1810 |
Portugese Musicians |
Traditional vocals and music |
Tags: children, county, CRAWLEY INTERNATIONAL MELA 2011, Information, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Crawley Circus Festival & Kettle of Fish at The Hawth
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th August

Join in the fun as the circus comes to town. The Hawth offers the perfect weekend for juggling and circus enthusiasts from Saturday 6th August to Sunday 7th August. The English garden party themed festival also includes the incredible Kettle of Fish Circus Cabaret. The show brings its usual blend of talented contemporary circus performers to Crawley for one night only on Saturday 6th August at 7.30pm.
There will be lots to get involved with over the weekend including workshops and games plus festival-goers can demonstrate their skills at the renegade show.

Kettle of Fish
For those who prefer to sit back and watch, Kettle of Fish brings international acts to the stage for a thrilling night of circus skills including one of Europe’s finest and most innovative jugglers, Rod Laver with his oral ping pong. Rod recently smashed the world record by juggling 8 ping pong balls with his mouth and has appeared several times on the BBC’s Let Me Entertain You. Also taking to the stage is Carlos Romero with his virtuoso manipulation and another appearance for Isis and Nathan, after their success last year.
reference book celebrating the greatest jugglers of all time ‘Virtuosos of Juggling’.
Those attending the festival is heartily encouraged to wear fancy dress, think Rule Britannia, vicars, cricketers, tea ladies, morris men, Chaphoppers and ukuleles….and bring lots of cake!
You can book tickets for Kettle of Fish on its own or purchase a weekend ticket for the Circus Festival which includes entry to Kettle of Fish.
Weekend tickets: £25 (Under 12s: £18) (The weekend ticket includes Kettle Of Fish Circus Cabaret and camping (otherwise £5 per tent).
Day Tickets: £9 (Under 12s: £6.50)
Under 6s are free if accompanying weekend ticket holders, but must be booked in advance.
Book before August 1st and save up to £5!
Call The Hawth Box Office 01293 553636 to book your tickets now or visit www.hawth.co.uk.
Tags: Allan Hambly, CHT, Community, Councillor Lenny Walker, Henry Smith, News Bulletins, ROLL UP ROLL UP - Crawley Circus Festival & Kettle of Fish at The Hawth, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex County Council
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Carbon cutting success for K2 Crawley management
Carbon cutting at K2 Crawley has helped Freedom Leisure obtain the Carbon Trust standard.
The not-for-profit organisation who manage Crawley Borough Council’s leisure centre was awarded the standard for the centres they run across the country.
An energy management plan drawn up by CBC and Freedom Leisure in 2009 helped K2 Crawley cut its carbon by eight per cent over the last two years.
Some measures introduced included fitting infrared sensors in stores and offices to make sure lights go out when rooms aren’t in use; removing unnecessary light fittings; installing electrical sub-meters which highlighted high energy use areas and a lot of raising staff awareness.
In 2009/10 energy use at k2 Crawley dropped by 8.1 per cent and saved £16,000 a year.
And 40 per cent of all electricity used and 27 per cent of heat used came from renewable energy.
Councillor Ken Trussell, Cabinet member for Environment, said: “It’s fantastic news for Freedom Leisure and Crawley Council. We’ve worked hard with them over the last few years to build a carbon cutting plan and implement the changes and it’s fantastic to see it working so well.
“Freedom are a great partner for the council and this standard shows not only their commitment to the environment but also how well Freedom and the council work together.”
Freedom Leisure is proud to join a respected group of 621 organisations that have achieved the Carbon Trust Standard since it was launched in June 2008.
Based on a rigorous independent assessment, the Carbon Trust Standard certifies that organisations have measured, managed and reduced their carbon emissions across their operations and are committed to reducing further year-on-year.
Jeff Hart MD of Freedom Leisure said: “Freedom Leisure is working very hard internally and with all its partners to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure we offer fantastic leisure facilities that operate at their optimum when it comes to utility consumption. The award of the Carbon Trust Standard shows all the hard work is coming to fruition.
Tags: Cabinet member for Environment, Carbon cutting success for K2 Crawley management, Carbon Trust Standard, CBC and Freedom Leisure in 2009 helped K2 Crawley, children, Community, Councillor Ken Trussell, Crawley, crawley happy times, Freedom Leisure, Jeff Hart MD of Freedom Leisure, Mayor Lee Burke, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Monday, July 11th, 2011
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL CABINET CHANGES
West Sussex County Council Leader Louise Goldsmith has made a series of changes to her Cabinet, which she says are designed to reflect key priorities for the authority.
The Environment and Economy portfolio has been re-named Communities, Environment and Enterprise, and will come under Lionel Barnard, Deputy Leader of the Council.
Lionel’s previous responsibility for Highways and Transport has become a separate portfolio and will be looked after by Pieter Montyn, who joins the Cabinet.
Louise said today: “The portfolio Communities, Environment and Enterprise is all about three very important policy areas.
“We are working closely with our local communities and are developing a really exciting ‘Big Society’ agenda to allow local people to come forward and help shape the type of services they feel are needed in their local area.
“Protecting our very special environment against the pressures of modern life is massively important to everyone living in West Sussex.
“Enterprise is all about our commitment to the economy and playing a strategic role in helping to create business growth and new jobs through our membership of ‘Coast to Capital’ the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
“A well maintained road network is another key priority for the County Council, which is why I have decided that there should be a specific Highways and Transport portfolio.
“Pieter has been a deputy to Lionel on highways issues so he brings a great deal of experience to this role. He has also been heavily involved in the work that has been taking place to assess the impact of reducing subsidies to bus operators.”
The changes do not increase the size of the Cabinet, but a new deputy to the Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport has been created to which County Councillor John O’Brien has been appointed.
Tags: crawley borough council, Hawth, Henry Smith MP, Local, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex, West Sussex County Council, WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL CABINET CHANGES
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Friday, July 8th, 2011
Go-ahead for Worth Road speed cushions and crossing
PROPOSALS to install eight sets of speed cushions and a signal-controlled Puffin crossing in Worth Road, Pound Hill, have been given the go-ahead by the East Crawley County Local Committee.
The cushions will allow wider wheel-base vehicles, such as fire engines, ambulances and buses, to travel over them without disturbing passengers or increasing response times.
The Puffin crossing will be at the junction of Crawley Lane. It will improve accessibility for pedestrians, especially school children and patients going to the doctors’ surgery located at the western end of Worth Road.
The proposals were drawn up by County Hall highways experts because of Worth Road’s poor personal injury record. In the three years up to March 2009, there were nine personal injury road traffic accidents – one fatal, two serious and six slight.
The scheme is scheduled to be implemented between February and May of next year.
Richard Burrett, Committee Chairman, said: “These measures are intended to improve road safety and especially to benefit vulnerable road users including pedestrians wishing to cross Worth Road.
“With speed cushions located throughout the length of Worth Road, average vehicle speeds are more likely to be contained within the 30mph limit.
“The proposals were drawn up by the County Council’s transport officers following considerable consultation with residents and interested parties.”
Tags: children, Community, Crawley, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Go-ahead for Worth Road speed cushions and crossing, mayor, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex County Council
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Friday, July 8th, 2011
Community cash boost from Local Committee
THREE community groups have received a cash boost from the East Crawley County Local Committee.
They are:
• The Environment Centre – £1714 towards education sessions in local schools.
• 7th Crawley Scout Group – £1270 towards items of storage equipment for garages they have renovated.
• Three Bridges Forum – £500 for artwork and leaflet production, plus the purchase of an oak sapling to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
The money comes from the Committee’s Community Initiative Funding, which is cash it receives from West Sussex County Council to support groups that enhance their neighbourhoods.
Committee Chairman Richard Burrett said: “We are always keen to hear from groups in East Crawley we may be able to help as they continue their valuable work in the community.
Tags: CHT, Community cash boost from Local Committee, county, crawley borough council, East Crawley County Local Committee, Henry Smith MP, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex
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Thursday, July 7th, 2011
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is supporting London Fire Brigade’s call for people to check if they own a BEKO fridge freezer that has been the subject of a safety warning.
Following several serious fires in the capital that have been linked to a faulty defrost timer switch in particular models of BEKO fridge freezers, people are being urged to check whether they own one of the affected models.
If you have a BEKO fridge freezer, you can check whether yours is affected by visiting Trading Standards website or BEKO
If you own an affected product, or if you are unsure if your product is affected, you can call their free phone number on 0800 009 4837 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday.
Jackie Boyle, Community Fire Safety Officer for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, said:
“In West Sussex, thankfully, we haven’t been called to any fires involving these particular models of fridge freezers. However, for those people who own a BEKO fridge freezer please check that yours isn’t on the list of potentially faulty models.
“What everyone can do to help protect themselves is to make sure they have a smoke alarm on every floor of their home and test them regularly.”
Tags: BEKO FRIDGE FREEZER SAFETY WARNING, Councillor Lenny Walker, crawley happy times, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex
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Tuesday, July 5th, 2011
Eight schools scoop Youth Cabinet Democracy Awards
EIGHT schools and colleges have been presented with Democracy Awards for encouraging young people to vote in this year’s West Sussex County Council Youth Cabinet and UK Youth Parliament elections.
This year, just under 10,000 young people from 18 organisations voted. Forty-five young people stood as candidates for the Cabinet, which is part of the County Council’s Youth Services, and the Parliament.
The candidates wrote manifestos on issues they considered important for young people and also on why they should get elected.
The Youth Cabinet, which is made up of young people from throughout West Sussex, introduced the Democracy Award scheme three years ago to encourage schools, special schools, youth wings and centres to get involved in the annual elections.
There are three levels of Democracy Award: Bronze (for at least 50% voter turn out), Silver (70%) and Gold (90%).
There were two Gold winners – Manhood Community College and Shoreham Academy –
and two Silver winners – Ifield Community College and Horsham’s Millais School.
Worthing College, Worthing High School, Burgess Hill School for Girls and
Barnham’s St Philip Howard Catholic High School scooped Bronze awards.
The schools and colleges received their awards at a prestigious ceremony hosted by Children’s Minister Tim Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, at the Palace of Westminster.
There was also a behind-the-scenes tour of the House of Commons and the House of Lords led by Henry Smith, MP for Crawley.
The awards were presented by Tim Loughton and Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Children and Families.
Tim Loughton said there was increasing central Government support for young people’s involvement in democracy and UK Youth Parliament.
Peter Evans said: “We’re committed further to continue working with all young people, to hear their views and take note of their ideas and suggestions.”
Hilary Maywood, Service Manager, West Sussex County Council Youth Support and Development Service, said the Democracy Awards reflect the huge amount of work done by teachers and youth workers to encourage students to lobby as candidates and vote as an electorate.
Tags: County council, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Eight schools scoop Youth Cabinet Democracy Awards, Hawth, mayor, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Monday, July 4th, 2011
Two online summer guides to events in Crawley for children and young people have been launched.
Go! Crawley Kids is full of exciting things to do across the town for children aged under 13. The 26-page online brochure includes fun activities around the town including parkour, football courses, skateboard, tennis, go-karting, arts and crafts, karate, golf, athletics and much, much more. A flyer advertising the website – www.crawley.gov.uk/gocrawley - will be delivered to all primary school children from today (Monday July 4).
For those aged 13 and over, the Go! Crawley Facebook page is their dedicated online space to plan their summer. The page – www.facebook.com/gocrawley – features up-to-the-minute news and information on what’s happening, when and where. Postcards and posters advertising the Facebook page will be in secondary schools today.
Discounts, free tickets and special offers will all be promoted on the Facebook page.
Chase Fitness, Community Arts Summer Schools, Community Tennis Courses, Crawley Play Service, Crawley Museum, Dynamic Adventures, Extreme Sports, Goffs Park Pitch ‘n’ Putt, The Hawth, Healthy Balanced Generation, K2 Crawley, SKF Karate, Tilgate Park and Nature Centre and Crawley Wellbeing are providing a wide range of things to do during the summer holidays.
Crawley Skate Park, Goffs Park, Tilgate Park and Nature Centre, K2 Crawley, Crawley Museum, Ifield Watermill, Chase Fitness, Crawley Rugby Club, The Hawth, the 3G Pitch at Broadfield Stadium, adventure playgrounds, Parkour Training Area and Oriel High School are among the venues for this summer of fun.
Councillor Lenny Walker, Cabinet member for Leisure and Cultural Services, said:” There are so many great events, courses and activities that are mentally stimulating and physically challenging, there are lots of opportunities to avoid boredom this summer holiday.”
If you’re under 13, pick up your Go! Crawley Kids leaflet from school, the Town Hall, K2 Crawley or The Hawth, or visit www.crawley.gov.uk/gocrawley
If you’re over 13 visit www.facebook.com/gocrawley

Mayor of Crawley, Councillor Carol Eade and Councillor Bob Lanzer, Leader of Crawley Borough Council, launching Go!Crawley with some of the children and young people used in the publicity
Tags: Community, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Go! Crawley launched, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Monday, July 4th, 2011
ACTION-PACKED OPEN DAY AT LITTLEHAMPTON FIRE STATION
It’s going to be an action-packed day in Littlehampton on Saturday 9th July when the Fire Station opens its doors for its annual Open Day.
Firefighters are inviting local residents to spend the day with them at the station on Maltravers Road where they will be putting on a whole host of activities and displays throughout the day.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service runs open days across a number of its county stations, offering a unique opportunity for people to get a rare peek behind the scenes of their local Fire Station, find out more about the role of the modern firefighter and pick up some really valuable fire and road safety tips.
With firefighting and rescue displays, a variety of stalls, bouncy castle, an array of children’s entertainment, raffle and refreshments, there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Colleagues from the Police and Ambulance Service will join fire crews on the day and there will be a host of vehicles and specialist equipment on display.
Watch Manager at Littlehampton Fire Station, Niall Cooper, said:
“Our Open Day is a great opportunity for the community to come and meet us and find out a bit more about what we do and how we are working with our local partners to make Littlehampton safer. We have also planned loads of fun activities with something for everyone, so bring the whole family and make a real day of it.”
The day runs from 10am until 3pm and Maltravers Rd will be closed for the duration. Entrance is free and any proceeds from the day will be donated to the Firefighters Charity.
Information on other upcoming Open Days can be found at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire or on our Facebook page.
Tags: ACTION-PACKED OPEN DAY AT LITTLEHAMPTON FIRE STATION, CHT, Community, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Maltravers Road, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire
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Thursday, June 30th, 2011
Speed cushions proposed for Worth Road
A PROPOSAL to install speed cushions and a signal-controlled Puffin crossing in Worth Road, Pound Hill, will be discussed at the next public meeting of the East Crawley County Local Committee.
The proposal is contained in a report drawn up for the Committee by County Hall highways experts.
The report says Worth Road has a poor personal injury record. In the three years up to March 2009, there were nine personal injury road traffic accidents – one fatal, two serious and six slight.
“The scheme is intended to improve road safety and especially to benefit vulnerable road users including pedestrians wishing to cross Worth Road,” says the report.
“With speed cushions located throughout the length of Worth Road, average vehicle speeds are more likely to be contained within the 30mph limit.
“A signal-controlled Puffin crossing will improve accessibility for pedestrians, especially school children and patients going to the doctors’ surgery located at the western end of Worth Road.”
The report proposes eight sets of cushions, which would allow wider wheel base vehicles, such as fire engines, ambulances and buses, to travel over them without disturbing passengers or increasing response times.
The crossing would be at the junction of Crawley Lane and there would be improved signs and white lines.
Richard Burrett, Committee Chairman, said: “The proposals we will be discussing have been drawn up by the County Council’s transport officers following considerable consultation with residents and interested parties.”
The meeting is being held on Tuesday 5th July in The Longley Room, Crawley Library, starting at 7pm.
Tags: CHT, crawley borough council, Information, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, Speed cushions proposed for Worth Road, West Sussex County Council
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Tuesday, June 28th, 2011
Six local talents selected to appear alongside
TV star Nigel Havers in Peter Pan at The Hawth
On Saturday 18th June budding young actors from across Sussex attended The Hawth in order to audition for a place in the cast of Peter Pan, which runs at the Crawley Theatre from Friday 9th – Saturday 31st December.

James Whitaker and Tom Clark (taller)
The standard of those who auditioned was extremely high and Executive Producer Jonathan Kiley had a difficult job selecting the boys to play the roles of Michael and John in rotation during the run.

Daniel Haynes-De Vita (white shirt) and Thomas Ball.
Following a morning of individual auditions the hopefuls were whittled down and those who made it through to the second round were asked to read extracts from the pantomime script, giving them a taste of what it could be like on stage this December opposite television star Nigel Havers.

Matthew and Daniel Willis
The lucky four selected for the roles of brothers John and Michael were Thomas Ball (aged 13, from Burgess Hill) and Daniel Haynes-De Vita (aged 14, Horsham) and real life brothers Matthew (aged 12) and Daniel Willis (aged 9) from Burgess Hill, a first for the producers, who have never cast real brothers in the roles before. The standard of those who auditioned was so high the producers were able to select a third pair of boys, who will act as understudies for the parts. This opportunity went to Tom Clark (aged 12) and James Whitaker (aged 10), both from East Grinstead.
The Hawth and the pantomime producers are delighted to have found six such talented performers to add to the cast of Peter Pan. The swashbuckling show is now complete with a fantastic cast to go along with the magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, comedy galore and stunning flying sequences this is a show not to be missed.
To hook tickets for this fantastic show call The Hawth Box Office now on 01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk.

James Whitaker, Tom Clark.JPG; Matthew Willis, Daniel Willis, Thomas Ball, Daniel Haynes De Vita with exec producer Jonathan Kiley
Tags: crawley happy times, Henry Smith MP, Information, mayor, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, THEY’RE PAN-TASTIC, Times, Updates
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Friday, June 24th, 2011
In advance of tomorrow’s Armed Forces Day 2011, Henry Smith MP takes the opportunity to say thank you to all those that are serving in the Armed Forces, their families, veterans and cadets and encourages all to show their support on the day.
Commenting on this week’s Armed Forces Day Henry said:
“”Today I’ve been pleased to take part in Armed Forces Day 2011 by meeting cadets and personnel at K2 – and even having a go at the training assault course the Army put up!
“Armed Forces Day is a great opportunity for us to show our appreciation for all those who wear the uniform, their families, veterans and cadets. We all owe a huge debt to our brave service personnel who work tirelessly keeping this country safe. I wish those attending a great day out and on behalf of all local residents to say a big thank you to our amazing Armed Forces.
“The Government is committed to providing for our troops. In the past year ministers have already doubled the operational allowance and introduced a pupil premium to help with the education of our forces children. I absolutely support these practical policies that show our commitment and gratitude to our brave forces.”
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
Tags: Crawley MP Encourages Residents To Show Their Support In Armed Forces Day, Henry Smith MP, Information, Local, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex
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