School Closures in Crawley on Monday 6th Feburuary - Updated – 18:20 – 5/2/12
Currently there are no reported school closures.
Schools have been asked, where possible, to keep their own websites updated.
If you know of any schools that are not on the above list please Facebook Crawley Happy Times or email bry@crawleyhappytimes.co.uk
Rising fuel bills are stretching household finances and people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills.
Help is at hand through Big Energy Week (16th-21st January 2012) which is being run by Citizens Advice. This has received support from local MP Henry Smith who is encouraging Crawley residents to find the best possible energy deal, which is now easier than ever.
Henry commented:
“Fuel bills are a big worry for many people at the moment. I am pleased to support Big Energy Week and hope it will make a big difference to my constituents. Help is now on hand that can really help every one of us to reduce our fuel bills this winter.
“Therefore I’m very pleased that several of the big fuel companies have dropped their fuel prices by an average of 5% with immediate effect. The cost of gas imports is now falling and British Gas, EDF, EON, Coop and Ovo are passing these price decreases on to their customers. This will certainly be welcome to the hard working families of Crawley.
“Following a meeting between the Prime Minister and the heads of the big energy companies earlier this year, new services have been created that allow customers to accurately compare fuel providers. Ofgem has backed this up by announcing plans to simplify tariffs to make it easier for customers to know exactly what the price each provider is offering.
“Previously there were 400 tariffs to choose from and so I greatly encourage everyone to take advantage of this new simplified system to make sure they are getting the best possible deal. Combined with the help offered by the Citizens Advice and the Big Energy Week, I hope everyone in Crawley can in some way lower their energy bills this winter.”
Citizens Advice, Chief Executive, Gillian Guy added: “We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people’s budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our Bureaux helping people who can’t afford their fuel bills.
“We’re worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they’re not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them.
“More and more people are coming to us for advice on how they can save money on their energy bills. Through Big Energy Week we hope to help lots of people cut their fuel bills and ease their money worries.”
Follow Henry daily via: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp; www.youtube.com/user/HenrySmithMP; or www.henrysmith.info.
Sussex St John Ambulance is on the hunt for would-be paranormal investigators to take part in a spooky sponsored fundraising event at Newhaven Fort.
The ‘Spooktacular’ ghost hunt in aid of the nation’s leading first aid charity will take place on Saturday 22nd October at the 123-year-old fort where eerie encounters are frequently reported.
There have been many supernatural sightings at the fort, particularly in the tunnel leading to the beach. The sound of soldiers’ boots and air raid sirens are said to have been heard there and there are tales of a ghostly drummer boy who reportedly haunts this section of the coastline.
Sussex St John Ambulance County Fundraiser Jeanne Peterson: ‘This promises to be an unforgettable evening for anyone interested in the paranormal.
‘Of course there’s a fun side to it but the aim couldn’t be more serious. We need to generate donations to continue our life saving work in local communities – work which is very often the difference between a life lost and a life saved.’
It costs £39 to take part in the event but if you manage to raise £100 or more for St John Ambulance your ticket fee will be refunded.
The hunt takes place from 7.30pm on the Saturday until 2.30am the next morning. Hot soup will be provided and there’ll be an auction of paranormal investigation equipment.
A maximum of 40 ghost hunters will be guided in small groups by experienced paranormal investigators and a psychic medium.
Book online at www.compassparanormalevents.co.uk or call Compass Paranormal Events on 01558 292838.
St John Ambulance has more than 1,000 adult volunteers and more than 700 youth members in Sussex. Last year they devoted more than 168,000 voluntary hours to providing first aid cover at hundreds of public events across the county.
The charity receives no core Government funding and is not part of the NHS so relies on public support to help fund its vital first aid services.
To find out more about volunteering or fundraising please call 01273 371 500 or visit www.sja.org.uk/sussex
A ‘friendly’ re-match has been arranged between young people from the Escape Youth Project in Broadfield and Sussex Police.
The football matches – one for the under-16s and the other for the under-20s – are taking place on Friday 26th August.
The event is being organised by the West Sussex County Council run Escape Youth Project – a drop-in service which hosts youth facilities for 11 to 19 year olds on Sundays at Broadfield’s youth centre – and the police, in partnership with Freedom Leisure, Inspire Broadfield and Crawley Borough Council.
It comes after an initial match was held in April, which aimed to improve relations between the police and young people in the area.
The matches are being held at Broadfield’s 3G pitches, with kick-off at 12pm.
UPDATE - World War II grenade defused, flights only delayed for 9 minutes
Staff working for UK Power Network discovered what appears to be a World War II grenade whilst carrying out construction work close to Gatwick Airport.
As a precaution all construction work has been stopped and the British Transport Police has safely cordoned off the area.
The Explosive Ordinance Division are now in the process of carrying out a controlled explosion which, for safety reasons, will involve the temporary suspension of flights and train operations.
Inevitably this will result in disruption to flights in and out of Gatwick and to transport links serving the airport.
The Hawth has two children’s shows in the Studio this Autumn that are out of this world for little ones aged 3 plus.
A Bird In Your Ear gives young audiences the chance to enjoy a collection of stories that won’t be found anywhere else – because every crazy character and potty plot has been born from the endlessly imaginative minds of children from UK primary schools. Genies in teapots and hat munching squirrels are just a few of the characters you can look forward to seeing on Saturday 24 September at 2.30pm.
From the moment you step into the Studio be prepared to find clues to stories above, behind and all around you. Each story is brought to life with puppets, original songs and opportunities to jump on stage and join in.
On Sunday 2 October at 2pm & 4.30pm a little boy will be asking for the Way Back Home when he finds a plane in his cupboard. He doesn’t remember leaving it there, but he decides to take it out and have a go. He flies his plane higher and higher until he runs out of petrol and lands on the moon. He is frightened, lost and alone until a passing Martian lands there too. Who is the strange alien? Can they really be friends? And how will they find their way back home?
This exciting new production for young children and families has been created by the team behind the hit show Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive The Bus! and includes original music by the composers of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom.
Tickets for each show are £6.50 (Family of Four: £24). You can book by calling
01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk.
Be a rock star – with West Sussex Music Service
Did you play along to your favourite records as a teenager and dream of being in a rock band? If so, West Sussex Music Service (WSMS) can make that a reality.
WSMS Rock Academy will be holding adult rock workshops at Northbrook College, Worthing, on Thursday evenings, starting in late September. Keyboard players, guitarists, bassists, drummers and vocalists of all abilities can go along and play in a band-type format, with the chance to play a gig at the end of term.
Peter Griffiths, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Schools, said: “Our Music Service has been running the rock workshops for youngsters for several now, and they have been a great success.
“Now we are offering the chance for adults to expand on their musical skills, and perhaps re-live their love of music, as well as meet new people.”
The workshops will be held from 6.30pm to 7.30pm and 7.30pm to 8.30pm. They will cost £60 for 10 lessons.
For more information, contact 01243 642361 or email music@westsussex.gov.uk
Ifield Chestnut House – Cricket Day - Monday 29th August -Ifield Green Playing Fields
Ifield Chestnut House – Ifield Golf Challenge – Thursday 1st September – Ifield Golf Club, Ifield, Crawley
Ifield Chestnut House – 10k Challange + Family Fun Day + Elvis + Grand Raffle -first prize this year is £1,000 - Sunday 4th September – The Plough Ifield
Ifield Chestnut House raises money for local charities and projects including:
Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice.
www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/
Chestnut Tree House is the only children’s hospice in Sussex and cares for children and young adults from 0-19 years of age with progressive life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses from all over the county.
The Olive Tree Cancer Support Home
www.olivetreecancersupport.org.uk
The Olive Tree is an independent cancer support centre based at Crawley Hospital. They provide a drop-in centre, complementary therapies, counselling, information and support for cancer patients and their carers and families.
St. Catherine’s Hospice
www.stcatherines.co.uk/
St Catherine’s Hospice is a charity dedicated to providing specialised end of life care and support to local people and their loved ones.
Living in William’s World
raisingachildwithaseveremotordisorder.blogspot.com
| William was born 3 weeks early in February 2009 and suffered from a lack of oxygen which caused brain damage. The result of this is that he now has a severe dystonic motor disorder. |
Westy’s Wheeled Warriors
www.westyuk.co.uk/
| At the age of 19 Barry West was involved in a car accident which would change his life forever but he never stopped living life to the full and he hopes that the experiences in his life may inspire others. |
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Phil McIntyre Entertainment by arrangement with Vivienne Smith Management presents
The Hawth Crawley – Thursday 24th November 8pm
Following on from the success of his last tour Different Class, brilliant Irish comedy star, Ed Byrne, is back on the road with his new show Crowd Pleaser. The show toured extensively through theUK in the spring and had a month long run at theEdinburgh fringe and is back on the road due to enormous demand. Being a nerd, owning a cat, meeting your heroes or becoming a dad, whatever Ed casts his curmudgeonly comic eye over the end is result is a show that’s sure to please even the most discerning of crowds.
This promises to be an hilarious night you won’t want to miss.
Ed has been very busy since he last was on tour. His many TV appearances over the last couple of years have included hosting BBC1’s Live At The Apollo and being a regular panellist on BBC 2’s Mock the Week and Have I Got News for You as well as various other new comedy shows including Miranda Harts Christmas Unwrapped and has recently been see “roasting” Davina McCall for Channel 4. A particular highlight for Ed was taking part in Celebrity Mastermind. Ed is also a regular contributor to comedy and music shows on both BBC Radio 2 and 4. Last year he toured Canada and New Zealand with his sell out show Different Class.
Tickets at The Hawth: £20 – Call Box Office on 01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk.
What the papers said about Different Class
“a masterful display of the comics art…This is a seamless and perfectly timed show that could stand proudly next to any Izzard, Bailey, Carr or Skinner stadium-filler.” . ✭✭✭✭✭Sunday Times
“Byrne is at the top of his game” ✭✭✭✭The Sunday Telegraph
“Ed Byrne is a class apart” ✭✭✭✭ Evening Standard
“Jokes come so fast that hecklers don’t have a chance to get a word in edgeways” ✭✭✭✭ The Times
“It is rare for a comic to merit the word “masterful” but in this case it is no overstatement” ✭✭✭✭ The Scotsman
“At the height of his powers… It’s no wonder this is selling out nightly” The Observer
“His wit won deafening cheers and feet stomping” The Guardian
ED BYRNE SYNDICATED INTERVIEW – JANUARY 2011
By JAMES RAMPTON
For nearly two decades now, the comedian Ed Byrne has been pleasing crowds up and down the country. So it is quite appropriate that his new show should be entitled, “Crowd Pleaser.” He will be touring the country and playing to your crowd very soon – so prepare to be pleased!
Ed is a coruscating comedian. A stand-up who always strikes up a terrific rapport with his audiences, he is a magnetic presence on stage. Whether discussing the difficulties of being a nerd or owning a cat, he is one of the finest – and funniest – comics currently at work in this country.
That’s not just my opinion. The critics have been lining up to lavish praise on a comic at the very top of his game. The Evening Standard raves that, “Ed Byrne is a class apart.” The Scotsman declares that, “It is rare for a comic to merit the word, ‘masterful’, but in this case it is no overstatement.” The Guardian enthuses that, “His wit won deafening cheers and feet stomping,” while The Observer, er, observes that Ed is, “At the height of his powers. It’s no wonder this is selling out nightly.” Phew!
Ed and I meet for a cup of tea in a central London cafe in the snowy run-up to the tour. You can take my word for it – he is just as compelling and comical off-stage. Possessed of an effortless natural wit, the lovable, shaggy-haired stand-up jokes for instance that, “I was going to be talking to the British Humanist Society this afternoon about being good without God, but they’ve had to cancel because of the snow. It’s hard not to think that there are forces at work here …”
The comic says that he just can’t wait to hit the road with “Crowd Pleaser”. “You get this unrivalled buzz from playing live,” beams Ed, who had made a huge splash as a regular guest on TV panel games such as Mock the Week and Have I Got News for You. “When you’re on stage, you keep finding new lines. You keep getting better and improving, which is, of course, the same thing!”
The comic, who was nominated for the coveted Perrier Award at the 1998 Edinburgh Festival, expands on the theme. “There is this brilliant speech in the film Mr Saturday Night, which Billy Crystal’s character gives about what stand-up is. He says, ‘When it’s good, when it’s cookin’, you got ‘em, they’re yours. You can take ‘em anywhere you want, you’re powerful. You prowl the stage like a panther. It feels so good; the laughs go right into your blood. You can be a schmuck in the afternoon, but you’re the king of the night. And every woman wants to f*** you, and every man wants to know you.’ I don’t entirely go along with that last bit. If every woman wants to f*** you, then every man wants to punch you!”
So what can Ed’s myriad fans expect from “Crowd Pleaser”? The comedian discloses that he will be talking in this show about the recent arrival of his first child, a gorgeous baby boy, and seeing the funny side of his wife’s pregnancy. “I couldn’t wait to be a father,” deadpans the Irish comic, who has released two very successful live DVDS, “Pedantic and Whimsical” and “Different Class”. “I was desperate to get my wife back! The first three months of her pregnancy were like living with an alcoholic – ‘I feel sick, I need a wee, get out of my way!’
“She was also afflicted with pregnancy brain. She couldn’t remember the name for anything. It was funny when she met her father who has his own ‘senior moments’. Neither of them could remember the name for the hand of a clock. My mother-in-law and I bonded over the fact that we were shackled to a pair of idiots!”
Able brilliantly to mine his own life for laughs, Ed will also be discussing “coming out” as a nerd in “Crowd Pleaser.” “Judd Apatow movies and the popularity of Simon Pegg have made being a nerd far cooler,” reflects the comic, who will be supported on this tour by fellow Irish funny man Karl Spain.
“So now I’m enjoying letting my inner nerd come out to play a bit more. I’ll be happy to drop a few nerdy references into the show. Did you know, for example, that an anagram of Ed Byrne is ‘Be Nerdy’? That in itself doesn’t prove that I’m a nerd, but the fact that I worked it out does!”
In “Crowd Pleaser”, Ed will also be performing a typically hilarious routine about owning a cat. “We treat pets better than we do humans,” smiles the comic, who made a memorable appearance of BBC1’s Celebrity Mastermind. “We found this cat by the bins and fed it, and it ended up living with us.
“You’d never do that with a human being. If you saw a tramp, you wouldn’t say to him, ‘Come and live in our house. In exchange for food and lodging, just show us your arse occasionally! I’ve become a cat man without being bitten by a radioactive cat. There – that’s a real nerd’s joke for you!”
During the course of “Crowd Pleaser,” Ed will also be addressing such subjects as children wearing age-inappropriate clothing and how disappointing it can be to meet your heroes. In addition, he tackles the thorny topic of religion. But, in a characteristically imaginative move, he reveals, “I’m not going after the religious – I’m going after agnostics. They’re like people who smoke occasionally – make your minds up! It’s very easy to take the mick out of religion; attacking agnostics seems like more of a challenge!”
Finally, does Ed concur with Mr Saturday Night’s description of the stand-up as “The king of the night”? Absolutely. “There are moments where I feel the only time I’m completely at ease is on stage telling jokes,” affirms the comedian, who stormed it on BBC1’s Live at the Apollo. “It’s the only time when I feel I know what I’m doing and am in control of everything. Think of the way I put down hecklers on stage – I’d never talk to anyone like that in real life!
“I imagine it’s the same if you’re a champion skier bombing down the mountain at 100 miles an hour – everything else seems irrelevant. The comedian Adam Bloom calls it, ‘Life Fright’. That means you’re happy on stage, but everything else feels intimidating. That’s absolutely right. Live comedy feeds your soul.
“I just love doing stand-up.”
And we just love watching him do it!
For more information on the “Crowd Pleaser” tour, visit www.edbyrne.com. To book tickets, visit www.ticketzone.co.uk
Nominate Crawley’s inspirational young people and make sure they’re recognised.
The Youth Awards 2011 is underway and Crawley Borough Council is accepting nomination forms.
Last years’ event was a sell-out again, rewarding more than 370 young people from across the town for their achievements.
Ellis Barton, 13, won last year’s Carer Recognition award for his dedication to his younger brother Toby who is severely autistic.
Ellis gives up his time, cuts short trips out and even accompanies his brother to swimming lessons, always putting Toby first; the Youth Awards was a fantastic way of recognising Ellis’ selfless acts.
And, St Margaret’s School in Ifield bagged the Environment award for their eco school status, recognising the efforts of many which also contribute to the community.
Now in its seventh year, the awards aim to celebrate and recognise young people who have made a real difference to Crawley and its community.
Organised by Crawley Borough Council, in partnership with West Sussex County Council Youth Service, Crawley School Sports Partnership, West Sussex Council for Voluntary Youth Services, Crawley Young Persons Council and Crawley Wellbeing, the young people will be awarded for their achievements in November.
Anyone can nominate a young person and the only criteria for nominees are that they are under 25 years old and they live in Crawley, or the reason for their nomination occurred within the town.
Those nominating young people under 16 must also get permission from the nominee’s parents or guardians first.
There are 12 awards in four categories, these are:
Community Awards:
Let’s FACE It! – Environment Award
Crawley Lions Club – Carer Recognition Award
Crawley Young Persons Council – Volunteer Award
Sports Awards:
EEZEHAUL – Young Sports Person of the Year Award
Freedom Leisure – Sports Team Award
Crawley School Sports Partnership – Sports Volunteer Award
Arts Awards:
Safer Crawley Partnership – Music Award
Topsy Turvy – Dance and Drama Award
Crawley Metal Supplies – Visual Arts Award
Personal Achievement Awards:
Apollo Group – Inspiration Award
Sussex Police – Courage Award
West Sussex County Council – Educational Achievement Award
If you would like to see an inspirational young person recognised then log onto www.crawley.gov.uk/yaa or pick up a nomination form from schools, youth centres, the Town Hall, K2 Crawley, The Hawth, Crawley Library, Topsy Turvy (town centre hairdresser) and Connexions. The deadline for nominations is 14th September, 2011.
Make your ideas a part of Crawley
Regenerating the town centre’s Station Way is vital to the success of the area and Crawley Council is asking people to help design it.
Station Way is a key town centre gateway, linking it with rail, bus and taxi transport and is important to wider town centre regeneration initiatives including Town Centre North.
The council wants the area to be more attractive, inviting and functional, reflecting the aspirations for the rest of the town and helping to create a successful town centre economy.
Local people can make themselves part of the vision by getting involved in a series of workshops and consultation at the beginning of August.
A specially appointed design team will be working in the County Mall on August 2-5 where an ever-changing display of design ideas for the area will be exhibited and the public are encouraged to join in and share their thoughts.
A feedback session and design workshop organised by Crawley Borough Council will also take place on August 3rd at 6.30pm at the Town Hall.
Councillor Claire Denman, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development said: There’s absolutely no doubt the area can be improved to increase the attractiveness to visitors and the functionality for local people, as well as start to portray a positive image for the town as a whole.
To meet our objectives we need to really understand how it will look, how it will work and how were going to meet the challenges. We want it to be innovative and aspirational but it also needs to be realistic and deliverable.
It’s certainly a challenge getting the design right but well also need to work in close partnership with a diverse range of land owners who may well have different ideas. It’s very exciting.
If you want to help design Crawley email Sarah Brown atsarah.brown@architecturecentre.org
Economic plan for town is launched
A new economic business plan for Crawley was agreed by Crawley Borough Council last night (Wednesday July 20).
The plan, titled Crawley’s Economic Plan (2011-16) In support of prosperity, sets out the council’s vision, role and purpose. It’s designed to be a short-term plan with a range of priority areas and activities which the council has a role in delivering.
The plans priorities are:
¢ Revitalise the town centre
¢ Enhance Manor Royal Business District
¢ Support the development of a sustainable Gatwick
¢ Encourage new business and local supply chain opportunities
¢ Contribute to the development of skilled and enterprising people and businesses
¢ Support housing supply and sustainable transport improvements
¢ Develop an economy noted for its environmental excellence.
The council is committed to supporting the economy and the plan is focussed on the next few critical years. To demonstrate that commitment the council is committed to reporting progress in public and inviting interested parties and the community to comment and contribute to the ongoing development and delivery of the plan.
The plan is also practical and focuses on areas where the council can make an impact.
Councillor Claire Denman, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development, said: Delivering the plan against a challenging economic backdrop will not be easy. The plan tries to balance ambition with realism.
Its an action-focussed plan and already the council is making progress in key areas including Manor Royal, the town centre and in housing and delivering important infrastructure.
The Local Economic Action Group has been a key partner in the development of the plan, letting the council know what’s important to the Crawley business community.
John Stapleton, Chair of the LEAG, said: delighted that the Crawley Economic Plan has been agreed. The LEAG and Crawley Borough Council are committed to working jointly to support the delivery of the plan over the next five years.
We will play an active role as a critical friend to the council and provide oversight to support the delivery of the plan.
For more information about the LEAG visit www.crawley.gov.uk/leag
ACADEMIES – COUNTY COUNCIL’S ROLE IN HELPING SCHOOLS
West Sussex County Council has updated its policy on education and schools to show how it plans to support schools that want to apply to the Government for Academy status.
However, it also makes it quite clear that it is ultimately for governing bodies working with school leadership teams to take the decision on whether or not to move to academy status.
Peter Griffiths, the County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Schools, said: “Our role as a local authority will be to do all we can to assist schools to make informed decisions about academy status in the best interests of their pupils now and for generations to come.
“We also want to ensure that parents and carers are consulted and informed as part of the conversion process.”
Peter has made it clear there will still be a major role for the County Council as the academies develop in West Sussex, in addition to its statutory obligations.
He said: “The close collaboration and co-operation between schools and local authority that has been so successful over many years, will be maintained.
“The County Council will play a key role in facilitating development of the culture and conditions for a successful transfer to academy status, including a package of advice and support.
“In the longer term we will be maintaining our role to ensure the best possible learning outcomes for children, and working to develop new opportunities and markets for the wide range of specialist and non-teaching support services that academies will need.
“Although we would like to see our maintained schools apply for academy status, we have stressed this is a decision for schools to take, and I want to make it clear the relationship with those that decide not to convert will remain completely unchanged.”
The policy statement also says the County Council will:
• Concentrate resources on the transformation of under-performing schools through facilitating sponsored Academies and by supporting high performing schools to work with lower performing schools as part of their academy conversion process.
• Be proactive in supporting schools to identify sponsors or partners – recognising that it is the Department for Education, which must agree to the sponsor.
• Ensure that converting schools can choose to continue to access relevant support services through West Sussex County Council.
• Use its statutory powers to work with sponsors, governing bodies and the Department for Education to ensure that appropriate interventions are carried out in under-performing academiesThe policy statement also says the County Council will ‘engage constructively’ with people or groups wanting to set up Free Schools.
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
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
Just the ticket – course to help more independent travel
Adults with learning difficulties in West Sussex will now be able to travel more independently thanks to a new training initiative.
West Sussex County Council’s Adults’ Services has commissioned a new independent travel training service for two of its day services, Coastal Enterprises, Worthing, and Burnside, Burgess Hill.
The aim is to help people with learning difficulties gain confidence in travelling on public transport.
The charity Grace Eyre, which supports people with learning difficulties across Sussex, is running the project.
It teaches skills needed for people to travel around their community safely using public transport, either with the support of a volunteer travel buddy or travel on their own.
County Council Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, Peter Catchpole, said: “The travel training scheme is a great way for people with learning difficulties to gain a little bit more independence.
“Grace Eyre have been successful with the scheme over the last four years in the Brighton and Hove area, working closely with local bus companies and Southern Rail.
“Learners are assessed individually throughout the course and can progress onto another course, which teaches the skills to support others to travel.”
In the coming months, the project will be recruiting more volunteer travel buddies. To find out more, contact Sarah Howse on 07841067281.
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
The Hawth’s new season is shaping up nicely – here’s what you can look forward to is the autumn months. It has everything you expect from us and maybe even a little more. There’s comedy, dance, film, family shows and theatre but also aerial performances and even mind reading.
While the last of the summer weather keeps the evening’s warm audiences can still enjoy alfresco theatre. Families will love Roald Dahl favourite Fantastic Mr Fox (Aug 3, Goffs Park), Pirates of Penzance (Aug 11, Amphitheatre) and Wind In The Willows (Aug 20 & 21, Amphitheatre) in August. It’s also a season of classics as Theatre San Frontieres return to Crawley with their production of Lorca’s Love in the Garden (Oct 13) performed in Spanish, Shakespeare’s Othello (Oct 20) is brought to life with a Caribbean setting and a twist in the casting and Rebecca Vaughn is back after the success of Austin’s Women, with I Elizabeth (Oct 19), a powerful exploration of the virgin queen’s struggle with womanhood and sovereignty. Those looking for something a little different can look forward to Mindwalking (Oct 16), aerial theatre from the award-winning BandBazi that takes on the emotionally charged subject of dementia.
As always music plays a key part in the season with Kate Rusby’s (Sept 
fourth visit to The Hawth in September. One of the UK’s best loved rock ‘n’ roll legends Joe Brown (Oct 2) takes to the stage with his timeless classics and BBC Big Band are back by popular demand this time with Ken Peplowski (Oct 22) offering a tribute to Benny Goodman. If you want something more serene then the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (Oct 15) kick off the new Classical Concert Series by transporting everyone to Scandinavia with music of Sibelius and Grieg. Blues fans will be delighted to hear Crawley Blues Festival (Oct 29) is back for the sixth year in a row. The day brings together the likes of Mike Piggott, Martin Wheatley and Mike Dowling while the evening sees the return of Southern Nights, Nigel Bagge and Eddie Armer plus many more.
Kate Rusby
If you enjoy dance performances then get ready for a great night with Candoco (Oct 7) as the dance company of able bodied and disabled dancers celebrate their 20th anniversary. For a taste of the Emerald Isle why not join Rhythm of the Dance (Oct 3) with their special guests the three Irish Tenors and experience some of the world’s finest Irish dancing.
Candoco Dance
There’s also a selection of laugh out loud comedy in October; mind reader Chris Cox (Oct 26) will amaze and astound as he does the impossible and controls coincidence. You may have seen Hal Cruttenden (Oct 27) on television with the like of Jason Manford, Michael McIntyre and Rob Brydon – now’s your chance to see him live as he shares his witty observation, minute grievances and misplaced anger. Rounding off a week of comedy is Paul Foot (Oct 28), one of the UK’s most creative and original comedians.
October is Black History Month which offers up a selection of events this year from Conversations with the Blues (Oct 5) with Paul Oliver and Michael Roach to children’s show Droplets (Oct 16 & 17) which takes little ones on a journey from the west to Africa. There is also the main event, Black History Celebration (Oct 8), which this year has an African and Caribbean theme to celebrate Crawley’s links to the Barbados Olympics team. With performances by local artists and headline act Steady Bredren performing classic reggae it’s sure to be a great night for all the family.
As always there is plenty for families to look forward to. As well as all the outdoor theatre there is also a great selection of the popular weekend morning studio shows. A Bird In Your Ear (Sept 24)will enthral children of 3 plus as all the stories in it are from the imaginations of little ones and The Way Back Home (Oct 2) brings award-winning author Oliver Jeffers’ intergalactic adventure to life.
For more information on all these shows and more pick up a What’s On brochure at the Hawth or call the box office : 01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk to sign up to the mailing list.
Gatwick Diamond Meet the Buyers 2011
A speed dating event for businesses is coming to Crawley.
Gatwick Diamond Meet the Buyers takes place on Thursday 30th June at the Arora Hotel in Crawley. It’s an opportunity for local SMEs to meet a range of buyers who are looking for new and innovative suppliers for upcoming tenders.
The event aims to promote local sourcing and improve economic growth in the Gatwick Diamond region.
Meet the Buyers is based on speed dating for buyers and suppliers. Before the event suppliers have the opportunity to review the buyers’ catalogue, in which the buyers highlight their needs. >From this, suppliers can identify the buyers that they would like meet with for a 10-minute pre-arranged appointment.
The event is sponsored by Gatwick Airport, the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, Crawley Borough Council and Mid Sussex District Council and supported by Horsham, Reigate and Banstead and Mole Valley district councils.
To encourage local SMEs to join this year’s event, the sponsors are subsidising the entrance fee for businesses operating in the Gatwick Diamond area.
Workshops leading up to the Meet the Buyers event will help SMEs prepare for the networking day and beyond through the tendering process. Led by consultants with years of industry experience, these half-day workshops are the most efficient way to get SMEs up to speed for Meet the Buyers and the ensuing tendering process.
Last year’s programme involved 364 companies in total, 110 of which attended the Meet the Buyers day. The 2011 Meet the Buyers event looks set to be even bigger.
In 2010 the value of business generated through the Gatwick Diamond Meet the Buyers programme was just under £3m – an excellent result, which shows a year on year increase.
For more details on the workshops or Meet the Buyers, visit
www.business-business.co.uk/gatwickdiamondmeetthebuyers or email Philippa@btob.co.uk
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