Sussex Magazines

East Sussex County Council has added its voice to plaudits for an international art gallery which has landed a major architectural award.

The Jerwood Gallery, in Hastings, was awarded a 2013 RIBA National Award by the Royal Institute of British Architects in recognition of architectural excellence.

The gallery, which opened its doors in March last year, is home to the Jerwood Collection of 20th and 21st century art, alongside a changing curated exhibition programme.

Situated in a stunning location overlooking Hastings' historic fishing beach, known as The Stade, the striking modern building is clad in more than 8,000 hand-glazed black ceramic tiles which reflect the changing seaside light.

Cllr Chris Dowling, East Sussex County Council lead member for community services, said: “The Jerwood Gallery is a stunning example of contemporary design and an internationally recognised cultural attraction in the heart of East Sussex.

“The building has brought new life to Hastings and its position overlooking The Stade means it also showcases the beach-based fishing fleet, which is truly unique in this country.

“A great deal of credit is due to the Jerwood Foundation, Hastings Borough Council and everyone else who brought the project to fruition, and the gallery fully deserves this prestigious award.

“Along with other landmark buildings such as the De La Warr Pavilion, in Bexhill, the Jerwood is a testament to the fact this part of the country is alive with culture, and this accolade couldn't have been better timed as Hastings and 1066 Country awaits the result of its bid to become UK City of Culture 2017.”

Voices will ring out in harmony this summer as a community choir celebrates a landmark anniversary.

East Sussex Community Choir has helped hundreds of people indulge their love of singing and performed at venues around the UK and Europe since it was formed in the summer of 1988.

To mark its silver jubilee, the choir, part of East Sussex County Council's music service, will perform Haydn's Creation, featuring a full orchestra and professional soloists, and host a celebratory lunch.

Conductor Nick Houghton, who is head of music at the East Sussex Academy of Music, in Lewes, said: “Ours is a very welcoming choir and includes people from all walks of life and levels of experience.

“As well as being stimulating musically, singing as part of a choir is a nice social activity, and is also good for you as it gets the endorphins flowing and makes you feel good.

“It's a great moment for the choir to have been running for so long and to be in such healthy shape. Our numbers have gone up in recent years and we're looking good for the next 25 years.”

Mary Benjamin, from Lewes, is one of the choir's longest serving members, having joined the fledgling group in its early days under charismatic founder conductor Roger Durston, then head of the county music service.

She said: “One of the good things about the choir is that you don't have to go through an audition – you can just come along and sing.

“You don't have to be a top singer to take part – we have experienced and inexperienced members alike, including people of all ages and abilities, and we all help each other.

“The choir has been a fixed point in my life for the last 25 years and there's a real feelgood factor to it. There's nothing better than getting together and singing with a group of friends.”

At 30, mother-of-two Sarah Von Reibech is one of the youngest members of the choir, having joined two years ago.

She said: “I just love singing, and this choir is so friendly and welcoming. As a member, you work hard without feeling like you're working hard. It's very rewarding.

“I love singing and it's a very nice feeling at the end of weeks and months of hard work, to get that adrenaline rush when you perform, and to know you've given someone a good evening.”

The choir, which rehearses on Monday evenings at Sussex Downs College, in Lewes, boasts around 100 members drawn from across East Sussex and beyond.

The group stages three concerts a year, including its well-attended annual ‘Christmas Cracker', and acts as ambassadors for the county music service on its overseas tours, which in recent years have included trips to the northern French towns of Chartres, Honfleur and Dieppe.

The choir will perform Haydn's Creation at Lewes Town Hall on Saturday 29 June 2013 at 7.30pm, featuring soprano Lucinda Houghton, tenor Paul Austin Kelly and bass Stephen Charlesworth.

Tickets, priced £12 and £6 for students and under 16s, are available from East Sussex Music Service on 01273 336770 or Lewes Tourist Information Centre on 01273 483448

Meanwhile, on Sunday 7 July 2013 a summer celebration lunch attended by past and present members of the choir will be held at Southover Grange, in Lewes, while from June 14 to 21 a window display about the choir will be held at Lewes Tourist Information Centre, in High Street.

Anyone who is interested in joining the choir can obtain more information by calling 01273 336770 or online at www.eastsussexcommunitychoir.org.uk

Further information

Motorists are being warned about a road closure to allow a high voltage power cable to be diverted from the route of the Bexhill to Hastings Link Road.

Road closure in Crowhurst for Link Road work

Motorists are being warned about a road closure to allow a high voltage power cable to be diverted from the route of the Bexhill to Hastings Link Road.

The first phase of the work in Crowhurst Road, Crowhurst, will begin on Monday 17 June 2013 with work carried out by engineers from UK Power Networks, who will be diverting overhead power cables along the road.

Phase one is expected to take between five and 10 weeks, while the second phase, which will take around one week, will see East Sussex County Council carrying out carriageway patching to repair the road.

During the first phase, Crowhurst Road will be closed to through traffic between its junctions with Queensway and Swainham Lane, while during the second phase it will be closed between Queensway and Chapel Hill.

The work will, subject to final approval, be carried out between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week, but the road will remain closed throughout for safety reasons and a diversion route will be signposted via Queensway, The Ridge West, Hastings Road, Telham Lane and Foreward Lane in both directiions.

Local businesses will be open as usual and access will be provided for the Crowhurst Village Fayre on Saturday, August 10.

An East Sussex County Council spokesman said: “We'd like to apologise to local residents and motorists for the inconvenience and disruption. Unfortunately these high voltage power cables have to be diverted along the road, and we have no option but to close the road.

“The county council is trying to minimise the length of time this work will take and minimise the inconvenience to local people.

“UK Power Networks are seeking approval to be allowed to work at weekends in order to reduce the length of time the road is closed, but we would like to emphasise that local businesses will be open as normal while the work is carried out.”

Princesses, knights and fairies will be starring in stories and rhymes at East Sussex libraries and children's centres to celebrate National Bookstart Week.

Fairy tales are the theme for this year's events, with special rhyme times and story times being held throughout the county during the weeks beginning Monday 17 and 24 June 2013.

Ugly Duckling booklets and a ‘create your own fairy tale' activity sheet, along with other goodies, will be handed out to children attending an event.

Children and their families across East Sussex will also be invited to vote for their favourite fairy tale in libraries and children's centres.

Cllr Chris Dowling, East Sussex County Council lead member for community services, said: “It is important to encourage young children to enjoy books and fairy tales provide excitement and magic.

“I hope as many families as possible come along to one of our free special events.”

Further information

Special events will take place at libraries during the following times:

• Battle Library – Tuesday 25 June 2013 – 10.30-11am (Rhyme Time)

• Bexhill Library – Wednesday 19 June 2013 – 11-11.30am (Rhyme Time) and Monday 24 June 2013 – 10.45-11.30am (Three Billy Goats Gruff event) **

• Crowborough Library – Tuesday 25 June 2013 – 2.30-3pm (Fairy Tale event)

• Eastbourne Library – Wednesday 26 June 2013 – 10.30-11am and Friday 28 June 2013 – 10.45-11.15am (Rhyme Time)

• Hailsham Library – Wednesday 26 June 2013 – 9.45-10.15am (Rhyme Time)

• Hastings Children's Library – Tuesday 25 June 2013 – 1.45-2.15pm (Rhyme Time) and Friday 28 June 2013 – 10.45-11.30am (Three Billy Goats Gruff event) **

• Heathfield Library – Monday 24 June 2013 – 10.30-11am (Rhyme Time)

• Lewes Library – Tuesday 2 July 2013 – 10.30-11am (Rhyme Time)

• Newhaven Library – Monday 17 June 2013 – 2- 2.30pm (Rhyme Time)

• Peacehaven Library – Wednesday 3 July 2013 – 10.30-11am (Rhyme Time)

• Polegate Library – Friday 28 June 2013 – 2.30-3pm (Rhyme Time)

• Rye Library – Monday 24 June 2013 – 11-11.30am (Rhyme Time)

• Uckfield Library – Tuesday 25 June 2013 – 2.15-2.45pm (Fairy Tale event)

• Wadhurst Library – Monday 1 July 2013 – 2.15-2.45pm (Rhyme Time)

• Willingdon Library – Thursday 27 June 2013 – 10.30-11am (Rhyme Time)

** Booking is essential for the Three Billy Goats Gruff events at Bexhill Library and Hastings Children's Library

Bookstart is run by Booktrust, an independent national charity that encourages people of all ages and cultures to engage with books – for further information about Bookstart please contact bookstart@eastsussex.gov.uk

More information about Bookstart is available online at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/bookstart

Residents in East Sussex are less likely to die prematurely from disease than those living in other parts of the country, new figures have revealed.

Statistics published on Public Health England's Longer Lives website, set up to show how mortality rates vary between local authorities, put East Sussex among the top areas for low rates of premature death.

The figures, for 2009 to 2011, relate to the number of residents who have died under the age of 75 from cancer, heart disease and stroke, lung disease and liver disease.

For overall premature death rates, East Sussex was ranked 48th out of 150 local authorities and considered among the ‘best' for low mortality rates.

Dr Diana Grice, East Sussex County Council's director of Public Health, said: “Although people living in East Sussex have low rates of premature mortality there is still a 13 year variation in life expectancy between the wards with the highest and lowest life expectancy in the county.

“These statistics are helpful in identifying which areas of public health need to be addressed to drive down the numbers of premature deaths. There is still more that can be done to reduce preventable deaths of our residents in some parts of East Sussex.

“The county is considered among the best for low premature death rates, but we are committed to improving the health of all our residents and will continue to encourage people to improve their wellbeing through support to make changes to their lifestyles such as stopping smoking, good diet and exercise.”

For premature deaths from cancer, East Sussex recorded 102 deaths per 100,000 residents between 2009 and 2011. This puts the county 55th out of 150.

Early deaths from heart disease and stroke in East Sussex were also low compared to other authorities, with 51 deaths per 100,000 residents over the same period.

Statistics for premature deaths due to lung disease and liver disease are among the ‘best' in the country, with 17 and 12 per 100,000 residents respectively.

Cllr Keith Glazier, Leader of East Sussex County Council, added: “The council works hard to promote healthy living among our residents and these figures show that, on the whole, people in East Sussex live healthy lives.

“However, any number of premature deaths is too many and we will use the data published by Public Health England to ensure the work we do is targeting those most at risk from disease.”

Young people are being invited to get involved and have their voices heard by joining the Eastbourne Youth Forum.

In a bid to encourage more teenagers to join the group an open evening will be held on Monday 24 June, 2013.

The forum aims to work with organisations to ensure the views of young people living in Eastbourne, aged 12 to 19, are represented in the decision making process, that any gaps in services for young people are addressed and the achievements of young people are celebrated.

Members of the Eastbourne Youth Forum also make decisions about which local groups and schemes share funding from the Eastbourne YouthBank.

Cllr Sylvia Tidy, Lead Member for Children and Families, said: “Young people know what they like or don't like, joining Eastbourne Youth Forum is an excellent way to get your views across to those who make decisions on your behalf.

“Whether you join up and attend every meeting or sign up to the Facebook page, Eastbourne Youth Forum will help you get involved in what's happening in your town.”

Forum meetings are held every two weeks and members are invited to attend these. Those who want to be involved but are not confident about attending these meetings can join the Facebook page and join in discussions and get notifications of events and consultations.

Those interested in joining can drop in to an open evening on Monday 24 June, 2013, at Charlie's (YMCA) at 56 Seaside, Eastbourne between 6 and 7.30pm when members of the youth forum will be on hand to discuss their experiences. If you can't make the open evening contact Jacy Kilvert on 01323 411718 or email jacy.kilvert@eastsussex.gov.uk to arrange another time!

To find out more about what is happening on the Eastbourne Youth Forum join the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/EastbourneYouthForum

A former East Sussex Music Service pupil is celebrating success after winning a prestigious prize.

Talented tuba player George Ellis impressed a panel of judges to win the Guildhall Brass Prize sponsored by the Armourers and Brasiers.

The 20-year-old, a former Cavendish School student and sixth former at Lewes Performing Arts Centre, is currently in his third year at Guildhall.

He fought off tough competition from a third year trumpet student and two fourth year French horn students to win the final, held at the Music Hall at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Following his win, George said: “I am delighted. It was such a privilege to perform to a large and supportive audience. I am particularly appreciative of my fantastic teacher Patrick Harrild who has aided my professional and artistic development at GSMD.

“It feels a long time ago now, but I remain very grateful to the music service in East Sussex for their great work which has allowed me and many others to gain places at such prestigious institutions.”

George plans to use the £1,000 prize money to help fund the purchase of a second, larger tuba which he said is essential for his planned career as a professional tuba player.

Richard Sigsworth, Acting Head of the East Sussex Music Service, said: “It is always great to hear the success stories of former pupils and I congratulate George on winning this prestigious prize.

“The East Sussex Music Service plays an important role in nurturing the talents of musicians like George and ensuring their skill is developed to the full. We hope George's success inspires other young people to consider learning to play an instrument.”

To find out more about the East Sussex Music Service click here.

Further information

Notes to editors

George's prize-winning programme consisted of Three Miniatures- Anthony Plog, Sonata for Unaccompanied Tuba movt. 1- John Kenny Barcarolle et Chanson and Bachique- Jules Semler-Collery.

Other winners of Guildhall Brass Prize have included the celebrated trumpet player Alison Balsom and Elspeth Dutch Principal Horn of City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

The East Sussex Music Service provides an instrumental teaching scheme in schools, music centre activities, a specialist A level music course, a summer school, consultancy and advisory services to parents and students, orchestral and chamber ensemble concerts, award winning regional and county orchestras, bands and choirs, and international tours and festivals.

A lottery cash boost will help improve the health and wellbeing of some of the county's most vulnerable residents.

East Sussex County Council will share a £1.8 million pot from the Big Lottery Fund with four other authorities, after submitting a joint bid the National Lottery ‘Big well-being' health improvement funding.

The County Council will receive £220,000 over two years to tackle poor health among vulnerable and marginalized people in Hastings and Eastbourne.

The money will help those who have low levels of physical activity, poor mental health and poor diets to be supported by their communities to make changes to their lifestyles and make best use of the facilities and support available in their communities

Helping people to get involved will be a focus of the project, with local people who want to do more in their communities, but don't know how, to be supported to develop activities in their neighbourhoods.

Cllr Keith Glazier, leader of East Sussex County Council, said: “We are delighted to have secured funding from the Big Lottery Fund.

“As well as tackling health issues among our most vulnerable residents, the money will encourage communities to work together and support one another to lead healthy lifestyles.”

The aim of the project is to identify and highlight community centres, pubs, church halls and sports club that are available, but not widely used by marginalized groups, encourage residents who would not usually see themselves as volunteers to help their neighbours and help vulnerable people who are socially isolated or have care needs access support.

Dr Diana Grice,Director of Public Health for East Sussex County Council said: “This funding will enable us to recognise and support the skills, qualities and resources in our local communities and make the best use of these to help people improve their own and their communities' health.”

Further information

Notes to editors

Portsmouth City Council, as an existing Big Wellbeing portfolio lead organisation, were asked to co-ordinate a bid for, focussing on vulnerable populations across the South East. East Sussex public health department was one of five public health departments invited to participate by Portsmouth. The other local authorities were Brighton & Hove, Medway, Portsmouth, Southampton, Slough.

Public Health funding already included in the East Sussex Commissioning Grants Prospectus 2013 was included in the bid as match funding in the first year.

The Big Lottery Fund, the largest distributor of National Lottery good cause funding, is responsible for giving out 40 per cent of the money raised for good causes by the National Lottery.

Walkers are being urged to take care when they come into contact with cows this summer following the death of a pensioner in Wiltshire.

The 66-year-old was walking his dog with his 70-year-old brother in May when he was trampled to death by a herd of cows.

Although there have been no fatalities in East Sussex, there have been incidents of cows attacking walkers, particularly those with dogs.

Following last month's attack, East Sussex County Council is reminding people that the normally docile animals can become aggressive towards walkers with dogs and charge, especially when calves are present.

Councillor Carl Maynard, Lead Member for Transport and Environment, said: “Thankfully serious incidents involving walkers and cattle are very rare. However, we would always recommend walkers take steps to keep themselves as safe as possible.

“We want people to enjoy the beautiful countryside East Sussex has to offer, but we would encourage people to consider taking a mobile phone when out walking so they can call for help if they need to.”

Walkers are advised to follow this simple advice to ensure they stay safe;

Do:

• Do be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you

• Do move quickly and quietly and if possible walk around the herd

• Do keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead

Don't

• Do not get between cows and their calves

• Do not hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle – let it go as the cattle will chase the dog

• Don't put yourself at risk. Find another way round the cattle and rejoin the footpath as soon as possible

• Don't panic or run. Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow, just walk on quietly.

John Archer, Environment and Land Use Adviser for the NFU in the south east, warned walkers to remember the countryside is a working environment and said it is not always possible to separate grazing animals from public rights of way.

He added: “Walkers should be mindful of their surroundings and especially vigilant on entering a field where the whole field cannot be seen. Follow the advice above and be sympathetic to animals that are rearing their young – please give them space.”

Malcolm McDonnell, East Sussex Footpath Secretary of the Ramblers, said: “Our beautiful East Sussex countryside is working farmland, which helps form its character and make it such a pleasure to walk in. However, with any working environment, there are certain risks, but the incidents of people being attacked by cattle are few and far between.

“We urge everyone out walking to be aware of the ‘dos and don'ts' of walking in fields with cows and their calves at this time of year, but not to let the very low risk of cattle attacks put them off enjoying the countryside when it is, arguably, at its loveliest.”

Residents in Hampden Park will be able to find out how changes to street lighting will affect them at an event on Saturday 8 June, 2013.

Street lights in residential roads in Eastbourne are being replaced with modern LED alternatives as part of a money-saving project.

The work in the town is being carried out on a ward by ward basis and residents will be given the opportunity to raise concerns and asks questions before the changes are made.

Main roads in Hampden Park will continue to be fully lit by the new lights, but street lights in residential areas will be dimmed during the night.

The planned changes have been drawn up by East Sussex County Council in consultation with Eastbourne Borough Council, Sussex Police and other stakeholders.

Changes to street lights across the county are being made in a bid to save £885,000 by 2016.

Members of East Sussex County Council's street lighting team will be on hand to answer questions and listen to people's concerns at the engagement event which runs from 9am to noon on Saturday 8 June, 2013, at Hampden Park Community Centre, Brodrick Road, Hampden Park.

Comments or concerns about the proposed changes in Hampden Park can also be made online by clicking here or at local libraries.