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Art

graffiti art makes waves

ActivitieS

Summer fun

community

Armed forces support

Welcome to your August/September issue of Crawley Live.In this issue we take a look at summer fun on pages 12 and 13 and page 24, with outdoor events, festivals and more to keep adults and children entertained over the holidays.

Turn to page six for the latest on the Worth Park restoration, including some interesting archaeological discoveries.

If the weather has got you enjoying the great outdoors why not rent an allotment? Some sites now have plots available – more details are on page 11.

And Armed Forces Day in Crawley was a great success. Page 15 has a look back at this momentous occasion.

If you, or someone you know, would like Crawley Live in a different format such as large print, Braille or tape, or in a different language, please contact Allan Hambly on 01293 438781 or email allan.hambly@crawley.gov.uk

Printed on 100% recycled paper. Please recycle your copy of Crawley Live in your REDtop bin after use.

graffiti art

7

Armed Forces Day

15

get outside for summer

12

Welcome... ContentsNEWS

Aug/Sept 2013 | ISSUE 64

News from across the town

COMMUNITY

04

06 More history uncovered at Worth Park The latest on the restoration project07 Irish festival

Head to The Hawth for music, dance and more09 Community safety

Don’t make your home a target for burglars10 Manor Royal

Businesses vote to become a Business Improvement District11 Grow your own

Considerably lower your food miles and rent an allotment12 Get outside for summer All you need to know about alfresco fun15 Armed Forces Day

Looking back at a great event16 60-second interview

Councillor Howard Bloom explains his role as Cabinet member for Community Engagement18 Sunrise Nursery

Affordable childcare in the town centre19 Crawley Play Service

Free play, Holiday Play care and children’s parties20 Crawley Wellbeing

Wheels for all teams up with Special Olympics GB22 Starting a community group Simple steps from Crawley Community and Voluntary Service

17 Community Noticeboard Crawley Sea Cadets and Royal Marine Cadets24 Dear diary

Circus Festival, theatre, fetes and fairs

Design: Tileywoodman Creative 01737 221199 Printing: Belmont Press Ltd Published by: Crawley Borough Council, Town Hall, The Boulevard, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1UZ. Telephone: 01293 438000

www.facebook.com/crawleycouncil http://twitter.com/crawleybc

CONTACTS

WHAT’S ON

23 Council contacts Get in touch with the council

Crawley Town FC won the Football League’s Family Excellence Award in June.The accolade recognises clubs that offer a high standard of customer care across the match-day operation, with particular emphasis on how they treat families and young supporters.

The work the club has done to engage supporters was also recognised with the Most Improved Family Experience award; Reggie the Red went down well too with a nomination for Best Use of a Mascot.

The award was presented to chairman, Dave Pottinger, and Marketing Manager, Ryan Murrant, at a gathering of Football League clubs at Birmingham City FC.

excellent family fun with crawley town Fc

The town’s Age UK centre in Tilgate needs volunteers covering roles from drivers to activity centre assistants.Based in Shackleton Road, the centre needs drivers; escorts to accompany the driver; and activity centre volunteers to serve lunches, make drinks and encourage people to take part in the fun and games.

Among other things, the centre offers lunch clubs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, exercise classes, computer courses, chiropodist service, bingo, card games and arts and crafts.

Members must be over 55 and membership costs £15 per year per household. Activities and services carry a small cost in order to maintain the centres.

For more information about Age UK activities and services, contact Tracy Olckers on: 01293 544144, or at: tracy.olckers@ageukwestsussex.org.uk

volunteers needed at Age uK

A new service for landlords provides a cost-free package allowing them to let properties in a way that’s beneficial to them and the community.Access PRS, delivered by Southdown Housing Association and working in partnership with Crawley Borough Council, is a

free matching service for tenants and landlords, offering advice and support to both parties to ensure all tenancies are suitable, affordable and sustainable.

For more information call 07825 514739 or email prs@southdownhousing.org or go to www.southdownhousing.org/services/housing-support/access-prs/

property or room to let?

Drink or drive – but never both. The message from the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership this summer really is that simple.Just one alcoholic drink affects your ability to drive safely. Even with a blood alcohol level substantially under the legal limit, a driver is three times more likely to die in a vehicle crash.

Sussex Safer Roads Partnership (SSRP) is promoting its Drink Or Drive message. An education

campaign started in May and an intensive period of enforcement was carried out by Sussex Police in June.

The Partnership has also joined forces with the Mocktail Apprentice Project (originally developed by Horsham District Council), promoting a range of tasty non-alcoholic cocktails to keep the designated drivers both happy and hydrated during long summer evenings.

For more information and to understand the risks surrounding alcohol on the roads, visit www.DrinkOrDrive.co.uk

A simple choice this summer

The new Mayor of Crawley is Councillor Bob Burgess.Councillor Burgess was elected at the Annual Council meeting on Friday May 24. Councillor Vanessa Cumper was elected Deputy Mayor.

Bob Burgess was elected to represent the Three Bridges ward in 2007 and then again in 2011.

The Mayor’s charity will be Outreach 3Way and Bob hopes to raise funds to equip a sensory room at their facility in Ifield.

Play Day

Crawley 2029, our new Local Plan, is an important document setting out the next 15 years of the future of our town.It’s currently being developed and once adopted, will provide the basis for future planning decisions in Crawley.

Public consultation on where best to place future development and protective designations closed on 1 July with around 2,000 responses.

Crawley Borough Council will use these responses to develop the draft plan and the public will have the chance to comment again in November and December this year.

www.crawley.gov.uk/news

New Mayor for Crawley

04 05 neWS crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

more

athistory uncoveredWorth park

New pair of hands at Worth Park Gardens Crawley Borough Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Edwina Livesey as Project Participation Officer at Worth Park, Pound Hill.Edwina has many years of experience in heritage education and community involvement. She joins Crawley Borough Council from Sussex Archaeological Society, where she has been responsible for leading a Heritage Lottery Fund community project about the Battle of Lewes.

Her arrival comes at an exciting time at the park with major restoration of the original stonework and Victorian planting schemes well underway.The role of the Participation Officer is to create new volunteering opportunities which will help make Worth Park a vibrant and welcoming space for visitors to enjoy. Over the coming months, Edwina will be working with volunteers to create interpretation panels, trails, walks and new learning workshops.

In addition, she will be liaising with local schools and community groups, encouraging them to use the facilities in the park as well as volunteering for various projects and to take part in seasonal events. A new Victorian festival is planned for next year and family workshops for the holidays. The four-year project to restore the park is being funded by Crawley Borough Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund.For up-to-date information on Worth Park visit www.crawley.gov.uk/worthpark or for information on activities at the park please contact Edwina Livesey on 01293 438027 or at edwina.livesey@crawley.gov.uk

Help protect your history Volunteers are needed to help protect heritage

in Crawley’s newest conservation areas.

In April, Crawley Borough Council designated an extension to the

Brighton Road Conservation Area, Malthouse Road Conservation

Area and Southgate Neighbourhood Centre Conservation Area.

The council also extended the Ifield Village Conservation Area

to include parts of Langley Lane and Ifield Green.

Volunteers are now needed for the Southgate Conservation Area

Advisory Committee (SCAAC) – a new group – and the Ifield Village

Conservation Area Advisory Committee (IVCAAC).

Both committees will look after their respective areas, ensuring their

heritage is protected and enhanced for future generations to enjoy.

Another Conservation Area Action Committee, covering the

Hazelwick Road Conservation Area, will be established later this year.

If you live in one of these areas and want to get involved,

or you’re interested in joining SCAAC or IVCAAC,

call 01293 438644, email forward.plans@crawley.gov.uk

or visit www.crawley.gov.uk/conservationareas

Young people got creative and brought a splash of colour to the centre of Bewbush when they took part in a graffiti art project.Members of Bewbush Youth Centre worked with a professional artist on Saturday 29 June to transform temporary hoardings around the housing development in Dorsten Square.

The young artists took part in an interactive workshop to come up with ideas, practice their skills and learn new techniques before getting creative on more than 40 metres of white hoardings

Circles, bubbles, striking lines and splashes of bright colour add a summery feel to the area while work on a new housing development from housing association Affinity Sutton, who also provided funding for the project, takes place.

Crawley Borough Council’s Arts Development team and West Sussex County Council’s Youth Service coordinated the project, which aimed to encourage young people to use their creativity and do something positive in their neighbourhood.

For more information on facilities and activities for young people in Crawley, visit www.crawley.gov.uk/youngactive

The Crawley Irish Festival is in its 18th year and has joined forces with The Hawth.The festival, the only one of its kind in the South East and the longest running cultural event in Crawley, attracts crowds from across Sussex, London and further afield, building a reputation as a great family day out.

Showcasing some great musical talent from Britain and Ireland, open dance competitions, including the Festival Irish Dance competition, the Ceili Dance Marquee, children’s entertainment marquee, food and craft stalls and displays with GAA sports shown on the big screen; the festival is set to be a hit.

Enjoy a day out with the whole family at the festival on Sunday 25 August (August bank holiday weekend) at The Hawth Theatre.

The Crawley Irish Festival is organised by the Celtic & Irish Cultural Society. For more information visit www.celtic-irish.co.uk or call John Nolan on 01293 513189 or email john.nolan@celtic-irish.co.uk

visit the

makes waves in Bewbush

irish Festival this bank holiday

Archaeologists at Worth Park have discovered a lost Victorian

flowerbed under the turf at the north end of the Crawley park.

The bed – a brick, slate and concrete structure in a circular

Greek key style pattern – is believed to have been an early

piece of work by famous landscape architects Pulham and

Son. It was discovered by a workman who hit one of its

edges while laying a new irrigation pipe as part of the

HLF-funded programme.

The archaeologists, who are all members of the Horsham

District Archaeology Group, have now uncovered a full

segment of the bed. They were assisted by John Mills, the

County Archaeologist, and by Worthing Archaeological

Group, who used specialist equipment to look for features

underground.

They uncovered many artefacts which, it is hoped, will

provide an insight into some of the pottery and other

items which were used at Worth Park in the past. They also

discovered two tiny flint arrowheads believed to be about

10,000 years old. They are now seeking further advice

from the Sussex Gardens Trust about the site, which is an

extremely rare and significant example of its kind. The project

management team is now considering options for preserving

the site as a learning resource and for the public to enjoy. Graffiti art

06 07 HeritAge crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

POLICEPOLICEPOLICE POLICE

POLICEPOLICEPOLICE POLICE

As the weather improves and temperatures increase, it’s tempting to become complacent when it comes to home security. As a result, the risk of burglaries rises throughout the summer months.However, there are lots of things you can do to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of burglary.

Police Community Support Officer Bettina Long, who has patrolled the streets of Pound Hill for more than four years and is a familiar face in the neighbourhood, tells more.

PCSO Long said: “Before you leave your home make sure you have closed your doors and windows – it might be warm but burglars will take advantage of small openings.

“As it gets warmer make sure they are properly closed and locked, especially patio doors. Something I always tell people is not to create a ‘shop window effect’ where everything is on display. Keep valuables out of sight.”

• Use timer switches on lights in the evenings and when you go on holiday. Use the timer on your radio too

• Don’t leave keys near entry points where they can be ‘hooked’ through a window, letterbox or cat flap

• If you get on well with your neighbours ask them to push newspapers and leaflets through your letterbox if they’re sticking out – a burglar will notice if these are not removed in a day or two

• Cancel all your deliveries

• Make sure your garden gate has a padlock and put the lock far enough down the gate so it’s out of reach

• Do not leave tools or a ladder out. Make sure they’re locked away so they can’t be used by burglars

• Put wheelie bins away if possible so they can’t be used to climb on to get access to an upper window

• Join Neighbourhood Watch

• Mark your property with your house number and post code with a UV pen. You can buy these from Neighbourhood Watch. Mark anything that is valuable or has sentimental value. Take photos too and if it’s jewellery, place a ruler next to the item.

For more information visit www.crawley.gov.uk/communitysafety and www.sussex.police.uk

www.crawley.gov.uk/communitysafety

Don’t be another victim ... SHUT ITBurglaries rise in the summer months due to doors and windows being left open.

57830_260_Poster_aw.indd 1 13/05/2011 12:13

Don’t make your home a

for burglarsTarget

Common cases of opportunist summer

burglary involve offenders that:

• Enter an insecure front door while residents are

in the back garden

• Enter doors that are closed but unlocked at night while

residents are asleep

• Reach through windows to take valuable items.

Further advice includes:

say “yes” Manor Royal businesses

www.manorroyal.org

Businesses in Manor Royal have voted in favour of creating the biggest business improvement district (BID) of its kind in the whole of the UK.A BID is a way for businesses in a defined area to collaborate and jointly invest in improvements to make their trading environment more competitive and profitable. There are about 130 BIDs across the country. Some are in town centres and some, like Manor Royal, operate on trading estates and business parks.

The process, which is supported by Government legislation, allows businesses to work together to develop a business plan for their area and organise a vote among themselves to approve the plan. The majority of businesses have to vote in favour of the BID for it to be approved and for the money to be raised to deliver it.

The result of the postal vote that was administered by Crawley Borough Council returned a 70 per cent vote in favour of the Manor Royal BID.

With more than 700 unique business premises and 500 businesses, the Manor Royal Business Improvement District will be the largest “industrial” BID in the country and provides an opportunity for local firms to take a central role and be a leading influence in the area’s future success.

“These are exciting times for Manor Royal. The BID will create the platform for Manor Royal businesses to work together and change the trading environment for the better,” commented Trevor Williams of Thales UK and Manor Royal chair. “It’s now up to all of us to grasp this opportunity and make it work for us. There is so much potential.”

The Manor Royal BID will be in place for at least five years and will raise £2.5m, of which 25 per cent is expected to come from other sources like grants. This figure could be more depending on the success of the BID. Next steps involve setting up the Manor Royal company to deliver the BID with a Board of Directors drawn from Manor Royal firms.

More details are set to follow now the BID has been approved but early action is likely to focus on security measures (including CCTV), promoting trade between Manor Royal firms, looking to improve infrastructure like broadband provision and looking at ways to reduce costs for Manor Royal-based firms.

Visit the dedicated BID pages at www.manorroyal.org or email Steve Sawyer, Manor Royal Business District Manager, at steve@manorroyal.org

GrowAre you a budding gardener or keen cultivator? You could soon have the chance to grow your own plants and produce as six allotment sites have short waiting lists.Crawley has 20 allotment sites with varying numbers of plots, each site is popular and there is usually a long waiting list of interested gardeners.

Currently however there are several sites with short waiting lists:

Railey Road, Northgate – short waiting list

Five Acres, Northgate – short waiting list

Newark Road, Northgate – short waiting list

Friends Meeting House, Ifield – short waiting list

Patching Close, Ifield – short waiting list

Cherry Lane, Langley Green – short waiting list.

Allotment charges depend on the size of the plots, costing 37 pence per square metre with a discounted price of 18 pence per square metre for senior citizens – half plots are available if you don’t have time for a full-sized plot.

Sites are secured with a padlocked gate and each plot has a water supply included in the rent, undergo regular site inspections and there is also the option of installing your own shed.

To fill in an application form, or for more information and allotment tips, visit www.crawley.gov.uk/allotments Application forms are also available from the Town Hall.

ownyour

10 11 BuSineSS crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

summerget outside for

Goffs Park

Take a picnic and let the kids enjoy two great play parks.

Try your hand at pitch and putt and take the little ones

on the miniature trains on a Sunday or bank holiday.

Visit www.crawley.gov.uk/goffspark

• Worth Park – Milton Mount Avenue, Pound Hill• Southgate Park – Southgate Avenue, Southgate • Southgate Park skate park• Inclusive BMX track at Cherry Lane playing fields (find out more on p20)• Buchan Country Park. Lots of events this summer. Find out more online.• K2 Crawley – check online for more info.

There’s lots more summer fun around the town:

Smith & Western Restaurant

Round off your day with a special Wild West experience

and delicious meal. To book a table call 01293 560660

or visit www.smith-western.co.uk

How to get there

Tilgate Park can be found at the end of Titmus Drive

in Tilgate and can also be accessed from K2 Crawley

leisure centre.

The nearest bus stop is at Tilgate neighbourhood

parade and from there it’s about a ten minute walk

up Titmus Drive. A car park is available with a small

charge of £3 for the whole day.

Go Ape!New to the park, Go Ape is the UK’s number

one forest adventure experience.

Swing around a tree top assault course, have fun with friends

and family and get in touch with your inner Tarzan.

Visit www.goape.co.uk to see what it’s all about.

Go Ape Tree Top Adventure

Gorillas (18 years plus) £30, Baboons (10 to 17 years) £20

About Go Ape Tree Top Junior

Pioneer (18 years plus) £15, Trailblazer (6 years to 17 years) £15,

Pathfinder (Under 6 years) £15

chance to win a family ticket!

Go Ape is best enjoyed with friends and family so you

can bring your whole tribe, it is accessible for adventurers

aged 10 and over.

For a chance to win a family ticket (two gorillas

and two baboons) answer the following question:

Where is Go Ape Tilgate Park located?

• Crawley

• Horsham

• Horley

Send your answer, along with your name, address and daytime

telephone number to Crawley Live, Room 210, Town Hall, The

Boulevard, Crawley RH10 1UZ before the closing date of 12 August.

Tilgate ParkA green jewel in the town’s crown, Tilgate Park is the

place to go to explore the great outdoors, discover

new activities or to just blow off some steam!

Visit the animals, swing in the trees, row a boat, stroll along

miles of footpaths in beautiful surroundings, grab an ice

cream and buy local crafts. Entry to the park is free although

there are charges for the Nature Centre and some activities.

Play An exciting play area with a variety of equipment – just the

place for kids to practice climbing, crawling and balancing skills.

Walled Garden and Café

There’s something for everyone in the Walled Garden including

a maze, themed gardens and roaming peacocks. The newly

refurbished café serves fresh food and ice creams and has

recently retained its five stars for cleanliness and food hygiene.

GolfTilgate Forest Golf Centre, run by Glendale Golf, has everything

you need for an enjoyable round set in beautiful surroundings.

Visit www.crawley.gov.uk/golf or www.glendale-golf.com

to find out more.

Dynamic Adventures Hire a boat or kayak and

take it out on the lake, even

have a go at building your

own! Do a spot of fishing

or zoom round the park

on a mountain bike.

Visit www.dynamicadventures.co.uk/tilgate-park

to find out more.

Nature Centre

With more than 500 animal residents from alpacas to zebra

finches, Tilgate Nature Centre is the perfect place to visit your

favourite creature or discover a whole new species!

Meet new arrivals like the meerkat pups and those who fancy

a challenge can tackle a quiz or wildlife treasure hunt; don’t

forget to check out the brand new gift shop.

Entry charges to the Nature Centre change on 1 August.

Adults remain £2 but all children aged 2-16 will now pay £1.

Under twos are still free.

Check out the blog at www.tilgatenaturecentre.co.uk

to find out more.

12 13 Summer Fun crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

Securing water supplies andsafely recycling wastewater– whatever the weatherWe are holding a public consultation on ourplan to supply your drinking water for the next25 years and our five-year business plan

Find out more and have your say atwww.swhaveyoursay.co.uk

3525_WRMP_BusPlan_CL_advert.qxd:3525_WRMP_BusinessPlan_advert.qxd 21/6/13 17:12 Page 1

Bringing communities together at

Crawley showed its support for Armed Forces Day by hosting a special event on Saturday 29 June.The event, at the Civic Hall on The Boulevard, saw displays and demonstrations from armed forces cadets, serving troops and veterans plus music and refreshments (courtesy of Sainsbury’s), with all money raised donated to service charities.

Crawley’s Community Covenant was also signed on the day and aims to encourage the local community to support the armed forces and their families and promote understanding and awareness of issues affecting it.

Signed by Councillor Bob Lanzer, Leader of Crawley Borough Council; Lee Harris, Chief Executive of Crawley Borough Council; Lieut. Col. Johnson, Commanding Officer, 103 Battalion REME; Sandra Fruish, Regional Manager South East, Royal British Legion and Alan Tait, Branch Chairman, SSAFA Sussex, the covenant will also help to continue and develop opportunities for 103 Battalion REME to support community activity.

Armed Forces Day raises public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

It also gives the nation an opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from currently serving troops to service families and from veterans to cadets.

Bringing communities together at

Did you know?

There are nearly 150 Armed Forces Community Covenants

across the UK, with each one being unique to cater to the

needs and capabilities of the area.

60-second interviewHoward Bloom

CommunityNoticeboard

Crawley Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets

The first Sea Cadet unit was established in Whitstable, Kent, created by

communities wanting to give young people instruction on a naval theme.

Traditionally old seafarers provided training while local businessmen

funded the Unit Headquarters.

The tradition of community based Sea Cadet Units continues today

with 400 across the UK, each with charitable status enabling them

to raise funds to meet their running costs.

All Units are members of the Sea Cadet Corps and are governed

by the national charity MSSC – the Marine Society & Sea Cadets.

The Royal Marine Cadets was incorporated within the Sea Cadet

Corps in 1955 and the Admiral Commanding Reserves agreed

to sponsor the section.

By 1964 the MCS had grown to 40 detachments and today

there are 117 detachments within Sea Cadet Units across the UK.

Both Cadet units work in partnership with the Royal Navy. The core

purpose is to celebrate Britain’s maritime heritage and contribute

to its future development by supporting young people as Sea

and Royal Marine Cadets.

Q&A with Captain (SCC)

Darren Erb-Smith RMR, Commanding Officer

How long has your group been established?

The Sea Cadet Corps has been established since 1854.

Crawley Sea Cadets have been going since 1957.

Is it open to all ages? Crawley Sea Cadets has various sections. The junior section meets

on Thursdays 7-8.30pm and is for ages 10-12; the Sea

Cadets meet on Tuesday and Thursdays 7-9.30pm and

is for ages 12-18 and the Royal Marines Cadets also meet

on Tuesdays and Thursdays 7-9.30pm for ages 13-18.

Is there any cost? There is an initial joining fee of £60 and monthly subscriptions are

£15 per month. A week-long course will cost in the region of £62.50, which

will include travel, accommodation, course instruction, food and insurance.

This also includes travel where the cadet has to be flown such as to the

training centre in Scotland. A weekend course is in the region of £20 to £30.

How many members does it have? Crawley Sea Cadets has around 50 cadets over the three disciplines.

What activities does it provide? All sorts… RYA Sailing, windsurfing and powerboating, BCU kayaking

and open canoeing, adventure training, rock climbing and abseiling,

rowing, marine engineering, first aid, cook steward, target shooting,

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, BTEC in Public Services, Physical Training,

Sports Leader Awards, all the Royal Marines Cadet skills such as fieldcraft,

map reading etc. plus much much more.

For more information visit us on Tuesday or Thursday evening

between 7pm and 9pm or phone: 01293 529585

Email: co487@btinternet.com

TS Cossack Unit No. 487 Crawley Sea Cadets, Longmere Road,

Northgate, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 8ND

Website: www.sea-cadets.org/crawley

SOCIAL

Age UK West Sussex runs a lunch club and varied activities

every weekday. For more details call 01293 544144

Bingo Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 1.30pm, WRVS

Community Centre. 01293 432510

The BOP Group for Recycled Teenagers (over 50s)

meets at Bewbush Youth Centre on Tuesdays, 2pm.

Jeanette 01293 511356

Broadfield Teddies Mother and Toddler Group meets

at Broadfield Youth and Community Centre, Fridays, 9.30am

Bumps and Babes for pregnant ladies and new mums

meets every Friday, Bewbush Children’s Centre, 9.30am.

01293 651760

Bumps, Babes and Tiddlypeeps group meets every

Tuesday and Thursday, 10am, Furnace Green Community

Centre 0844 243 6098

Chatterbox Club for toddlers, babies and carers

meets every Tuesday, 1pm, St Paul’s Methodist Church,

Northgate. £1.50 per family. 01293 412485

Children and Family Centres provide a range

of activities for families with under 5s. Family

Information Service 01243 777807

Crawley 18 Plus meets every Tuesday at LB1 in Gales

Drive, Three Bridges and has events for 18-36 year olds.

www.crawley18plus.org.uk

Crawley Parish Guild meets on the 4th Tuesday

of each month, 2.15pm, St John’s Church Hall

The main aim of community engagement at Crawley Borough Council is to encourage local residents, as members of their communities, to get involved in the matters affecting where they live or the people they share their community with.

Listening and supporting residents is the best way to achieve this. The council is very committed to providing different opportunities for people to have their say and contribute to ideas and decisions. There have been some great examples recently, including the signing of the Crawley Community Covenant on Armed Forces Day.

We have worked closely with the Crawley TA, British Legion and SSAFA Sussex to draw up the covenant, which raises awareness of the military and aims to encourage the local community to show support to the men and women who make up our armed forces. It was a fantastic event which really helped to celebrate those people who have given so much to protect their country.

I am also involved in looking after Crawley Wellbeing and I’ve recently spent time with the team finding out what they do. The team is made up of very dedicated and enthusiastic people who help town residents get fitter, physically and mentally, and encourage people to quit smoking and generally feel better in themselves.

Being a General Practitioner, this is something I have been very committed to improving and am pleased to see the progress made in offering other levels of support outside the standard NHS facilities.

With health in mind, I have been working with town MP, Henry Smith, and Dr Amit Bhargava, the Chief Clinical Officer for the Crawley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) in helping to form the health plan for Crawley.

The CCG is now responsible for most of the local health services in the town and is working on the Crawley health plan using local evidence and consultation.

I have also been leading on a project to improve Broadfield Barton, which has already had some good results.

The Barton is very much in need of a revamp and we, along with West Sussex County Council, Sussex Police and other partners, created the Broadfield Library and Community Hub. The hub serves as a ‘one stop shop’ for local people to seek advice from a range of organisations like us (CBC) and the police.

Alongside all this I approve decisions on community grants and work closely with the Crawley Community Voluntary Service.

It’s a new and challenging role but it’s proving to be exceptionally rewarding.

Councillor Dr Howard Bloom became Cabinet member for Community Engagement in June. Here, Howard explains all about his new role.

16 17 DemocrAcy crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

Come and play It’s free of charge and there’s so much to do!

Open February to November.

Term times:Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays3pm - 7.30pm

School holidays: Monday to Friday:11.30am - 4pm

www.crawley.gov.uk/play

Holiday Play Care Fantastic, Ofsted-registered childcare at

great prices during school holidays and half

term breaks. Takes place at Waterlea and

Cherry Lane adventure playgrounds for

children aged 5 to 12 years.

£17.50 per day per child (8.30am - 5.30pm)£10 for a half day (8.30am -1.30pm or 1.30pm - 5.30pm)

Discounts are available for multiple

bookings and siblings. See website for offers.

www.crawley.gov.uk/playcare

Children's parties Come rain or shine, all year round,

take over an adventure playground

at weekends for exclusive use.

It’s the perfect venue for active, sociable

children, keen to invite the whole class!

Party times on Saturdays and Sundays are

10am - 12noon, 1.15pm - 3.15pm

and 4.30pm - 6.30pm.

Party prices £100 for Creasys Drive or Millpond

£122 for Waterlea or Cherry Lane

www.crawley.gov.uk/parties

www.crawley.gov.uk/play

Bewbush, RH11 8FN Broadfield, RH11 9HH

Furnace Green, RH10 6SP

Langley Green, RH11 7NX

Look out for the brand new

Crawley Play Service

leaflet or look online for more

information

crawley live ad 210x260mm ad 11/6/13 17:20 Page 1

Inspected by Ofsted and located within the TownHall, Sunrise Nursery is a well established, highquality service for children aged two to five years.

Managed by professional childcare staff whofollow the Early Years Foundation Stage, thenursery comes highly recommended by parents.

To arrange a visit, call 01293 438471or email sunrise.nursery@crawley.gov.uk

SunriseNurseryAffordable childcare for your “little ray of sunshine”

For more details look out forthe new leaflet or look onlinefor an information pack, anapplication form andtestimonials from parents.

“It is so important to usto plan our activitiesaround the children’sinterests. We remainflexible and adaptactivities depending onwhich children are inSunrise each day.”Caroline Hutchinson and Rachel Irvine,

Sunrise Nursery Managers

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StartUp CrawleyPlanning for growth

If you are wanting to grow your business then you should find the time to drop into the 2nd Startup Crawley exhibition.

Designed to be the 1 stop shop to helping you plan for growth.

Stands have been carefully selected to cover the key aspects of taking the next step and growing a business and include:

FSB Information Finance, Tax and VAT advice Banking WSCC Trading Standards Employing staff Prompt Payment campaign Premises - commercial estate agent International Trade Advice desk Websites including online trading IT support CBC – Licences, planning Central Sussex College - Apprenticeships Marketing Serviced offices

Seminars: free registration via the website4.30 – 5pm Using Social Media to market your business effectively

5.30 – 6pmGrowing your business – turning challenges into opportunities Lots of networking opportunities – table for your business cards or flyerswww.startupcrawley.org.ukFor more information call 01403 734431or email info@brc-services.co.uk

StartUp CrawleySetting up and running a business can be a daunting prospect, and it’s a lot of hard work. But it’s also one of the most rewarding things that you can do and can be one of the most positive changes someone can make for themselves and the community they live in.The StartUp Crawley fair returns this September and is a must attend event for any small business and anyone looking to start up a business in Crawley. Run by the Federation of Small Businesses, the fair and seminars on the day are free to attend, but pre-registration is recommended.

StartUp Crawley Fair 2013Featuring expert stands, informative seminars and essential networking, with all the key

information you need in one place to start up and run your own business.

25 September, 2-7pm, Civic Hall, The Boulevard, Crawley RH10 1UZ

Organised by: Federation of Small Businesses

Crawley, Horsham and Mid Sussex Branch. The FSB champions small business owners – the engine of the UK economy.

Supported by:Crawley Borough Council

Stands include: HMRC (tax, VAT etc.), solicitors, accountancy, marketing, FSB information, general advice, IT and websites, plus others.

Workshops include social media for business and getting started in business.

Come along and join us at this free fair.

Meet, talk to and hear from our real life entrepreneurs and business expert.

New Learn to Ride sessions for people with a learning disability – build your confidence and ability to ride a two wheel bicycle

When: Same days as Wheels for Wellbeing open sessions held on a Tuesday, Thursday and every other Saturday

Times: An hour before or straight after any open session

Cost: Only £5 p/h (this applies to child / person with disability only – parent / carer no charge)

Wheels for Wellbeing Saturday Morning Sessions (age 8+)

When: Every fortnight until the end of November

or until weather permits.

Times: 10.30am-12.30pm

Cost: Cost without bicycle: Only £4 p/h (this applies to child /

person with disability only – parent / carer no charge).

Track and instructor only: £2 p/h (this applies to child /

person with disability who brings their own bike).

Sportivate Wheels for Wellbeing Course

Six-week introductory cycling course for young people with

a disability. The course provides quality cycle training and includes

fun games, bike challenges and finishes with a fun recreational

led-ride and picnic with family and friends.

When: Every Thursday starting 1 August to 5 September

Times: 10.30am-12noon

Cost: £25 for full six-week course (this applies to child / person

with disability). Please note: a carer, parent or guardian

must accompany all participants at no cost.

Out There Project for adults with learning disabilities Friday morning sessionsWhen: Every Friday until the end of November or until weather permits.

Times: 10.30am-12.30pm

Cost: £5 per session

Book: Ring Out There on 01293 544773 or Ian Burlinson on 07912 486239.

Crawley Wheels for All Centre is delighted to announce a new partnership with Special Olympics Great Britain and supported by Evans Cycles, Britain’s biggest specialist cycle retailer.Crawley Wheels for All is one of three centres selected to take part in the pilot phase of the Special Olympics Cycling Development project which aims to promote cycling as a healthy and fun activity for people with a learning disability.

The project is supported by Evans’ customers donating spare change to Special Olympics GB (SOGB) through Pennies, the electronic charity box.

The three pilot sites will link up with local Special Olympics groups and other local partners to provide opportunities for people with a learning disability, helping them to learn to ride a bike and take part in regular recreational cycling opportunities with family and friends or through organised local events like Sky Ride.

For more information log on to www.crawley.gov.uk/wfw

Instructors neededIf you like cycling, feel passionate about helping young people and adults with a disability and need to earn some extra cash, then Wheels for Wellbeing could have the job for you.

Crawley Wellbeing is currently recruiting casual instructors to deliver regular Wheels for Wellbeing sessions at the Inclusive BMX Track at Cherry Lane.

Training is provided and instructors will be expected to have good knowledge and experience of working with young people and adults living with a disability OR a coaching or cycling background AND be passionate about helping encourage and support participants to learn how to ride a four, three and two wheel bicycle.

If you’re interested or want to find out more about the Wheels for Wellbeing project contact Alan on 01293 585355, email alan.heaton@crawley.gov.uk or visit www.crawley.gov.uk/wfw

To book all sessions, except the Out There Project, contact Alan Heaton on 07584 281947 or email alan.heaton@crawley.gov.uk

teams up withWheels for AllSpecial Olympics GB

Wheels for Wellbeing Summer Holiday Sessions

– even more opportunities to cycle this summer

When: Every Tuesday starting 30 July to 27 August and every

Thursday starting 25 July to 29 August

Times: Tuesday 10.30am-12noon and Thursday 4-5.30pm

Cost: Cost without bicycle: Only £4 per session (this applies to child

/ person with disability only – parent / carer no charge). Track

and instructor only: £2 per session (this applies to child / person

with disability who brings their own bike).

20 21 WeLLBeing crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

BewbushMarion Ayling – 07886 920815 marion.ayling@crawley.gov.ukChris Cheshire – 01293 542359chris.cheshire@crawley.gov.ukMichael Jones – 07944 578872michael.jones@crawley.gov.uk

Broadfield NorthIan Irvine – 01293 439503ian.irvine@crawley.gov.ukBrian Quinn – 01293 512650brian.quinn@crawley.gov.uk

Broadfield SouthColin Moffatt – 01293 530585colin.moffatt@crawley.gov.ukAlan Quirk – 01293 413853alan.quirk@crawley.gov.uk

Furnace GreenDuncan Crow – 01293 888564duncan.crow@crawley.gov.ukCarol Eade – 01293 614216carol.eade@crawley.gov.uk

Gossops GreenKeith Blake – 01293 435373keith.blake@crawley.gov.ukChris Mullins – 01293 511069chris.mullins@crawley.gov.uk

IfieldJohn Denman – 01293 544442john.denman@crawley.gov.ukChris Oxlade – 07710 900813chris.oxlade@crawley.gov.ukPeter Smith – 07703 502430peter.smith@crawley.gov.uk

Langley GreenStephen Joyce – 01293 409242stephen.joyce@crawley.gov.ukDavid Shreeves – 07752 249984david.shreeves@crawley.gov.ukBrenda Smith – 01293 542535brenda.smith@crawley.gov.uk

MaidenbowerDuncan Peck – 07900 227211duncan.peck@crawley.gov.ukKen Trussell – 01293 883780ken.trussell@crawley.gov.ukLenny Walker – 01293 438625lenny.walker@crawley.gov.uk

NorthgatePeter Lamb – 07729 167084peter.lamb@crawley.gov.ukGeraint Thomas – 07950 926123geraint.thomas@crawley.gov.uk

Pound Hill NorthSally Blake – 01293 435373sally.blake@crawley.gov.ukKeith Brockwell – 07554 889597keith.brockwell@crawley.gov.ukRichard Burrett – 01293 522338richard.burrett@crawley.gov.uk

Pound Hill South and WorthLee Burke – 01293 400230lee.burke@crawley.gov.ukClaire Denman – 01293 544442claire.denman@crawley.gov.ukBob Lanzer – 01293 884789bob.lanzer@crawley.gov.uk

SouthgateHoward Bloom – 01293 863771howard.bloom@crawley.gov.ukLiam Marshall-Ascough –07966 070994liam.marshall-ascough @crawley.gov.ukKarl Williamson – 07872 558223karl.williamson@crawley.gov.uk

Three BridgesBob Burgess – 01293 441204bob.burgess@crawley.gov.ukBrenda Burgess – 01293 441204brenda.burgess@crawley.gov.uk

TilgateNigel Boxall – 07825 680320nigel.boxall@crawley.gov.ukColin Lloyd – 01293 527843colin.lloyd@crawley.gov.uk

West GreenVanessa Cumper – 07825 826835vanessa.cumper@crawley.gov.ukBill Ward – 01293 517053bill.ward@crawley.gov.uk

Henry Smith MP01293 934554 or 020 7219 7043henry.smith.mp@parliament.uk

To make an appointment to see Henry Smith MP please contact him on 01293 934554 or email henry.smith.mp@parliament.uk

crAWLey BorougH counciLLorS

Council contacts

county counciLLorS

Bewbush and Ifield WestChris Oxlade 01293 565779chris.oxlade@westsussex.gov.uk

BroadfieldBrian Quinn 01293 512650brian.quinn@westsussex.gov.uk

Gossops Green and Ifield EastSue Mullins 01293 511069sue.mullins@westsussex.gov.uk

Langley Green and West GreenBrenda Smith 01293 542535brenda.smith@westsussex.gov.uk

MaidenbowerBob Lanzer 01293 884789bob.lanzer@westsussex.gov.uk

Northgate and Three BridgesPeter Lamb 07729 167084peter.lamb@westsussex.gov.uk

Pound Hill and WorthRichard Burrett 01293 522338richard.burrett@westsussex.gov.uk

Southgate and Crawley CentralMichael Jones 07944 578872michael.jones@westsussex.gov.uk

Tilgate and Furnace GreenDuncan Crow 01293 888564duncan.crow@westsussex.gov.uk

your mp

If there is an emergency, the Government’s advice is to ‘go in, stay in and tune in’. These are the frequencies of local radio stations:

BBC Sussex Radio 104.8 and 95.3 FMHeart Sussex 102.4 and 103.5 FM

There are lots of reasons why people form and join local community groups: A chance to meet people who have had similar experiences and who can offer support, advice and friendship; maybe there are developments in a neighbourhood that residents feel strongly about; or perhaps you have simply had a good idea that needs more people to make it happen.

Follow these simple steps to get your community group up and running.

1 Plan a meeting. The people who come to this meeting may become your future members. If the group is going to be quite small – a residents’ association for a block of flats for example, invite everyone concerned to the meeting. Even if people don’t come, it will give you an idea whether enough people think the group is a good idea.

If you don’t know enough people who share your interests, promote the meeting widely. Crawley Community & Voluntary Service publishes a regular newsletter which reaches hundreds of people with an interest in the local voluntary sector.

2 Hold the meeting. Think about the agenda. You want to set out your ideas clearly, especially your aims and the activities or services you hope to provide. Because you are looking for a collective response to the issue, let people know their contributions to the meeting are valuable. CCVS has meeting rooms available for hire to local community groups.

3 Decide who will do what. Usually community groups elect a committee (sometimes know as ‘the board’ or ‘trustees’) to take on specific tasks. CCVS can provide you with information about the committee members’ roles (the chair, the treasurer and the secretary etc).

4 Take minutes of the meeting. These don’t have to be very detailed but they should note any decisions taken and who has taken on jobs. The minutes should list everyone who attended the meeting and the date of the next meeting.

Starting a community group

counciLLorS’ SurgerieS

Three BridgesCouncillor Bob Burgess or Councillor Brenda Burgess hold a surgery at St Richard’s Church, Crossways, from 10.30am on the first Tuesday of every month.

contAct tHe counciL

You can contact the council in a number of ways:

Call: 01293 438000 during office hours and 01293 551636 for out of hours emergenciesMinicom: 01293 405202 for the deaf, hard of hearing or speech impairedFax: 01293 511803Email: comments@crawley.gov.ukWebsite: www.crawley.gov.uk

in An emergency

5 Think about different types of voluntary organisation. From small volunteer-led community groups to registered charities, different ‘organisation structures’ suit different groups. CCVS can help you choose the right structure for your group.

6 Write a constitution. Sometimes known as a ‘governing document’, your constitution will ensure your aims are clear and agreed by your members, and will set out how your group will be run. CCVS can advise what to include in your constitution to make it suitable for your group.

7 Open a bank account in the name of the group. Most high street banks provide accounts for community groups. You will need to have at least two people willing to act as signatories.

8 Consider public liability insurance. When you organise an activity or event, you have ‘public liability’. This means you could be liable for members of the public who experience injury or loss / damage to their property. CCVS can provide you with information about insurance and a list of specialist insurers of voluntary organisations.

9 Involve volunteers and members. Volunteers are the life and soul of the voluntary sector and your members will often have most interest in your activities and services. Crawley Volunteer Centre can promote your volunteering opportunities and help you find the right volunteers for your group. Contact 01293 657148.

10 Publicise and promote your organisation. Chances are there are other organisations and individuals with an interest in what you do, or who are able to provide information, advice and guidance. CCVS works with Crawley Borough Council, Crawley Ethnic Minority Partnership and others to provide a package of support to voluntary organisations.

For more information about starting a community group, contact David Clay on 01293 657158 or email david.clay@crawleycvs.org

Residents can attend meetings held in public at the Town Hall. Questions can be asked at the beginning of Full Council, Cabinet and Overview and Scrutiny. There are special rules for people who want to speak at Development Control – call 01293 438311 for more information.

For more details of the meetings visit the council’s website at www.crawley.gov.uk or call 01293 438549. Meetings start at 7.30pm unless otherwise stated.

Cabinet 11 September

Development Control 5 August, 2, September 23 September

Extraordinary Full Council 26 September

Licensing 4 September

Overview and Scrutiny Commission 9 September (7pm)

Performance Monitoring Scrutiny Panel 16 September (6.30pm)

counciL meetingS

22 23 community crAWLeyLiveAug/Sept 2013

For a more extensive list of things to do visit www.crawley.gov.uk/events

Local playwright Margaret Graham brings

her play to the Ifield Barn Theatre in October.

For more details call 01293 522763 or

visit www.ifieldbarn.co.uk

Mini Skirts and

Revelations

Head to Queens Square for this fair showcasing

handmade crafts including jewellery, gifts, soaps,

baby name illustration, cakes, face painting

and more. For more information

visit www.crawleycraftfair.co.uk

Crawley Craft Fair

Fete and Pet showThe Royal Voluntary Service is holding its free fete and pet show at the WRVS centre in West Green. Fun and games, stalls and a raffle. Pre-register your pet for the show. For more details call 01293 432510

Waterlea Adventure Playground in Furnace Green hosts this free celebration of children’s play with fun and games. This year’s theme is Playful Places and the day will be full of games that all young people can participate in. For more details call 01293 530035 or visit www.playday.org.uk

National Play Day 2013

Aug 812noon - 3.30pm

The Hawth and its grounds play host to a great weekend of workshops, shows and games for circus enthusiasts. See some of the best circus acts in the land followed by a fire show in The Hawth grounds. Weekend camping available. For more details call 01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk

Crawley Circus Festival

Aug 3 - 4from 10am

Oct 2 - 5 8pm

Aug 39am - 6pm

Aug 311am - 3pm

A Celebration of Food and Drink

Aug 11

from 11am

The Hawth stages its first food and drink festival,

a free event celebrating Sussex produce and offering

a chance to enjoy the taste of other cultures.

Food and wine tasting, recipe ideas, cupcakes, jams

and marmalades, handmade cheeses, Caribbean

food and more. Activities for children, music and

entertainment too! For more details call

01293 553636 or visit www.hawth.co.uk