MARCH 2020
£1
THE CUCKMERE CHURCHES
Rector
The Rector’s day of rest is Friday
Revd Prebendary Stephen Stuckes The Rectory, Sloe Lane, Alfriston, BN26 5UP [email protected]
871042
Associate Priest Pastoral Minister
Reverend Christyan James [email protected] Kelly Ellis [email protected]
07595 910443 07903 687705
Parish Administrator Pauline Kennard, The Parish Office, St Andrew’s Church, The Tye, Alfriston, BN26 5TL [email protected]
871093
Website Facebook
www.cuckmerechurches.org.uk St Andrew's Church, Alfriston, Sussex
ST ANDREW, ALFRISTON WITH LULLINGTON
Churchwardens Diana Monteath-Wilson Bill Rendall [email protected]
871143 870057
Secretary to the PCC Sherry Ward - 13 Smugglers Close, Alfriston 870478
Organist Vacant
Bell Tower Captain Pauline Kennard [email protected] 07792 948709
Director of Music & Events Co-ordinator
Kathryn Maulkin [email protected] 07412 526671
ST MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL, LITLINGTON
Churchwardens Richard Hayward - Lavenders, Litlington, BN26 5RA Rosie Beddows - Pipers Cottage, Litlington, BN26 5RA
870383 870139
Secretary to the PCC Claire Hayward - Lavenders, Litlington 870383
ALL SAINTS, WEST DEAN
Churchwardens Brian Paterson - 1 Woodland Cottages, Seaford Susan De Angeli
897065 870466
Secretary to the PCC Trish Bullivent, [email protected] 07927 411032
ST PETER ad VINCULA, FOLKINGTON
Churchwardens Sabrina Harcourt-Smith Tony Catchpole
482036 484877
Secretary to the PCC Julia Caffyn 01435 862830
CUCKMERE NEWS
Editorial The Parish Office, St Andrew’s Church, The Tye, Alfriston, BN26 5TL [email protected]
871093
Advertisements Heather Hurst 07880 723947
We reserve the right to edit any contributions to this magazine with regard to length and content All material for inclusion in the Cuckmere News to be received by the 10th of each month please.
CUCKMERE NEWS - 3 - 2020
March
Stephen writes…….’In pursuit of Spring’
The above title is that of a book by the writer, naturalist and poet Edward
Thomas. Thomas was killed in 1917 at Arras in France and this makes the
context and event of his book all the more poignant. It was written just
before Easter 1913 and chronicles Thomas’s journey by bicycle from
Clapham junction to the Quantock Hills in Somerset (a place I know well).
There had been false signs of Spring early in the season that year and
Thomas wanted to find the real thing. Thomas was a great walker and lover
of nature, partly to help cure his depression. (the Romans had an expression
Solvitur Ambulando – resolve it by walking)
Coupled with the growing threat of war and an atmosphere of uncertainty
Thomas’s odyssey becomes a search for life, joy, meaning and purpose. At
the start he writes of seeing a man buy a caged bird and setting it free, a
metaphor, perhaps for the freedom he is himself in search of and finds. Free
not only of winter but free of spirit. ‘I had found Spring, and I was confident
that I could ride home again and find Spring all along the road.’
March is the start of the Meteorological spring and the season of
preparation for Easter that we are now in. Lent, derived from Old English,
literally means spring. Thomas’ journey in search of freedom is a kind of
parallel to our journey through Lent in search of the liberation from death
that Jesus achieves on the cross and through the Resurrection.
I hope that you are seeing signs of true spring in nature and life and finding
freedom from all that holds us back from enjoying life in all its fulness.
Stephen.
On Tuesday 17th March, 10am in St Andrew’s Church, Reverend Christyan
James will be licensed as Associate Priest for the Cuckmere Churches by
the Archdeacon of Brighton and Lewes, Reverend Martin Lloyd Williams.
As you know Christyan has been acting in this role for a few months now
so we are delighted that the post is being formalised.
CUCKMERE NEWS - 5 - 2020
I was recently asked by a reporter whether in the diocese of Chichester Ash Wednesday
has become more popular – like Christmas is.
My own experience of offering “ashes to go” outside Brighton station was very
informative. Generally, people on their way to work were not very interested and
sometimes hostile.
People with a bit of Christian formation and experience were more pleased to see us. I
sensed that for some of them, this was an invitation to re-connect with the season of
Lent and the renewal of their faith. For others, it was encouraging, giving permission for
the hidden, private practice of their faith to be affirmed by someone else in public.
The message of Lent is cheering and simple: God loves you and the Church is starting
preparations to celebrate that fact at Easter.
But this year, in particular, the ashes with which we began this season of Lent offered a
serious statement of protest.
As destructive fires raged in Australia, ash was everywhere. Our ashes were an
identification with all who are the victim of climate change and environmental
damage. But perhaps more importantly, ash was an even clearer symbol of the Christian
call to repentance, a radical change of heart.
Extinction protests have certainly become more popular. But we might have more yet to
do to make the Lenten discipline of repentance more popular within the Church, in
order to become a catalyst for repentance in society and global change.
My hope and prayer is that we might emerge from this Lent with a greater sense of
reverence for the earth and all its inhabitants. The celebration of Easter will then be
marked by a different, freer, lighter way of living, rather than a return to damaging
habits we had tried to give up for the time being.
+Martin
COMMUNICATIONS BY THE BISHOP OF CHICHESTER
Spring is here! - Come and join us
Alfriston Task Force is back in action; we've got a list of jobs and we welcome even
more helpers like you.
It's fun, it's friendly and it's a fantastic opportunity to look after our village.
One hour at a time is all that's needed; more people make all the difference.
Contact Caroline if you would like to be added to the mailing list
or ring to find out more:
Tel 01323 870536. mob. 07790 897957
Collectibles and Antiques sought
Nick-nacks, memorabilia, cameras, china, vintage toys, jewellery, musical instruments, postcards and photographs … also purchased
Fair prices paid to you in cash Furniture also considered
Please call Joanne or Martin to discuss your requirements 07780 704659 and 07493 394193
Professional, discreet and efficient service with a £10 donation made to St Andrew’s Church Alfriston Restoration Fund with each house call
CUCKMERE NEWS - 7 - 2020
The Electoral Roll of St Andrew’s Church is due to be revised in April this year. The existing
Electoral Roll was created last year and, subject to such revision, will continue in
operation until 2026, when a new roll will be made. This is a revision only and existing
members need take no further action if they wish to remain on the Roll. Any eligible
person wishing to be added to the Electoral Roll of St Andrew’s should complete the
application form, which is available at the back of the church after Sunday services,
and then return it to me or one of the Churchwardens by end March please.
Residents of the Parish who are over 16 and are baptised members of the Church of
England, or are members of a Church in communion with it, are eligible, or if not
resident, have worshipped in the Parish for the previous six months. The Electoral Roll
determines the number of elected members on the Parochial Church Council, as well as
eligibility and voting rights at Annual meetings and higher synods. It gives everyone the
opportunity to keep in touch with the Church as a whole and to play their part in
decision-making.
When completed, the revised Roll will be displayed at the back of the Church for at
least 14 days prior to the Annual Parochial Church meeting. To comply with the General
Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), this will show names only, with no addresses
included. A full copy of the Electoral Roll will be available for inspection at the Annual
Parochial meeting in April.
Geoffrey Davey, Electoral Roll Officer (01323 871468)
ELECTORAL ROLL 2020
TWINNING You would be most welcome to our AGM in the OCC on Sunday March 8th at 4.30pm.
Thanks to Dr June Goodfield our twinning tentacles are stretching far and wide, and
thanks to the Committees, here and in Veules, twinning has become a great success.
This year in Veules there are many events of interest. The first of these is the visit of a
contingent from the 51st Highland Division (The Black Watch) to commemorate the 80th
Anniversary of the evacuation of Veules on the 12th June 1940. The organisation of this
and the history of those days is recorded in Dr June’s recently published book ‘Glory
from Defeat’.
The Rose Festival is during the weekend of June 20/21. This is followed by the Linen
Festival from the 3rd to 7th July. The Linen which is produced from the Flax is grown by
Alain & Patricia Blossville who are friends and keen members of Twinning. Their Farmland
covers a wide area of organically grown flax which is processed to produce an
unbelievable range of products from Surf Boards, to Motor Bike Helmets and much else
besides, all for export from Le Havre.
Just a short distance south of Veules in the village of Blosseville is a Church where each
year at Harvest Festival, they decorate the entire Church with differing displays of
ancient farm implements. On and around the Altar, the Pulpit and Chancel is freshly
baked bread of many varieties plus the bounty of the land and sea. It is well known and
attracts many tourists. In the Churchyard, forever Scotland, are the remains of two
Scottish soldiers.
Tony up the hill
CUCKMERE NEWS - 8 - 2020
Although it is still the middle of winter members of the Cricket club are already looking
forward to the 2020 cricket season. Last year the club finished just outside the promotion
places, but were in contention for promotion for most of the season. Members of the
club will soon be attending weekly indoor nets – we just need an improvement in the
weather! The club always welcomes new members and if anyone would like to
experience the delights of village cricket in a beautiful setting please contact the
captain, John Harmer on 870270. Matches are played on Saturdays [East Sussex League]
and Sundays [friendlies] and some midweek evening games.
Before the new season begins we have two important social events:
Quiz Night in the War Memorial Hall on Saturday 21st March beginning at 7.30 pm. Food is
included in the ticket and there will be a bar raising money for club funds. Teams are a
maximum of 7 and tickets are £7 per head. Contact Barbara Harmer [870270] .
Coffee Morning in the Old Chapel Centre on Saturday 11th April from 10.00 am to 12.00.
There will be various stalls including books, tombola, bric-a-brac, cakes. Donations for
stalls are very welcome and can be collected – please phone 870270.
Everyone very welcome – we look forward to seeing you.
Geoff Ellis – Chairman, Alfriston Cricket Club
ALFRISTON CRICKET CLUB
Our first speaker of 2020 was very interesting. Paul Green trains both
detection dogs and their handlers - the dogs are each trained to detect a
specific scent, usually drugs or explosives, but also people, whether alive or dead. He
brought along two of his dogs, Charlie and Wallace, who quickly made friends with the
audience and were a great hit! We also expect the speaker at the March meeting to
be very interesting - he will be talking about the voluntary band of motor-bikers who
carry emergency supplies of blood and other medical products to and from hospitals -
this meeting will be at the Old Chapel Centre as usual, on Tuesday 17th March at 2.00
p.m., visitors will be welcome but a small donation would be appreciated.
Members have recently been to see "There goes the Bride" at Seaford's Little Theatre,
and have also been out to a lunch -- a good start to the year! There is an interesting
programme of events on the calendar, and new members would be very welcome.
Wendy Day - 870433
ALFRISTON WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
'WINTER EVENSONG'
St Michael's, Litlington
Sunday 8th March at 5pm
This month sees the last of our winter Evensong Services
Please join us as Stephen Rooke returns with his choir
Followed by refreshments - All very welcome!
Contact the Church Office for more information on 871093
A Clean Sweep
Ross Atabey & Son
Chimney sweeping - including smoke test and certification.
01435 812 153 07941 315214
Fiind us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/acleansweephoram
Member of Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps.
CUCKMERE NEWS - 11 - 2020
Alfriston Pre-School are looking for a small piece of wooded land to use in the village to
run our forest school nature sessions from.
The children at the Pre-School get great benefit from exploring in the wild and learn how
to take care of the environment in our community.
We are looking to use the site term times only 3 times per week for 2 hours each session.
We are looking to either use the land for free or for an upkeep donation.
CAN YOU HELP US? Please contact Sally at the Pre-School. 07812335981
LAND WANTED FOR ALFRISTON PRE-SCHOOL’S CHILDREN
Jane Byer will be speaking about the Sanctuary Café (drop in centre for migrants,
refugees and asylum seekers) at our next Breakfast, on Saturday 14th March at St Luke's
church, Seaford.
Starting at 8.30 am and over by 10am.
If you would like to attend please call Jane Anderson (01323 870075) a few days
beforehand, so that we can give an estimate of numbers for the catering team.
Cost is £5 payable at the door (not £6 as I inadvertently put in your last month's
magazine)
What is the Sanctuary Café?
At the Ladies Breakfast on Saturday 14th March, Jane Byer will be speaking about this
weekly "café" where a warm & welcoming community offers access to immigration
advice, friendly support, English conversation classes and a play corner for children, plus
free hot drinks. Asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants find friendships as well as
practical assistance there. We anticipate that Jane, as a regular volunteer and member
of the managing committee for Sanctuary Café, will be a well-informed and
enthusiastic speaker. If you would like to attend the Breakfast at 8.30 at St Luke's church,
Seaford, please phone Jane Anderson a few days beforehand. This helps us with
catering plans. Cost is £6 payable at the door.
Ruth Butlin
LADIES BREAKFAST REMINDER
Pro Musica are currently rehearsing Handel’s Messiah for their concert in March. For a
number of reasons, including the current road closures, we have decided to hold this
concert in Lewes at Trinity Church, Southover.
It is disappointing not to be at St. Andrew’s after many years, but we hope to be back
for our summer concert. I hope that many of our supporters in Alfriston will be able to join
us in Lewes. The concert is on Saturday 28th March at 7.30 pm and we look forward to
seeing you there.
Geoff Ellis Chairman – Pro Musica
PRO-MUSICA CONCERT
CUCKMERE NEWS - 13 - 2020
Saturday 21st March at 7.30pm at Seaford Baptist Church
Mozart ‘solemn Vespers & Purcell ‘Come, ye Sons of Art, Away’
Soloists: Rachel Shouksmith (Soprano), Rebecca Anstey (Alto)
Andrew Wicks (Tenor) & Jozic Katz (Bass)
Colin Hughes Conducting & John Eady Organ Continuo
Tickets £10 - Children free from Newberry Tully Estate Agents, Church St Seaford
Reserve online www.seaford-choral-Society.com
Or at the door
SEAFORD CHORAL SOCIETY, SPRING CONCERT
CUCKMERE NEWS - 15 - 2020
We started the year with an inspiring talk by Steven Moore (Rapkyns Nursery) and
follow it in March with our AGM. As well as being a social event, we will be
electing new members to the committee, so if you are interested in becoming
more involved, why not consider putting yourself forward. Contact Jane Alvey on
870036 for more details. In the meantime here is our calendar for the year.
Cuckmere Valley Horticultural Society events for 2020
Tuesday March 10th 7.30pm AGM (bring a dish to share)
Thursday April 23rd 7.30pm Talk by Rose and Robin Lloyd on
The Long House Garden at Westdean
+ visit to be arranged.
Thurs May 21st 2.30pm Talk Peter Lovett “Finding Orchids on the Sussex Downs”
Saturday August 15th 8.30/1pm – 5pm Annual Show
Sunday August 16th 11am – 4.30pm Annual Show
Thursday October 8th 7.30 pm Talk TBC
Tuesday November 10th 7.30pm Members Evening (dinner)
Thursday February 4th 2021 2.30pm Talk TBC
Please note there is to be only one Annual Show in 2020.
COFFEE MORNING – Follers Manor in May
Dates to be confirmed for MEMBERS OUTINGS
- Trip to Leonardslee Gardens in June
- Trip to the Hampton Court Flower Show in July
- Visit to The Long House Garden, Westdean, TBA
Any questions please contact Jane Alvey (870036) Caroline Buckle (870861) or Nicky Vassell (871995).
CUCKMERE VALLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
CUCKMERE NEWS - 16 - 2020
CHURCH SERVICES IN MARCH
Sunday 1st March - Lent 1
Alfriston: 8.00 am Holy Communion
Litlington: 9.30 am Family Communion
Folkington: 10.30 am Holy Communion
Alfriston: 11.00 am Morning Worship
Sunday 8th March - Lent 2
Alfriston: 8.00 am Holy Communion
West Dean: 9.30 am Family Service
Folkington: 10.30 am Mattins
Alfriston: 11.00 am Holy Communion
Litlington: 5.00 pm Evensong with visiting choir
Sunday 15th March - Lent 3
Alfriston: 8.00 am Holy Communion
Litlington: 9.30 am Holy Communion
Folkington: 10.30 am Mattins
Alfriston: 11.00 am Family Service
Tuesday 17th March - Lent 4
Alfriston 10.00 am Licensing of Rev’d Christyan James as Associate
Priest
Sunday 22nd March - Mothering Sunday
Alfriston: 8.00 am Holy Communion
West Dean: 9.30 am Mothering Sunday Holy Communion
Folkington: 10.30 am Mothering Sunday Service
Alfriston: 11.00 am Mothering Sunday Holy Communion
Sunday 29th March - Passion Sunday
West Dean: 11.00 am Benefice Service
Wednesdays in Lent:
Litlington: 7.00 pm Compline and Lent Meditiation
CUCKMERE NEWS - 17 - 2020
LITLINGTON 10yr. Avg ALFRISTON 10yr. Avg.
Jan 2.41” 4.17” Jan 3.28” 4.3”
Oct-Jan 20.74” 16.12” Total 2020 3.28
Rain fell on 17 Days Rain fell on 17 Days
Wettest day 26th with 0.51” Wettest day 26th with 0.56”
RAINFALL
SNIPE’S RELIGIOUS ENCOUNTER
Pauline and I were walking up to St Andrew’s
church together on Christmas Eve when we
heard a commotion in the front porch. On
quick inspection we found a Snipe flapping
about in some distress. In haste, Pauline
went off to find a box whilst I scooped it up.
East Sussex Wildlife rescue were called and
collected the bird within the hour.
So we were delighted when this article
appeared in their quarterly magazine last
month. We thought you might be interested
to see it too.
If you ever find any wildlife causalities who
need assistance why not give them a call.
Their rescue line is: 07815-078234.
A superb charity helping wildlife
all around East Sussex.
C J Norman
Prayers are said in St Andrew’s from 9 to 9.30am on weekdays
Alfriston: 10.00 am – Holy Communion every Wednesday
There will be no service on Wednesday 18th March
West Dean: 5.30 pm – Evening Prayer every Thursday
Men’s Breakfast: Chestnuts - Tuesday 17th March at 8.30am
Local Catholic Church: St. Thomas More, 54 Sutton Road, Seaford
(For times of services contact Parish Office 01323 892427)
This Lovely Snipe was found on Christmas Eve in Alfriston Church. The bird appeared to be stunned and allowed his rescuers to pick him up. The bird was admitted into WRAS’s centre at Whitesmith. We all prayed for a speedy recovery and within a few days he was fit and well enough to be returned and released again.
Extract from ‘The Rescuer’ winter edition of WRAS wildlife rescue magazine
CUCKMERE NEWS - 18 - 2020
Historical Society
Thursday 19th March 2020 at 7.30 p.m.
Deans Place Hotel, Alfriston, BN26 5TW
The Smyth Memorials in St Andrew’s:
A Double Crimean War Tragedy
Speaker Mike Hinton
Admission: Members free; non-members £5
St Michael's Church
‘OUR CUCKMERE VALLEY…A CELEBRATION’
Fri 19th June to Mon 22nd June 2020
10am to 5.30pm
refreshments…delicious lunches, TEAS, COFFEE, CAKES!
stalls…BRIC-A-BRAC, PLANTS, BOOKs
any plants, bric-a-brac, books can now be collected and stored, plus we have freezer
space for cakes!
fundraising in aid of the re-shingling of our church spire!
CONTACT KELLY ELLIS ON 07903687705 or [email protected]
LITLINGTON
FLOWER FESTIVAL 2020!!
WIZARD CARPET &
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning
including hard surfaces and wooden floors, flea and moth
de-infestation.
Local East Sussex business trading for 20 years.
Call for a quote
07786 437924
01825 723685
CUCKMERE NEWS - 21 - 2020
Zita (also known as Sitha or Citha) was born into a poor
family at Monte Sagrati near Lucca in the province of
Toscana, Italy in 1218. When she was twelve, she was sent
to work as a maid for the wealthy Fatinelli family at Lucca
where she remained until her peaceful death in 1272.
Legend has it that a star appeared above the attic where
she slept at the moment that she died.
She was cruelly treated by her mistress, master, their
children and fellow servants. She was despised for her
devout conscientiousness and would rise early each
morning to hear mass and spend time in prayer. Eventually her kindness, modesty and
Christian values, her administrations to the sick and visits to criminals in prison, won her
praise and earned the trust of the Fatinelli family and she was put in charge of the
household affairs.
She is the protector of domestic servants, bakers (to this day families bake a loaf of
bread in celebration of her feast day) and she is frequently invoked in the search of
finding lost keys or when crossing rivers or bridges. Her popular cult grew during the late
medieval era.
The name Zita is from the Persian and means ‘virgin’. She is usually depicted wearing
housemaid’s clothes, holding a pitcher or loaves or a bunch of keys.
After one hundred and fifty miracles had been attributed to Zita’s intercession and
recognized by the church, she was canonized in 1696. Her body lies in the Basilica di
San Frediano in Lucca.
God bless my work today and grant that this home may be a place where peace will
prevail and love will be abundant.
SdeA.
ST ZITA - Whose Saint’s day is celebrated on April 27th
CUCKMERE NEWS - 22 - 2020
CLERGY HOUSE
We’ve been really busy at the Clergy House during the closed season.
There is always lots to do to prepare for opening at the beginning of
March each year. We are currently liaising with the designers to
produce our 2020 property leaflet which then gets distributed to
relevant local tourist outlets with the aim of encouraging people to visit
us. The leaflet will also have our opening times and a list of events that we have planned
for the year. Last year we welcomed just under 24,000 visitors and we are hoping for an
increase in numbers in 2020 as we take part in the National Trust’s 125th anniversary
celebrations.
We have also been working on a new exhibition for this anniversary year where our
visitors can learn more about the founding of the National Trust and the Clergy House’s
special place in its story as the first building saved by the Trust.
Our Conservation Cleaner has been working hard to ensure that all furniture, floors,
ironwork and general house contents have been thoroughly cleaned and any
conservation work carried out.
Our amazing team of garden volunteers have been planting bulbs, sowing seeds,
mulching, weeding, pruning roses, sweeping paths and this week raking off all the silt on
the lower lawns in the hope that some of the grass may have survived the flooding.
After a hectic winter, it will be lovely to have the house and garden open again,
hopefully full of visitors greeted by our full team of staff and volunteers.
We hope to see you soon.
Lynne Pilcher
Visitor Experience Officer
THE ALFRISTON CHRISTMAS TREE
In reply about The Village Christmas Tree (February 2020 Cuckmere News). I too had the
same thought; should we be having a Christmas Tree as well as our lovely Oak tree and
after speaking to several different people my answer is yes, because Christmas trees
take a few years to grow depending on size, of course . While they are growing they are
helping with our clean air and people are employed to grow and sell the trees.
Some of my earliest memories are going to see the very large Christmas tree which our
local council used to put up in Hove, such memories. I hope these memories are being
made in our village square, especially when we are singing and Bev has the mince pies
and mulled wine !! !
As in everything there are for and against arguments but thank you for your kind
comments, so glad you enjoyed the tree too. .
Sylvia Daw
LOCAL PLUMBER
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01323 870770
CUCKMERE NEWS - 25 - 2020
There is a lot to be thankful for at FSW in the last month. We have been able to begin
another parenting course in the Uckfield area to help parents who are struggling to
manage their children’s behaviour (after a very successful course in Haywards Heath last
year); our diary is getting full with invitations to speak about our work at various churches
and community groups; and we had a very successful lunch in Hastings last week that
introduced FSW to a number of local people. We are holding another lunch in Worthing
later this week that we hope will be equally as positive. We also welcomed Jessica to the
FSW team – Jessica is a student social worker on placement with us until the end of May
and she will be working with Caroline in Cuckfield deanery and Michelle in Uckfield
deanery.
Although we have a lot to be grateful for, our families are finding the new year really
challenging. With almost 80% of our families experiencing mental health issues, the lack
of support from local authorities because of funding cuts is making it very hard for them
to access specialist support, which in turn can damage family relationships. The
commitment that we give to our families to be there for as long as they need us is even
more important in these situations as we are often the only figure of stability.
We are looking ahead to spring and summer, with registration for our Easter walk on
Monday 13 April now open – please contact Melissa on 01273 832963 for more details.
Our printed spring newsletter will also be with subscribers towards the end of February so
do keep an eye out for this.
January’s work in numbers
• 167 individual meetings with families supporting 11 grandparents, 164 parents and
227 children
• 42 supported meetings with other agencies
• 23 group sessions supporting 33 grandparents, 199 parents and 110 children
• 116 food deliveries made
Prayer points
• Give thanks for the success of our Winter Fuel campaign, which has enabled us to
support hundreds of families during the winter months with heating costs
• For strength for our staff, many of whom are experiencing
challenging personal situations at the moment
• For Mrs B and her family, who are living (3 adults and 5 children) in a
house with no heating and only one working sink
Nikki Kerr, FSW Director of Fundraising and Marketing
FAMILY SUPPORT WORK
EASTER EGG APPEAL - Locally, we are now collecting Easter Eggs to be
distributed to families that wouldn’t otherwise have any this year. Please
leave them in the collection boxes in the churches or if you would like them
collected phone Marjorie 870673. With thanks for your continuing
generosity.
CUCKMERE NEWS - 26 - 2020
The UK will leave the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) as it leaves the EU. Under the
terms of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, most EU regulations governing CAP farm
support will cease to apply to the UK from exit day. Therefore as parliamentarians we
are, in Parliament, setting a new legal basis to enable Ministers to continue direct farm
support payments in 2020. The Direct Payments to Farmers (Legislative Continuity) Bill has
been going through Parliament and it enables the Government to make Direct
Payments to farmers for the 2020 scheme year– giving much-welcomed certainty to our
farmers and food producers.
As a result the Government has guaranteed the annual farm budget for each year of
this Parliament with nearly £3 billion of funding provided for 2020. The UK Government
funding of £2.852 billion will top up the remaining EU funding to match the total funding
for direct payments that was available for 2019.
After this, the Agriculture Bill will provide a new system of farm support, moving away
from direct payments in England towards an approach where farmers are paid public
money for the ‘public goods’ they produce – such as enhancing air and water quality,
tackling climate change or improving animal welfare. Farmers and land managers will
be supported over a seven-year agricultural transition period, giving them time to plan
and adapt to the new approach.
From meeting with local farmers before the election, I know that the uncertainty
surrounding farm payments and the new agricultural policy is a concern and that
certainty of direction is top of the agenda. Now that a decision on farm payments has
been taken I will be holding another meeting for local farmers, being organised by the
NFU and if this is something you are interested in attending do let me know by emailing
The Agriculture Bill, which will shortly be returning to the Commons, will see
us move towards a new system that rewards farmers for enhancing the
environment and producing the food we all enjoy in a sustainable way. I
am keen that farmers from Lewes have their say and that the new policy
works for them to ensure they have the stability and security they need
going forward. Farmers are one of the key guardians of our landscapes and it is
important that they are at the heart of decisions going forward.
Maria Caulfield, MP
UPDATE FOR LOCAL FARMERS POST BREXIT
LIVE LENT
“#LiveLent: Care for God’s Creation” is the
Church of England’s Lent campaign for 2020.
It explores the urgent need for humans to value
and protect the abundance God has created.
Download the app or find out more from churchofengland.org/livelent
Iyad Sughayer - Piano Recital
St Andrew’s Church, Alfriston, Saturday
21st March, 7.30pm.
Come and join award-winning, International concert
pianist, Iyad Sughayer in a celebration of music by
Mozart, Liszt, and Chopin. He will also perform music by
Khachaturian featured on his debut CD, recently
released on BIS records.
Mozart: Sonata in D major K.576
Liszt: Harmonies poétiques et religieuses: Invocation; Andante
lagrimoso; Funerailles; Cantique d’amour
Interval
Chopin: Four Mazurkas Op. 33 Khachaturian: Piano Sonata
Iyad studied in the UK at Chetham's School of Music, the Royal Northern College of
Music and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance where he was awarded
the Gold Medal in 2018. He has performed extensively in the UK, Europe, the Middle
East and the US.
Recent highlights include his concerto debut with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra;
selection as a City Music Foundation Artist; graduating from the RNCM with the
prestigious International Artist Diploma; and of course, the release of his debut CD of
works by Khachaturian. The CD clearly demonstrates Iyad Sughayer’s close affinity
with the Armenian composer’s music, and has been critically acclaimed:
“... this Jordanian-Palestinian player shines” International Piano Magazine, Critic’s
Choice, February 2020
“It’s a release that leaves one eager to hear Sughayer in other repertory while
eloquently arguing that Khachaturian’s piano music deserves re evaluation as
something more than teaching pieces” Gramophone Magazine, February 2020
“.... a strong debut that will bring pleasure and enjoyment on repeated hearings”
Piano Journal, December 2019”.
Iyad says “I have good friends in Alfriston, and I’m delighted to come and play, and
contribute to the rich variety of cultural events in the village”.
Tickets £12 (including a donation to the Church Restoration Fund) are
available in advance from: www.eventbrite.co.uk
For further information: contact 07952 298313
CUCKMERE NEWS - 29 - 2020
WHAT IS THE ‘PCC’?
‘What seems impossible to you
is never impossible to God!’
Matthew 19:26
In the long history of the Church of England, the Parochial Church Council
(PCC) is a relatively recent invention. Until the early years of the 20th
century the administration and finances of a parish were the legal
responsibility of the incumbent and the churchwardens. The members of
congregations had little say in the running of the church except in electing
the churchwardens. Parochial Church Councils were first given legal status
in 1919.
The PCC is now the main decision maker of a parish. Its members are clergy,
churchwardens and others elected by the Annual Parochial Church
Meeting (APCM) of the parish.
It has the responsibility, along with the incumbent to promote the mission of
God in its parish. Legally, the PCC is responsible for the finances of the
parish. It also has ultimate responsibility for the care and maintenance of all
church buildings and their contents. Although these responsibilities are
executed by the churchwardens, all PCC members must share in the
oversight.
PCC members are elected for a term of 3 years. After that period they can
stand for re-election or make way for new members.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a PCC member please
speak to Stephen.
Alfriston 28th March 10 for 10.30 am at Deans Place Hotel
Litlington 30th March 7.30pm in Litlington Village Hall
West Dean 20th April 7pm in West Dean Church
Folkington 29th April
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETINGS
CUCKMERE NEWS - 30 - 2020
Sun 8 Twinning AGM - OCC - (p7)
Winter Evensong - St Michaels’s - (p.8)
4.30pm
5.00
Tue 10 C V Horticultural Society AGM - (p.15) 7.30 pm
Thur 12 Cake, Tea & Chatter at Abbeyfield 3.30 pm
Sat 14 Ladies Breakfast - The Sanctuary Café - (p11)
Cuckmere Meanderers—meet at Market Cross
8.30 am
2.00 pm
Mon 16 Alfriston Parish Council Meeting - AWMH 7.15 pm
Tue 17
Men’s Breakfast - Chestnuts
Licensing of Reverend Christyan James - St Andrew’s (p.3)
W.I. - OCC (p.13)
8.30 am
10 am
2.00 pm
Thu 19 CV Historical Society - Deans Place Hotel - (p18) 7.30pm
Sat 21
Piano Recital—St Andrew’s Church, Alfriston— (p28)
Seaford Choral Service - St Leonards, Seaford - (p13)
Cricket Club Quiz Night - AWMH - (p8)
7.30pm
7.30pm
7.30pm
Sun 22 Mothering Sunday Service at St Peter Ad Vincular and
afterwards; Cookham bloodhounds meet - (p24)
10.30 am
11.45-12.30
Tue 24 Prayers for the World - OCC 2 pm
Sat 28 Alfriston Annual Parochial Church Meeting - (p.29) Pro-Musica concert - Trinity Church, Lewes - (p11)
10 for 10.30am 7.30 pm
Mon 30 Litlington Annual Parochial Church Meeting - (p.29) 7.30 pm
Coming Soon
11 April Cricket Club Coffee Morning - OCC -(p.8)
13 April Alfriston Sponsored Walk in aid of Family Support - (p.9)
19 - 22 June Litlington Flower Festival - (p.19)
Mon Art Club in AWMH 2 - 4.30 pm
Tues Bell Ringing at St. Andrew’s Church (Check First) 7.15pm
Tue 1st 3rd 4th The Octaves - OCC 7.15 pm
Tues Scottish Dancing - AWMH 3.30 - 5pm
Weds Yoga in the School Hall 4.30 - 5.45 pm
Weds Short Mat Bowls in AWMH 7 pm
Thurs 2nd & 4th Bridge Club AWMH 2.00 pm
Thurs Coffee Mornings in Litlington Village Hall 11 am
Fri Yoga in AWMH 1.45 - 3.00pm
Fri Chair based Exercise at Abbeyfield 3.30 pm
DIARY FOR MARCH 2020
Alfriston Wealth Management
• Tax efficient Investment Planning
• Inheritance Tax Planning • Retirement Planning and
Pensions Auto-enrolment • Life Cover and Income
Protection 1 North Street, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5UG
Telephone: 01323 871489 07977 109892
www.sjpp.co.uk/alfriston
The Tye Alfriston BN26 5TL
www.oldchapelcentre.com
Tel 01323 870536
Newly refurbished with excellent facilities including kitchen & servery
Ideal for a wide range of functions
Licensed for Wedding Services
Fully equipped for 80 – 100 people
Disabled access and limited private parking