Hastings Trust

A unique opportunity to shape the financial future of Hastings Trust

2011-08-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

An opportunity to shape the future of Hastings Trust.

Hastings Trust is a development trust with a twenty year history of facilitating community led regeneration in Hastings and St Leonards through active partnership working and direct service delivery. We have made progress towards financial independence, however we recognise that there is more to be done. In time for our 21^st anniversary, Hastings Trust is looking to appoint suitably experienced consultants to support the charity in developing a sustainable financial future through two important pieces of work:

Review of Hastings Trust Business Model REF TF0811/1 and Review of Enterprise Development Potential REFTF0811/2

For the tender documentation and information for applicants please contact Mel Bonney-Kane on 01424 446373 or e-mail mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

Closing date for receipt of completed tenders 9am Monday 12^th September 2011

Myplace at St Mary in the Castle Update

2011-08-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

On behalf of Hastings Trust and our partners I am extremely disappointed in the decision of the Department for Education not to fund Hastings Myplace at St Mary in the Castle.

Our proposal had been initially submitted in September 2008 and we have worked with young people to develop their ideas into our ambitious proposals for a youth led and managed arts and cultural facility at St Mary in the Castle. With a team of dedicated architects and other specialists we translated young poeple’s ideas into a scheme of preservation and modernisation of the building which not only aimed to protect and preserve, but also maximise the contribution that the building could make in the current cultural and social context of the town. Our plans would have protected the building, improved it, and put young people at the heart of managing it and preserving it for current and future generations.

Alongside provision of dedicated youth facilities incorporating support, advice and development opportunities, a cultural and arts centre open to the general public, a new cafe venue, and an acoustically improved auditorium, the scheme would also have created about 15 paid jobs, countless volunteering opportunities and training and development opportunities for young people and the wider community in all aspects of managing a cultural facility.

When the government changed in May 2010 we were certain that funds would be withdrawn due to the massive public sector spending cuts that were anticipated – in fact we received a letter in December 2010 telling us that funds were still available and that we would need to review our position and confirm whether we were still willing and able to go forward. We brought partners back together and engaged consultants to carry out the due diligence process that we need to do to ensure that the organisation is aware of and protected from untoward risk, and to ensure that we were still confident in our ability to deliver. However, when we received notification that our project would not be taken forward, the decision had been informed by a report from the BIG Lottery which contained a number of crucial misrepresentations – such as stating that we had not achieved planning permission when in fact this was achieved over a year ago – and to assess our viability they had not compared like with like and had completely disregarded the USP of an iconic performance venue and the associated income generation potential. We were given the opportunity to appeal directly to the Department for Education and we took a cohort to London to meet senior civil servants where again we tried to make our case – despite this and a written appeal we failed to convince Ministers of the viability of our proposals and therefore the funding has been withdrawn.

The loss of this opportunity will have a major impact on young people in the town particularly in the context of significant changes in the provision of support and youth development services. We are also aware, through the condition surveys and other investigative works that have been carried out on the building, that a significant capital injection is needed to undertake remedial works necessary to protect St Mary in the Castle.

Despite the news, the experience of developing the project through working with young people, the design team and other partners, has been a positive one and a great example of collaborative project work. We believe that everyone can be proud of their contributions, regardless of the outcome. Our design team, co-ordinated by Derek Rankin and Guy Holloway from Dunn and CTM Architects, was inspirational and it is such a loss that the scheme cannot now be put in place as it would have made such a significant difference to the building and the historic crescent.

Hastings Trust is keen to see that the building remains in use as an arts and cultural centre for the benefit of the whole community (including young people) and we are pleased to learn that Hastings Borough Council has extended the tenure of Barbara Rogers for another year. We would be happy to work with the Council and the community to look at sustainable solutions for the building, as well as continuing to work with young people to help them to address their concerns about lack of suitable facilities and reductions in provision.

Mel Bonney-Kane

Executive Director

Myplace at St Mary in the Castle - latest update

2010-12-10T02:32:00.000-08:00

PRESS STATEMENT 8^th December 2010

Trustees and management of Hastings Trust are clearly delighted with the confirmation from Tim Loughton MP that the capital funding for Myplace has been safeguarded and that the proposed scheme for St Mary in the Castle has the opportunity to go forward, despite the odds.

However, it is clear that in the 12 months since the submission of the capital delivery plan and the business plan to BIG Lottery (who are administering the funding on behalf of HM Government) the economic and funding climate has significantly changed. The impact of public sector funding cuts on the in-principle commitments that partners made to seeing the scheme taken forward must be appreciated, along with the impact of wide-ranging austerity measures on the potential users and supporters of the facility. We will need to work closely with our Borough and County colleagues to re-assess the sustainability of our scheme in the light of this new financial climate.

We are confident that by working together we can find an appropriate way in which this ambitious and much-needed development can be taken forward, and we will be seeking an early meeting with partners to consider our options.

Mel Bonney-Kane

Executive Director

Notes:

Hastings Trust, working in partnership with young people, the community, public and third sectors, was awarded and in-principle grant of £4.25m from HM Government’s Myplace programme to develop world-class youth arts and cultural facilities at St Mary in the Castle. A capital delivery plan and business plan were submitted in September 2009 in order to ‘unlock’ that funding, with notification expected in March 2010. This confirmation was not received due to changes in government and the Comprehensive Spending Review. We have now received notification from Tim Loughton MP and the Dept for Education that funds are secure, however with a recognition that robust future revenue funding plans are in place due to the economic climate. This will require a review of the proposed scheme as it stands and its future business plan.

The original intentions of the Hastings Myplace project are stated below:

Myplace is about youth & community involvement, providing a safe but inspirational place for young people to go, and ensuring a sense of place & belonging that is shared with the wider community. Current users of St Mary in the Castle will find this youth-managed arts & cultural facility more than receptive to their active involvement, and we believe that St Mary in the Castle will become more vibrant, accessible and utilised than ever before.

The project will ensure that young people are connected to the town’s heritage. It will raise aspirations, create opportunities, and will ensure that St Mary in the Castle can continue to stand proud as a very real celebration of the arts, culture and creativity inherent in Hastings.

BIG Lottery Reaching Communities Programme recognises Hastings Trust employability and community confidence work

2010-10-12T03:20:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded just under £500k from the BIG Lottery to deliver a new project called Community Enablers which enables people to play a greater role in their communities whilst improving their skills, confidence and employment prospects.

The project will commence in November 2010 and will run for three years. We will work with local residents, community groups, social enterprises, voluntary organisations and local businesses to create active opportunities for involvement - contact myself or Heather Smith (heather@hastingstrust.co.uk) for more information.

We are currently in the process of recruiting new staff to deliver the project - please contact me for further information and an application pack - mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 29th October.

Please see the following press statement from the BIG Lottery - and huge congratulations to Project Artworks who have also been awarded funds thorugh this programme

http://www2.biglotteryfund.org.uk/pr_121010_se_rc_big__500k_for_hastings_?regioncode=-uk

Hastings Trust AGM

2010-10-05T03:23:00.001-07:00

Our AGM will be held on Thursday 11th November 2010 at F-ISH Gallery, 45 Robertson Street, Hastings

We have chosen to delay our AGM this year due to the current economic situation, public sector spending cuts and the likely impact on the voluntary sector - as we have to be able to provide members and other stakeholders with clear information about the future of the Trust it was felt advisable to await the outcome of the Comprehensive Spending Review and various funding applications before holding the Meeting.

On behalf of the Trustees, I look forward to welcoming you to our AGM which will be held at 12.30 (registration from 12.00)

Members and other staekholders will be receiving their invitations over the next few days.

Hidden Histories

2010-09-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Heritage Lottery Fund is keen to support projects focusing on stories that have been lost forgotten or untold, and as such, 'Hidden Histories' is a priority theme for the South East England team.
'Hidden Histories' themes could include
. settlers in the south east
. forgotten heroes
. overcoming prejudice
. local traditions
. vanishing environments
. disappearing communities
. lost, forgotten, untold stories
. village secrets
. threatened species
. languages and dialects
. cultural traditions and customs.

They are particularly encouraging applications for grants between £3,000 and £10,000.

In particular, they would like to receive applications from first-time applicants and community groups. They are therefore encouraging groups to apply for grants between £3,000 and £10,000, with the expectation that applications will contain less detail than is required for larger grants.

HLF South East England team welcomes applications for projects with a clear heritage focus that meet our criteria. Applications must be made under our existing 'Your Heritage' grants scheme.

Get involved:
They will fund heritage projects which result in celebratory events, performances and exhibitions, but these should be the culmination of a project in which participants have had an opportunity to learn about and enjoy the heritage. A project which is only concerned with organising a one-off celebratory event, performance or exhibition is unlikely to meet our priorities.

Help with your project idea in Hastings?

The HLF South East team will be holding a pre-application workshop in Hastings on 22nd September (11-1pm)at UCH

To register your interest in attending the workshops, please call 020 7591 6171 or email southeastengland@hlf.org.uk. you can alos contact mel@hastingstrust.co.uk for more information and to book a place.

Places are limited but there will be a further information event in London if you are unsuccessful in securing a place at the Hastings workshop.

In addition to this, the HLF South East Team offers a pre-application service to give feedback on your project idea before you submit your application.

Contact Anna Jarvis (annaj@hlf.org.uk), Christine Garwood (garwoodc@hlf.org.uk), Daniela Carpinelli (Danielac@hlf.org.uk) or Sarah Wicks (wicks@hlf.org.uk) if you would like further information or to discuss your project idea.

www.hlf.org.uk

Hastings Trust staff and volunteers become pirates for the day

2010-08-01T02:50:00.000-07:00

Pirate Day In Hastings Old Town! 2010

Event Times 10:30 to 23:00 on Fri, 6th Aug 2010

The pirates return to Hastings for a day of colourful and spectacular action!

Captain Jack Sparrow, Will Turner and Barbosa meet again as the Old Town goes back in time with swashbuckling action and music as Pirates converge on Hastings once again. Come dressed as a pirate and be in their crew as they march on Hastings! Hastings Town becomes Pirate Town!

Join them for the Guinness Book of Records attempt – the greatest number of pirates in one place. The current record is held by Portland, Oregan, USA, with 1670 pirates.

Let's make Hastings "The biggest Pirate Day in the World"

From 10.30am - Childrens entertainment in George Street: nautical music, hair braiding, face painting, treasure hunt and musicians.

Treasure Hunt forms from Old Town Carnival Week office, on the seafront.

1pm - Guinness World Record attempt - Follow the drums onto the beach to await the arrival of the Pirates. Expect the unexpected!! Adjacent to the lifeboat house
Requirements for pirate costume, to be considered a 'Pirate' and to be included in the world record attempt:

* Pirate style hat or bandana,
* An eye patch,
* An accessory:sword or hook or musket or pirate flag or parrot.
* An appropriate striped or white t-shirt or shirt,
* Appropriate trousers, pantaloons,tatty trousers, rolled up trousers or flowing skirts.

2pm - Pirate Procession. Join Jack Sparrow, Barbosa, Will Turner, Elizabeth Turner and scores of drummers as one of the largest colourful Pirate processions ever sets off to march through Hastings Town Centre and back into the Old Town. Starts at lifeboat house, ends at Torfield Close in the High Street (top end), but can be joined at any point. There is sure to be action!

'Watch out … the law’s coming … scatter … back to your ships, me hearties!'

3.30pm - Scenes from Pirates of Penzance performed in Butlers Gap. Meet the Pirates and have your photo taken with them.

4pm - Live music and Punch & Judy in the High Street.

5pm to 7.30pm - Piratical Barbecue at Hastings Motor Boat & Yacht Club, Rock a Nore. Ahoy there me hearties! All swords must remain sheathed, and pistols shall not be cocked. Pieces of eight or coins of the realm accepted. Well behaved parrots and children welcome. Heave away and haul away with special guests, Hastings Sea Shanty Crew, on board from 6pm to lead the singing of lusty songs of the sea and rousing sea shanties. Proceeds from the barbecue to Hastings Borough Bonfire Society.

8pm - Pirate Songs and Sea Shanties at the Stag, All Saints Street. Yo ho me hearties, drink up!

Four Eco-Apartments For Sale

2010-07-31T02:18:00.000-07:00

Hastings Trust has just completed a demonstration project which involved undertaking an eco-refurbishment of a Victorian terraced property in Cambridge Gardens applying the highest environmental standards that we were able to.

The property was converted using quality local contractors, volunteer trainees and four Future Jobs Fund employees.

The end product is four beautifully refurbished apartments which have a low environmental impact and greatly reduced running costs.

All four flats are now available for sale or to rent.

Future Jobs Fund - lets show our support

2010-07-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Call for Evidence: Youth Unemployment and the Future Jobs Fund

The Work and Pensions Committee is holding a short enquiry into Youth Unemployment and the Future Jobs Fund (FJF) and is calling for written evidence from interested organisations on the extent to which the FJF has succeeded in matching new work experience opportunities to young unemployed people, the strengths and weaknesses of the FJF programme, the likely impact of the decision to end the FJF in March 2011 rather than March 2012 and how the transition from FJF to the Work Programme will be managed, including the part to be played by the Government’s proposal to fund new apprenticeships.

Any written evidence should be submitted before the 10th September 2010 as an MS Word document, of no more than eight pages (including an executive summary). Evidence should be emailed to workpencom@parliament.uk

Hastings Trust has participated in the Future Jobs Fund programme and has been lucky enough to employ ten FJF young people across various projects - our experience has been a really positive one and we hope it has been so for the young people involved. Despite being sceptical about the scheme at the start, we were keen to provide these opportunities for young people and haven't been disappointed. To be able to provide real paid work experience for our young people has been a privilege and we truly hope that it will help them to secure permanent work in the near future.

I am personally disappointed that one of the most promising welfare to work scheme is not being given the opportunity to demonstrate its value by the new coalition government and would encourage participants, both employers and employees, to contribute their experiences to this enquiry.

Castle Ward Forum AGM 19th June 2010

2010-05-25T06:15:00.000-07:00

Local residents & people who work in the Town Centre, your presence is requested at the Castle Ward Forum Annual General Meeting

Saturday 19 June 2010
11am in Hastings Town Hall

Plus vintage film show: Pete Murray takes you to Hastings, Baim Collection,1983

Come and hear what has been achieved in the past year, elect the new committee, find out how you can get involved and see vintage Hastings through the eyes of DJ Pete Murray!

The film lasts 19 minutes

Coffee and Pastries will be served from 10.45am

RSVP: ericasmith@f2s.com
Tel: 01424 201113
Erica Smith, 6 Wellington Square TN34 1PB

Job Vacancy at the Trust

2010-05-17T03:51:00.000-07:00

Hastings Trust has a vacancy for a position of full time Finance and Administrative Officer to work with our management team and projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the dedicated Trust team which aims to promote social, economic, cultural and environmental regeneration of Hastings and St Leonards.

Excellent financial management, administrative, written / verbal communication skills are required alongside a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office packages and Quickbooks (or equivalent accounting packages). ICT skills will be tested at interview.

For more information and an application pack please contact Paul Ashdown, Director's PA, on 01424 452523 or directorspa@hastingstrust.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 5pm Monday 14th June, with interviews to be held on Wednesday 23rd June.

New Trust Newsletter Out Now

2010-04-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

The latest Hastings Trust newsletter is now out - please pop into our Resource Centre, 35 Robertson Street, to pick up a copy, or e-mail me at mel@hastingstrust.co.uk for an electronic version

Spoken word at F-ISH Gallery

2010-04-26T03:28:00.000-07:00

On May 15th F-ISH tales will celebrate the 5 senses through the medium of art and the spoken word.

Start 6.30PM to 8PM. Admission free.

F-ISH tales is hosting a reading on Saturday at F-ISH Gallery by local poets Jan Hedger, Joe Fearn and…set within the current exhibition of paintings ‘KRITIKOS’ by Peter Waldron – show extended till 30th May.

The acoustic space of F-ISH Gallery provides a unique opportunity for synergy of art and sound. The sensual experience will be completed by provision of soft drinks and an alcoholic punch.

F-ish Gallery has excellent wheelchair access and facilities.

Further events from F-ISH tales to promote art and the spoken word will take place during the America Ground celebration on July 4th. Regular monthly readings and events by poets, authors and artists are planned at F-ISH. Catch them!

Any queries, Joe Fearn, F-ish Tales Coordinator: info@f-ish.co.uk 0845 4090562

‘…to experience the 5 senses: Clink glasses to 'hear' the toast - Touch the glass - See the colour of the wine - Smell the fragrance - Taste the flavour’. Tortilla Soup. (Paraphrase) Film, 1981.

F-ISH Gallery 45 Robertson Street Hastings East Sussex TN34 IHL

Future jobs Fund

2010-04-26T03:18:00.000-07:00

A government sheme to provde six month job opportunities to unemployed young people, the Future Jobs Fund, is actively running in Hastings, and we at Hastings Trust are supporting it.

We have been able to take on 10 new staff under the scheme who are ably supporting our projects and partnership activities, and we hope that they will find the experience useful in securing themselves future permanent employment after their six months.

We have 4 Eco-Fab technicians working on our Skills2Build project - Paul, Brendan, Sam and Joe.

We have the Trust's first ever paid receptionist, Matt, working at HQ along with Volunteer Support Assistant, Nick, HELP Administrator Lorraine, and Director's PA, Paul who provides support directly to me.

and under our partnership agreement with F-ISH Creative Trust we have two Gallery Assistants, Emma and Jack.

I am happy to welcome them all to the Trust and am confident that this scheme creates a great opportunity for young people to develop their skills and aspirations for future employment.

Myplace Hastings

2010-01-15T10:28:00.001-08:00

Despite the article in the Observer today I would like to stress that BIG Lottery have still not made their decision on whether to convert the in-principle grant into a full award - we are in on-going communications with them and have no reason to anticipate that the bid will be rejected.

We are aware of the impact that the delays have on the current tenant, however we are not in a position to be able to speed up the funders' decision making processes.

It is unfortunate that the Observer continues to perpetuate misinformation about the project.

When we get the decision we will announce it, whether it is favourable or not. If you have any questions about progress please direct them to me at Hastings Trust on 01424 446373 or mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

Hastings Trust Annual General Meeting

2009-09-07T11:28:00.000-07:00

That time has come round again - our annual celebration of all that the Trust has done.

The AGM will be held on Thursday 17th September at F-ISH Gallery in Robertson Street (the same venue as last year) at 12.00 for 12.30.

Refreshments will be available and there will be a chance to meet staff, trustees and volunteers.

If you would like to vote at the AGM you need to be a member, and if you would like to stand as a trustee you will also need to become a member. Please make sure your membership is up to date and if you would like a membership form to join, or more information about being a member or a trustee, please give me a ring (446373) or drop me an e-mail (mel@hastingstrust.co.uk).

I look forward to seeing you on the 17th.

MyPlace at St Mary in the Castle

2009-09-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm really pleased to report that I've just come from Hastings Borough Council's Cabinet meeting where there was unanimous support for granting the lease of St Mary in the Castle to Hastings Trust to enable the project to go forward.

Tomorrow we submit all of the documentation that we've been working on with young people, architects, and other partners for the past six months and hopefully by the end of December we will have had our 'in-principle' grant converted into a real offer of cash!

It's great news for Hastings Trust and for young people in the town, as well as for others who are interested in a sustainable and vibrant future for St Mary in the Castle.

The new facility will be called The Point at St Mary in the Castle, a name selected by young people, and its new logo has been designed by our own youth client team member, Elissa Seddon, a graphic design student at the University of Brighton - well done Elissa.

More updates as they happen

Employability Through Experience Pilot

2009-09-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

We are just about to launch an exciting new work placement initiative funded through Hastings Borough Council's Area Based Grants programme.

Steve Shonk has been appointed as Employer Liaison Officer, and Ben Browton as Personal Adviser. Both started at the Trust today to work with Heather to deliver the project.

Keep an eye on our website and in the Hastings Trust Resource Centre for more information, and a huge welcome to Ben and Steve.

New Vacancies at the Trust

2009-07-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

Hastings Trust has two vacancies to deliver an exciting pilot project, Employability Through Experience, funded through Hastings Borough Council's Area Based Grants (Special Measures) Programme:

Personal Advisor - 16 hours per week, £10 per hour

Employer Liaison Officer - 37 hours per week, £28,860 per annum

Both posts are fixed term until 30th June 2010

For more information and an application pack please contact me on 01424 452523 or e-mail mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

The closing date for completed applications is Friday 31st July, 5pm

Meet the architects

2009-07-09T02:27:00.001-07:00

Myplace @ St Mary in the Castle – Meet the Architects

Tuesday 14th July 3pm – 7pm

Hastings Trust Resource Centre

Hastings Trust and the appointed architects, Dunn and CTM, will be available for an informal ‘drop-in’ at Hastings Trust Resource Centre, 35 Robertson Street, between 3pm and 7pm on Tuesday 14th July to talk through ideas and design concepts for St Mary in the Castle. We are keen that the wider community has an opportunity to meet the architects and discuss their own views and concerns.

Please pop in on Tuesday to find out more.

Are you looking for studio space?

2009-07-09T01:44:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for studio space?

We are working on a new project in partnership with Hastings Trust.

Currently we have:

12 self-contained studio spaces with amenities, a large basement and a shop with separate access. The spaces are bright, clean and in a very good state of repair.

We would like to hear all your suggestions for its use and are particularly keen on the idea of the building working as a whole, creating a recognisable identity that will form a distinctive aspect in the further development of the America Ground Hastings, where the space is located.

There will be a meeting at F-ISH on Thursday 16th July at 5pm.

Please contact:
Simon Hedges 0796 4545 702 simon@f-ish.co.uk
Carol Biggs 01424 446373 carol@hastingstrust.co.uk

F-ISH
Gallery 45 Robertson Street Hastings TN34 IHL
Office 6 Wellington Sq Hastings East Sussex TN34 1PB
Office 0845 4090560 Gallery 0845 4090561 Bookings 0845 4090562
www.f-ish.co.uk info@f-ish.co.uk education@f-ish.co.uk events@f-ish.co.uk

Myplace Update

2009-07-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

MyPlace at St Mary in the Castle Update June 2009

For those of you that are not yet aware, we now have the architects confirmed that will be working on the St Mary in the Castle project – a collaboration of two local firms, coming together as Dunn & CTM. The selection process included a vote from the young people who attended the design day and witnessed 3 very different presentations.

Due to the tight schedule laid down by the Big Lottery, Dunn & CTM are very keen to undertake another 2 or 3 design workshops with young people in a bid to draw together and tighten up the ideas we have collected through various consultations. The first of these workshops was held on Monday June 22nd at St Mary in the Castle. The idea behind it is to engage the young people in situating the ideas within St Mary’s using structural plans and a model of the building to see the feasibility of the suggestions made and start focusing on design layout etc.

The youth client team working on this project recently had a day trip to the Sorrell Foundation’s Somerset House, where they participated in several workshops surrounding design and facilities for young people. After lunch they were given a tour of the Roundhouse in Camden to see what work was done within this Grade 2* listed building; especially considering the structural similarities. The young people that attended enjoyed the day and gained lots more ideas around designing and placing facilities within St Mary’s and the constraints it has due to its listed status.

Jodie, Youth and Community Engagement Officer, is currently going out to schools and local youth agencies to promote myplace and encourage greater participation from young people across the whole town. We have a summarised copy of Dunn and CTM’s presentation that was shown at the design day which available to be shown to young people and the wider community - should you know any agencies/organisations that may want to see this then please do contact Jodie so that arrangements can be made.

We are aware that there are some questions surrounding the involvement of the wider community in the facility once it is up and running, and also in the design ideas for St Mary in the Castle. The aim of the youth hub is to create a world class facility for the young people of the town, so it is a must that the young people have a great impact on the design layout and the chosen facilities to be placed within St Mary’s, however young people themselves want to wider community to make use of the building, and it is a key output of the funding that we provide intergenerational opportunities. Young people will welcome the community into the building, will help them to access the facilities and resources available, and will work with the wider community to promote community cohesion and joint working. The widest possible involvement and use of the building is essential to the sustainability of the project. Young people themselves will be presenting design ideas to the wider community (date in July to be confirmed), and there will be opportunities to feedback and help to refine the ideas into the final design concept. There will be an exhibition of ideas during August, prior to the submission of the final detail to the funders, and further opportunities for involvement beyond.

Notwithstanding the fact that young people are key to guiding the design and facilities, we are keen to hear your views and options regarding what facilities and resources you would like to see in the building and therefore we encourage you to contact us with your ideas, or if you would like to be more involved.

Contact details:
Jodie Taylor – Youth and Community Engagement Officer
jodie@hastingstrust.co.uk
Mel Bonney-Kane – Executive Director
mel@hastingstrust.co.uk
Carol Biggs – Assistant Director
carol@hastingstrust.co.uk

Telephone 01424 446373

Independents Day in the America Ground

2009-07-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

You are invited to join us in celebrating the beginning of the next chapter in the historic story of the America Ground Hastings on Saturday July 4th 3pm - 6pm at F-ISH Gallery, 45 Robertson Street, The America Ground, Hastings TN34 1HL

'Independent Day' and partners will be launching the new America Ground logo and website www.theamericaground.co.uk

'Independent Day' is working closely with Designcrew, Hastings Trust, Cmc, Sea Space, the residents of the America Ground and the White Rock and America Ground Business Group.

For further information and to R.S.V.P. please contact Simon Hedges and John Knowles on 0845 4090560 or e-mail events@f-ish.co.uk

Pathway to Construction 2009

2009-06-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

Saturday June 6th saw the third year of the Pathway to Construction event held at Alexandra Park. A great day, bigger than previous years, this years event was opened by Cllr Eve Martin, Deputy Mayor, Hastings Borough Council, compered throughout the day by Lauren McFee of Respond Academy, and entertained by three local bands. Throughout the day there were stalls, workshops and activities, and a schools' construction competition, which was won by Filsham Valley School working with Booker and Best. A contractor led event, this was a great example of partnership working to aim to build awareness of the construction industry, particularly amongst young people.

Thanks to Hastings Borough Council, George Stone Ltd, ConstructionSkills, Booker and Best, Filsham Valley School, Timber Frame-It, Claverham School, Westoaks, Rye College, Sussex Coast College, Bexhill High School, Willmott Dixon, New Horizons School, Mclaren, Homewood School, JD Architects, Icklesham Joinery, Playden Primary School, Winchelsea Primary School, Hastings and Bexhill Wood Recycling Project, Trade Paints, Broxbourne Plant, Product Development Centre, Interplay, Myplace Hastings, Paper Pod, Eco-Fab, Chalkdown Lime, Amazonails, F-ISH Creative Trust, Respond Academy, Underclass, Killing the Senses and The Reason in Jealousy.

We will all now be working on the development of next years event - if you would like to be involved please let us know

Youth and Community Engagement Officer

2009-06-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that Jodie Taylor, Youth and Community Engagement Officer (Myplace), started working with Hastings Trust in May. Her role requires her to work with young people and the wider community to ensure that they feel involved in and able to influence work on the youth arts and cultural facility proposed for St Mary in the Castle. Contact Jodie on jodie@hastingstrust.co.uk

Myplace Hastings - Job Opportunity

2009-03-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

We are currently recruiting for a part time (21 hours per week) Youth and Community Engagement Officer on a one year fixed term contract to support the development of the MyPlace @ St Mary in the Castle project.

For more information and for an application pack please e-mail me on mel@hastingstrust.co.uk or telephone 07837 612788 / 01424 452523.

The closing date is 14th April with interviews to be held on the 16th / 17th April.

4.2 million investment in youth facilities in Hastings

2009-03-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be able to announce that Hastings Trust has been awarded over 4.2 million from the MyPlace programme. Please see the extract of the press release on the Big Lottery website:

The funding is the result of successful bids to the Department for Children, Schools and Families’ (DCSF) myplace programme, administered by the Big Fund (BIG), the non-lottery arm of the Big Lottery Fund.

In Hastings, a huge grant of over £4.2 million is awarded to Hastings Trust who will work with a number of other local organisations, including Hastings Youth Council, Hastings Borough Council, and East Sussex County Council, to deliver the Hastings Hub project. A town centre building will be refurbished to create a central place for young people in Hastings aged between 13 to 19 years old. At the Hub they will have their own live performance area, music studio and digital media workshop and will also be able to find practical support and advice on training and employment, sexual health and mental health issues.

Mel Bonney-Kane, Executive Director, Hastings Trust, said: “ We are delighted to be able to develop this exciting project with the young people of Hastings - it will create a fabulous resource to help our young people create their own opportunities which enable them to fulfil their greatest potential.”

The project will provide young people in Hastings with many new opportunities, encouraging them to learn new skills and also take on ownership and responsibility of the Hub as they will have a key role in designing and managing it themselves.

Today I had the pleasure of accompanying Billy Thompson (Chair) and Elissa Seddon (Vice-Chair) of the Hastings Youth Council to Hoxton Hall in Hackney for the press launch of the My Place programme.

Hastings Trust invests in its people

2009-02-27T00:34:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to announce that, following our Investors in People review yesterday, our assessor is recommending that Hastings Trust retains its Investors in People status. Well done to everyone in the team - volunteers, trustees, and staff - for working so hard, and working together, to ensure that we continue to meet the standard.

Energise Hastings!

2009-01-13T02:13:00.000-08:00

Energise Hastings
A club for everyone interested in reducing fuel bills and tackling climate change through energy use in the home.

Launch meeting

9.30 a.m. for breakfast
10 a.m. ~ 12 noon

Saturday 24 January 2009

Bridge Community Centre
361 Priory Road, Ore Valley,
HASTINGS TN34 3NW

• Make your home more energy efficient through draught proofing and insulation.

• Explore how to generate your own electricity and heating from renewable energy sources such as solar panels (photo voltaic and solar thermal), small wind turbines, wood burning stoves and air & ground source heat pumps.

• Learn about the different ways that energy can be generated, which technology is best for your home energy needs and which grants are available.

• Take the practical steps to get renewable energy equipment installed, find out about local training opportunities, become an accredited installer.

For more details or to confirm your attendance at the launch meeting contact:

Derrick G. Knight - Project Coordinator, Energise Hastings
Email: energisehastings@googlemail.com Mob: 07812 795537

or Chantal Lass - Sustainability Officer, Hastings Borough Council
Email: class@hastings.gov.uk Tel: 01424 451483

HBC Community Partnerships Funding

2009-01-10T08:08:00.000-08:00

We're really excited and grateful that Hastings Borough Council has supported our consortium to the tune of £126k over two years to deliver vocational and life skills training. The Consortium is made up of Hastings Trust, Hastings Furniture Service, Horizons Community Learning and the Fellowship of St Nicholas. Watch this space to see how you can get involved when the project launches - we can't wait to get started.

Hastings Trust Festive Bash and Shutdown

2008-11-30T11:50:00.001-08:00

The Annual Trust Festive Bash will be held at 35 Robertson Street from 12.30 to 3.00 on Friday 19th December 2008. Food and drink will be available. Come and join us to celebrate the festive period.

The Trust will be closed from 19th December to 5th January 2009

Calendar Girls (and Boy)

2008-11-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Well done to everyone for the fundraising effort for the Arts Forum. A reminder to all that the calendars are available to buy for £10 from the Arts Forum, Hastings Trust and the Azur.

Thanks to everyone for their support

friends of the arts forum present..........

2008-11-14T09:04:00.000-08:00

Calendar Girls (and Boy)

2008-11-07T10:35:00.000-08:00

Tickets for the launch party on 20th November at Azur are now available at Hastings Trust Resource Centre reception, 35 Robertson Street, for £5.

Calendar Girls (and Boy)

2008-11-05T08:13:00.000-08:00

Hastings Trust is supporting Hastings Arts Forum in its aim of raising funds to progress its activities. A few weeks ago 11 lovely girls and 1 lovely boy posed for photographer Irene Bakundukize in order to create our own version of the Women's Institute infamous calendar. Hastings College kindly donated their time to do marvellous things with hair and makeup - wish I could keep them, my hair was fabulous!

An evening of celebration to launch the calendar is to be held at The Azur, Marina Pavilion, on Thursday 20th November 8pm til late. Tickets are £5 in advance or £6 on the door and can be purchased from Azur Reception, Hastings Arts Forum and Hastings Trust. The ticket price includes a complementary Azur cocktail and a raffle ticket.

There will be a catwalk of the all the calendar girls (and boy), though not in our calendar 'costumes' (or lack of them!!), an auction of the original prints presided over by my lovely Simon, live band, dj and disco.

Calendars will be available to buy on the night - £8 each

Hope to see you there.

Job Opportunity with the Trust

2008-10-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

Hastings Trust has a vacancy for a part-time position of Assistant Director – Assets and Enterprise to work with our Executive Director to maximise the impact of our asset base and to develop new enterprise within the organisation. Hours are negotiable and the salary offered is £30,000 pa (pro rata).

This is an exciting opportunity to join the dedicated Trust team which aims to promote the social, economic, cultural and environmental regeneration of Hastings and St Leonards.

For more information and an application pack please contact Mel Bonney-Kane, Executive Director, on 01424 452523 or e-mail mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 17th November

Coastal Currents 2008

2008-08-18T11:54:00.000-07:00

There's lots of great stuff going on for Coastal Currents this year…it's all in our brochure, which you can pick up around town, but here are some highlights for your diary…

Thursday Late & Live (4 Sept 4-7pm) in Hastings Town Centre

FREE Family fun:

Dragon Heart Beat: a smoking, bass-thumping dragon

Ladies of the Waves: the world's only dry-land synchronized swimming

The Dinner Party: a lesson in etiquette on a roving table

Wildman : running through the streets

Le Grand Peepshow: a sexy, surreal live show

In and around Priory Meadow.

Fair Maid of the South East (Fri 5 Sept 7pm //Sat 6 Sept 2pm and 7pm) at Hastings Castle

A barnstorming tale of pirates, romance and misunderstanding on the high seas, by Third Party Productions. Swordfighting, live music and a galleon on wheels. Suitable for all the family.

Adults £8 / Children (under 11) £3. Call 0845 274 1001 to book.

Live Arts Weekend (Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sept) in Alexandra Park (various sites)

Arts in the Park featuring:

Etiquette (10am– 5pm) at eat@ the Park Cafe: Star in your own performance, wearing headphones which provide directions. The New York Times describes this experience as "gripping..."
A half hour slot costs £5 for two people.

Call 01424 717464 to book.

Also at live arts weekend...

Cine Yurt (12pm-5pm) nr bandstand: 'Bygone Hastings'. FREE . Celebrating Hastings' heritage as one of the first places to make and screen films as public entertainment.

Sound-scape (13 Sept only, 3pm) Bandstand: FREE Live performance from singer/songwriter Claire Hamill

Control (19 Sept 8pm) Masonic Hall, East Ascent, St Leonards

Fantastically energetic performers from Nunah Physical Theatre Company draw you into the spirit of their dwelling. This show will make you laugh, empathise and gyrate in your seat! Followed by a DJ until 12 midnight.

Entry restricted to 15 years and over.

Tickets £8, can be purchased in advance from Spikes Café, 39 Norman Road.

A Midsummer Night's Dream (Sat 20 Sept and Sun 21 Sept 7pm) at St Leonards Gardens

Eyeline Production's abridged version of Shakespeare's comic tale of duped and doped lovers, fairies and magic returns by popular demand to the beautifully restored St Leonards Gardens. This is a promenade performance – dress for British Summer!

Adults £8 / Children (under 11) £3.

Call 01424 201192 / 07903561007 to book.

The free Coastal Currents brochure is available from Hastings Information Centre, Queen's Square,

Tel: 0845 274 1001

Hastings Trust AGM

2008-08-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

Join the Trust now so you can vote at the Annual General Meeting. Membership forms are available at the Resource Centre, 35 Robertson Street, or by contacting Peta by e-mail at peta@ hastingstrust.co.uk
We are looking for nominations for new Board members - join us in supporting the economic, social, cultural and environmental regeneration of Hastings.
If you want to know more about what is involved in being a member of our Board of Management give me a call on (01424) 446373
Our AGM will be held at the exciting new arts space in Hastings, F-ISH, on the ground floor of the Creative Media Centre, 44-45 Robertson Street, Hastings.
The gallery will be open on Thursday the11th September for the meeting from 12 noon for a 12.30 start, with lunch provided. Please confirm your attendance by e-mailing me at mel@hastingstrust.co.uk

If you would like to join the Board we need to know by 5.00pm on 30th August at the latest.
I look forward to seeing you on the 11th September.

Coastal Currents is coming

2008-08-08T03:22:00.000-07:00

Coastal Currents returns to Hastings from 29th August to 21st September 2008 with its annual celebration of cultural offerings and three weeks of contemporary visual and live arts. For full details of what's going on please look out for the programme and check out the website www.coastalcurrents.org

Hastings Trust AGM

2008-08-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

The Annual General Meeting is fast approaching - it really doesn't seem like a year since the last one when I was still completing my application for Christine's job!!
This year our AGM will be held over lunch in the new f-ish gallery in Robertson Street (at the bottom of CMC2) on 11th September.
Invitations will be coming out soon along with our fantastic annual review.

MyPlace

2008-08-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

MyPlace is government funding being administered by the Big Lottery. Worth up to £5 million per project the Department for Children, Families and Schools wants to fund 'world class' youth facilities and Hastings Trust is working with the Borough and County Council, along with local young people to put a bid together. Its a lot of work to do but if we're successful it will provide state of the art facilities for young people, planned and designed by young people and ultimately managed by young people. This will keep me busy until the end of September when the bid is due in!!

Hot off the press

2008-05-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, just a quick post to let you know that the new Hastings Trust newsletter will soon be dropping through your letterbox or into your inbox. We would welcome any comments on the content. Please also note that there is an application form for Trust membership in the inside back cover. Thanks to Kevin for his tireless efforts in putting the newsletter together with the staff team's contributions, and the volunteers who are preparing the mailout as I write.

Creating community assets

2008-04-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hastings Trust has been working in partnership with Hastings Borough Council, Hastings Voluntary Action and other stakeholders to bid for funds from the Big Lottery Community Assets Fund to secure money to refurbish Jackson Hall in order that it can be passed into community ownership to act as office and incubation space for the third sector. We heard last week that our bid for approximately £750,000 has been successful. A great example of partnership working, this project demonstrates the commitment of the local authority to help to provide the right environment for a thriving third sector. Thanks must go to Glyn Carter, Economic Development Manager at HBC, and Steve Manwaring, Executive Director of Hastings Voluntary Action, for their commitment to and assistance with putting the bid together. Now the hard work starts with putting together a capital build programme and business plan to secure the sustainability of the asset into the future. More information is available on Hastings Voluntary Action's website www.hastingsvoluntaryaction.org

Watch this space for more updates as they happen.

News updates

2008-03-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

Once again work has kept me so busy I've not had time to post.

So......what's been going on?

Community assets transfer - working in partnership with HBC, HVA and the wider community a bid has been submitted to the Community Assets Fund for funding to convert Jackson Hall, Portland Place from the Tressell Training base to a new community hub. If successful in our bid for 3/4 million, the building will be refurbished and transferred by the Borough Council into the ownership of the community. We've also had facilitated workshops with the Development Trusts Association (as you know, Hastings Trust is a member of the DTA) to help partners to identify the needs and best uses for the building. We've got through the first stage cull and are hoping for a decision by the end of March. Your support is needed to help this valuable bid go forward. Thanks must go to the Council for their commitment and willingness to transfer such a valuable asset to the community, and thanks in particular to Glyn Carter, Economic Development and Inclusion Officer, for his hard work and support.

Working Neighbourhoods - HBC will receive almost £2.2 million funding for 2007-08 to deliver a programme of initiatives aimed at helping to support employment and enterprise development in Hastings. I had the opportunity to facilitate a workshop at the working neighbourhoods conference held at the Town Hall recently which will inform the delivery of the programme. It is important that the role of the third sector in enabling community economic development and inclusion is recognised and I am happy to work with partners to advocate this position. Get in touch if you want to know more.

Hastings Voluntary Action AGM and annual conference - this excellent event was held at Horntye Park and I was elected onto the Board of Hastings Voluntary Action. This is great for me as it will help to strengthen links between two key third sector infrastructure organisations in Hastings, and was a personal pleasure as I am a relative new-comer to the sector in Hastings - so thanks to everyone who voted for me. I look forward to serving on HVA's board and supporting the incredible work of this key organisation.

Welcome to Respond Academy - I am pleased to be able to report that we have welcomed Respond into the ground floor of our premises at Silchester Mews, St Leonards. I look forward to being able to work with JC and Pablo and support their excellent work.

And more property news - our state of the art training facility at Linton Viaduct, Braybrooke Terrace is in the process of being leased to our private sector training partners Study Xpress who have been key to the delivery of construction training with our Skills2Build project. Study Xpress' excellent work should be commended as should their commitment to Hastings shown by the recent opening of their second training facility in Western Road, St Leonards.

The Resource Centre, Robertson Street - thanks to the investment of Hastings Community Resource Ltd, watch out for new and improved facilities within our resource centre. This has commenced with the installation of an all-singing, all-dancing colour photocopier which is available for use by local residents and groups for community printing.

Volunteering opportunities - as you probably know our resource centre is staffed by an fabulous team of skilled and professional volunteers, but we are always looking for more. If you want to join our team full training and support is available. It's a great way to gain valuable experience to help you to find paid work, and is a fantastic way to support your community and your local Development Trust. If you want to know more, call in and speak to Heather.

www.hastingstrust.co.uk in redevelopment

2008-02-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, its been a busy month so apologies for not posting here.

I would like to thank Kevin Carias, long time Hastings Trust-er, for his on-going work in redeveloping our website. The front page has now been updated and Kevin is now working with the team to ensure that all the pages are up to date. This may take some time so please bear with us. If there is anything in particular that you would like us to include on the site please let us know.

Kevin is also in the process of putting together our long overdue newsletter so keep an eye out for it arriving in your inbox or through your letterbox.

My big bro' got married

2008-01-17T11:59:00.001-08:00

Say hello and congratulations to my gorgeous brother Sean and his beautiful wife Frances. They got married in Calgary, Canada, just before Xmas but unfortunately I couldn't be there.

Sean and Frances are both acclaimed poets who usually make their home in Hackney and hopefully they'll be back here in the UK with us soon.

You can find Sean's blog at http://abandonedbuidlings.blogspot.com (but for those of a sensitive nature be aware that Sean's work is far from U rated!)

Council Restructure

2008-01-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

As my former life was Regeneration Programme Manager at Hastings Borough Council I am sure that you will all appreciate that the Council restructure is close to my heart. Notwithstanding the fact that my former colleagues are effected, the importance for the wider community should not be underestimated. Now is the time that we need to be formulating a considered a response to the Chief Executive. The deadline for responses has been extended to 23rd January and I can provide further details about the proposals. Community partnerships, neighbourhood renewal (including the wardens), economic development and regeneration are all effected by the restructure. If you want to work with me to put together a response please give me a ring or drop me an e-mail.

Arts in Hastings
In relation to provision for arts and cultural development, there is to be a special meeting on 22nd January at 7.00pm at Hastings Arts Forum, 36 Marina, St Leonards on Sea, where Penny Precious, HBC's Cultural Development Officer, will be giving a presentation on the impact of the proposed restructure on the arts in Hastings. If you want to find out more and have a view to give, I strongly encourage you to come along and join us at the meeting.

Hello!

2008-01-17T11:17:00.000-08:00

Hello friends, its been a while since I posted so I thought I'd say hello. I have a number of things to update you on which I'll do over the course of the evening. Firstly though you'll notice, regular visitors, that my photo has changed. New year, new hair colour! But I've spent at least a fortnight walking round Hastings with people not recognising me! So, I don't have a twin - it is me! See you all later

Support Hastings Old Town Residents' Association's Post Office Campaign

2008-01-04T06:45:00.000-08:00

Please join with us in supporting Hastings Old Town Residents' Association in their campaign to oppose the proposed closure of the Old Town Post Office in George Street.

HOTRA has asked the community for support in fighting the proposed closure and has submitted a number of petitions to our MP, our local political leaders, and to the Government Office for the South East, along with letters of support to the Post Office consultation team. We now have to play the waiting game, but I feel that it is valuable to note the passion and commitment with which HOTRA are spearheading this campaign and it is clear that there will be no giving up without a fight. I am committed to providing HOTRA with whatever support they may require in taking this campaign forward.

For more information please contact Dick Edwards, Chair of the Old Town Residents' Association at East Hill House, 13 Tackleway, telephone 01424 437069

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T06:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all of our friends - I hope that 2008 shall be a memorable and exciting year for all of us.

The Trust is always looking for new members to get involved in our work so make a new year's resolution and commit yourself to supporting the regeneration of Hastings and St Leonards by supporting your local development trust.

Trust membership is open to both individuals (aged over 18) and organisations and membership benefits include:
* entitlement to vote at our AGM to elect Board members and to determine policy direction
* receipt of our Annual Report
* receipt of our newsletter and other Trust information / updates
* personal invitations to Trust events

An application form for membership and a copy of our Memorandum and Articles of Association are available from Peta McGarry at the Resource Centre. Subscription rates are as follows:

- Individuals £10.00 per annum
- Students, senior citizens, unwaged £4.00 per annum
- Organisations £20.00 per annum

Festive Shutdown

2007-12-19T06:05:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know that the Hastings Trust Resource Centre will be closed over the festive period. We will close our doors following the Festive Bash tomorrow, December 20th, between 12 noon and 3 pm, and then will re-open on Thursday 3rd January.

I wish you all a happy and restful Christmas break and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Coonect 2 - The People's £50million

2007-12-19T05:13:00.000-08:00

Well done and thanks to everyone for voting in this competition to decide on how £50million Lottery cash will be spent. The winning project was Sustrans Connect2, part of which will improve the Hastings - Bexhill cycle link and which was reported on in an earlier post.

Connect2 answers the growing call for new ways of getting around. It will be a blueprint for reconnecting people to the places they want to go in a more environmentally-friendly way, transforming communities into places that people can take pride in.

The project will make travel healthier, safer and more enjoyable for everyone. It will show how to develop sustainable local travel. The local environment will also benefit from attractive landscaping, seating and public art, to reflect the spirit and identity of the local community.

Hastings Trust Festive Bash

2007-12-11T05:35:00.000-08:00

Please come along and join us to celebrate the festive season with wine and nibbles at the Resource Centre, 35 Robertson Street on Thursday 20th December from 12 noon to 3pm

Budding Local Photographers To Hold Postcard Exhibition for the Sara Lee Trust

2007-12-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

A group of 20 local photography enthusiasts will be displaying their favourite images from in and around Hastings at a forthcoming postcard exhibition to be held at The Creative Media Centre.

The official opening of the exhibition takes place on Thursday 13 December from 7-9pm and the exhibition runs until Thursday 20 December.

More information / press release can be found at: http://www.channelhastings.com/press-releases/

Connect2 - People Places Pride

2007-12-01T02:38:00.000-08:00

Completing the Hastings - Bexhill Coastal Connection needs your support.

The scheme is part of the Connect2 project which is competing for a £50million grant from the Big Lottery Fund's 'The People's £50 Million Contest'. This is one of four projects competing for the grant. The winning project will be decided by a television vote held over the weekend of 7 - 10 December. You can also vote online at www.thepeoples50million.org.uk Online voting is open NOW.

Each of the four projects will be featured in ITV programmes in the week commencing 3rd December. Connect2 will feature on Tuesday 4th December.

Connect2 is a national project made up of 79 individual schemes, of which the Hastings - Bexhill Coastal Connection is one. The project aims to improve walking and cycling facilities in local communities across the UK. The Hastings - Bexhill Coastal Connection will become part of the National Cycle Network which runs along the south coast of England.

Without the Big Lottery Fund's money it is unlikely that that Connect2 project can be completed - therefore your vote counts. So make the connection, and cast your vote.

The scheme is supported by East Sussex County Council, Hastings Borough Council, Rother District Council and Sustrans. Hastings Urban Bikes is also a key supporter of the scheme and is working with local people to increase involvement and raise awareness.

More information about the scheme can be found at www.sustransconnect2.org.uk

Think Pink 2007 at Hastings Arts Forum

2007-12-01T02:22:00.000-08:00

Now in it's second year, the Arts Forum's hugely successful exhibition of contemporary art by some of the UK's leading gay artists returns to the town. Running until the 6th December the 2007 exhibition features unique art by Pierre Anstis, Andy Bell, Leigh Bowery, Nigel Grimmer, Andrew Logan, Wayne Moraghan, Damien Morrison, Tim Perkins, Shimuzu Matt Smith, Christopher Winter, Andrew Woodyatt, Donald Urquhart and Mauricio Vincenzi.

The event is sponsored by Trade nightclubs and the Terence Higgins Trust and can be viewed at The Arts Forum, 36 Marina, St Leonards on Sea. Telephone 01424 201636 for more information or go to www.theartsforum.co.uk

As last year, a donation from the proceeds will be made to the Terence Higgins Trust. Please get involved and support the event and the valuable work of the Forum.

The celebration event is to be held this evening (1st December), World Aids Day, starting at 7.00pm and if last year's event is anything to go by, this year's will be a most inspirational and exciting affair. I hope to see you there.

Congratulations to all involved in putting together a fabulous show, and lots of love to you all.

Hastings Trust awards Michael Foster MP

2007-11-28T12:04:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday evening I had the honour of presenting Michael Jabez Foster MP with an award for commitment to the local community on behalf of the Development Trusts Association. On only my seventh day in post as the new chief officer at the Trust I felt privileged, but somewhat over-awed, by the occasion. Michael had been nominated for the award by the outgoing Executive Director, Christine Goldschmidt, commending Michael as a key supporter of the work of the Trust and saying that he deserves 'a pat on the back and big hug' for his tireless support of the communities within Hastings and St Leonards. We totally agree with Christine. Michael also took the time to give a private tour of the Houses to myself, my colleague David Jeapes (Skills2Build Manager) and DTA Board member Carolyn Lambert.

Hastings Pier - please note that the structural appraisal report of Hastings Pier is available to view or download from the Hastings Borough Council website www.hastings.gov.uk although be aware of large file download sizes. The report can also be provided on CD-ROM by the Council . Contact the Projects Team on 01424 451672

Watch this space for news about developments at the Trust and how to get involved in our work.