Deerfold circle dancers took to the open air recently to help raise money for charities supported under the National Gardens Scheme.

Members of our newest group at the centre joined dancers from neighbouring groups to tread the lawns of Bexhill circle dancer David and his wife Madeleine. Despite dark skies and sudden showers, the Bexhill trail of six open gardens raised £1700 for Macmillan Cancer Support and Family Support Work, whose volunteers provided the refreshments much welcomed by intrepid trail blaizers and dancers celebrating a dry sky for their demonstration.

Little Common and Bexhill community circle dance groups have been running for ten years. The Eastbourne group started this year, meeting on Thursday mornings, 11am to noon. Short and simple dances to ancient, modern, and classical music from all over the world are led by Pauline and Julie. The session is a way to build health and well-being while enjoying the company of others and a cuppa afterwards. See pictures from the open gardens demonstration by clicking on the website events gallery. Contact us via the website or ring Pauline on 07947 213594.

It’s going to be Open House at the Deerfold Centre on Saturday 1st June, as trustees work with local experts to prepare for a special summer celebration.

Over the winter months, the  Deerfold Trust will be putting the finishing touches to its recently refurbished centre with an emphasis on its outside meeting space, thanks to Langney Men’s Shed.

The group’s members, under the guidance of coordinator Andy Fisher, have been making and fitting special features to display carefully selected plants suitable for a seaside space which survives wintry blasts, sudden deluges and sometimes summer drought.  

Our own plant specialist Christine Mason is guiding green choices and advising on plant care, and will be talking to open day visitors and hosting a popular Gardeners’ Question Time.

Visitors to the centre at 233 Seaside, will also have a chance  to see beautiful craft pieces made by Men’s Shed members,  who will be there to chat about their own welcoming community and projects.

The Men’s Shed organisation originated in Australia, and has spread worldwide. For those who may find themselves isolated after retirement, redundancy, bereavement or other life challenges, the organisation offers a place to meet in a creative and caring environment, while sharing or learning new skills.  They make a great cup of tea, too.

Watch this space for more Deerfold Open Day updates.  Refreshments will also be available at the centre with craft, plant  and book stalls.

• Open Day
• Refreshments, stalls.
• Men’s Shed craft exhibition
• Gardeners’  Question time