A Crawley man who was jailed for burglary is wanted on recall to prison.

Police said Jordan Lee Bellamy is being sought by officers after his licence for early release from prison was revoked.

The 24-year-old was sentenced in October 2017 to 20 months in jail after being convicted of burgling a home.

He was released from HM Prison, in Lewes, on July 23 however, police said his licence was revoked on August 14 after he breached strict conditions.

Anyone seeing Bellamy or with any information is asked to report it online or by phoning 101, quoting serial 455 of 14/08.

The hard work and extra studying has paid off for youngsters at Ardingly College after picking up the best set of GCSE grades in the school’s history.

Nearly three quarters of the students achieved grades between 9-7 (A*-A) a big leap on last year’s total which was around 66 per cent.
According to the school of the 109 people to take the exams more than 500 grade 9s were achieved with all girls at the school picking up at least one A*.

There was also a growth in grades between 9 and 6 (A*-B) and more youngsters passing with grades between 9 and 4 (A*-C).

Ardingly College Headmaster Ben Figgis said: “Across the country this year group has had to adjust to new GCSE courses and exams, and had to prepare for their exams without the usual number of past papers to help them. In this context the grades achieved by Ardingly pupils are astonishing.

“The new top grade of 9 was introduced to reward the very top performers, so for our GCSE cohort of 109 to achieve over 500 grade 9s is a sign of real academic distinction.”

Students at Chailey School have celebrated another year of ‘fabulous’ GCSE results.

Around 25 percent of pupils at the school achieved at least 5 grades between 9 and 7 (A*-A) with 82 per cent of pupils passing with grades between 9 and 4 (C+).

More than 30 per cent of all grades were between 9 and 7 and 14 subjects saw a total of 80 per cent of pupils pass with at least a grade 4.

All students who sat Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Greek and Drama passed with at least a grade 4 while 90 per cent of youngsters at the school achieved at least a grade 4 in English Language and Resistant Materials.

The school said 74 per cent of students achieved at least a grade 4 in at least two sciences and 45 per cent of students achieved the full English Baccalaureate (at least a grade 4 in English, maths, two sciences, a language and geography or history). Meanwhile 70 per cent of all students achieved a good pass in at least one Foreign Language.

A spokesman for the school said: “There were a huge array of stunning individual performances and there is simply not space to mention them all.

“In total, Chailey School students secured 78 grade 9 passes. A number of individuals achieved remarkable results with one student achieving 10 grade 9s, a grade 8 as well as an A* with distinction in Further Maths. A number of other students achieved a least 7 grade 9s.

“The school wishes to congratulate all of the students for their fabulous examination grades. These are the result of the hard work and positive attitude of the students, and their help and care for each other, as well as the support and dedication of staff and parents.

“Chailey School wishes all students the absolute best as they confidently go about finding their places in higher and further education, and in the world.”

Students at Burgess Hill Girls are celebrating their GCSE results today.

More than half of students at the school in Keymer Road achieved 9/8 or A* and 74 per cent of students achieved 9-7, the equivalent of A*/A, a ten per cent increase on last year.

Sixty-two per cent gained at least seven or more grades 9-7, the equivalent of A*/A.

Amid concerns over the marking and grading of the new, 'harder' exams, the school said it 'continues to perform at the highest level'.

Liz Laybourn, headteacher, said: “We believe in challenging each individual to be ambitious and achieve the highest grades of which they are capable.

"Teachers work hard, going above and beyond, to ensure that girls meet these high standards and reach their full potential.

"Yet again, this year’s results prove that the Burgess Hill Girls experience adds significant value to each and every girl.

"Not only have they achieved superb grades across a wide range of subjects, the girls have also taken full advantage of the amazing opportunities that the school provides on the sporting, creative and enterprise fronts.”

Across all STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) 79 per cent of all entries were graded 9-7, the equivalent of A*/A, a nine per cent on last year.

A spokesman for the school added: "The 100 per cent grades 9/8, the equivalent of A*, in computer science challenge the widely held perception that the subject is ‘too hard’ and is more popular with boys than girls.

"In an all-girls environment subjects are free from gender stereotyping. Computer science is an increasingly popular subject at Burgess Hill Girls.

"Burgess Hill Girls achieved highly across a wide range of subjects. Ninety-two per cent of entries in creative subjects were graded 9-7, the equivalent of A*/A, and in the new tougher English language GCSE assessed solely by examination 71 per cent gained grades 9-7.

"Burgess Hill Girls achieve on average one GCSE grade higher than their baseline indicator demonstrating the value the school adds to each individual pupil."

READ MORE: Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve

Chailey School celebrates ‘fabulous’ GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

Downlands Community School in Hassocks is celebrating another set of 'outstanding' GCSE results.

Mark Wignall, headteacher at the school in Dale Avenue, has congratulated students on 'achieving such incredible outcomes'.

He said: "I would like to pay tribute to our amazing teaching staff for their exceptional professionalism and commitment during a time of unprecedented change in education.

"We are also very grateful to our extremely supportive governors and parents without whom we could not deliver such great outcomes.”

Seventy-nine per cent of students achieved a standard pass (grade 4) or better in English and maths.

Twenty-nine of passes were at grade 7 and above.

Eighty-three per cent of grades were grade 4 and above.

Notable achievements were Sophie Payne, who achieved ten grade 9 results; Will Horne, who achieved nine grade 9 results; Miles Alfrey, who achieved five grade 9 results; Miriam Hoefnagels, who achieved four grade 9 results; Ben Egan, who achieved seven grade 9 results; Aaron Goff, who achieved seven grade 9 results; Lydia Ives, who achieved seven grade 9 results; Nick Kitchen, who achieved seven grade 9 results; and Monica Yell, who achieved four grade 9 results.

A spokesman for the school added: "Congratulations to our students, we wish them well as they move into the next phase of their education or training."

READ MORE: Burgess Hill Girls 'continues to perform at the highest level' with impressive GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

Chailey School celebrates ‘fabulous’ GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

A call for new sites for soft sand extraction in West Sussex has been launched.

A joint minerals local plan (JMLP) put together by West Sussex County Council and the South Downs National Park Authority was formally adopted in early August.

The only site previously allocated for soft sand extraction was land at Ham Farm, north of the A283 near Steyning, but this sparked widespread opposition in the town due to road safety and landscape concerns.

During the JLMP’s preparation the soft sand strategy was removed and is now due to be developed separately after the planning inspector raised concerns about the approach taken.

The county council has now started owrk on the single-issue soft stand review.

As part of this work it has launched a call for sites, which starts tomorrow (Friday August 24) and runs until Friday September 14.

According to the county council this will ‘enable landowners, mineral operators, and any other interested parties to promote potential soft sand extraction sites’.

The authority says potential soft sand sites that were previously considered during the production of the joint minerals local plan must be reconsidered.

At the end of the call for sites period, officers will undertake a robust assessment of each site and decide whether they should be ruled out or shortlisted, and if required to meet the identified need, go forward to the next stage of the plan-making process.

Information on the site assessment methodology and all sites under consideration will be published as part of the informal public engagement on the review that will take place from January to March 2019.

Oathall students are celebrating their excellent GCSE results, with impressive achievements across all areas of the curriculum.

In English, 75 per cent of students achieved a grade 4 or above whilst in mathematics 77 per cent of students achieved a grade 4 or higher. In science, 74 per cent of students achieved two good science GCSE passes.

There were some exceptional individual performances with 10 per cent of the cohort achieving seven or more passes at grades 7, 8 or 9. This is all the more noteworthy given the recent reforms to the GCSE curriculum and the significantly more challenging examinations. Moreover, 22 per cent of all grades awarded were 7 or higher.

Headteacher Edward Rodriguez said: “I would like to congratulate all students and staff on their hard work and commitment. They have responded so well to the challenges of the newly reformed GCSEs. These exceptional results are a testament to their enthusiasm and perseverance.”

For more GCSE results from around West Sussex, visit our GCSE live blog round-up

Downlands Community School in Hassocks celebrates another set of ‘outstanding’ GCSE results

Quiz: Can you pass this science GCSE exam?

The Southern Hair and Beauty Awards aim to recognise, reward and celebrate the talent within the hair and beauty sector in Portsmouth and across Sussex.

We are looking for nominations from a diverse cross section of the hair and beauty industry, celebrating those who have just started out in the business right through to those who have dedicated their lives to the sector.

These awards started two years ago when The News Hair and Beauty and the ETC Hair and Beauty Awards joined forces, making the Southern Hair and Beauty Awards the largest hair and beauty awards of its kind along the South East coast.

This is a chance for stylists and beauticians to raise their profile across the three counties, with entries coming from Portsmouth in the west to Eastbourne in the east and up to Crawley.

Once all the nominations are in – the deadline is Saturday, October 6, 2018 – those nominated and shortlisted will be invited to a fabulous awards ceremony held at Fontwell Park Racecourse in Arundel on Saturday, November 17.

No matter what level you are or how large or small your business, there is a category for you. We wish you the best of luck!

The categories

Junior Stylist of the Year – this award will recognise a salon junior who has excelled through hard work and passion, with two to four years salon experience.

Colour Technician of the Year – the winner will be someone who has proved to be an outstanding colour technician who has a minimum of two years salon experience.

Gents’ Hairdresser/Barber of the Year – we are looking for someone with a minimum of two years experience who has true vision, ambition, and the willingness to succeed in the world of male grooming.

Hair Stylist of the Year – the winner will have a minimum of two years experience and will be someone who is an imaginative and creative stylist of female heads of hair.

Hair Styling Specialist of the Year – this is open to any hairdresser who demonstrates a high level in the art of hairdressing.

Hair Salon of the Year – Sponsored by The Good Salon Guide – this award recognises businesses which have been trading for more than 18 months and can demonstrate the importance of continued client growth, retention and innovation.

Beauty Therapist of the Year – we want to celebrate the work of an individual who goes over and above normal standards within the field of beauty.

Nail Technician of the Year – the winner will be someone with solid training and product knowledge.

Beauty Salon of the Year – Sponsored by The Permanent Makeup Training Academy – the winning salon will be a business which has been trading for more than 18 months and can demonstrate the importance of continued client growth, retention and innovation.

Training Centre of Excellence Award – this is open to colleges, salons, and individuals who train the future stars within the industry.

Apprentice of the Year – this is open to any apprentice/trainee with less than two years experience who has gone that extra mile and exceeded the expectations of their trainer.

Lifetime Achievement – the award winner is chosen by the judges, although any suggestions will be considered from nominations for this category.

For more information and to nominate someone for an award, visit www.southernhairandbeautyawards.co.uk

Here are the winners from the JP South Hair and Beauty Awards 2017

Students at Warden Park Secondary Academy in Cuckfield achieved 'fantastic' GCSE results despite the more challenging examinations.

The proportion of students who achieved both English and maths at grade 9-4 is a 'headline measure' for schools nationally, the school said.

And the school's performance has improved to 79 per cent, from what was an already impressive 76 per cent last year.

Dom Kenrick, headteacher, said: “I am delighted that our Year 11 students have achieved such an outstanding set of results and it is a fitting reward for the determination to succeed academically that they have shown throughout their time at Warden Park.

"In an environment of increasingly challenging GCSE examinations our students have shown the growth mindset and grit to not only believe that they can be successful but to actually achieve it.

"I have been particularly impressed by the achievement of our students right across the ability range.

"For some students achieving grades 9 or 8 was the challenge whilst for others it was to achieve grades 4 or 3.

"Success today will look different for each and every student and the enormous pride I feel for my students’ achievements is not dependent on the grade achieved but on the work put in and the progress made that will allow them to move on to the next phase of their education.

"I would also like to express my thanks to my staff team for their dedication in ensuring that at Warden Park we achieve the best from all”.

A spokesman for the school added: "This exceptional set of GCSE results is a real testimony to the dedication and hard work of our students and our staff in achieving the Best from All.

"In English, 90 per cent of students achieved a grade 9-4 whilst in maths the figure was 82 per cent.

"We are equally delighted that the proportion of students achieving the very top grades of 9-7 was 36 per cent in English and 29 per cent in maths.

"Across all subjects a fantastic 30 per cent of the grades achieved by students were the very top 9-7 grades.

"In science, 74 per cent of all students achieved two science GCSEs at grades 9-4 whilst 80 per cent of those taking three science exams (biology, chemistry and physics) achieved a grade 9-4.

"Modern foreign languages had 79 per cent of students achieve a grade 9-4 whilst in humanities (geography or history) the figure was 81 per cent.

"Students’ achievements in the expressive arts (art and design, dance and music) was equally impressive with 88 per cent, 100 per cent and 78 per cent achieving grades 9-4 respectively.

"At Warden Park we offer a very wide range of subjects and in 22 of these subjects over 80 per cent of students achieved grades 9-4 which is a tremendous testimony to the strength of teaching across the curriculum and of students’ hard work here at Warden Park."

READ MORE: 'Star' Burgess Hill Girls student achieves grade 9 results in nine GCSE subjects

Burgess Hill Girls 'continues to perform at the highest level' with impressive GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

'Star' Burgess Hill Girls student Selina Wang achieved grade 9 results in nine GCSE subjects

Her amazing achievement comes as a study published by Cambridge Assessment in May, predicated that only 200 'star pupils' in the country would get straight grade 9s, the school said.

Headteacher Liz Laybourn said: "We believe in challenging each individual to be ambitious and achieve the highest grades of which they are capable.

"Teachers work hard, going above and beyond, to ensure that girls meet these high standards and reach their full potential.

"Yet again, this year’s results prove that the Burgess Hill Girls experience adds significant value to each and every girl.

"Not only have they achieved superb grades across a wide range of subjects, the girls have also taken full advantage of the amazing opportunities that the school provides on the sporting, creative and enterprise fronts.”

A further eight students achieved 100 per cent grades 9-7 (A*/A): Isabelle Flower, Olivia Gunn, Olivia Player, Charlotte Hinton, Niamh McNeill, Emma Naunton, Cathy Tong and Rose Wainner.

READ MORE: Burgess Hill Girls 'continues to perform at the highest level' with impressive GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

Chailey School celebrates ‘fabulous’ GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

An autistic Hassocks student who was told he would never take exams is celebrating GCSE success.

Nat Dudman, 15, a student at specialist school LVS Hassocks, achieved a B and two 4’s – equivalent to C’s – in his GCSE results.

He now plans to return to the school in London Road, Sayers Common, for another year to study for more exams before going to Northbrook College to study aviation engineering.

His mother Lynda Sayers said: “I am extremely pleased with his results and he is happy too, considering when he was in main stream school they said that he would never be able to take any exams!

“It just goes to show that when the teachers and school believe in someone they can achieve great things.

“I would like to say a very big thank you to all at LVS for believing in my son, I am so very proud of him.”

Nat achieved a B in ICT and 4’s in maths and English language.

His results ‘demonstrate the development possible at the school which prepares students for independent futures’, the school said.

He was one of a group of seven students to celebrate their GCSE results today, with 82 per cent of the exam papers graded A*-E or equivalent, and 47 per cent of them graded A*-C or equivalent across ICT, maths, English language, art and statistics.

Sarah Sherwood, interim head of school, said: “I am delighted that our results today will help our students to continue to grow academically and set them up for further education and the chance to lead independent lives in future.

“Nat Dudman is a great example of a student struggling in a mainstream school whose prospects can be transformed with the right specialist education.

“We look forward to helping many more students with autism to achieve their academic potential in future.”

A spokesman for the school added: “LVS Hassocks’ approach of individual calming strategies and a wide range of therapist support available on site has paid dividends as the school’s results have helped students achieve places in mainstream education for September.

“These include Martin Pullen who received an excellent 6 (equivalent of a B) in his fine art GCSE and will now go on to study art at East Surrey College.

“Giving students with autism the confidence to sit exams can be a challenge, with many suffering from high anxiety and exams being a stressful time for any student, making the results even more noteworthy.

“Those students who stay on at LVS Hassocks to gain the qualifications and social skills they need to live independent lives in future will be able to choose from a variety of exam options as well as additional GCSEs, including a range of A-Levels and BTECs to ensure they can study the most suitable education for them.”

READ MORE: Warden Park students achieve ‘fantastic’ GCSE results

‘Star’ Burgess Hill Girls student achieves grade 9 results in nine GCSE subjects

Downlands Community School in Hassocks celebrates another set of ‘outstanding’ GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

Jon Francies said the impressive results were down to 'students being well prepared'.

He told the Middy: "I am really proud of them. They did fantastically well. Eighty-four per cent of students passed maths and 83 per cent passed English. Eighty per cent got both.

"It is our best results ever. We have done really well over the last couple of years but this is our best yet.

"This is because the students were well prepared and they put the effort in - they have got what they deserve. Well done to all students and staff for their hard work."

It was a straight set of As for student Elle Lippett. She achieved an 8 in geography, the equivalent of an A*, 99 in science, a 'super A*' and 7's in all other subjects.

She said: "I am so happy, I put hours and hours into revising and it is so nice to know that the effort wasn't wasted. A lot of us are going out tonight to celebrate."

Elle is off to Varndean College next month to do A-Levels in geography, biology and photography. Her dream job would be something in photography, which she calls her 'passion'.

Proud mum Amanda said: "I am so proud of Elle and all of the students today. I know how much pressure they were up against.

"The school has been amazing. It couldn't have done anymore to support them.

"I came here and so did my husband. We have never ever had a problem with this school."

Josh Corbett was the highest achiever out of the boys at the school. He achieved nine A's and A*s.

He said: "I am so pleased, I wasn't expecting the results at all, I am speechless."

John is off to St Paul's Catholic College next month to do A-Levels in maths, business and economics.

Another high achiever was Lauren Wickens. She achieved eight A's and A*'s.

She said: "It feels amazing. I feel like the hard work has paid off, I did so much work."

Lauren is also off to St Paul's Catholic College next month to do A-Levels in biology, business and law.

Other high achievers at the school this year were Ivy Whaley, who achieved nine A's and A*'s; Jessica Newman, who achieved eight A's and A*'s; Sam Philimore, who achieved eight A's and A*'s; Jessica Newman, who achieved eight A's and A*'s; Lucie Jones, who achieved eight A's and A*'s; Ella Russell, who achieved seven A's and A*'s; Miranda Pierpoint, who achieved six A's and A*'s; and Harry Chatfield, who achieved six A's and A*'s

Many students also made amazing progress across eight subjects, the school said.

These were Amy Watson , Samjida Motin, Louise Wright, Anya Arogyaswamy and Naeem Abu- Naeem.

There were also some 'outstanding' pass rates in other subjects. Ninety-three per cent passed business, 100 per cent PE, 78 per cent history, 87 per cent geography, 75 per cent double science, 91 per cent performing arts, 84 per cent photography and 84 per cent Spanish.

Adam Smith, assistant principal, added: "It is out best ever results, I am incredibly pleased. I am overwhelmed to be honest.

"So many have put in so much effort, I am very proud. They are just a wonderful group of kids."

READ MORE: Autistic Hassocks student told he never would take exams celebrates GCSE success

'Star' Burgess Hill Girls student achieves grade 9 results in nine GCSE subjects

Warden Park students achieve 'fantastic' GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

Downlands Community School in Hassocks celebrates another set of 'outstanding' GCSE results

Burgess Hill Girls 'continues to perform at the highest level' with impressive GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

Students celebrating GCSE results at Oathall Community College in Lindfield

Lucy Barnard is among the highest performers in the country.

Speaking to the Middy today, she said she was 'ecstatic'.

She added: "It has been so stressful and it is so nice to see the hard work has paid off and to see everyone so happy."

Lucy is off to BHASVIC college in Brighton next month to do A-Levels in history, English literature and maths.

Standing beside her at the school today was Sam Acosta-Fernandez. He achieved an impressive eight grade 9s, three 8s, and an A* in Spanish.

He told the Middy: "I am so happy, it couldn't have gone better if I am honest."

Proud mum Margarita praised the school for supporting students through 'so many exams'. "I am so happy and proud of Sam," she added.

"And I am so happy it is over for him. It was very challenging."

Eighty-three per cent of students at the school in Jane Murray Way achieved a grade 4 or above and 56 per cent achieved a grade 5 or above in English and maths.

Rob Carter, headteacher, said: “We are so proud of all the students and the hard work and dedication they have put in.

"To get these results in the new more challenging curriculum is down to their hard work, inspirational teaching and supportive families.

"We look forward to them flourishing in the next chapter.”

Other top performers at the school were Sophie Atherton-Barnes, who achieved nine grade 9s, two grade 8s and one A* grade and Ciara Howard, who achieved nine grade 9s and two grade 8s.

The school said these grades were 'particularly impressive' in that the new curriculum looked to 'stretch top performance' and only the top three per cent nationally were awarded grade 9s.

Phil Byrne, director of key stage 4 achievement, added: “I am thrilled to share in these with the results with the students today.

"We look forward to welcoming them and our new students back to study in the sixth form on September 4.”

Some 'exceptional' results also came from students below, who achieved grades, which were the equivalent of A* and A.

Jessica Allison
Isabel Bergin
Maria Bilton
Rosie Botting
Liam Brown
Jordan Cargill
Logan Crow
Conor Crozier
Evie Flynn
Bill Gankerseer
Felix Grant
James Hole
Sebastien Hope
Austin Kingsley
Benedek Kovacs
Edward McHarg
Daniel Maye
Fran Parr
Amelia Partridge
Daisy Ricci
Kai Robinson
Wiktoria Rudzinksa
Jenny Sage
Katie Sage
Grazia Smuraglia
Jemma Taggart

READ MORE: Principal at Burgess Hill Academy 'proud' as school achieves 'best ever' GCSE results

Autistic Hassocks student told he never would take exams celebrates GCSE success

'Star' Burgess Hill Girls student achieves grade 9 results in nine GCSE subjects

Warden Park students achieve 'fantastic' GCSE results

GCSE results for West Sussex – our live round-up

Downlands Community School in Hassocks celebrates another set of 'outstanding' GCSE results

Burgess Hill Girls 'continues to perform at the highest level' with impressive GCSE results

Record breaking Ardingly College students achieve ‘astonishing’ GCSE results

Students celebrating GCSE results at Oathall Community College in Lindfield

The first ever Vélo South takes place on September 23 and will see 15,000 cyclists will pedal their way through the county.

Participants will wind 100 miles through the West Sussex countryside, passing Chichester and Horsham, as well as the magnificent rolling hills that are the South Downs National Park.

With around 1,700 metres of climbing, the route is challenging but very rewarding. With highlights including the start and finish lines at Goodwood Motor Circuit, panoramic views of Harting Down and the spectacular Lordington Lavender.

Can I still take part?

General entries may have sold out in just a few days, but there are reserved places for West Sussex residents to take part. All abilities are welcome. Email hello@velosouth.com if you’d like to join 15,000 riders on the start line.

Volunteer:

An event of this scale wouldn’t be possible without an army of amazing volunteers. Over 250 West Sussex residents have already signed up and are set to help contribute to the success of this major event. If you’d like the join them, please email volunteer@velosouth.com

Saturday’s event registration:

Participants will register at the Westgate Leisure Centre in Chichester during the day on Saturday, September 22. This will create additional traffic in and around Chichester, so please adjust your plans accordingly.

Car parking on event day:

Parking will need to be suspended along the Vélo South route on the day. Keep an eye out for traffic enforcement notices which will go out two weeks before the event and find an alternative parking location for your vehicle.

Any vehicle left on the route or parked in a suspended parking bay may be removed from the route.

Local access plans:

A number of local access plans have been developed to increase the access options available to local communities throughout the day.

These can be viewed within the road closure section of the event website. Please head to www.velosouth.com to find out more.

Pedestrians and non-participating cyclists:

Access to walkers and cyclists is not restricted during the event, but members of the public are urged to listen to marshals, take extra care and remain vigilant. You can cross the route on foot and by bicycle, taking the same level of care as you would when crossing a road with motor vehicles on. Cases where non-participating cyclists wish to travel along part of the route, they should travel in the same direction as the cyclists for safety. Unregistered cyclists cannot join the event at any stage along the route.

Emergency services:

All emergency services have been involved in the planning of this event from the beginning. Emergency access will be facilitated at all times throughout the road closures and will always be prioritised during the event. Members of the public should follow normal protocol if they need to report an emergency.

On call doctors, emergency vets and district nurses:

If you are an on call doctor, emergency vet or district nurse that may be affected by the road closures, please get in touch with us on route@velosouth.com and we will be able to assist you.

Famous faces to look out for:

Here are just some of the celebrities saddling up to ride 100 miles at Vélo South:

- Martin Johnson CBE – England Rugby World Cup winning captain in 2003.

- Sally Gunnell OBE – Former Olympic gold medal winning hurdler. Riding for Age UK West Sussex.

- Mark Hunter MBE – Gold medal winning rower at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Road closures include:

A285, A283, parts of the A29, B2133, B2135, Maplehurst Road, Church Lane in Southwater, Plumtree Cross Lane Broadwater, A264, A281, B2133 through Loxwood and Plaistow, Highstead Lane Lurgashall, Fernhurst Road, Habin Hill and North Lane road from Rogate to South Harting, B2146, B2178

For more information, visit www.velosouth.com

Read more here:

Velo South where you can see the cyclists on the day

South Downs Riding for the Disabled Group has had to relocate due to redevelopment.

The group, which was founded in Upper Beeding in 1977, was sad to have had to leave Bridge House Equestrian Centre in Slinfold but it is pleased with its new home is at Horsham and Mid Sussex Equestrian Academy (HMSEA) in Albourne, near Burgess Hill, where three sessions are run on Wednesday mornings.

Jayne Simpson, public relations officer, said: “The group enjoyed five successful and happy years at Bridge House, during which time the owners, Liz and Chris McIlwraith, and the wonderful liveries who so kindly loaned their ponies to the group, were always incredibly supportive.

“However, HMSEA have extended a very warm welcome to the group and their riders and after the upheaval of the move, all are settling nicely into their new surroundings.

“They are now on their summer break but are all looking forward to getting back in the saddle on September 12 and are eager to encourage new volunteers and local organisations and companies to get involved.”

The group will have a stand at the Albourne Village Show on Saturday, 12pm to 4.30pm, and would be delighted to chat with anyone interested in the work of the group.

Treasurer Fiona Wright, who lives in Steyning, received the highest volunteer award in her field from the Princess Royal in 2015. She was presented with the RDA’s President’s Award for service of an exceptional nature over more than 30 years.

The group celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2017 and one of the highlights of the year was the selection of one of its riders, Amanda Worne from Yapton, to feature in the BBC television programme DIY SOS.

Amanda suffered an horrific cycling accident in August 2015 on Bury Hill and was left paralysed from the waist down, but has refused to let it get her down and has been an inspiration to many.

For more information about the group, visit www.southdownsrda.org or telephone Carolyn Heitman on 01403 711867.

DIY SOS to transform disabled mum Amanda’s Yapton home

Princess presents award to loyal volunteer

Officers received a call from a member of the public at 11.08pm yesterday to report a group of five men breaking into Ernest Jones in East Street, Chichester.

A member of the public followed the group but lost sight of them in Little London.

It is not known if anything was taken.

Detective sergeant Alison Hutchings said: “A couple of alert members of the public were able to quickly inform us about the break-in, allowing our officers to quickly attend the scene.

“The brave member of the public who followed the group was threatened by the men but luckily, was not harmed.

“The suspects were wearing balaclavas over their faces and we are appealing to anyone who may have seen the group fleeing the scene to get in contact with us immediately.”

If you witnessed the incident or have any information please report online or call 101 quoting reference 170 of 23/08.

Alternatively, you can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

READ MORE:

HM Courts Service: Results list for August 17 to 23, 2018

Sussex Police must respond to Crystal Palace fans over ‘knives and knuckledusters’ claims

Sussex Police could be in contempt of court if it fails to respond to Crystal Palace fans over why it claimed supporters had ‘knives and knuckledusters’ at a Brighton and Hove Albion game.

And the force says it ‘fully intends to comply’ with a notice which gives it 35 days to respond to fans – or face contempt of court.

In December 2017, Five Year Fanzine, a Crystal Palace fan site, launched Freedom of Information (FoI) requests asking why Sussex Police claimed Palace fans had brought weapons to a game at the Amex Stadium on November 28, 2017.

Related stories: Police apology after incorrect report of weapons at Brighton and Palace clash

Six arrests at Albion and Crystal Palace match

Sussex Police later admitted this claim was false and apologised, but did not explain why the statements were made.

At the time, police said: “The reference to weapons being found discarded at the stadium following the Brighton v Crystal Palace match on November 28 was based on information logged by our officers on the night and done so in good faith. Subsequently, it has been established that no such items were physically recovered at the stadium or in the city. We accept that this information was incorrect and the tweet published earlier today by one of our officers was wrong.

“Sussex Police apologises to both clubs and their supporters.”

The FoI requests from Palace fans sought to establish the number of arrests at the match relating to the possession of weapons, the number of weapons Sussex Police recovered at the stadium, how many weapons Brighton and Hove Albion recovered and reported to the police, and whether there was any communication about weapons discovered by the police or club at the match.

Now, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) said Sussex Police could be in contempt of court if it fails to respond to the Palace fans’ FoI request or offer a valid refusal notice.

The report from ICO was published on Wednesday (August 22), and said Sussex Police must respond in 35 days.

Sussex Police said: “FOI requests in relation to policing of the match were received in December last year. Sussex Police responded to these and in doing so explained that some of the information sought had already been placed in the public domain by Sussex Police in the form of press releases.

“An internal review by the force under the Act was then sought in relation to some information which we refused to supply under the Act. We regret there has been delay in completing this review.

“We fully intend to comply with the ICO Decision Notice by responding to the specific FOI applicant within the timescale required, with the outcome of that internal review. If the applicant is dissatisfied with the outcome it will be open to them to appeal to the ICO.”

Co-op has confirmed the closing date for its Haywards Heath store.

A spokesman told the Middy: “We confirm that our store on South Road, Haywards Heath will be closing to customers on Sunday, October 14.

“In a rapidly evolving market, unfortunately, from time to time, certain stores cease to be commercially sustainable for us.

“The decision to exit a site is never taken lightly and we always fully consider all options available to us.

“We remain committed to the Haywards Heath community with fundraising and support for local causes continuing from our petrol station at 104 Franklynn Road, Haywards Heath.

“This store offers a full range of products including a bakery and our Local Flavours range which supports local producers in the region.”

Post Office services are currently being offered at the convenience store.

The Post Office is now looking for a long-term replacement branch in the town.

It is welcoming any applications from potential retail partners interested in running a branch on its behalf.

Read our story here: Post Office looking for long-term replacement branch in Haywards Heath

A Burgess Hill business has joined a national group in a £2.6million deal.

Financial advice firm Harvey Curtis, based at Victoria Business Centre, in Victoria Road, has joined AFH Financial Group (AFH).

The group is one of the fastest-growing financial planning-led investment management companies in the UK.

Nigel Poole and David Clark set up Harvey Curtis in 2000, after each notching up around 15 years in financial services.

Nigel said: “With the departure of the banks, it’s become increasingly difficult to find young advisers, and with the ever-increasing regulation we felt we needed new blood to be able to continue to offer the best service to our clients.

“We met Alan and saw we had the same ethos of putting clients front and centre, so it made sense to join forces.

“Now our clients get the benefit of the incredible support the AFH back-office teams provide, and we can devote ourselves 100% to working with our clients to deliver what they want and need.”

AFH chief executive Alan Hudson added: “It’s great to welcome Nigel and David to the AFH family, sharing as they do our determination always to put customers first.

“Their joining adds to our capacity in the South East of England, where we see a lot of potential for growth.

“This deal shows AFH remains an attractive place for IFA companies of all sizes, whether they want to grow their business, serve their customers better or find a good home while they exit the industry.”

READ MORE: Closing date for Co-op in Haywards Heath confirmed

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Police are reminding residents across Sussex, especially the elderly, to remain vigilant about phone and online fraudsters who use Apple iTunes vouchers (and some vouchers provided by other companies) as a means to receive payment from victims.

The majority are frauds using the names of HMRC, PPI and online loans, though it has been seen as a payment method in romance and investment cases too.

Typically, a victim is contacted by telephone, threatened with legal action over an outstanding, non-existent debt and persuaded to purchase vouchers from a local store. The voucher numbers are provided to the fraudster over the phone as a means of payment.

Data from Action Fraud shows that nationally £6.5 million has been lost to this type of fraud during the three years to March 2018, with a significant proportion of the victims being over the age of 60.

An 80-year-old man in Sussex received a call on his mobile on Friday (August 17) from a man allegedly calling from HMRC telling him that there was an arrest warrant out for him due to unpaid taxes.

He explained that a way to make the arrest go away was to go pay them some money and then passed the phone to another man who told him to stay on the line and not let anyone know that he was on the phone to them.

The victim was asked to go to local stores and buy 10 £25 Apple Gift cards from one and £750 worth of Google Play gift cards from the other one. He went back home and passed the gift card codes over the phone for the suspect to use, thus losing £1,000.

During the conversation with the suspect the victim also inadvertently said that he had access to funds and was asked to attend a local bank to transfer £3,980 into an account. If this should fail then Western Union transfer could be done instead. Fortunately the bank realised that this was a fraud. They called police and prevented him from transferring the money.

PC Bernadette Lawrie, Sussex Police’s Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer, said: “We have recorded 47 attempts of this type in Sussex so far this year – 24 of them have been unsuccessful thanks to a combination of awareness by people who answered the calls, and intervention from vigilant bank and shop staff.

“Gift cards, including App Store and iTunes gift cards can only be used to purchase goods and services from the retailer named on the card. Never provide the numbers on the back of iTunes Gift Cards to someone you don’t know.

“Most of these frauds use iTunes but we had a recent example of a slightly different method using Amazon vouchers.

“Earlier in August, a 78-year-old widow was contacted on Facebook Messenger by someone who seemed to be a good friend she has known for over 30 years. He told her that he had successfully received a grant from ‘Federal Government Social’ and saw her name on the list of people eligible for the grant.

“He then encouraged her to talk to a woman on Facebook Messenger who confirmed that she was due a grant of $150,000 which she would get delivered to her door in cash via UPS upon them receiving £1,550 in Amazon vouchers.

“She went to a nearby store and asked for the voucher. The staff there questioned her purchase and dissuaded her from buying the vouchers. On returning home and talking to the woman online again she was convinced that she would receive the grant and should go back and get the vouchers. She returned to the store and this time successfully bought the vouchers, sending all the receipts and voucher codes to the woman.

“When speaking to her friend by phone later that day he told her that his Facebook had been hacked, it was not him talking to her and that she had been defrauded!

“No genuine organisation will ask you to pay taxes, bills or fees using iTunes Gift Cards, or any other type of voucher. If you’re contacted by anyone that asks you to do this, you’re very likely the target of a scam.

“Always question unsolicited requests for your personal or financial information in case it’s a scam. Even if someone knows your basic details, such as your name and address, it doesn’t mean they are genuine.

“Genuine banks or other trusted organisations won’t pressure you to make a financial transaction on the spot. If something feels wrong then it’s usually right to question it.

“If you or someone you know is vulnerable and receives a call of this nature, please report it to the police by calling 101 or online, quoting Operation Signature.”

You can find more advice about how to spot and then prevent this type of fraud on the Sussex Police website and the Action Fraud website.