Archive

  • Stadium safety claims questioned

    Brighton and Hove Albion has no independent evidence to back up claims Falmer is the only safe site for a 22,000 seat stadium, say opponents. Campaigners against the plan told a public inquiry into the scheme Falmer would need similar work to all the

  • Hollywood star hits town

    Actress Natascha McElhone swept into Brighton for a special advance screening of her new film Solaris. The seven-months pregnant star, 31, who plays George Clooney's love interest in the film, made her appearance at the UGC cinema at Brighton Marina last

  • Gooey breakfast sparks fire alert

    Two toddlers almost set fire to their house when they decided to make breakfast - by putting chocolate bars in the toaster. Three-year-old Declan Collins and his 22-month-old sister Chyna thought a toasted Milky Way and a Kit Kat would be more fun than

  • Police swoop on drugs 'cuckoos'

    Forty police swamped an estate today to cage "cuckoo" drug dealers who take over people's homes. Five crack houses were raided in Whitehawk, Brighton, and officers seized drugs and made a number of arrests. One woman was found to be was an illegal immigrant

  • Blame it on the people

    "Patients are continuing to cause major bed-blocking problems for hospitals." I find this statement strange as my mum assured me it was the pixies that were using patients' beds. -Sean Herlihy, Starling Close, Burgess Hill

  • The great peacemaker?

    "The United States and other nations are working on a road map for peace," President Bush said, promising one day Israel and a Palestinian state would live "side by side, in peace". Few would see George W Bush as the great peacemaker and I was amazed

  • Barred GP's plea fails

    A GP struck off for having one of the scruffiest and most disorganised surgeries in Britain showed himself to be "quite unfit" to practice as a doctor, Law Lords said today. Disgraced Dr Peter Sandon, 60, of Uplands Avenue, Worthing, was erased from the

  • Think Of It This Way, by John Parry

    Once upon a time, in a land we knew as England, there was trust in something called justice. There was widespread respect for the police and a belief that, in the eyes of the law, you were innocent until proved guilty. A little nave perhaps, a little

  • Coppell: March holds the key

    Albion boss Steve Coppell wants his troops to launch a March for safety at home specialists Gillingham tomorrow. The trip to the Priestfield Stadium kicks off a key month which Coppell believes could be the making of the Seagulls' fight for First Division

  • Verging on filthy

    As a regular commuter along the A27 between Brighton and Eastbourne, I am appalled and ashamed at the amount of litter I see on the verges and in the hedgerows. What visitors to our lovely county make of this I shudder to think. With the current hit film

  • Golf: Fenwick forced to cut costs

    Ryan Fenwick cannot afford to play the Challenge Tour any longer and will concentrate on the less costly Euro Pro Tour. Ryan, 25, attached to Bognor, reckons entry fees and all other expenses meant him shelling-out close on £700 a week last season. "It

  • Lend-lease?

    I hope Brighton and Hove City Council leader Ken Bodfish meant "lease" when he wrote the council was prepared to "donate" land for the Albion's proposed new stadium at Falmer (Letters, February 21). Otherwise, another bunch of get-rich-quick directors

  • Little voice

    How deeply I agree with the wish of the Albion to reach Falmer. Withdean residents have appreciated the club has respected our environment as far as it has been possible for the team operating in such a restricted area. As we consider the possibility

  • Hockey: Sussex umpire is on national stage

    David Colbourne has increased Sussex interest in the men's national league after being elected to the umpires panel. Colbourne passed his scrutiny test while umpiring a match at East Grinstead last month. He has no national league game this weekend but

  • Unluurved DJ

    You would think Southern FM would have known last time they tried to sack Ambrose Harcourt how popular his late-night love song programme is. But now the independent radio station has again told Ambrose, known as Dr Luurve, that his contract will not

  • Combined Counties: Withdean want points

    Withdean have been promised a quick decision over Tuesday's farcical clash with Merstham. The match at Woodside Road was abandoned 14 minutes from time when the Surrey side were reduced to six men. A combination of injuries and three sendings off meant

  • Dr Martens: Smart in running for Borough

    Promotion-chasing Eastbourne Borough welcome back Matt Smart for tomorrow's eastern division clash with King's Lynn at Priory Lane. Midfielder Smart was serving a one-game ban and missed last Saturday's 2-0 victory at Sittingbourne which keeps Borough

  • Price for prosperity

    There can be no doubting the importance of Gatwick to the economy of Sussex. It is the world's biggest airport with a single runway and is by far the biggest employer in the county. However, there is a price to be paid for the prosperity Gatwick creates

  • Honour bound

    I am sure there are many readers like myself who very much appreciate the articles on local history and local historical personalities Adam Trimingham contributes to The Argus. Adam has a tremendous store of local historical knowledge he shares with us

  • Ryman League: Rebels want repeat show

    Worthing boss Barry Lloyd thinks his side can emulate their Sussex Senior Cup victory against rivals Lewes tomorrow. The Woodside Road club won 2-0 at the Dripping Pan earlier in the season and Lloyd is hoping for a repeat performance in the league. He

  • Matthew Clark: Town hunt new boss

    County League Division Three side Uckfield Town are looking for a new manager. The club want someone with experience in Sussex football. Chairman Peter Walsh said: "We have a good squad of youngsters coming through and we want someone to take it on from

  • Coppell: March holds the key

    Albion boss Steve Coppell wants his troops to launch a March for safety at home specialists Gillingham tomorrow. The trip to the Priestfield Stadium kicks off a key month which Coppell believes could be the making of the Seagulls' fight for First Division

  • Racing: Amanda sets £1m target

    Amanda Perrett has set a double target for her Coombelands Stables this year. She said: "The aim is to exceed last year's total of 60 winners and to win a £1m in stake money. "If the luck had gone the other way in two or three Group One races in which

  • Bug outbreak at hospitals

    Hospital patients and staff in Brighton have been struck down by an infectious stomach bug. Two wards have been closed and about 20 patients are suffering from the condition, commonly known as winter vomiting disease. One ward at Brighton General Hospital

  • New row over runway

    The Government's newly-unveiled revealed proposals for runway expansion in the UK have already sparked a fierce debate around Gatwick. Those for the proposals say they make economic sense, those against say any runway expansion would spell ecological

  • Iraq war fears hit confidence

    Fears of an imminent war in Iraq has sent consumer confidence plummeting to its lowest level for five years. The confidence barometer, conducted by Martin Hamblin GfK, registered an overall drop by six points to minus nine for February with more than

  • Stadium plan safety questioned

    Brighton and Hove Albion has no independent evidence to back up claims Falmer is the only safe site for a 22,000 seat stadium, say opponents. Campaigners against the plan told a public inquiry into the scheme Falmer would need similar work to all the

  • New bed-blocking fines criticised

    A housing association has criticised controversial plans to introduce bed-blocking fines for social services departments. Sussex Housing and Care says government proposals will threaten the already depleted care available for elderly people in the county

  • Drink-driver let off hook

    Police have blamed poor mobile phone reception for a drink-driver escaping justice. The force said a call they received about the driver kept breaking up and they had insufficient information to nab the offender. Photographer Mark Dimmock alerted police

  • At the cinemas, February 28-March 6

    Here are cinema listings for the coming week. Just find the film you want and see where it's showing. ABOUT SCHMIDT (15) Chichester New Park. ADAPTATION (15) Brighton Odeon. ANALYZE THAT (15) Brighton Odeon, Brighton UGC, Eastbourne UGC, Hastings Odeon

  • Stadium plan safety questioned

    Brighton and Hove Albion has no independent evidence to back up claims Falmer is the only safe site for a 22,000 seat stadium, say opponents. Campaigners against the plan told a public inquiry into the scheme Falmer would need similar work to all the

  • Dollar star's TV comeback tour

    Eighties pop idol David Van Day hopes to resurrect his career by flying the flag for Britain in a reality TV show. Brighton-born David and singing partner Thereza Bazar will leave for America this weekend to film the new ITV1 show Reborn In The USA. They

  • On stage this week, Feb 28-March 6

    Asian stand-up, outrage from Mark Little, First World War drama and a riotous look at marriage - they're our picks of the week. LOVIN' A SORNA GORA, The Hawth, Hawth Avenue, Crawley, March 1 This mix of Asian stand-up, sitcom and sketches tells the tale

  • Clubs: Wild Fruit, Creation, Brighton, March 3

    DJ Dave Piccioni will be leading a house tribute to the spirit of Studio 54 - "star-studded temple of vice and disco hedonism". Dress to impress or, in their own words "think Liza, Warhol, Bianca and Rod, celebrity overload." 10pm to 3am. Admission is

  • Jazz: Wayne Shorter Quartet, Brighton Dome, March 6

    Few can dispute Wayne Shorter's status as one of the most important jazz musicians alive. It's now almost 50 years since he got his first big concert, playing saxophone with pianist Horace Silver. Since then he has established a CV that reads like a who's

  • Comedy: Mark Thomas, Brighton, February 28 & March 4

    Fans of Thomas will be able to enjoy a double whammy this week as the part-comedian part-agitator treats us to two performances. First he hosts a charity auction in aid of the Green Party at Grand Central, Surrey Street, on February 28. Then he will be

  • Hollywood star hits town

    Actress Natascha McElhone swept into Brighton for a special advance screening of her new film Solaris. The seven-months pregnant star, 31, who plays George Clooney's love interest in the film, made her appearance at the UGC cinema at Brighton Marina last

  • Gooey breakfast sparks fire alert

    Two toddlers almost set fire to their house when they decided to make breakfast - by putting chocolate bars in the toaster. Three-year-old Declan Collins and his 22-month-old sister Chyna thought a toasted Milky Way and a Kit Kat would be more fun than

  • Brighton's Britain's brainiest city

    A national internet quiz has ranked Brighton and Hove as the cleverest place in Britain. Residents answered 87% of questions correctly in the quiz run on Microsoft's MSN web site. The resort topped a league of 30 British towns and cities. Wolverhampton

  • Man in sex attack trial

    A man accused of a sex attack on a ten-year-old boy will appear at Lewes Crown Court on May 8 for trial. Anthony Valentine, 46, of Boltro Road, Haywards Heath, has denied kidnapping the boy in Bognor in July last year. He has also denied indecently assaulting

  • Unhappy with Auntie

    Am I the only person who is unhappy with the BBC? In the past, I could listen to Radio 2 and hear nice music and interesting conversations any time, unlike now. I have been paying for a radio licence since 1955 and television since 1958. Now I rarely

  • Think Of It This Way, by John Parry

    Once upon a time, in a land we knew as England, there was trust in something called justice. There was widespread respect for the police and a belief that, in the eyes of the law, you were innocent until proved guilty. A little nave perhaps, a little

  • Parents warned over truancy

    Almost half the children stopped during truancy sweeps in Sussex had no valid excuse for being absent, it emerged today. Out of 40 youngsters from East Sussex, caught outside lessons without a reason, 21 were girls while 26 were of secondary school age

  • Protest over waste site plan

    Mid Sussex villagers turned out in force last night to protest about plans for a landfill site. More than 200 people from around Haywards Heath packed the town's Clair Hall to voice opposition to the proposed tip at Freshfield Lane Brickworks, near Horsted

  • Government's pledge on Gatwick

    Minister Robin Cook has indicated the Government will stick to the agreement not to expand Gatwick airport before 2019. The Commons Leader said the High Court had been able to force the Government to consider building up to two new runways at the airport

  • Man hurt in boat blast

    A boat owner narrowly escaped death early today when his cabin cruiser exploded in flames at Shoreham Harbour. Tim Brooking, 65, from Worthing, was pinned under debris after a gas explosion ripped the cabin and deck off the Pathfinder. The grandfather

  • Coppell: March holds the key

    Albion boss Steve Coppell wants his troops to launch a March for safety at home specialists Gillingham tomorrow. The trip to the Priestfield Stadium kicks off a key month which Coppell believes could be the making of the Seagulls' fight for First Division

  • Verging on filthy

    As a regular commuter along the A27 between Brighton and Eastbourne, I am appalled and ashamed at the amount of litter I see on the verges and in the hedgerows. What visitors to our lovely county make of this I shudder to think. With the current hit film

  • Height of folly

    It seems Fiona J Thomas is absolutely ecstatic about the ghastly tower proposed for the Endeavour site (Letters, February 25). Not so many years ago, a few people were spouting her sentiments about the high-rise blocks that were planned - and eventually

  • Golf: Keith seeks new riches

    Keith Macdonald ended his 22-year association with Goodwood today to become a full time tournament player at the ripe old age of 52. Many over-50s think of retirement in other walks of life. But Macdonald, embarking on his third season on the European

  • Rugby: Heath bid for top spot

    Haywards Heath can go top of the league tomorrow, provided they defeat one of only two teams to beat them in London One this season. Heath, currently second, host third-placed Hertford at Whitemans Green, knowing the destiny of the title is in their own

  • Unluurved DJ

    You would think Southern FM would have known last time they tried to sack Ambrose Harcourt how popular his late-night love song programme is. But now the independent radio station has again told Ambrose, known as Dr Luurve, that his contract will not

  • Gats spats

    Members of the World Development Movement were criticised (The Argus, February 19) for the dangerous stunt attempted at Brighton's West Pier. They did it because they are so concerned about the General Agreement on Trade in Services (Gats), which may

  • Price for prosperity

    There can be no doubting the importance of Gatwick to the economy of Sussex. It is the world's biggest airport with a single runway and is by far the biggest employer in the county. However, there is a price to be paid for the prosperity Gatwick creates

  • Shopkeepers' 'guardian angel' scheme

    Shopkeepers have launched a scheme in which they act as guardian angels, offering protection to targets of street crime. Traders signed up to the £2,600 safe shops initiative in St James's Street, Kemp Town, Brighton, will advertise their stores as possible

  • New row over runway

    The Government's newly-unveiled revealed proposals for runway expansion in the UK have already sparked a fierce debate around Gatwick. Those for the proposals say they make economic sense, those against say any runway expansion would spell ecological

  • Hitman, 72, gets life

    A 72-year-old Hastings man was today jailed for life for the murder of a newsagent in 1976. Allan Savage confessed last year after seeing an emotional appeal from Geoffrey Small's daughter Cathy on the BBC's Crimewatch TV show, the Old Bailey heard. Savage

  • Thumbs down to regional assembly

    A council says it has proof there is little enthusiasm in West Sussex for Government proposals for regional government. West Sussex County Council says two public polls, conducted by MORI and ICM, and its own consultation with local people show residents

  • 24-hour moans hotline

    Residents will be able to complain about problems such as broken street lights or abandoned vehicles at any time of day or night through a new initiative. The scheme, called citydirect, will be launched on Tuesday as a new way to give people in Brighton

  • Help to feel valued

    Until the end of the last century, people thought those with learning disabilities should be kept out of sight and out of mind. Sometimes holed up in institutions on the outskirts of towns and cities, they had no reason to feel at home in a society where

  • Government's pledge on Gatwick

    Minister Robin Cook has indicated the Government will stick to the agreement not to expand Gatwick airport before 2019. The Commons Leader said the High Court had been able to force the Government to consider building up to two new runways at the airport

  • No charge over boat tragedy

    A man at the helm of a powerboat which crashed killing hi brother has been told he will not face prosecution. Ian Langan, 45, died after the boat his younger brother Cliff, 44, was driving speared into the side of his craft off Brighton Marina last August

  • Rush-hour protest planned

    Angry traders are to bring rush-hour traffic to a halt in their fifth "white van protest" against a parking policy. The centre of Brighton and Hove will come to a standstill during Tuesday morning's rush-hour as vans decked in protest banners with horns

  • New bed-blocking fines criticised

    A housing association has criticised controversial plans to introduce bed-blocking fines for social services departments. Sussex Housing and Care says government proposals will threaten the already depleted care available for elderly people in the county

  • Mr Bean boosts theatre group

    Mr Bean, comedian Rowan Atkinson's rubber-faced movie character, is helping to fund a theatre in Sussex. Amateur drama group the Hurstpierpoint Players hold an auction every two years to raise funds. Over the past few weeks the actors have amassed a collection

  • Around the world with Alan Partridge

    Sussex-based comic Steve Coogan is packing his case for his biggest role yet - as globetrotting adventurer Phileas Fogg. The comedian, who has lived in Hove for the past five years, will spend five months shooting the Hollywood production of Jules Verne's

  • Naughty vending machines prove a hit

    Vending machines offering edible underwear and sex aids have created good vibrations in bars and clubs around Brighton and Hove. The orange boxes have been springing up around the city in recent weeks, providing a welcome relief to anyone who forgot to

  • Gig guide, Feb 28-March 6

    There's an all-star Albion benefit, Tom McCrae's acoustic atmospherics, Watford's raging Mohair and rapper Aim to choose from. AVOID THE DROP, Hove Town Hall, February 28 Those noisy Brighton boys, Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster, headline a benefit

  • Stage: Chalk Garden, Theatre Royal, Brighton, March 3-8

    Written by high society eccentric and Rottingdean resident Enid Bagnold in the Fifties, this drama follows the fortunes of Mrs St Maugham. She cares for her troublesome granddaughter Laurel with the help of governess Miss Madrigal. Known in the village

  • Pop: Liberty X, Brighton Centre, March 6

    "I was disappointed when I didn't get through but I'm really glad I didn't now," says Jessica Taylor from Liberty X. She's talking about Popstars, the television phenomenon that had us glued to the set every Saturday night for weeks. Jessica made it into

  • Witch to stand for council

    Practising witch Marina Pepper is planning a spell as a local councillor. Unfortunately for the headline writers, she'll be no Blair Witch. She will be nailing her colours firmly to the Liberal Democrat mast as she plunges into Saltdean politics - where

  • Brighton's Britain's brainiest city

    A national internet quiz has ranked Brighton and Hove as the cleverest place in Britain. Residents answered 87% of questions correctly in the quiz run on Microsoft's MSN web site. The resort topped a league of 30 British towns and cities. Wolverhampton

  • A poem for peace

    The poem by Samantha More (Letters February 19) deserves a response: I sniff for war - More people, more people, All want more. Resources limited, water scarce in Palestine, More people saved by doctors, More born premature, alive though not well, More

  • Unhappy with Auntie

    Am I the only person who is unhappy with the BBC? In the past, I could listen to Radio 2 and hear nice music and interesting conversations any time, unlike now. I have been paying for a radio licence since 1955 and television since 1958. Now I rarely

  • Feedback, with Simon Bradshaw

    Our report of the Albion stadium public inquiry in some editions on Tuesday and Wednesday last week contained an error. It wrongly stated Lewes District Council owned the land for the proposed adjacent coach park. The council does not support the stadium

  • Hotel says no to asylum-seekers

    Managers of a seafront hotel near Brighton say it will never be used to house asylum seekers. Staff at the Grand Ocean Hotel in Saltdean said they had never been asked by the Home Office to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. They said

  • Toddler's nightmare journey

    A toddler missing for ten hours was found early today dangling over a stream - cold, wet and trapped in the roots of a tree. Police say it's "remarkable" that little Merlin Reid was unharmed after taking a mile-long walk through a slurry pit and bogs

  • Height of folly

    It seems Fiona J Thomas is absolutely ecstatic about the ghastly tower proposed for the Endeavour site (Letters, February 25). Not so many years ago, a few people were spouting her sentiments about the high-rise blocks that were planned - and eventually

  • Golf: Keith seeks new riches

    Keith Macdonald ended his 22-year association with Goodwood today to become a full time tournament player at the ripe old age of 52. Many over-50s think of retirement in other walks of life. But Macdonald, embarking on his third season on the European

  • Rugby: Heath bid for top spot

    Haywards Heath can go top of the league tomorrow, provided they defeat one of only two teams to beat them in London One this season. Heath, currently second, host third-placed Hertford at Whitemans Green, knowing the destiny of the title is in their own

  • Hockey: Round-Up

    Lewes visit second placed Nottingham in division two tomorrow, without Marnix Achterbergh and Matt Lloyd, who are both unavailable. Lewes skipper Will Champness said: "On paper it looks a tough one but they haven't had very good results since Christmas

  • Joy story

    I feel elated - Brighton and Hove City Council has made the right decision concerning the restoration of the West Pier and I look forward to seeing work start. Now let us have no more prevarication. Work must start immediately. I suggest the existing

  • Gats spats

    Members of the World Development Movement were criticised (The Argus, February 19) for the dangerous stunt attempted at Brighton's West Pier. They did it because they are so concerned about the General Agreement on Trade in Services (Gats), which may

  • Rush-hour folly

    Yet another parking protest is planned in Brighton and Hove by people who do not like the city council's policy on parking. They will block the centre of Brighton and Hove during the middle of the rush hour on Tuesday, causing misery to thousands of people

  • Grow our own

    I wanted to let The Argus know how good are the recent articles by Tim Parker covering the difficulties being experienced by our farmers and specialised food and drink producers in this country. We have been involved in farming since many years before

  • Ryman: Collins riddles for Maggs

    Horsham boss John Maggs has no idea whether Rob Collins will be playing for him in tomorrow's division one south clash with Epsom. The transfer-listed striker scoired a hat-trick in last saturday's 5-0 hammering at Croydon Athletic but then failed to

  • South Coast sprawl began as a contest

    It is a pity the description below the aerial photo of Peacehaven (The Argus Extra, February 19) was so incorrect. Local residents often ask us how Peacehaven came into existence so, without going into too much detail - it is a long and complex story

  • Matthew Clark: Merger is way forward

    John Pinyoun insists the merger between Eastbourne United and Shinewater Association could be the way forward for other clubs in Sussex. The two Eastbourne sides confirmed on Wednesday they would be playing under the same banner as Eastbourne United Association

  • Mice little earner for barn owls

    Barn owls are being offered bed and breakfast at a Sussex sewage works in return for a few hours' pest control a day. Southern Water has installed nest boxes at its wastewater works in Gossards Green, near Burgess Hill, in the hope the vulnerable birds

  • Parents warned over truancy

    Almost half the children stopped during truancy sweeps in Sussex had no valid excuse for being absent, it emerged today. Out of 40 youngsters from East Sussex, caught outside lessons without a reason, 21 were girls while 26 were of secondary school age

  • Shopkeepers' 'guardian angel' scheme

    Shopkeepers have launched a scheme in which they act as guardian angels, offering protection to targets of street crime. Traders signed up to the £2,600 safe shops initiative in St James's Street, Kemp Town, Brighton, will advertise their stores as possible

  • Hitman, 72, gets life

    A 72-year-old Hastings man was today jailed for life for the murder of a newsagent in 1976. Allan Savage confessed last year after seeing an emotional appeal from Geoffrey Small's daughter Cathy on the BBC's Crimewatch TV show, the Old Bailey heard. Savage

  • Business info gets new look

    A newsletter designed to provide businesses with local information has been given a new look. Business Today, formerly Horsham Business News, is being relaunched next week. Published free by Horsham District Council every six months, Business Today contains

  • L&G cuts bonus again

    Insurance group Legal & General yesterday cut bonus rates on endowment policies for the second time in five months after posting a seven per cent drop in operating profits. The group, which has offices in Hove, blamed falling stock markets for its

  • Thumbs down to regional assembly

    A council says it has proof there is little enthusiasm in West Sussex for Government proposals for regional government. West Sussex County Council says two public polls, conducted by MORI and ICM, and its own consultation with local people show residents

  • 24-hour moans hotline

    Residents will be able to complain about problems such as broken street lights or abandoned vehicles at any time of day or night through a new initiative. The scheme, called citydirect, will be launched on Tuesday as a new way to give people in Brighton

  • Help to feel valued

    Until the end of the last century, people thought those with learning disabilities should be kept out of sight and out of mind. Sometimes holed up in institutions on the outskirts of towns and cities, they had no reason to feel at home in a society where

  • Dr Luurve is axed again

    Radio's popular "Dr Luurve" has been axed for the second time - and his bosses insist this time there is no way back. Smooth-talking Southern FM DJ Ambrose Harcourt told us of his anger and disappointment after learning his contract would not be renewed

  • Government's pledge on Gatwick

    Minister Robin Cook has indicated the Government will stick to the agreement not to expand Gatwick airport before 2019. The Commons Leader said the High Court had been able to force the Government to consider building up to two new runways at the airport

  • Man hurt in boat blast

    A boat owner narrowly escaped death early today when his cabin cruiser exploded in flames at Shoreham Harbour. Tim Brooking, 65, from Worthing, was pinned under debris after a gas explosion ripped the cabin and deck off the Pathfinder. The grandfather

  • No charge over boat tragedy

    A man at the helm of a powerboat which crashed killing hi brother has been told he will not face prosecution. Ian Langan, 45, died after the boat his younger brother Cliff, 44, was driving speared into the side of his craft off Brighton Marina last August

  • Rush-hour protest planned

    Angry traders are to bring rush-hour traffic to a halt in their fifth "white van protest" against a parking policy. The centre of Brighton and Hove will come to a standstill during Tuesday morning's rush-hour as vans decked in protest banners with horns

  • Mr Bean boosts theatre group

    Mr Bean, comedian Rowan Atkinson's rubber-faced movie character, is helping to fund a theatre in Sussex. Amateur drama group the Hurstpierpoint Players hold an auction every two years to raise funds. Over the past few weeks the actors have amassed a collection

  • Around the world with Alan Partridge

    Sussex-based comic Steve Coogan is packing his case for his biggest role yet - as globetrotting adventurer Phileas Fogg. The comedian, who has lived in Hove for the past five years, will spend five months shooting the Hollywood production of Jules Verne's

  • Naughty vending machines prove a hit

    Vending machines offering edible underwear and sex aids have created good vibrations in bars and clubs around Brighton and Hove. The orange boxes have been springing up around the city in recent weeks, providing a welcome relief to anyone who forgot to

  • Jazz This Week, Feb 28-March 6

    Here are the best of the jazz and blues performers appearing around Sussex over the next seven days. MO' INDIGO: Brilliant blues men, pictured above, return to launch their new CD entitled Are We There Yet? Komedia, Brighton, February 28, 9pm. TONI KOFI

  • Gig guide, Feb 28-March 6

    There's an all-star Albion benefit, Tom McCrae's acoustic atmospherics, Watford's raging Mohair and rapper Aim to choose from. AVOID THE DROP, Hove Town Hall, February 28 Those noisy Brighton boys, Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster, headline a benefit

  • Classical: Divertimenti, Old Market, Hove, March 2

    Formed in 1978, Divertimenti have become one of Britain's foremost chamber groups. They appear at most major festivals at home and abroad and are regularly invited to performances in France and Germany. This weekend they appear at the Old Market to close

  • Art: Neel Morley, Grand Central, Brighton, until May

    Imagine turning yourself into a strawberry, Kylie Minogue's boyfriend or one of the Queen's corgis. This is the kind of stunt Neel Morley performs regularly and has spent a small fortune doing. His art lies in how he documents it - in photo booths. He

  • Clubs: Every Day People, The Escape, Brighton, March 1

    Grant Nelson is one of the giants of garage music. I once read a quote that if you ever lose sight of how garage is supposed to sound or the vibe you're supposed to feel, tune into a Grant Nelson remix. The good news for Brighton clubbers is he's not

  • Clubs: Club DiY, Concorde 2, Brighton, March 1

    I've heard lots about this crowd from Nottingham and their music has built a reputation for drawing a decent crowd. The flyer puts it: "Basically, this night will rock but in a very gentle, nice to see you laid-back kind of way." 10.30pm to 3.30am. Admission

  • Clubs: Cream, The Honeyclub, Brighton, March 7

    Futureshock are expected to break out this year so it might be best to catch them at Cream before they escape into the mainstream for good. The Birmingham-based duo of Alex Tepper and Phil Dockerty have been rocking dancefloors for a few years but, with

  • Stage: Chalk Garden, Theatre Royal, Brighton, March 3-8

    Written by high society eccentric and Rottingdean resident Enid Bagnold in the Fifties, this drama follows the fortunes of Mrs St Maugham. She cares for her troublesome granddaughter Laurel with the help of governess Miss Madrigal. Known in the village

  • Pop: Liberty X, Brighton Centre, March 6

    "I was disappointed when I didn't get through but I'm really glad I didn't now," says Jessica Taylor from Liberty X. She's talking about Popstars, the television phenomenon that had us glued to the set every Saturday night for weeks. Jessica made it into

  • Witch to stand for council

    Practising witch Marina Pepper is planning a spell as a local councillor. Unfortunately for the headline writers, she'll be no Blair Witch. She will be nailing her colours firmly to the Liberal Democrat mast as she plunges into Saltdean politics - where

  • Police swoop on drugs 'cuckoos'

    Forty police swamped an estate today to cage "cuckoo" drug dealers who take over people's homes. Five crack houses were raided in Whitehawk, Brighton, and officers seized drugs and made a number of arrests. One woman was found to be was an illegal immigrant

  • Blame it on the people

    "Patients are continuing to cause major bed-blocking problems for hospitals." I find this statement strange as my mum assured me it was the pixies that were using patients' beds. -Sean Herlihy, Starling Close, Burgess Hill

  • A poem for peace

    The poem by Samantha More (Letters February 19) deserves a response: I sniff for war - More people, more people, All want more. Resources limited, water scarce in Palestine, More people saved by doctors, More born premature, alive though not well, More

  • The great peacemaker?

    "The United States and other nations are working on a road map for peace," President Bush said, promising one day Israel and a Palestinian state would live "side by side, in peace". Few would see George W Bush as the great peacemaker and I was amazed

  • Man hurt in boat blast

    A boat owner narrowly escaped death early today when his cabin cruiser exploded in flames at Shoreham Harbour. Tim Brooking, 65, from Worthing, was pinned under debris after a gas explosion ripped the cabin and deck off the Pathfinder. The grandfather

  • Barred GP's plea fails

    A GP struck off for having one of the scruffiest and most disorganised surgeries in Britain showed himself to be "quite unfit" to practice as a doctor, Law Lords said today. Disgraced Dr Peter Sandon, 60, of Uplands Avenue, Worthing, was erased from the

  • Feedback, with Simon Bradshaw

    Our report of the Albion stadium public inquiry in some editions on Tuesday and Wednesday last week contained an error. It wrongly stated Lewes District Council owned the land for the proposed adjacent coach park. The council does not support the stadium

  • Hotel says no to asylum-seekers

    Managers of a seafront hotel near Brighton say it will never be used to house asylum seekers. Staff at the Grand Ocean Hotel in Saltdean said they had never been asked by the Home Office to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. They said

  • Barred GP's plea fails

    A GP struck off for having one of the scruffiest and most disorganised surgeries in Britain showed himself to be "quite unfit" to practice as a doctor, Law Lords said today. Disgraced Dr Peter Sandon, 60, of Uplands Avenue, Worthing, was erased from the

  • Toddler's nightmare journey

    A toddler missing for ten hours was found early today dangling over a stream - cold, wet and trapped in the roots of a tree. Police say it's "remarkable" that little Merlin Reid was unharmed after taking a mile-long walk through a slurry pit and bogs

  • Hitman, 72, gets life

    A 72-year-old Hastings man was today jailed for life for the murder of a newsagent in 1976. Allan Savage confessed last year after seeing an emotional appeal from Geoffrey Small's daughter Cathy on the BBC's Crimewatch TV show, the Old Bailey heard. Savage

  • Golf: Fenwick forced to cut costs

    Ryan Fenwick cannot afford to play the Challenge Tour any longer and will concentrate on the less costly Euro Pro Tour. Ryan, 25, attached to Bognor, reckons entry fees and all other expenses meant him shelling-out close on £700 a week last season. "It

  • Lend-lease?

    I hope Brighton and Hove City Council leader Ken Bodfish meant "lease" when he wrote the council was prepared to "donate" land for the Albion's proposed new stadium at Falmer (Letters, February 21). Otherwise, another bunch of get-rich-quick directors

  • Little voice

    How deeply I agree with the wish of the Albion to reach Falmer. Withdean residents have appreciated the club has respected our environment as far as it has been possible for the team operating in such a restricted area. As we consider the possibility

  • Hockey: Round-Up

    Lewes visit second placed Nottingham in division two tomorrow, without Marnix Achterbergh and Matt Lloyd, who are both unavailable. Lewes skipper Will Champness said: "On paper it looks a tough one but they haven't had very good results since Christmas

  • Joy story

    I feel elated - Brighton and Hove City Council has made the right decision concerning the restoration of the West Pier and I look forward to seeing work start. Now let us have no more prevarication. Work must start immediately. I suggest the existing

  • Hockey: Sussex umpire is on national stage

    David Colbourne has increased Sussex interest in the men's national league after being elected to the umpires panel. Colbourne passed his scrutiny test while umpiring a match at East Grinstead last month. He has no national league game this weekend but

  • Combined Counties: Withdean want points

    Withdean have been promised a quick decision over Tuesday's farcical clash with Merstham. The match at Woodside Road was abandoned 14 minutes from time when the Surrey side were reduced to six men. A combination of injuries and three sendings off meant

  • Rush-hour folly

    Yet another parking protest is planned in Brighton and Hove by people who do not like the city council's policy on parking. They will block the centre of Brighton and Hove during the middle of the rush hour on Tuesday, causing misery to thousands of people

  • Grow our own

    I wanted to let The Argus know how good are the recent articles by Tim Parker covering the difficulties being experienced by our farmers and specialised food and drink producers in this country. We have been involved in farming since many years before

  • Dr Martens: Smart in running for Borough

    Promotion-chasing Eastbourne Borough welcome back Matt Smart for tomorrow's eastern division clash with King's Lynn at Priory Lane. Midfielder Smart was serving a one-game ban and missed last Saturday's 2-0 victory at Sittingbourne which keeps Borough

  • Honour bound

    I am sure there are many readers like myself who very much appreciate the articles on local history and local historical personalities Adam Trimingham contributes to The Argus. Adam has a tremendous store of local historical knowledge he shares with us

  • Ryman: Collins riddles for Maggs

    Horsham boss John Maggs has no idea whether Rob Collins will be playing for him in tomorrow's division one south clash with Epsom. The transfer-listed striker scoired a hat-trick in last saturday's 5-0 hammering at Croydon Athletic but then failed to

  • South Coast sprawl began as a contest

    It is a pity the description below the aerial photo of Peacehaven (The Argus Extra, February 19) was so incorrect. Local residents often ask us how Peacehaven came into existence so, without going into too much detail - it is a long and complex story

  • Ryman League: Rebels want repeat show

    Worthing boss Barry Lloyd thinks his side can emulate their Sussex Senior Cup victory against rivals Lewes tomorrow. The Woodside Road club won 2-0 at the Dripping Pan earlier in the season and Lloyd is hoping for a repeat performance in the league. He

  • Matthew Clark: Town hunt new boss

    County League Division Three side Uckfield Town are looking for a new manager. The club want someone with experience in Sussex football. Chairman Peter Walsh said: "We have a good squad of youngsters coming through and we want someone to take it on from

  • Matthew Clark: Merger is way forward

    John Pinyoun insists the merger between Eastbourne United and Shinewater Association could be the way forward for other clubs in Sussex. The two Eastbourne sides confirmed on Wednesday they would be playing under the same banner as Eastbourne United Association

  • Coppell: March holds the key

    Albion boss Steve Coppell wants his troops to launch a March for safety at home specialists Gillingham tomorrow. The trip to the Priestfield Stadium kicks off a key month which Coppell believes could be the making of the Seagulls' fight for First Division

  • Racing: Amanda sets £1m target

    Amanda Perrett has set a double target for her Coombelands Stables this year. She said: "The aim is to exceed last year's total of 60 winners and to win a £1m in stake money. "If the luck had gone the other way in two or three Group One races in which

  • Mice little earner for barn owls

    Barn owls are being offered bed and breakfast at a Sussex sewage works in return for a few hours' pest control a day. Southern Water has installed nest boxes at its wastewater works in Gossards Green, near Burgess Hill, in the hope the vulnerable birds

  • Parents warned over truancy

    Almost half the children stopped during truancy sweeps in Sussex had no valid excuse for being absent, it emerged today. Out of 40 youngsters from East Sussex, caught outside lessons without a reason, 21 were girls while 26 were of secondary school age

  • Bug outbreak at hospitals

    Hospital patients and staff in Brighton have been struck down by an infectious stomach bug. Two wards have been closed and about 20 patients are suffering from the condition, commonly known as winter vomiting disease. One ward at Brighton General Hospital

  • Business info gets new look

    A newsletter designed to provide businesses with local information has been given a new look. Business Today, formerly Horsham Business News, is being relaunched next week. Published free by Horsham District Council every six months, Business Today contains

  • L&G cuts bonus again

    Insurance group Legal & General yesterday cut bonus rates on endowment policies for the second time in five months after posting a seven per cent drop in operating profits. The group, which has offices in Hove, blamed falling stock markets for its

  • Iraq war fears hit confidence

    Fears of an imminent war in Iraq has sent consumer confidence plummeting to its lowest level for five years. The confidence barometer, conducted by Martin Hamblin GfK, registered an overall drop by six points to minus nine for February with more than

  • Stadium plan safety questioned

    Brighton and Hove Albion has no independent evidence to back up claims Falmer is the only safe site for a 22,000 seat stadium, say opponents. Campaigners against the plan told a public inquiry into the scheme Falmer would need similar work to all the

  • Dr Luurve is axed again

    Radio's popular "Dr Luurve" has been axed for the second time - and his bosses insist this time there is no way back. Smooth-talking Southern FM DJ Ambrose Harcourt told us of his anger and disappointment after learning his contract would not be renewed

  • Man hurt in boat blast

    A boat owner narrowly escaped death early today when his cabin cruiser exploded in flames at Shoreham Harbour. Tim Brooking, 65, from Worthing, was pinned under debris after a gas explosion ripped the cabin and deck off the Pathfinder. The grandfather

  • Toddler's nightmare journey

    A toddler missing for ten hours was found early today dangling over a stream - cold, wet and trapped in the roots of a tree. Police say it's "remarkable" that little Merlin Reid was unharmed after taking a mile-long walk through a slurry pit and bogs

  • Drink-driver let off hook

    Police have blamed poor mobile phone reception for a drink-driver escaping justice. The force said a call they received about the driver kept breaking up and they had insufficient information to nab the offender. Photographer Mark Dimmock alerted police

  • Stadium plan safety questioned

    Brighton and Hove Albion has no independent evidence to back up claims Falmer is the only safe site for a 22,000 seat stadium, say opponents. Campaigners against the plan told a public inquiry into the scheme Falmer would need similar work to all the

  • Dollar star's TV comeback tour

    Eighties pop idol David Van Day hopes to resurrect his career by flying the flag for Britain in a reality TV show. Brighton-born David and singing partner Thereza Bazar will leave for America this weekend to film the new ITV1 show Reborn In The USA. They

  • Green scheme unites councils

    A new pact to bring recycling levels in West Sussex up to 45 per cent has been launched. The Memorandum of Understanding commits West Sussex County Council as well as the districts and boroughs of Adur, Arun, Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, Mid Sussex and

  • Jazz This Week, Feb 28-March 6

    Here are the best of the jazz and blues performers appearing around Sussex over the next seven days. MO' INDIGO: Brilliant blues men, pictured above, return to launch their new CD entitled Are We There Yet? Komedia, Brighton, February 28, 9pm. TONI KOFI

  • On stage this week, Feb 28-March 6

    Asian stand-up, outrage from Mark Little, First World War drama and a riotous look at marriage - they're our picks of the week. LOVIN' A SORNA GORA, The Hawth, Hawth Avenue, Crawley, March 1 This mix of Asian stand-up, sitcom and sketches tells the tale

  • Classical: Divertimenti, Old Market, Hove, March 2

    Formed in 1978, Divertimenti have become one of Britain's foremost chamber groups. They appear at most major festivals at home and abroad and are regularly invited to performances in France and Germany. This weekend they appear at the Old Market to close

  • Art: Neel Morley, Grand Central, Brighton, until May

    Imagine turning yourself into a strawberry, Kylie Minogue's boyfriend or one of the Queen's corgis. This is the kind of stunt Neel Morley performs regularly and has spent a small fortune doing. His art lies in how he documents it - in photo booths. He

  • Clubs: Wild Fruit, Creation, Brighton, March 3

    DJ Dave Piccioni will be leading a house tribute to the spirit of Studio 54 - "star-studded temple of vice and disco hedonism". Dress to impress or, in their own words "think Liza, Warhol, Bianca and Rod, celebrity overload." 10pm to 3am. Admission is

  • Clubs: Every Day People, The Escape, Brighton, March 1

    Grant Nelson is one of the giants of garage music. I once read a quote that if you ever lose sight of how garage is supposed to sound or the vibe you're supposed to feel, tune into a Grant Nelson remix. The good news for Brighton clubbers is he's not

  • Clubs: Club DiY, Concorde 2, Brighton, March 1

    I've heard lots about this crowd from Nottingham and their music has built a reputation for drawing a decent crowd. The flyer puts it: "Basically, this night will rock but in a very gentle, nice to see you laid-back kind of way." 10.30pm to 3.30am. Admission

  • Clubs: Cream, The Honeyclub, Brighton, March 7

    Futureshock are expected to break out this year so it might be best to catch them at Cream before they escape into the mainstream for good. The Birmingham-based duo of Alex Tepper and Phil Dockerty have been rocking dancefloors for a few years but, with

  • Jazz: Wayne Shorter Quartet, Brighton Dome, March 6

    Few can dispute Wayne Shorter's status as one of the most important jazz musicians alive. It's now almost 50 years since he got his first big concert, playing saxophone with pianist Horace Silver. Since then he has established a CV that reads like a who's

  • Comedy: Mark Thomas, Brighton, February 28 & March 4

    Fans of Thomas will be able to enjoy a double whammy this week as the part-comedian part-agitator treats us to two performances. First he hosts a charity auction in aid of the Green Party at Grand Central, Surrey Street, on February 28. Then he will be

  • Government's pledge on Gatwick

    Robin Cook has indicated the Government will stick to the agreement not to expand Gatwick airport before 2019. The Commons Leader said the High Court had been able to force the Government to consider building up to two new runways at the airport.

  • New row over runway bid

    The Government's newly-unveiled proposals for runway expansion in the UK have already sparked a fierce debate around Gatwick. Those for the proposals say they make economic sense, those against say any runway expansion would spell ecological doom.