A COLLEGE with hundreds of years of history is calling on former students for help with an exhibition.

Sussex Downs College has organised its first alumni week from April 27 to May 1.

To mark the occasion it is compiling a permanent exhibition of memorabilia of the college through the ages and wants to feature schoolday stories.

A number of institutions in Lewes, Eastbourne and Newhaven, dating to 1899, form part of the history of the college which was formed in 2001 and still has campuses in the three towns. Former students will be invited back to talk about what they do now.

So far, a 1941 school cap and books used at Lewes County Grammar School for Boys between 1931 and 1969 have been handed over for the exhibition but more memorabilia is needed from before the college was formed.

Nigel Ryan, alumni, school liaison and marketing officer at the college, said: “Get talking to your parents, aunts, uncles and grandparents.

“They may have attended when it was known as Eastbourne High School for Girls between 1928 and 1977, Eastbourne Grammar School for Boys between 1928 and 1977 or Lewes County Grammar School for Boys between 1931 and 1969.

Chances are, if they studied in Lewes or Eastbourne between 1900 and today, it was an institution that makes up part of Sussex Downs College as it is known today.

“We have so many notable alumni, from actors, artists and musicians to beauty therapists, caterers and even politicians.

“Our Alumni Week is a chance to bring them all together and showcase the achievements of our former students.”

To talk at the event or offer memorabilia for inclusion in the exhibition call 030 300 39076 or email nigel.ryan@ sussexdowns.ac.uk