Age-old folk songs given a new lease of life in Burpham

Tunes of shepherds, love, war and historic occasions – many of which haven’t been heard for hundreds of years – were brought back to life for a new generation of singers as part of a two-year scheme on behalf of the South Downs Society.

More than 250 people took part in the initiative which saw them learning 21 songs, some dating from the 18th century with others stretching well into the mediaeval period, and recording them onto a CD entitled South Downs Songs – Live at the Burpham Sessions.

The scheme, which ended this month, was the brainchild of Worthing man Chris Hare, who had successfully applied for a grant of £48,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Chris explained: “The whole idea came from a discussion between me and the members of the South Downs Society. They were seeking to expand their activity to teach people about the cultural heritage of the South Downs.

“They were very taken with this idea so I applied for a bid from the HLF. I ran a total of six courses, which involved more than 250 people, so it was a remarkable success.”

Workshops took place in Chichester, Lewes, Petersfield, Brighton, Worthing and Billingshurst, with all the songs being recorded at the project’s base, at Burpham Village Hall.

Chris, who was assisted by Emily Longhurst and Ann Feloy throughout the initiative, added: “Of all the HLF schemes I have been involved in, none of them compare to the level of joy and joie de vivre that everyone who took part in this project experienced.”

The CD is now available to purchase via the South Downs Society’s website, here or by calling 01798 875073.

Robert Cheesman, chairman of the society, said: “This wonderful project has surpassed our hopes in achieving this end and reaching out to people of all ages and backgrounds.”