LEWES TO HOST NEEDLEWORK FESTIVAL

This is the third Needlework Festival organised by the national First Aid training, Care and Patient Transport charity, St. John Ambulance Sussex which takes place on 19 and 20 April at Lewes Town Hall.

In 2005, the charity raised a staggering 20,000 and its committee Chairman, Phyllida de Salis, hopes to increase these funds which will go to its Homeless Service Projects operating in Brighton & Hove, Hastings & St Leonards and also Youth Projects in Sussex. The event sponsor is Legal & General, Hove.

Needlework enthusiasts are being invited to submit exhibits on a Sussex theme which have been completed within one year of the competition date of Wednesday 28 February. These can be anything from a pin cushion to a wall hanging within a maximum size of 24 x 24 " or 60 x 60cm and will be judged in three classes, Canvas work, Embroidery and Quilting. Individuals, Groups and School entries are welcome, the age groups are 6-11, 12-18 and Adult and prizes are available for all three classes.

During the two day Festival, the "Embroidery of the Century" produced in aid of the national "War Child" charity will be on display. It depicts major historical events during the 20th Century.

Demonstrators and stall holders from all over the South East of England will be exhibiting.

To submit an entry for the Competition download an entry from www.sja.org.uk/sussex or contact

St John Ambulance Sussex County HQ direct on 01903 235599. Entries to be sent to the County's new Headquarters at Crowhurst Corner, Crowhurst Road, Brighton, BN1 8AP by Wednesday 28 February.