Welcome to the Show!
This Thursday is the first day of the South of England show in Ardingly showground. One of the biggest agricultural events in the South East. It is where volunteers from our churches across Sussex come together to serve at The Sanctuary - a place where you can step out of the hubub of the Show and take a breath.
Rev Sue Wilkinson from Willingdon Eastbourne is the lead co-ordinator of The Sanctuary. She said: “The Sanctuary provides a safe space for accompanied children to play and parents and carers to rest. It is where the Lost People post is located and has a buggy park for parents and carers with babies and toddlers. We also provide baby changing facilities.
“The Sanctuary could not operate without its army of volunteers and we are so grateful to them for all they do. We are very grateful to the show committee who welcome us each year, and for our bishops and clergy who come to participate and meet the exhibitors and visitors. It is a great place to come and relax and meet up with friends. Everyone is welcome, and tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are always available.”
The Sanctuary will be hosting the Sussex Bells again this year and a wide range of forest school and other children’s activities for all ages. We will always include a prayer and worship focus which is central to our work. Books Alive will be resident on all three day with a great range of books and gifts.
A new feature this year is the Gruffalo, the popular children’s character written by Steyning author Julia Donaldson. The Gruffalo will be making an appearance in the woods alongside the Sanctuary space.
Last year was the 50th anniversary of the show. This year it takes place at Ardingly showground on Thursday 6 June – Saturday 8 June. Children under 16 go free.