Press Releases week beginning 18 February 2019

It's the year of the Pig-Chinese New Year celebrations

Hastings celebrated Chinese New Year on 17 February at Priory Meadow shopping centre. There was an opening speech the mayor of Hastings Cllr Nigel Sinden.

Cllr Peter Chowney, leader of Hastings Borough Council said,
"The Chinese New Year celebrations are always a colourful, lively and fun way to brighten up a Winter afternoon, and this year's event was no exception,  I'm very grateful to the members of the local Chinese community who put this event on.  This event also helps to remind us of the increasing cultural diversity we have in Hastings, and how new communities settling here have helped to regenerate the town, creating new cultural traditions and local businesses that help to boost the local economy."

The event featured a variety of traditional Chinese dances, the lion dance, baby dragon dance and the ribbon dance. There were also gymnastics demonstrations, with a chance to join in and several martial arts displays throughout the afternoon. A large and appreciative crowd was in attendance to celebrate the year of the Pig.

Autism friendly events at Hastings Museum and Art Gallery

On March 8, from 10 to 11am Hastings Museum and Art Gallery are holding a coffee morning to discuss how the museum can be more welcoming and inclusive for neurodiverse children and families, people living with autism or additional needs.

Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is an inspiring place to visit, but autistic children can often find outings challenging.

Kim Forward, lead councillor for cultural services said,
"We would like to work with families who have autistic children, to create resources that will support their child's visit. The museum staff will be offering early opening times and autism friendly events starting in April so the coffee morning will be an opportunity to see what the museum has to offer and suggest more ideas to make the museum a fun and rewarding place to visit with your autistic child. A follow-up coffee morning is planned for 9 May."

The event and entrance to the museum is free.

Please confirm attendance on 01424 451052 or email lbolch@hastings.gov.uk