June 10 2014

Report by Amanda WIlkins


The wet weather forecast was not going to spoil the Denton Community Challenge, which took place last Saturday. Organisers and stallholders worked through the morning downpour to have everything ready for Norman Baker MP to welcome everyone and declare the ‘games’ open.

The theme this year was ‘Road to Rio’ with many activities based on the upcoming football World Cup. Local sports and social groups ran ‘sporting challenges’ around the arena, all of which could be enjoyed for a nominal charge. On completion of the challenges participants claimed their ‘Road to Rio’ rosette before enjoying a free burger from the Denton Scouts BBQ. Certificates were also issued courtesy of Active Sussex, who supported our efforts again this year.

County Councillor Chris Dowling, Lead Member for Community Services, joined Gina Rogers from Active Sussex to present the ‘Community Games Shining Light 2014’ award to Cliff Dargonne, of our organising committee, for his ‘Dedication to Community Sport’.

Activities then got underway in the arena, with displays from Scriven’s Martial Arts and Seaford Dog Agility Club; dancing displays from Norcross Dancers, Hula-maniacs and Up the Tempo! There was also a Cadets football challenge and drill display from 1218 Squadron Air Cadets, then the CrossFit Corinthian Family Relay, and the ever-popular Tug-of-War competition with teams from RNLI, Flying Fish, Denton Church and the winners coming from CrossFit Corinthians.

Side shows and games were provided by Newhaven Cricket & Tennis Clubs, South Heighton Bonfire Society, Peacehaven Swimming Club and others who used the day to raise much needed funds and promote membership. Fete stalls and attractions were provided by other local groups and charities including JDMF, Hayden’s Wish, South Heighton WI, MNDA, Remember Spencer, GOSH and others. There was also a climbing wall and pony rides which both proved very popular throughout the afternoon.

This year we were also fortunate to have a Craft Fair running in tandem in the Denton Community Centre, organised by Danni Bruce, who also coordinated a cake competition, judged by Norman Baker, and won by Lyn Kearley.

Raffle prizes were drawn in the main arena by Newhaven Mayor, Councillor Judith Ost, who awarded the star prize of an Apple i-pad mini, kindly donated by Keep-it-Kleen, to winner Julie Martin.

The afternoon was drawn to a close by Rev Louis Wilson of Denton Church, who thanked the many supporters and volunteers who made the day possible!

Denton Community Challenge is a committee of volunteers from Denton Church, the James Daniels Memorial Fund, FADS and local residents. The ‘Road to Rio’ was well supported by Newhaven Town and South Heighton Parish Councils, by local businesses and charities, and our thanks go out to them for enabling us to organise such a successful and enjoyable, inclusive day.


Pictured above:  l to r - Gina Rogers from Active Sussex, Norman Baker MP, Cliff Dargonne, ESCC Councillor Chris Dowling and 2013 Sussex Shining Light Amanda Wilkins. Photo Gary English.