Update on avian botulism outbreak
Part of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve around Castle Water remains closed after hundreds of dead birds have been found and collected by nature reserve staff and volunteers.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Sussex Wildlife Trust said, “Things are certainly heading in the right direction, with fewer dead birds collected this week. The current total of dead birds stands at 414. Changes in the weather and increased rainfall are also helping the situation to improve. This outbreak is driven by environmental conditions, namely hot weather and drought.
“We are continuing to survey the site and collect dead birds. Further samples have been sent to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) for testing. It may take over four weeks for results to come back, as samples will be tested for multiple vectors, including avian influenza.
“We thank visitors for their co-operation by keeping dogs on leads and not visiting Castle Water. The Discovery Centre and remainder of the reserve are open but please follow on-site signage.”
Goodbye Freda
What could be the very last exhibition the New Road Artists hold at Rye Creative Centre in the old Freda Gardham building begins on Thursday 10 September. The building is expected to be demolished for new housing, with some of the artists moving to new studios on Rye Harbour Road.
A spokesperson for the artists said, “For years this former school has been our home — a place to work, teach, and share our creative practices. We thought we’d only be here for a few years, but 18 years later, we have grown into a wonderfully supportive community, which welcomes over 100 other creatives every week. As the building prepares for its own new chapter, we mark the occasion with one final (probably) group exhibition in The Old Gym, to celebrate the community we’ve built here, before say a final ‘Goodbye’ to Freda.”
Free offer
There’s a chance to have a look inside Rye Castle for free this Saturday 12 September. Ypres Tower will be open from 10.30am until 5pm as part of Heritage Open Days.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to “Choose Local” for Bonfire Season by enjoying an organised bonfire or fireworks display in their community rather than celebrating at home.
A spokesperson for the Service said, “We strongly advise not having a bonfire or setting off fireworks in your own garden or private spaces, particularly following the recent hot weather. Fires can easily get out of control, spreading quickly and unpredictably, posing a risk to life, property and nearby open spaces. There are, however, many organised bonfire events held locally each year. We work with event organisers and partner agencies in advance, providing fire safety advice and guidance.”
Rye Bonfire is on Saturday 14 November this year.
Congratulations
Greta Anderson has been appointed as the new Co-CEO of Rother Voluntary Action (RVA) alongside Kim Richards.
RVA supports hundreds of voluntary and community organisations across Rye and the Rother District. Its mission is to help local individuals, community groups, charities and social enterprises make a difference by developing knowledge and skills.
She said she was looking forward to the new role, “I know the passion, expertise and commitment that exists across our organisation and the voluntary sector. I’m proud to be stepping into the role of Co-CEO and look forward to building on the excellent work already underway.”
Image Credits: David McLoughlin , Matt Rich/Sussex Wildlife Trust , Rye Creative Centre , Natasha Robinson , Tony Ham .