Multiple police cars, including an armed response unit, and paramedics were reportedly called to a property in Newhaven. An air ambulance was also reported to have landed on the Lewes Road Recreation Ground.

A police spokesman said: "We were called to a report of a man being stabbed at a property in Elphick Road, Newhaven, at 11.30pm on Monday, January 6.

"Sadly, despite efforts to save him, the victim died at the scene.

"A 16-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder and has been taken to police custody.

"The road is closed while the incident is being dealt with.

"There are no further details available at this time."

A total of 5,152 cars were delivered to customers in over 50 countries around the world, an increase of 25% on the previous high set in 2018.

The year saw significant new investment in the manufacturing plant at Goodwood, reaffirming both the company’s commitment to its UK operations and its buoyant outlook for the years ahead.

Projects included further refinements to the already world-class manufacturing facilities, equipment and processes, to maximise efficiency and ensure the highest levels of quality as demanded by Rolls-Royce customers. A new two-storey development, due for completion in the first quarter of 2020, will add more than 1,000 square metres to the ground floor Assembly Hall, and create additional first-floor office space.

At more than 2,000 strong, with 50 nationalities represented, the workforce at the Home of Rolls-Royce is now at its largest since the opening of Rolls-Royce’s Global Centre for Luxury Manufacturing Excellence, in 2003. During 2019, 50 new jobs were created to meet expanded global demand.

This year’s intake of 26 new entrants on the company’s highly successful Apprenticeship Programme included the first-ever Sir Ralph Robins Degree Apprenticeship candidates. Named after the ex-CEO of Rolls‑Royce plc, Sir Ralph has served as a Non-Executive Director of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars since its inception in 2003.

Since the launch of the Apprenticeship Programme in 2006, almost 200 participants have completed a combination of hands-on practical training alongside skilled Associates and vocational training at local colleges. A number of these remarkable men and women have gone on to hold important technical and supervisory roles within the company.

Commenting on the results, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “This performance is of an altogether different magnitude to any previous year’s sales success. While we celebrate these remarkable results we are conscious of our key promise to our customers, to keep our brand rare and exclusive. We are pleased and proud to have delivered growth of 25% in 2019.

"Worldwide demand last year for our Cullinan SUV has driven this success and is expected to stabilise in 2020. It is a ringing testament to the quality and integrity of our products, the faith and passion of our customers and, above all, the skill, dedication and determination of our exceptional team at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood and around the world and our dedicated global dealer network.”

Sales grew across all regions during the year, driven by strong customer demand for all Rolls‑Royce models. The company reported significant sales growth in every one of its key global markets. North America retained top status (around a third of global sales) followed by China and Europe (including UK). Individual countries that achieved strong sales results included Russia, Singapore, Japan, Australia, Qatar and Korea.

In 2019, Rolls-Royce motor cars were sold in more than 50 countries worldwide through a global network of 135 dealerships. As part of its commitment to long-term sustainable growth, Rolls‑Royce announced two new dealerships during 2019 – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Brisbane and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Shanghai Pudong. Development of the new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars flagship dealership in Berkeley Street, London – more than twice the size of the previous location – is underway and is due for launch later in the year.

Phantom retains its rightful place as the company’s pinnacle product, with Dawn and Wraith continuing to dominate their respective sectors; strong demand was experienced for all three models during the year. Cullinan, the marque’s new SUV, successfully translated the media plaudits and public acclaim into the largest advance order book and fastest post‑launch sales growth of any Rolls-Royce model in history.

In November 2019, the marque completed its dark, edgy Black Badge family with the addition of Cullinan Black Badge alongside Ghost, Dawn and Wraith variants, all of which were highly sought-after by customers seeking a more individual, rebellious expression of the Rolls‑Royce brand.

In its first full year of availability, Cullinan exceeded even the highest expectations raised by its successful launch. The world’s pre-eminent super-luxury SUV has become the fastest-selling new Rolls-Royce model in history.

The fervour throughout the year around the arrival of Cullinan was matched only by the media and public sensation occasioned by the launch of Cullinan Black Badge, ‘The King of the Night’, in November. This completed the Black Badge family of unapologetic, dynamic products created for an emerging generation of super-luxury consumer; people who refuse to be defined by traditional codes of luxury, follow their own path and make their own rules.

2019 marked the end of Ghost production after 11 years of uninterrupted commercial and critical success. Since its launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, Ghost has established itself as an undisputed modern classic. The most popular Rolls-Royce model of the Goodwood era, Ghost attracted a new audience of younger, often self-made, entrepreneurial customers to the Rolls-Royce brand. An extended wheelbase version was introduced in 2011 and an updated Ghost Series II was unveiled in Geneva in 2014. The last Ghost of the current generation left the Goodwood production line at the end of 2019.

Ghost has been a highly successful and vitally important car for Rolls-Royce. Over its 11-year lifecycle – a truly remarkable record for any motor car – it became the biggest-selling Rolls-Royce not just of the Goodwood era, but in the entire history of the marque. The commercial success of Ghost placed Rolls-Royce in a position to scale up its production and make the massive investments that have led to it becoming the truly global brand it is today.

Ghost’s successor is due for launch in mid-2020 after five years in development. With market availability from the fourth quarter, the successor will elevate the Ghost name, and the company itself, to new heights of excellence and ambition in design, engineering, materials and driving dynamics.

Global demand for Rolls-Royce Bespoke reached a new peak in 2019. The Bespoke Collective at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, comprises several hundred creative designers, engineers and craftspeople. These highly talented men and women take enormous pride in fulfilling unprecedented levels of customer requests for Bespoke personalisation and delivering on beautiful individual commissions such as the Rose Phantom. Undisputed global leaders in their pursuit of perfection, the Bespoke Collective captured the imagination of customers, enthusiasts, media and fans alike in 2019 with some of the most spectacular Collection Cars ever created in the history of the brand. Bespoke IS Rolls-Royce!

Among the year’s Bespoke highlights was the Zenith Collector’s Edition of Rolls-Royce Ghost. Limited to just 50 examples, this masterpiece was created to mark the end of Ghost’s remarkable 11-year reign.

Wraith Eagle VIII celebrated the centenary of Alcock and Brown’s first non-stop transatlantic flight (powered by twin Rolls-Royce Eagle engines). Tranquillity Phantom, inspired by space exploration, features a unique Gallery inspired by the X-Ray coded aperture masks used on the British Skylark space rocket and, for the first time in a Rolls-Royce, incorporates meteorite as an aesthetic embellishment.

New accessories added to the existing, much celebrated Bespoke offering, including the exceptional Rolls-Royce Champagne Chest.

In closing, Mr Müller-Ötvös said, “There is no other company like Rolls-Royce Motor Cars: we are all conscious of what a privilege it is to design, build and deliver the best car in the world for our customers. PersonalIy, I continue to feel honoured and humbled to have led this great company for the past decade.”

The Forestry Commission has confirmed it is investigating residents’ concerns over tree felling in Crawley woodland.

The Forestry Commission has confirmed it is investigating residents’ concerns over tree felling in Crawley woodland.

The work has been taking place in Burleys Wood, on an area of land which is privately owned.

A number of trees have been cut down, exposing the motorway.

Residents reported the tree felling work had started two weeks before Christmas.

Simon Hodge, a resident in Crabbet Park, Worth, said: “An area of woodland has been decimated adjacent to the M23.

“When the workman have been approached by residents various different stories have been given for the reason. The most common story is the trees were rotten and dangerous.

“I am concerned that the environmental impact this will have on the local wildlife as well as residents is severe.”

A Crawley Borough Council spokesman confirmed the authority had been made aware of the works.

They said: “The council was alerted to these works [on Thursday, January 2] and can confirm that a private party is undertaking the tree felling.

“The area is defined as ancient woodland and owned by Highways England, with the exception of a small section in between the pathway and motorway, which is privately owned. This appears to be where the work is taking place.

“The council will be referring the matter to the Forestry Commission in order to determine whether the felled trees required a licence to fell. There do not appear to have been any breaches of planning controls.”

The Forestry Commission confirmed it was looking at the issue.

A spokesman said: “Two Forestry Commission woodland officers visited the site to gather evidence and talk to all parties involved. It is too early to tell if those who brought down the trees committed an offence.

“We are looking into the allegations.”

More than 12,000 votes have already been counted for the Sussex Food & Drink Awards 2020 Finalists, which is seeking the best food and drink producers, farmers, butchers and places serving and selling local produce.

With just a few days left, organisers are urging people to vote for their favourites by midnight on January 18 2020 at www.sussexfoodawards.biz
Paula Seager, co-director of Natural Partnerships CIC, who runs the awards, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to see so many people voting and giving our superb food and drink producers in the region the recognition that they deserve, which is what these awards are all about.

“Businesses from across the county have made it onto the list including 31 from West Sussex, 19 from East Sussex and seven from Brighton & Hove. Please do go online and vote for your favourites to win, it’s really quick and easy and could make all the difference.

“The competition is incredibly tight again this year and we would love to beat our record number of votes from last year. The results of the public vote are so important and will help our expert judges to select the top three Grand Finalists 2020 in each category, who will be announced in March.”

Categories

Sussex is renowned for its innovation in making artisan food products and this year's Sussex Food Producer of the Year category, sponsored by Southern Co-op, represents so much of what is special about the region. The finalist line up includes an award-winning chocolatier, Sussex honey, fantastic fudge-makers, mouthwatering ice cream, superb farm produce, brilliant bakers, hand-crafted sausage makers, delectable preserve producers and hand made beef biltong.

Farmers Markets are a familiar fixture in many of the towns and villages across the county and have grown enormously in popularity over the last decade. They are one of the best advocates in supporting local and regional food and drink producers and offer a great opportunity to sample some of the very best that Sussex has to offer. Seven of the best Sussex Farmers’ Markets have made it through as finalists for this category sponsored by Harvey’s Brewery.

From traditional family butchers who have passed down their skills from generation to generation, to resourceful outlets who specialise in locally sourced meats or farm shops that have managed to diversify and build a reputation in quality and zero carbon footprint, they are all well represented in this year’s Sussex Butcher of the Year category sponsored by RP Meats Wholesale Ltd.

Sussex Food Shop of the Year sponsored by Sussex Food & Drink Network presents a spread of both new and old from across the region, each offering its own unique take on bringing plough to plate. Some familiar names, as well as some new ones, can be found on the shortlist this year.

Residents of Sussex have an outstanding choice of where they choose to dine out from Michelin star restaurants, country pubs, elegant fine dining and trendy cafés, all of which are reflected in the finalist line up in this year's Sussex Eating Experience of the Year category, sponsored by Lloyds Bank Cardnet.

The Sussex Drink Producer category, sponsored by Natural PR, not only offers some of the county’s, but the country’s very best wine producers, brewers, non-alcoholic drink producers and specialist gin and spirit makers so make sure your favourite Sussex tipple makes it through to the final round.

Entries for Young Sussex Farmer of the Year, sponsored by Natural Partnerships CIC in association with Farmers Weekly; Sussex Young Chef of the Year, sponsored by Blakes Foods and Sussex Newcomer of the Year sponsored by SRC-Time, have now closed and the final judging process will take place over the next six weeks.

The final top six young chefs will participate in a Masterchef-style cook off in March 2020 at the Gallery at the Greater Brighton Metropolitan College. Nationally acclaimed chef, Matt Gillan from Heritage will head up the panel of judges which includes fellow Michelin star chefs George Blogg from Gravetye Manor near East Grinstead and Tristan Mason from Restaurant Tristan in Horsham, along with sponsor and former restaurateur, Adrian Burr from Blakes Foods.

Grand Finalists from all ten categories will be invited to attend a BAFTA-style ceremony on April 29 2020 at the Amex Stadium in Brighton, where the winners will be revealed and more than 300 guests will enjoy a seven-course Sussex produce banquet, hosted by awards patron Sally Gunnell OBE and Danny Pike from BBC Sussex.

Vote for your favourite now by visiting www.sussexfoodawards.biz
Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2020 Finalists:

Sussex Food Producer of the Year, sponsored by Southern Co-op

Bangers Galore, Horsham, West Sussex

Boho Gelato, Brighton & Hove

Jengers Craft Bakery, Billingshurst, West Sussex

Latchetts Farm, Danehill, East Sussex

Noble and Stace Chocolatiers, Midhurst, West Sussex

Perfectly Preserved, Worthing, West Sussex

South Downs Honey, Lancing, West Sussex

Southview Farm Dairy, Pulborough, West Sussex

The Copper Pan Fudge Company, Chichester, West Sussex

The Sussex Biltong Co, Piltdown, East Sussex

Sussex Butcher of the Year, sponsored by RP Meats Wholesale Ltd

Archers of Westfield, Westfield, East Sussex

Bramptons Butchers, Brighton & Hove

C.L.Leppard of Mayfield, Mayfield, East Sussex

Cottenhams of Lindfield – Craft Butchers, Lindfield, West Sussex

Coughtrey’s Butchers, Pulborough, West Sussex

Cowdray Farm Shop Butchery, Midhurst, West Sussex

Michael Courtney Butchers, Midhurst, West Sussex

New Street Butchers & Deli, Horsham, West Sussex

Nick The Butcher, Hartfield, East Sussex

Tablehurst Farm, Forest Row, East Sussex

Sussex Farmers Market of the Year, sponsored by Harvey’s Brewery

Chichester Farmers Market, West Sussex

Forest Row Village Market, East Sussex

Hailsham Farmers Market, East Sussex

Horsham Market (Saturday), West Sussex

Lewes Farmers Market, East Sussex

Shoreham Farmers Market, West Sussex

The Great Little Farmers Market, Worthing, West Sussex

Sussex Eating Experience of the Year, sponsored by Lloyds Bank Cardnet

Crabshack, Worthing, West Sussex

etch. by Steven Edwards, Brighton & Hove

Into The Blue, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex

Restaurant Interlude, Lower Beeding, West Sussex

Semolina, Brighton & Hove

The Cat Inn, West Hoathly, West Sussex

The Earl of March Country Pub & Restaurant, Lavant, West Sussex

The Fig Tree, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex

The Pink Cabbage Produce Co., Mayfield, East Sussex

The Seahorse Cafe, East Preston, West Sussex

Sussex Drink Producer of the Year, sponsored by Natural PR

Bedlam Brewery, Plumpton Green, East Sussex

Bolney Wine Estate, Bolney, West Sussex

Brighton Bier, Brighton & Hove

Brighton Gin, Brighton & Hove

Chilgrove Spirits, Chichester, West Sussex

Drunken Berries, Chichester, West Sussex

Long Man Brewery, Litlington, East Sussex

Oxney Organic Estate, Beckley, East Sussex

Ridgeview Wine Estate, Ditchling Common, East Sussex

Wobblegate Crushed Fruit Juices, Bolney, West Sussex

Sussex Food Shop of the Year, sponsored by Sussex Food and Drink Network

Barney’s Delicatessen, Brighton & Hove

Cowdray Farm Shop, Midhurst, West Sussex

Eggs to Apples Farm Shop, Etchingham, East Sussex

Jeremy’s Two, Cowfold, West Sussex

Nick the Butcher Farm Shop and Deli, Hartfield, East Sussex

Park Farm Shop, Falmer, East Sussex

Rushfields Farm Shop, Poynings, West Sussex

The Fresh Fish Shop, Haywards Heath, West Sussex

The Seasons Forest Row, Forest Row, East Sussex

Veasey & Sons Fishmongers, Forest Row, East Sussex

The annual South Downs Way walk will return for its 41st year this June, running from Winchester to Eastbourne and lying entirely within the South Downs National Park.

Taking place over nine days, from June 5 to June 13, the walk encompasses 100 miles and walkers will be collected by coach each morning from different points in West Sussex.

In a lighthearted signpost to Brexit, event organisers joked there would be no visa requirements.

Footprints team member Keith McKenna said: “We are delighted to say that we have had some very positive discussions with both East Sussex and Hampshire counties and can confirm that visa waivers will be issued for all those crossing the county borders in June.

“We have even reached an agreement on tariffs so that the ice creams we are giving to walkers in Hampshire can be imported duty free into Sussex.

“There was initially some concern about the Irish Question - until it was pointed out that the Irish MP, Charles Stewart Parnell, did actually have to cross the South Downs Way to attend his marriage in Steyning. It was therefore deemed to be a legitimate question and not just a backstop.”

Team member Sally Dench said: “Keith has been very busy getting this done. He was particularly concerned about the can of cider he keeps in his backpack for the end of the day’s walk.

“He didn’t want to be accused of being a smuggler although suspiciously he is often seen in a pub of that name which is on the eastern end of the trail.”

The walk involves ‘bite-sized’ chunks of around 11 miles a day.

To book your place or find out more, visit the South Downs Way website here or call 01903 813381.

A school has paid a moving tribute to a ‘dedicated’ teacher who died after an attack in Crawley Down.

The community was shocked when Amy Appleton, 32, was found dead outside a property close to her home in Hazel Way, along with Sandy Seagrave, 76, of Kiln Road, on Sunday, December 22.

Amy taught Year 5 at Copthorne CE Junior School, where she had worked for more than eight years.

In a statement released today, the school’s head teacher Joanna Francis said: “Amy was one of our most loved and respected teachers who was dedicated to giving the best education to all her pupils.

“Her passion and enthusiasm, sense of fun and cheerful nature has made a huge impact on our entire school community but especially on the children at Copthorne CE Junior school and those who she taught during her time here.

“Amy will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with Amy and her family at this terrible time.”

A Book of Condolence remains open at St John’s Church, in Copthorne village and the church has its doors open during daylight hours for people to pay their respects.

The school’s statement follows tributes paid by family members.

Read more: Crawley Down victims named by police: ‘she was one of a kind’

Read more: Crawley Down murder investigation: Victim was ‘a rock to her family’

A 37-year-old man, found seriously injured at the scene, was arrested on suspicion of two counts of murder.

He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, where, police say, he remains but his condition continues to improve.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Friday, of the Surrey and Sussex major crime team, said: “I extend my deepest sympathies to the victims’ families, who continue to be supported by specialist trained officers. I would ask that people respect their privacy at this distressing time.”

Police continue to investigate the incident and say if anyone has any information they can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Deanland.

Alternatively, they can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Read more: Sussex rail fare rise slammed as a ‘slap in the face for commuters’

Read more: Horsham district residents receive awards in Queen’s New Year honours list

Read more: These roads are set to be closed in Horsham, Crawley, Mid Sussex and beyond in the new year

Police are seeking the identities of these three men wanted in connection to a phone theft in East Grinstead.

Sussex Police said a man entered a phone shop in London Road, East Grinstead, at around 5.30pm on Tuesday, November 5, last year, just as the store was closing and attempted to take a phone that was on display.

He was joined by a second man, police said, and the pair damaged the display table before taking an iPhone XR, worth almost £650.

The third man in the pictures stood in the doorway of the store, said police, and officers believe there was a fourth suspect outside the shop.

If anyone recognises either of these men or believe they can assist with the police investigation, please report it to Sussex Police online or call 101 quoting 1157 of 07/01.

READ MORE: Crawley Down murder investigation: School pays tribute to ‘loved and respected’ teacher

Love Island 2020 line-up includes another Sussex contestant

Murder arrest after stabbing in Sussex

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after 18-year-old Colin Oliver Wells, known as Ollie, died at a property in Elphick Road on Monday night (January 6). Sussex Police has since released an appeal for witnesses.

Ollie's family have now issued a tribute, which read: "Ollie was a much loved member of our family.

"He had autism and faced many challenges which left him vulnerable and he was often misunderstood by others.

"Due to his autism, Ollie had substantial needs which meant that over the last couple of years we were not able to care for him within the family home, however he was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by us all.

"We, the family, request that we be left alone to allow us time to process this devastating news.”

Police said officers were called to the junction of Elphick Road and Ship Street in Newhaven, at 11.30pm, after reports of a stabbing.

A spokesman said: "Despite efforts to save Ollie, of Elphick Road, he sadly died at the scene. A 16-year-old boy was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody for interview and further enquiries.

"A knife was recovered at the scene. Nobody else was injured."

Detective Inspector Simon Dunn of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said police are trying to 'establish the full circumstances' surrounding the 'tragic incident'.

He added: "It is already clear that the victim and his alleged assailant are known to each other and we are not currently looking for anyone else suspected of having been involved in the attack itself.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Ship Street and Elphick Road in the late evening and who may have witnessed an altercation between two individuals.

"Anyone who saw what happened, or who has any other information that they feel would help our enquiries is asked to contact us online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Tamworth."

"Ollie's family are being supported by our specially trained officers and have asked to be left to grieve privately."

Lewes District Inspector Ed Ripley said: "We are reassuring local residents that the investigation is contained to the location involved and that there is no danger to the wider community. Our officers are in the area to advise and assist anyone who has particular concerns on learning of this matter, or who has any information they want to pass on."

See also: Newhaven murder – Emergency response in pictures

Detectives are investigating reports of an incident involving people carrying knives in Crawley, according to Sussex Police.

Police said they are appealing for witnesses following a 'violent incident' on Ifield Parade shortly after 9pm on New Year's Day.

A spokesperson said: "The incident spread over onto Lady Margaret Road.

"Police found a man in his thirties injured at the scene. He was treated for injuries to his face and arm and did not require any further medical attention

"Four males, aged 25, 18, 17 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of affray and attempt to cause grievous bodily harm. They were interviewed and released under investigation."

Detective Constable Mark Buckley said police are 'actively seeking' anyone that witnessed what happened late on New Year's Day.

He added: "You may have been walking on those streets, in your house looking out of your windows or even driving by. You can report information anonymously if you wish – we just want to hear from you.

"Police are conducting extra patrols in the area and will continue to do so to provide reassurance”

Anyone with information is asked to report it to police online or call 101 quoting serial 1471 of 01/01

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers to report crime anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A revised soft sand strategy for West Sussex has been published and residents are encouraged to share their views

A new soft sand quarry has been allocated at Ham Farm near Steyning, while there are two extensions to existing sites at Chantry Lane near Storrington and West Heath near Rogate.

Once completed the joint strategy between West Sussex County Council and the South Downs National Park Authority will form part of the Joint Minerals Local Plan.

Stakeholders and members of the public are being asked for their representations on the soundness and legal and procedural compliance of the review, from today (Monday January 6) to Monday March 2.

Deborah Urquhart, the county council’s cabinet member for environment, said: “As a mineral planning authority, West Sussex County Council is required to plan for a steady and adequate supply of minerals, including soft sand.

“We have taken account of the comments that we received earlier this year on the issues and options, and I would now encourage people to take this opportunity to make their representations on the review.

“These representations will then be considered by an independent Planning Inspector at a examination before the review can be adopted.”

The review considers the need for soft sand during the period up to 2033, the supply strategy and the identification of potential extraction sites.

‘Soft sand’ (also known as ‘building sand’) is generally fine-grained, relatively soft textured, free-flowing in nature, and used in mortar.

Its properties are different to the ‘sharp sand’ extracted in the county, which is rough, angular, and used predominantly in concrete.

Tim Slaney, director of planning at the national park, said: “The revised strategy and its potential impact on the South Downs National Park have been carefully considered in the context of the national park’s purposes and duty and the Inspector’s comments on the Joint Minerals Local Plan.

“We welcome all comments received so far in this process and would now encourage people to have their say as the proposals enter the next phase of public consultation.”

To have your say visit the consultation website.

A hard copy response form, which can be found at deposit points and libraries county wide, or downloaded can be posted to Planning Services (Ref. SSR), West Sussex County Council, County Hall, Chichester, PO19 1RH.

Comments can also be emailed to mwdf@westsussex.gov.uk

Sussex Cricket have made their sixth signing of the close season - fast bowler Stuart Meaker from Surrey.

The right-arm seamer said: “I’m delighted to have joined Sussex ‘by the sea’. I’ve always admired their work ethic and values as a club from afar.

“I look forward to being able to contribute to an already supremely talented squad of players as well as a team with direction and desire to achieve success and silverware in the future.

“Having already played alongside a few of the players throughout the years, I feel like this could be a natural fit and an exciting new venture for me in the coming years. I can’t wait.”

Sussex head coach Jason Gillespie said: “I’m really excited that Stuart has agreed to join us. He gives us some real depth in our pace department and Stuart is very keen to show what he can do for Sussex.

“As someone who has played international cricket in the past, we know what Stuart is capable of. Everyone at Sussex is really looking forward to working with him and seeing him perform strongly for our club.”

After making his first team debut for the club in 2008, the 30-year-old took 348 wickets in 167 appearances for Surrey.

Meaker has four England caps having played two ODIs and two IT20s in 2011 and 2012. He has also played 17 times for England Lions across all formats, taking 28 wickets in total.

Hw is Sussex’s sixth signing of the winter as preparations for the 2020 season intensify. Ravi Bopara, Tom Clark, Mitch Claydon, Travis Head and Rashid Khan have all been added to the existing squad for this summer’s campaigns.

The departure of a former chief executive officer cost West Sussex County Council more than £300,000 in settlement and legal fees, it has been reported.

Nathan Elvery left County Hall ‘by mutual consent’ as the council put it – finally severing ties in November having been absent on full pay since September.

The council has repeatedly refused to say why he left his £190,000 per year post or how much he was given, citing confidentiality and legal reasons.

It was a situation that did nothing to boost the council’s reputation, which had taken a battering after hugely critical reports into its children’s services and fire & rescue services, followed by the resignation of then leader Louise Goldsmith, who hired Mr Elvery in 2016.

The BBC has now reported that a settlement of £265,000 was reached with Mr Elvery, while the council paid more than £35,000 for legal advice surrounding his departure.

When approached, the council again refused to confirm these figures.

Instead, a spokesman said: “A report into the council’s ability to improve children’s services highlighted a number of recommendations which needed addressing quickly and which we are now tackling.

“We fully accept the report and its recommendations.

“At that time we also made the decision to reach an agreement with the former chief executive as there was a need for a fresh start to address the challenges the council faced.

“We received external advice throughout the process and, specifically, on the terms of an agreed departure and the value to the council of resolving the matter quickly and moving forward.”

In December, it was announced that West Sussex would share a chief executive officer with East Sussex County Council in an attempt to improve the services it provided.

Becky Shaw took the reins of both councils this month, with the east acting as corporate improvement partner for the west.

A Sussex man who lives next door to where a fatal stabbing took place has described the moment he was woken up by ‘screaming and shouting’.

Jon Maxfield lives in Elphick Road, Newhaven, where an 18-year-old man was fatally stabbed on Monday night (January 6).

He has since been named by police as Colin Oliver Wells, known as Ollie. His family have issued a heartfelt tribute to him, describing him as ‘a much loved member of our family’.

Police arrested a 16-year-old boy at the scene on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody for interview and further enquiries.

Jon said he was woken up by noise but put it down to ‘two lads having a bit of a boisterous moment’.

“I heard screaming and shouting,” said the 36-year-old.

“I went back to sleep and then I heard a massive thud on the door.

“The next thing there was armed police at the door and that is when I realised the seriousness of it.”

Jon said he knew the victim well and that it was his 18th birthday only three weeks ago.

“We were all saying that none of us got to go for a beer with him. It is just really sad. It is a waste of life.”

He said he and his neighbours did not know what to think following the tragic incident.

“We all know eachother down this road,” he said, adding: “We can’t figure out what has gone on.”

Jon set up a fundraising page after an arson attack in his road in October last year.

Five parked vehicles were deliberately set on fire in the early hours of the morning. The flames spread to the frontages of nearby houses in which people were asleep.

“After them fires, and this, I don’t think I will be living here much longer,” he commented.

“I suffer with anxiety and this has made it worse.

“There was a stabbing in Newhaven in the summer and we all said the next one was going to be fatal.”

He added that the town needed a regeneration and that police needed to start clamping down on crime.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the stabbing, or who has any other information that may help them with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Simon Dunn of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said: “This is a tragic incident and we are working to establish the full circumstances. It is already clear that the victim and his alleged assailant are known to each other and we are not currently looking for anyone else suspected of having been involved in the attack itself.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Ship Street and Elphick Road in the late evening and who may have witnessed an altercation between two individuals.

“Anyone who saw what happened, or who has any other information that they feel would help our enquiries is asked to contact us online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Tamworth.”

“Ollie’s family are being supported by our specially trained officers and have asked to be left to grieve privately.”

Lewes District Inspector Ed Ripley said: “We are reassuring local residents that the investigation is contained to the location involved and that there is no danger to the wider community.

“Our officers are in the area to advise and assist anyone who has particular concerns on learning of this matter, or who has any information they want to pass on.”

A makeup artist who lives near Horsham has daubed the shocking scene of the Australia fires on herself in a bid to raise awareness of the country’s plight.

Southwater resident Ellie Murphy used makeup and body paint to draw an artwork depicting the blaze across her chest and face.

She said: “I’ve been to Australia. People are not taking it seriously enough.

“There wasn’t enough awareness. It made me really upset.”

Ellie, who runs Elligance Hair and Makeup, added that she wanted to use her skills to ‘showcase what is really going on’.

She said: “I just wanted to spread it out to as many people as possible.”

Ellie’s masterpiece took her around an hour to complete.

She added: “I just did it bit by bit looking in the mirror and just built it up.”

Ellie said she was inspired by fire and focused on eye-catching oranges and reds as the basis for her look.

Then she drew trees using black oil paint.

She added: “I added the koala and kangaroo freehand. My eye make up [is] just how I usually do it.”

But Ellie was overwhelmed by the response her artwork received online.

She said: “It’s amazing. So many people have shared it. I have had so many likes, so many comments. [But] I didn’t post it for the likes.”

Alongside the stunning photographs Ellie made a Facebook post urging people to raise awareness of the devastation which has ravaged Australia.

She said: “It brought a lot of emotion whilst creating this look.

“I wanted to show awareness to everyone on what an awful tragedy Australia is going through.”

Several people praised Ellie’s post, which was shared dozens of times.

One said: “You’re an incredible talent!”

Another added: “I’m lost for words.”

One Facebook user said: “A powerful image to make people stop and think.

“My thoughts are with all the people affected by this awful tragedy, and great respect to all those working tirelessly to bring it to an end you are incredible.

“Ellie you have an amazing talent.”

Another added: “Such a sad subject but amazing makeup to raise awareness of the tragedy unfolding in Australia.”

But Ellie is planning to continue raising awareness of important issues.

She said she hopes to do a photoshoot with models painted in a similar fashion and also choose other good causes to support in the future.

Ellie added: “I don’t want to just pick a charity. I want to learn about it first.

“I want something that I believe in.”

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She had given 14 years of loyal service to her childhood club Charlton but when the offer to go full-time at Tottenham came along, it was just too good to refuse.

The 24-year-old Kent-born forward joined the Addicks when she was nine and scored more than 200 goals for the club before Spurs came calling following their promotion to the Barclays FA Women’s Super League this season.

Tottenham were quick to announce their new signing on a free transfer, but Charlton were less than impressed with their dealings and immediately released a statement sharing their disappointment that the move had been allowed to go ahead with the forward still being under contract.

Midway through her debut top-flight season, Graham has let the drama wash over her – certain the decision was the right one to further her footballing career.

“I always wanted to gain promotion with Charlton, and we tried for a very long time, but it just didn’t happen,” said Graham.

“I have also always had a very good relationship with Spurs and I just felt it was the right time for me to move in terms of my progress rather than staying at the club [Charlton] for personal reasons.

“Having the opportunity to train week-in week-out as a day job is unreal and that definitely plays a major role in the increase in standard in the WSL.

“It is a massive lifestyle change for me now – before I used to work for a pharmaceutical company and juggle that with training which doesn’t allow you to rest and recover properly.”

Of course, a step up to the top flight doesn’t just mean changes off the pitch, with the increase in quality proving quite drastic for a player who has been used to scoring goals for fun in the past.

Her 16 goals last season were enough to earn her the FA Women’s Championship Players’ Player of the Year prize but were a far cry from the numbers she had been posting when the Addicks were a third-tier side – scoring 47 times in 35 games during the 2017/18 season.

But it’s points that are the main objective at this stage of her career as she aims to help Spurs to become a top-flight mainstay – although goals aren’t entirely off the menu either.

“I have adapted here a lot quicker than I thought I would do as well which has helped me but the players that are already here have helped me to do that", added Graham, who has already netted three times in eleven league games.

“When you make the step up you realise straight away that the standard is a lot better and where I am used to scoring 30 or more goals per season, I realise that is not realistic now.

“We have proved that we are more than capable of competing at this level and we have the players that can do that too so it’s just about learning more about each other.

“Any team in this league can win on their day so we have to make sure that we train well and do the jobs that are asked of us and we will keep picking up points that way.”

Sussex residents have reacted to a fatal stabbing, describing it as ‘shocking’ and ‘tragic’.

Colin Oliver Wells, known as Ollie, tragically died after being stabbed at a house in Elphick Road, Newhaven, on Monday night. He was just 18 years old.

His family have since issued a heartfelt tribute to him, describing him as ‘a much loved member of our family’.

Police arrested a 16-year-old boy at the scene on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody for interview and further enquiries.

In the wake of the stabbing, residents have taken to social media to share their grief and shock.

Amy Page said it was ‘shocking’ and ‘so sad for all’.

Susie Arlett said: “Very tragic, thoughts and prayers with family and friends.”

Carole Chick blamed a ‘lack of resources’ for rising levels of crime and violence in the town.

“Not so long-ago we had cars burnt out in Elphic Road. Although locals had a good idea who was responsible, police did nothing,” she said.

“There was escalating vandalism before that incident. Again, residents had a good idea who was responsible, but no action taken.

“Now, we have a murder in the same road. Why has Newhaven police station been closed? We don’t even have a PCSO to patrol our streets.

“We need our elected representatives to start fighting for adequate policing, before our town descends into anarchy, and we begin to take matters into our own hands.”

Gwen Knight praised the police and paramedics for their efforts, but said we did not have the manpower anymore to deal with or prevent such incidents.

“We’ve suffered masses of cuts to our services that sadly aren’t coming back no matter how many magic money trees, benefit reductions/tax increases we have,” she commented.

“I will say this though, the police they sent along with the paramedics were amazing and brave and did so very well despite being over worked and underpaid. We’re lucky to have them.”

A man who lives next door to where the fatal stabbing took place has described the moment he was woken up by ‘screaming and shouting’.

READ MORE: Newhaven stabbing: Neighbour woken up by ‘screaming and shouting’

The 36-year-old set up a fundraising page after an arson attack in the road in October last year.

Five parked vehicles were deliberately set on fire in the early hours of the morning. The flames spread to the frontages of nearby houses in which people were asleep.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the stabbing, or who has any other information that may help them with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Simon Dunn of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said: “This is a tragic incident and we are working to establish the full circumstances. It is already clear that the victim and his alleged assailant are known to each other and we are not currently looking for anyone else suspected of having been involved in the attack itself.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Ship Street and Elphick Road in the late evening and who may have witnessed an altercation between two individuals.

“Anyone who saw what happened, or who has any other information that they feel would help our enquiries is asked to contact us online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Tamworth.”

“Ollie’s family are being supported by our specially trained officers and have asked to be left to grieve privately.”

Lewes District Inspector Ed Ripley said: “We are reassuring local residents that the investigation is contained to the location involved and that there is no danger to the wider community.

“Our officers are in the area to advise and assist anyone who has particular concerns on learning of this matter, or who has any information they want to pass on.”

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of an 18-year-old man in Sussex.

Police said the teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, will appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (January 9).

Oliver Wells, 18, known as Ollie, tragically died after being stabbed at a house in Elphick Road, Newhaven, at the junction with Ship Street in Newhaven, at 11.30pm on Monday.

READ MORE: Newhaven stabbing: Residents react to ‘tragic’ death of 18-year-old

Newhaven stabbing: Neighbour woken up by ‘screaming and shouting’

Newhaven stabbing - Family pays tribute to ‘much loved’ teenager

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Four teenagers from Crawley were arrested following an assault in Brighton, and the victim died a few days later. Police would like to speak to these men in connection to what happened.

According to Sussex Police, an assault involving a group of men and 34-year-old Cameron Devlin occurred in North Street, Brighton, around 3.50am on Saturday, 21 December.

Cameron from Hove, suffered facial injuries and sadly died on Boxing Day, 26 December, police said.

Three 18-year-old men and a 19-year-old man all from Crawley were arrested on 21 December on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent, police said. They have been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Detectives continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the assault and whether the death of Cameron is linked to the injuries he had, a spokesman said.

This evening (January 8) police issued new CCTV from West Street at 3.47am on the day of the incident of a group of people they believe may hold vital information to the assault.

Investigating officer Detective Inspector Ian Still said: “We continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault in Brighton and whether this is linked to the death of Cameron.

“The new footage we have released is in the vicinity of the assault and this group of people may have witnessed the incident or seen Cameron before or after.

“If you recognise yourself or anyone in this footage, we urge you to make contact with us without delay.

“You can do this via our website or 101 quoting Operation Curve or by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

These are 10 of the best dog-friendly spas in the UK, that invite your dog on the grounds and in the rooms, according to SpaSeekers. Although they cannot join you in the spa itself, it’s a great opportunity for you and your canine friend to enjoy a break away together in an idyllic setting.

The 36-year-old kept three clean sheets in five league games, conceding only two goals over the month, as the Reds recorded three draws, a win and a loss in December.

And you can vote to crown Morris as December's stand out League Two player. To cast your vote for the long-serving goalkeeper please visit http://po.st/PFAVOTE

Voting starts at 11am, January 9 and closes at 8am, on January 10.

Morris has been nominated for the award alongside Crewe Alexandra's Daniel Powell, Swindon Town's Eoin Doyle, Salford City's Brandon Thomas-Asante, Bradford City's Anthony O'Connor and Colchester United's Harry Pell.

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