It seems the right time to say a big thank you to all those people and organisations who have donated new seats to Parks and Gardens. The past 12 months have seen the arrival of 16 seats spread throughout several parks.

The latest addition was donated by friends and supporters of the founder of ELAC Study Vacations.

Seats can be donated for a variety of reasons, perhaps in memory of someone or to celebrate something too. Follow the page link to find out more.

A rusty autumn

Damp autumn mornings have led to an increase in the amount of grass or lawn rust on some of our lawns and playing fields.

Rust is caused by a fungal infection that likes the mild damp conditions and often flourishes at this time of year. It makes grass areas look brown and dusty. The dust is the fungal spores and these may temporarily discolour your shoes and paws of pets.

Grass rust is generally considered harmless but might occasionally have a respiratory affect. To keep your pets clean there will usually be nearby areas of grass that are less rusty. Colder winter nights will end the outbreak and the grass will recover in the spring.

The Royal Horticultural Society and other websites have further information.

Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge

As part of the celebration of Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee next year several public open spaces in Eastbourne have been protected in perpetuity through Deeds of Dedication.

Fields in Trust (FIT), formerly the National Playing Fields Association, are administering the project through agreement with local councils throughout the country.