Originally created to launch larger denominations of the Lewes Pound, this celebration of all good things local was so popular that we ran it three times. The whole event brought together local traders, growers, craftspeople, artists, musicians, schoolchildren and it was terrific fun.

Project started: June 2009, Dec 2009 and June 2010
Contact: Chris Smedley

The Paddock Singers (above) celebrating the launch of the new Lewes Pound. Lyrics by Sarah Earl.

The Do was put together by a group of people who felt that Transition Town Lewes should be creating events that were more inclusive, more creative and more fun. Initially it was planned around the larger denominations of the Lewes Pound, and Harveys brewery offered to lend us their beautiful empty warehouse near Lewes Station. At the first do, we collaborated with Furniture Now, who brought along a van-full of sofas, chairs and tables; Starfish whose youth band brought cheer to the scene; local producers who sold their wares; Ben’s the butcher who created a hog roast; Harvey’s who provided beer and other drinks; Matthew Bird from the Sustainability team of Lewes District Council who showed films; (poet, music workshops etc) and many more. As we unveiled posters of the new enominations a great cheer went up.

The following year, we put on two more Dos. We had to move the last one to All Saints because being a winter-time event made electricity supply to Harveys Depot virtually impossible. At the Do at All Saints we launched the SwopShop (link) and people were able to sign up to the website in real time. Our parties helped the local traders, helped make Transition Town Lewes more bonded within the community, and was thoroughly enjoyable.