The Area and how it is managed
Sussex Area is run by a Council made up of one representative from each of the member clubs. The day to day Area management is delegated to the Executive Committee, comprising the Area Chairman, Area Vice Chairman, Area Treasurer, Area Secretary, together with the chairman of Judges, Demonstrators, Speakers and Education (JDS&E) committee, Media, Ticket and Programme Administrators. Various administrative positions (Publications, Flower Arranger, Newsletter Editor and Website) are appointed.
The Council meets 4 times a year either physically or by Zoom. The Area organises several members’ days each year as well as competitions and shows.
The Area Chairman attends regular National Advisory meetings with the NAFAS Board and chairmen of the other Areas. In addition, Area representatives attend similar National Committee meetings for judges, demonstrators, speakers, education, publications and media creating a useful two-way exchange of ideas throughout the Areas.
Past Presidents
The position of President recognises the commitment, involvement and support members have given to the Sussex Area over the years. They are essential to the running of the Area and do not necessarily have to have held an Executive position to be appointed, but have assisted the Area in other ways.
Ruth Collingridge
Area President
Ruth has been an active member of Crowborough Flower Club for the past 40 years. She has been a tutor in crafts and flower arranging for the last 30 years. She enjoys competitive work, gardening, cooking, needlework/crafts and reading. Her greatest pleasure is spending time with her 3 grandchildren.
No appointment until 2025
Area Vice President
Jose Allen
Area Life Vice President
Jose has been involved with NAFAS for many years. She was National Chairman 1983-1985, National Demonstrator and Adjudicator, National Judge. Was the Chairman Nat. Festival & Competitions (Flight of Fancy) 1978 and National Show Consultant 1980-1983. She served on National Judges Committee late 1990s. WAFA was formed when she was Vice Chairman and the first Show was held in Bath (1984) when she was Chairman. She was Sussex Area Chairman 1976 to 1979 and holds both a National Associate of Honour and a Sussex Award of Merit.
Past Presidents (from 2000)
Sue Seath (2022 - 2023
Jean Plaskett (2017 - 2022)
Colette Archer (2014 – 2017)
Pam Gibson (2011 - 2014)
Barbara Harris (2008 - 2011)
Margaret Dunkerton (2005 - 2008)
Anne Lee (2002 - 2005)
Joyce Hogan (2000 - 2002)
Area Chairmen (from 2000)
Gaenor Circus 2022 -
Jilly Griffin (2019 - 2022)
Angie Hyde (2016 - 2019)
Doreen Nuttall (2013 - 2016)
Jean Plaskett (2010 - 2013)
Pam Gibson (2007 - 2010)
Elsie Chaplin (2005 - 2007)
Sue Flight (2005)
Brenda Forrester (2002 - 2005)
Barbara Harris (1999 - 2002)