About Us
The Eastbourne Ashridge Circle was formed in 1947 by Mrs Helen Newman, an Eastbourne resident. She was inspired to do so by her pre-war studies at Ashridge College, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, an educational centre set up to provide courses to adults on ‘democratic citizenship’, covering economics and political and social science.
Our object is to promote good citizenship primarily in East Sussex through the holding of talks on a diverse range of subjects aimed at enhancing knowledge of the world past and present. We have no political affiliations and no bias towards any sectional interests. We are a registered charity No. 1201658.
Over the years the society has developed in scope and prestige. It has expanded its membership to around 1700, making it one of the largest lecture groups in the country. The talks are held in the comfort of the newly refurbished Congress Theatre, the largest theatre on the south coast.
The Eastbourne Ashridge Circle is independent and managed entirely by a committee of volunteers elected annually by members. Mutual friendliness and sociability are the Circle’s watchwords and formality is kept to a minimum. New volunteers are always welcome and can express their interest through our contact page.
Please take a read through our Constitution. You can also view our data protection policy here.
COMMITTEE 2026 – 2027
President
Jeni King
Chair
Melinda Stone
Vice-Chair
TBA
Treasurer
Paul Briant
Programme Secretary
Ashley Mitchell
Membership Secretary
Chief Steward
Sue Pellow
Secretary
Anita Dixon
Member
Alan Wenham
Member
Brian Waters MBE
Independent Examiner of Accounts
Brian Murphy