Stormy Seas and Safe Havens

A Sea Shanty Project

by the young writers of Little Green Pig Eastbourne Club

Annabelle, Bethany, Cemile, Charlie, Grace, Isla, Legashvi, Louisa, Meyra, Milo, Phoenix, Princess, Queenie, Raffy and Saira

Between May and July 2026, Little Green Pig’s Eastbourne after school club set sail on a journey to discover the fascinating history of the nearby coastline.

On a trip to Birling Gap they learned all about shipwrecks, lighthouses and local characters, as well as the natural history of the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs. They also visited Eastbourne RNLI where they heard tales of heroic rescues and the incredible bravery of local lifeboat crews.

These visits, along with their own wonderful imaginations, inspired the lyrics for their sea shanty The Smuggler’s Jig, created in writing sessions with Emma Joy Edwards and recorded, produced and mixed by musician, Joe Fleming.

Special thanks for all their help and support of this project go to Dave Morgan, Ranger, Dan Fagan, Lead Ranger and all the team at National Trust South Downs, and to Jane Blau of RNLI Eastbourne. Thanks also to all our brilliant Eastbourne story mentors and to all the team at Little Green Pig.

This project was made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England, Sussex Community Foundation, Chalk Cliff Trust, the Gemini Foundation, the John Jackson Charitable Trust, the Enjoolata Foundation and the Big Give pledgers, donors and champion, the AIKO foundation.