JANUARY 2024 | ISSUE 29
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR HAILSHAM, POLEGATE, HELLINGLY & SURROUNDING AREAS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE...
FRAUDSTER AVOIDS JAIL PAGE 4
LOCAL NEWS • EVENTS • FEATURES • MOTORING • SPORT
CATTLE MARKET PLANS WITHDRAWN PAGE 11
INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR
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NEW DOOR-TO-DOOR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY SERVICE PAGE 21
RESIDENTS SLAM POSTAL DELAYS
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2 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
EDITOR’S WELCOME
Here we are in a brand new year, and it almost feels like the last twelve months disappeared in a blink. I hope you all managed to get some time with family and friends or simply just got some downtime over the past few weeks to relax in preparation for 2024. Here at Hailsham News Towers, I managed to get a week off to reflect on the busy year just gone and start putting some thought into what’s going to happen over the next twelve months. We’ve got some really exciting plans, which are no real secret, but we will be expanding our business into two new towns this year in East Sussex. Due to the amazing support from readers and advertisers, we’ve managed to grow the company to a six-strong team which allows for our expansion. Since we started Hailsham News in 2021, other towns have commented on how they’d love a truly local newspaper, so we’re doing just that. You’ll have to wait a couple more months until we announce what town is next, but I can assure you, our team are dedicated to continue supplying Hailsham with the latest news and stories via this newspaper and our website. Paul Gibson, Group Editor.
THE TEAM
PAUL GIBSON – GROUP EDITOR paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk KIM MAYO – REGIONAL EDITOR kim@regionalmediagroup.co.uk LYLE ACOTT – ADVERTISING SALES sales@regionalmediagroup.co.uk VIKTORIA COWLEY – FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS viktoria@regionalmediagroup.co.uk MIKE LEGG – SPORTS REPORTER sports@regionalmediagroup.co.uk DEAN COOK – DESIGN AND PRODUCTION design@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
READ ME, SHARE ME, THEN RECYCLE ME! Hailsham News is a publication by Regional Media Group Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales number: 13746177. We have taken care to ensure that the information in this newspaper is correct. Neither the publisher, nor contributors can take responsibility for loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions. Hailsham News does not endorse the accuracy of the advertisements or the quality of the products/services being advertised. Information provided by businesses and community organisations are provided directly by their own representatives; please direct any queries or comments regarding content directly to the organisation. Any opinion or views expressed within this publication are solely those of the author. © 2024: No part of this newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole without express permission of the editor.
ROYAL MAIL ASSURES RESIDENTS SERVICES WILL RECOVER THANKS TO ‘ADDITIONAL RESOURCES’
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N urgent meeting has taken place with Royal Mail Senior Representatives to tackle serious delays in the town’s postal system. Wealden MP, Nusrat Ghani, raised concerns and sought assurances during the meeting that services will improve. Some Hailsham residents reported having no post for a fortnight which has become a nationwide problem. Hospital appointments and urgent bills are being missed due to the delays, according to residents who turned to social media to complain about a lack of deliveries across the town over the last few months. Royal Mail has confirmed that over 16,000 additional seasonal workers were being recruited to help with an increased volume of post in the run-up to Christmas and that additional resources were being redirected to Hailsham to recover service levels in the area. One homeowner said they were getting one
delivery about every eight days in central Hailsham, whilst others raised concerns that they were told to collect their post from the sorting office in North Street which is only open a few hours a day. Nusrat Ghani said: “I recognise the importance of a prompt and reliable postal service and I was appalled by reports of severe delays in receiving postal deliveries experienced by some Hailsham households. “Having already made written representations to raise individual cases of residents, I stressed these concerns at a meeting with Senior Royal Mail representatives and demanded assurances that there is a clear plan in place to urgently improve the frequency and reliability of postal service for all constituents across Wealden. “I understand that the delivery delays have been caused by high levels of staff sickness and absences and I was pleased to secure commitments that resources are being redirected
to Hailsham to recover service levels and restore consistent and reliable service ahead of Christmas. “I understand that all mail is being collected as normal and additional resources will also be deployed to help with deliveries into the new year.” Another resident said on Facebook: “It’s a joke. I needed a new government password. 3-4 days to get it and only lasts 21 days. Posted 23 November got it 12 Dec.” In frustration, another commented: “Today we received 21 items, some post-dated nearly two weeks ago. Some items bills with final reminders. Could we hold the post office liable if credit rating is affected I wonder?” Ofcom has issued Royal Mail with a fine of £5.6m after failing to reach its delivery targets in the 2022/23 financial year. During that time Royal Mail delivered 73.7% of First-Class mail on time, and 90.7% of Second-Class mail on time.
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4 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
FRAUDSTER AVOIDS JAIL FOLLOWING £100K THEFT FROM MI CLUB A
FORMER employee of the Hailsham Memorial Institute Club who stole more than £100,000 from the venue appeared in court recently has received a 24-month prison sentence, suspended for 24 months. 64-year-old Jeanette Gardner appeared at Chichester Crown Court to be sentenced following her conviction in October. She was appointed the paid role of administrator in 2006 and engineered absolute financial control of the club. However, in 2019, club members became concerned about Gardner’s actions when they failed to receive confirmation of receipt of funds raised at a ‘Full Monty’ charity event held by HMI in aid of Orchid Cancer Charity. After an internal investigation conducted by HMI, Gardner was dismissed from her role in August 2019. The matter was then reported to Sussex Police. A three-year investigation ensued, which uncovered large-scale frauds, thefts and abuse of position offences. The investigation found Gardner had stolen from HMI and made fraudulent claims against the club. These included falsifying her employment contracts to pay herself a higher salary, giving herself pay rises without authorisation, withholding payments to HMRC, false accounting and laundering £26,000 of the stolen money out of the country to India. She falsified weekly accounts to steal cash from the social club and would often include personal
purchases in receipts claimed back from the club. Payments were also received into her bank account for events and services provided by HMI. Gardner failed to pass on money raised at HMI fundraising events to charities, including approximately £3,000 to the male cancer charity Orchid. During the investigation, Gardner also brazenly made fraudulent claims for Universal Credit, which were uncovered by police. Her trial began on 18 September 2023 at Hove Crown Court. During the trial, she pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position but maintained her innocence in relation to all the other charges. On Friday, 20 October, Gardner was found guilty of eight of the 11 charges against her – four counts of fraud by abuse of position, fraud by false representation, theft, transferring criminal property, and fraud by failing to disclose information. She was found not guilty of three charges – two counts of fraud by abuse of position and one count of theft.
Jeanette Gardner arriving at Chichester Crown Court
‘HERO’ JACK’S FORMER POLICE OFFICER FUNERAL CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTING TAKES PLACE ONLINE SEXUAL
COMMUNICATION WITH A CHILD
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The funeral of 24 year-old Jack Field, who was murdered in Hailsham in November, has taken place at the Wealden Crematorium. There was a ‘massive turnout’ according to Jack’s friends at the ceremony which happened on 20th December. Jack died when he was hit by a car on Western Road, Kyle Dumble, 26, has been remanded in custody after appearing in court accused of murder. His family said: “Jack was the most selfless, respectful gentleman who would do anything for anyone and always putting others before himself. He was everyone’s best friend, role model and hero.”
n East Sussex man has been convicted of attempted sexual communication with a child online. Following a three-day trial from Monday 18 December at Guildford Crown Court, Damien Gibbons, formerly known as Damien Cotgreave, 48, of High Street, Hailsham, was found guilty of attempted online sexual communication with a child. At the time of his arrest in February 2020 for this offence, he was a Sussex Police officer. He was later charged with the offence in the name of Cotgreave in April 2021. He was given a one-year suspended prison sentence and a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) which severely restricts his access to children and computers. The prosecution, authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service, followed an investigation by the Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) of Sussex Police which began when information was received from a member of the public in February 2020. POLIT crime investigator Michelle Shepherd said: “Cotgreave thought he was talking to a 13-year old girl, and engaged in very explicit sexual conversation, but he was in fact talking to an adult member of the public who reported their concerns to the police, and we immediately took action to arrest him and ensure no actual child could come to harm. “We will always take action on such reports and anyone who has suspicions about this type of activity should contact the police immediately.” At the time of his arrest in February 2020, Cotgreave was a Detective Constable in Sussex Police but was suspended when
he was arrested. At a separate public misconduct hearing in January 2021, he was found to have committed multiple breaches of professional standards, on evidence separate to this current prosecution, and he would have been dismissed from the force had he not already resigned. As a result of this finding, he has been placed on the College of Policing Barred and Advisory list which will prevent his re-entry into law enforcement. The internal disciplinary investigation culminating in the misconduct hearing, resulted from information that came to light during this criminal investigation by POLIT. Deputy Chief Constable David McLaren said: “The behaviour of this officer was appalling and inexcusable and a violation of the trust that the public put in the police to serve and protect them. “We are committed to tackling criminal, misconduct and inappropriate behaviour within policing. Criminal behaviour, misconduct and misogyny have no place in Sussex Police and we will continue our journey to root this out.”
6 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
APPEAL SCHOOLBOYS SHAVE HEADS POLICE INFORMATION TO HELP CHILDREN AFFECTED FOR FOLLOWING BY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE POUNDLAND RAID
The boys before the challenge
T
8-year-old Oakley
WO brothers from Hailsham have faced school recently with shaven heads as part of their fundraising campaign to help raise money for children who are facing this Christmas in local refuges. Daniel MacDiarmid, known as Shrimpy, age 15, has been raising money to buy Christmas presents for children’s charities since he was just 5 years old. With less time to spend this year on fundraising due to studying for his GCSEs, he persuaded his younger brother, Oakley, age 8, to join on his mission with both children facing their last days of the school term with bald heads. The boys who go to school at Lewes Old Grammar School and Plumpton Primary School had their heads shaved after school at a barber’s in Hailsham last month. “Anyone who knows us will know we like our hair,” said Daniel. “I never thought that I would be shaving my hair off and having to walk into school bald as well as freezing, but we both want to
Daniel MacDiarmid
raise as much money as possible for toys for these children. It was actually Oakley’s idea to do this challenge. It’s such an amazing cause, and we just want to help put smiles on the children’s faces”. The charity that the children are supporting is KidsOut which supports mother and child refugees locally where the children both live and go to school. Typically leaving their homes with no more than the clothes they are wearing, the children have experienced physical, emotional and even sexual abuse. KidsOut provides toys, gifts and fun days out for these children who arrive in refuge often traumatised. The brothers will be buying toys for the children with the money they raise in time for Christmas. Any money raised after Christmas will go towards providing toys and fun days out for the children throughout the year. To donate, scan QR code or visit: https://bit.ly/shrimpandseedgobald
d l o c e h t m o r f Come in me o c l e w y l d n e i r for a f is more than books ry Your local libra verLibraries o c is D / k .u v o eastsussex.g
POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a burglary at Poundland in Hailsham. The incident is believed to have taken place on Sunday, 10 December, between 5.30pm and 7.30pm at the store in the Quintins Shopping Centre, North Street. The suspects are believed to have gained entry via damage caused to the roof of the building. If you have any information or witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area, report it online or call 101 quoting 230 of 11/12.
NEWS 7
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
PARKS AND OPEN SPACES TO GET NEW YEAR IMPROVEMENTS
Hailsham Active utillises valuable space at the Western Road Recreation Ground
H
ailsham Town Council has confirmed it will be taking further steps to enhance its parks and public open spaces over the course of the next few months. Following discussions about the Town Council’s Assets Plan for the future, recent findings gathered as part of the ‘Health Parks’ project’ have been considered, which the Town Council agreed to participate in, designed to give suggestions for improvements to parks and open spaces and maximise community benefit from such spaces in terms of health and well-being. The Health Parks project report focused on current facilities
available at three key sites — the Western Road Recreation Ground, Maurice Thornton Playing Field and Hailsham Country Park — as well as potential features which could be available and promotion of those activities both currently and potentially in the future. Suggested projects include the replacement of outdoor gym equipment at the Western Road Recreation Ground (to be carried out next year); new peripheral pathways, shaded seating areas and a zip wire facility at the Maurice Thornton Play Field site (the latter having recently been completed); and increased parking,
MOVIES, SHOWS AND FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT THE HAILSHAM PAVILION THE GREAT ESCAPER
3-4 JANUARY - 14:15 & 19:30 On the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings — octogenarian Bernie Jordan made global headlines. He’d staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy. He captured the imagination of the world.
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5 FEBRUARY - 14:30 In a Nottingham factory, Arthur Seaton works in a mindless haze, but his weekends are even more muddled due to his love affairs and his alcohol problem.
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PADDINGTON
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12 FEBRUARY - 11:00 After a deadly earthquake destroys his home in Peruvian rainforest, a young bear makes his way to England in search of a new home. The bear, dubbed “Paddington” finds shelter with the family of Henry and Mary Brown.
19 FEBRUARY - 14:30 Lovable Englishman Charles and his group of friends seem to be unlucky in love. When Charles meets a beautiful American named Carrie at a wedding, he thinks his luck may have changed.
15 JANUARY - 14:30 Fleet-footed Colin Smith (Tom Courtenay) is a rebellious teenager in the poverty-stricken town of Nottingham, in northern England, who enjoys running as an escape from his harsh reality.
29 JANUARY - 14:30 This sweeping English drama, based on the book by Ian McEwan, follows the lives of young lovers who are torn apart by a lie constructed by Cecilia’s jealous younger sister, Briony. All three of them must deal with the consequences.
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additional seating and the creation of a picnic area and fitness trail proposed at Hailsham Country Park. Additional informational signage at each of the three sites will be installed in the coming months as advised, and the development of the Town Council’s website has reflected this with the inclusion of a dedicated web page focused on leisure facilities in the town — including links to organisations practising sports and promoting health and fitness. Explaining the rationale behind the decision to carry out the recent and proposed future improvements to Town Councilmaintained parks and open spaces, Town Clerk John Harrison said: “We agreed to participate in the Health Parks project, which is designed to maximise community benefit from green spaces in terms of health, fitness and well-being. The purpose of this document is not to analyse that process but to pull out the salient points and present them, showing where there is potential for asset development to the benefit of the local population.” “From the findings received through the Health Parks review/survey, it can be seen that the science is to compare features or facilities in green areas to potential health benefits. Each location is assessed not only with the physical facilities that it has, but also the activities that take place there, and how these can be accessed and made known to people.” Mr Harrison added: “It goes without saying that parks and green spaces provide a variety of health benefits by promoting physical activity, connection to nature and opportunities for community engagement. Furthermore, they create environments that not only support active lifestyles but improve access to exercise opportunities into the bargain.” The recent installation of information signs at the Western Road Recreation Ground and forthcoming placement of signage at the Maurice Thornton Playing Field and Halsham Country Park is just the beginning of a separate campaign to introduce further exterior signage at Town Council-maintained parks and open spaces next year. Other sites where signs will be installed include the Common Pond, allotment sites, children’s play areas, Orchard Park and Hailsham Cemetery.
8 JANUARY - 14:30 Up-and-coming Houston oil executive “Mac” MacIntyre (Peter Riegert) gets more than he bargained for when a seemingly simple business trip to Scotland changes his outlook on life.
RELAXED INCLUSIVE SCREENING
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18 JANUARY - 10:30 “Napoleon” is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix.
WONKA
6-14 JANUARY - 14:15 & 19:30 Based on the extraordinary character at the center of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT CINDERELLA PANTOMINE 24-28 JANUARY - 11:00, 15:00 & 19:00
Join Cinders as she transforms from rags to riches, outwits her very Wicked Stepsisters and with the help of a friend and two very magical Fairy Godmothers, meets her Prince Charming.
A SPECIAL EVENING OF MEDIUMSHIP WITH MARTIN HOPGOOD 22 FEBRUARY - 19:30
Martin brings a new exciting and refreshing change to Psychic Mediumship, with a no-nonsense but compassionate approach to his work which has earned him a huge following wherever he demonstrates his work. He forever strives to prove our spirit is eternal.
NT LIVE – DEAR ENGLAND 1 FEBURARY - 19:30
Joseph Fiennes plays Gareth Southgate in James Graham’s gripping examination of nation and game. The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. With the worst track record for penalties in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt. Tickets – £15 & £13
ALL MATINEES SCREENINGS AND ALL DAY SUNDAY SCREENINGS - £6.50 / EVENING SCREENINGS - ADULTS - £9 CONCESSIONS - £7
8 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
DEVELOPER SUSSEX’S ONLY BIG TOP CIRCUS HELPS FUND NEW OUTDOOR STORAGE SCHOOL GAINS BTEC ACCREDITATION FOR PRE-SCHOOL
Katy Fisher, sales advisor at Liberty Place stood alongside Sarah Lane, Union Corner Pre-school manager
T
he housebuilder, Vistry Group, which is building new homes off Marshfoot Lane in Hailsham has donated £500 to Union Corner Pre-School. The pre-school, which provides daycare for two, three and fouryear-olds, approached Vistry for help because its old shed was damaged and needed replacing. The installation of the new shed, purchased with help from Vistry’s donation, means all the pre-school’s bikes can be stored safely ready for children to use during outdoor play. Sarah Lane, pre-school manager, said: “As we are a charity, we rely on donations like the one Vistry has given to make improvements to the preschool, so this is why we are very grateful to Vistry. “The Vistry team was very helpful and friendly throughout the whole process.” Candice McCabe, marketing manager for Vistry Kent, said: “Part of our commitment to local communities where we are building new homes is to support groups and organisations which play an important role within the local area. “Our donation to Union Corner Pre-School has been made as part of that commitment and we are pleased to be able to help make a difference.”
Sussex’s only Big Top circus school, the Hailsham-based East Sussex School of Circus Arts (ESSCA), which runs a wide variety of training courses covering all key circus performance skills, has announced it is the first school or college in the South East of England offering a BTEC Level 3 Qualification in Circus and Performing Arts. The announcement followed the 2023 ESSCA Graduation Showcase, where the graduating students put on a circus spectacular. They performed a wide range of circus skills including Clowning, Juggling, Acrobatics. Aerials and Equilibriums — for not only the audience, but for an esteemed Judging Panel. Members of the Judging Panel were Actor and TV Presenter, Mark Bento, The Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Paul Holbrook, Producer, Artistic Director, Choreographer and Founder of TSE Creative Productions, John Thompson, Entrepreneur, TV regular, Writer and Founder of The Proud Group, Alex Proud and Show Director, Producer, Burlesque Performer and Costumier at Proud Cabaret, Jessica Talbot-Smith. Renato Pires, Founder and Owner of ESSCA shared the exciting news at the School’s annual Graduation Showcase. “We thought our Graduation Showcase would be the ideal time to announce our wonderful news. After four years of hard work, our
dreams have come true. From February next year, ESSCA will be the only educational establishment in the South East of England to offer students the opportunity to study for a BTEC Level 3 qualification in Circus and Performing Arts.” A BTEC is a vocational qualification which tends to be work-related. Renato added: “They are ideal for any student who prefers a more practical-based learning, which is a perfect fit for students who are interested in
Circus and Performing Arts.” He concluded: “A massive thank you to Knockhatch Adventure Park for their continued support over the years; we couldn’t do this without them. A special thank you also goes to all our Staff, Teachers, Students, Trustees and Parents for their continued support and dedication to ESSCA. Next year is going to be an exciting one and everyone at the School is looking forward to everything that it brings.”
EVENTS AT WOODSIDE HALL PROUD TO SUPPORT ST WILFRID’S HOSPICE
Independent Nursing Home Professional Nursing care - Beautiful surroundings
Woodside Hall specialises in 24hr complex care; we pride ourselves on our friendly homely atmosphere We have a dedicated GP surgery who visit our residents weekly The service provides specialist areas of care: Palliative/End of life care Rehabilitation following hospital admission Dementia care Our primary focus is hollistic care You can enjoy home cooked meals prepared daily by our chefs.
Inspected on 31st January 2023
WHY NOT COME ALONG AND VIEW OUR HOME AND MEET OUR TEAM?
Polegate Road, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3PQ
www.woodsidehall.co.uk 01323 841670 info@woodsidehall.co.uk
THIS JANUARY
WEDNESDAY, 10TH JANUARY AT 11AM Sian from G-Fitness. G-fitness visits fortnightly on a Wednesday at 11am – G-fitness is the UK’s leading provider of professional exercise classes to people living in care, older adults, and people with disabilities SATURDAY, 13TH JANUARY AT 2.30PM Rick Bonner Show – Rock and Roll, 60s, 70’s, 80s and more TUESDAY, 16TH JANUARY AT 2PM Visit from Rosie the little grey pony. Rosie will be visiting woodside Hall to visit our residents, Rosie is a Falabella horse and is training to be a therapy pony THURSDAY, 18TH JANUARY AT 2.30PM Guy Sunshine multi vocal specialist singer FRIDAY, 19TH JANUARY AT 11AM Community Coffee Morning – residents from within the local community will have a chance and chat over tea or coffee and homemade cakes. Guests will have a chance to see our home and ask any questions they might have about care.
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
JANUARY 2024
UPDATE FROM WEALDEN MP H BY NUSRAT GHANI MP
appy New Year! I hope that you had a chance to relax and refresh over the festive period and are ready to fully embrace 2024. Winter is a beautiful time in Wealden, especially with a bit of frost in the morning, making everything sparkle. However, in the shadows of all the socialising and festivities enjoyed in December, January can seem very different and bring feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can weigh heavily on our mental health. It is often the simple steps such as a chat with a family member, friend or neighbour that can make a world of difference but please know that there is further support available in all corners of Wealden and don’t be afraid to reach out if you need it. I’m pleased to be working with several fantastic local charities who provide support in a variety of ways, making an enormous contribution to our communities and helping hundreds of Wealden residents along the way. To name just a few, Wayfinder Woman is a female-run, volunteer-led charity operating in Wealden and across East Sussex, which helps women build self-confidence and skill sets through free, grantfunded workshops, training, coaching, online support and drop-in advice hub, which provides a safe space for women. Equally, MAYFACS are an amazing resource, providing a huge range of support, including activities for residents of all ages as well as help with transport locally. In Wadhurst, the wonderful Carillon Cottage is an invaluable community hub, offering advice, support and services for every age group and
Nusrat Ghani with the Hailsham Citizens Advice team
in Hailsham, the Wealden Citizens Advice team are a fantastic source of free, confidential and impartial advice. I’m also pleased to be supporting the Mayfield and Uckfield Sheds, which are great projects offering a supportive and creative opportunity to share skills to repair or upcycle items that can be reused by the community while helping to tackle loneliness and isolation. Similarly, Crowborough’s Artytime, which is a not-forprofit community group run by volunteers, brings arts and crafts to residents of all ages and abilities. I continue supporting its exciting plans to create a new hub in the Jarvis Brook area, and I hope that we can see some more progress this year. I’m incredibly grateful for all the work that our charities and their volunteers are doing, and I look forward to continuing to support them in 2024.
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NEWS 9
LOCAL BUSINESSES LEND SUPPORT TO CRICKET CLUB
Hailsham Cricket Club has announced the names of the sponsors who have renewed or joined as partners ahead of the 2024 season. The support and advice given by these local companies are vital in allowing the club to progress both on and off the pitch. The sponsorship agreements range from clothing, social media, equipment and signage. Director of Cricket Rob Wilkinson said: “It is a proud moment for the club to partner with so many excellent local businesses. As a community Cricket club, the relationships we have with local companies are massively important to what we set out to do. I am excited to work closely with them all and see where we can take the partnership in the coming years”. There are still a few options remaining for companies to join the club as a partner, and they would love to hear from any interested businesses.
10 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
NEW YEAR MESSAGE TO RESIDENTS FROM HAILSHAM MAYOR, PAUL HOLBROOK
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
SOUTHERN WATER ANSWERS QUESTIONS ON LOCAL FLOODING ISSUES
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MEETING has been held recently with representatives from Hellingly Parish Council, Wealden District Council and East Sussex County Council including Highways to hold Southern Water to account for their ongoing failures to address and prevent issues with flooding in Hellingly. MP for Wealden, Nus Ghani attended the talks and has been intensely involved in a series of meetings with local authorities and Southern Water representatives to address the ongoing issues with flooding and sewage overspills that Hellingly residents experience during periods of heavy rainfall. This autumn’s wet weather has caused the issues to reoccur and given the severity of the incidents, this meeting presented an opportunity to discuss plans and priorities for upgrading the infrastructure including the capacity of the pumping station. Southern Water advised that a connectivity study of several hundred households in Hellingly
has been conducted earlier in the year. Results are currently being analysed and expected to be presented to all stakeholders at a further meeting in the new year. Nusrat Ghani said: “It is regrettable that there has been little progress since the major incident in January to address the causes of the flooding and sewage overspills. This is a multi-agency issue, and I am appalled that the Environment Agency yet again failed to attend this meeting and answer questions about water overspill. Some progress made by Southern Water with regards to the connectivity study is welcome, but it is clear that more needs to be done to address the issue and we need Southern Water to do better and prioritise Hellingly for infrastructure upgrades. I would like to thank Hellingly Parish Council representatives Jenny Hoodless and Cllr David White for their tireless work on the matter and I will continue working with them to push for better performance from Southern Water.”
SCHOOL PUPILS RECREATE THE GREAT FIRE OF LONDON
Mayor Paul Holbrook
I hope that you had a pleasant Christmas break with your families and loved ones. I’d like to take the opportunity first to say that, while many of us are still feeling the bite of the costof-living crisis, we have now entered a new year and should take a positive outlook and think about what improvements it can bring to our lives. 2024 is upon us and the New Year traditionally denotes a new start – an opportunity to begin afresh and strive to do even better. For me personally, this is an exciting time, as I look forward with expectancy and anticipation to what this next year has to offer our wonderful town. I am looking forward to the remaining five months in my current term of office as Town Mayor. I feel honoured to serve and represent the people of Hailsham and look forward to getting out and about and meeting as many of you as I can at future civic engagements. I will continue to visit as many places and people as possible to raise the profile of local charities, community groups and voluntary organisations in Hailsham, who work selflessly to help others and make individuals’ lives just that much better and brighter. I am sure that the warm-hearted and
generous people of our town will continue to come together and support those most in need during 2024. The Town Council is currently working towards making its frontline operations as efficient as possible. Like many town and parish councils across the country, we are committed to providing value for money. We all know times are tough, and in the coming year we may face some difficult decisions on how to balance providing essential quality services with ever-decreasing budgets. The way the Town Council operates will continue to transform. However, whatever the future holds, I can guarantee the residents this. My New Year’s resolution - and the Town Council’s - is to have a renewed determination to work hard for the residents and the wider community of Hailsham. My wife and fellow town councillor Barbara and I wish you all a very happy, healthy and peaceful New Year. Whatever your aspirations may be, go forward with determination and you will be rewarded for your own efforts in 2024. Cllr Paul Holbrook Town Mayor & Chairman, Hailsham Town Council
YOUNGSTERS at Grovelands Primary School celebrated their ‘end -of-topic’ by watching their work go up in flames recently. It was all under control of course as members from Hailsham Fire Station helped the children reenact The Great Fire of London by setting fire to their homemade Tudor Houses. The pupils from Year 2 were said to have had a wonderful time watching the firemen attempt to put out the fire with water squirters like they would have tried to do in 1666! Headteacher at Grovelands School, Jon Goulding, said: “The children had such a great time. They said it was ‘the best day ever!’. A big thank you to the Hailsham fire crew and all the good work they do for the community”
FIREFIGHTERS TACKLE HUGE BLAZE AT MOTORHOME SHOWROOM NEAR HAILSHAM
F
IRE Crews from across the county tackled a large fire at the Marquis Showroom at Golden Cross, which has closed the main A22 last month. East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called at 2.24pm on 2 December to an industrial building fire in Chiddingly. Eight fire engines were sent to the scene and crews used three main jets and firefighting foam to tackle the fire at the dealership. Members of the public were are asked to avoid
the area and local residents to keep windows and doors closed. Sussex Police put road closures in place on the A22 and in surrounding roads including Charlington Way, Coldharbour Road, Camberlot Road, Nash Street, and Burgh Hill Road. They remained in place while the fire service dealt with the fire. The business has been closed since the fire which destroyed a majority of the building. It’s believed most of the vehicles for sale were not damaged during the blaze.
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
NEWS 11
JANUARY 2024
PLANS FOR NEW CATTLE MARKET AND SITE DEVELOPMENT WITHDRAWN
The site of the proposed cattle market with Bushy Wood on the right
EXCLUSIVE REPORT BY PAUL GIBSON
T
HE application to move Hailsham’s famous cattle market to the edge of town has been withdrawn. Plans were submitted in January last year after news emerged the market must move from the current site in Market Street for animal welfare issues, and a new market must be constructed to comply with them. Controversial plans were also submitted to develop the empty site if the cattle market was to move by McCarthy Stone. The developer wanted to build 62 Extra Care apartments and 17 Extra Care bungalows alongside tailored communal facilities and associated parking and landscaping. These plans have also been withdrawn. A spokesperson from South East Marts Limited, the landowner of the site, told Hailsham News: “It has always been made clear by the planners
that, in any application for the relocation of the present Hailsham Market, they want to see details about the relocated market and the after use of the existing site submitted simultaneously and determined together. “Due to the planners raising additional matters that require some time to satisfy, as well as recent changes in the planning procedures, it was decided that the best course of action is withdrawing the present applications and resubmitting them when the applicants can satisfy all outstanding matters. Until then, Hailsham Market will continue to operate as usual from its existing premises in Market Street.” The National Farmers Union (NFU) wrote to Wealden Planners to support the plans by South East Marts to move the market to a new location. It said: “Relocation, with the associated improved facilities, is essential for the long-term viability
of the market’. The purpose-built market would be a sustainable development that supports rural employment and complies with the latest animal welfare regulations.” South East Marts concluded: “The continued existence of Hailsham Livestock Market is an important feature for Hailsham and the wider rural economy. Farmers depend upon the market to trade their animals, and the wider area depends upon a thriving agricultural industry to maintain the rich and varied local landscape that we all enjoy.” The owners of Knockhatch Adventure Park,
which is close to the proposed new cattle market site, have always been against the proposals. They told Hailsham News: “Knockhatch Adventure Park welcomes the decision of South East Marts to withdraw their application to establish a cattle market in close proximity to our park. As a family business, we believe this represents a positive outcome for the local community, wildlife, and the tourism industry. We have consistently expressed concerns about the potential negative impacts of the proposed cattle market on Knockhatch Adventure Park and Bushy Wood Activity Centre.”
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12 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
NEW PATH APPROVED FOR TOWN’S COMMON POND
T
own Councillors have agreed to make improvements to the perimeter footpath at the site to make it more accessible and useable in all seasons. The works, which are scheduled to take place this year, will include the overlaying of parts of the perimeter footpath with tarmac, making it smoother and more accessible for disabled users. Councillor Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “The Common Pond is our ‘jewel in the crown’, which is enjoyed by many residents, and we will continue to invest
in the area so it remains a site our residents can be proud. “The agreed footpath improvements at the pond coincides with other similar upgrades to some Town Council-maintained sites, including recent improvements to pathways at children’s play area sites and the complete overlaying of footpaths at Hailsham Cemetery with tarmac, which is ongoing.” “All footpath relaying projects add are part of a wider strategy to commit to investing in our land and assets as best as we can.” The forthcoming relaying of the footpath follows the Town
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News Council’s efforts earlier this year to tackle flooding at the pond, work which involved the installation of a new overflow pipe and culvert to help prevent certain sections of the perimeter footpath from flooding during the winter months, which previously restricted access to some parts of the open space. Town Clerk John Harrison said: “Hailsham Town Council is responsible for a number of areas of public open space within the town. Most of these have designated footpaths to provide access to and around the area, and a number of them, particularly at the Common Pond site, have experienced flooding over the past few winters. “As it appears that the increased amount of rainfall has become the norm for the local weather during the autumn and winter months, the Town Council took the necessary steps to ensure that future flooding of footpaths is prevented as much as possible.” The Town Council’s plan to undertake these improvements to the Common Pond site is just part of the Council’s vision to enhance its open spaces over the course of the next few years. With a good response from members of the public, the many improvements to Hailsham’s Common Pond over the two decades — including the installation of culvert fencing and the repair of some drain covers — have been successfully carried out, thanks to regular maintenance and monitoring of the site by Town Council staff. Other major improvements to the 1.86-acre site have included the removal of approximately 2,500 cubic metres of silt, the construction of a second island and sloping marginal wetland area and the installation of a hard surface path, benches and additional shrubs along the pond edge. Since then, the Town Council has undertaken surveys of the site and, on the advice of the Environment Agency, additional work to improve and consolidate the island banks to prevent further erosion has been achieved by installing additional aquatic plants around the banks of the islands. Mr Harrison added: “It’s always nice to receive positive feedback from people on the work undertaken by outdoor works staff at the Common Pond site, and we look forward to the continuation of our work to maintain the area in the future to allow the pond life to flourish and make improvements so that residents and visitors can continue to enjoy this local beauty spot.”
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For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
JANUARY 2024
and 43. They both connect rural villages with Hailsham or Eastbourne and Polegate. I love driving the country lanes and visiting the pretty villages. Every drive has something different to notice. You might see horse riders out and about, farmers busy in the fields and senior cycling clubs out for their weekly rides. I love seeing the seasons change too — new spring flowers in the hedgerows or the changing colours of leaves in the Autumn. It’s a joy!
Ken Brooks is a volunteer driver for Cuckmere Community Buses
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE A VOLUNTEER BUS DRIVER?
en Brooks wanted something to keep him busy in retirement — driving with Cuckmere Community Buses was just the ticket.
K
up. She was right (as she always is!) I enjoy the driving, being part of a very friendly and worthy organisation and providing a service to the country villages.
How did you become a volunteer bus driver? I was due to retire from working in London in March 2016 and was looking for something to do. My wife saw an advert on the back of a Cuckmere bus and thought I might enjoy it. I rang the number, was impressed with the aims and principles of the charity and signed
What was the training like? Although the buses are quite a bit bigger than a car, they are surprisingly easy to drive. Training was really well organised. I did several drives with an instructor on two different buses and then a simple driving theory test. You don’t need a special licence to drive our buses either
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE 13
Keith Moore and Ken Brooks, volunteer drivers
How often do you drive and how many routes do you know? I drive five or six times a month. I try and fit round my wife’s diary so it doesn’t interfere with home life too much. I know four routes, but mainly drive two — both country village routes where the driving conditions can be interesting! You never know quite what’s coming round the next bend, but it’s great fun. What’s your favourite drive and why? I honestly couldn’t choose between routes 42
What’s the best thing about driving for Cuckmere Buses? The best part is the passengers! It is more of a social gathering than a journey to the shops. In the outlying villages there is no commercial bus service. We provide an essential service to people who can’t drive and have no other means of transport apart from expensive taxis. I haven’t yet met an unhappy passenger. I recently drove one regular passenger who was recovering from a broken hip all the way up to her front door as she was still a bit unsteady on her feet. It only took a few extra minutes and the other passengers were very grateful for that little service to a fellow passenger. To find out more call 07711 243419 or email nick@cuckmerebuses.org.uk
14 FEATURES
JANUARY 2024
A MATTER OF TASTE We send anonymous members of the team to check out local pubs, cafes and restaurants to give you an honest review. These visits are not pre-arranged, and the venues do not know they are reviewing the food and drink!
YUMMY NOODLE BAR
Located at the Enterprise Centre, Eastbourne
Lively decorated interior
e’ve been going to Yummy Noodle Bar since it first opened as a single unit in the Enterprise Centre in Eastbourne way back in 1999. Since moving out of Eastbourne, it hasn’t been on our radar for regular visits, so we decided to go there once again after a few years’ hiatus. Great to see that nothing much has changed. The familiar, friendly face behind the counter still warmly welcomed us to our seats. The service remains as prompt and efficient as ever, and the lively banter among the chefs behind the counter is a constant. Despite the animated discussions that might sound like arguments, having experienced similar interactions in Asia, we appreciate that it’s just a cultural aspect. The use of their native language adds to the ambience, making us feel like we’re on holiday, enjoying a taste of the Orient, and keeping us on our toes,
wondering if they’re engaged in a spirited debate or just bantering. The menu at Yummy Noodle Bar offers a delightful mix of dishes that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. From traditional Chinese and Thai options to the more unconventional Singaporean, Japanese and Vietnamese choices, there’s a diverse range to explore. Whether you have a preference for rice or noodle dishes, the menu caters to both. An exciting addition is the option to customise your meal by selecting your preferred meat, allowing you to personalise your favourite dish to suit your taste. This enhancement adds an extra layer of flexibility and enjoyment to the dining experience. With the customary Prawn Crackers, we also ordered starters of Salt & Pepper Squid served with Sweet Chilli Sauce (£5.10) and Vegetable Spring Rolls served with Sweet Chilli Sauce (5 for £5.10).
W
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
For mains, we ordered the Assorted Chow process—from the empty wok hitting the flame to Mein — Chinese noodles cooked with king the finished meal landing on the plate, each one prawns, marinated chicken breast, garlic, carrots, taking no more than 60 seconds. mushrooms, snow peas and bean sprouts (£9.20) It became evident that meticulous preparation and Spicy Beef with Onions — Chinese noodles played a pivotal role in their efficiency; every cooked with strips of marinated top-side steak, ingredient was precisely portioned for each dish. onions, garlic, chilli, seasoned Observing this gastronomic with dark soy sauce (£9.20). A performance was not just Glass of Prosecco (£5.95) and a mesmerising but also highly Tiger Beer (£4.70) finished off our entertaining—it’s this preparation meals nicely. This meal for two that epitomises their gourmet cost £39.25, which is fabulous perfection, highlighting the core value for money. of their success. I remember when Yummy Yummy Noodle Bar proved such Noodle Bar first opened in 1999, a hit with the locals that when the for the same Assorted Chow Mein neighbouring unit became free dish was £7.20, so in 24 years, some years later it wasted no time they’ve only raised their prices £2. in expanding into it, opening up This modest adjustment serves a bigger restaurant to seat more as a testament to the excellent than double the original diners. value for money (hopefully, It’s It’s reassuring to note that the not an encouragement for further expansion hasn’t altered them in increases!) It suggests that they any way. Often, when businesses Spicy Beef and Onion Noodles have probably struck the right grow, certain aspects may suffer, balance in their pricing strategy. but they continue to operate with precision and Situated conveniently in the Enterprise Centre, maintain their usual standards. They run a very Yummy Noodle Bar benefits from ample parking tight ship, and all the familiar elements are still in options. Guests can make use of the centre’s own place. parking facilities, and there is also convenient Yummy Noodle Bar provides an excellent parking available at the adjacent Eastbourne dine-in experience and also offers a convenient Station car park. This accessibility makes it hassletakeaway service. You can locate Yummy Noodle free for patrons to find parking and enjoy their Bar in the Enterprise Shopping Centre, Station dining experience without any concerns about Parade, Eastbourne. In the evening, access is parking availability. available through the outside doors when the rest I have fond memories of sitting in Yummy of the shopping centre is closed. It’s important to Noodle Bar years ago, before its expansion, with a note that the toilets are part of the shopping centre prime spot right at the bar facing the kitchen. Our facilities and can be found upstairs, accessed via attention was captivated by the remarkable speed external steps. and skill with which an array of dishes emerged Tel: 01323 639800 from the kitchen. At one point, we even timed the https://yummynoodlebar.uk
WANT TO DRIVE A BUS? VOLUNTEER DRIVERS REQUIRED
20% OFF IN JANUARY We are a very busy charity operating several 16-seater mini-buses from our base at Berwick. We provide many timetabled services each week in the rural Cuckmere Valley area, plus town services in Hailsham and Seaford. We’re always seeking to increase our team of drivers.
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A shift is usually half a day, and you may drive as many or as few shifts as you wish in any month.
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WWW.YEWTREE-INN.CO.UK/BOOK-HERE Applies to bookings of up to 6 people when each eating a main meal. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Full training and back-up will be given. You do not need a PCV qualification, but you do need a D1 classification on your licence. To find out more about being a driver and joining our team of volunteers, call 07834 558376 or email volunteer@cuckmerebuses.org.uk. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and to join an organisation where everyone is a volunteer. For timetables and other information about us, visit: cuckmerebuses.org.uk
FEATURES 15
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
Bates Green Garden, an RHS Partner Garden, is open every Wednesday until 25th October 2023. For details please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
“There are two seasonal diversions that can ease the bite of any winter. One is the January thaw. The other is the seed catalogues.” — Hal Borland
A New Year has arrived, bringing with it the hope of a brilliant year ahead for gardening. But the time for action is not now; relax with a delicious cup of tea (or your favourite tipple if the sun is over the yard arm) and do some reading for advice and inspiration. Seed catalogues are traditionally read in January, but I thought that this month I would share just some of my favourite garden writers with you all. These have been my companions for many years now, and I regularly curl up with them when I get the chance. My bookshelves at home are groaning under the weight of so many horticultural tomes, and so it is very handy when two of the most inspirational writers join together to produce just one book. The book in question is Dear Friend & Gardener by Beth Chatto and Christopher Lloyd, published by Frances Lincoln. The publication is a series of correspondence between these two most esteemed
gardeners, and it is absolutely fascinating to read. The letters are in chronological order according to the time of year and so this is the ideal month to start. I loved getting the domestic insights into their respective lives, there are also beautifully written descriptions of plants and gardening techniques that will make you long for Spring. Patience. Vita Sackville West is, for me, the quintessential garden writer. She writes poetically, amusingly and intellectually about plants that she clearly knows inside out. Scour the secondhand shops and websites for her informative books, I have a well-thumbed copy of her publication In Your Garden which is a collection from the weekly gardening column she wrote for The Guardian for 15 years starting in 1946. You will learn so much and be thoroughly entertained in the process. Anna Pavord is probably best known for her weighty tome, The Tulip, which I regularly consult in August when we are starting to plan our container displays. I also like Plant Partners for its logical layout and practical inventiveness. All about plant associations, the book focuses on the details of specific herbaceous perennials and what best to partner them with. The ideal handbook for sitting and daydreaming about billowing summer borders. When I am not at Bates Green Garden, I am a keen grower of food. I have an allotment and also some raised beds at home, and I enjoy not only the taste and health-giving properties of my produce but also the beauty of their form, texture and architectural presence. My Vegetable Bible is and always has been Grow Your Own Vegetables by Joy Larkcom. I am on my third copy now; living in my allotment bucket doesn’t do much for the condition of a book! At this time of year, however, I luxuriate in the allurement of her book
WORKING HARD FOR WEALDEN I hold regular surgeries both in person and virtually. If you require my assistance, get in touch at: nusrat.ghani.mp@parliament.uk or, visit my website: www.nusghani.org.uk Nus_Ghani
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Creative Vegetable Gardening. It starts with the quote from Saint Ignatius ‘There is nothing simpler, nor more beautiful, than a kitchen garden’, and the sumptuous photographs serve to illustrate this. The chapters are titled ‘Magic’ ‘Design’ ‘Drama’ and ‘Decoration’ to give you a small taster. It is packed with unusual yet achievable ideas, and you will look at a cabbage leaf in a whole new light… When I was a busy mother with young children and my own small garden, I was drawn to the book Dirty Weekends or the Part-Time Gardener by Sarah Creswell. I do believe, if my memory serves me correctly, that this was my first gardening book. I already had a house full of indoor plants, but my attention was gradually turning outside to the uninspiring square of a lawn on which my children played. This book made everything seem easy and achievable and I thoroughly recommend it to any beginners who may not know where to start. The author has illustrated it charmingly, it is well set out and accessible to all. My advice to you all in January is to wrap up and get out in the daylight, even for a short while every day. I appreciate that this is hard for the indoor workers among us, but everyone is entitled to a lunch break, and if there is not a green space for you to walk in within 15 minutes away then start campaigning for one! If you WFH or can walk in your own garden or the countryside every day, then you will realise just how much Nature has provided for us in January. Thank you very much for reading my ramblings, and I hope we all have Great Gardening Weather in 2024.
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16 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
OPINION
POLITICS AND SHOW BUSINESS ARE BASICALLY THE SAME THING BY KIM MAYO
IF you are a moderately successful politician with no prospect of ever becoming Prime Minister, there is a far more lucrative route to success. Politics is, to a large extent, one big yawn fest. Endless days spent in the House of Commons, the House of Lords or, prior to the United Kingdom leaving the European Union, the opportunity to lead a chilled-out life in Brussels or Strasbourg. But, why bother once you have spent years spouting off only to either find yourself cast as public enemy number one or, even worse, becoming Prime Minister? A far more attractive proposition is to become a ‘reality television star’ where you can earn hundreds of thousands of pounds by spending three weeks in the Australian jungle being subjected to eating various unmentionables, being buried in a pit with creepy crawlies or spending the rest of the time having a damn good kip in a hammock? This brings us neatly to Nigel Farage, previously dubbed the most hated man in Britain, but will he care? Not one jot, I imagine, because Nige apparently bagged a cool £1.2million for participating in the most recent series of ITV reality show I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here.
PHOTO CREDIT: NIGEL FARAGE, I’M A CELEBRITY... GET ME OUT OF HERE!
Somewhat unexpectedly, Mr Farage, former leader of UKIP and the Brexit Party, finished in third place with rumours now abounding that he will return to frontline politics now that he is firmly back in the public eye. He has followed in the footsteps of other politicians who have taken the jungle route, such as Edwina Currie, Stanley Johnson (father of Boris), Nadine
Dorries and Matt Hancock. Mr Hancock has reinvented himself as a ‘reality television star’, having taken part in last year’s I’m a Celebrity, finishing in third place even though, as Health Secretary, he had broken his own Covid rules by canoodling with one of his aides only to be captured in the act on CCTV. Flushed with his initial success on reality television, he then took part in something called Celebrity SAS, Who Dares Wins, where he once again finished third while adding even more cash to his pension pot. Indeed, so successful had his exploits been that he has now announced his intention to step down as an MP at the next General Election to concentrate on other potentially lucrative endeavours. So, what’s next for our politicians? Looking intently at my crystal ball, I can foresee the future with some clarity. Why bother with debates in Parliament when you can star in the next series of Love Island? Politics is a complete waste of time. Boris Johnson may well opt for the jungle after being deposed as Prime Minister and, let’s face it, he has already previously humiliated himself while London Mayor by getting stuck on a zip wire above the Thames, whilst sporting a pair of rather fetching Union Jack socks. It is but a short step to being filmed knawing on a camel’s rancid anus in one of
I’m a Celebrity’s notorious eating challenges. Plus, he would be given a bucketful of cash to boot. It can only be a matter of time before we see the respective leaders of the Conservative and Labour parties facing off on reality television. It would certainly make for gripping viewing. I am all in favour of such a scenario. That is because politics is, to all intents and purposes, show business. The two have merged into one in recent years. There is, as I write this, talk of Mr Farage making a return to frontline politics, and he may well do so because his public profile has never been higher. He is no longer vilified, having reinvented himself as a cuddly and loveable Nige. Whether he is or not is a moot point, but his success in the jungle underlines the power of reality television. Politics has become boring and predictable, and the prospect of a forthcoming General Election is depressing rather than inspiring. Mr Sunak could always book an appearance on Who Wants to be a Millionaire, but then again there is no point because he already is one. The only option left for Mr Sunak and his Labour counterpart Sir Keir Starmer is a celebrity boxing match broadcast live on ITV. And only one question remains… which is, who will land the knockout blow?
IT’S COMPETITION TIME OH, YES IT IS! You shall go to the ball with the fairy godmother of all pantomimes,
CINDERELLA.
Tickets can be booked by calling the box office for these dates: (not included in competition prize)
Hailsham News is giving away FOUR tickets to the Cinderella performance on Wednesday 24th January 2023 (not transferable), at the Hailsham Pavilion, by entering this competition.
Wednesday, 24th January @ 7pm
Join Cinders as she transforms from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked Stepsisters and with the help of a friend and two very magical Fairy Godmothers, meets her Prince Charming.
Saturday, 27th January @ 3pm
Thursday, 25th January @ 7pm Friday, 26th January @ 7pm Saturday, 27th January @ 11am Saturday, 27th January @ 7pm Sunday, 28th January @ 11am
HOW TO ENTER
Simply answer this question and email your answer to comps@hailsham.news by 5pm on 15th January 2023
24 – 28 January – Hailsham Pavilion Book online or call the Pavilion Box Office on 01323 841414
WHAT DOES CINDERELLA LOSE AT THE BALL? A: SLIPPER B: SHOE C: SLIDER
WHEN ENTERING, INCLUDE YOUR NAME AND PHONE NUMBER WITH YOUR ANSWER. WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED AT 5PM ON 15TH JANUARY 2023, VIA EMAIL.
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18 NEWS
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
FIVE MINUTES WITH…
SAM BEALE FROM STEVENS AND CARTER Sam Is a popular face around Hailsham and has been successful, along with his team at Stevens and Carter, based on the high Street, in securing an array of National awards for the company. Sam talks about his passion for the town and his vision of its future How long have you lived in Hailsham, and why do you choose to live here? Born and raised in St Leonards, Hailsham wasn’t somewhere I was too familiar with prior to starting at Stevens and Carter Estate Agents almost eight years ago. I landed a role here as a Negotiator and soon found I was building a good network of friends and business connections that encouraged me to look for a place here, and in what felt like no time at all, it was where I now call home. Through my work, I mix with lots of people, and the one
message that comes across loud and clear is Hailsham is not a town that everyone has heard of, but once you live here and experience its unique charm, you end up never leaving, it just has a wonderful way of growing on you. What is it you love about Hailsham? Hailsham is wonderfully friendly and has all you need without having to go far. In The Town Centre, we have a great range of local independent eateries such as B12, Bucklers, Rustico and several excellent Asian and Chinese restaurants, as well as a selection of supermarkets (Three). There is also a wide range of large businesses located on The Diplocks Industrial Estate, suiting most needs. In my time living in the town, I have found local businesses are very supportive of each other, which in my experience, you often don’t find in larger towns, they all seem to share a common goal of improving the town, and that is what makes this Town very welcoming and friendly. What do you think needs improving in Hailsham? Hailsham has grown so much over the last few years, with new developments popping up in every corner of the town; it seems that as one finishes, another begins, hundreds, in fact, thousands of new homes. This, of course, creates a double-edged sword with, on the one hand, more business coming into the town but, on the other hand creating a huge surge in the volume of people and cars. I feel more could have been done to accommodate this, certainly with respect to traffic measures. I have been informed that there are plans afoot
MONKSEY’S MUTTERINGS
NEW YEAR, NEW HOPE BY BRAD MONKS Welcome to 2024. As we wait expectantly to see what delights are in store whilst the earth makes another revolution around the sun, will Hailsham be recognisable this time next year? Will the road surface on Diplocks Way uphold its charming characteristics akin to that of a cratered moon surface, or will the proportion of our Council Tax that we pay, under threat of legal action, actually be used, and we get what we have been paying for? More to the point, will there still be the ongoing social media discussion of Diplocks Way being a private road and, therefore nothing to do with either ESCC or WDC, although that seems to be academic as there is a strong possibility that nothing is to do with either of them if we believe what they say themselves…the buck has been passed that many times it’s now a fully-grown adult deer. Speaking of which, why do they always put a deer crossing on a busy road? They could at least build them on quieter roads and minimise the accident risk for the deer!! As the swathe of new houses gets built, spare a thought for the new residents whose shiny new homes are built in flood areas; if only Bullseye were still on TV, then they may have a chance of winning a speedboat to go to the shops. We will have to wait to see if the rumours of paid parking in Hailsham come to fruition. That should be an interesting one as there seems to be an ongoing
game of ‘Park Like Stevie Wonder’ for the last few years already. It is fantastic to hear that three new doctor’s surgeries and two new dental practices will be opening in Hailsham for 2024, along with the commitment that newly resurfaced roads will not be dug up a few weeks after completion…sorry, I dozed off at my keyboard then, and that was a dream about common sense being utilised by our elected elite and them caring about the community. On the positive side, we should take note that Freedom Leisure is draining and refilling the Leisure Centre swimming pool as well as repairing the water slide; hopefully, they’ll mend the hole in the outer wall so the pool area is no longer referred to as Motown Temperature… 3 Degrees, Four Tops! I really hope that 2024 is a good one for you and the town of Hailsham; if there is anything you feel should get a mention in an upcoming ‘Monksey’s Mutterings’, then email brad@verymagic.co.uk and I’ll take an in-depth look. Until next time, people. www.verymagic.co.uk
to help ease this but am unsure as to when these will be carried out, I hope this is done (we shall wait and see). How do you envisage Hailsham in ten years’ time? Bigger and better! The more people that come to the town, the more likely businesses will be to invest in and around the area; I hope to see more hospitality come to the town and for our existing fabulous local businesses to continue to adapt and thrive. However, this can only be achieved if the right infrastructure is put into place, and that’s Wealden Districts Council’s responsibility; I’m sure they are up to it. Tell us about your business… Stevens and Carter are ‘The Best Estate Agent Guide Gold Winners’ 2022, 2023 & 2024 as well as receiving the Gold standard accolade of excellence from The British Property Awards for 2023-2024. www.stevensandcarter.co.uk
LAURIE’S POEM CORNER Laurie Wilkinson is a locally famous, published Poet who thrills and entertains at many locations promoting his books while raising money for Help for Heroes. To find out more about Laurie, see his books and support his cause, simply visit the website below.
The chosen poem for this month is from my 9th book, Our World in Verse, and is entitled Born Anew, and so is particularly apt for the start of another new year. However, written some three years ago, this poem is a rare look behind my mask, and into my private world, although, to be honest, much of Book Nine allows this too. Born Anew is about my feelings, concerns and recovering after some years of caring for my now late wife and her dementia. At this point, I want to salute and shout out to all the carers and families struggling to deal with dementia etc. Many of us will have to recover and regroup from various devastations in our lives, thus, I hope my expressed apprehensions and doubts may help others along the way.
BORN ANEW I’m confronted by crossroads and junctions When I would prefer one straight lane, Because these various direction choices Are not helping me much to stay sane. For many ideas and choices avail me Since I have left the clinging mire. Leaving me in quite a bewilderment As to what is now my heart’s desire. Because I had spent so long battling To be both caring and master of all, And that is an almost impossible task From which it’s so very easy to fall, Into bouts of exhaustion and frustration That watching eyes may fail to see, Yet doesn’t always stop any observers From criticism, but not helping me.
For though support services are about And apparently can do everything, But it doesn’t always actually occur However often their bell you ring. Though to be fair that isn’t entirely true For a few people really did care, But whilst they did grease the wheels Much needed help just wasn’t there. So therefore I now look out anew A sadder, tired, but wiser man, Confronted by changes in a new world Like some sort of older “Peter Pan”. And so not to be daunted or afraid I step out to see if I will win or lose, But all seems muddled and confusing, Just like the road that I must choose.
To purchase Laurie’s books, visit www.lauriewilkinson.com
Your local independent property experts... Residential Lettings Land New Homes
WHIFFENS CLOSE, HAILSHAM - £295,000
BLACKBIRD DRIVE, HELLINGLY, £325,000
Look At Our On-Line 3D Virtual Property Tour | A Fabulous 3 Bedroom Semi-Detached House | Very Long Rear Garden With Westerly Aspect | Excellent Decorative Order | Almost 16ft Wide Conservatory | Walking Distance Of School| Easy Access To Excellent Road Links | CHAIN FREE.
3D Virtual Tour l Gas Central Heating l Favoured North Hailsham Location l Good Transport Links l Office Room l Immaculately Presented l Family Home l Ample Off Road Parking l En-Suite l Lounge-Diner l Viewing Essential
If you are looking for a solid, well built family home presented in excellent decorative order then this three bedroom semi-detached house is worth a look. Not only does it feature a modern kitchen and bathroom suite it also has a downstairs WC, a 16ft conservatory, gas central heating, double glazed windows and a very long rear garden affording a favoured westerly aspect, all considered essential for any family. Finally, as if the above is not enough to want to make you view, the property is being offered CHAIN FREE.
Stevens and Carter are pleased to welcome to market this beautifully appointed semi-detached house affording a favoured position on the ‘Burfield Grange’ Bovis homes estate. Comprising of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious lounge diner, a property certainly not to be missed! The property is arranged thus; entrance hallway, WC, kitchen, lounge diner with patio doors leading to the rear garden, stairs to first floor landing, bedroom one benefitting from en-suite, bedroom two, bedroom three and family bathroom. Externally the property affords, off road parking for multiple vehicles, a well appointed front and rear garden with outside office room perfect for home working.
FREE VALUATIONS FOR SELLING & RENTING
MUDDLES GREEN, CHIDDINGLY, £440,000
GORDON ROAD, HAILSHAM - £300,000
3D Virtual Tour | Village Location | Adjacent To Village Green | Nearby Primary School | Large Garden | Outbuildings | Potential | New uPVC Windows and Doors | Modern Electric Heating | Arranged Over Three Floors
Characterful Cottage | Comprehensively Modernised & Updated | High Spec Finish | Kitchen-Breakfast Room | Two Bathrooms | Landscaped Mature Garden | Walkable To Town | Arranged Over Three Floors Arranged over three floors is this most beautifully refurbished charming characterful cottage, offering the opportunity to just move in and enjoy the merits of all the hard work that’s gone into renovating it. Inside, on the ground floor it is arranged with an entrance hall, lounge with feature fireplace, kitchen-breakfast room, utility hall and contemporary shower room. On the first floor there are three bedrooms while on the second floor can be found a further double bedroom and bathroom. To the rear is a nicely landscaped and mature garden with pond, patio seating area and outbuilding with power/potential garden office.
Occupying a generous and mature plot in the heart of Muddles Green, Chiddingly, is this period cottage arranged over three floors. Internally the property boasts plenty of potential for the intending purchaser to realise. It is arranged with an entrance porch, front aspect lounge with open fireplace, rear aspect kitchen with door into the rear garden, bathroom, stairs to the first floor landing, two bedrooms and stairs to the loft bedroom. To the rear there is an outbuilding and to the front is off road parking.
47 HIGH STREET, HAILSHAM, BN27 1AN CALL 01323 840444 or visit stevensandcarter.co.uk
20 COMMERCE UPDATE
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
HAILSHAM AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE PRESIDENT’S REPORT DECEMBER 2023 December started off with a bang for Hailsham Chamber with our monthly breakfast meeting at B12 Bar and Kitchen focusing on Hailsham and District Chamber of Commerce, and our working with and cooperation with other local organisations, for the benefit of our members and the community. With over sixty attendees, including our guest Chris Bending, Corporate Director – Place, of Wealden District Council, the Chambers commitment to lobby and work for our membership was clearly demonstrated. Other guests at the meeting included Paul Holbrook, Mayor of Hailsham, Mickey Caira, Hailsham Town Council, Councillor Stephen Potts, Hailsham Town Council, Christina Ewbank, Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce, Eastbourne BID and EDEAL, and Steve Wennington, Hailsham Active plus many more representatives of local businesses and organisations. As President of the Chamber, it was my pleasure to introduce Chris Bending to the meeting. I outlined the history of Chambers from the beginning with Glasgow Chamber founded in 1783 up to the present day explaining that Chambers is a key part of the business network whose goal is to further our members’ interests, representing them at both local and national government. The interests of Hailsham and District Chamber of Commerce revolve around Hailsham as defined in our name, which is governed by the
National Government at Westminster. The UK Government delegates its responsibilities for local governance to County Councils for Birth, Death, and Marriage registrations, Education, Fire Service, Highways, including on-street parking, traffic management and street lighting, Recreation, Arts and Museums, Social Care, Strategic Planning and Trading Standards. District Councils such as Wealden District Council are responsible for the collection of Council tax and non-domestic rates, Environmental health, Housing, Leisure centres, Local plans and planning applications, Public conveniences, and Waste collection. Wealden District Council have a wide remit and a significant impact on the local population and businesses; it is therefore important for businesses to be able to lobby and influence their District Council and, indeed, all other levels of government and the meeting was a practical example of the Chamber of Commerce in action. Representing Wealden District Council, Chris Bending gave an interesting and lively presentation detailing Hailsham Town Centre developments, including the cattle market, the proposed Leisure and Medical Hub, the Draft Local Plan and Sports Facilities and how the Chamber and our members can influence and have a significant impact upon local policy. Chris Bending stated that “it is great to engage with the local business community and work
together to address local issues and support great local employers”. Following Chris’s extensive and stimulating presentation members were given the opportunity to question Chris with many interesting and important subjects covered. Following over thirty minutes of questions and discussion, the meeting finished with the Chamber thanking Chris Bending and our other guests for their contributions, but, more importantly, a clearer understanding of the problems and proposed solutions Wealden are addressing and their commitment to work with the Chamber, Hailsham Town Council, Hailsham Forward and local businesses. Writing this month’s report I am aware that we are now in the final stages of 2023 and fast approaching Christmas and 2024. Looking back on 2023, we have witnessed a National Government struggling to stay in control, conflict in the Ukraine, and conflict in Israel and Palestine. We are living in a world where stability is threatened along with the environment and all that entails with global warming and the impacts thereof, it is however important to remember that individuals have a voice, and for businesses in Hailsham and District that voice is your Chamber of Commerce. Looking on the bright side, your Chamber has held many social events during the year, including at local restaurants, all of whom are
members, surfboarding for the more athletic, bowling, and earlier this week, our Chamber Christmas dinner at the Gun at Heathfield, where members enjoyed fine food and great camaraderie to finish the year off on a high note before Christmas. I have one observation from that event, where the Gun welcomed the Chamber royally and provided a Christmas meal to be proud of. Following drinks at the bar, our members sat down to enjoy the meal reaching for the Christmas crackers lying to the side of each table setting, we started to join together and pull the crackers, normally a litany of bangs, cracks and flashes ensued with the contents of the crackers spilling onto the table, not his time, in fact, muted silence followed by incredulity. Notes had fallen from the crackers, which read thus: “We have removed the snap from this cracker to ensure it is completely recyclable, Part of our journey to make every Christmas a celebration of responsibility”. BONKERS!! How can anyone produce crackers that are silent? The whole point is the noise, hence the name cracker; if they really want to contribute to the environment and reduce energy and recycling, don’t make crackers simple. Finally, I would wish all our members, the Hailsham and District community have had a wonderful Christmas by the time that you have read this and wish you all a peaceful, fulfilling and productive New Year.
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22 SPORT
JANUARY 2024
For the latest local news, visit: www.Hailsham.News
WET DECEMBER HAILSHAM HARRIERS BRAVE BAD WEATHER HURTS HAILSHAM TO END 2023 IN STYLE BY HELEN O’SULLIVAN
H
BY STUART FAIRWAY
AILSHAM Cricket Club celebrated and awarded its players at a dinner, dance and awards evening recently. More than a hundred members attended the event which took place at the Wellshurst Golf Club on Saturday 4th November where a host of awards were given out across the evening for the variety of different teams the club runs. A wet December meant that the Stringers only managed a single game before the end of the month, that coming on Saturday 2nd when a last-gasp Reece Coughlan goal gave Hailsham a 1-0 win at home to Storrington in the League Cup.
The Swans, who Hailsham drew 2-2 within the league earlier in the season, came into the game as favourites after winning the Division Two Cup the next season, but Hailsham played well, holding off the cup holders and proving a threat to their own. Eventually, in the third minute of stoppage time, Coughlan, who has now scored four goals since his arrival at the club in October, turned in the box to lash home from close range, setting up a Quarter Final tie for the Stringers against local rivals Jarvis Brook (date TBC). Hailsham’s next league game was scheduled for Saturday, 30th December, when they travelled the short distance to Jarvis Brook, with January fixtures to be announced.
Goalscorer Reece Coughlan leads the charge towards delighted manager Kyle Davis supported by Harry Butler (8), Will Gordon (16) and Mike Mwaura (14). Photo credit: Alan Hook
HAILSHAM TENNIS CLUB ROUNDUP BY MANNY GALITZINE
Hailsham Tennis Club’s teams had a tough December. The ladies’ 2nd team had a match in sub-zero temperatures at Preston LTC in Brighton, and the first pair, Narun Chea and Georgia Lee, lost a tie-break in their first set, then managed to come back and win the second, also on a tie-break. That took the match into a championship tie-
Georgia Lee, Barbara Cordner, Narun Chea and Hayley Allender
break (first to 10 points), which Narun and Georgia won 11-9. Meanwhile, second pair, Barbara Cordner and Hayley Allender, lost their first leg to the Preston first pair 6-1, 6-3, then had the same result against the second pair. Narun and Georgia also lost to the first pair, giving the Preston side a 3-1 win. The men’s team played top-of-the-table Pavilion
Neil Downer, Johan Jooste, Dom Walter and Jose Noya
& Avenue in wet conditions. Second pair, Dom Walter and Jose Noya, had a tough time, losing both their legs 6-1, 6-0. But first pair, Johan Jooste and Neil Downer won their first leg 6-2, 6-3, before a battle against the P & A first pair, winning their first set and losing the second, taking them into a championship tie-break. The Hailsham pair won that to give the team a 2-2 draw in this top-of-thetable clash. At the clubhouse, there was Christmas cheer as the social committee laid on a feast for 36 members and family. The room was transformed with wreaths and table decorations, as course after course was presented to the guests. There was a quiz while the plates were cleared and then a chorus of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to finish off the festivities.
On a chilly Saturday morning last month, two brave Harriers, Michael Husarz and Marcos Jarvis, took part in the inaugural UK Ultra Winter 55-mile race. Starting at Helen Gardens in Eastbourne, the route heads up and over the South Downs towards Firle, Glynde and Lewes before finishing back in Eastbourne. These two Warriors joined over 100 runners in temperatures on the day not exceeding 4ºC. They both finished together in an impressive 14:23:59. On Sunday 3rd December, three Harriers, Julie Lewis-Clements, Louise Williams and Claire Hope, joined 300 Father Christmas’s to run the Bexhill Lions Santa dash. Held along the Bexhill promenade and open to all abilities, entrants could run or walk a 2K or 5K distance. Julie, Louise and Claire then joined their teammates in Abbotts Wood, where the club put on a festive Christmas run combined with a treasure hunt for its members, finishing with a wonderful Christmas Jumper-themed dinner at the neighbouring pub — The Old Oak Inn. Despite a day of constant rain, the Hailsham spirit shone through. On Sunday, 10th December and faced with more soggy weather conditions, twelve Harriers competed in the Mince Pie 10 mile race at Peacehaven. Organised by the Nice Work events team together with Seaford Striders, this was a sell-out race with 485 runners taking part, many embracing Christmas attire. Hailsham ladies, Aislinn Darvell 1:13:05 and Lianne Leakey 1:13:06 both took to the podium, placing second and third female overall on an undulating course in tough conditions. All runners received a bespoke medal and, of course, a mince pie. Whilst the UK braved high winds and rain, twenty-eight Harriers flew to sunnier climates to race the Malaga Half marathon and Marathon on Sunday 10th December. With temperatures in the early 20s, it was all sunshine and smiles as amongst many fabulous performances, nine Harriers achieved new half marathon personal bests — Mark Bassett 1:35:36, Robin Warwick 1:40:13, Chris Little 1:43:42, Nadine Reynolds 1:44:57, Ed Diplock 1:46:39, Connie Griffin 1:46:45, Katy Reed 1:49:00, Sam Neame 1:54:46 and Victoria Little 1:59:46, whilst in the Marathon, Adam Davies 3:10:52 and Ladies Captain, Helen O’Sullivan 3:28:39 also ran new personal bests. On Tuesday, 12th December, The Harriers put on their annual club event, The Turkey Trot, whereby members compete against each other
Malaga Mob
Mince Pie 10 2023 Aislinn and Lianne
in a time-adjusted 5K route. The first Harrier home is the winner of a Christmas Turkey. Club committee member and events planner Felicity Williams became victorious in the Turkey quest this year with Audrey Haddon, the fastest lady and Dave Garratt, the fastest male. On the night, as well as collecting donations for Hailsham Foodbank, the club holds a ballot for its soughtafter 2024 London Marathon place, of which Tom Bilton became the lucky winner. For Hailsham Junior runners, they also compete against each other in a time adjusted race — The Chicken Run, with all members receiving special prizes and a Mince Pie Buffett. Pett Wood, Saturday 16th December, was the home of The Christmas Pudding Dash, organised by the Nice Work events team. Three hardy Harriers, Katie Manley 45:06, Kevin 56:50 and Jayne Morris 56:50, donned their festive outfits to tackle the mud and the hills, with each runner at the end receiving a themed medal and a Christmas Pudding. On Sunday, 17th December, Hailsham took part in the third race of the East Sussex Sunday Cross Country League, held at Newplace Farm, Framfield and organised by Uckfield runners. It was a muddy affair which saw twenty-four Harriers compete in a field of 374 runners with some Winter sunshine even making an appearance. Running for Hailsham in their debut race saw Kevin Morris storm over the line in a magnificent 52:52. He joins his wife Jayne and daughter Abi in making it a truly family affair within team Hailsham. Hailsham Harriers is celebrating 40 glorious running years, so head over to the website to find out more about joining this friendly running club, open to all abilities, for both senior and junior runners; hailsham-harriers.org.uk
Malaga Half (Lisa Goldsmith, Chris Little, Tash Hawkes, Sam Neame, Hannah Chapman, Tina Macenhill, Victoria Little)
Join us for our next event
Bowes House care home, Hailsham
Stroke awareness Wednesday 24th January 2024 2pm - 4pm Meet Lynne Vincent from The Stroke Association to hear insights about this condition with information on the stages of recovery.
Trusted to care. To book please call 01323 315137 or email karen.milligan@careuk.com
24 SPORT
JANUARY 2024
SPORT
HAILSHAM HARRIERS PAGE 22
BODDY ON THE MARCH WITH BRIGHTON
Harvey Boddy and father, Dean
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BY MIKE LEGG
arvey Boddy is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Solly March and play for Brighton in the Premier League. The Seagulls, who have one of the most highly regarded recruitment departments in modern football, have snapped up the 15-year-old on Academy day release forms and now he is battling to prove he has what it takes to make it to the top. Boddy, whose mother Laura owns two shops in Bexhill, is studying at Bede’s, where Seagulls winger March was also a schoolboy. But he is also spending three days a week with Brighton after earning a spot after impressing in an eight-week trial which involved a number of games and training twice a week. The central midfielder won the opportunity after former Albion defender Adam Hinshelwood, the father of current Seagulls rising homegrown talent Jack, thrust him into the limelight. Boddy revealed: “I played for Worthing and manager Adam Hinshelwood gave me the opportunity to play for the first team against Brighton Under-21s, I performed well and Brighton gave me the opportunity to go on trial. And I was successful. “I was thrilled as I’ve always wanted
to play for them pretty much since the day I first started playing football. It was amazing.” Boddy is not getting carried away though, as he knows there is a long way to go if he is to realise his ambitions. He told the Hailsham News: “It would be my dream to play for Brighton — it is the one achievement I’d like to get. “Of course, it is a case of taking it step by step. The goal is to get a scholarship then a professional contract. I will get that scholarship decision next year when I go into Year 11.” Hailsham’s March, who is recovering from a serious knee injury, dropped into non-league before Brighton picked him up from Lewes but keeps close links with his old school. Boddy said: “He comes down to our school sometimes and does a training session but I haven’t had one with him yet — but I do see him every now and then.” Boddy is enjoying testing himself against some of the best young, hungry talent around. He said: “We are coming up against any type of team. It could be Tottenham, Watford or teams like Wimbledon or Gillingham — pretty much any team from the Premier League to League One. “It’s definitely different from playing at
Worthing, the pace of the game is a lot quicker. Also, you are playing around kids who are of similar ability but have the potential to go somewhere so there is a lot of competitiveness between one and another. It’s also a good standard of football so it’s great.” Boddy admits he has to pinch himself sometimes when he is at Albion’s state-ofthe-art training base in Lancing, where the youngsters rub shoulders with some of the hottest stars in Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. He added: “With it coming up to Christmas they will give us things we need to do to keep fit for when we come back. It’s a very professional environment and when we’re on day release we will be eating lunch and see all the first team players in and around us, which is what most kids would love to see. It’s great. “The other day Roberto De Zerbi came over to our table and tweaked one of my team-mates’ ears as a laugh and a joke. It was quite funny as it was such a surprise to us.” And Boddy knows even if does not work out at Albion, the experience will stand him in good stead to pursue a career in football. He added: “The goal at the end of the day is to play football as my job. Wake up, playing football every day — that’s the dream!”
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HOCKEY CLUB LAUNCHES PITCH CAMPAIGN Hailsham Hockey Club is looking to raise around £25,000 to contribute towards the resurfacing of its home pitch at Hailsham Community College which is nearing the Rachel Forss end of its life. The campaign, along with funds from the school and other organisations, will enable the existing pitch to be resurfaced to secure the future of the club and also provide a much-valued facility for not only the Hockey Club but also the school and wider community that use it. The hockey club has made the school its home since the original pitch was laid over 20 years ago. The surface is well beyond its intended life and is close to not being playable. The club launched a crowdfunding campaign last month and will last for eight weeks where anyone can donate any amount to the campaign via the club’s website. It is also looking for local businesses to support the club long-term with sponsorship. Hailsham Hockey Club player, Rachel Forss (pictured), helped to launch the campaign ‘Pitch In’. Rachel has been conducting research in her role at the University of Brighton on the gravitational effects on lower limb circulation. This led to the opportunity to experience weightlessness during parabolic flights from Bordeaux, France. On one of these flights, she took the opportunity to launch the hockey club’s fundraising efforts. WATCH VIDEO Hailsham Hockey Club has over 100 active members within our junior, men’s and women’s teams. Anyone can donate and get more information by visiting: www.hailshamhockey.co.uk/pitchIn
CALL FOR NEW PLAYERS AT HAILSHAM CRICKET CLUB Have you just moved to the local area or do you want a change of club in 2024? Well, Hailsham Cricket Club is looking for new talent to take part in the 2024 season. The Club has five Saturday league teams, two Roses (ladies) teams and in 2024, it will be in the Sussex Premier League. It also holds two midweek 20/20 teams playing in the Sussex Slam and Development Sunday XI. There’s also Junior training and games for boys and girls aged 4-17. No previous experience or equipment is needed, just a desire to learn and have fun. Teams entered at U10, U111, U12, U13, U13 girls, U14, U16 and U17 girls. For more information, email club Hailshamcc@outlook.com or 07980146841, or check out the club across all socials.
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