Hailsham News, April 2023, Issue 20

EDITOR’S WELCOME

INDEPENDENT RETAILER NOMINATED SECOND YEAR RUNNING FOR PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

MAYBUGS, the independent gift retailer based in Bexhill, Eastbourne and Hailsham has been nominated twice for the prestigious gift retailer awards, The Greats.

The retailer has been nominated for Independent Gift Shop of the Year and Best Retail Initiative at the giftware industry Oscars.

On hearing the news, co-owner Greg Rose said, “Wow! We just can’t believe we have been nominated twice! We were stunned to win the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year award last year and didn’t think for a second that we would be nominated for a second year running. This coupled with an amazing second nomination, for Best Retail Initiative really is the cherry on the cake!”

In the Independent Gift Retailer of The Year — London, South, South-East & East Anglia award they face stiff competition from shops in Colchester, Kensington, Rayleigh, Woodbridge and Woking.

this publication has been recognised in the national newspaper awards.

The last few months have been tense to say the least, after we found out we were shortlisted for the awards which took place at the end of last month. See Page 6 to find out how we got on.

I hope you managed to enjoy the free entertainment in the High Street last month — what a fantastic day of pure entertainment! It was great to see the town centre get a fresh blast of something new — I don’t think I was the only one who was surprised as to how much fun it would be. See our report and photos on the centre pages.

Now, that’s all the good news out of the way. Alongside many thousands of Hailsham residents, I’m becoming increasingly concerned about the level of disturbance the over-development of the area is having on the town.

The roadworks to install electric cables to homes returned recently bringing the town to a standstill, there’s outrage over new homes at Boship and our basic emergency services are struggling to service our residents — something has to change.

It’s not just the fact our daily routines are being disturbed, but I feel there’s more tension than ever amongst our readers and there are risks our mental well-being could start suffering.

What the answer is — I don’t know. All we can do is carry on making our voices heard and not just simply give in to all these huge changes to Hailsham.

Paul Gibson

Group Editor editor@hailsham.news

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. © 2023: No part of this newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole without express permission of the editor.

Greg continued to say: “The Best Retailer Initiative Award nomination is a very special one for us. We worked so hard on our ‘Supporting Independents This Christmas’ initiative. It meant a lot to us to be able to use our large social media presence to highlight many of the other fabulous local independent businesses in all three of our towns. We then coupled this with offering Free-Parking in Eastbourne and Bexhill, which was taken up by hundreds of residents, and we hope it had a positive effect on trade for everyone. To be recognised for this by our industry at a national level means so much to us.”

In the Best Retailer Initiative, Maybugs is up against stores in Highworth, Kirkham, Rayleigh, Tiptree and Troon.

The new Maybugs store in Hailsham is due to open its doors on April 11, located next door to the current store.

BEARDED DRAGON SAVED AFTER BEING DUMPED IN HAILSHAM PARK

Abearded dragon was saved after being found in freezing temperatures in Hailsham. A member of the public found the reptile near the Pavilion at Hailsham Cricket Club on Thursday afternoon (9 March) and contacted the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Rachel Smith said: “Reptiles do not cope well with cold weather and this bearded dragon was saved from freezing conditions. This poor animal would not have survived for long in this cold weather if he hadn’t been found.

“Bearded dragons are endothermic which means they cannot generate their own body heat and need warmth to survive. They are native to Australia so when they are kept in this country they require a heat lamp to keep temperatures high. Had he not been found he would have been at death’s door before long.

“We’re so grateful to the

member of the public who found the lizard at the cricket ground. We’re now making enquiries to find out how it came to be in the park. Unfortunately he was not microchipped and despite making local enquiries no one has come forward.

“We’re urging anyone who has any information about this bearded dragon to contact us in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018.”

The lizard, who has been named Dave, is now in RSPCA care.

Inspector Rachel added: “We know times are tough right now. The RSPCA has launched a new cost of living hub to signpost owners to the lifelines which are available right now as prices rise, including specific advice for exotic animals like this bearded dragon.”

POLICE SEIZE DRUGS AND WEAPONS FROM HELLINGLY HOME

home and seized drugs and weapons.

The raid took place on Grove Hill, Hellingly on March 13 where a search was conducted at the property under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.

A Sussex Police spokesperson told Hailsham News: “A quantity of cannabis and two weapons were seized, namely extendable batons. The warrant was executed as part of an ongoing investigation.”

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FIRM MESSAGE TO SECURE POST OFFICE FUTURE

a huge part of our community and it does come with a cost. We’ve set-up a Sub-committee which has come up with a strategy plan. There are a number of factors within the initiatives we’re working on right now, and we will look at adopting those initiatives and we will be back into a positive business — so we will make money.”

He added: “I believe we’ll be back in the black, initiatives are robust, we’ve got the plans, we’ve got the business strategy in place, we’ve got to work on that over the coming months with the new Councillors or the existing Councillors in the future.”

BACKGROUND

BY PAUL GIBSON

There was a warning to residents recently after questions were asked about the running of the town’s Post Office. The discussion was raised during the Hailsham Town Council annual meeting which is an opportunity for the public to meet councillors, ask questions and raise concerns they have about the town.

Wealden Councillor Neil Cleaver asked the panel during the meeting about the losses made in the running of the Post Office in the High Street which was taken over by the council in 2019. He said: “I noticed the Post Office hasn’t made any money? Why are you losing money? How much money is being thrown at it? What are you doing about it?

Town Clerk, John Harrison confirmed the Post Office does cost the taxpayer to keep it open. He said at the meeting: “It’s not making money, it’s not breaking even, it is being underwritten by the Town Council. 60k a year is being put into underpinning that service.”

He added: “The Council, I think, it’s fair to say, made that decision knowing that it would take a long time to get it back on an even keel. That was, of course, a year before a global pandemic hit the high streets for six. The councillors continue to review the position of the Post Office, there is a subcommittee analysing the income, talking to Post Office Limited about what we can do and how we can increase business.”

The town now has three Post Office outlets. In addition to the High Street premises, independent shops at Hawkstown and at the Cacklebury Stores, which launched a Post Office service last year, all offer the services to residents. Mr Cleaver asked the council if the latest opening had an effect on the town centre branch.

Mr Harrison replied: “Probably. We get a monthly analysis of our income and I think the subcommittee estimated the new Post Office in South Road, may have a it may have a 10% impact on our income, but it’s too early to say what impact is going to have as it’s only been open about four months.”

Councillor Steve Keogh, Chair of the Town Council Finance Committee replied: “This was taken on before my time, however, it’s

It was initially announced in December 2018, the town council announced it had made an application to take over the running of the Post Office after the postmaster who ran the service at the Pipers store retired. It eventually closed to the public on Christmas Eve that year.

It was believed to be the first local authority in the country to take control of its town’s Post Office.

Even before it was taken over, Hailsham News was told by the town council: “We will lose money if we operate the Post Office, it’s certainly not a profit-making exercise. However, we believe the loss is outweighed by keeping people coming into Hailsham to use the Post Office and support the local shops and services.”

It was announced in late January 2019 that the town council had won the contract to run the Post Office, so a Community Interest Company (CIC) which would manage the Post Office was formed and the former staff from Pipers were retained for when services would resume at 10 High Street.

In the meantime, Hawkswood Stores launched its Post Offices services in March 2019, so at least residents had somewhere to go before the High Street branch opened.

After months of work behind the scenes and on the premises itself, the new Post Office was opened on 24th June 2019, and only nine months later, the pandemic took a severe impact on footfall because of lockdown restrictions.

National statistics suggest that between March 2021 and March 2022, the number of post offices rose by 1.9%, returning to around the number seen in March 2020.

Between 2009 and 2020 the number of post offices in the UK remained reasonably consistent.

Over the longer term (since the early 1980s) the number of post offices has almost halved. In return for its government funding, the Post Office is committed to investing in the network, and maintaining around 11,500 branches with no further substantive reductions.

CELEBRATING OVER 100 YEARS OF THE PAVILION

A special plaque is to be installed at the town’s Pavilion later this month to mark its centenary. The blue plaque, believed to be the only one in the area, will be unveiled on the building in George Street - it’ll commemorate Alf Shipman and Sam King, the founders of the Hailsham Pavilion.

In 1921, the two British men were excited about the evolution of moving pictures and seized the opportunity to build their first new cinema in Hailsham. The Pavilion became the jewel in the crown of Shipman & King Cinemas Ltd. It was the first of many stylish picture houses.

The plaque will be unveiled on Friday 28th April at 3pm, and on Saturday 29th, the Pavilion will host an evening of jazz from the 1920s and 1930s performed by Chimera Jazz. It’ll celebrate the founders, Shipman and King, with a short talk from Sam King’s granddaughter who will be launching her book ‘Cinema King – a granddaughter’s memoir’.

All proceeds from the evening and any book sales will go to HOPS supporting The Pavilion. Tickets £10 from Hailsham Pavilion Box Office 01323 841414 or online.

Councillor Neil Cleaver Councillor Steve Keogh

HAILSHAM NEWS IS ONE OF THE UK’S BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Hailsham has one of the best independent community newspapers in the country, according to The Newspaper Awards.

Regional Media Group, the publishers of Hailsham News was shortlisted for a national award to recognise excellence in the news print industry — it was up against seven other titles at the awards ceremony recently.

At a prestigious awards night at The Hilton, on the Southbank in London on 28th March, Hailsham News was shortlisted as ‘Independent Community Newspaper of the Year’. During the evening, the audience heard from Alan Dedicoat, the voice of the National Lottery balls, that “Hailsham News is a good-looking and well produced ‘newsy’ publication with its sister title Bexhill News, the newspaper prints 10,000 copies a month on a bright stock that fly off the shelves in just 10 days.”

Director of the publishing group, and creator of Hailsham News, Paul Gibson commented: “This is such an amazing thing to happen for Hailsham. Who’d thought just 18 months ago we’d have one the best free newspapers in the country?” He added: “This is a massive nod to all the hard

work we’ve put into making sure the town is kept informed with the latest information, news, sport and features. It wouldn’t have been possible without the huge support we’ve had from readers, contributors, and of course the advertisers who ensure the newspaper remains free for people to pick-up.”

Hailsham News was up against some stiff competition in the finals such as the Enfield Dispatch, Hackney Citizen, The Ambler, The Bristol Cable, The Peckham Peculiar, Wells Voice and West Leeds Dispatch. The Peckham Peculiar, the reigning champions, took the award once again.

All of these publications have been in circulation for many years, so Hailsham News has been commended for reaching this level in a relatively

short amount of time.

Gary Cullum, director of Newspaper Awards, said: “Newspaper print is in decline, that is an undeniable fact. However, the printed newspaper remains integral to the success and profitability of the news media industry. Printed newspapers will evolve for many years to come and will continue to be published alongside their digital counterparts.

“The Newspaper Awards focus on production and innovation in national, international, regional, weekly and hyperlocal newspapers. It recognises the skill and expertise of all the employees involved in producing the printed publication.”

The 2023 Newspaper Awards focuses entirely on recognising excellence in the printed newspaper. In 2022, the company launched its second

HELP AFTER FALL

Dear Editor, Please may I say a huge THANK YOU to the people who surrounded me with care and aid after I head-butted the road outside Hampton House.

To the lady who dressed my alarming head wound…I survived. To the ambulance …? Told despite of head wound, and 87yrs, I would have to sit in the road for two hours.

Rescued by humans with love.

Jackie Govier

DIPLOCKS DISGRACE

Dear Editor, Well done on producing a very informative and well written newspaper, which highlights so many local issues.

Having read this month’s issue, I wondered whether you would be able to raise an important issue in your publication.

This relates to the condition of the road surface in Diplocks Way.

This is an important thoroughfare for traffic accessing the industrial units, the A22 and town centre routes and the Gleneagles housing estate. The road surface is in a very dangerous state with large holes appearing along the route which are at least 50mm (2 inches) deep.

These are so deep that cars, vans and trucks are having to swerve around them to avoid damaging their vehicles. People riding their bicycles are particularly vulnerable and I have heard people say that they have to take their lives into their own hands each time they traverse this road.

When you take into account the huge amount of money the businesses in this location pay in business rates they should at least expect the road to be

publication in Bexhill which now has a circulation of 12,000 copies every month. Regional Media Group now has a team of four full-time staff working in the company and has plans to launch its third newspaper in Sussex around September this year.

The company is also making waves online with five popular news websites attracting thousands of impressions each month.

Gibson concluded: “This recognition gives us a real boost to do, what we do, even better. Our expansion this year is likely to see the business double in size which in turn creates local employment opportunities, and in turn, gives communities in Sussex the local news they’ve been missing for many years.

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COME ALONG TO OUR DEMENTIA CAFÉ

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On Wednesday 19 th April we will be hosting our dementia café where you and your loved one will have the opportunity to spend time with others in a warm and friendly environment. Pop in at any time between 10.30am – 12pm, make new friends and enjoy the company of others over a slice of homemade cake.

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WEALDEN COMMUNITY SPORTS HUB PROJECT MOVES FORWARD

BY PAUL GIBSON

People in Hailsham were given an opportunity to see the plans for a huge sports hub which could be built on land north of the Boship roundabout.

A public consultation and exhibition was held at the Wealden District Council offices last month so that residents could see what sports facilities the authority is planning to build on the site.

The Wealden Community Sports Hub is part of the Council’s Corporate Plan and will be part of Knights Farm which is a new industrial development on land at Lower Dicker. The Sports Hub will be an extension to this land, known as Knights Farm East, which extends across the A267

onto the 22-acre plot where the hub is planned. Included in the proposals are two full-size 3G floodlit football pitches, four dual-use floodlit tennis/netball courts, two padel tennis courts along with a walking and cycle route, BMX Pump track, skate park, children’s play area, outdoor tennis tables, outdoor gym equipment and a community café.

Wealden District Council has stated: “Wealden, there is a need for more accessible sport provision, so the idea of a community sports hub emerged, to increase health and wellbeing opportunities for people right across the district.”

Councillor Philip Lunn, Wealden District Council’s portfolio holder for Leisure, said, “It is very exciting to see this project progressing. It will

help address the current deficit of community sports facilities available across Wealden and more importantly, encourage healthier, more active lifestyles for all age groups.”

The public exhibition was to allow residents and stakeholders see the current plans for the Sports Hub, the facilities that are proposed for inclusion and to understand more about how the whole project has developed.

However, although this seems like a massive step forward for sports facilities for the town, the plans fall short of satisfactory according to a local organisation.

Steve Wennington who heads up Hailsham Active, and works with all the local clubs to improve access to sports believes more work

should be done. He told Hailsham News: “We have been campaigning for a sports park for Hailsham for many years, so we should be delighted Wealden has agreed to build one, and to a degree we are. When we started our campaign over ten years ago, Hailsham was 27 acres short of green space for the population (13 football pitches) and since then the town has almost doubled.

“The downside is the location, it limits the scope for any expansion. It has limited parking and very poor access. There’s also no indoor facility, something again, local clubs and indeed schools are desperate for.

He concluded: “Whilst we very much welcome the progress made, we would very much like to work with Wealden, town and parish councils, schools and local surgeries to try and fill some of the gaps. We believe there are opportunities to upgrade and open up school facilities, upgrade existing sports and recreation grounds (something we are actively working on), and if we can become integral to conversations with our infrastructure teams and district and county level, we can show simple ways to link communities.”

Hailsham Active has been working with Sport England, Fields In Trust, Active Sussex and many others and believes it can help influence better

LAURIE’S POEM CORNER

Another fantastic offering from the heartfelt depths of Laurie Wilkinson, yet again his new book Illuminating Verse stirs emotions with vivid poetry to illuminate our lives and beyond.

Another poem, Inner Tears won a prestigious festival poetry competition in 2022, and very topically there are also three poems about the NHS and Laurie’s recent experience of being in hospital for the very first time in his life.

His chosen poem for this month is a simple but meaningful one. It outlines how life can pan out for us at times, and how we should appreciate the good experiences, whilst facing stoically the less happy events.

WILL

Well weeks will come and weeks will go

And months soon follow in life’s flow. But days we enjoy will pass by quick, Whilst tougher times go slow.

So then we must remain steadfast

With our resolve strong and unbowed, As all of us will have our turn

To be under a sad, tragic cloud. For nothing in this world is given

To remain the same, or even arrive.

So grab those moments of delight

And just celebrate you’re alive!

There will of course be time for sorrow

With that very time going slow, So try to cry behind your mask

Because others may not know.

MR. JONES AT THE MOVIES

THE STING

Well at least that’s what I try to do Not that I think men shouldn’t cry. But I shed my tears in private So the world doesn’t puzzle why This chap with a constant smile And a jokes all-day token, May continue to laugh and grin, When inside his heart has broken.

So back we will go to the weeks Which pass according to our fate, But whether going quick or slow We should retain a grateful state.

SUPPORTING AND DONATING TO HELP FOR HEROES

www.lauriewilkinson.com

At the 1974 Oscars this film picked up seven, including Best Film and Best Director, having been nominated for 10. I have it on DVD and I’ve watched it countless times, although I always enjoy it more in a cinema, especially when surrounded by people who have never seen it before and so don’t know what The Sting actually is.

Masterfully plotted and beautifully designed, costumed and filmed by (in order) David S Ward, Henry Bumstead, Edith Head and Robert Surtees it is perhaps most famous for the use of Scott Joplin’s, The Entertainer and for the star trio that headline the cast. That being Robert Redford, Paul Newman and the very menacing Robert Shaw.

I think the real quality of the film though is explained by the background of the Director, George Roy Hill. He came from the world of theatre, including Broadway. He also worked on and off Broadway as a Director and after he gave up working in the movies, he went on to teach acting at Yale. He was clearly an Actor’s Director and was well placed to get the best out of the cast, all of whom deliver excellent performances.

It was Hill who insisted on Redford and Newman, who he had already directed in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, resisting studio pressure to cast Jack Lemmon and Warren Beatty.

You can catch this classic at the Hailsham Pavilion on April 4th. Details from the website.

GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES

Also at the Pavilion, on April 21st, you can catch this Golden Oldie. There are elements here which make it quite difficult to watch in the 2020’s, especially with the benefit of hindsight. It is worth it though because it gives you a perspective on developing attitudes. This is a vehicle movie for Jane Russell and Marilyn Monroe. It is regarded by some as the peak of Jane Russell’s career and as one of the films that established Marilyn Monroe as the iconic American sex symbol. It is based on the Broadway Musical Comedy, and those two nuggets explain why the action stops on a regular basis to allow for lavish song and dance routines, including the very famous Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend

I think it is Marilyn Monroe’s character that I found most uncomfortable. She is presented as a painted doll whose only aim in life is to get rich by exploiting affluent men who are all only too willing to be exploited, and love has definitely got nothing to do with it.

Monroe later married the playwright Arthur Miller (Death of A Salesman, The Crucible and many more). She also enrolled at the Actors Studio and studied with Lee Strasberg. Her library contained over 400 books ranging across a wide range of subjects and authors and I find myself wondering what this sensitive, wounded soul was thinking as they sowed her into her dress for yet another sequin laden sequence. Definitely thought-provoking.

HailshamEvents

EASTER BUNNY HUNT

Monday 3 April - Wednesday 5 April www.hailsham-tc.gov.uk/news/cryptic-easter-hunt-to-be-launched-forfamilies-in-hailsham-2-2/

NETWORKING

HAILSHAM & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MONTHLY NETWORKING MEETING

Every First Thursday of the month, 7.30am

B12 Bar & Kitchen, Hight Street, Hailsham

Members £12, Non-Members/Guests £15. Register and pay at: hailshamchamberofcommcerce.co.uk/next-meeting. Become a member for £90pa per business.

BIZZYBIRDS NETWORKING GROUP FOR WOMEN

Every Third Thursday of the month, 10am-12 noon

B12 Bar & Kitchen, High Street, Hailsham

A networking group for women in the East Sussex area. Coffee, chat, advice, growth. Support, help and more! Meet like-minded women in business. £10 pre-booking via Paypal to jane@bizzybirds.co.uk

MARKETS

HAILSHAM STREET MARKET

Every Saturday – 9am-1pm. Vicarage Field, Hailsham

Hailsham’s only weekly market! Visit and select local quality food, gifts, crafts, confectionery and more. And when you’re done you can pop into one of the town’s popular establishments for some brunch, lunch or just a drink. Make a day of it!

HAILSHAM FARMERS’ PRODUCE & CRAFT MARKET

Every Second Saturday of the month – 9am-12.30pm

Cattle Market, Market Street, Hailsham

Pop by to visit and select local quality traceable produce and crafts, including fresh and cured meats, vegetables, plants, freshly laid eggs, freshly made bread, honey, chutneys, candles, beeswax body lotion and hand-made cards, plus lots more. Free on-site parking.

CLUBS

HAILSHAM YOUTH SERVICE & FRIDAY NIGHT PROJECT

VARIOUS DATES, LOCATIONS & PRICES – PLEASE CHECK WEBSITE

A range of recreational activities and events are organised at venues including Knockhatch Adventure Park, Knockhatch Ski Centre, Freedom Leisure and the James West Community Centre, for young people in Hailsham aged 11-17 (school years 7-11) and are invited to attend activities and take advantage of the opportunities available through the Friday Night Project (FNP). For more details: http://www.hailshamyouthservice.org/

PASSITONINYOURCOMMUNITYCICCOMMUNITYFRIDGE

Monday-Friday, Hailsham East Children’s Centre on Vega Close, Town Farm, 10am-4pm. Saturdays and Sundays, James West Community Centre, Brunel Drive, 10am-12noon. Open to the whole community. No forms to fill in and no referrals. We collect good food wasted by supermarkets 7 evenings a week for our 2 community fridges. Everyone is welcome. We ask that you only bring one bag per family and be mindful of others when taking food. There is plenty every day. At Vega Close, we also have our clothes library and our affordable Community Kitchen open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday where you can enjoy lunch or a drink.

HELLINGLY COMMUNITY HUB

The Drive, Hellingly, BN27 4EP.

Helli-hubs — Free Parent & Baby/Toddler Group — Every Monday: 8.30-10am. Young at Heart — Over 60’s Club — Every Monday: 10.30am-12.30pm Ukraine Support & Social Group — Chat, support and advice. Every Monday: 12.30pm-3pm.

HAILSHAM FRIENDS CLUB

NOTE NEW LOCATION: Kings Head, Cacklebury, South Road, Hailsham

Thursday 6 & 20 April, 10.30am-12noon

For people who live alone or care for someone. We have many activities like walks, holidays, day trips, lunches and it’s a good way to make friends. Drop-in to pick up a print of our events, have a chat and a cup of tea/coffee. The Kings Head is half way down South Road and has free parking. Tel: 01323 893340 / Web: www.hailsham-friends.club / Email: ken@hailsham-friends.club

HAILSHAM COMMUNITY CAFE

Every Second Thursday of the Month, 2pm-4pm

St Wilfrid’s Church, South Road, Hailsham, BN27 3JG

A FREE service with entertainment, activities, and refreshments for local people. The monthly class consists of dementia-friendly entertainment

such as craft sessions, music and sing-alongs and activity times, followed by refreshments and time to stand and socialise. Provided in partnership with Home Instead Eastbourne & Hailsham and Wealden Dementia Action Alliance. Our ‘Hailsham Community Café’ is held every second Thursday of every month 2-4pm at St. Please call to book your place - 01323 819191

HAILSHAM LEGO® CLUB – INSTRUCTIONS NOT REQUIRED

Wednesday afternoons 4.15-5.45pm

Summerheath Hall, Summerheath Road, BN27 3DR

With over 100kg of Lego to build with, including a selection of sets with instructions to build. Whether you would rather free build with the piles of Lego available, take part in the weekly build challenge or, dare we say it, build a kit model with instructions, the choice is yours. As long as you love Lego we’re here for you. Booking essential: instructionsnotrequired.co.uk/booking

HAILSHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Every Thursday at 7.30pm

Hellingly Community Hub, The Drive, Hellingly, BN27 4EP

The Society meets every Thursday from September to May. There are still a limited number of membership vacancies available. If you are interested in considering membership, please get in touch via the website or in person. Website www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk

HAILSHAM PAVILION

George Street, Hailsham

Adults: £8; Concessions (U15, OAP, Stu): £6.50; Matinees £6; Kids For a Quid (Child) £1, (Others) £6. Marcel the Shell, With Shoes On - 3-6 April. A Man Called Otto - 7-13 April. Golden Oldies - Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - 21 April, 2pm. Puss In Boots: The Last Wish - Autism Friendly Screening - 22-23 April HOPS Jazz Night - 29 April, 7pm. Advance booking is required at https:// hailshampavilion.co.uk/

HAILSHAM RUN

10K, 5K, 3K & 1M runs starting from 9.30am, Hailsham HIgh Street

Sunday 21 May 2023

Four different distances depending on age and ability. There will be toilets on site, including a disabled Mobiloo, baggage storage, car parking, and refreshment from local cafes. Organisers Hailsham Active have partnered with the Town Council (which has provided funding for the event) and Sport Systems to welcome participants in the Hailsham Active Run. FULL DETAILS: hailshamactiverun.co.uk.

THE HAILSHAM CLUB

THE HAILSHAM CLUB IS A PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB FOR THE OVER 18S ESTABLISHED IN 1920 AND CONVENIENTLY SITUATED IN THE CENTRE OF TOWN

Bingo

Fresh Water Fishing Section

Wheel of Chance

Entertainment

Themed Evenings

Darts

Drinks Raffle

Fundraisers

Snooker Tables

Meat Raffle

Poker

Snooker League

Shove Halfpenny

Quiz Night

Sea Fishing Section

Whist

WE ARE A VENUE FOR LOCAL GROUPS INCLUDING ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, PROBUS AND WI. OUR KITCHEN SERVES LIGHT LUNCHES FROM 11am TO 2pm ON TUESDAY AND FRIDAYS

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME, MEMBERSHIP FORMS AVAILABLE FROM THE BAR.

MEMBERSHIP ENROLMENT HELD ON 1st THURSDAY EACH MONTH.

MONKSEY’S MUTTERINGS

THROUGH THICK & THIN

Are corporate businesses changing the meaning of words in the English language?

They seem to be if the descriptions on their packaging are taken at face value, although I don’t expect my sweet and sour chicken balls to be literal!

When I was a kid growing up, a bacon butty was a meal in itself with two paving slabs of bread, also a couple of slices of bacon that could have been used as surfboards that the purchasers of Hailsham’s new ‘flood plain’ homes could use to float to the shops on.

Obviously, the obligatory ketchup or brown sauce was slathered on in abundance but the choice will always be controversial, Natalie (my other half) insists on putting vinegar on the bread…does anyone else do this?

After a busy week of magishing (if it isn’t a word then it should be) at ExCeL in London and then up to Manchester, I decided my treat was a Sunday morning bacon sandwich, at my age that’s the best I can manage on a Sunday morning.

Having purchased the thick sliced white bread and the pack of thick sliced bacon, my morning was to be completed with a big cup of coffee, not the posh one but a normal cup of instant because back in the day we’d never heard of a ‘Grande blended macchiato with soy and skimmed yak’s milk with extra foam and a hazelnut shot’…coffee used to come out of a jar and not a dictionary or a recipe book.

Having opened the bread, I wondered if Warburton, Hovis or Kingsmill know that their

whiter than my under crackers and doubtless tastier too but nowhere near as much fun to open…back down ladies, I’m not single!

The bacon wasn’t much better, I am guessing they based the ‘thick’ part on the educational prowess of the pig, either that or the pig was anorexic I’m surprised it didn’t wander out through the gaps in the gate as it was thinner than East Sussex Highway’s pothole repair policy.

The real question though is this… should vinegar go on the bread in a bacon sandwich?

Add your opinion to the poll by visiting the Hailsham News website and casting your vote, it’s potentially as meaningful as voting for a political party, so add your thoughts and prove me right or wrong.

Until next time.

Brad Monks: www.verymagic.co.uk

EVERGREEN CABIN PROJECT SET TO LAUNCH FOLLOWING GREEN BUS FIRE TRAGEDY

FOLLOWING a fire which destroyed the popular ‘Big Green Bus’ in April last year, a replacement project is expected to be ready this Summer.

The Big Green Bus, which was located at the glamping site at Laughton, was renovated into a stunning place to stay for visitors.

The project was featured on Channel 4’s George Clarkes Amazing Spaces in 2013.

The destroyed bus was painstakingly taken apart following the blaze and removed from the site over a two-month period. It’s made way for a brand-new project, called Evergreen Cabin, which will be a sustainable, recycled place to stay constructed from four 20ft shipping containers. Brainchild of the green bus and cabin projects, Adam Collier-Woods, said: “My lovely old bus had given so much joy to so many people over the last nine years but was sadly lost in a fire in April 2022, so I set out to design something completely different as a replacement. After a bit of adjustment to the design for planning, I came up with the idea of Evergreen Cabin, a totally recycled creation made from four 20ft shipping containers!”

“As the containers are reclaimed (these ones came on a ship from China), I wanted to use mainly recycled materials throughout the build. Even the fabulous spiral staircase came out of an old stable. With the cabin’s living roof and the whole thing powered by solar, Evergreen Cabin, is as its name suggests, very green indeed.”

The Evergreen Cabin promises to feature enormous picture windows, two double bedrooms with accommodation for up to six people, a wood fire hot tub, cooking fire pit and a full-size kitchen and bathroom.

It’ll be fully open and will welcome its first guests in August this year. Bookings are now available with a 20% deposit by visiting the website at www.evergreencabin.co.uk.

HAILSHAM GIRLS STEAL NATIONS’ HEARTS AFTER CRUFTS PERFORMANCE

A seven-year-old girl from Hailsham stole the show at Crufts, as well as the hearts of the nation, when she took part in BASC Young Handler’s class at the world’s biggest dog show last week.

Described by host Clare Balding as “just brilliant” and “so cute”, seven-year-old Daisy Upton from Hailsham competed in BASC’s Young Handler class on Gundog Day, the opening day of Crufts 2023.

Daisy’s mum Chloe explained to presenter Radzi Chinyanganya live on More4, how Daisy had been treated for neuroblastoma – a type of cancer that Daisy refers to as a “monster” in her tummy – when

she was six months old, spending nine months in The “monster” has left Daisy with long-term health issues but she was determined to take part to prove that, despite her disabilities, she can achieve her dreams.

Admitting to Radzi that she was nervous, Daisy introduced him to her dog Nova.

Daisy was determined to show off her skills and as she did, in front of a huge crowd.

In 2018, Hailsham News published the Upton families appeal to raise funding for a specially trained dog to help Chloe’s medical conditions. The campaign resulted in taking on Nova, who is now a massive part of the family.

Nova is a trained, specialist dog, which detects low blood sugars, as Daisy now suffers from Hypoglycaemia which could put her life at risk if her blood sugar levels drop dangerously without warning.

BLUEBELL WALK PREPARES TO REOPEN FOR ITS 50TH YEAR RAISING CHARITY MONEY

THE iconic Arlington Bluebell Walk, near Hailsham, is preparing to open for its landmark 50th season this month.

Owner John McCutcheon is hoping for record numbers in what is a very special year for him personally, and also for his talented and devoted team. The most visitors in any one year was 23,000 in 2019 — and John is confident this can now be beaten.

He said: “Being our 50th anniversary makes it a very special year indeed on the Arlington Bluebell Walk. We will be open daily for four weeks from April 11 until May 10, and of course supporting local charities is at the heart of what we do.

“There will be 19 charities managing the walks and supporting the refreshments, and they will each receive a substantial donation from the overall proceeds.”

The Arlington Bluebell Walk is very special to John. He works on the land 365 days a year.

His late wife Carolyn also created the most wonderful garden around the Farmhouse which has been renovated since her death and for the first time has been honoured to be a Royal Horticultural Society Partner Garden 2023.

John wanted to do something extra special for the 50th anniversary. He said: “We have created a bird feeding station and we will be using a large screen to beam it into the catering area.

“What could be better than having a cup of tea listening to the birds? It will be so lovely. We aim to

ANGER VOICES OVER POLEGATE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE PLANS

The plans for five large warehouses covering 84,100 square metres, 2,790 square metres of office space, parking for 900 cars and 246 HGVs, have been submitted to Wealden District Council.

Polegate Town Council Planning Committee discussed the plans at its monthly meeting last night and heard from local residents who had concerns over light pollution from the site which is designed to be operational 24/7 according to the plans.

They were also worried about the increase in local traffic, noise and the loss of wildlife on the site which is currently used for summer boot fairs and low-key festivals.

are making 18 mobility scooters available. Back in 2019, they were used 500 times so I am confident this will be popular.

“Over the year we have raised £890.291 for local charities. That was always so important to Carolyn and myself.”

The garden is open every Wednesday from 10am until 4pm, also every day the Bluebell Walk is open. Entrance is £6 per adult, £3 for children aged between 3 and 16, and £16 for a family ticket, two adults and up to four children. Just turn up. Go to www.bluebellwalk.co.uk or email: info@bluebellwalk.co.uk. Also visit www.batesgreengarden.co.uk for garden details.

Access to and from the industrial estate will be via a junction joining the current A22 Hailsham Bypass, which the working HGVs and staff will use on a daily basis.

During the Planning meeting, Councillor Malcolm Cunningham said: “I’m 100% against the proposals simply because I love Polegate and this development is totally unsuitable for the area.”

One resident told the committee: “We live just yards from the site and our lives will be made hell if this goes ahead with 24/7 noise and light pollution and all the extra traffic on the already congested A22.”

The committee from Polegate Town Council all voted in favour to object the application which will be sent to WDC.

The application was also discussed by Hailsham Town Council Planners this evening (Tuesday) as consultees. It was decided to delay any comment on the project until East Sussex County Council has submitted its comments on how the development would effect its own Transport Strategy Plan.

ESCC has requested more time to comment.

FAMILIES ENJOY FREE ENTERTAINMENT FROM AMAZING STREET PERFORMERS

IN times of doom and gloom, Hailsham received an incredible boost recently (11 March) as the town centre was taken over with a host of free entertainment.

As part of the Shared Prosperity Fund from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Wealden District Council organised the ‘The Streets of Wealden’ event which saw a Bexhillbased company, 18 hours, brought joy to the town for one day only enjoyed by hundreds of shoppers.

Alongside an extended Spring Market, shoppers were entertained by the fantastic ‘Granny Turismo’, a couple of so-called ‘Grannies’ who paraded their adapted shopping trollies around town and performed a highly amusing act with dance and prizes for children.

The ‘Sea Sphere’ globe also made an appearance, wowing audiences alongside the UK African Acrobats who balanced everything from chairs to children during their act.

There’s been nothing but praise online following the day of entertainment. There’s been hundreds of comments on Facebook praising the organisers for a great event.

The Streets of Wealden initiative has seen performances hit the

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU’RE VOTING FOR AT THE LOCAL ELECTIONS

BY GREG ROSE

We’re not kidding! For the first time ever, if you want to vote in the Local Elections on 4th May, you will need to have photo ID!

So that’s either; a passport, photo driving license, blue badge, Oyster 60+ card, EEA Card, UK biometric residence permit, concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government or local authority or a PASS card.

With both District and Town elections taking place, many of us will vote with long-held and ingrained party allegiances, but have you ever actually thought beyond the colour, what am I actually voting for, will it make a difference, and what do they spend my money on?

Most residents know that Wealden District Council is responsible for bins and planning, but what else does that do in that big building?

Are they responsible for roads and potholes?

The simple answer is no, that falls under East Sussex County Council, and those next elections aren’t until 2024.

However, some of Wealden’s other responsibilities include; Council housing,

benefits, leisure facilities, environmental health, licensing, tourism and regeneration and off street parking.

Hailsham Town Council is also up for election too, as are many of the neighbouring parishes. But what do they actually do? Do you have a loved one at the Cemetery? Does your area has enough dog waste bins? Should there be more or less town events? Are the community green spaces looked after?

These are some of the responsibilities the Town Council can spend your money on. In addition, representing local views on important topics at District and County levels is a key role of Town Councils, as they have some power in influencing these higher local authorities and generally have direct contacts and regular meetings.

Do councillors get paid? No, many of them have full-time jobs or are retired and effectively volunteer as a Councillor to better their local areas.

However, once elected, all councillors are entitled to an annual allowance to cover their time and expenses. District is £4846, and Town is £1358. Committee Chair Persons, Portfolio

Holders, Cabinet Members and the Council Leader and or Mayor generally are entitled to an increased allowance due to the extra responsibilities and workload. These allowances are subject to normal income tax and national insurance payments.

POLITICAL PARTIES OR INDEPENDENTS?

You’re likely to get at least one leaflet through your letterbox from each of the traditional political parties, with statements of what they have done and what they will do for the local area.

These leaflets are funded by the political parties themselves and delivered by their army of voluntary supporters. These political manifestos are designed to appeal to voters and much research goes into what will make you put an ‘x’ in the box for them.

Some of the time it’s what not has been written which can be the most interesting or most influential on the way you might vote, so doing research online can really help decipher and read between the lines.

Independents however generally don’t have the available funds themselves to produce leaflets

and are unlikely to have the support of enough people to deliver to all of the wards in which they are standing.

So, searching out the independents on social media and understanding why they want your vote is sometimes the only way to get a balanced view of all the candidates standing. Independent candidates at local level can have a real impact in making a local communities voice heard on particular issues, as they aren’t bound by political party rules, manifestos or beliefs.

However, on the flip side of this, actually getting something which is proposed by an independent councillor actioned, is a lot more difficult as they need to get cross-party support and enough votes to get a majority.

There’s sure to be a full deck of great candidates standing for all Party colours, and many super Independents too. So whichever way you end up voting be sure to hunt them all out and ask yourselves, why do they want your vote? what will they actually do and stand for? As it really can make a difference to our local area.

If you’re interested in standing for election as either a District or Town Councillor on 4th May, you need to get your skates on. The cut of for nomination papers to be received is 4pm on Tuesday 4th April, you can find full details of how to stand as a candidate on the Wealden District Council website.

The list of candidates is due to be published on the 5th April, and you’ll find the full run down on our website soon after they are made public.

For the first time ever this year, if you want to vote in the Local Elections on 4th May, you will need to have photo ID!

So that’s either; a passport, photo driving license, blue badge, Oyster 60+ card, EEA Card, UK biometric residence permit, concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government or local authority or a PASS card.

If you don’t have valid photo ID, then you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate on gov.uk website, but don’t leave it too late as the cut-off is 25th April. If you don’t have photo ID or a certificate on the 4th May, then you will not be allowed to cast your vote.

KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

JOBS FOR APRIL

Last month we enjoyed the uplifting colour from early flowering shrubs such as Forsythia and Ribes. Forsythia, the Golden Bells, flowers very early in the year, giving us all a vibrant reminder that the days are lengthening, and that spring will come. I like to cut lots of the long, arching flowering stems from the shrub and bring them in for table decorations, this also helps to stimulate growth of once the flowers are fading, you can cut one-third of

The same pruning principle can be applied to Ribes, their unique feline-related fragrance, I personally do valuable as a source of nectar for bees foraging early

Pink’ here at Bates Green, it has a soft gentle quality and good autumn colour too.

We are still enjoying the chintzy colours of hellebores. I was concerned that they would be less floriferous this year after such a dry summer in 2022. However, they are looking glorious, possibly because we mulch then with our homemade compost at the end of every year, and this improves the water-holding capacity of the soil around the plants which is what hellebores enjoy.

Hellebores are known as ‘promiscuous’ plants and produce masses of seedings if allowed to do so. One can never tell whether the resulting hybrid will be a good strong colour until three or four years later. If you have the space and the inclination, letting your plants seed themselves around can be fun but if you want to control this then once the flowers start to fade, carefully deadhead the plants cutting the old flowering stem right back to the base. If you want to increase your collection, visit a specialist nursery or make a diary note to divide

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

similar, they are ideal as, being twiggy, the tendrils of the sweet pea obtain good purchase and quickly scramble up the stems.

Dig in plenty of organic matter, whatever you can get hold of, and put in 2 plants for every upright support stem. These will need to be checked and tied in with soft twine regularly as they will grow like the clappers providing you feed and water them regularly. At Bates Green Garden, the blue tits regularly forage our twine for their nests. We do not mind, we just replace.

your favourite hellebores with a sharp spade in early autumn, this method of propagation will ensure a clone of the mother plant. I will write more about the best places to buy plants from at a later date. There is absolutely nothing quite like the fragrance of sweet peas. To me, they are the very essence of summer and one of the great pleasures of life is to gather your own posies regularly so that your house is filled with this very special scent. In order to do this, you must plant out your sweet peas this month.

If you do not have your own seedlings, then they are available to purchase as young plants. Acclimatise them to the outside world for at least a week before planting to prevent much ongoing sulking.

You will need to provide your plants with some kind of support on which to grow, a wigwam of bamboo stems preferably covered with a ‘netting’ of rough twine, a beautiful metal archway if you happen to have one or you can create an organic structure made from hazel stems. These ‘pea sticks’ can often be purchased from farm shops or

You can grow sweet peas in a container, again with a support structure but do remember that they are hungry, thirsty plants and so their maintenance will be more onerous this way. Always worth it though.

My favourite cultivars are always chosen for their knockout scent. Lathyrus ‘Matucana’ is a modern grandiflora type with deep maroon and violet bicoloured petals. It is not going to give you long, exhibition type stems but has the best sweet pea fragrance of all. If you fancy your chances at your local flower show but still want to fill your rooms with fragrance, then I would recommend L. ‘Albutt Blue’. This semi-grandiflora is white with a beautiful blue edge and a truly terrific scent. It also bears long stems which are great for showing.

‘April Showers bring May Flowers’

This proverb is one we can all relate to, I interpret it as meaning that adversity is often followed by good fortune, the rain we hopefully receive this month will benefit our gardens and plots for the whole of the growing season ahead.

Ribes Pokeys Pink. Photo: John Glover

Hellebores. Photo: MMGI/Bennet Smith Sweet Peas

HAILSHAM AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE

BY PRESIDENT CLIVE SOPER

The beginning of a new year for Hailsham and District Chamber of Commerce and one which promises to be both exciting and productive.

We’re coming to the end of our year, I’ve been President for a year and it’s time for our AGM and to focus on the forthcoming year. Our AGM took place at the B12 Bar & Kitchen on Thursday the 23rd March, a bleak blustery rainy night but a sizeable group of diehard members made it to the meeting.

Firstly, I would like to express my thanks to Melvyn Funnell-Strange and his superb team for their continued support and hospitality, not only is it much appreciated but is one of the foundations of the Chambers success this year.

Our speaker for the event was Rob Reaks of Lightning Fibre who spoke about the development of the company and the rollout of Full Fibre Broadband in Hailsham, across Wealden and into other Districts of East Sussex such as Bexhill.

The whole ethos of Lightning Fibre is about providing a fantastic product supported by exceptional service which is why his offer of FREE broadband to all our members, either existing or new, for six months is so exciting.

Because Rob made the announcement at our AGM, I have not had the time to include the terms and conditions in this article, but they will be on our web site shortly, but a truly amazing offer making membership of Hailsham and District Chamber of Commerce exceptional value for money to the business community, and that’s without including ALL the other benefits of membership which can be found on our site.

During the meeting I was pleased to announce

that membership was now around 100 businesses and predicted to continue rising during the next year partly due to the Lightning Fibre offer, but also as a result of other factors such as the friendly support we offer our members, the exciting range of events we provide for our membership which will include new events during the year.

Additionally, our proposal for a Zero Carbon BID for Hailsham and District is now really starting to excite businesses to the possibilities created for commerce of all types in Hailsham and District. I am also pleased to report that Wealden District Council have re-enforced its support for the BID with Beth Heritage, Economic Development Officer becoming their BID champion and our point of contact at Wealden.

Earlier in the month, I had a very positive meeting with Beth where I outlined the latest status of the BID including the appointment of a BID Development Board which will have its inaugural meeting following the AGM so expect more developments next month.

Amongst business carried out at the AGM was the re-election of the committee for another twelve month term and also my re-election.

March started with our most successful breakfast since COVID with every seat taken and a lively meeting and our guest speaker Shaun May of May Connections who gave a very interesting presentation of his business and the services they provide to their clients including renewable energy and EV chargers.

Our breakfast meetings are a real chance to network with fifty other businesses in the Hailsham District, and members indicated during the meeting that a number of successful

transactions had taken place and business relationships have developed. The worst case is that our members enjoy a friendly breakfast meeting and develop long term relationships both socially and for business.

The Chamber also has regular monthly Lunch meetings taking place on the third Thursday of each month where members meet over lunch to informally discuss business opportunities, the BID and many other subjects of interest, this month we met at The Cottage Restaurant on the Polegate By-Pass where we enjoyed an inspiring Italian menu, friendly atmosphere, and great company.

The food was beautifully presented and excellent with our hosts being friendly and polished, another superb Hailsham Chamber Business lunch, well supported and enjoyed by all.

Following our AGM the Chamber is poised for an exciting year and I look forward to reporting more exciting news and events next year, but my final act this month is to welcome our new members who are: Eastbourne MG, MS Steelworks, Knockhatch Adventure Park and Switchplane Ltd, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to our new members and am looking forward to their involvement in our friendly and very active Chamber.

CHAMBER MEMBERS COLLABORATING

The Hailsham Eye has teamed up with Town City Cards to give you an amazing offer of 2 for 1 on a Hailsham Card. This is a saving of £12 and gives you discounts all over town and even East Sussex when you use it. Not only can you use it with participating businesses in Hailsham but also in Hastings, Bexhill,

Businesses range from Days Out, Eating Out, Shopping and much more, you will have a lot of fun using this card and you will be buying and spending locally.

Clive Soper gets relected as President Rob Reaks from Lightning Fibre

now moving on to the future!

A HOME FROM HOME

Woodside Hall Nursing Home is a luxury nursing home set in four acres of secluded gardens and woodland. We are an independently-owned nursing home nestled between the two small towns of Hailsham and Polegate, East Sussex. During this current climate we are offering, a caring & relaxing environment for pre and post respite care.

We have garden rooms with stunning scenery, over our extensive landscaped grounds.

WE ARE NOW OPEN FOR VACANCIES

Polegate

info@woodsidehall.co.uk woodsidehall-nh.co.uk

Hailsham House is proud to announce the opening of Beech House – a newly refurbished 32bed care facility situated in the grounds of the home. Beech House boasts the latest automated care/ call-system for people with dementia and nursing care needs.

The beautifully designed rooms, which are all en-suite, are decorated to the personal taste of each resident before they arrive. Beech House is also home to an on-site hair and beauty salon, a deluxe spa bathroom,relaxing communal areas and beautiful landscaped gardens.

The on-site wellbeing services, kitchenettes and laundry facilities provide the perfect blend of independent living with 24-hour support – an ideal way to transition if a little extra care is required. Hailsham House has always been highly regarded for its friendly, effective care.

A beautifully appointed café called ‘Daphne’s’ is situated in the main communal area of Beech House creating a warm and friendly community atmosphere. Residents

can relax, dine and socialise with friends, family and staff throughout the day. The café was named after Daphne Marchant, a former resident of Hailsham House and the mother-in-law to John Godden, Director of Salutem senior Living – the home’s new management company.

Although separate to the main home, Beech House is set within the grounds of Hailsham House providing easy access between both homes. This allows the home to cater for couples with varying needs, allowing them to remain together and find the right package to suit them both.

Beech House is surrounded by the most beautiful gardens which can be enjoyed all year round. The site also has an allotment where many residents enjoy spending time helping to grow and produce fresh fruit and vegetables which are donated to the local food banks. If you would like to find out more about Beech House, or if you would like a guided tour of the home, please get in touch.

SINGER-SONGWRITER WOWS THE CROWD WITH BRILLIANT SHOW AT THE DE LA WARR

My dancing days are long behind me these days but even I rose to my feet for a dad boogie during some of the more upbeat numbers.

KT Tunstall is still a star and on the evidence of this particular

COLLABORATION LAUNCHED TO PROMOTE PERSONAL WELL-BEING

Emma continued her yogic journey through both pregnancies and found a safe haven in her practice while nurturing her growing family.

Emma is a wonderful healer dedicated to helping you feel at ease in your own skin! She’s an expert in boosting energy levels, promoting inner peace with mindfulness, and using the magic of yoga to alleviate pain caused by various ailments and injuries

LUCINDA STEEDEN — HOLISTIC SLEEP CONSULTANT

Lucinda then held the Sleep masterclass where we learned what sleep is for, how we sleep and what happens when we don’t get the quality of sleep we need.

Lucinda is a Sleep Consultant and super mum of three fabulous girls nestled in a charming cottage near Heathfield. She’s driven to help families reach their highest potential through better sleep health and well-being. Occupying a truly distinctive role, Luncinda works with babies, children and adults. For over a decade, Lucinda gained impressive expertise in mattress and pillow knowledge from some of the most acclaimed brands in the beds retail business — Hypnos, Tempur, ViSpring & Harrison Spinks.

Lucinda pursued her love of health and well-being to an even deeper level, becoming a Sleep Practitioner (OCN Level 5), Early Years Neuroscience expert, and Insomnia Specialist. Through this intensive training she was able to create the innovative business: SleepP – providing invaluable support for those seeking quality sleep solutions. Lucinda will, quite literally, make your dreams come true!

BETH MCLENAHAN — HOLISTIC WELLNESS COACH AND HEALTHY-LIFE STYLIST

Beth treated us to a delightful session exploring the world of nutrition. Through engaging discussion, we discovered what our dietary habits were and how to use government recommendations for leading healthier lifestyles. A wonderful session that left us all feeling energised and excited about bettering ourselves nutritionally.

Stime to join up and soak up some valuable insight into holistic health!

Last month, I attended The Three Pillar Solution event — an innovative workshop designed to help tackle our health issues. Harnessing three key components of well-being, this practical experience led me on a journey towards improved physical and mental prosperity.

I had already met Lucinda from my networking. Founder of

techniques, nutrition enthusiast Beth who shared valuable insights into healthy eating practices, plus a specialist session by Lucinda herself who shared her knowledge into how to improve our sleeping habits.

The workshop was fully booked with 10 health participants, including myself at the beautiful event room of Cartlodge, within the stunning grounds of Horam Manor.

EMMA STENNING — TREE FROG YOGA

Emma opened the workshop with a yoga session that helped us open up our chests, relax and strengthen our cores. She was an incredible instructor who taught us how to breathe while stretching into each movement so we felt calmer than ever before. Most of all, it was great to have someone talk you through every move as I had never been part of a group Yoga class before — I’d only ever been on my own at home using Wii Fit! Meet Emma, a dedicated yogi for 15 years, who transformed her life through the power of hatha and vinyasa yoga. After experiencing unbearable back pain, she found relief and a new passion for yoga that she now shares with her two young children. They enjoy breathwork and meditation, using it to enhance their daily lives at school and home. Grateful for this healing practice,

Beth helps women live their best lives through holistic wellness coaching. Her certified expertise guides them on the path to improved health, weight management and ultimate well-being — body, mind and spirit! With her background in PE and Food & Nutrition teaching, she is uniquely equipped with knowledge that makes healthy lifestyle changes effortlessly achievable for all.

After two decades of helping young minds navigate a healthy lifestyle, Beth has shifted her focus to women who are taking positive steps towards enhancing their mental and physical wellbeing.

After our lesson, Beth invited us to try her creative and tasty meal-in-a-jar: the healthy hotpot! It’s an ultraportable way to enjoy a nutritious dish — just add some boiling water to enjoy as a ‘healthy pot noodle’ or simply empty it into a bowl to eat as a salad when ready. Packed with nourishing ingredients such as a soy sauce, lime and miso paste base, already-prepared rice noodles, raw red cabbage, grated carrots, red peppers, edamame beans, pak choi, mushrooms, tofu, fresh coriander and chillies — you can customise your meals for days ahead then take them on the go any time of day. A perfect blend of convenience without compromising flavour or health benefits, ensuring you eat a rainbow!

Our journey through the tri-subject extravaganza culminated with a soothing yoga wind-down with Emma teaching us how to unplug and drift away into dreamland. A pity that we had to stir from our meditative bliss so soon, but at least now we know more ways of zenning out from life’s daily stresses!

My only criticism? That I was so comfortable and relaxed I had to leave. But I will be back for the next workshop which promises to be bigger and better — if that’s even possible!

In this day and age, there’s a special awareness event for just about anything. But when I heard about an informative workshop to look after my overall well-being, that was something truly worth celebrating!

Lucinda, Beth and Emma have come together to hold the courses. Lucinda and her sleep masterclass

Emma leads a class on Yoga techniques

Beth demonstrates benefits of nutrition

What Are House Buying Searches?

One of the first steps to buying a house after your offer has been accepted is to order searches on the property.

But what are house buying searches, and why are they so important?

House buying searches are checks carried out on a property before you buy it. They usually cost a couple of hundred pounds (approx. £200-300) and can provide highly valuable information about the property.

There are three main searches your solicitor will order for you when you buy a house:

1. Local authority searches

2. Environmental searches

3. Water and drainage searches

But what kind of issues will a search identify? Should everyone get a house buying search done?

Watch Mike’s advice video to find out exactly what a search is, what issues it could identify, and whether you should get one done.

Scan to find out more about House Buying Searches

Private & Discrete Selling Service

We may have the solution on our database – today!

Not everybody wants the world to know they are selling their home, or trying to, which is why we have a ‘Private and Discreet’ selling option available to sellers.

We all have our own reasons for wanting to move home and the glare of publicity isn’t right for everyone. We understand that.

So, if you’ve been toying with the idea of moving and for your own reasons would rather avoid the fanfare and publicity, or really can’t be bothered will all the ‘faff’, our Private and Discreet selling option might be just right for you.

Find out more by scanning the QR code or give us a call!

Scan here to find out more

We may have the solution on our database – today!

Are you looking to buy your next home but can’t find what you’re looking for?

Have you spent a long time searching properties but haven’t seen the right home for you?

Has the home you wanted to purchase been sold to someone else?

Do you need to find your next home to buy quickly?

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STATE-OF-THE-ART TRAINING FACILITY GETS THUMBS-UP

which is only seen at County Cricket level or at private schools, according to the club.

Rob Wilkinson, from Hailsham Cricket Club said: “We are delighted to have completed a four-year project and can’t wait to see the whole club using it throughout the week from April onwards. “April will see the return of the cricket season and we have a jam

packed pre-season schedule for both the men and women’s teams. We are excited to welcome over 20 new players to the club across all the different teams and of varying abilities.

We pride ourselves on being an inclusive club that offers cricket to all the community no matter of age or ability. With the season starting up the Boundary Bar has been updated and improved and we look forward to welcoming players, family and the local community in for a drink on match days and weekends. We have four new picnic benches and parasols at the front and several new varieties of drinks on sale.”

The junior season gets going in May and the club is excited to get

going. All junior players have had a taste of cricket through the early part of spring, either indoors or outside in the new facility. Training starts again on Wednesday 12th April and the hard work will begin to make sure teams are ready for the challenges of the league.

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer at Hailsham Cricket Club, either through helping on the bar, scoring, umpiring or coaching please get in touch with the club. They are still looking for new men and women to join its adult teams or boys and girls aged 4-16. Hailshamcc@outlook.com / 07980146841 or contact them through social media.

The new facility gets first use

events

Bowes House care home, Hailsham

Let’s talk about Dementia

Wednesday 19th April 2023

2.30pm - 4pm

Carers café

The third Thursday of each month

2.30pm - 4pm

Trusted to care.

To attend please call 01323 315137 or email karen.milligan@careuk.com

SPORT WORLD CHAMPION VISITS KARATE CLUB

CMA Karate Hailsham invited the ninetime world karate champion Wayne Otto OBE to Hailsham recently to train with club members.

Almost a hundred students trained with Sensei Wayne in two sessions, one for children and then for more advance students and adults.

Sensei Wayne was impressed with the commitment of the students and enjoyed his time with the club. CMA Karate meet at the Hellingly Hub every Friday evening.

HARRIERS UPDATE

It’s been half marathon madness over the past few weeks for local running club Hailsham Harriers with an abundance of new personal bests and notable achievements being set along the way.

On Sunday March 5th, Ross Brockelhurst stormed over the finish line at the Eastbourne Half Marathon placing a mighty second overall. Ross was followed by Harriers men’s captain Carl Barton continuing his fabulous start to the year, also running a new personal best in 1:28:21.

Ladies Captain Helen O’Sullivan finished with fellow Harrier Graham Woolley in 1:37:16 followed by Matt Southam 1:39:06, Simon Haddon 1:39:18, and Audrey Haddon 1:41:16. Ricky Curran ran his first half marathon in Harriers colours finishing in a spectacular 1:46:21, whilst Chris Little 1:48:09 and Hannah DeubertChapman 1:55:45 both raced to new personal bests. Barry Burgess crossed the line in 1:46:21, followed by Katy Reed 2:11:08, Kaz Breese 2:23:19, Wendy Quinn 2:30:49 and Roberto Proietti 3:03:03.

More recently on Sunday 12th March, David Woollard, Lianne Leakey and Maria Stanford joined 1700 runners to take part in the Paddock Wood Half Marathon. With near perfect race conditions the trio produced fantastic race results. David ran 1:20:50, Lianne achieved a new personal best of 1:29:43 and Maria finished in 2:44:42

RELEGATION FEARS INCREASE AS STRINGERS WELL BEATEN

BY STUART FAIRWAY

Hailsham Town made the long trip to Selsey in increasingly blustery conditions recently desperate for points in an increasingly tight bottom half of the Southern Combination Football League Division One table.

The home side saw Thomas Blamire head wide inside the opening two minutes, but midway through the half Hailsham were only denied the opening goal by a last gasp clearance off the line after a scramble.

However, five minutes later, the home side took

Cian Griffin-Tilley then made it 2-0 five minutes before the interval with a powerful strike from Shane Brazil’s low cross, with the home side taking their chances well after surviving a scare.

After the interval, Hailsham looked to get back into the game, and almost did on 53 when a free kick from the right was headed goalwards, but well saved by the Selsey ‘keeper — but again promise would be followed by disappointment for Hailsham, with Brazil making it 3-0 shortly afterwards.

Substitute Akil Alleyne made it 4-0 for the West

Sussex side on 72 minutes, with Jack Baden’s free kick then tipped over by Selsey ‘keeper Davies on 75 as Hailsham pushed to salvage something from the game, with Davies again called into action three minutes later to make another fine stop. The icing on the cake for the home side would come in stoppage time with Alleyne’s second of the afternoon, finishing from Slater’s through ball with Selsey 5-0 victors.

The result — as well as Seaford’s 4-1 victory at home to Billingshurst, and Oakwood’s 2-0 victory at Worthing United — leaves Hailsham facing an important final month of the season, beginning

with a trip to high flyers Dorking Wanderers B on April 1st and a Division One Cup trip to Billingshurst the following Tuesday, before what appears a mustwin home clash against Seaford on Bank Holiday Monday (10th, 11am), and equally important games away at Montpelier Villa (15th) and home to Selsey (22nd, 3pm).

Stringers: Pianio, Beeden, McAndrew, HunterStewart, Kirkpatrick, Baden, Butler, Crittenden, Martin, Tate, Caicedo

Used Subs: Mwaura, Edwards

Unused: Berwick

Attendance: 183