Hailsham News, April 2024, Issue 32

WELCOME

YOU may recall, in our last edition, we asked our readers to give us some feedback about this publication in terms of what you enjoy and what you want to see in future

I’d like to thank all those who responded as we had some excellent and constructive feedback from you, which is just what we wanted.

We’ve already taken action in this edition, as 37% of you wanted to see a puzzles section, so we’ve done just that, so we hope you enjoy the new section.

The figure we are delighted about is how many people read each copy of the newspaper. The average response was 2.2 readers per copy which is well above the national average of 1.7, so thank you for making sure you share your copy of the newspaper with friends and family, and recycle it when you’re finished.

We have included the details in this issue again on how you can take part in this survey if you haven’t already. We go through every single response and each one is gratefully received.

In other news, I was delighted to see the arrival of the Changing Places toilet block at Vicarage Field recently. It’s been a very long battle for Councillor Mary Laxton who has spent all this time trying to find the perfect location for the toilets and also get the funding — which has all come from the CIL find (money from developers).

Paul Gibson, Group Editor.

THE TEAM

PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

KIM MAYO – REGIONAL EDITOR kim@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

HSIN-YI LO – REGIONAL EDITOR hsinyilo@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 – PRODUCTION dean@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

READ ME, SHARE ME, THEN RECYCLE ME!

Police campaign to combat spiking launched

SUSSEX POLICE has joined forces across the country for Spiking Intensification Week, a national week of action to raise awareness about what is being done to combat spiking.

Working with partners, officers and staff carried out a range of engagement and intensification activities to complement the work that goes into tackling spiking all year round in the county.

They visited schools, colleges, and community groups to educate on the dangers of spiking, what to do if you think you are a victim and the support that is out there from police and partners.

Engagement with licensed was increased with venues that work closely with the police to make sure their customers are protected. They were given anti-spiking measures such as StopTopps, educated on how to identify vulnerable or suspicious people and advised on what to do

should someone fall victim to spiking.

Licensing teams were also on hand to help licensed venues and taxis adhere to their responsibilities and help keep their customers safe.

All of this activity goes on all year round, but the national intensification week helps to shine a spotlight on this important issue.

Home Secretary James Cleverly visited Sussex during the campaign

to see how much work goes into combatting spiking.

Our officers and partners in Crawley talked about the importance of community engagement and working with licensed venues to keep people safe and catch offenders.

At Sussex Police showed off its keen-nosed sniffer dogs, trained to pick out anyone carrying illegal drugs. They are deployed around

the night-time economy to help stop people sneaking harmful substances into venues.

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard McDonagh, Sussex Police’s Head of Public Protection, said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy a night out in safety without falling victim to predatory behaviour.

“Tackling spiking is something Sussex Police and its partners take extremely seriously, allied to our commitment to protecting women and girls, who we know are disproportionately affected by spiking.

“That commitment extends to making sure victims are supported while we investigate and secure the justice they deserve.

“If you believe you have been a victim of spiking or any crime on a night out, report it to bar staff or a police officer as soon as possible. You can also report crimes online through the Sussex Police website, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency.”

New accessible toilet block arrives in Hailsham following six-year campaign

COUNCILLOR MARY Laxton has spent the last six years battling to give residents fully accessible toilets in the town, and today, her dream came true.

The new toilet block arrived in town today and was carefully lifted into place by a crane to its new home on Vicarage Field.

It contains two modular public conveniences and a Changing Places disabled unit and is now housed on the site of the old public toilet, opposite the Health Centre.

The external look of the new facilities fits in with the street scene and, internally, the facility comprises an electronic hoist, a rise-and-fall changing table, shower toilet and wash basin, all of which are totally accessible.

A project originally proposed by Cllr Mary Laxton and seconded by Cllr Gavin Blake-Coggins several years ago, Hailsham Town Council agreed to the installation of a Changing Places facility in January 2022, which is designed in a way that they are completely accessible and provides sufficient space and equipment for people with multiple and complex disabilities, or who are not able to use a toilet independently.

The installation of the new facility in Vicarage Field was funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), amidst a high-profile national campaign over the past few years to increase the numbers of these specialist public conveniences.

The green light for the project came as good news for residents and visitors to the town, taking into account the decision made by the Town Council not to renew the lease on the former Cortlandt stable block building toilet facility in North Street,

The Town Council has thanked Wealden District Council for its cooperation on the joint-working project from the outset and for agreeing to install the facility on Councillor Mary Laxton told : “It’s been a six-year campaign working with all the people in the community with hidden disabilities. This pod will bring equality to the forefront of Hailsham. It will attract more into town because of the amount of people that don’t have access to the appropriate facilities. There have been numerous motions to the council over the past six years, but I wasn’t going to

Many of the logistics behind the installation were organised by Councillor Colin Mitchell. He commented: “Rise Adapt, the company from Doncaster that won the tender has installed these all over the country have been absolutely amazing throughout the

whole project.

We’d like the thank a number of officers from Wealden District Council, such as John Cooper, Jason Hughes and Jason Miles for making sure this happened, and to all the Town Councillors who voted unanimously for it.”

They will be opened to the public in the coming weeks, once the necessary utility service connections have been completed.

In September 2022, The town council’s Asset committee decided not to progress with the project which would have seen the toilet installed at the Western Road Recreation Group, as ‘no feasibility study or operational costs had been defined’.

It was then suggested The Town Council may wish to enter into discussions with Wealden District Council to discuss the potential location of a Changing Places facility at Vicarage Field instead.

The motion was then put back to the council and it was approved by all members.

Councillor Colin Mitchell and Councillor Mary Laxton

Engineers ensure a perfect fit on delivery

Changing Places Pod from above

Fully Accessible Changing Places Pod

Engineers work to ensure the pod is perfectly sat on the foundations Changing Places Pod

TWO PEOPLE have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a stabbing in Polegate.

Emergency services were called to Wannock Road at around 9pm on Monday, 18 March, where a 17-yearold boy was found with stab wounds.

He was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital, where he remains.

His injuries are serious, but no longer considered to be lifethreatening.

A 17-year-old boy from St Leonards and an 18-year-old man of no fixed address have been arrested on

suspicion of attempted murder. They remain in custody at this time.

Teen stabbed in Polegate Green light for new homes

COUNCILLORS EXPRESSED

concerns about local transport infrastructure when plans for 95 homes were discussed by the Wealden District Council Planning Committee recently.

Plans for the homes, on land east of Battle Road, were put in front of the committee, but discussions were focussed around the poor local transport infrastructure, which according to councillors, ‘must be

improved’.

The homes which were approved will be 35% ‘affordable’ homes and will see a vehicular entrance to the estate from Battle Road, just south of the allotments on the road.

However, the approval is subject to a ‘Grampian’ condition, which allows authorities to prohibit the development until other conditions are met.

Although East Sussex County

Detective Inspector Jess Langlands said: “A thorough investigation was launched as soon as this incident was reported and we acted quickly to arrest two suspects.

“I understand this will be distressing for the community, but I would like to assure them that this is understood to be an isolated incident between a group of people known to each other.

“We are asking anyone who witnessed anything suspicious around that time or has relevant CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage to call 101, quoting Operation Hutch.”

Transport worries over

Council reported there would be a very small increase in local traffic congestion (3% at main junctions), the committee decided the proposed improvement plan for the A22 must be confirmed to allow the development.

Planning Officers advised the committee it would not be acceptable to put this type of condition on the development, as it would likely be overturned on appeal.

the plans to build a McDonald’s Restaurant on South Road.

The chain has submitted proposals for the site on Ropemakers Park, opposite Tesco Express and KFC. The plans were discussed at a recent town council planning meeting when worries over air pollution and increased traffic in the area were raised.

Councillors recommend that mature, 6ft high native trees be planted the full length of the application site, especially along South Road and the entrance to the site. They want the opening hours of the restaurant to be restricted to

Polegate.

Councillors also discussed that the burger chain should make a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) 106 contribution and conditions should be levied to “support the costs of the delayed roundabout at BP garage/ Ersham Road, which they say will now become more urgent with increased traffic movements and congestion that the area currently suffers”.

The Town Council’s comments will be sent to Wealden District Council where its comments will be considered then the plans are in front of the Planning Committee.

Closure of school drop-off area gets thumbs-down from planning councillors

PAUL GIBSON

A LETTER has been sent to parents of the Burfield Academy after its plans to permanently close the drop-off area were refused.

The troubled school in Oaklands Way, Hailsham, applied to East Sussex County Council to withdraw the planning condition of supplying a ‘kiss and drop’ area for parents as it says the current area is unsafe for children, due to untrained staff, safeguarding concerns and failures in the design.

The letter sent to parents just hours after the decision stated: “The Planning Committee of East Sussex County Council met today [Wednesday] and unfortunately, they have refused the application.”

It added: “A decision to refuse would render the site unsuitable for use as a Primary School at any point in the future.”

The school is suggesting parents should use the neighbouring roads for parking and drop-off purposes. This was met with anger by surrounding residents who submitted a petition signed by 74 people, along

with 29 letters of objection, asking the County Planning Committee to reject the school application to overturn the condition.

The news comes as a huge blow to parents and pupils following the decision last year to temporarily close Burfield Academy for extensive safety works, which saw pupils moved to the Pheonix Academy on Marshfoot Lane. After the unanimous decision at

Hailsham News: “The Planning Committee turned down the School’s application to abandon the kiss and drop. I am hopeful that the Academy can come up with an alternative plan that addresses the traffic safety and congestion challenges. I’m more than happy to work with all parties to reach a solution which is safe and works well for the children, their parents, and local residents.”

discussed the school’s request in a recent planning meeting. It decided to support the removal of the kiss and drop system and recommended a PCSO should manage any illegal parking taking place. Councillor Godfrey Daniel responded to the HTC comments by saying that ‘simply won’t happen’.

Burfield Academy concluded in the letter to parents: “We have contacted East Sussex County Council’s Children’s Services team to request their steer on what this decision means in practice and will share a further update once this meeting has taken place.”

Ed Sheath, Head of Planning and Environment at East Sussex County Council said at the meeting: “There have been a number of complaints made to the council over the impact the closure of the kiss and drop facility has had on neighbouring roads, and the issues around parking to driveways and blocked drives.

The applicant has not provided sufficient levels of information and analysis to satisfy us that the removal of all obligations relating to a kiss and

would not give rise to increase hazards the use of the surrounding Highway Network. Furthermore, no information has been submitted to ascertain whether potential improvements to the existing facility have been explored.”

The motion to accept the officer recommendation was moved by Cllr Godfrey Daniel (Labour) and seconded by Cllr Kathryn Field (Lib Dem) both of whom had been involved as planning committee members in the placing of the original planning condition in 2015. It was supported by the whole committee.

In 2014, the original planning application for the school was refused by planners due to the impact on nearby residents. However, one year later, the plans were approved on the basis of a kiss and drop provision. It was then operated up until the COVID outbreak when it was closed to allow for social distancing.

When restrictions were lifted, ESCC begun to receive complaints from local residents due to high amount of traffic, as the kiss and drop was not reopened by the school.

Concluding the meeting, Chair Councillor Tom Liddiard (Conservative), said: “I think the applicants need to take this away and have a very careful look and serious conversation, both amongst themselves, but also with officers within the Highways and Planning department and to bring us back an application that allays some of the concerns of local residents, deals with the concerns of the site and puts the safety of children and the community at the heart of the decision that they’re making, rather than just transferring the problem to the public Highway, which will worsen the situation for everyone else with the exception of the applicant.”

A flexible, on-demand transport service, for the price of a standard bus

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Book your ride by phone: 01273 078203

to score enough money for a new car motor so he can win the Grand Prix. When he encounters sexy swimming instructor Rusty, he considers staying around longer.

MIGRATION

29 MAR - 11 APRIL - 10:30 & 14:15

Creators of the blockbuster Minions, Despicable Me, Sing and The Secret Life of Pets comedies, invites you to take flight into the thrill of the unknown with a funny, feathered family vacation like no other in the action-packed new original comedy, Migration.

MADAME WEB

29 MAR - 4 APRIL - 19:30

In a switch from the typical genre, Madame Web tells the origin story of one of Marvel’s most enigmatic heroines. The suspense-driven thriller stars Dakota Johnson as Cassandra Webb, a paramedic in Manhattan who develops the power to see the future.

DUNE: PART TWO

5-8 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

The mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, to prevent a terrible future.

LES MISÉRABLES

10 & 11 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

After 19 years as a prisoner, Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) is freed by Javert (Russell Crowe), the officer in charge of the prison workforce. Valjean promptly breaks parole but later uses money from stolen silver to reinvent himself as a mayor and factory owner.

GHOSTBUSTERS: FROZEN

EMPIRE

12-18 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

The Spengler family returns to where it all started, the iconic New York City firehouse to team up with the original Ghostbusters, who’ve developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level.

DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS

19-21 APRIL - 19:30

This comedy caper follows Jamie, an uninhibited free spirit bemoaning yet another breakup with a girlfriend, and her demure friend Marian who desperately needs to loosen up. In search of a fresh start, the two embark on an impromptu road trip to Tallahassee.

LUCA - K4AQ

20-21 APRIL - 10:30 & 14:15

A coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca (voice of Jacob T remblay) shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, Alberto.

TREASURE ISLAND - AN EASTER ADVENTURE

10 APRIL - 14:00

Hailsham Pavilion is proud to be offering a brand new Easter Family Adventure!

Bursting with Swashbuckling Pirates, Mysterious Mermaids and Dotty Dames, this hilarious show has all the fun-raising elements you would expect. With a fabulous professional cast featuring the Magic of popular entertainer, Krazy Kev, it’s the must-see Easter holiday show for all the family to enjoy! Limited seats and only one performance…Booking Now!

Show approx. 2hrs

TICKETS: £14.50-£16.50. GROUP TICKET

PRICE: £14.50-£54.00.

NT LIVE - NYE (EVENT CINEMA)

23 APRIL - 19:30

Michael Sheen plays Nye Bevan in a surreal and spectacular journey through the life and legacy of the man who transformed Britain’s welfare state and created the NHS. Confronted with death, Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan’s deepest memories lead him on a mind-bending journey back through his life; from childhood to mining underground, Parliament and fights with Churchill.

TICKETS: £15 & £13

Grovelands School celebrates World Book Day in style

STAFF AND pupils let their minds go wild as they celebrated the 29th World Book Day last month.

Fantastic books, old and new, were the recipe of day at Grovelands Primary School, where hundreds of pupils dressed up as their favourite authors.

World Book Day was created on 23rd April 1995 as a worldwide celebration of books and reading.

World Book Day is marked in over 100 countries around the globe.

Grovelands Primary School has sent Hailsham News these photographs of some of its pupils dressing up for the celebrations.

Swimming pool to get £70k cash boost

MEASURES TO make the Freedom Leisure Swimming Pool more energy efficient are set to be made thanks to a grant from Sport England.

The award of more than £70,000 will help implement interventions to help improve energy consumption at Hailsham Leisure Centre which run in partnership with Freedom Leisure.

The measures will assist the council in meeting its commitment to being carbon net zero by 2050 or sooner.

The interventions include the installation of PV solar to offset grid electricity usage and installing a pool cover which will reduce the heat loss from the pool, in turn reducing gas consumption and associated costs for heating the pool. The delivery of those interventions is estimated to save 16t CO2 each year.

The money has come from a second phase of funding in which £40 million of government funding was available for local authorities to invest in improving the energy efficiency of public facilities with swimming pools in the medium to long term.

The demand for the funding was

significantly high with more than 700 facility applications received by Sport England and four times the amount of funding requested.

Councillor Kelvin Williams, Alliance for Wealden (Liberal Democrat) and lead councillor for Public Health and Asset Management, said, “I am delighted we have received this funding which will help make environmental changes to the pool at Hailsham.

“This funding will enable the pool to become more energy efficient, perform at its best and enable us to take a step closer to becoming net zero by 2050 or sooner.”

Freedom Leisure area manager Toby Reed said, “We are pleased Wealden District Council has been successful in securing government funding via the Swimming Pool Support Fund and we look forward to working with the council to support the swimming facilities at Hailsham Leisure Centre going forward.”

The pool at Freedom Leisure was closed at the end of last year and was recently reopened following an extensive renovation project.

Town Centre Aspires project scrapped

FOLLOWING FIVE years of consultations, meetings and discussions, the controversial Hailsham Aspires project has been shelved and will not continue.

The decision was made during a Wealden District Council meeting recently where the cost of living crisis, Brexit, interest rates and the lack of Levelling Up funding were named as the core reasons for the failure of the project.

The project aimed to create new public and green spaces, with new exercise/ leisure facilities, expand healthcare, new community spaces and integrate ‘energy efficient’ homes. It would have cost up to £100million if it went ahead.

Councillor Kelvin Williams, whose role it was to deliver the project, said: “The Hailsham Aspires project has proven unaffordable for the Council’s finances in the current economic climate. However, the Council remains committed to delivering a new medical centre for the town to meet the needs of its growing population.”

The money set aside for the Aspires project will now be used to develop a new medical centre which will be located within the town centre area and is planned to accommodate the Hailsham Medical Group, East Sussex Healthcare Trust and Bridgeside Surgery. Hailsham News has submitted a Freedom of Information request to find out what the scrapped project has cost residents over the past five years.

Bluebell Walk and Gardens prepare for 51st year of raising funds for local causes

FOR MORE than half a century, John McCutchan, the owner of the Bluebell Walk and Gardens, has worked tirelessly to make the venue an incredible place to visit whilst raising tens of thousands for charity.

The walk and gardens in Arlington give families and countryside lovers the chance to walk around the ancient woodland and enjoy Bates Green Garden, which is a sight to be seen. This time of year see’s the arrival of the carpet of daffodils on the Millennium Walk as you enter the woods. This stunning site was created in memory of John’s wife, Carolyn, who decided to open the woods to the public in 1972 for one weekend only, to raise money for Park Mead School.

It was so popular, the McCutchan family decided to continue to open to the woods every year and has raised a huge amount of money which has all been given to local causes, such as the building of the Arlington Village Hall. Carolyn sadly passed away in 2019, but John has continued to work in the woods every single day.

It’s hoped that more than 25,000 people will visit the site in 2024 to see the incredible carpet of bluebells

when they start to appear in the next few months.

Head Gardener Emma Reece and her talented team now look after the Bates Green Garden which now attracts people from all over the UK each year.

First, a green carpet of emerging bluebell leaves will appear throughout the wood, then the white display of wood anemones will come into view.

There will then be the unique view of green, white and blue as the bluebells emerge, until the many vistas of blue will appear when the bluebells are fully out.

John said: “We open from April 10 for five weeks and the walk is of course so beautiful, but it’s more than just a walk as there are also the six farm trails to explore.

“We have extended our kitchen this year and in our cafe we have a large screen showing a live stream of the beautiful birds at their feeding station in the woods.

“This year we will be welcoming 26 different charities, who take turns to provide refreshments every day.

“There is also a Book Room, which is being managed this year by Heron’s Ghyll Carriage Driving for the Disabled.

“There is a plant stall run by Arlington Church and the chance to see the animals, including sheep and pygmy goats.

“We are also hoping that people will take the opportunity to visit Bates Green Garden which has been awarded RHS Partner Garden status.

“People love the bluebells — we all know that — but we also have the

be open every day during the five weeks of the Bluebell Walk and after that every Wednesday until the end of October.”

Last year, £78,000 was raised for charities, and this year should see the total amount raised pass the £1m mark.

John is also keen to stress there are 18 mobility scooters available for people who may need them.

Entrance to the Arlington Bluebell Walk this year is £8 or £4 for children. It’s £20 for a family of four.

Meanwhile, Bates Green Garden is open every Wednesday 10am-4pm. It’s a garden full of colour and one very special to John.

The Bates Green Garden Cafe — with homemade cakes and lunches — is open every Wednesday, and the Garden entrance fee also includes entry to Beatons Wood, a 24 acre ancient oak and hornbeam wood. Visitors can also walk around the six-acre Wildflower Meadow, appreciate the diversity and sit to enjoy the stunning views of the South Downs.

Go to www.bluebellwalk.co.uk and www.batesgreengarden.co.uk for more information.

Proposals revealed for Horsebridge Recreation Ground improvements

HELLINGLY PARISH Council is looking to consult with residents over plans to radically overhaul the facilities at the Lower Horsebridge Recreation Ground.

Several improvements are proposed for the area which includes new play equipment with accessible facilities, and a new indoor hall the size of two badminton courts along the existing Pavilion.

The plans suggest it will be used for a variety of indoor training, badminton and other activities. The indoor hall could be configured with courts side by side, or as a longer narrower building, with two courts end-to-end (with netting between the two inside). This would enable the current clubs on site to use it for indoor nets and short mat bowls as well.

It’s anticipated the Sports Pavilion toilets will be improved, potentially including a ‘Changing Places’ toilet for disabled people and improving changing rooms, bar/cafe area and kitchen.

The plans would also involve moving the current grass football pitch to the north of the site. There

is also space for a smaller second pitch (for under-8s). Currently, the proposals are simply pitch-marking,

following the existing groundlevel contours, and do not include drainage.

An area of scrubland could be replaced with a large Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) with floodlights and cage fencing. The approximate area would be the size of two netball courts with 2m run-offs, and be able to accommodate: two netball courts for matches and training; two basketball courts for matches and training; and a five-a-side football pitch for training. The likely surface to be Polymeric or Tarmacadam, which can accommodate netball, basketball and football. There are proposals to enhance planting in that area to create a wildlife habitat, and for the health pathway to wind its way through the nature space. In time, as trees

scooting, buggies and mobility scooters is also planned. The pathway would be approximately 714m, and width minimum 2.5m (except in the area behind the rugby pitch where space is reduced, allowing a width of 2m). The length allows 7 laps to be 5K.

It is proposed to increase the width of the main entrance to 5m to allow two-way traffic. In addition, the entrance would need to be readily accessible for an emergency vehicle if required. The facilities would see an increase in parking bays to a total of 80 throughout the site.

The Parish Council is hoping to gather views, opinions and suggestions from local residents on the plans. The improvements are expected to be funded through a number of external funding bodies. The survey is open until 5pm on 8th April 2024 and can be accessed by www.hellingly-pc.org.uk, or an email version can be sent by request by emailing clerk@hellingly-pc.org.uk.

Families invited to tackle Hellingly puzzle trail

OBSERVANT OR adventurous visitors to Hellingly Country Park in the last month may have spotted the appearance of cryptic markers hidden on trees, logs and posts across the park.

The markers, about the size of a postcard, are part of the Hellingly Puzzle Trail, a brand new, free activity trail for all the family to try.

The trail starts at the entrance to the park just behind the Community Hub and winds its way around the extensive grounds of the former

Hellingly Hospital. The 15 markers each contain a clue to the next marker location and a puzzle to solve.

Puzzlers can either access a free map and complete their answers online by scanning the QR code at the start of the trail or at hellinglypuzzle.animazingtv.co.uk or for a small donation, get a printed trail guide and nature trail for younger explorers from the Parish Office at the Community Hub during normal opening hours.

LOCAL PROPERTY lawyer Chris Hoadley has left a local traditional law firm to form his own company and enter into a consultancy agreement with Setfords Solicitors. Eastbourne-born Chris has 10 years experience in providing legal advice on residential property law to Hailsham, Bexhill and surrounding areas.

Who are Setfords?

Setfords are a UK top 100 law firm. Their model is to provide background resources to support a network of 500+ qualified lawyers covering all areas of law on a consultancy basis. This allows consultants to manage their own clients and cashflow without the risk and cost of starting up a new firm.

What services will be provided in Eastbourne and the South East?

Chris is a Licensed Conveyancer who specialises in offering legal advice tailored to residential property. These services include Freehold and Leasehold Conveyancing, New Build and Park Home sales and purchases, Remortgages and Lease Extensions. Whilst Chris covers residential property, the network will allow his clients to access all other areas of law, so that a fully serviced law firm is provided through Setfords’ consultants.

Where?

Chris will be spending the working week balancing between his new home office, client call outs and the co -working space at the Foundry which is located within the new Beacon centre. He is looking forward to showing this hidden gem to his clients and business contacts alike.

Allow 1½ to 2 hours to complete the trail and wear suitable footwear for exploring off the main paths. You can get to the Community Hub on the 1X or 51 bus and it is a short cycle ride or walk from the Cuckoo Trail.

There is also free parking and electric car charging point.

The what3words location is ///tolerates.publish.tint

The trail has been produced by local Community Interest Company, Animazing C.I.C. and supported by Hellingly Parish Council.

Photo of the month

captured Spring arriving in the town recently with the stunning photograph. She told Hailsham News: “Taking photos eases my depression for seeing the beauty in our surroundings, which can easily be

very difficult to see the colour of life. It really boosts me.”

Do you have a photo you’d like featured in Hailsham News? Email it to us with your name and story behind the photo to: editor@hailsham.news.

Opening hours

Chris can be flexible to the needs of the client. He understands that this may result in working longer hours some days, doing home visits, and not being tied down to a lunch break between 1-2pm, when most clients will want to get hold of him.

Why use Chris and Setfords

• Direct contact with an experienced qualified lawyer

• Responsive

• Limited overheads allowing the need for less volume and more quality

• Background admin support

• Supporting local

• Competitive transparent fees Chris can be contacted on 01323 402542 and looks forward to assisting the local community with their property transactions.

Chris Hoadley, CH Conveyancing Services

INFRASTRUCTURE WORRIES

DEAR EDITOR, Why are our councillors so keen to grant planning permission without obvious enforceable conditions to ensure public safety from the extra traffic?

Station Road, Saltmarsh Road and Mill Road all lead to Eastbourne, Langney and Pevensey as a direct route for Hailsham residents with cars often worth £30-50,000 ruined by deep potholes that we are always trying to avoid in this muddy lane.

These roads require 2ft widening and all edges made safe, no deep potholes hidden with rainwater. This needs to be done by the builders — free to council before building is allowed to commence and before new residents create excess traffic!

We lived in Spain and this is how they think and work ahead of problems. Why don’t we do it? It’s common sense and free! Other letters point to this logic. Mill Road resident.

TORY WALKOUT WORTH IT?

DEAR EDITOR, I was disappointed but hardly surprised to read in your March edition (page four) that some Conservative Members had left the meeting held to discuss Wealden District’s latest draft Local Plan.

Throwing one’s toys out of the pram rarely helps make for mature discussion.

I am acutely aware that perceived rampant, unwanted, unplanned overdevelopment, sewage pouring into our homes and rivers and wholly inadequate infrastructure does not sit well with any resident.

However, have these Conservative Wealden members forgotten that it was their administration and their failed Local Plan at examination (failing spectacularly in the Planning Inspector’s eyes on lack of credible evidence and failure to cooperate with neighbouring Authorities) that has led to the unbridled developer fest we are in?

It was the previous Administration also whose Leader boldly announced that they believed that the Minister, Mr Michael Gove, had listened carefully to Wealden when announcing the scrapping of housing targets. That turned out to be a very short-lived assurance indeed from Government.

Does anyone else seriously believe politicians any more?

Which now brings into focus why Wealden needs to get on with its Plan; and quickly if we are to avoid another decade of chaos.

Governments of all stripes will always stick to a firm requirement for Local Planning Authorities to show they have adequate land available for housing.

had opportunity to properly consider the Plan, this draft Plan’s general provisions will have been available for them to discuss and ask questions of their officers for some considerable time now.

May I therefore suggest that they instead take a long hard look in the mirror and take at least some sliver of responsibility (maybe alongside Mr Gove) for the glaring failings of their Conservative administration over the previous decade.

D.Phillips

IT’S A ‘McNO’ FROM ME

DEAR EDITOR, When the item was published that McDonalds was planning to build a drive-through restaurant on the plot opposite the Tesco and KFC outlets, there were a lot of comments made that were against it.

There is a McDonalds just down the

Playing the “ostrich” simply doesn’t help matters go away.

For those members who apparently left the chamber claiming not to have

Burger King just up the road at the BP Garage and the Kentucky Fried Chicken in Ropemakers, these create a lot of rubbish, and although there are bins provided, they are often overflowing. Also drive drive-throughs create a lot of congestion on the roads they are connected to. We used to live in Peacehaven and the McDonalds at Newhaven in the Drove Retail Park created havoc when people were trying to go to the other retailers in that area. The Costa drive-through at Hampden Park also causes a problem with traffic going in and out of the Retail park.

South Road is often blocked by the traffic travelling into Hailsham, so put a drive-through restaurant just off this road will cause more traffic jams.

As Hailsham is growing with all the extra building works going ahead in the area, it would be more advantageous

it is, surely looking to assist the already struggling NHS would be better than providing more fast food outlets.

In Hailsham, we have an abundance of restaurants and takeaway outlets as it stands. Do we really need another one?

Mr Hutchings

WE’RE UNDER SEIGE

DEAR

EDITOR,

All the developments are really horrific. Permissions are granted with no thought for service — yes l know that is our current planning.

The aspects of flooding, sewage, water supply, schools and Doctors have all been ignored to allow very greedy landowners (who sell) and developers to make money. It is our current UK business model.

Wildlife, trees and quality of life are all ignored. A 300 development will have cars per house plus all the deliveries increasing pollution.

This shows Hailsham but Polegate and Stone Cross are also under siege.

The properties are not aimed at local people due to prices. This means out of towners can buy and commute. More pollution.

I have lived in this area for over 40 years, and if l could afford to move, l would.

Also, our MP is not helpful or interested. North Wealden has a lot less development perhaps due to where she lives.

Pat McCartney

Fire services hold joint exercise to spread wildfire safety message

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES from East, West Sussex, Surrey and Kent held an exercise recently on the Ashdown Forest for a joint wildfire training exercise.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service organised the event, which provided the opportunity to test wildfire response capabilities and collaborative working.

There was no live fire on the day, but the incident simulated a rapidly developing fire at the base of a slope on open heathland.

Around 40 firefighters from across the four services responded to the mock scenario working together with our Joint Fire Control, a multiservice incident command team and local land managers, including the Ashdown Forest Rangers. Fire engines and specialist appliances were also utilised, including off-road vehicles, drone teams and a water carrier. Services will now work together to develop learning and recommendations and promote key messages to members of the public and landowners ahead of the wildfire season.

WILDFIRE ADVICE

• PREVENTION IS KEY: Don’t drop cigarettes or burning materials on dry ground, keep children away from lighters and matches, use designated barbecue areas and dispose of glass bottles and litter properly.

• PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR PROPERTY: Remove flammable materials from your garden, check for spaces where burning embers could become lodged, safely store flammable substances, and trim back shrubs or trees near your house.

• HAVE AN EVACUATION PLAN: Make sure you and others know what to do in the event of a wildfire. Don’t delay — if in doubt, get out, away from vegetation and smoke.

• WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A WILDFIRE: Stay calm, follow your evacuation plan, and always call 999 in the event of an emergency.

Historically, UK wildfires are most closely associated with Spring, and this exercise provides the opportunity to relaunch the ESFRS campaign ‘We’re wildfire ready, are you?’ focusing on wildfire safety, prevention, protection and how to respond in the event of an emergency.

Station Manager and ESFRS

Wildfire Lead Trevor Funnell said: ‘’This collaborative wildfire training exercise provided an invaluable opportunity for our teams to test our preparedness and resilience. Our crews honed their skills within a realistic simulation, demonstrating

Long-awaited Diplocks resurfacing finally taking place

PAUL GIBSON

IT’S BEEN one of the town’s hottest topics for a few years, but East Sussex County Council has confirmed it is to fully resurface the pothole-littered Diplocks Way this month.

The main route through the busy industrial estate is used by thousands every day, and the surface has almost become undriveable.

Our drone images on this page show the true extent of the broken road surface, sunken pavements and raised ironworks.

There have been hundreds of posts online from residents and businesses calling for the resurfacing of the road from South Road right through to the Gleneagles/ BMW roundabout. On a daily basis, you can stand and watch cars driving at a walking pace, swerving all over to avoid damage to their vehicles.

It was previously believed the road was privately owned and not the responsibility of the Highways

companies located on the estate, and will include surfacing, associated

last summer.”

Tuesday 2 April through to Friday 19 April, the road will be closed between the hours of 7pm and 7am to minimise disruption to businesses in the area. The team will be working between the Diplocks Roundabout and the junction with South Road. Traffic will be diverted via South Road, A22 Hailsham Bypass & vice versa.

Monday 22 April through to Friday 3 May, the road will remain open to through traffic with temporary traffic signals in place between 7pm and 7am. The works are expected to cause some disruption to local businesses, but ESCC says signage in the area

our works.

A spokesperson from East Sussex Highways said: “All these works are subject to favourable weather conditions; for example, heavy rain may affect the progress of the works.

Properties close to the carriageway may experience a temporary disturbance as this can be a noisy process, and those properties may experience flashing lights and reversing sirens.

We would like to take this opportunity to apologise in advance for any inconvenience or disruption this work may cause; however, this forms part of our continuing improvement for the East Sussex highway network.”

A MATTER OF TASTE

THAI RESTAURANT REALLY IS SOMETHING EXTRA SPECIAL

Bexhill has a plethora of restaurants with varied menus catering for all tastes, so competition for customers is understandably fierce.

Everyone is well aware that running a restaurant is a precarious business with many failing within the first couple of years but fortunately many buck the doom and gloom merchants by making a real success in the local community. My partner and I have already visited several restaurants in the town but we hadn’t had the chance to check out Thai Chava in Sackville Road.

However, our first visit was hastened when a friend, who had eaten there on several occasions, declared the food is

Therefore, the time was ripe for us to investigate for ourselves, especially as we are both big fans of Thai food. We decided to celebrate my birthday at the restaurant and fortunately managed to book a table even though it coincided with Mothers’ Day.

Upon arrival the first good sign was that Thai Chava was buzzing with customers and it was immediately clear that the sole waitress on duty that night had her work cut out to keep up with the orders that were being taken throughout the evening, both for those eating at the tables and the many others who arrived to pick up their takeaway orders. However, everything was being organised with military precision, so there was no agonising wait for the food

to arrive once we had placed our orders.

sugar guaranteed plenty of happy murmurings from the other side of the table.

Both dishes had perfect combination and balance of taste and aroma, without feeling bloated after finishing.

The menu is comprehensive and varied and the aromas emanating from the kitchen very swiftly made our tummies rumble.

We both opted for the same starter with the pork and prawn dumplings (a very reasonable £6.50), proving to be an ideal appetiser.

Silence ensued as we tucked in and they were, as we had been told by our friend, absolutely excellent.

The steamed dumplings consisting of pork, prawns and mushrooms, served with a vinegar soy sauce, and it absolutely hit the spot. In short, they were sensational.

The waitress, despite being incredibly busy, was attentive without being intrusive, which is always a big bonus

KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

“April brings the primrose sweet, Scatters daisies at our feet” Sara Coleridge

SPRING IS now in full swing, and our gardens are full of promise. Fresh green foliage unfurls, fat buds develop, the grass starts growing in earnest and we should take every opportunity to get out into Nature and soak up the season-whatever the weather!

Here at Bates Green Garden, we enjoy planning, planting and curating our colour-themed Middle Garden. The planting in this area is always being reviewed to reflect the change of climate that we now experience so obviously. We also want to demonstrate current trends in horticulture and what better group of plants to do this with than dahlias? They come in all shades and shapes and are so flamboyant and dramatic, just what we want in these summer borders.

Carolyn McCutchan, who originally designed and planted Bates Green Garden, put wildlife at the forefront of her plant choices. We therefore only choose the ‘single’ dahlias, which have one layer of petals forming the flowers. This is opposed to ‘doubles’ which some gardeners prefer as they are more showy and the flowers last longer as they cannot be pollinated and develop seed. The ’double’ flowers are bred to replace the sexual organs of the plant with extra petals, this may look attractive but is frustrating for the pollinators that we garden for; bees, butterflies and hoverflies. These important insects are attracted to signals given off by the flower, the colour and perhaps the scent of the doubles but cannot easily locate the pollen or nectar due to the number of petals to navigate. This wastes important energy for these creatures and does not benefit them. We want our borders to be alive with insect activity and have therefore selected only single dahlias which include all the ‘Bishop’ cultivars.

Dahlias are pricey to buy but easy to bulk up at home by taking basal stem cuttings. When the tubers arrive, pot

them up into shallow trays with the tubers visible above the level of the compost. Place in a warm propagating unit, a windowsill would do, and watch them closely. Once the emerging shoots are about 7.5cms long, remove a few from each tuber with a very sharp knife. This cutting must include a small sliver of the parent tuber.

Pot them up immediately into some peat-free multi-purpose compost and place either in a propagator or in a warm place with a plastic bag secured around the pot with a rubber band. This will keep the moisture in.

Once they show signs of rooting and growing, they can be potted on, regularly fed and will flower this year for you. Why not give this a go in 2024? If you don’t remove every shoot from the parent tuber, you will have nothing to lose and may well end up with extra plants for free.

Hellebores are really enjoying themselves here this year. The wet weather suits them, and they appreciated the mulching they were given last autumn. The colours are so uplifting, but if you want to show them off as a centrepiece in your home you may find that they droop too readily in

when you eat out, so top marks for that.

Following the starters we took a breather by ordering another couple of drinks before moving on to the mains.

It was time for the main courses and my partner, who eats oodles of noodles whenever the opportunity arises, unsurprisingly opted for the Pad Thai with chicken (£8.90).

I, being no expert, chose the beef in oyster sauce (£13.50) with rice and upon arrival it exceeded even my highest expectations. Stir-fried with broccoli and mushrooms, it certainly filled the gap magnificently.

Ditto applied to the Pad Thai noodles which, between mouthfuls, my partner declared were “perfect”.

The flat rice noodles served with egg, bean sprouts, spring onion and palm

The premises provide an intimate setting without diners feeling overcrowded which is always a bonus on a night out.

Thai Chava is also perfectly located for those looking to dine out before a show at the De La Warr Pavilion as it is handily placed in close proximity to the venue, which hosts a number of high-profile events.

Extra praise also for the sheer array of dishes on offer as making a final decision on what to order took time for the simple reason that so many of them were incredibly tempting.

Those will, however, have to wait for our next visit and we both agreed that our return will certainly be sooner rather than later.

In a nutshell, Thai Chava simply could not be faulted. The food is reasonably priced, the service excellent and the location ideal.

It left us to ponder why we had taken so long to check it out, but, boy, we are really glad we did. Top marks all round.

Thai Chava, 48 Sackville Road, Bexhill, TN39 3JE

Telephone: 01424 219333.

Opening hours 5.30pm until late Tuesday to Sunday. Booking is advised.

BATES Green Garden, an RHS Partner Garden, is open every Wednesday between the end of February and late October. For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden

a vase. The answer is to fill a decorative, shallow bowl with fresh mains water and then to float the blooms individually on the surface of the water. The display will last for a good while as long as you replace the water every week or so.

Now is a good time to buy hellebores in flower so that you can see exactly what you are getting. Visit a specialist nursery if you can or maybe go to a Plant Fairs Roadshow event. These are a collective of specialist nurseries who organise Fairs throughout the South East. You can order from them in advance and collect your plants on the day. Visit www.plantfairsroadshow. co.uk to find one near you.

Gardeners are a creative bunch and

none more so than our WRAGS student, Emma Tee, who has been with us for one year. Whilst carrying out various pruning activities around the Garden, Emma collected many and varied lichen examples on some of the branches. She then created this beautiful piece of art which is on display in the Garden using only the materials that were collected on-site. We love it.

Come for a visit, we are open every Wednesday from 10-4pm, the Garden, Wildflower Meadow and Woods are so uplifting, you will be assured of a warm welcome and can enjoy homemade refreshments in our Barn.

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!

Pad Thai Noodles

Pork and Prawn Dumplings

Beef with Oyster Sauce

working gundogs to new levels. I’m so proud of her and how fearless she is.”

Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and wildlife management, said:

“Once again, Daisy was an absolute joy to watch. For someone so young, who has overcome so much, she has shown ability and maturity well beyond her years. She is an absolute credit to her parents and a wonderful advocate of working gundogs.”

MP for Wealden Nusrat Ghani update

I RECEIVE a lot of correspondence on planning in Wealden, and many residents have been in touch with me to share their concerns over the new housing numbers proposed for our area by the current Council leadership.

As you may be aware, the Wealden District Council’s Draft Local Plan is now out for public consultation and outlines where the new Wealden District leadership, which is a coalition of Liberal Democrats and Green councillors, intends to build 15,729 new homes between now and 2040. The Draft Local Plan consultation period will run from Friday 15th March to Friday 10th May and I would like to encourage all Wealden residents to consider taking part and have their say. The consultation is available online at https://consult.wealden.gov.uk/kse and will also be accompanied by a series of drop-in sessions across the district. Details of these can be found on the Council’s website. I fully acknowledge that we do need more homes, and a level of development in Wealden is inevitable. I see the need for affordable homes pop up daily in my casework and I believe that we should be striving for sensible, affordable housing for first-time local buyers and renters, and those who wish to downsize locally. However, I do recognise the level of surprise and frustration at the numbers proposed in the Draft Local Plan, which are much higher compared to what the councillors have been proposing to residents last year.

Your local independent property experts...

Residential Lettings Land New Homes

GOURNAY ROAD, HAILSHAM - £335,000 PARK ROAD, HELLINGLY - £475,000

Car Driveway Parking | Garage | GCH.

Situated within a modern cul-de-sac is this well presented, relatively well proportioned three bedroomed semi-detached house complete with two off road parking spaces to the front and side of the house, a garage and nicely landscaped rear garden.

Inside the house is arranged with a spacious entrance hall, kitchen, dining room/ further reception room, dual aspect lounge, wc, stairs to the first floor landing, three bedrooms with the main boasting an ensuite shower room aswell as the family bathroom.

To explore this wonderful home please take a look through our 3d virtual tour teamed up with our professional photography before calling for an accompanied viewing.

Inside the house is arranged with a spacious and light entrance hall, kitchen with utility area, dining room with french doors into the conservatory, a front aspect living room, study, wc and internal access into the garage. Upstairs all bedrooms are generously proportioned and the main boasts an ensuite, and there is a family bathroom too. The front has off road parking for several vehicles while the rear has a mature, mainly lawned garden.

To explore this home please take a look at our 3D Virtual Tour teamed up with our professional photography before calling us for an accompanied viewing.

extended cottage complete with a generous rear garden, courtyard area, gated off road parking and a garage presently used as a garden bar.

Inside this wonderful home is arranged with an entrance hall, dining room with patio doors, a front aspect lounge, rear aspect kitchen-breakfast room with utility room, a study and downstairs toilet. Upstairs there are four bedrooms with the master boasting ensuite shower room and the family bathroom.

To explore this wonderful opportunity please take a look at our 3d virtual tour online teamed up with our professional photography before calling us for an accompanied viewing.

Situated within the fringes of town known as Lower Horsebridge and backing onto acres of open countryside is this characterful and charming period detached cottage complete with features such as log burners, a mature garden with newly erected insulated Shepherds Hut with its own shower room/WC, off road parking and garage. Rose Cottage has been lovingly cared for and improved by its present owners with extensive works having been carried out to improve the cottage recently including a major roof overhaul and newly installed uPVC double glazing throughout.

Inside it is arranged with a spacious dual aspect lounge, kitchen-living-family room that flows all as one aswell as a separate utility room with wc. Upstairs there are three well sized double bedrooms and a family bathroom.

To explore this wonderful opportunity please take a look at our 3d virtual tour teamed up with our professional photography before calling for an accompanied viewing.

Situated along Ersham Road is this wonderful detached four bedroomed family home totaling 1800 SQFT of accommodation.

ON YOUR BIKE with Ian Hollidge REDISCOVER THE FUN & FITNESS OF CYCLING

MOST OF us can remember our first bike and the feeling of joy it gave us to finally own a two-wheeled machine which would bring us so much joy as we learned to master balance, taking control and with it the freedom to move around wherever we chose to go.

So why should we opt for pedal power while eschewing where possible other modes of transport. For this, my first column for Hailsham News, I will attempt to provide some answers.

We all need transport to travel and in East Sussex we have to deal with old roads yet at the same time increasing traffic in the 21st Century.

So, how best to access jobs, shops, meeting up with friends and having fun without too much endeavour while also negotiating our increasingly clogged road infrastructure? After all, who wants to be stuck in a traffic jam on a blazing hot day?

The wheel has been around for approximately 5,000 years while bicycles were first introduced about 200 years ago.

Health and fitness are one of the main reasons for taking up cycling. In a nutshell, it is good for us.

Getting out and about on a bike enables us to fully enjoy our lives, whether it be to meet people for a chat or to help improve mental health, which is of course vitally

environment.

A motor vehicle can take up to 16 times more space than one bicycle and weigh up to 200 times more. They can cause damage to vegetation and because of their speed often prevent all forms of life from moving around safely.

Bikes do not pollute or emit toxic fumes, nor do they require a large, hard surface to move around and park.

Cleaning a bike is so far easier and cheaper with the additional bonus that there is no need to use complex

need while protecting the environment. Bicycles last for years when properly maintained and cared for and, in addition, there is no need to spend potentially hundreds of pounds on costly spare parts. Bicycles never need refuelling as the only energy required to move about is by human endeavour; that is pedal power!

In short, cycling is carbon offsetting at its very best.

As concerns over climate change continue to grow, steps are continuing to limit the use of ‘gas guzzlers’ on our

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

New bikes can be purchased for less than £100 and although you can invest significantly more if you wish, there is also a thriving second hand market. Bicycles hold their price well and selling them on is usually very simple.

Maintenance costs are minimal and although insurance is not a requirement it is advisable that regular riders insure themselves via Cycling UK or an alternative provider just to be on the safe side.

Pedalling yourself to any destination

costs absolutely nothing and when you arrive parking is easy and, best of all, free. There are many secure places with keycard entry and security cameras to ensure your pride and joy does not fall into the wrong hands.

Compare that to the cost of running a car which averages about £4,000 per year. So, if you want to travel while staying healthy in mind and body, help the environment, care for future needs by being sustainable and reducing expenditure then getting on your bike is the simple solution.

Cycling may not be the miracle cure for everything but it is a mighty fine start as far as I am concerned.

Many say that what you drive, ride and own shows of an individual style. Do you take note of how someone arrives at a destination and in or on what mode of transport and make an assumption about them?

Getting on your bike makes a statement about what you stand for, which is fun on two wheels while also enjoying the additional benefits to mind, body and spirit.

Next month I will tell you where to go on your bike by telling you about some of my own favourite destinations, and detail the clubs and groups in East Sussex who can help you on your journey.

NEWSPAPER READER SURVEY LAUNCHED

IT’S YOUR time to give us your opinions on the town’s dedicated free newspaper.

Hailsham News is dedicated to reporting on all the local news as we approach almost three years old. We want to know what you think of this monthly publication so we can find out how to improve it and continue to offer you an incredible publication.

We’ve launched a reader survey which should take no more than a few minutes to complete and simply asks what you enjoy in the newspaper and what you’d like to see in any future editions.

Group Editor Paul Gibson said: “We launched Hailsham News to fill the gap to improve local news coverage and we have been overwhelmed by how the newspaper has been received locally. Almost all 10,000 copies are now picked up within ten days, which is incredible.” He added: “The survey is a really important

exercise for us and allows us to find out what our valued readers enjoy and collate ideas and suggestions to help us develop. At the end of the day, it is a ‘community newspaper’; we feel it belongs to the town, so it’s only right we ask readers for some constructive feedback.” TO COMPLETE the survey, which only comprises of eight questions, simply either scan the QR Code here or visit https://bit.ly/HN-Survey-Feb24

Bexhill Wheelers and 1066 Cycle Group on ride out to Brown Bread Street, Ashburnham

Nusrat Ghani MP nus_ghani Nusrat Ghani

HAILSHAM AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE

PRESIDENT’S REPORT, MARCH 2024

OUR AGM was held on 20 March at The Laurel in George Street, Hailsham and attended by over thirty members, sponsored by members Stevens & Carter, the very active and popular estate agent in Hailsham’s High Street.

President, Clive Soper reported to the meeting: “2023/4 has been a busy and productive twelve months for us.

The Chamber’s 2022/3 term concluded in March 2023 with our customary Big Business Breakfast at B12 Bar & Kitchen. Membership was approximately 85, and our Event Manager, Stevens & Carter’s Sam Beale had begun organising successful events, hinting at greater things to come.

The Business Improvement District was still being promoted and developed, but more on that later.

Unfortunately, our December meeting last year at B12 Bar & Kitchen was to be the last at that venue as, immediately after Christmas the venue closed its doors as the operators were unable to maintain profitability due to rising costs and falling income, not a good partnership.

Owner, Melvyn and the staff served the Chamber well. I would like to thank them for their support, wish Melvyn well with his other business ventures and hope that we haven’t seen the end of B12 — or whatever it becomes.

So far this year there’s been a worrying trend in Hailsham towards closures of hospitality venues which I hope will start to reverse soon.

We now have a hundred members, which continue to attract more, however, we must not stand still, we need to provide our members with all the benefits they have come to expect.

Our monthly Big Business Breakfasts are extremely popular; indeed, we’ve had to restrict numbers this year due to space, selling out last month a week before the meeting and, this seems to be the trend for April’s meeting too.

We also actively represent and advocate for our members at various levels of government.

Representatives from our Chamber sit on ACES (Association of Chambers in East Sussex), and hold board-level positions on the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP).

During the past seven years, SELEP has allocated £760 million in funding for projects in Kent, Essex, and East Sussex. The government has closed all Local Enterprise Partnerships, we await its replacement.

The Chamber also holds board

example of our influence was seen when Chris Bending, Head of Place at Wealden District Council, addressed our sell-out November Big Business Breakfast. Chris discussed various developments within Wealden, including Knights Farm, the cattle market development, Vicarage Fields, and the new local plan. This plan has been presented to Hailsham at the

Earlier, I mentioned grants, which leads me to discuss the Business Improvement District (BID). With over 300 BIDs across the UK, it’s evident that areas with BIDs thrive and attract government funding.

Locally, Hastings, Rother, Newhaven, Brighton, and neighbouring Eastbourne have received millions

This highlights the importance of supporting the Hailsham BID. It’s no coincidence that funding lands in Business Development Districts, it’s because BIDs demonstrate both business and local authority commitment to development, defining areas deserving of government support and translating it into success.

If Hailsham’s BID had been up and running where the Vicarage Field project has just been cancelled it’s likely that funding would have been available.

Businesses must prioritise getting the BID operational. However, without initial financial support from both Wealden District Council and Hailsham Town Council, demonstrating support for both business and the community, the BID is less likely to progress to the development stage and secure the vote of businesses, thus establishing a

interested parties and pdf copies of the BID prospectus is available on our website at www.hailshamchamber. co.uk/bid/

We recently learned that the main road through the Diplocks Industrial Estate will undergo planing and resurfacing soon. While this is excellent news for our premier industrial area, it’s unfortunate that East Sussex County Council has opted for Balfour Beatty, despite having one of the country’s top road contractors, Hailsham Roadways, nearby. The Chamber will be writing to East Sussex County Council to enquire why their procurement team didn’t choose a local contractor, thus keeping employment and money within East Sussex.

Hailsham Chamber is a vital business support organisation, offering incredible value at just £90 per year. While networking is a key aspect of our activities, our invaluable. As Chamber President this year, I’m proud of our achievements

BID up and running by early 2025 the

Sussex County Council to continually

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MONKSEY’S MUTTERINGS

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE

IS IT just me, or does anyone else find it strange that our perception of time is all messed up?

We seem to accept that modern life is lived at a faster pace than it used to be, although it isn’t always the case in our town.

We will sit at traffic lights in our cars and remain stationary for what seems longer than Pinocchio’s nose if he worked as a spin doctor for the government. We seem to spend an age sitting in traffic on South Road, London Road, and Diplocks Way as we note the thousands of houses being built without a second thought by our elected authorities. Are they that daft they didn’t think an improved infrastructure would be a good idea? Actually, they probably didn’t.

We all spend literally hours over the course of a month trying to navigate the last mile of our journey to our homes in Hailsham, unwittingly and unwillingly adding pollutants into the air along with missing precious time with our families and loved

CROSSWORD WORDSEARCH – BREAKFAST

Cereal

Toast

Eggs

Coffee

Juice

Milk

Pancakes

Bacon

Fruit

Yoghurt

ANSWERS

LAURIE’S

ones as we sit patiently waiting for the queue of traffic to edge forward as slowly as a herd of snails wading through peanut butter.

Compare this to the memories of driving through our town 20 years ago, and you’ll find it’s the difference between dial-up internet in the 1990s and superfast fibre broadband. The ironic thing is we used to wait 10-20 seconds for a line-by-line image of Kid Creole and The Coconuts (Google it!) to download, but nowadays we can get all 14 studio albums and the artwork downloaded in nanoseconds — UN-BE-LEIVABLE

that

they had 14 albums!

The irony of all this is that we happily pay £30-£50 per month for the privilege of saving a precious few seconds when searching for a download of Annie, I’m Not Your Daddy or Stoolpigeon; we also pay circa £250 a month in Council Tax to Wealden District Council (although they only collect it on behalf of East Sussex County Council as they are too busy passing more daft planning permissions that are totally unsuitable) for the privilege of spending hours in traffic — one saves you minutes and the other costs you hours.

The second irony is that before FTTP (Fibre to The Premises), broadband speeds were all about the ‘Last Mile’ connection, and technological advancements have been immense. On the converse side, the time taken for the last mile drive home in Hailsham has now deteriorated quicker than the electorates’ faith in WDC, ESCC, and The Government.

So please feel free to give me a wave next time you see me sitting in my car as I negotiate the car park that is Hailsham’s road network.

Until next time, people.

www.verymagic.co.uk

ACROSS

6 Sedentary kind of General (8)

8 Something of little value (4)

9 Dogma (5)

10 Look up to (6)

11 Activity necessary for scaling Everest (4,8)

13 Disturbed men only met up for inactivity (12)

16 The — Flyer, first heavier-than-air powered aircraft (6)

18 “If It — Been For Love” (Adele song) (5)

POEM CORNER

SO, APRIL is now here with the very welcome longer lighter days allowing us to feel that the weather is improving, with perhaps the “foundation” of a summer on the way, or hopefully brighter days anyway.

This hope requires a positive attitude though as any venture start must have, because whether a new business, construction or a relationship etc, if anything is only half-heartedly taken on it will be very likely to fail, thus go for it then!

My following poem entitled, yes, “Foundation”, from the 9th of my now 13 published poetry books will give you some hints and pointers as well. Thus poem Foundation follows.

19 It’s rolled towards a jack (4)

20 In a manner free from danger (8)

DOWN

1 Members of a flock (8)

2 Beautiful (6)

3 Car exhaust pollutants (12)

4 Organised group of criminals (3,3)

5 “The Sign of ---” (Conan Doyle) (4)

7 It brings one back to Earth (7,5)

12 Don’t mention it (3,2,3)

14 Business big shots (6)

15 Venerated townspeople (6)

17 Chamber (4)

FOUNDATION

If anything in life is going to succeed

A relationship, building or way of living,

It is imperative that it’s all started well

From the bottom up and no leeway giving,

To allow any flaws or imperfections there

At this important statement of registration.

Because to last well and withstand assaults

It needs building on a strong foundation.

For most things in life will have their trials

Whether it is dwellings or relationships.

So we must take up our guard with this,

To ensure nothing precious to us slips

Away to be lost forever and maybe tainted,

Or perhaps has structurally dangerous flaws,

As we must protect what’s precious to us

To prevent any sad closing of doors.

Although to build a reliable, sure feature

It takes great commitment and sacrifice,

For it must be durable and rock like

As great opportunities won’t come twice.

So make your loving safe-haven secure

With much confidence in your creation,

That you can moor up to very happily

On getting to a desired life station.

But to complete this involvement well

It doesn’t have to be all effort and toil,

Because you can have some enjoyment too

And good fun the industry won’t spoil.

For with good chances of lasting content

You can just relax when you arrive,

Knowing with this strong foundation

Your love and creations will thrive.

BRAD MONKS

Fundraiser to improve Pavilion facilities launched

HAILSHAM UNITED Junior Football Club has raised hundreds of pounds in a fundraiser to purchase essential materials to improve the club’s facilities.

The appeal has been launched in an attempt to raise £4,000 to complete the improvements works on the Club House/ Pavilion on the Maurice Thornton playing fields.

A spokesperson at the club said:

“We have amazing help from club coaches, committee members, and volunteers, as well as unbelievable donations from local businesses, but we still have a way to go to get it finished which includes the need to purchase materials and specialist labour to finish the project. The club have worked tirelessly for several months now to improve the facilities for our 300+ players!

Estate Agent supports Hailsham Run event with free reusable bottles

PARTICIPANTS OF the forthcoming Hailsham Run in May will run away with a gift from Roland Dunn Sales & Lettings, in a bid to cut down on single-use plastics.

Roland Dunn and his team will be handing out free reusable water bottles at the finish line of the race next month, which attracted hundreds of runners when it returned to the streets last year.

The agents, based on Station Road, say it is proud to be a ‘Hailsham Refill station’, which is part of a national network of ReFill locations, which promotes the use of reusable water bottles.

The business is listed on the Refill. org.uk mobile app which allows people to find them and refill their bottles with free filtered water from their office, as part of the scheme.

Roland Dunn said: “Walkers, Runners and cyclists love it. It saves them from hunting for clean taps and using throw-away plastic bottles. They just bring in their reusable bottles and we fill them for free, with a smile.”

Street on Sunday 19th May, from a challenging 10K Run to an all-inclusive one-mile route. Visit www.hailshamrun.co.uk to find out more and sign up or scan this code with your mobile now. You can download your ‘ReFill’ App from Apple’s App Store or Google Play.

We really hope the work we have done and the donations we have so greatly received will serve our football community for years to come and give our players, coaches and supporters the hub that they all so greatly deserve for the effort they put into teaching and supporting our youth.”

To donate and see the progress of the fundraiser, visit https://gofund.me/3537bad2

Bowling Club announces open Harriers celebrate at awards event

HAILSHAM HARRIERS were delighted to be crowned overall champions of the 2023 Sussex Grand Prix — a series of twelve running races held across East and West Sussex from February to November.

With a variety of distances from 5 miles to 15 miles, they competed against 18 running clubs in a bid to win the title.

The Kings Head in Hellingly became a sea of black and red as the club came out in full force to watch Ladies Captain, Helen O’Sullivan and Men’s Captain, Carl Barton lift the Steve Ovett Trophy on behalf of the team and their 56 members who ran one or more races, scoring vital points towards their success.

Alongside lifting the champions trophy, forty-five individual awards were presented to members recognising their age category achievements, notably Frances Delves and Roberto Proietti who joined Hailsham Harriers in the 80’s.

As the club celebrates their fortieth anniversary this year, the Sussex Grand Prix has always played an important part in the club’s history. Their 2023 win becomes their seventh championship title since the series began, with their last title gained in 2000.

FOLLOWING ITS recent centenary celebrations, Hailsham Bowling Club is hoping to attract new members with a number of open days next month. Residents who want to find out more about the sport, or want to get back into playing it, are being invited to go along to the venue behind the Freedom Leisure Centre to find out more.

A spokesperson from the club said:

“It really is a sport for all ages and abilities - getting you out in the fresh air taking part in gentle exercise in great company and surroundings, which is so good for your general well-being and mental health.”

The free open days, which will host ‘have-a-go sessions’ will take place on 4th and 25th May from 10am to noon.

an eighth championship title in their

The club will also be planning many

Hellingly 10K will pay homage to the

Sussex Grand Prix Champions 2023

Sussex Grand Prix Champions 2023 (team)

Haisham Bowls Club Open Day

If

Trusted

Winning start for Stringers new men

PHOTOS: ALAN HOOK

HAILSHAM TOWN returned to winning ways recently with a 3-1 victory away at Rottingdean Village. The Stringers, under the new management of Mike Baker and Callum Standish, conceded an early goal against the league’s bottom club, but were level within three minutes after a free kick on the edge of the area was cleverly worked to Harry Butler to drill home from the angle. Hailsham took the lead soon after — a corner partially headed clear, before a Rottingdean defender headed the ball back towards goal,

and the defender on the line could only guide the ball into his own net. With the weather changing throughout the game, halftime was marked with a hail storm, with the Stringers adding a late third through Owen Muller from close range in the closing minutes.

The winning start to the new regime came after a frustrating afternoon the previous week, when Capel failed to fulfil their fixture against the Stringers, meaning the hard work of volunteers to arrange to move the game to Newhaven’s Trafalgar Ground in case of weather disruption was in vain.

Eagles return to track after three-year absence

New joint-manager Mike Baker has joined the club from Peacehaven and Telscombe, whilst Callum Standish has stepped up from the assistant manager post he held previously. The managerial duo should hopefully get their first game in charge at The Beaconsfield on Easter Saturday, when Upper Beeding are due to visit (2pm), before Rottingdean Village play the return fixture at Hailsham on Saturday 6th April (2pm), and the season concludes in the grounds of the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath on the 13th, when the Stringers visit St Francis Rangers.

“We know there is plenty of goodwill towards the Eagles. Our campaign has attracted a lot of comments and a lot of support. But this is an important opportunity for people to show they want their speedway back

campaigners have called for a massive show of public support when an Eagles team returns to track action after a three-year gap.

home but will resume racing in a special challenge match against historic rivals Kent Kings on Sunday April 14 (2pm).

The Save Eastbourne Speedway Group wants a large turn-out of

public backing for the sport’s return to Sussex.

The Eagles last rode professionally in 2021, before the then promotion collapsed mid-season with heavy debts.

Spokesman David Graveling said:

Junior training resumes for aspiring young cricketers

Hailsham Cricket Club is restarting its popular training sessions this month (17 April).

They provide an exciting opportunity for young boys and girls aged 4-17 to engage in outdoor cricket activities. Held at the Western Road Recreation Ground in Hailsham, the sessions are organised for children of all skill levels to participate, with no prior experience or equipment required.

The sessions cater to various age groups, with teams forming and playing local clubs from the U10’s age category and upwards.

Notably, there are exclusive opportunities for girls, including the formation of girls-only teams. This inclusive approach aims to foster a supportive environment for all participants, encouraging camaraderie and skill development.

The first session is complimentary, allowing newcomers to experience the program firsthand. Following this, sessions are priced at £4 each, operating on a pay-as-yougo basis. This flexible payment structure ensures accessibility for all families, regardless of financial constraints.

With an emphasis on fun, fitness, and teamwork, the junior training sessions promise to be both enjoyable and enriching for young people in the community.

“If we can attract a good number of supporters to the match in Kent, it will be noticed more widely and provide a big boost for our campaign. If you want the Eagles back, this is how you show it. Please come and support us on April 14. Let’s fill the stadium with blue and gold colour.”

The match, a six-man team event run over 15 heats with a full second half, is being staged at the Iwade circuit just off the A249 north of Sittingbourne (ME9 8SP).

Eagles have named a strong team with plenty of Sussex connections. Captain Nathan Ablitt rode for the side in the ill-fated 2021 campaign and Jake Knight was a key member of the club during their National Development League era. Nick Laurence and Vinnie Joe Foord both live close to Eagles’ former Arlington home and the team is completed by Ryan Kinsley,

Parents are encouraged to register their children and join in the excitement of outdoor cricket activities at Western Road Recreation Ground.

Contact Hailshamcc@outlook.com or 07980146841 for more details.

who helped Oxford win the National Development League title last season, and Arran Butcher.

“All the lads were very keen to do this meeting, for the Eagles, and the feedback from supporters since the team announcement is that they feel this is a line-up that reflects the Eagles spirit. I am looking forward to working with them,” said Graveling, who will share team manager’s duties with fellow campaign frontman Michael Gray.

The Save Eastbourne Speedway Group are also advertising for a social media editor.

For further information on the position, and further details on the April 14 meeting, go to eesc1929@gmail.com.

EASTBOURNE SPEEDWAY

Stringers goalscorer Owen Muller

The rolling hills of Sussex very much in evidence as Matt Fear shapes to cross.