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their light shine!
At the age of 74, Liban* had been in the dark for a year after losing his sight. ‘I did not know the colour of my shoes or clothes I was wearing’ said Liban.
Liban’s life was shrouded in darkness, but a partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation meant that MAF could fly a team of eye-specialist surgeons to restore his sight.
‘Your people are God-sent to set others like me free from darkness’, said a very thankful Liban.
Together, we can change lives.
At MAF, flying is at the heart of everything we do. For nearly 80 years our planes have soared across rugged mountains, dense jungles, and vast plains to reach those who are otherwise unreachable.
With your support, Liban from Sololo is one of 300 people who can see again, thanks to the work of MAF and the eye specialists our planes flew to remote parts of Kenya.
Please Join Us
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WELCOME
IT was incredible to host the Hailsham Hero Awards recently which you can read all about on Page 14.
Hailsham News, alongside Hailsham FM, have reinvented the awards to recognise those in the community whom deserve it. More than 3,500 votes were cast on the official website to find the winners in each category.
The room on the awards night was full of amazing people, many of which spend their free time, or in some cases, all of their time, to give back to their communities. These are amazing individuals who should be recognised in this way for what turned out to be an amazing evening for everyone.
We will hopefully be announcing a date for next year’s awards soon and will be inviting a fresh new round of entries — so watch this space.
Last month saw the annual bonfire celebrations hit the town with thousands of residents and visitors lining the streets to see the parade and fireworks to finish off the night.
The event is so important for Hailsham as it encourages many other bonfire societies from around the county to visit our town and I know that Hailsham stands out in the bonfire calendar as being one of the best.
I can certainly echo that as the procession never fails to impress and is still the biggest event in the town. The fireworks were absolutely incredible and it’s thanks to those who donate and volunteer at the bonfire society which is what keeps it running.
If everyone who attended the evening donated just £1 at the end of the night, then that would certainly secure the celebrations for many years to come.
Paul Gibson Group Editor
THE TEAM
PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR paul@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
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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.
Mayor pulls in support to secure new home for Museum
A NEW home has been secured for the town’s rope-making historical exhibition so future generations can benefit from it.
The display, which is currently located at Michelham Priory, comprises several mechanical plaiting machines, including an early 18th-century handoperated one, as well as original documents, photographs and other objects relevant to the ropemaking business that has been a feature of the town historically.
Originally, John Hawkins – the former Managing Director of Hawkins & Tipson, which took over the Hailsham rope manufacturers of Burfield’s and Green Bros – set up a rope museum in the former stables at Michelham Priory (operated by Sussex Past) after he retired from the company several years ago.
Following John Hawkins’ passing in 2017, the artefacts in the museum were transferred to his sons Nigel and David and subsequently, the decision was made by Sussex Past to use the space for other purposes. Hailsham Historical Society then agreed to have the exhibition relocated to the Hailsham Heritage Centre in Blackman’s Yard.
However, due to the lack of space at the Museum, The Mayor of
Hailsham, Councillor Paul Holbrook initiated discussions to secure a new home locally. As a result, Knockhatch Adventure Park agreed to house the exhibition on its site situated off the Hailsham Bypass. Representatives from Knockhatch, Marlow Ropes and Hailsham Historical Society met with the Mayor recently to discuss future arrangements concerning signage and the location of machinery and artefacts, and further planning will be carried out in the coming months ahead of the exhibition’s opening in 2025. Marlow Ropes has also agreed to contribute to the project.
Town Mayor, Cllr Paul Holbrook said: “It has taken some time and numerous discussions, but now everything’s coming together for the town’s rope-making exhibition. This is just the beginning of a very exciting journey to relocate these important historical treasures, and I look forward to working with Knockhatch, Marlow Ropes and Hailsham Historical Society to see this project through ready for opening next year!”
Chris Beveridge from Knockhatch Adventure Park commented: “We’re excited to be able to contribute to the preservation of Hailsham’s rich
Bede’s pupil elected to National
YEAR
has been elected to the National Youth Cabinet, one of only three representatives from East Sussex out of 300 members selected from across the UK.
After hearing about the opportunity through Bede’s, Mabel became an active member of the East Sussex Youth Cabinet. Following her success locally, she decided to pursue a seat in the National Youth Parliament. It was a competitive process — she delivered a two-minute speech followed by a five-minute Q&A session, which successfully earned her a spot as an East Sussex representative.
Speaking about her role in the East Sussex Youth Cabinet, Mabel said: “There are 18 of us from different schools, and we meet regularly to address the top issues affecting young people in our region.
During the ‘Make Your Mark’ vote, 11-18-year-olds identified Health and Wellbeing, alongside Jobs and the Economy, as top priorities. We have worked with local
rope-making history. This project is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the town’s heritage and provide a unique experience for visitors to our park. We’re already using donated fast rope from Marlow’s in our lemur enclosure, so we have a personal connection to the company and their products.”
Richard Goldsmith, Chair of the Hailsham Historical Society commented: “The recent meeting at Knockhatch was a very productive one, having discussed some of the preliminaries about how we are going to manage and look after the museum when it re-opens. We do have a lot of work to carry out over the winter, to sort through the photographs, check the machines and exhibits, and to work out how best to display them in the building.”
“We are very much looking forward to working with Knockhatch Adventure Park on this project and we are also grateful for the valuable assistance and input from Marlow Ropes. We must thank the Hawkins family for giving us the opportunity to continue looking after and developing the displays, which are so important to the heritage of our town. Thanks are also due to Michelham Priory and Sussex Past for their assistance with the transfer of the Museum.”
FOLLOWING months of delays, new public toilets and Changing Places toilet block in the centre of Hailsham is now open.
After six years of campaigning, local councillor Mary Laxton has hailed the project a success as the town has been lacking fully accessible facilities for ‘too long’.
The new pod, funded by Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money, was delivered and installed in March but ran into land ownership difficulties, so a main connection could not be made.
Memorial Stone for World War One Sailor
A commemorative stone has been unveiled at the Hailsham War Memorial to honour World War
One sailor, Alfred French.
Born in Hailsham on 6th November 1885, Petty Officer Alfred Frederick French was a submariner in the Royal Navy who, upon repatriation in 1918, was assigned to HM Submarine K5 which unfortunately never resurfaced after diving. He is recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as being ‘drowned in accidental loss of vessel’.
Work has now taken place and the pod is now fully open to shoppers visiting Vicarage Field.
It contains two modular public conveniences and a Changing Places disabled unit and is housed on the site of the old public toilet, opposite the Health Centre.
Internally, the facility comprises an electronic hoist, a rise-and-fall changing table, shower, toilet and wash basin, all of which are totally accessible.
Councillor Laxton said: “It may have taken six years, but we got there in the end — the difference in the last four weeks of work is amazing. We met lots of residents today using the facilities. Councillor Colin Mitchell, who put in a huge amount of time and expertise on the technical side, deserves a huge thank you.”
The Town Council has thanked Wealden District Council for its cooperation on the jointworking project from the outset and for agreeing to install the facility on their land.
Cars destroyed in blaze
Alfred French is already commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial, but his memory has now also been honoured in his hometown of Hailsham.
Mayor, Councillor Paul Holbrook said: “It is a great honour to unveil this commemorative stone and pay tribute to such a courageous man from our community. The unveiling of the stone at the Hailsham War Memorial not only recognises
sacrifice made by so many others from our town and district during this dreadful conflict.”
I very much hope that this commemorative stone — and the motive behind its installation — will ensure that PO French will be remembered for his bravery in years must never be forgotten.”
Fire crews tackle weekend house fire
or badly damaged after one caught fire.
Firefighters were called to Bramble Drive at 11:49pm on 2 October to reports of a fire affecting four private motor vehicles.
Two of the cars were destroyed
One fire engine from Hailsham was in attendance.
Crews used two breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet and firefighting foam to extinguish the fire.
There were no casualties reported and the fire is being treated as accident.
estate recently to fight a fire in a private dwelling.
Crews were called at 9.08pm on 18 October, to reports of a fire at a house in Saxon Close, Hailsham.
Four fire engines from Herstmonceux, Pevensey and
Members of the public were asked to avoid the area and nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed.
Four breathing apparatus and one hose reel jet were used to extinguish the fire.
There are no casualties reported.
Play equipment vandalism
THE Town Council is urging residents who witness antisocial behaviour or vandalism to Town Council-maintained property to report it to the police.
The message follows a spate of vandalism to the children’s play area situated next to the Western Road Recreation Ground in recent days, whereby damage has been caused to some items of play equipment.
The Town Council is appealing for incidents should be reported to the police immediately by calling 101.
The installation of the commemorative stone follows the completion of restoration works on the Hailsham War Memorial late last year, involving the repainting of lettering and numbering on the monument.
Tools stolen in series of van break-ins
A SERIES of van break-ins across Hailsham in one night saw £20,000 of tools stolen.
Police say there were five thefts from vehicles in Hailsham and Hellingly overnight on Tuesday 1st October.
The thefts, which took place on nearby roads and within a short time are believed to be linked.
It is thought there were up to four suspects who were dressed in masks, gloves and dark clothing.
They broke into the vans and stole thousands of pounds worth of tools, including cutting saws, grinders, nail guns and drills, into a black estate car, believed to be an Audi A6.
If anyone has any information they should call 101 and quote serial 161 of 2/10.
Sinkhole closes road
ENGINEERS were rushed to the scene of a water main burst recently which closed a busy route in town.
Water was reported to be coming out of a section of Battle Road last month which left around 70 local properties without water, and created a sink hole making the road unsafe. The closure lasted for two days.
The ceremony to unveil the plaque
Let’s start with
Slow Cooked Tender Sticky Beef Cheek
Red Wine & Port gravy with creamed mash potato.
Grilled Confit of Salmon With a rich Ratatouille and baked baby potatoes.
Venison & Madeira Steamed Pudding
Tender, locally shot venison in a suet crust with roast vegetables & potatoes.
Now in our 14th year, the favourite for festive dinners.
Stuffed Butternut Squash with fresh herbs & Cinnamon Rice
A colourful feast with roast pistachios, pomegranate and herbs. All
and desserts to finish
This fabulous 3 course festive menu is available throughout December 2024 served Tuesday to Sunday,excluding Christmas day. priced at £32pp, (no surcharges or add ons, the price we say, is the price you pay) Booking is necessary and requires a £10 deposit pp. A lunch time festive dinner of Roast Turkey with choice of dessert is also available for £20pp
The amazing faces and costumes in the Hailsham Bonfire celebrations
THOUSANDS lined the streets of Hailsham last night (Saturday) to witness the annual bonfire procession across the town which concluded with an incredible firework display.
Bonfire societies from across Sussex attended the event, bringing traditional costumes and banners to parade from the Vicarage Lane car park to eventually end up at the Western Road Recreation Ground.
A short memorial service was held in the town centre for a traditional prayer and minute’s silence. It was followed by a breathtaking explosion of firecrackers.
The evening ended with a superb firework display which started at 9:30pm and attracted thousands of people to the area.
A spokesperson from Hailsham Bonfire Society said: “Just wow, what an amazing night we had, and we
hope you all enjoyed it, thank you to everyone who came, and supported us. So if you enjoyed yourself and you didn’t have any cash, it’s not too late, you can still donate as we cannot make this event happen without your continued support thank you, and here is to 2025.
Donations can be made via Paypal to hailshambonfire@aol.com, or, https://pay.sumup. com/b2c/QPG0S38K
Rustico Hailsham under new management
RUSTICO Hailsham is a traditional Pizzeria and Neapolitan eatery offering fresh Neapolitan food available to eat in, take-away or have delivered to your door.
Conveniently located in the centre of the historic market town of Hailsham, Rustico embodies authentic Neapolitan cuisine. The concept was born from childhood memories of the food eaten in Italy using recipes handed down over generations.
They use Nonna’s recipes to deliver the same homemade experience, flavour, and tradition that they experienced in their own street of Naples.
The authentic traditional Neapolitan pizza oven, central to the kitchen, ensures each pizza is a delicious blend of tradition and taste. Whether craving the best Hailsham pizza, planning a delightful dining experience, or opting for takeaway or delivery, Rustico Hailsham is your ultimate destination.
The menu is designed around fresh ingredients, offering light bites, Nonna’s kitchen dishes
made of a range of pasta, pizzas and desserts plus a selection of beverages. The friendly ambience and a cosy décor create a very warm family atmosphere.
They do mainly Pizza and regional cuisine, everyone will recognise them as an Italian restaurant, but the food offer is Neapolitan and South Italian. Pizza is the most popular dish on the menu, but the street food dishes and the homemade cooking is what make them different.
They also have a little bit of retail, they sell basically anything they use inside, from wine, brandy, coffee, cannoli pastry, sauces, pasta, and even their own enamel plates, wood boards and cutlery.
The new owners of Rustico Hailsham are promising to bring customers ‘the best culinary and customer experience’ in Hailsham. The menu remains the same, what changes is the experience, the customer service, the atmosphere.
Bruno, with more than 20 years of experience in the catering world between Italy and the UK, is a professional and expert in how to
make a perfect coffee or cappuccino, the best cocktail or any dish of Italian cuisine.
A professional sommelier and wine enthusiast excited to bring his knowledge, experience and expertise to Hailsham. “After many years of experience and several restaurants and venues in Italy, I am thrilled to run Rustico in Hailsham, I feel at home here. From the first day I met the concept and the town I fell in love. Its simplicity, naturalness, authenticity reflects me very much.”
But what sets him apart in his work besides his passion is his ability and desire to make the customer happy. “This is a very rewarding job because you are always in contact with people, but what really makes me satisfied is when I can make my customers happy and give them the best dining experience.”
Alongside Bruno is Mohsen, a professional pizza chef who has been working with Rustico for several years. What the two partners have in common is their quest for perfection. In fact, Mohsen is an expert in the art of preparing true Neapolitan pizza and all the dishes on the menu. He takes care of every dish to the smallest detail and prepares each pizza with the utmost dedication.
They confided in us that they have many plans for Rustico Hailsham, but it will take some time to realise them all. They are certainly working hard day after day to make some improvements.
“We are very happy with how it
feedback so far from the residents of Hailsham and this gives us the strength and drive to do more and better. We have many ideas and
many plans, but it will take some time
For now, the main goal is to focus on the present, get to know our customers, the community, and slowly make some improvements.”
Hailsham development gets green light despite public concerns
CONTROVERSIAL plans to build on land off Battle Road have been approved after a long battle by residents and a nearby business.
More than a thousand letters of objection were sent to Wealden District Council, most of which were in an attempt to protect the future of the nearby Hook & Son business, which says the development will have a huge impact on its business.
The family-owned farm, Hook & Son, has been battling the plans for the development and said its business would become unviable if the plans
councillors that a public space is now planned for the area which had odour concerns, but officers implied that it wouldn’t be an issue to people using the space.
The plans will see the demolition of a home just off Battle Road to make way for the main entrance to the development and a new pedestrian crossing on the main road will be installed.
Councillor Everitt said: “The application in front of us has been substantially modified and has addressed the issues that had been previously raised, it has a large number of amendments comparing it to the previous application and is sensible in design. I’m going to propose an approval of this application.”
It was seconded by the chair of the committee Councillor Wilson, and the committee then went on to vote and approve the application.
Charity urges schools to sign up to money-saving charter
HAILSHAM Foodbank says it saw a sharp rise in the number of people making the decision to either pay for school uniforms, or, food and utilities just before the new school year in September.
The Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Hailsham Foodbank and Local Change, have raised concerns about the cost of school uniforms, school trips and class materials, forcing some parents into difficult decisions. In a recent community consultation
project conducted in Hailsham, the cost of school extras was voted in the top three issues that have a significant impact on families’ budgets.
Andi Jaffay, Local Organiser at Trussell Trust said: “Not all of these people’s children are on Free School Meals or Pupil Premium; many people who end up needing to use a Foodbank are working, but as Universal Credit doesn’t cover the essentials, it’s very difficult for a lot of families, especially if parents work
on a zero-hours contract.
Also, for a lot of families we speak to who are on a low income, it’s too embarrassing to speak to their children’s school and to accept a handout. Your school may not be hearing about everyone who is in need of support.”
In a survey sent out on a Hailsham Facebook page, 51% of respondents (of 180 people who took part) said that the cost of school uniform was the biggest issue affecting their
family finances whilst and 20% said the cost of school trips was the biggest issue.
Some schools offer systems which naturally support all families, without the need for parents to feel singled out or embarrassed to ask for help.
Andi added a plea to local school management teams: “Maybe your school is already doing great work in this way. If so, you may like to join our Fair for All Families schools charter. Or if you’re yet to develop a system that supports all families, perhaps we can share with you some ideas from what other local schools are doing, to inspire your school.”
The Trust is asking all schools in the area to set up an effective system to support all families on low incomes
(not just those on Free School Meals or Pupil Premium) and to join the charter.
In Sussex Weald, there are around 4,500 children in poverty. That’s 25% of children in this constituency, according to figures.
The charity says Willingdon School is a great example of supporting families in all income brackets. Willingdon operates a secondhand uniform swap shop. Parents give secondhand uniform to the shop and other parents buy for a fraction of the cost. If parents cannot afford it, they don’t pay. Funds raised are put in a pot that pays for school trips and class materials for pupils from low income families.
More information can be found at www.localchange.uk.
Steve Hook, Owner of Hook & Son
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
BUSINESS LOCAL NETWORK FOR ENTREPRENEURS
Come and enjoy our relaxed and natural atmosphere. At BLN, we pride ourselves on providing a warm and relaxed vibe with no awkward elevator pitches. Conversations flow naturally, allowing business owners to speak freely and engage in meaningful dialogue, brainstorm and problem-solve.
Uckfield: Hurstwood View, TN22 3FH, Tuesdays: 12 Nov & 10 Dec. £10 — To book: www.bit.ly/BLN-Uckfield
Hailsham: Abbots Wood Manor, BN27 3AL, Tuesdays: 19 Nov & 17 Dec. £10 — To book: www.bit.ly/BLN_Hailsham
Christmas Business Collective — AKA, our Xmas Gathering at Mortain Place on Friday 20 Dec, 2pm-4pm. To book: ww.bit.ly/BLN-Xmas2024
BEXHILL
CRAFT FAIR. St. Barnabas Church Bexhill. Saturday 9 November from 10am-2.30pm. FREE entry. We have over 30+ local crafters selling beautiful handmade items. Pop-up cafe with homemade cakes & soup. Tea & coffee available. We would love to see you there.
BEXHILL STAMP & POSTCARD CLUB. St Augustine’s Church Hall, Cooden Drive, Bexhill, TN39 3AZ. Wednesday 27 November, 7.30pm. Join us for our AGM and then enjoy some short presentations and displays, followed by refreshments and our phenomenal world renown raffle.
BEXHILL ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP TALK. Beulah Hall, Clifford Road, TN40 1QA. Wednesday 27 November, 7 pm. ‘A Window Beneath the Waves’. An illustrated talk by 2 divers from Sussex Underwater. Everyone welcome, entry £2 non-members. Email: bexhilleg@yahoo.co.uk
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR. St Stephens Church Hall Bexhill. Saturday 2 November, 10am-2pm. The Christmas Craft Fair is brought to you by The Crafty Collective. Come and get some Christmas gifts made by local handmade crafters. Refreshments and homemade cakes available. Free parking, free entry. Raising money for a local community mental health facility.
EASTBOURNE
PEVENSEY BAY ART GROUP — COFFEE MORNING & EXHIBITION. St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Eastbourne Road, Pevensey Bay, BN24 6EZ. Saturday 16th November, 10am-1pm. Free entry. Paintings by local artists for sale, refreshments and tombola. Meet some of the artists, enjoy a cuppa and discover more about our friendly art group.
HARMONIZE PRODUCTIONS PROUDLY PRESENT A MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA. Eastbourne Borough Football Club, Priory Road, Eastbourne. Friday 15 November, Doors open 6:30pm, show starts at 7:30pm. £10 per ticket. All proceeds go to Eastbourne and District Veterans CIC (07483 291651). Music from a range of genres. For more info: 07554 880964
PEVENSEY BAY LOCAL MARKET. St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Eastbourne Road, Pevensey Bay, BN24 6ER. Thursdays, 1pm: 7 Nov, 5 Dec. Saturdays, 1pm: 2 Nov, 7 Dec. Indoor market selling locally made produce and crafts. Refreshments available. Stall enquiries, Karen King 07789 231763
FUN INCLUSIVE BASKETBALL SESSIONS (WEEKLY). Defiant Sports Inclusion Hub, Archery Recreation Ground, Willoughby Cres, Eastbourne, BN22 8RA. Every Saturday, 11.30am-12.30pm. Children 6 — 18. Adults 18+ (Children under the age of 8 must have a parent/ carer stay.) Parents/carers do not need to book. £4 per person, per session. For more details and to book: https://eequ.org/experience/2550/dates
HAILSHAM
STEVE’S HMI POKER CLUB. Hailsham Memorial Institute, Western Road, BN27 3DN. Now EVERY Tuesday, 7.15pm-close. HMI Membership/day rates apply; £2/day, full membership £38, renewal £28. Join Steve’s WhatsApp Chat for more details: https://bit.ly/HMI-Poker-Club
CUCKOO TRAIL HEALTH WALKS. The Conservation Volunteers. Horam, Hellingly, Hailsham, Polegate — All walks start at 10:30am. Improve your health and wellbeing with gentle, friendly outdoor walks along the Cuckoo Trail. Walk locations rotate weekly: 2nd Tues: Horam — old station platform (TN21 0HL); 3rd Tues: Hellingly — Station Rd car park (BN27 4EU); 4th Tues: Hailsham — South Rd car park (BN27 2AU); 5th Tues (if applicable): Polegate — in front of the station. No booking required, all walks are FREE, just show up for a friendly stroll. Contact Becky for details: rebecca.lewis@tcv.org.uk / 07483 045706.
To submit your listing for publication on this page, visit: www.eastsussex. news/community-noticeboard or scan this QR Code. The publishers cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions in this noticeboard.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST EVENTS
These are the details of some of the available events, but dates have not been set. The more people who register, the more likely the mentor will create new dates and you’ll be the first to know!
HAILSHAM FIRE STATION FUN. Come along to a working fire station for 4 hours of fun. Games, crafts, healthy eating and a fire engine! Ages 5-16. For more details and register your interest: https://eequ.org/experience/5237
WOODLAND ADVENTURE WEEK. Our HAF Adventure will comprise of 4 days of outdoor activities at Bushy Wood Activity centre near Hailsham. Ages 7-16. For more details and register your interest: https://eequ.org/experience/7264
CARDIO TENNIS SESSION. Weekly cardio tennis for all! Fast paced hitting and moving, get ready to get a sweat on whilst having fun! Held at Fishermen’s Green Tennis Courts, Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7LH, Costs £4 per person. For more details and register your interest: https://eequ.org/experience/2544
PQA YOUNG CREATIVES — EASTBOURNE! Make Art. Make Theatre. Make Dance. Make Film. PQA is a weekend performing arts Academy with over 200 Academies nationwide, providing tuition for children and young people from 4-18 years. PQA Eastbourne is one of the largest providers of performing arts training on the South Coast, offering outstanding performing arts training in an environment that is friendly, safe and rewarding. Costs £15 per session. For more details and register your interest: https://eequ.org/experience/3851
THE inaugural Hailsham Hero Awards Ceremony took place on Friday 18th October, which proved that not all superheroes wear capes.
Almost a hundred-strong crowd packed the Hailsham Town Football Clubhouse to find out who would win the prestigious Hailsham Hero title in five categories, recognising individuals and groups who are committed to their town.
More than 3,500 votes were cast during the last stages of the awards after the shortlisted names were announced in September. The categories were: Charity of the Year, Fundraiser of the Year, Group/Organisation of the Year, Young Person of the Year and the headline category, Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award.
The Hailsham Hero Community Award was set up by the Town Council, originally in 2017, to
recognise those people who have achieved great things for the local community. It was presented annually at the council’s annual meeting. During the COVID period, the awards were halted and wer never reinvented.
Working alongside the Mayor, Councillor Paul Holbrook, local media outlets Hailsham News and
return to the wild.
Shortlisted: Hailsham Foodbank, Children with Cancer Fund, Rosie’s Register
Hailsham Hero Awards recognise the town’s greatest community champions HAILSHAM ERO H
Hailsham FM joined forces to bring back the awards to recognise those who give back to the town. The awards were also supported by Sweetheart’s Party Boutique and Diamond Discos to ensure it all went smoothly.
Neal Mullery and Wayne Spicer presented the awards and announced the winners in each category.
Winner of Fundraiser of the Year: Millie Edwards Millie has completed a great deal of charity work for the YMCA, she organised ‘Love in a Box’ for the residents of the YMCA’s in the local area. She also did a skydive in Salisbury raising over £500. The YMCA means a lot to Millie, which supported her during what she called ‘A difficult time in her life’.
Shortlisted: Wayne Spicer
Winner of the Charity of the Year: East Sussex Wildlife Rescue Ambulance Service
The East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS) was established in 1996 as a voluntary group to aid individuals who come across sick, injured, orphaned, or trapped wildlife. The charity now helps around 6,000 casualties annually, offering essential help and relieve the suffering of our wildlife and
Winner of the Group/Organisation of the Year: Pass it On: Community Fridge
The Pass it On Community Fridge is a non-means-tested initiative which stops thousands of tonnes of food going to waste by allowing residents to enjoy it, rather than letting supermarkets dispose of it. Zoe Prior and her team were nominated for her continuous hard work seven days a week.
Shortlisted: Hailsham Hockey Club, Hailsham Boxing Club, Hailsham Fire Station
Winner of the Young Person of the Year: Harry Sefton
Harry was nominated for a Hailsham Hero Award due to his ongoing
Trevor Weeks from East Sussex Wildlife Rescue Ambulance Service collects his award Organisation of the Year Award went to Pass it On Community Fridge
Winner of Fundraiser of the Year Award Millie Edwards
Wayne Spicer runner up of Fundraiser of the Year
Organisation of the Year Award Finalists Hailsham Boxing Club,Hailsham Community Fire Station, East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Hailsham Hockey Club
Mark Bomber Hopgood, Alison Ridley and Naomi HolderUrwin representing Zoe Prior collect their runner-up certificates in the Mayor’s Hero of the Year category Harry Sefton wins Young Person of the Year Award
Hailsham Hero Awards were presented by Neal Mullery and Wayne Spicer from Hailsham FM Almost a hundred people attended to support Hailsham Heroes Hailsham Hero Award Line up
develop their ‘skills for life’ alongside the Leadership team. His colleagues described Harry ‘Like a dynamo’ with an enthusiasm to support others and thinks of others at all times before himself.
Winner of the Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award: Tony Biggin Tony was nominated to recognise his hard work and dedication to ensure the Hailsham Festival takes place in the town each year. The people who nominated Tony said he’s done so much for the town — writing, producing plays at the Hailsham Pavilion as well as being
a worthy winner of the prestigious Hailsham Hero Award.
Shortlisted: Alison Rodley, Zoe Prior, Mark Bomber Hopgood.
Paul Gibson, editor of Hailsham News, said: “It was a fantastic event which brought together all these amazing people who are dedicated to giving something back to their communities and making our town an amazing place. A huge well done to everyone who entered, as anyone who spends their time helping others should be congratulated and recognised.”
The date of the next year’s event is due to be announced in the next few weeks.
6th-31st December 2024
Runners Up of Charity of the Year category, Rosie’s Register, Children with Cancer Fund and Hailsham Foodbank
Tony Biggins from Hailsham Festival is awarded the prestigious Mayor’s Hero of the Year award
Pass it On Community Fridge volunteers meet Mayor Paul Holbrook
Young Person of the Year Runners Up with Councillor Alexis Clarke
THE BARLEY MOW: THE MOW-ST DELICIOUS FOOD
DID you know that the Barley Mow, in Selmeston, reopened under new management earlier this year? After being closed for what felt like ages, this much-loved pub has undergone a serious facelift, and we couldn’t wait to take a peek inside and see what’s changed. If you’re curious about what it looks like now and whether it’s worth a visit, allow me to spare you any further suspense.
After several years since our last visit, one of the most memorable quirks of the place was the life-sized model of a portly chef outside. Well, for better or worse, that’s no longer there (if my memory serves me, I believe it was stolen). What awaited us this time was something far more understated and charming.
Gone is the bright, white facade—now a more modest, toned-down colour that perfectly suits the pub’s rustic charm. Even the garage across the road has undergone a makeover, which, combined with the pub’s fresh new look, made us feel like we’d stumbled upon an entirely different village.
The sweeping bend in the road hugs the Barley Mow, and as you pull into the generously sized car park, you can’t help but notice the fantastic event space out
back. This is where summer happens, and you can picture long, lazy evenings here, with drinks in hand and laughter in the air. This was my idea of heaven, and I wanted to stay here – forever.
We approached the front entrance and were greeted by the lively owner, Matthew. It’s a fine art being a host who can balance attentiveness with giving diners the space they need to mull over their choices, and Matthew had it nailed.
It wasn’t until later that I learned of his Brighton restaurateur background, which explains his flawless execution of hospitality.
As for the menu—oh, where do I start? It’s one of those rare instances where everything sounds so delicious that the process of elimination becomes impossible. We started our journey with the selection ‘For the Table.’ With choices like selected breads, butters, oils & hummus, Olives in marinade, and Salted crisps (carrot, parsnip & beetroot), we were spoilt for choice. After much deliberation, we finally settled on the Pork Chicharrones (£4.50), described as a pork crackling but on a different level. And let me tell you, it was love at first crunch. These weren’t your ordinary Chicharrons — large, golden shards of
crisp pork heaven!
Moving on to the ‘Smalls’ menu, we could’ve skipped ahead to the mains, but … there was the Wild Boar Terrine (£10.50), packed with pigeon, pheasant, pistachio, and local cider chutney, it’s a dish I’d happily return for. Alongside that, we ordered the King Prawns, served with harissa, cucumber ketchup, and mango mint yoghurt. At £10.50, the prawns were succulent and perfectly spiced.
By this point, we were already feeling full, but the Classics menu was calling, and we couldn’t resist. These dishes may be labelled as classics, but each one comes with a twist that puts the ‘extra’ in extraordinary. Take the Ploughman’s, for example. Typically, you expect a square of cheese, a slice of ham, and maybe some pickle if you’re lucky. Here, they go all out with local ham & cheese, scotch egg, or local sausage—a far cry from your average Ploughman’s. We opted for the Bavette steak (£18), served with Café de Paris butter, confit garlic, and tomato. Now, if you’ve never tried bavette, you’re in for a treat. This flank cut is known for its deep, beefy flavour and, when cooked mediumrare, it’s melt-in-the-mouth tender. To
Nursing care -
Woodside Hall specialises in 24hr complex care; we pride ourselves on our friendly homely atmosphere
We have a dedicated GP surgery who visit our residents weekly
The service provides specialist areas of care:
Palliative/End of life care
Rehabilitation following hospital admission
Dementia care
Our primary focus is hollistic care
You can enjoy home cooked meals prepared daily by our chefs.
against the grain, and the result is nothing short of excellence.
Meanwhile, the Bok Shop Super Saiyan Burger (£16) was another standout. The chicken thigh, breaded to crispy perfection and topped with miso mayo, pink pickled onions, and served in a brioche bun, was an absolute flavour bomb. If you love a good burger, this one will not disappoint.
If you’re in the mood for something even heartier, the Tomahawk Pork Chop (£24) should be on your radar. We caught sight of it as it was served to another table, and it’s the kind of dish that makes you stop in your tracks. The chop is massive—so large that it barely fits on the plate. Served with colcannon, spring greens, confit apple, and local cider jus, it’s a feast fit for royalty.
For those with smaller appetites, there are more casual options like toasted rarebit, bacon sandwiches, and hot smoked salmon sandwiches. The children’s menu is equally impressive, offering mini versions of pub favourites
chips, chicken tenders, and penne with homemade Pomodoro.
For Dessert, although there was absolutely no need for it, we had our arms twisted to try the Lemon Tart with thyme, meringue and raspberry sorbet. It was so light and lemony, it went down a treat.
In short, the Barley Mow is back, and it’s better than ever. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a full meal, this is a pub that ticks all the boxes. Matthew’s passion and attention to detail shine through every aspect of the experience, and we can’t wait to return.. Barley Mow, Lewes Road, Selmeston 01323 811033 • www.thebarleymow.uk
EVENTS AT WOODSIDE HALL THIS NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
BRIAN HOWARD PIANIST
Experienced pianist offering a varied repertoire for everyone to enjoy. Sunday 3rd November at 2pm
RICK BONNER
Dynamic performer and saxophonist performing 50s/60s and 70s music. Sunday 10th November 2pm
CREATIVE MOJO CRAFT WORKSHOP
All-inclusive tailor-made craft activity afternoon. Tuesday 12th November 2pm
JJ FASHION POP UP SHOP
Afternoon specialising in high quality clothing for fifty plus. Tuesday 26th November, 2pm
HYDRO HOTEL FOR TEA AND CAKE
Wednesday 27th November 1.30pm
GUY SUNSHINE INTERNATIONAL
Award-winning singer/songwriter. Friday 29th November 2.30pm
CHRISTMAS FETE
Inspected on 31st January 2023
WHY NOT COME ALONG AND VIEW OUR HOME AND MEET OUR TEAM?
Join us for a wonderful festive afternoon with various stalls. Saturday 7th December 2pm
HAILSHAM CHORAL SOCIETY
Joyous afternoon of Christmas carols, mince pies and mulled wine. Thursday 12th December 2.30pm
CHRISTMAS PARTY
Residents, staff, family and friends are all welcome to enjoy and afternoon of entertainment, festive nibbles, and drinks. Friday 20th December 2pm.
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
BATES Green Garden is a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Partner Garden, which means that we have been approved by this horticultural charity as a Garden that provides inspiration and interest throughout the year.
It also means that RHS members can gain free access to the Garden on certain days when we are open. There are 220 such gardens in the UK, and the RHS hold regular Partner Garden days to enable us to network and refresh our knowledge and understanding.
I was fortunate to attend such a day last month, and the focus was on creating planet-friendly gardens. I have to say that Carolyn McCutchan (the original designer and creator of Bates Green Garden) was certainly way ahead of her time in terms of gardening sustainability and nature, but it was good to get some new ideas which we plan to implement over time. I thought that this month I would share my top five tips so that you too can feel you are doing your bit for the planet.
1: Plant a fruit tree. No matter how tiny your garden is, every plot needs at least one tree to provide beauty, structure, a habitat for wildlife and interest throughout the year. Why not make yours a fruit tree? That way, you will also
enjoy a bountiful harvest and benefit from all the goodness of home-grown produce. There are fruit trees for all situations, and I am going to recommend a smallish one that would also be happy in a container.
Prunus domestica ‘Opal’ is a superb early variety of plum. The red fruits have yellow flesh and an excellent flavour. This variety also has a long cropping period so you won’t get a glut of all your plums in one go! ‘Opal’ plums are good to eat fresh but also cook well for jams and crumbles etc. Your tree will stay compact even when fully grown and can reach up to 2.5-4m high, depending upon the rootstock that you choose. I would always recommend
that you buy from a reputable local nursery that will offer good advice for plums growing in your specific area.
2: Create a dead hedge. This is an upright structure of woody cuttings woven horizontally between vertical stakes. The stakes are usually the sturdier branches cut from trees or shrubs. This tangled maze provides a habitat full of life, hiding places for Blackbirds, Dunnocks, Wrens and Robins where they can also nest and forage. We are planning to start a dead hedge as a new feature in the Garden here, we will put the stakes in and then build it up month by month whenever we prune and tidy. The area we have in mind is by our bird feed camera and we will start this project when we coppice the hazels in January.
3: Buy local or grow your own cut flowers. I am a big believer in bringing plants inside for closer inspection and, although I am no floral designer, I love popping plants into vases to brighten my house. So many of the flowers we buy have been flown over from Holland-there is no need for this when we have a wealth of Flower Farmers in the UK. Visit the website flowersfromthefarm.co.uk to find yourself a local grower. Alternatively, grow your own! Despite
the month, you can still sow seeds of the gorgeous creamy white Ammi majus, nodding purple heads of Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’, delicate leaves of dill, all manner of colourful poppies which provide excellent long-lasting seed heads and Calendula, which come in all colours and will decorate not only your house but your salads too.
4: Pull up a slab. So many of the UK’s front garden have now been paved to provide car parking space. Garden soil and plants play a really important role in storing carbon, and so, the amazing fact is that if 30 million gardeners pulled up just one paving slab and planted 1m2 of perennial plants which could be herbaceous, trees or shrubs, and allowed them to develop naturally to maturity, this would be equivalent to heating between 86,000 to a million homes for one whole year. Now read that again….. Even if you share your front garden with your car, there will be spaces available to pop in some violas, creeping thymes or bugles and the bees will also thank you for this.
5: Finally, vow to leave areas of your lawn uncut next year. A tightly clipped, weed-free lawn is not wildlife-friendly and probably contains only three types
of grass which will limit the variety of creatures it supports. Agreed, you may need to keep some areas closely mown to allow children to play, but perhaps initially consider setting your mower on a higher height to allow a few low-growing daisies and dandelions to flower. Longer grass also provides extra protection from the sun and will make your lawn more resilient to drought.
Better still, reduce the mowing frequency and only mow on a 3, 4 or 6 week cycle to allow lawn flowers such as selfheal, buttercup and speedwell to flower. You will also encourage clover, adored by honeybees.
The best plan I think, is to stop mowing altogether between March and the end of August. So many grasses are food plants for a wide range of invertebrates, including the caterpillars of butterflies and moths and so, by leaving the grasses standing, you will allow the caterpillars to lay their eggs and complete their life cycle. We have so many butterflies in our Wildflower Meadow, and they are a real joy to behold.
I hope that you now feel inspired to help the planet by adapting your gardening habits. Enjoy all the colours, scents and sounds that November has to offer.
a busy charity operating several 16-seater mini-buses from our base at Berwick. We provide weekly timetabled public services in the Cuckmere Valley area, plus town services in Hailsham and Seaford. We also provide Private Hire.
WE NEED YOU!
Full training and back-up will be given. You may drive as many or as few shifts as you wish in any month; you choose when you want to drive. Weekends are in particular need of drivers. To find out more about us visit:
Home-grown flowers
HAILSHAM AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE
Comittee Meeting recap
Chamber of Commerce November
Big Business Breakfast, Thursday, 7th November, 7:30 am onwards, Wellshurst Golf & Country Club.
NET ZERO WORKSHOP: HELPING YOUR BUSINESS AND THE PLANET
AT the Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce, we believe in the power of collaboration. Our recent committee meeting was a testament to this, held at the cosy and welcoming Rustico, one of our valued Chamber members.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement as committee members gathered to discuss various projects and initiatives aimed at promoting and supporting the local business community. Topics ranged from upcoming networking events to ways we can further boost the local economy and strengthen ties between businesses in the area.
Huge thanks to Rustico for not only hosting the meeting but also creating such a warm environment that fostered productive conversations and new ideas. It’s moments like these that remind us how much can be achieved when local businesses unite for a common purpose. The future looks bright for Hailsham & District, with more initiatives coming soon to benefit our members and the wider community.
NOVEMBER BIG BUSINESS BREAKFAST WITH ROY SMITH
Join us for the Hailsham & District
Our November Big Business Breakfast is shaping up to be another stellar event! Whether you’re looking to expand your business connections, gain valuable insights, or just enjoy a hearty breakfast, this is the place to be. Networking has never been easier, with local business owners and entrepreneurs gathering in one place to exchange ideas and build relationships that benefit the community.
This month, we are thrilled to have Roy Smith from RTJ of Sussex, one of our own committee members, as our guest speaker. Roy will deliver a crucial 10-minute presentation on Fire Safety for Businesses, offering key advice on how to keep your workplace safe and compliant with regulations. With fire safety being such an important topic, especially in the colder months when the risk can increase, this talk is a must for all business owners who want to ensure their premises are secure and protected.
Besides the valuable insights, our Big Business Breakfasts are always a fantastic opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals, grow your network, and share knowledge. The informal yet professional setting is perfect for sparking new business ideas and collaborations, so don’t miss out on this essential Chamber event! For more details and tickets, visit hailshamchamber.co.uk/ meetings-events
In the current business climate, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. With energy prices rising and consumers increasingly looking to support eco-conscious companies, having a solid sustainability plan is vital for both cutting costs and attracting new business. That’s why we’re inviting local businesses to attend our Net Zero Workshop, designed to help you understand the steps you can take toward reducing your carbon footprint while saving money in the long run.
Organised in collaboration with Clean Growth UK and supported by the Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce, this in-depth workshop will cover everything you need to know about making your business more sustainable. Whether you’re just starting on your Net Zero journey or looking to refine your existing efforts, you’ll walk away with practical knowledge on energy efficiency, the latest sustainable technologies, and how to access funding for renewable energy projects.
Some of the key topics covered will include:
• Understanding Net Zero: Demystifying the jargon and helping you understand the business benefits of acting on sustainability.
• Energy Efficiency: Exploring the most impactful ways to reduce energy usage in your business,
from installing efficient equipment to driving behaviour changes within your team.
• Funding Opportunities: Discover what grants and funding options are available to help you invest in renewable energy solutions.
• Workforce Skills for a Greener Future: Learn about the growing importance of green skills in the workforce and how to prepare your team for the transition to a Net Zero economy.
The workshop will take place at Wellshurst Golf & Country Club on Thursday, 7th November 2024, from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. This is a free event exclusively for businesses operating within Wealden, so don’t miss this chance to equip yourself with the tools needed to thrive in a sustainable future. Booking essential via hailshamchamber.co.uk/ meetings-events
HAILSHAM & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES
The Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce continues to be a vital resource for local businesses, offering a wide range of benefits including networking opportunities, advocacy, and access to essential information.
With more than 100 members and growing, the Chamber remains committed to fostering a strong, supportive business community that encourages growth and collaboration. Through initiatives like the Big Business Breakfast, informative workshops, and special events like our upcoming Christmas Party, the Chamber provides members with multiple ways to connect and grow their businesses. It’s not
just about networking—it’s about creating meaningful relationships that contribute to the success of the local economy.
In addition to networking, the Chamber actively works on behalf of its members by engaging with local government on key issues, such as the Business Improvement District (BID) initiative, which aims to improve the business environment in Hailsham. The Chamber is also involved in charitable efforts and community projects, reflecting its deep commitment to the broader Hailsham area.
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE CHAMBER: CHRISTMAS PARTY 2024
Get into the festive spirit with the Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce at our annual Christmas Party! Held at the beautiful Wellshurst Golf & Country Club on Friday, 13th December 2024, this year’s party promises to be a night of festive cheer, delicious food, and fun. Kick off the evening with a welcome glass of Prosecco, followed by a delightful two-course meal, festive treats, and an evening of dancing to celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with colleagues or just want to enjoy a festive atmosphere with fellow business owners, this event is the perfect way to close out the year. Tickets: Members + 1 guest: £37.50 each. Non-members: £42.50 each. Dress to impress and let’s make it a night to remember! Why not bring the whole team and make it your business’s official Christmas do? For more details and tickets, visit hailshamchamber.co.uk/ meetings-events
HAILSHAM ACTIVE with Steve Wennington SAVE OUR SURGERIES
MY daughter works for one of the surgeries in Hailsham and she told me that most days, there are more requests for appointments than the number of appointments available.
Probably not a shock to those who have tried to get an appointment, especially since Covid.
There are two answers to this problem — more doctors/surgeries/nurses or fewer appointments required.
We can’t really do anything about the first, although we do think there have been missed opportunities with doctors’ surgeries in local planning, but that’s not for this column.
But we can do something about ‘fewer appointments required’.
In fact, we could reduce the number of appointments required by up to 50%, according to doctors and scientists’ research. But, you will need to become proactive to help. It’s actually a selfish request, as the more help you personally give to this challenge, the better you are likely to feel. Win win.
Here’s one example from one of
James West Centre on Monday and Tuesday early evening, and here are a couple of comments.
“I slept so well after last night’s session. It was great, really looking forward to next week.” — Julie. “Thank you Andrea for last night’s relaxing class.” — Jan.
These sessions are limited to booking, but very low cost (voluntary donation or free) and definitely worth it… and all without doctors’ prescription (although all the doctors I know are very supportive of our activities). There are lots of other classes for keep fit and particularly women’s health. Find out more about the classes we
THE HAILSHAM CLUB
run text to 07428 739905, or email andreakeepfit@gmail.com.
Sponsored and supported by Hailsham Active, Lightning Fibre, Active Sussex, Stepupsports & Pro-Eco Ltd, Hailsham Active has recently had discussions with Sharon Champion and Sammy Vine who are keen to set up an after school club for netball (initially aimed at local primary schools).
We have supported it by funding the first session held at Hellingly Hub on 28th October (at the time of writing this, there was already great interest).
We are also looking at raising the £600 required for basic kit so anyone can join. if you/your business would like to help sponsor this new club, I’m sure Sammy and Sharon would be delighted to hear from you. See page 26 for more information.
I was recently invited to attend a new crossfit session designed by CrossFit Hailsham (Diplocks Industrial Estate close to the BMW/Mini showrooms). The sessions are run by Ollie and Lauren who clearly know their stuff.
The sessions are not only designed to get us fitter and stronger, but also the most important aspect of fitness and sport that is often overlooked, helping with mental health by becoming part
of a community.
The first two sessions are free of charge. I have just completed my third, I am very pleased I got the invite and will be attending many more.
There are just four of us attending at present, but I am sure the numbers will grow quite quickly. It takes place at 11am on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
During the few weeks, I was invited to give a talk about Hailsham Active to these two amazing organisations.
The basic concept is to help others in our community, often through totally voluntary actions. So, it was an easy and supportive audience each time. It was interesting to go through our aims and
lovely to receive total support and ‘keep doing what you are doing’ message back. It’s always good to check that our aims still make sense!
Rest assured, we will continue with our aims as you continue with yours.
There’s been some great work by Hellingly and Herstmonceux Parish Councils recently, by planning major improvements to our recreation spaces.
This is a wonderful situation where the Parish Council understands and supports the needs of the local community, pushing for better facilities for our health and wellbeing. It is again very noticeable that when the Parish council is very community-centred and has direct knowledge of its local clubs, doors are quickly opened for support.
At the other end of the scale, we had a very positive meeting with Wealden District Council, hosted by Hailsham Cricket Club.
It enabled us to show what community sports and local businesses can bring to the benefit of the town. We are grateful WDC met us on site and also earlier in the month at Hailsham United, Maurice Thornton Rec, where we are trying to sort out the lease that will benefit the football club.
WDC knows and understands the issues and is reworking it. We will update you when it is completed satisfactorily for all parties. WDC assure us this is a priority.
Steve Wennington
beautifully presented, spacious and practical family home complete with an enviable location within the estate and boasting a southerly aspect garden, driveway parking and garage.
Inside it is arranged with an entrance hall, kitchen-dining room with utility, rear aspect lounge with bi-folding doors, wc, stairs to the first floor landing, main bedroom with ensuite shower room, three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. The rear garden is laid mainly to lawn with patio seating area while to the front is pretty borders.
Hellingly boasts acres of wonderful parkland, woodland, cricket ground and countryside walks all within a stones throw.
To explore this wonderful opportunity please take a look through our 3d virtual tour online teamed up with our professional photography before calling us for an accompanied viewing.
STEPHENSON CLOSE, HAILSHAM - £475,000
a chance to get creative and put their own stamp on it. The lounge is positioned to the front and provides space for your soft furnishings, a feature fire place gives the room a focal point and windows overlook the front garden. From here, a door leads into the kitchen dining room, there are plenty of cupboards for storage and work surfaces. A window and door overlook and afford access into the rear garden.
A modern and refitted shower room/wc is present. On the first floor you will find two large double bedrooms. The master is positioned to the front and boasts space for your associated bedrooms furniture alongside a fitted cupboard for storage. The second bedroom lies to the rear and is also of a generous size. Lastly the bathroom and separate WC comprise of a bath with shower over and wash basin. Externally, the front and rear gardens are mainly paved for ease of maintenance but offer areas for planting alongside off road parking and garage. Being sold with no onward chain moving could be quicker than you think!
Situated on a desirable corner plot within a peaceful cul-de-sac, this beautifully presented four double-bedroom home offers direct access to the adjacent greenspace, perfect for family living.
The interior boasts an inviting entrance hall, a bright double-aspect lounge, a spacious kitchen-dining room, a versatile third reception room, and a convenient ground-floor WC. Upstairs, the impressive L-shaped main bedroom features an ensuite shower room, complemented by three further double bedrooms and a stylish family bathroom.
Outside, the rear garden is thoughtfully designed for easy maintenance, adorned with a selection of mature plants and shrubs. At the front, the well-tended borders add to the home’s charming curb appeal. A driveway provides ample parking and leads to the garage.
To fully appreciate this wonderful family home, explore our 3D Virtual Tour and professional photography, then contact us to arrange an accompanied viewing.
A charming semi-detached house boasting one reception room, three cosy bed rooms, and a well-appointed bathroom, making it an ideal home for a small family or professionals looking for a comfortable living space. Situated in a sought-after location, this house is perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of being within walking distance to town amenities. The property has been recently refurbished, ensuring a fresh and contemporary feel throughout. Whether you enjoy hosting gatherings or simply relaxing after a long day, this house provides the perfect backdrop for your lifestyle. Parking is often a concern, but fear not - this property offers parking space for three vehicles and a garage providing you with the convenience and peace of mind that your cars are secure and easily accessible. Gleneagles Park is just a stone’s throw away, enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, or simply basking in the beauty of nature right at your doorstep. MEET YOUR DEDICATED TEAM
JOHN STEVENS
SAM BEALE
ALISON GRAY
SAMUEL TOWNSEND
CLAIRE D’AUBNEY
NICK RUSSELL
CROSSWORD WORDSEARCH – CLEANING
ANSWERS
NOVEMBER now, so getting colder with darker nights after the clocks just changed to go back, and so as often with me, my poem will reflect this, well in part anyway.
The poem was written in 2017, so in my 6th of 13 books, and is a true little story that will indeed show that all things can be “relative” to us all.
My central heating had been playing up a bit and I was somewhat annoyed, but on going down to a local shop a man was sat outside and asking for “any change”, and whilst there are many theories and opinions about these people, my immediate thought was that he had no central heating there to moan about!
I considered this, and thus my poem “Relative” was penned, and here it is to maybe get us all looking at life in a more relative manner?
RELATIVE
Our worries and problems in life
Can really bring us down, But what for us seems massive
To others it won’t cause a frown, For they have more titanic battles Which need fighting every day. Mostly to just get those basics That easily come our way.
Like the man calling out as I pass For the price of a cup of tea, Making me wonder on looking round Is he really different from me?
Maybe he’s dressed in similar clothes And hugs his can of strong beer, But surely we have similar worries When life’s troubles come near.
For this day I felt quite annoyed
About my central heating playing up, Then wondered if he even had a place And refuge, to sit with his cup, Of tea or coffee, that we all agree Can revive and fortify us anew. For if you are homeless and alone Many hardships are facing you.
But look how early he is drinking, I hear the cold cynics mutter. I know that, but if you have nothing, Perhaps it’s some comfort in the gutter. For maybe he was in our armed forces Once proud, but can no longer try. So I’m grateful of my relative fortune, As but for the grace of god, go I.
Time to prepare your vehicle to tackle the winter roads
PREPARING your car for winter is crucial as drivers should be ready for heavy rain and icy roads this winter.
Ensuring your vehicle is ready can help you avoid breakdowns and maintain safety on the road.
Here’s our guide on getting your vehicle winter-ready…
Check your battery — Cold temperatures can significantly affect your car battery’s performance. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested at a garage as cold starts take a heavy toll on old batteries, especially if you do short journies.
If necessary, replace it with a new one to avoid being stranded on a frosty morning. If your battery is generally in good condition, check for loose battery connections and clean any corrosion from the terminals, as this can hinder performance.
Inspect Tyres —Your tyres are your only contact with the road, so ensuring they’re in good condition is vital. Check the tread depth; the legal minimum in the UK is 1.6mm,
but 3mm is recommended for winter driving. Consider switching to winter tyres, which provide better grip in cold and wet conditions. Also, ensure your tyre pressure is correct; cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop, which can affect handling and fuel efficiency.
Windscreen and Wipers — Visibility is crucial during winter months, so inspect your windscreen for chips and cracks, as these can worsen with temperature changes. If you notice any damage, get it repaired promptly. Check your wiper blades; if they’re worn or streaking, replace them. Fill
up your windscreen washer fluid with a solution that has antifreeze properties to prevent it from freezing. Never pour boiling water over your windscreen when it is frozen as this can crack the glass and could lead to a costly replacement.
Fluids Check — In winter, maintaining the right fluid levels is essential. Start with your engine oil; switching to winter-grade oil can improve engine performance in colder temperatures. Check your coolant level and ensure it has the appropriate mix of antifreeze to prevent freezing. Also, top up your
brake fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid as necessary.
Lights and Indicators — As the days get shorter, ensuring your lights are working properly is critical. How often do you see vehicles with only one headlight working? Check all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights and indicators. Replace any burnt-out bulbs, and clean the lenses to improve visibility. Consider using higher-intensity, legal bulbs for improved illumination during darker winter days. Ask a friend to check round the car as you check the brake lights and high beam etc.
Emergency Kit — Prepare an emergency kit for your car, which can be invaluable in the event of a breakdown or severe weather conditions. Essential items include a first aid kit, a torch, a blanket, water, non-perishable snacks, a shovel, and a pair of gloves. Additionally, pack jump leads, a spare tyre, and basic tools to help you deal with minor issues. If you’re going on a long journey, check weather conditions for the day and dress appropriately.
Fuel Levels — Keeping your fuel tank at least half full during winter is a good habit. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the tank and provides peace of mind should you get stuck in traffic or face
unexpected delays. Plus, it ensures you have enough fuel to run the heater if needed. If you drive an electric vehicle, remember your expected range will be lower than normal in cold conditions. Prepare accordingly.
Drive Carefully and Stay Informed — Winter driving requires a different mindset. Be aware of changing weather conditions and plan your journeys. If snow or ice is forecasted, consider whether your journey is necessary. When driving, reduce speed, increase following distances and be gentle with your steering and braking to avoid skidding.
Consider Breakdown Cover — While taking precautions can minimise the risk of breakdowns, having breakdown cover can provide added peace of mind. In the event of a mechanical failure or if you get stuck, knowing help is just a phone call away can alleviate stress.
Professional Inspection — Finally, if you’re unsure about the condition of your car or how to prepare it for winter, consider taking it to a professional for a comprehensive inspection. Many garages offer winter checks that cover all critical areas of your vehicle, ensuring it’s safe and ready for the colder months ahead.
Alfie clinches national boxing title at 15 years-old
Harriers at the 37th John Faulds Hellingly 10K
BY HELEN O’SULLIVAN
WITH torrential rain through the night and into the early hours, the wet conditions held off for The John Faulds Hellingly 10K, organised by local running club Hailsham Harriers.
With the race now in its 37th year, close to three hundred runners gathered on the start line at Station Road, Hellingly.
The course, not too dissimilar to the first race held on September 30 1984, is a point-to-point course which takes in the undulating country lanes around Hellingly, finishing at Roebuck Park Cricket Pavilion.
The Hellingly 10K forms part of the Sussex Grand Prix, a series of twelve local races held throughout the year from March to November where local clubs compete against each other for individual and team prizes.
Congratulations go to race winner, Ollie Sprague, from Seaford Striders who finished with a time of 35:44, Hailsham’s Chris Doherty, enjoying a speedy season, flew home to take second place with 37:21 and finishing 3rd saw Sky Taylor-O’Neill from Crawley Saints and Sinners in 37:31. For the ladies, Hailsham’s Alice Denning ran a sensational race to finish first female in 42:24 with Melissa Galea from Horsham
Joggers second in 43:34 and Brighton and Hove AC’s Paula Blackledge a close 3rd in 43:51. Amongst the first-in-age trophy winners, Hailsham ladies scooped up many of the awards. Congratulations to: Lady Frances Delves, Tracy Erridge, Maria Smith, Audrey Haddon and Sarah Day. A team prize also went to Hailsham Harriers for the club with the biggest turnout of runners. Hailsham fielded 41 runners alongside their marshals, volunteers and race organisers. Seaford Striders were second and joint third saw Hastings Runners and Heathfield Runners.
Plenty of personal bests and course personal bests were achieved by Hailsham’s Oliver Paterson, Jo McGowan, Vinny Thrower, Katy Reed, Sarah Day, Lee Williams, Andrea Gikes, Maria Smith, Arthur Collins, Audrey Haddon, Lisa Phillips-Horner, Dave Garratt and Chris Little.
All finishers received a bespoke medal which commemorated the clubs 40th anniversary year.
Hailsham Harriers has thanked their race sponsors this year: Mango Insurance and Brewers Decorators Centre along with 1st Hellingly Scouts, who helped to marshal, Sport
army of members, friends and family who all got involved on the day to make a great atmosphere and ensure the safety of all runners. Tea, coffee and an abundance of cake were available to purchase at the race finish with Hailsham making a donation
Captain: Helen O’Sullivan 49:40, Gary Smith 49:40, Robin Warwick 49:52, Abi Morris 50:55, Lee Williams 53:11, Arthur Collins 55:25, Lou Lou Williams 57:48, The Ledge; Pete Daws 58:27, Lady Frances Delves 58:34, Andrea Gikes 1:02:26, Kevin Morris 1:03:42, Lisa Phillips-Horner 1:04:01, Ros Thomson 1:08:18, Karen Hoskin 1:12:43, Els Ruffell 1:16:13, Robbie Proietti 1:22:04 with tail runners Lisa Goldsmith and Tash Hawkes 1:24:00 completing the strong team.
To find out more information about Hailsham Harriers and how to join visit hailsham-harriers.org.uk
Team Hailsham
Race Director Sam Neame
Chris Doherty 2nd Overall
Audrey Haddon 1st Female V40
Alice Denning 1st Lady
the schedules.
The Stringers started the month with a 2-2 draw at home to Southwater in the league, with an end-to-end game seeing the Stringers first trail after a Samuel Berry goal on 23 before Mitch Ford drew Hailsham level in the second half. Stephen Adegboye netted late on for Southwater, but a deserved point was then rescued through Will Gordon in the second minute of stoppage time.
The following Saturday saw Ringmer AFC visit The Beaconsfield in the Sussex Intermediate Cup, with a season-high of 117 in attendance for a feisty local derby, which saw the Stringers run out 4-3 winners after an excellent brace from
Electricity was rained off, before the month finished with a 3-3 draw away at Worthing Town in the league —
Thompson again on target with a double, and Robin Deen also netting for Hailsham in a game that saw the Stringers have a fourth disallowed before the home side scored twice to rescue a point late on.
Hailsham begin November at home to Capel on the 2nd of the month, before making the long trip to Bosham on the 9th, hosting TD Shipley on the 16th, and then going to Upper Beeding on Saturday 23rd November.
The Intermediate Cup quarter final will see Hailsham face Westfield in the new year.
The Stringers women meanwhile
Cricket Club calls for new Umpires
AS Hailsham Cricket Club continues to grow and develop, it is attempting to increase the number of umpires and scorers it has available for games at the weekends.
The club is asking anyone who
may have an interest in umpiring to get in touch.
Rob Wilkinson from Hailsham Cricket Club said: “It’s a great way to meet new people and join a community-based inclusive cricket
Hailsham in an excellent win against higher division opposition.
Following up the cup success in the league, a week later Hailsham went away to Whitehawk, recording a 4-0 victory. Kirsten Bryant scored twice, the prolific Geri Burt added another, and Chloe Pollard was also on target for Hailsham. The subsequent league game against Mile Oak on Sunday 20th was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
The women begin November with a home game against Burgess Hill Town (Sunday 3rd), then go to Woodingdean Wanderers on the 10th, before welcoming Mile Oak (17th) in a rearranged game and Whitehawk (24th) to round off the month.
to the charity.
David Cohen, the Regional
club and have some fun. If you would like to get involved but not in the form of an umpire or scorer we would also like to hear from you. hailshamcc@outlook.com / 07980 146841.”
everyone for the warm and friendly welcome he was given.
Collaboration to combat knife crime
HAILSHAM Boxing Club has announced a unique partnership to tackle knife crime in the area.
In the face of rising knife crime, particularly among young people in the UK, the Hailsham Chamber of Commerce, Hailsham Boxing Club and Knife Crime Matters are teaming up in the hope of playing a crucial role in raising awareness and educating communities.
This partnership aims to tackle the root causes of knife crime and inspire young individuals to make safer, more positive choices. By working together, these organisations hope to reduce the prevalence of knife crime not just in the Hailsham area, but across wider regions as well.
Members of Hailsham Boxing Club, including coaches, staff, and associates, have undergone training to deliver Knife Crime Matters’ approved educational
course material. These courses are tailored to engage young people in a meaningful way, using real-life stories, statistics, and interactive activities to drive home the message. The core element of this partnership is the delivery of educational sessions about knife crime in local schools and within the boxing club itself. This initiative is particularly important because it takes the fight against knife crime directly to places where young people spend much of their time. By bringing these discussions into schools, Knife Crime Matters is able to reach young people before they become involved in criminal activities. Through these sessions, young people learn about the dangers of carrying knives, the legal consequences of being caught with a weapon, and the tragic outcomes that can arise from violent confrontations.
