Uckfield Matters April 2019

APRIL 2019 ISSUE #140
The
Active
Bunch
IT'S THE UCKFIELD MATTERS
ACTIVE EDITION
It's that time of year, where the good weather starts, and where
we all decide to get a little more active.
Be inspired and get active this April.
ALL THE LATEST UPDATES:
• Rotary
• Chamber of Commerce
• The Town Council Voice
• Lions
• Active Uckfield
• Uckfield Sports

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AN ACTIVE
BUNCH
OUR CONTRIBUTORS:
Bex Maini
Bex Blogs
Zoe Holland
Family adventure
David Eggleston
Sports
Ron Hill
Photography
Nicki Richardson
Events
Tilly Christie
Arts
Sue Edwards
Business
say 'hello'
01825 705066
hello@uckfieldmatters.co.uk
Facebook @UckfieldMatters
Twitter @UckfieldMatters
Instagram @uckfieldmattersmag
Angela O’Neill
Editor
What do you think of our front cover this month? We're
celebrating 'active', and that 'active bunch' are just some
of those people that get people moving or get people
involved in Uckfield.
Time for a name check! On the cover are: Alistair
Ward, local fitness expert; Dan Sims, whose passion is
getting people running; David Hall, part of an active
group of volunteers who look after our town's nature
reserves; Laura Scott, dedicated Brownie leader; Heidi
Greenwood, who is passionate about getting women and
girls involved in rugby; Michelle Clark, who runs fun
adult dance classes; Ryden Temple, local trampolining
star; and Tim Cottingham, who is Uckfield's tennis
guru, getting kids and adults of all abilities active on the
court. Some of these great folk are also featured in our
Community Champions section (p22).
There's so much to do in and around Uckfield - from
gentle walks, to bowls; dance to tennis. Table tennis
is on offer in Active Uckfield's next have a go day (p20).
Have a think about what you might try and see if you can
get more active (p34).
Easter's approaching, so Zoe rounds up some of the
est places to go for eggs, bunnies and Easter fun (p14).
Our own Nicki tells us about her journey to Living with
Less (p28), and Michelle encourages us to Walk Back to
Health.
With local elections coming up, there are other ways to
get active, too. Find out how you could stand for office
and what's happening when in The Voice (p41).
If you're inspired to try a new way to be active, perhaps
you'd let us know. Get in touch.
Have a fabulous, active April!
editors notes
Angela
44
Publisher: Panda Publications Ltd/Trading as Uckfield Matters. Distribution through 6,000 homes every month.
Although this publication does not vet advertisers, a number of complaints will mean that businesses will be considered for removal from further advertising. Uckfield Matters Notice: Uckfield Matters prints various
articles, features and advertisements. Although these appear in Uckfield Matters, any opinions expressed are the opinions of the author, not necessarily the opinions of the publisher. © Copyright Uckfield Matters 2018. The
contents of this publication are written specifically for our readers; no part may be reproduced elsewhere without express and prior permission.

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CONTENTS
Issue 140 | April 2019
featurearticles
Easter entertainment 14
Table tennis 20
Uckfield Community champions 22
Starting to live with less 28
Get active 34
Boots on, and walk! 38
Return of the jigsaw s 48
A letter home 50
EASTER
EVENTS
Get
WALKING
pg
14
communitymatters
Volunteer outside 18
Lions Fun Day news 19
Rotary's chosen charity 18
Spring clean 19
regularmatters
pg38
In the news... 8
About networking 54
Month that was 58
Sports latest 60
othermatters
Crossword 56
Community Calendar 64
localmatters
Uckfield Town Council 'The Voice' 41
Chamber news 47
7

newsinbrief
NEWS
community
HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT 2 BLOKES
AND LITTER PICKERS?
Uckfield is incredibly lucky to have groups
and individuals who give up their time
to look after areas of Uckfield, clearing,
tidying and litter picking, two of these
individuals are known locally as Two
blokes with some litter pickers, these 2
gentlemen have worked tirelessly around
Uckfield, in March they were out again, this
time tackling some of the Uckfield bypass.
The section cleared was exactly 1 mile
long, north of the Copwood Roundabout, it
took them 3.5 hours to litter pick 21 sacks
of litter. Well done 2 men and their litter
pickers.
HOW DO YOU SEARCH SAFELY ONLINE?
East Sussex County Council have advised
that when using the internet with children
to search for images or when browsing, to
use 'Kiddle' instead of Google. 'Kiddle' is a
child-specific search engine supported by
Google, which prevents the appearance of
things that are not suitable for them.
DON’T GET TRAPPED. BY
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Gillian Guy The CEO of Citizens Advice
recently provided comment for the Mail
on Sunday explaining that Citizens Advice
sees “hundreds of people every year who
have lost money from being trapped in
subscriptions they don’t want and find
difficult to cancel.”
She continues that: “Laws surrounding
subscriptions need to be reformed
urgently to stop firms being able to take
advantage of their customers.” and that
the government needs to act urgently and
companies responsibly.
She states that continuous payment
authorities are a huge issue and
the laws around these need to be
tightened. Companies that offer
free trials should also have to seek
your permission before that trial
ends and they begin charging you.
POLICE DOG AND HANDLER
CLAIM NATIONAL AWARD AT
CRUFTS
A Sussex Police dog handler and
his canine counterpart have been
recognised for their heroics with a
national award.
PC Tom Mills and PD Darcey,
his German Shepherd, are the
worthy winners of this year’s NPCC
Police Dog Team Operational or
Humanitarian Action of the Year
award.
In October last year, South East
Coast Ambulance Service required
Sussex Police’s assistance, having
been called by a man who had
stated in no uncertain terms that
he intended to take his own life in
a local park in Brighton.
Had it not been for the swift
actions of PC Mills and the quick
location of the missing man by PD
Darcey, allowing medical aid to be
given very quickly, the outcome
would almost certainly have been a
loss of life. Instead, after a spell in
an induced coma, the man went on
to make a full recovery.
The award was presented at Crufts
on Sunday 10 March and was
televised on Channel 4.
88

CAN YOU HELP KEEP LAKE WOOD
TIDY?
The Lake Wood Volunteer Group has
reported that unfortunately people
have been busy building more 'camps',
which need to be dismantled and the
sites cleared up. As there is no formal
group or arranged meetings, they are
just putting out a general request to all
locals - if you are heading to Lake Wood,
please consider taking some plastic
sacks and some gloves to make a bit of
a dent on the litter situation, as every
little helps! Or, if you were thinking
about a project for the Great British
Spring Clean which is just around the
corner, then this could be a good target
to aim for.
We are coming up to Spring, a very
delicate and important time for new life
emerging and we don't want damage,
fires, litter and other hazards effecting
that adversely, so it is important that we
try to clear this mess sooner rather than
later - all or any help you can give would
be much appreciated.
UCKFIELD COLLEGE BUILD UNDER
WAY
The timetable for the construction
of the new Uckfield College has been
announced.
Work started on the site from March
11 with construction of the new
north block. The project is due to be
completed by 2022.
Phase 1 – Construction of the north
block starts March 2019 completing in
August 2020.
Phase 2 – Demolish existing buildings
and construct south block starting
August 2020 and complete October 2021.
Phase 3 – Complete all external areas
including play areas starting October
2021 and all should be completed in
February 2022.
UBCS PRESENT CHEQUES
TOTALLING OVER £4000
Uckfield Bonfire and Carnival Society
held their ‘Presentation Evening’ at
the Belmont Centre on Saturday.
The following organisations received
cheques as follows:
2530 (Uckfield) Squadron, Air Training
Corps £ 400; Uckfield Performance
Ensemble £ 400; Air Ambulance Kent
Surrey Sussex £ 200; Brighter Uckfield
Campaign £ 250; Demelza Hospice
Care for Children £ 150; Macmillan
Cancer Support £ 150; St Wilfrids
Hospice £ 150; Children with Cancer
Fund (Sussex) £ 100; Wildlife Rescue
Ambulance Service £ 150; ESAB
Uckfield £ 100; Framfield Church of
England Primary School £ 100; Holy
Cross School £ 100; Kit Wilson Trust
£100; Luxford Centre £ 100; Uckfield
Food Bank £ 100; Uckfield Hospital
League of Friends £ 100; Uckfield Leos
£ 100; Uckfield Lions £ 100; Uckfield
Theatre Guild £ 100; Wealden Talking
News £ 100; Framfield and Blackboys
Monday Club £ 75; Bevern Trust £
50; Girl Guiding Uckfield District £
50; Harlands Primary School £ 50;
Community Christmas Day Lunch £
100; Manor Primary School £ 50.00
MS Society £ 50; Newtown Action
Group £ 50; PHAB £ 50; Rocks Park
Primary School £ 50; Rotary Club of
Uckfield £ 50; Uckfield Housebound
& Friendship Club £ 75; Uckfield &
District Preservation Society £ 50;
Sussex Horse Rescue Trust £ 50;
SPECIAL DONATION ‐ Give a Duck
(Chemo Ducks) £ 200.
RECORD NUMBER OF PC RECRUITS
Sussex Police has welcomed a further
72 new PC recruits. This latest intake
of officers is largest in a decade.
newsinbrief
9

newsinbrief
more
NEWS
PCSO RECRUITMENT
In March, Sussex Police will be
undergoing a major recruitment drive
to recruit PCSOs, thanks to increased
funding to the precept from the Police
and Crime Commissioner.
Over the next year local policing will
CHAIRMAN AWARDS VICTORIOUS
VOLUNTEERS
On Friday 1 March the Chairman of
Wealden District Council hosted his
annual Civic Reception at Herstmonceux
Castle where he also presented the
Community Volunteer Awards.
Stephen Evans, 17, was winner of the
Young Volunteer of the Year for his
contribution to the Uckfield Volunteer
Centre, offering free one-to-one IT
support and training to the public.
The evening successfully raised over
£3,000 for the Chairman’s nominated
charities.
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL DAY FOR
CHAILEY REPAIR CAFÉ!!
Chailey Repair Café had another
successful day at their March café, with
more than 100 visitors from 23 different
Sussex and Kent towns and villages. 62
repairs were attempted.
Chailey Repair Café next opens at Chailey
Village Hall 10am – 1pm on Saturday 13
April and then on the second Saturday
of each month. Want to know more?
Contact them at chaileyrc@gmail.com
or find them on Facebook.
be strengthened with 100 new PCSOs
being recruited. By joining as a PCSO,
recruits can expect a career with variety,
challenges, a good starting salary, and a
qualification in community policing.
For more details visit the Sussex Police
recruitment pages.
BE A BIG SWITCH WINNER
Wealden District Council’s award
winning Big Wealden Switch is open
again to save you money on your
energy bills. This year all those who
register will be entered into a free
draw with a cash prize of £500.
By taking part in The Big Wealden
Switch collective buying scheme,
you could save around £200- £300 a
year on your electricity and gas bills.
You now have the opportunity to
take part in this year’s scheme.
Those that register after 27 March
will be taking part in the May
auction. To be included in the £500
prize draw, you must be registered
by midnight on 20 May. Everyone
who registers will be asked to tell
a friend about the Big Wealden
Switch.
When you register for the Big
Wealden Switch online, you will
need a recent household energy bill
to provide details of your current
usage. To find out more go to www.
wealden.gov.uk/thebigswitch
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familymatters
EASTER EVENTS
FUN, EGGS AND BUNNIES
by Zoe Holland
With the arrival of the month of April we also welcome two weeks of school
holidays! This time of year there are so many family events and activities going
on..bonnet parades, egg hunts, treasure trails..the choice can almost seem
overwhelming. Never fear...I’ve put together some of the best local events over
the Easter break right here so you don’t have to miss any of the fun. Just don’t
forget to bring something to collect your eggs in!
BEDGEBURY PINETUM
Join the quest to find the chocolate tree
in the heart of the National Pinetum.
Once you have the clues you can return
to the classroom at the visitor centre to
attempt to crack the code. £1 per child.
No need to book. The code quest runs
from 10am - 3pm between 16-18 April.
FUNABOUNDS
Uckfield’s finest trampoline centre is
running an Easter egg hunt and bounce
on the 20 April. The event includes
30 mins of easter egg hunt, obstacle
courses and games PLUS 30 mins of
trampoline and foam pit fun!
£5 per child for the hour booking
1414

essential. Suitable for any age but under
5s must be supervised by an adult.
THE EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL HOTEL
On Sunday 21 April between 12-3pm
guests are invited to explore the
gardens whilst following clues to find
some special chocolate treats! Family
afternoon teas are available - please
book in advance. Other Easter activities
free to attend.
WILDERNESS WOOD
Wilderness Wood will be hosting a
number of Easter and Spring themed
workshops and events throughout the
whole of the school Easter holidays.
Hosted by Lucy’s Little Forest School
options include Family Den Building,
Adventures of a Gruffalo, Fire craft &
fondue, Family Forest school...as well
as special Easter events over the bank
holiday weekend. Please check the
website for specific details.
the track around the Forest Centre
garden. See if you can work out which
nest belongs to which bird. Plus on
Wednesday 10 April the centre will host
a special Family Environmental Art Day.
The team will be working with artists
from So Sussex to offer a day of art and
making based on the insects and birds
of the Ashdown Forest.
BEWL WATER
Between 8 April - 22 April Eggsplorers
are invited to collect a map from the
Waterfront Cafe and follow the treasure
trail around the play area and woodland
to see if they can spot the Easter
houses! Each house will reveal a letter
to unscramble an Easter word, once
eggsplorers have spelt out the special
word head back to the Waterfront to
redeem an Easter treat from us! Free
to participate! Car parking for Bewl
Water costs just £4 per day. Suitable for
children aged 8 and under.
familymatters
familymatters
KNOCKHATCH
Opening this Easter. A Dragon’s Castle
- three story wooden castle adventure
playground with walkways, bridges,
turrets huge slides from the castle keep
and a huge (animatronic) RED Dragon
guarding it’s treasure!
Plus, between 8-22 April Acting
Moon Events return to Knockhatch
Adventure Park with their new LIVE
show Alice’s Circus Adventures. Several
performances everyday and included in
the admission price at Knockhatch.
ASHDOWN FOREST VISITOR CENTRE
Between 6 - 22 April visitors can
encounter Ashdown Forest Birds and
their nests. This Family Trail follows
DAWSON HART CHARITY EASTER
HUNT
Celebrate Good Friday on 19 April by
joining the annual charity Easter Egg
hunt at Uckfield Rugby Club. There’ll
be face painting, bouncy castle, BBQ
and arts and crafts. 11am -2pm, £4 in
advance or £5 on the day under 1’s free.
RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL
Come along to an Easter Egg Hunt at
Ridgewood Village Hall, Uckfield, on
Saturday, 20 April, from 10am to 4pm.
The family day of fun will include
a bouncy castle, stalls and crafts,
refreshments, and bunny hunts where
each child gets a prize – £3 each.
15

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communitymatters
COULD YOU BE A
PARK RUN VOLUNTEER?
by Zoe McGarry
With spring beckoning, the Volunteer Centre has
plenty of ‘outside’ opportunities for you to get
involved in such as gardening, conservation, being
an event steward or working with wildlife. If you
enjoy sport and like being outdoors volunteers are needed to help organise a
local weekly running event.
Parkrun is a national initiative to
encourage people of all abilities to
get active in pleasant surroundings.
To ensure the events take place
volunteers are required to help with the
organisation. The first Uckfield run will
soon take place. Uckfield Runners are
co-ordinating efforts to establish the
Parkrun locally.
The run will start at Uckfield Rugby
Club, continue around Buxted Park and
finish back at the Club.
A team of volunteers are required in a
range of roles. These include: recording
participants, marshaling, timing and
recording results as well as organising
the finish funnel. Training will be
provided and there will be a roster
system where volunteers can say which
days they are available.
If you are interested in helping please
visit uckfieldvolunteer.org.uk for more
information. Or you can phone us on
01825 760019 or pop in and see us at 79
High Street.
ROTARY PRESIDENT'S
CHOSEN CHARITY
In common with many organisations the President of the
Uckfield Rotary Club has the opportunity to nominate a
charity to be supported during his period of office.
This year’s President, Martin Doyle,
has chosen the charity Amaze. It is a
remarkable Sussex based local charity
helping families of children and young
people with special educational needs
and disabilities.
It pursues a vision of a world where
families with children and young
people with special educational needs
and disabilities are valued, included
in their community and supported to
thrive and it seeks to achieve this by
providing information to parent carers
by Howard Dingwall
and supporting
them and their
children by
building resilience
and achieving positive outcomes.
The charity has made a significant
difference to many families since it was
founded 20 years ago.
The Club will be holding a Ball on 4th
May to raise further funds. It's open
to everyone, and you can find details
on the Uckfield Rotary Club Facebook
page.
18

Volunteers have been extremely active over the past month,
and found time to help the Lime Aid group with removing
sucker branches from the trees in Lime Tree Avenue. These
need to be removed each year as they will otherwise starve
the tree of goodness at the highest level.
The steps and footpath between New
Place and Selby Rise have been cleared
of leaves and dirt to make it safer.
Computer equipment was removed from
the ditch behind Waitrose car park. We
thought the owners had concluded that
this is what is meant by 'streaming'!
We have one volunteer who has
'adopted' the railway station area as his
special interest for keeping litter-free.
Say 'hello' to Ian if you see him at work.
And we received a generous donation
from the Carnival and Bonfire Society
- it's great to have
this support.
And now a call to arms ... or rather
spade, fork and trowels. The Brighter
Uckfield Annual Garden Competition
is spruced up and ready to go, so we
hope that you are busy preparing your
entries. Every participant will be invited
to a presentation morning at the Civic
Centre on 20 July when winners will
receive a trophy to keep for a year. More
details and entry form to follow - watch
this space!
communitymatters
START THE SPRING CLEAN by Ian Smith 19
UCKFIELD LIONS FUN DAY
The Uckfield Lions Big Fun Day and Car Boot on Luxford
Field is being held on Sunday 2 June, and this year the
Scarecrow Competition is back.
The Day will include arena events and
competitions, Jimmy the Jester, Meet
the Sheep, Bouncy Castle, refreshments
and stalls.
The Scarecrow Competition is open to
households, schools and community
groups and shops.
Scarecrows will be displayed around
Uckfield from 1 May - 1 June with final
judgin on the Big Fun Day. More details
and entry forms for the Scarecrow
Competition and booking forms for
stalls and car boots are available at the
Lions Bookshop in Olives Yard or www.
uckfield-lions.org.uk.
This year Uckfield Lions are celebrating
by Graham Russell
50 years of serving
the community.
The Fun Day will
help us raise funds
for the benefit of our community.
We are marking this anniversary by
donating four new benches for Luxford
Field, to replace some that are in poor
condition.
Uckfield Lions are only able to fund
community projects, help local
organisations and deserving individuals
with the support of the good people
of Uckfield and surrounding villages.
Please support our Big Fun Day and
Scarecrow Competition.
19

communitymatters
ANYONE FOR TABLE TENNIS?
by Jeremy Hallett
One of the original supporters of Active Uckfield’s Sport for
All Days, is Uckfield's own Table Tennis club at Ridgewood.
They are offering a 'have a go' day on Sunday 28 April - why
not come along and try?
WHAT SPORT IS BEING OFFERED?
Table Tennis - for people of all ages and
levels of fitness. And for people of all
abilities!
WHERE?
Ridgewood Village Hall off New Road. A
welcoming club with the members that
Active Uckfield work with - Nigel Dyer,
and John Gothard from Ridgewood Post
Office.
WHEN?
Sunday 28 April between 3 & 5pm.
DO YOU NEED TO BRING
ANYTHING WITH YOU?
Just comfortable clothing and shoes
to move around on - no high heels or
football boots!
CAN YOU COME ON YOUR OWN?
Of course you can - members will play
with anyone who wants an opponent
and they'll help if you don't know the
rules.
If you want a
challenge, then
the club are leaders of Division 2 of the
East Grinstead Table Tennis League and
I am sure some of the members there
will give people a work out if they want
to push themselves.
FINALLY, AN INTERESTING FACT.
Ridgewood Table Tennis come back
to our Active Uckfield Days every
summer, despite the first year seeing
the competition standard table that
they bring having it's surface "bubble
up" in the sun. Since then we've had
rain and strong winds at times, but this
year, when we will be at West Park on 10
August together with Wealden District
Council, we hope that we will again
have the weather to allow picnics and
great time together.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRY A SPORT
AND OUR SUMMER DAY?
Because this gives a “double whammy”
of finding a way to improve or
maintain fitness and general health
improvements or health maintenance
because you enjoy yourself.
For more information or if you are
involved in running an organisation
that promotes community or physical
activity and want to join our summer
day please feel free to contact me
on 07876 275031 or by email to
jeremyhallett59@gmail.com
20

YOGA
FOR EVERY-BODY
COSY,
COMFORTABLE
& INSPIRING!
For all levels - beginners always welcome
A wide range of classes, including:
Beginners • Pregnancy • Post Natal
Meditation • Men Only • Pilates • Kids
No contracts, no commitments!
Just drop in.
£10 per class
See our website for an up to date timetable:
www.uckfieldyoga.com
81 High Street, Uckfield, TN22 1AS
corderycoach
JGTheatre Club
GREAT DAYS OUT BY COACH
Interesting coach excursions departing
from Uckfield and other local points
APRIL
Wed 4th Caxton Gardens nr Reigate
April
Tues10th Call The Midwife tour at
THURSDAY 11th Chatham Aldsworth House Garden Chichester
Sun 15th Yorkshire Holiday FULLYBOOKED
WEDNESDAY Thur26th 24thMonet The Picture at theof National Dorian Gray, Gallery Richmond
Mon 30th Spring at Isabella Plantation,
TUESDAY 30th Richmond Winkworth Arboretum
MAY
May Thur3rd Birdsong at Churchill Theatre,
Bromley
THURSDAY Tues8th 2ND Private Octopus tour Soup of at Bignor Yvonne Park Arnaud
Wed 23rd 42nd Street at Theatre Royal,
SATURDAY 4th Drury Cross Lane Country FULLYBOOKED
Day at Badminton
HOLIDAYS AND SHORTBREAKS
THURSDAY Sun 13 May 9th Northumbria Royal Windsor Tour,6days,
Horse Show and Pageant
LIMITEDSPACE
FRIDAY Thur7 June 17th Gardens The National of Somerset Flower Show 5 days at Hylands
Sat 1 Sept Switzerland 8 days,
MONDAY 20th Leonardslee Gardens
LIMITEDSPACE
Sun 23 Sept Mid Wales 6 days. LIMITEDSPACE
THURSDAY 30TH St Peter’s Village Tour and Margate
Tues4 Dec ThursfordChristmasSpectacular,
3 days, LIMITEDSPACE
Uckfield pick-upsat Ridgewood, Hooke Hall
and RinglesCross and also at Maresfield
where parking is available
For more informationand details of all our other pick
up pointsplease see our website or contact us at:
JG Theatre Club 01825732211
info@jgtheatreclub.co.uk
www.jgtheatreclub.co.uk
TouringBritain & Europe for over 35 years
Official Coach TravelPartner to SussexCCC
1

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
Each month we take a look at some of the people that make our town tick.
This month it's those people that encourage us to get out,
get involved, and get active.
COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
Laura Scott
Laura has been in guiding 29 years and a leader for 19 years, 17 of those as
Snowy Owl 2 as a Young leader. She is also a Ranger leader and Queen’s Guide
adviser for the Girlguiding Sussex East county.
22

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
Dan Sims
Dan is an Uckfield runner and is rarely not seen running somewhere. Dan has
done 9 marathons and 16 half marathons with 4 more planned for this year. He
also runs couch to 5k classes in Uckfield a couple of times a year.
23

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
David Hall
David chairs the committee of Uckfield's Local Nature Reserves Supporters Group
who meet every 6 weeks. He gives guided nature walks around the reserves of West
Park Local Nature Reserve and Hempstead Meadows Local Nature Reserve.
He is one of the many dedicated volunteers that help with the group.
24

Founded 1947
Want to try lawn bowls (on real grass) or
looking to start again? You can be sure of
a warm welcome.
Come along to one of our practice evenings on any
Tuesday from 16 April onwards at 5.00 p.m. Bowls and
tuition will be provided and all you need are some flat shoes.
Small, friendly club located at the back of
Maresfield Recreation Ground.
Full programme of home and away matches
during the summer.
Internal club competitions.
Practice evenings every Tuesday and Thursday 5 – 7p.m.
Range of social events throughout the year.
for further information contact
PETER BAKER ON 01892 655321

The Civic Centre Uckfield presents...
Following on from their sell-out night last
year, Abba Fever are back to wow you again.
Now in its 20th year, Abba Fever is one of the
most successul touring live Abba productions
in the UK and Europe! A 5-piece band with
5-part harmonies, this show transports you
back to the 70s through their biggest hits.
Saturday 22 June - Tickets £19.50
Bye Bye Baby - Frankie Valli
Also back from
their success last
year, Bye Bye Baby
is more than your
average tribute
band. They deliver
a full theatre show covering the journey
of the Four Seasons from the very
beginning. Oh What a Night!
Sat 28 Sept - Tickets £19.50
Rat Pack Christmas Show
Also featuring
Marilyn Monroe
Tickets £22.50
Sat 16 Nov
Booking Office: 01825 769694
www.civiccentreuckfield.com
Because every life is unique
…we are here to help you make your farewell
as personal and individual as possible,
and to support you in every way we can.
Inc. Cooper & Son and Fuller & Scott
www.cpjfield.co.uk
Cooper & Son 01825 763 763
Fuller & Scott 01825 763 241

Victoria
Pleasure
Ground
Uckfield
urban Tennis for all the tennis
family
• Only £36 per household for all year round play, no other charges
• Online booking system for courts
• Please visit www.urbantennis.org.uk to register
• Benefits include: Free British Tennis Lite Membership, Access to
the Wimbledon ticket ballot discounts at local sports retailers
• Discounts on HEAD tennis equipment
urban tennis
book.play.enjoy
Partnered with Le Tennis – Professional Tennis
Coaching for all ages and abilities.
Contact: info@letennis.co.uk
Visit or website: www.letennis.co.uk
foundation
Please visit www.urbantennis.org.uk to register

My journey:
Living with less
by Nicki Richardson
To do list, organise my paperwork, streamline my house and declutter, use less
plastic.
Anyone else have the exact same to
do list with the planned end result of
saving money, spending more time with
the kids and being a far more relaxed
person?!
A year ago I decided to start a journey to
be more organised and do my bit to save
the planet. I’ve learnt a lot; I’ve made
sacrifices and I’ve made changes which,
on the whole, have benefited, more
than hindered. From a complete packed
lunch rethink, to second hand presents
and changes in habits: We still have a
long way to go but we’ve also come a
long way.
MY 8 YEAR OLD'S INFLUENCE...
Schools are working hard to get the
message across that the damage to the
planet that’s happening right now can
stop if we all help to make a difference.
This got stuck in my 8-year-old’s head,
and she came home demanding that
we sell the car and never buy anything
wrapped in or made of plastic.
Sounds perfect to the idealistic me:
What a huge difference I’d be making
and what an amazing person I would
become but the realist in me said:
“Really? Can it really be that easy?”
28

WELL FIRST THINGS FIRST:
Being a busy mum, worker and having family
in various parts of the country, getting rid of my
car was maybe a step too far. Thinking about
the journeys we’re making, however, was a little
more realistic. Could that quick trip out to grab
that forgotten item be a scoot and chat with the
kids? Or the school drive that could be a walk to
school and bit of fresh air before a busy day at
work/school.
We often have lists, at home and at work that
are must do and nice to do. That’s how I feel
about this. Whilst I’d love to be completely self
sufficient, it’s rather unlikely. And, a bit like
faddy diets, I want to make changes I can stick
to not ones that will last five minutes before I or
my family get fed up and revert back, we’re not
superheroes!
I’m going to look at the small changes I’ve
already made, and the ones I’d like to make and
tell you how I get on, find out if the change is
actually a change for the better or if it’s one that
on the surface looks good when its in fact a false
economy.
The most important thing is the changes I make
need to be realistic, to me, my family and my
pocket! Well, unless anyone can point me in the
direction of a money tree so that I can buy some
chickens, and live like Barbara and Tom from
the Good Life.
Next month I’ll be looking at the some of the
food changes I’ve made and will be checking
with our lovely Zero Waste Maman, Claire
Sumners, to check whether it was a good change,
a sideways step or even a complete bad move.
WHAT ARE YOUR IDEAS?
Got any ideas for my family and I to try?
I’d love to hear them and report back about how
we got on. Email me at
nicki@uckfieldmatters.co.uk
MATTHEW PARTRIDGE
GUTTER CLEARING
Est. in Uckfield and nearby villages
since 1992.
GUTTERS FULL OF
MOSS AND LEAVES?
Get them professionally cleaned to
avoid costly repairs, blockages and
damp problems.
FULLY INSURED
Please contact for a free quote
01825 769078
https://www.facebook.com/pg/mpgutterclearing/
solutions
gnlHelping small Small businesses Businesses & Home home Users users Solve solve IT IT
Do Do You you Need Help need With Technology? help
with technology?
Covering Uckfield and
surrounding areas
Covering Uckkeld and
Surrounding Areas
(10 Mile Radius*)
Supporting Small
Businesses & Home Users
Supporting small
businesses and home
users
. Software/Hardware Problems
• . Virus Software & Spyware and hardware Removal
. Laptop problems Repairs
• . Internet Virus and Security Spyware
. PC removal Upgrades
• . New Laptop Installations repairs
•
•
•
Wired and wireless
networking
Onsite / offsite and
remote Established support 2004
Smart 25+ Years TV, CCTV, Experience Home
•
. Broadband Internet security
Setup
network
• PC upgrades
• Own cloud storage
. Wired & Wireless Networking
• New installations
solutions
. Onsite/Offsite & Remote Support
. Smart TV, CCTV, Home Network
. Own Cloud Storage Solutions
Tel: 01825 768548
* Will travel further but extra costs involved
Mobile: 07764 482118 www.gnlsolutions.co.uk
Apple Android
HAMMONDS GREEN FARM, FRAMFIELD, UCKFIELD, TN22 5QH
Office: Microsoft 01825 768548 Apple Mobile: 07764 Android 482118
www.gnlsolutions.co.uk
HAMMONDS Established GREEN 2004 FARM, - over FRAMFIELD, 25 years UCKFIELD, experience TN22 5QH

Thinking of getting
back into tennis or
wanting to try it for
the first time?
Maresfield
Tennis Club
Take a look at what we have to offer
• All ages and abilities catered for
• First class coaching team on hand - Le Tennis
• 5 excellent, all weather floodlit courts
• Regular tournaments and social events all year
• One of very few touchtennis courts in the
• area to try out this exciting new sport
Brian (chairman)
Tel: 07580 283115
Email: secmltc@gmail.com
www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/
MaresfieldLawnTennisClub

RIDGEWOOD POST OFFICE & STORES
FAMILY-RUN VILLAGE STORE
• An extensive selection of everyday items,
many sourced locally
• Prices that will surprise you!
• National Lottery
• Wide range of Post Office services
OUTREACH POST OFFICES IN:
• Nutley Social Club (Tues.10am-12pm);
• High Hurstwood Village Hall (Tues 2-4pm);
• Isfield in Laughing Fish pub (Thurs 10am–
12pm);
• Chelwood Gate Village Hall (Fri 10am–12pm);
• Danehill Social Club (Fri 1.00-3.30pm)
Shop and Post Office open 7days a week: Mon – Sat 6:30am– 6pm •Sun 6:45am-Noon
RIDGEWOOD POST OFFICE & STORES LEWES ROAD, RIDGEWOOD
01825763825•RIDGEWOODPO@HOTMAIL.CO.UK
WWW.RIDGEWOODPOSTOFFICEANDSTORES.CO.UK
RICHARD GREEN FUNERAL SERVICE
2019 - our 20th year as your independent Funeral Director
Funerals, like birds,
come in all shapes
and sizes, and can be
full of colour
and song.
170 High Street, Lewes
BN7 1YE
01273 488121 (24hrs)
lewes@rgreenfs.co.uk
125 High Street, Uckfield
TN22 1RN
01825 760601 (24hrs)
uckfield@rgreenfs.co.uk

TAKE A TRIP TO
EASTBOURNE THEATRES
Calendar Girls Musical
6 – 10 August I Congress Theatre
Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s Heart-warming Musical
A Song at Twilight,
by Noel Coward
Devonshire Park
Theatre
1 – 6 April
The Comedy About a
Bank Robbery
Congress Theatre
16 – 20 April
Dinosaur World Live
Congress Theatre
26 – 28 April
Jasper Carrott’s
Stand Up and Rock
Congress Theatre
EXTRA DATE ADDED
11 May
Dirty Dancing
Congress Theatre
15 – 20 July
Annie
Congress Theatre
13 – 17 August
An Audience with
Harry Redknapp
Congress Theatre
12 September
An Audience with
Simon Reeve
Congress Theatre
9 November
Eastbourne Theatres, Always Entertaining!
Visit the website for much, much more!
Box Office 01323 412000 | eastbournetheatres.co.uk |
@EBTheatres

communitymatters
activematters
WALK, RUN, DANCE?
How do you stay Active in Uckfield?
Although we are only a small town Uckfield has so many things to offer in so
many areas. This month it’s all about being active, sporty even.
Whatever your level or ability, when
it comes to getting active we are so
incredibly lucky in we have everything
from ‘I haven’t done any kind of sports
since I was at school’ to “I’m ready to
run a marathon or play in the FA Cup
opportunities available”.
Whether you’re looking to start a hobby
or journey, getting back into a sport or
you’ve moved to the area and want to
pick up where you left there really is
something for everyone.
Gentle walks, rambles and, in May,
‘Couch to 5k’ classes will be again
coming to Uckfield, while for the
more experienced, Uckfield Runners
are entering 5k, 10k, half and full
marathons all over the country as well
as doing their weekly club runs.
There’s walking football at Uckfield
Leisure Centre, right up to Uckfield AFC
who have recently played in the FA Cup
Vase.
There’s soft gentle classes to full on boot
camps; Hire the local tennis courts to
play with friends right up to one - one
tennis coaching. We’ve got several bowls
clubs - inside and out.
34 34

145 bpm is known to elevate your mood
and so Nick, our in- house DJ compiles
uplifting playlists and mixes the music
for the classes to provide a unique
exercise experience.
“We have a number of regular clients
now and it is brilliant to share the
fruits of our week together, as well as
keeping fit. People who danced when
they were younger have tried the class
and wondered why they ever stopped
and the classes are open to all ages and
abilities, so everyone is welcome! So far
the age of our clients had been 21-83! So
we are fully inclusive!
We have an abundance of gyms that
cover a multitude of lifestyles - 24 hours,
family friendly, specialising in weights,
fully trained personal trainers on hand.
You name it, Uckfield has it.
And, if you danced when young, why
not try and get fit with dance? Michelle
Clark runs new adult Dance Fit sessions
on Monday evenings at EDDA studios in
central Uckfield from 8.45pm, and on
Wednesday’s at Horsted Health Club,
East Sussex National from 7.30pm.
Michelle says: “The NHS website
recommends dance for fitness ,and our
classes provide you with the opportunity
to do just this ‘on your doorstep’ with
both a central Uckfield and a Health
Club location, and both in purpose built
dance studios. Listening to music above
"My brother, Nick Clark, and I began
connecting with people in Sussex and
Kent who were in a similar position and
discovered lots of people looking for a
new purpose in their lives and wanting
to connect with people in their local
community. The main aims for the
classes were therefore to give people the
opportunity to exercise, have a giggle
and enjoy sharing time together on a
weekly basis."
Active isn’t just about sport though, it
might be about becoming active in your
community -You could adopt an area
in the town and keep it kept and tidy,
volunteer with on of the many clubs and
associations in the town or even take
a hand in politics with May being the
local and District elections.
So whatever you’re looking to do, theres
a club, group, person to help you along
the way. What will your new ACTIV-ity
be?

GOOD FRIDAY
CHARITY EASTER EGG HUNT!
£4 in advance/£5 on the day
Parents & Under 1’s FREE
Tickets available from The Old Grammar School,
Church Street, Uckfield, TN22 1BH
01825 762281
Please note that the Easter Egg Hunt takes place outside so
you may need your wellies!
@dawsonhartuckfield
SPONSORED BY
@DawsonHart_sol
Dawson Hart
All proceeds go the charity. Registered Charity No: 280276

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING WARNED
REDUNDANCIES ARE A FACT OF LIFE
There are many types of However, any potential
sporting injuries – but do
defendant could rely upon
Redundancies are a fact of life nowadays and is one of the statutory reasons for an
you really expect to be
the element of risk always
employee to be fairly dismissed injured from when their employment. you are simply The other associated fair reasons with spectating are conduct, a
capability, statutory illegality, and spectating?
a category called ‘Some Other sporting Substantial event. Reason’. It could also
Ms. Remande was a spectator be argued that Ms. Remande
at For the a Ryder redundancy Cup and dismissal was
submitted may not have grievances been fully
and
hit to in be the lawful, eye, leading there must to loss
might concentrating be regarded at the as time of
of be sight. a genuine As the redundancy
headlines troublesome play - particularly might given find the
celebrated situation. Europe’s The employer’s victory themselves video evidence in a showing redundancy that
over
business
the USA,
must
they
be:
also
pool ‘fore’ of was one, shouted or possibly several two
• Ceasing or intending in order that the process
suggested that Ms. Remande times. Equally, there is a
Jacqueline Hardaway
to cease to carry on looks more legitimate. All
will be seeking compensation general rule sporting events
is Managing Director at
the business for the the circumstances in each
for the injury sustained. that spectators acknowledge
Dawson Hart
purposes of which redundancy the general risks
dismissal involved
must
in
But, is the this employee possible? was be looked at carefully to
attending sporting events.
For Ms. employed Remande by to it;
determine whether the
• Ceasing or intending employer Although there has acted could fairly. be
successfully receive to many issues to this matter,
compensation cease to for carry her on injuries,
that
business in the place
Ms. Remande’s
Most chances
employers want to of
she must show that either the
act
where the employee
success
fairly could
and all
lawfully come down
owner of the course and/or the
towards
so employed; or
to whether
their she was
employees reasonably
and ROBIN WILLLIAMS golfer was negligent. They
may
SOLICITOR/CONSULTANT • Having a reduced resort
warned
to
of
labelling
the risks.
both owe a duty of care to her
a dismissal
as she requirement was a spectator for at a as For a further ‘redundancy’ information so the of
ticketed employees sporting event to carry and out employee sporting injuries does not or other have
work of a particular kind to face, eg, a disciplinary
this duty affords reasonable issues arising from personal
or to do so the place procedure. It is important for
protection for spectators. Such injury claims, please contact
where the employee employers and employees
protection could be in the form our Personal Injury team on
was employed to work. to always take proper legal
of shouting ‘fore’, erecting
01825 762281 or
Occasionally, advice to avoid any pitfalls or
signs alerting spectators employers of
might dress up a potential personalinjury@dawson-hart.
tribunal claims.
the potential risks and different also co.uk
type of dismissal as a
You can contact
following health and safety
redundancy. For example,
Robin Williams on
regulations.
an employee who has
01825 762281
MON-THURS: 8AM-6PM (5PM FRI) FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH: 9AM-12PM
Tel: 01825 762281
www.dawson-hart.co.uk

communitymatters
wellbeingmatters
Walking back to
HEALTH
by Michelle Pearce
This month Michelle
explores the art of
taking one step at a
time.
Walking is described
as ‘the perfect
exercise’ on the
NHS Walking for
Health website. It
cites healthy bodies,
healthy minds,
meeting new people
and preventing
illness as just some
of its benefits, and
what’s more walking
is exactly what our
amazing bodies are
designed to do.
In this digital age, the reality
is that most of us do not walk
enough. Many adults and
children in the UK spend
more than seven hours a day
sitting or lying down - and
no, this doesn’t include our
all-important time asleep.
Local osteopath Michael
Pearce believes passionately
that our bodies are built for
walking. When we walk our
feet roll from heel to toe, part
38 38

of a chain of elastic recoil throughout the
body, designed to propel us along over
considerable distances without tiring.
Furthermore, the rhythmic muscular
contractions of walking, including that
of the diaphragm, are key players in
our circulatory system. “Movement is
life,” Michael says, “and walking helps
create not only a healthy body and
mind, but also provides
an environmentally
friendly way to explore
our world.”
There is plenty of recent
research highlighting
the positive impact of
regular walking on our
mental health. Popular
blogger and writer
Emma Mitchell walks
in nature to manage
her depression. “I know
that if I do force myself
to get up from the sofa,
then the gloom can lift a
little…. For me taking a
daily walk among plants
and trees is as medicinal
as any talking cure or
pharmaceutical.”
Kath, a walker with
bipolar disorder, agrees
- "Walking has always
been there for me, my
confidence has grown immensely. I'm a
totally different person now than I was
ten years ago and I owe so much of that
to walking."
So if you fancy stepping out this spring,
you will find that Uckfield is perfectly
placed for walking. There are several
walks around our urban green spaces on
the Uckfield Town Council website.
If you feel inspired to venture further
afield, East Sussex Council has 35
walks on its site, and Wealden district
council has a further 20 walks which
pass through every parish in the area’s
historic landscape.
There are lots of walking groups in the
area as well. The Ashdown Forest Health
walks meet every Wednesday, or you
could even volunteer as a walk leader on
the NHS Walking for Health project.
Want to walk more?
Why not try...
Local walks - see
Uckfield Town
Council's website
Forest walks in
Ashdown Forest
OS Explorer Map 135
covers Uckfield - try
doing something
totally different
Better still get your
hands on a good oldfashioned
map - the
OS Explorer map
135 covers Uckfield
and its surrounding
countryside and has
public footpaths and
rights of way clearly
marked to help you
create your own
walks.
Walking can be hard,
and initially you
may feel like you are
dragging yourself
along. However, if
you persevere you
may soon experience
the elastic recoil
Osteopath Michael
spoke of, and be on
the path to greater
physical and mental
wellbeing.
Final thoughts from 19th century Danish
philosopher, poet and theologian Soren
Kierkegaard -
“Every day I walk myself into a state of
wellbeing and walk away from every
illness; I have walked myself into my
best thoughts, and I know of no thought
so burdensome that one cannot walk
away from it.”
wellbeingmatters
39

Understanding
your long term
care options.
Searching for the best care in the right setting or at home for a loved one is a huge responsibility. Costs varying
depending on the type of care required, so the process can feel overwhelming. With the average annual cost
of residential care or home care continuing to increase, selling property to meet care costs looms large for many.
Given the choice, no one would opt to see all their hard-earned assets, depleted by care fees. Getting the
right advice at the right time can make all the difference and we are here to help.
Based locally in Uckfield, please contact us for further information.
01825 767 568 | infocranwellws@sjpp.co.uk | 21 Church Street, Uckfield TN22 1BJ
Cranwell Wealth Solutions Ltd represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more
details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/about-st-james-place/our-business/our-products-and-services.
www.cranwellws.co.uk
Investment Planning | Retirement Planning | Inheritance Tax Planning

THE
UCKFIELDVOICE
APRIL 2019 EDITION 196
thevoice
DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
BY HOLLY GORING, TOWN CLERK
In a matter of just a few weeks,
households in Uckfield will be
asked to vote in local elections and
appoint representatives for their
community.
Local elections are taking place for both
Uckfield Town Council and Wealden
District Council. Nominations are
required for the 15 seats on Uckfield
Town Council and five seats for Wealden
District Council in this area.
The role of a councillor
The role of a councillor is to represent
a neighbourhood (ward) and the people
who live within that area. They are an
advocate for local residents, help to
keep residents informed and assist with
resolving any issues or concerns.
Polling Day
Polling day takes place on Thursday 2
May 2019. If you have registered to vote
with the elections department at Wealden
District Council, you will receive a polling
card prior to this day which will tell you
which polling station to visit to vote.
Deadline dates for vote applications
Friday 12 April 2019 is the last day that
the elections team at Wealden District
Council can receive applications to vote
in these elections.
Monday 15 April is the last day that you
can apply for a postal vote.
For more information, visit http://www.
wealden.gov.uk/Wealden/Council/Voting_
and_Elections/
Make your vote count
So please make your vote count, and
make time on 2 May 2019, to vote in
your local elections.
Polling stations
Polling stations will be open from 7.00am
in the morning until 10.00pm at night.
Details of your polling station can be
found on your polling card. If you lose
your polling card or are unsure where
you should go to vote, please contact
Wealden District Council on 01323
443322 for advice.
Election results
The results from the elections will be
announced on Friday 3 May 2019, ready
for the start of a new municipal year.
WHAT’S INSIDE
• Calendar competition
• Annual Town Meeting
• Last month in your council
Contact us through:
admin@uckfieldtc.gov.uk
@uckfieldtowncouncil
37 41

thevoice
38 42 42

thevoice
THE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
This meeting will be held in the Ashdown Room
Civic Centre, Uckfield
on
TUESDAY 9 APRIL 2019
at
7.00pm
This is a meeting for residents of Uckfield
to ask questions of the Town Mayor
and the Chairmen of the Council Committees
If you have any questions it would be helpful if
you could let the Town Clerk know in advance
at
Uckfield Town Council
Civic Centre, Uckfield TN22 1AE
or
Email: townclerk@uckfieldtc.gov.uk
Please join me and the other Councillors
for coffee from 6.30pm
Councillor Spike Mayhew
Town Mayor
39 43

thevoice
38 40 44 44
LAST MONTH IN YOUR COUNCIL
Starting a refill campaign in
Uckfield
Members of Full Council have agreed to
install a water fountain in the foyer of the
Civic Centre. This would run off mains
water and provide a clean source of
drinking water for members of the public
to refill their drink bottles. Members of
the public can download an app on their
mobile devices called ‘Refill’ and find
free water sources on the go. Our aim is
that the Town Council can join the Refill
scheme and become a key refill station
in the Uckfield area.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
Full Council agendas and minutes
can be seen at Uckfield Library. If you
MON 1 APRIL – GENERAL PURPOSES
MON 8 APRIL – FULL COUNCIL
TUES 9 APRIL – ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MON 15 APRIL – PLANS
TUES 23 APRIL – ENVIRONMENT AND LEISURE
TUES 7 MAY – PLANS
MON 13 MAY –
ANNUAL STATUTORY (FULL
COUNCIL
MON 20 MAY – GENERAL PURPOSES
TUES 28 MAY – PLANS
The intention of this campaign is to
reduce the use of plastic bottles. It
has been quoted that ‘if just one in ten
British people refilled their water bottles
once a week, we would have 340 million
fewer bottles a year in circulation’ (Refill
campaign).
Considering options for
Ridgewood Village Hall
Members were presented with a report
from the Chair of the Ridgewood Village
Hall Committee who asked for support
in finding funding for the proposed
extension and refurbishment of the
Village Hall.
It is anticipated that to complete the full
extension and refurbishment will cost
in the region of £300k. The Ridgewood
Village Hall Committee have held a
number of fundraising events to raise
money for the works, and have made
contact with key businesses working
in the Uckfield area to assist with the
rebuild.
The Town Clerk has been tasked with
exploring the options available to the
Town Council and to consider whether
it is possible to provide any form of
financial contribution.
wish to ask a question at a meeting,
on items on the agenda, it is advisable
to submit your question
beforehand to allow a full
response to be given at the
meeting.
All questions should be
directed to the Town Clerk -
admin@uckfieldtc.gov.uk
COMING NEXT MONTH
• A new electoral year
• Parkrun
• Sporting Facilities in Uckfield

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45

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U
C
UCKFIELD & DISTRICT
CHAMBER of COMMERCE
photo: Matt Harquail
YOUR ACTIVE CHAMBER!
I don’t know about you but with increasingly busy lives it’s difficult sometimes to be as ‘active’
as we all know we should be! But ‘active’ isn’t just about physical activity, good though that is!
Here at your local Uckfield Chamber of
Commerce, we are a proactive organisation
that is adding value to the fabric of our
town, sometimes directly and often, indirectly
through the various events that we organise
for our members and in some cases, nonmembers
too.
Our April breakfast networking event with
the support of member, Dawson Hart
solicitors, will look at the important aspect
of how smaller and medium sized businesses
can include ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’
(CSR) within the fabric of their activities.
What is CSR and what are the benefits of
being ‘active’? Open to non-members too,
why don’t you come along to the Picture
House restaurant for a fabulous breakfast
and find out!
Our ‘Speed Networking’ event on Weds 1
May at the Civic Centre is certain to see lots
of activity. I can guarantee that you will meet
more businesses, who could be potential
clients or suppliers, in 90 minutes than
perhaps you’ve ever done before! Working
together with other chambers, we are
pleased to host this active networking event
in Uckfield.
And then later in May, we return to the
Civic Centre for our next Members’ meeting
(and this is members only so you’ll have
to join if you want to attend) where our
keynote speaker will address the Gatwick
airport expansion plans. This is an important
topic and one that has an impact upon the
economy of Uckfield and the surrounding
area.
Another type of event that we have run
recently is called ‘lunch and learn’. Again, with
busy lives small business owners sometimes
struggle to make the time to learn new and
often essential business skills. Combining
some basic training with a sandwich lunch
allows our members to address some
knowledge gaps and network with others at
the same time.
For more information on all events that
I’ve mentioned here, and more, please
visit www.uckfieldchamber.co.uk/
events/
Ian Noble
Secretary
07801 250668
secretary@uckfieldchamber.co.uk
47

exblogs
THE RETURN OF THE
JIGSAW?
By Bex Maini
I've recently become a bit addicted to jigsaws. It all started when Priya began
to like them and quickly got good at doing them on her own.
I got ambitious when I spotted a 1000
piece Christmas themed Disney jigsaw
in one of our local charity shops
and ended up loving doing the more
challenging ones myself (with a bit of
help from P).
So I got some more, some new but
most from charity shops. I find it so
therapeutic, similar to the joy found in
colouring books, it gives you something
to think about, pretty colours and
©Bex Maini
a challenge but isn't too taxing and
takes your mind off the daily stresses
of modern life as you concentrate on
fitting the right pieces together.
I predict it could be the next big thing
after colouring in. Jigsaws might be
back in fashion.
Of course, I've had my eye out for bright
colourful ones and found some great
bargains for me and the kids.
48

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communitymatters
artsmatters
familymatters
HOME IS WHERE THE
HEART IS
A letter home from New Zealand
by Tilly Christie
Right now, basking in the late afternoon sunshine in coastal Whatakane,
North Island, New Zealand, I am musing on what it is that gives Uckfield its
distinctive character, given that our permanent focus in this magazine is our
own community and what it does for the residents of the town and its environs.
They say travel broadens the mind...I think it also distils what you miss most
about home.
Having been away from dear old Sussex
for over a month, there are some things
that I miss, and a few that I don't.
Getting the Don't Miss list over with:
cold weather, the nuisance of clocks
going forward and seasonal heating bills
just about nails it. Oh, and Brexit.
What I do miss is the ease and charm of
Uckfield. We are truly well-served with
good supermarkets and a wonderfully
eclectic High Street. I know (and I hope
you do too by now) that I bang the drum
for local arts and artists whenever I can.
We are particularly fortunate to have
a thriving artistic community on our
doorstep, it's beating heart being Bridge
Arts.
There is something for all tastes in
the town, and nearly all family needs
are covered: a great hospital with a
brilliant Out of Hours doctor facility;
good Leisure Centre; rail service to
London far enough down the line to
almost guarantee a seat when you head
for the Big Smoke; a terrific facility
in the Uckfield Picture House and
Restaurant...the list is temptingly long
when you are half a world away. Add a
host of great pubs a short walk or drive
away, plus smashing rambles in our
rather splendid countryside, and you
have a recipe for the Good Life.
Small enough to be friendly, big enough
to offer a variety of shopping and dining
options. No wonder I miss it!
50

UCKFIELD’S PREMIER
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With over 100 interactive exhibits set
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Clean Cut
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usinessmatters
SO YOU WANT TO NETWORK?
by Sue Edwards
Having lived and worked in Uckfield for over 23 years, it’s great to see how
business flourishes here. Many businesses have been here for years, both on
the High Street and the industrial estate – always buzzing with activity.
So, how about networking? No doubt
you already have a good online
presence, however doing business
face-to-face can often work better.
More business owners or their staff are
attending networking nowadays.
To find networking events in your area,
I recommend Eventbrite. It’s one of the
best resources for finding networking,
seminars, workshops. There is quite a
lot going on around the Uckfield area,
and I use it about once a week to see
what’s new. It can be tailored to your
requirements and preferred town.
If you sell mostly to local clients, you
may prefer to network locallly. And if
you reach further afield, it’s good to
network - you never know who you
might meet.
Uckfield hosts excellent networking
opportunities, with the Chamber of
Commerce being the largest with over
200 members.
SO, WHY NETWORK?
• It's a great way to connect with
people you may not otherwise
meet.
• Helps to get your name ‘out there’
• If your business is not 'visible',
networking is a good way to start.
• Gives you the opportunity to meet
business owners in person.
• Meeting with potential clients faceto-face
can be more fruitful than
them visiting your website.
• Meet competitors who offer
services that you don’t and you may
be happy to collaborate with.
• Ask for feedback or advice on
anything, if you need it.
Sometimes networking can be
disappointing and feel like a waste of
time, particularly if not many people
turn up. But, I’ve been to networking
where only four other people
have attended, and it’s still proved
worthwhile. Quality often wins over
quantity. On the other side of the coin,
some meetings I’ve attended are 80 plus.
At these events it’s often hard and timeconsuming
to find the right person to
talk to and if you’re not careful you can
get stuck talking to someone with whom
you have no or little interest at all. I
usually try to politely say ‘it was nice to
meet you…..’ and move on.
So, do more networking as part of your
marketing strategy, whatever the size of
your business. It is worth it!
54

Drop In Adult Street Dance Class
Beginners/General level
Every Monday: 8.45-9:45pm
Studio 1: Elite Dance and Drama
Academy, Bell Walk, Uckfield
£6/£20 for 4
Drop In Adult Dance-Fit Class
Beginners/General level
Every Wednesday: 7.30-8.30pm
Dance Studio: Horsted Health Club,
East Sussex National Hotel
£8/£7 concessions. Free for members
07427 371396
michellelouiseclark@gmail.com
www.happymedance.com
SUPPORTING
LIFE IN UCKFIELD
SINCE 2003
To advertise with us please call Gary
on 01825 890150
or email : sales@uckfieldfm.co.uk
www.uckfieldfm.co.uk

aintrain
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
3 Worthless dog (3)
7 Beat to separate the corn (6)
8 Ran away to marry (6)
9 Crab claw (6)
10 Supplying with weapons (6)
11 Blood-curdling (5-8)
13 Saying something with wry humour
(6-2-5)
18 Gentle walk (6)
19 Sherlock ______ (6)
20 Played at Wimbledon (6)
21 Package (6)
22 Distress call (3)
DOWN
1 Small shellfish (6)
2 Signalling light (6)
3 Devoid of personality (13)
4 Bonds between people (13)
5 Official, decorous (6)
6 ______ and McCartney (6)
11 Perch, squat (3)
12 ___ Wan - TV fashion stylist (3)
14 Discount store (6)
15 Floor, terra firma (6)
16 Mrs. Bill Clinton (6)
17 Hole to poke your shoelaces through
(6)
56
CROSSWORD ANSWERS - PG 66

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monththatwas
WAS
the month that
ROCKS PARK STUDENTS MARK
WORLD BOOK DAY
Children - and teachers - across the Uckfield
area donned the costume of their favouriote
book characters on 7 March to celebrate
World Book Day. Here are just some of the
get ups on display at Rocks Park. Apparently
head teacher Mr Best was dressed as a red
crayon...
© RON HILL © RON HILL
© RON HILL
YOUTH CLUB SET TO REOPEN
© RON HILL
The Youth Club Project Team - the Chamber
of Commerce, East Sussex Youth Services,
Uckfield College, Tesco and Uckfield
Town Council - has secured support and
funding to re-open the Youth Club via the
Uckfield Chamber. It will provide a safe
space for young people to socialise, take
part in activities and hopefully guide future
generations in a positive way.
© RON HILL
GOING GREEK AT ST PHILIPS
Year six children at St. Philip’s Catholic
Primary School Uckfield, swapped maths
and English for haggling and bartering, when
they became Ancient Greeks for the day.
Gods and goddesses rubbed shoulders with
market traders as the children immersed
themselves in life as it would have been 500
years BC
.
58

monththatwas
© RON HILL © RON HILL
ON YER BIKE! AT ROCKS PARK
Pupils from Year 5 at Rocks Park School
Uckfield took on the Wind, Rain and
Sunshine during their cycle training with
East Sussex County Council Bikeability
instructors. Bikeability is based on the
government approved National Standards
for Cycle Training, which teaches trainees the
necessary skills to ride confidently on today's
roads.
RAVE ON – A TRIBUTE TO BUDDY
HOLLY
2019 is the 60th year since losing Buddy
Holly on 3 February 1959. Recently a packed
Weald Hall (over 220) in the Civic Centre
Uckfield were treated to a fabulous show
starring Marc Robinson as Buddy Holly (from
London’s West End) and the Counterfeit
Crickets. He was joined by Darren Page as Roy
Orbison and Mike Nova as Elvis.
© RON HILL
© RON HILL
© RON HILL
FLIPPING MARVELLOUS FUN
Children at St Philip's Catholic Primary
School Uckfield marked Shrove Tuesday with
pancake races on the playground.
© RON HILL
RUGBY CLUB ENTERTAIN AT PANTO
Uckfield Rugby Football Club were proud
to present their first pantomime for many a
long year. Robin Hood and his Merry Men was
billed as ‘a magical Pantomime and it did not
disappoint it even moved from Sherwood
to Ashdown Forest’, starring several local
celebrities and even a giant squirrel!
The Pantomime had much to offer and the
cast and crew had had great fun along the
way. Both performances were very well
attended (over 120 in the afternoon and over
250 for the evening), who saw the show of any
age will have had a memorable experience.
RED NOSES ALL ROUND
Children got into the Red Nose Day spirit all
across Uckfield - many donning something
red or something silly to raise money for good
causes. Here are a motley crew from Rocks
Park in all their red splendour....
59

sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters
SPORT
Uckfield
With David Eggleston:
Tune in to Uckfield FM each Saturday from 2pm to 6pm for David's radio show
MIXED FORTUNES FOR AFC UCKFIELD
TOWN
It has been a
case of mixed
fortunes for AFC
Uckfield Town in
recent weeks in
both league and
cup.
Excellent home
wins over
Broadbridge Heath (6-1) and Lancing
(4-2) were countered by a last-gasp 1-0
defeat at runaway leaders Chichester
City and a 3-1 loss at Peacehaven &
Telscombe, who also defeated Uckfield
2-0 in the semi-final of the Sussex RUR
Charity Cup.
However, Uckfield did win through to
the final of the Peter Bentley Cup after
a fine 3-2 victory in their semi-final
against Horsham YMCA. In the final,
Uckfield will face Saltdean on Bank
Holiday Monday 6 May (kick-off 11.00)
at Hassocks’ ground. It would be hugely
fitting for Uckfield to pick up a trophy
to cap off their outstanding recordbreaking
season.
Before then, Uckfield will hope to
capitalise on a run of home fixtures
during April and finish their league
campaign as strongly as possible.
New supporters will as always be very
welcome.
REMAINING HOME FIXTURES
The Oaks, Eastbourne Road, Uckfield
Southern Combination League Premier
Division:
Sat 6 April v Shoreham
15.00
Sat 13 April v Newhaven
15.00
Mon 22 April v Lingfield
11.00
Sat 27 April v Hassocks
15.00
Admission: Adults £6; Concessions £3;
Children under 16 Free.
Keep up-to-date with fixture
news via the club’s Twitter feed @
AfcUckfieldTown.
60

sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters
UCKFIELD RUGBY CLUB ... CHAMPIONS!
© RON HILL
Congratulations to Uckfield Rugby Club
who have secured the Sussex Division
One championship and promotion to
London 3 South East. They clinched
the title after a tense and closely-fought
34-29 win at their nearest challengers
Crawley last month.
After finishing runners-up for the last
two seasons and agonisingly missing
out in the promotion play-off on both
occasions, Uckfield’s achievement has
been fully deserved.
Well done to all the players and the
Uckfield coaching and support team
who have worked tirelessly all season.
Uckfield will be hoping to add another
trophy to the cabinet. They progressed
into the semi-final of the Sussex Shield
after a thrilling last-gasp 32-31 victory
over East Grinstead in the quarter-final.
SPRING MARATHONS
After pounding the streets in training
in all weathers over the winter months,
it is the time of year when many local
runners start to think about winding
down ahead of the traditional spring
marathons in Brighton and London.
Several members of the Uckfield
Runners club will be taking on the 26.2
mile challenge this spring, including
Dan Sims, Dayle Bryant, Jacky Patching
and Aimee Payne, who will be running
the London Marathon on 28 April.
There will also be a good contingent
from the club for this year’s Brighton
Marathon, which is on 14 April, whilst
other runners will be venturing further
afield in other big city marathons,
including Paris and Rome.
Good luck to the Uckfield Runners
and everyone else from the Uckfield
area who will be taking part in their
marathons this spring.
61

sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters sportsmatters
NEW SEASON
FOR UCKFIELD
ANDERIDA
Preparations for
the forthcoming
season for Uckfield
Anderida cricket
club are well
underway, including
their weekly indoor
nets sessions.
Uckfield will continue their preparation
outdoors with a pre-season friendly
against neighbours Buxted Park on
Saturday 20 April at the Victoria Ground.
Uckfield, who will be looking to improve
on their 7th place finish last summer,
start their campaign in Division Seven
East of the 1st Central Sussex Cricket
League with a visit to Polegate and Stone
Cross on 4 May, before their first home
match against Bells Yew Green’s second
team a week later.
Uckfield Anderida will again be
participating in the All Stars Cricket
programme this summer, aimed at
providing children aged between five
and eight with a fun opportunity to
help them learn the basics of the game
and gain a great first experience of
cricket. All children who sign up for
the programme will receive an exciting
goody-pack.
Weekly sessions at the Victoria Ground
in Uckfield will be held on Saturday
mornings from 18 May. For more
information and to register a place, visit
www.allstarscricket.co.uk.
FURTHER
TRAMPOLINING
SUCCESS
There were more
outstanding
performances
on the national
stage from our
local trampoline
gymnasts who
train at the Sky
High Trampoline
Gymnastic Academy, based at the
Funabounds Centre in Uckfield.
A team from the Sky High Club
represented their schools in the
British Schools Championships held in
Birmingham last month and brought
home an array of medals.
Ryden Temple, representing Uckfield
College, won gold, as did Charlotte
Wainford from Vinehall School. Daniel
Bradford from Lewes Old Grammar
School and Millie Dadswell from
Uckfield College both won silver
medals. And there were bronze medals
for Sam Plummer from East Hoathly
Primary and Heidi Crowther from
Sackwell College.
Many congratulations to all our young
local gymnasts who competed at these
Championships, and well done too to
all of the coaching staff at the Sky High
Academy.
62

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communitymatters
localmatters
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Dates for your diary
Thursday 4 April 7pm
BRIDGE COTTAGE
TALK: SUSSEX PIERS:
DISAPPOINTED BRIDGES
OR PALACES OF
DELIGHT?
Bridge Cottage, High Street,
Uckfield
Dr. Sally White presents
an illustrated history of
the pleasures and perils
of seaside piers in Sussex.
UDPS members £3. Non
members £5. Tickets www.
bridgecottageuckfield.
co.uk or Box Office 01825
760734
Friday 5 April, 2pm (doors
1.30)
“AUDIO-VISUAL TRAVEL”
U3A, Civic Centre, Uckfield
David Brooker’s stunning
photographic presentations
with music have delighted
us on many occasions and
we look forward to this
one.
U3A members free.
Visitors £1 donation.
Saturday
6 April
The Grand
National
Saturday 6 April 7pm.
UCKFIELD HOLY CROSS
CHORAL SOCIETY
PRESENTS "A RUTTER
CELEBRATION"
Holy Cross Church Uckfield
Tickets £10 from Gale &
Woolgar or on the door.
Under 16s free.
Refreshments and raffle.
Thursday 11 April 11am
- 3pm
FREE HEALTH CHECKS
Uckfield Library
One You East Sussex, the
county’s healthy lifestyle
team, are offering a health
check that includes
includes Blood Pressure,
Heart Rate, BMI and
Cholesterol Diabetes
Assessment and Healthy
Eating /Lifestyle advice
based on results.
45 minute appointments.
Book yours at the enquiry
desk in the Library or
email library.enquries@
eastsussex.gov.uk or call
0345 6080196
You need to be aged 40-
74, without pre-existing
heart/kidney conditions
or diabetes and NOT on
blood pressure /cholesterol
medications.
Wednesday 10 April
10.30am - 3pm
FAMILY
ENVIRONMENTAL ART
DAY
Ashdown Forest Visitor
Centre
The Ashdown Forest
Education Team are
working with artists from
So Sussex to offer a day of
art and making based on
the insects and birds of the
Ashdown Forest. Bring a
packed lunch. Hot drinks
provided during the day.
£10 per child. Children
need to be accompanied
by an adult. Suitable for
families with children
over 5 years. All materials
provided. Please book a
place eventbrite.co.uk
Thursday 11 April 7.30pm
THE UCKFIELD
GARDENERS CLUB
MONTHLY MEETING
Luxford Centre, Library
Way
Including a talk by Mark
Dobell on Greenhouse
Growing. All welcome,
non-members £3.
64

Thursday 11 - Saturday 13
April
PETER PAN: A MUSICAL
ADVENTURE
Saturday 20 April 1pm
THE UCKFIELD
GARDENERS’ CLUB
SPRING SHOW
Sunday 28 April 7.30am
UCKFIELD SPRING
TRIATHLON &
DUATHLON
localmatters
Uckfield Community
College
Uckfield Theatre Guild
proudly present Peter Pan
a Musical Adventure
Showtimes to be
confirmed.
Saturday, 13 April 10am-
12pm
MESSY EASTER
Holy Cross Church, Uckfield
IT'S BACK! Our hugely
popular Messy Easter
session - we have a
brilliant selection of
FUN & MESSY crafts and
activities planned as well
as the amazing EGG HUNT
in the Church grounds!
Offered FREE by the
Church with limited spaces
available -email to book
sarahwiddowson@hotmail.
co.uk
Wednesday 17 April 7:30pm
UCKFIELD ASHDOWN
SINGERS' SPRING
CONCERT
Cornerstone Church,
Uckfield
Including Haydn's Mass
in D Minor (Nelson Mass),
contemporary spirituals
and passion-tide music.
Retiring collection in aid
of the Children;'s Respite
Trust.
Luxford Centre, Library
Way
Classes for Daffodils,
Flowers, Decorative,
Domestic, Handicrafts
and Photography etc.
Refreshments, tombola and
plant sale. All welcome.
For information contact
Cathy on 07887 825032 or
bsanger9@aol.com
Sunday, 21 April from
10-11am
EASTER DAY OPEN
DOORS FAMILY SERVICE
Holy Cross Church
Uckfield
Join us for a brilliant,
vibrant and musical
service to celebrate Easter
day - and to make it that
much more colourful we
invite everyone, children
and Adults, to wear Easter
bonnets.
Friday 26 April 6.45pm
ST PETER AND ST JAMES
FASHION SHOWCASE
Belmont Centre, Uckfield
In collaboration with
Buxted WI. Tickets £10
available from St Peter and
St James Simply Fashion
charity shop, Uckfield.
Enquiries to buxtedwi@
gmail.com. All proceeds
to St Peter and St James
Hospice.
Uckfield Leisure Centre
Standard, Sprint and
Supersprint event, pool
swim with individual starts
in a 'snake swim' style. The
lapping cycle course is
on wide main roads with
long stretches to get some
good speed up and and the
lapping run course perfect
for spectators. The early
start means nice clear
roads!
Wednesday 1 May, 10am
U3A COFFEE GET-
TOGETHER
The Picture House
Restaurant
Our U3A provides
learning, leisure and social
opportunities for the
retired and semi-retired
residents of Uckfield and
around, Come and hear
about our activity groups
and chat to members over
coffee. All welcome
Friday 3 May, 2pm (doors
1.30)
U3A TALK
Uckfield Civic Centre,
“Sir Ernest Shackleton”
Michael Smith, a Polar
Exploration author,
will talk to us about
Shackleton’s Antarctic
Expeditions.
U3A members free.
Visitors £1 donation
65

localmatters
Saturday, 11 May from
10am-3pm
SPRING FAIR AT HOLY
CROSS
Holy Cross Church
Come along and enjoy Art
& Craft stalls, activities
and crafts for Children,
Baking Competitions and
Children's Art Competition!
Refreshments, music and
free entry.
Monday 13 May 12.30 for
1pm
LADIES WHO LUNCH-
ANNUAL GENERAL
MEETING
The Alma Arms, Framfield
Road
Advance booking a must.
Rasputin - Angel or Devil is
the subject of our talk. For
information or to book ring
Maureen 01825 765091 or
Carol 01825 762934
Wednesday 23 May 2018 -
1.45pm
UCKFIELD DEMENTIA
FORUM
Luxfords Centre, Library
Way, Uckfield
Useful Information
Afternoon with afternoon
tea provided
WEEKLY
Mondays 1.30-4.30pm
MEMORY MOMENTS
CAFE
The Civic Centre
Join them for an informal
café including tea coffee
and cake and little fun
and laughter with games,
talks, music, dance and
much more - Everyone is
welcome especially those
with memory problems
and family supporters.
01273 493300 or info@
knowdementia.co.uk or
www.knowdementia.co.uk
Tuesdays 7-9pm
UCKFIELD ART GROUP
Luxford Centre
New members welcome to
pop along and see what we
do. Contact Annie Mills on
01825 765021 / 07817039911
or anniemills99@yahoo.
co.uk for details
Tuesdays 8-9pm
UCKFIELD BONFIRE AND
CARNIVAL MEETING
The Civic Centre
Wednesdays 10am-12noon
UCKFIELD BYGONES
AND MEMORIES COFFEE
MORNING
Bridge Cottage
Come along and share your
memories of past times
in Uckfield. Chat to our
volunteers and staff who
always enjoy a good story
about Uckfield. Tea/coffee
£1.50.
Thursdays 7-8pm
HOLY CROSS CHURCH
CHOIR REHEARSAL
Belmont Centre
The Choir would welcome
new members, especially
more men. For further
information please contact
Frances Brett - 01825
371694
Fridays 10-11am
UCKFIELD HEALTHY
WALK EVERY FRIDAY
MORNING
Meet Civic Centre
Free, weekly, one-hour
healthy walks. No need to
book. Lovely walks around
Uckfield. When you arrive
back there is a chance for a
chat and a cuppa.
CROSSWORD ANSWERS - from pg 54
ACROSS: 3; Cur 7; Thresh 8; Elope 9; Pincer 10; Arming 11; Spinechilling
13; Tongueincheek 18; Stroll 19; Holmes 20; Tennis 21; Parcel 22; SOS
DOWN 1; Shrimp 2; Beacon 3; Characterless 4; Relationships 5; Formals 6; Lennon
11; Sit 12; Got 14; Outlet 15; Ground 16; Hilary 17; Eyelet
AGE CONCERN TRANSPORT SERVICE
Age Concern Uckfield and district free transport service to hospitals and doctor surgeries for
the elderly is keen to recruit volunteer drivers to keep up with this ever increasing demand on
our services.
Drivers are paid up to the rate of fifty pence per mile. Should you wish to join our team of
drivers please contact Malcolm on 01825 371146 or Ian on 01825 278325.
TO BOOK OR BECOME A VOLUNTEER DRIVER TELEPHONE 01825 371146 OR 764290
66

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