Hailsham News, November 2025, Issue 51

NOVEMBER 2025 | ISSUE 51
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR HAILSHAM, POLEGATE, HELLINGLY AND SURROUNDING AREAS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: LOCAL NEWS • EVENTS • FEATURES • MOTORING • SPORT
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NOVEMBER 2025 | ISSUE 51
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR HAILSHAM, POLEGATE, HELLINGLY AND SURROUNDING AREAS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: LOCAL NEWS • EVENTS • FEATURES • MOTORING • SPORT
13,500 COPIES DELIVERED DOOR-TO-DOOR
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4 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
WELCOME
THIS newspaper is always pro-
Hailsham, of course we are, there’s
no reason why we shouldn’t be!
But, in this edition, we have to
highlight dramatic increase of empty
shops in the High Street. We’ve
always been proud of the large
number of full shop units and we’ve
always been ahead of other towns in
terms of tenancy figures.
Over the last few months, we seen
food chains disappear, Poundland
announce closure and a number of
small independent shops just simply
close their doors, leaving empty units.
In these times, it’s going to be
difficult to find new business owners
to fill these units or encourage
companies to expand, when
people are continually increasing
their online spend and not in our
town centre shops.
We’re all guilty of it, me included,
but I do always try and make an
effort. If I know what I need to buy
is available on the high street, then
I’ll do that. I think we all need a little
more effort to protect our small local
shop owners, especially as we’re lucky
enough to have free parking, unlike
other nearby towns.
In this issue, we’re announcing an
amazing new local initiative to help
the underprivileged this Christmas.
This is a truly Hailsham project, run by
local people and selected groups. This
is something we can all get involved
in - see page 10 for full details on how
you can do a little bit, but it’ll mean a
lot to someone on Christmas Day.
Paul Gibson, Group Editor
THE TEAM
PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR
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VIKTORIA COWLEY — FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS
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DEAN COOK — PRODUCTION
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taken care to ensure that the information in this
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Town to receive £1.13 million
boost for local infrastructure
HAILSHAM is set to receive a
funding boost of £1.13 million as
part of Wealden District Council’s
latest distribution of Community
Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money.
The CIL is a payment made by
developers when new homes or
buildings are constructed, designed
to ensure that local communities
benefit from development in their
area. The funding can be used to
improve or maintain local facilities,
transport, green spaces, and other
key infrastructure.
In total, around £2 million is being
shared among several towns and
parishes across Wealden, including
Crowborough, Uckfield, Heathfield,
Hellingly, and Westham.
A spokesperson for Hailsham
Town Council confirmed the town’s
substantial allocation, saying:
“We’re due to receive the CIL
amounting to £1.13 million. We’re
25 Years of twinning
celebrated at
special event
THE Hailsham & District Twinning
Association hosted a special
reception on Friday, 24 October,
at the Fleur de Lys Meeting Room
in Market Street, marking the 25th
anniversary of Hailsham’s twinning
with the French town of Gournayen-Bray
in Normandy.
The event welcomed local
dignitaries, including Town Mayor
Cllr Chris Bryant, who co-hosted
the reception alongside fellow town
councillors, members of both the
Hailsham & District and Gournayen-Bray
Twinning Associations,
and Francis Larcheveque,
Gournay-en-Bray’s Municipal
Councillor of Security.
The celebrations continued with
an official anniversary dinner at
the Blackstock Country Estate in
Hellingly, where a vase was presented
to the Town Council for their help in
supporting the Association.
To mark the occasion, the Town
Council displayed the French flag
at the Hailsham War Memorial
throughout the anniversary weekend.
Hailsham’s partnership with
Gournay-en-Bray was formally
established in October 2000, when
the original Twinning Charter was
signed in Hailsham. This was later
renewed in 2011, cementing a bond
that fostered cultural exchange,
friendship and community spirit for a
quarter of a century.
Over the years, the Association has
organised countless group visits,
exchanges and cultural activities
for residents of both towns. These
include sightseeing trips, carnivals,
music and choral festivals, sporting
events and social gatherings.
Members also enjoy a vibrant local
programme of events in Hailsham,
Cllr Chris Bryant, Town Clerk John Harrison
and Cllr Paul Holbrook
such as quizzes, cream teas, picnics
and cycling trips.
Earlier this year, Hailsham Town
Council awarded the Twinning
Association a £1,500 grant as part of its
2025/26 Community Grants Scheme.
The funding helped cover the costs
of the anniversary celebrations
and supported the Association’s
wider programme of cultural and
social activities.
Town Mayor, Cllr Chris Bryant,
said: “The Twinning Association does
an excellent job organising cultural
exchanges between Hailsham and
its twin town in France, Gournay-en-
Bray. This 25th anniversary of the
signing of the twinning charter was a
celebration not only of the enduring
friendship between our towns but
also of the values of cooperation and
mutual respect that bind us together.”
“Twinning is about far more than
official visits — it is about people,
relationships and the opportunities
we create for learning, sharing
and building friendships that span
generations. It was good to meet our
friends from Gournay-en-Bray and
celebrate the many achievements of
this important partnership.”
Membership remains open to
all at £10 per person annually, or
£40 for groups.
currently updating our Strategic
Plan and will decide how the money
will be spent at future Council and
committee meetings.”
Councillor Ian Tysh, Cabinet
Member for Planning and the
Environment at Wealden District
Council, said the scheme ensures
local communities see real benefits
from development.
“This money goes straight back to
our neighbourhoods. CIL ensures
that development benefits the people
already living in our towns and
villages and will provide better and
more improved services and facilities
to residents,” he said.
Hailsham Town Council will
consider investment priorities over
the coming months, with decisions
expected to focus on projects that
deliver long-term benefits for local
residents and support the town’s
continued growth.
Thousands donated
to support children
with complex
disabilities
MEMBERS of Hailsham Rotary Club
presented a cheque for £3,260 to
the Chailey Heritage Foundation
recently, following the success of its
annual charity Golf Day.
The group said they were ‘taken
aback’ by the inspirational work
taking place at the Mid Sussex-based
charity, which supports children and
young people living with complex
disabilities and their families.
Rotarian Rosemary Mullen said: “It
was an absolute delight for a small
group of our members to visit Chailey
Heritage Foundation.
“All of us were taken aback by the
facilities on site. We were particularly
impressed with the Patchwork Farm
and animals, the riding stables and
the indoor swimming pool.
“There were so many different
rooms we visited with various
activities going on. It clearly is an
incredible charity doing incredible
things on a daily basis.”
Yazmyn Ellis, Community and
Events Fundraiser at Chailey Heritage
Foundation, said it was a pleasure
to welcome the group and show
them how the charity operates
on a daily basis.
She said: “We want to say a massive
thank you to Hailsham Rotary
Club for its support over the past
year. We are truly grateful for its
very kind donation.
“We are always keen to welcome
members of the local community and
groups interested in learning more
about Chailey Heritage Foundation.”

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6 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Hundreds line High Street
to say goodbye to Les
HUNDREDS of residents gathered
along Hailsham High Street
recently, (Wednesday, 8 October),
to pay their final respects to one
of the town’s most recognisable
characters, Leslie Cottington
(Les), fondly known as ‘the
wheelbarrow man’.
Les, who was 73, spent his entire life
in Hailsham and was a familiar sight
to many, seen almost daily walking
through the town in his wellies with
his trusty wheelbarrow, which he
used to help with his balance.
Before his funeral at the Wealden
Crematorium, Les made one final
visit through the town centre. Around
200 people lined the High Street,
applauding as the hearse carrying
him passed by in a touching tribute to
a much-loved local figure.
His cousin, Tim Izzard, paid tribute
to him on Facebook, writing: “He
enjoyed playing the organ, listening
to his records of Cathedral Music and
to Radio 4 and Classic FM.
“Les liked to use his typewriter
to write letters. He used to do
what he called his voluntary work,
trimming the grass and bushes on
the Cuckoo Trail. Les was never
married and lived independently for
over 30 years.”
Les’s dedication to his community
and his familiar presence on
Hailsham’s streets made him a true
local legend. His memory will live
on in the hearts of those who knew
and admired him.
Community invited to help
grow woodland legacy
RESIDENTS are being invited
to roll up their sleeves and help
plant the next generation of trees
at Laughton Greenwood’s annual
Community Tree Planting Day on
Sunday, November 30.
The event, held at the 170-acre
community-run woodland between
Ringmer and Hailsham, offers
volunteers the chance to plant native
English species such as oak, hazel
and beech, restoring habitats and
boosting local biodiversity.
Two planting sessions will run
at 10am and 1pm, with children’s
nature crafts and hot soup available
at lunchtime. The organisers say no
experience is needed, and everyone
— including children and dogs — is
welcome to take part.
Steve Lewis, Chair of Laughton
Greenwood said: “Planting trees is
a simple and powerful act. It helps
tackle climate change, creates homes
for wildlife, and ensures future
generations can enjoy these woods.”
Laughton Greenwood is one
of the few community-managed
woodlands in Sussex, cared for
by local volunteers who work
year-round to restore natural
habitats and encourage public
engagement with nature.
The event is free to attend, but
participants are asked to book
in advance via Ticketsource so
organisers can plan ahead.
Visitors should head to Park Lane,
Laughton (BN8 6JH) and bring boots
and a spade if possible.
For more details or to reserve a place,
visit laughtongreenwood.co.uk.
Residents invited to
Remembrance event
THE town will fall silent to
commemorate the fallen at the
annual Remembrance memorial
event in the town centre this month.
The event is jointly organised by
Hailsham Town Council, the Royal
British Legion Hailsham & District
Branch and Hailsham Parish Church.
It’ll honour members of the Armed
Forces who lost their lives in service,
along with civilian casualties from
Britain and the Commonwealth.
The Remembrance Sunday
Morning Service will take place at
Hailsham Parish Church on Sunday,
9 November at 9.30am, led by the
parish clergy.
The Town Mayor will attend
alongside councillors, Armed Forces
representatives, veterans, family
members and local organisations.
The early start will allow time for
attendees to gather at the War
Memorial for the parade and formal
wreath-laying ceremony.
Following the church service,
a parade will assemble in the car
park adjacent to the Charles Hunt
Centre in Vicarage Field, beginning
at 10.35am. The parade will be
led by the Hailsham & District
Standard, followed by veterans,
cadets from the local Army and
Air Cadet units, dignitaries and
other participants.
Those wishing to take part in the
parade are asked to arrive at the
Charles Hunt Centre no later than
10.20am and report to the Parade
Master on arrival.
The parade will proceed to the
Hailsham War Memorial where the
wreath-laying ceremony, Last Post
and two minutes of silence will take
place at 11am. Members of the public
are warmly invited to attend and pay
their respects.
Immediately after the ceremony,
attendees are welcome to return
to Hailsham Parish Church for hot
refreshments, continuing a longstanding
community tradition.
Please note that Hailsham
High Street and Vicarage Lane
will be closed to traffic from
9.30am until 12 noon to ensure
the safety of all participants and
members of the public.
Celebrating
Hailsham’s Heroes
and the businesses
supporting them
HAILSHAM Hero Awards 2025
promise to be another inspiring
celebration of the town’s most
remarkable people, when it takes
place last this month.
These awards recognise individuals
and organisations who make a
real difference in our community,
from outstanding young people
to charitable groups and local
businesses going the extra mile.
A special thank you goes to the
local sponsors who are making this
event possible:
• Viv Samuel — The Royal Indian
— Headline Sponsor, supporting
the event overall and helping to
ensure a memorable evening for
everyone involved
• Hailsham & District Chamber
of Commerce — sponsoring the
Business Contribution Award
• Charles Century Estate Agents —
sponsoring the Charity of the Year
Award and providing promotional
boards for the event
• Yes Promo Products —
sponsoring the Outstanding
Young Person Award
Their generosity means the
awards can properly celebrate the
extraordinary achievements of our
Hailsham heroes and ensure the night
is a highlight for the town.
The Hailsham Hero Awards take
place on Friday 14 November and aim
to shine a spotlight on the everyday
heroes among us — people who
inspire, support, and enrich our
community in countless ways.

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8 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
To write to the editor,
email: letters@hailsham.news
High rents and hard times
— Hailsham businesses
struggle to survive
BY DOMINIQUE AYLING
HAILSHAM High Street lost
yet another business last
month following the closure of
Poundland in the town’s Quintins
Shopping Centre.
The now empty building joins a
growing number of vacant retail and
restaurant units in the High Street
and Vicarage Field.
The decision to close Poundland
comes after the building’s landlord
informed the firm they have other
plans for the location.
President of Hailsham’s Chamber of
Commerce, Sam Beale, told Hailsham
News: “Although Poundland initially
denied the closure, it’s hard to
ignore when a property is being
actively marketed.
“From what I’ve heard, the issue
came down to Poundland and the
landlord being unable to agree on
new lease terms. My concern is that
by holding out for a higher rent,
the landlord may have misjudged
the market. The unit could now
sit empty for a considerable
time, losing any potential gains
almost immediately.”
He added: “Businesses are being hit
from every direction with rising taxes,
higher employment costs, reduced
footfall, competition from online
retailers and out of town outlets,
and even the ongoing challenge of
parking. It’s an incredibly tough
environment for small independents
to survive, let alone thrive.”
Disgruntled Hailsham residents
took to social media to express their
dismay at the loss of another business
when the news about Poundland,
which closed its doors for good on
October 29, was confirmed.
Many expressed views that
landlords are charging rents too high
for businesses to survive.
Sam added: “The Poundland unit,
for example, is being advertised
at £70,000 per annum exclusive,
which is a huge figure for a town of
Hailsham’s size.
“When you factor in business rates
and all the other operating costs,
it becomes an almost impossible
equation for most local traders.
I do think landlords need to be
more conservative in their asking
prices if they want sustainability
with long-term tenants and a
healthy high street.”
In comparison, Mira restaurant,
which opened in April but closed just
three months later, is being marketed
at £27,500 per annum. The former
Romeo & Juliet premises, which is
soon to be an Indian restaurant, was
marketed at £60,000 leasehold. The
building which housed Ribs & Co,
and later The Spot, is on the market
for £380,000 freehold and has been
vacant since January 2024.
The Old School House in North
Street is open to offers in the
region of £425,000 freehold and
has stood empty since Prezzo’s
closure in April 2023.
Sam told Hailsham News: “It’s sad,
but Hailsham isn’t alone. Many towns
across Sussex are facing similar
challenges. Not long ago, Hailsham
had one of the highest occupancy
rates in the county, but that’s changed
quickly. It’s a reminder of how fragile
local economies can be.
“I’d love to see more quality eateries
and a couple of good bars to help
bring life to the evenings. A vibrant
social offering helps encourage
people to stay in town longer and
support other local businesses.”
Hailsham’s Chamber of Commerce
is currently in the process of securing
funding to install creative window
coverings on empty units to help
improve the look and ambience of
the High Street.
It’s also discussing initiatives to
help promote local businesses and
increase footfall.
Hailsham News approached a
spokesperson for Wealden District
Council who told us: “Wealden
own a significant number of shops
within the town centre, including
the whole of Vicarage Field and
others on the High Street. Of all our
retail properties, we currently only
have one vacant unit, which we are
working hard to fill.
“Throughout the pandemic,
Hailsham, like many of our market
towns bucked the national trend at
keeping vacancy rates much lower
than other places.
“However, conditions for
retailers are difficult at the moment
and we are aware that other landlords
are holding more vacancies in the
town. We are working with the
Chamber of Commerce and other
local organisations to attract and retain
more businesses to the town centre.”
A spokesperson from Molyneux
Rose LLP, the firm marketing the
former Poundland premises and
representing the Quintins Shopping
Centre, said: “Despite efforts, the
landlord was unable to get Poundland
to stick to the original terms of a
lease renewal as agreed with them
several months ago.
“This is despite the money that
the landlord has recently spent on a
full refurbishment of the shopping
centre, which included external and
internal decoration, new lighting
and signage, rebranding and a stateof-the-art
website, all of which will
benefit the occupational retailers and
shoppers alike.
“Rest assured, the landlords remain
totally committed to Hailsham and
have already instructed my firm and
a local agent to help identify a quality
tenant that will be favourable in terms
of tenant mix.”
“The unit offers approximately
4000 square feet of sales area on the
ground floor, with 3,500 square feet of
storage area on the first floor, which
could be suitable for another discount
retailer or a variety of other uses.
“There is also the prospect of
splitting the store into smaller shop
units to attract more independent or
national retailers.”

10 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Amy’s mural brings veterans’
stories to life at Polegate RBL
A striking new mural honouring
local veterans has been unveiled
at the Royal British Legion Club in
Polegate, the result of months of
dedication by club member and
artist, Amy, who spent nearly 200
hours creating the work.
Amy joined the Polegate RBL
around seven years ago and soon
became active on both the Club and
Branch Committees. Inspired by the
stories she heard from veterans, she
sought permission to create a mural
reflecting their personal experiences
and the club’s proud history.
The mural, which now adorns
the club’s main back wall, features
scenes including Royal Marines in the
Falklands, a Royal Navy battleship,
members of the Parachute Regiment,
RAF aircraft in flight and trench
warfare from the Great War.
A smaller section, kept top secret
until the unveiling, was revealed to
show two former servicemen, both
veterans of the Parachute Regiment
and Military Police, to the delight of
members and guests.
Amy signed her work with a
simple, heartfelt dedication: “For the
members, past, present and future.”
The Gifting Tree launched to
support locals this Christmas
LOCAL people in need will be
supported this festive season
through a new initiative called ‘The
Gifting Tree’, which is a community
project based at the 847 Taxi Office
on George Street in Hailsham.
The scheme, which launches on
Monday 10th November, invites
residents to choose a gift tag from the
Christmas tree, each representing
someone in the local area who could
use a little extra help this Christmas.
Partner organisations including
Hailsham Active, The Railway
Club, Hailsham Food Bank and the
Hailsham Youth Service will be
placing tags on the tree, identifying
individuals and families they’ve
selected who would benefit from a
thoughtful gesture.
Taking part is simple: visit the taxi
office, select a tag, buy the requested
gift and return it to the same location.
The team at 847 Taxis will then
ensure each present is passed to the
right organisation and delivered in
time for Christmas.
Organisers are asking residents
to either fulfil their chosen tag
or return it promptly to ensure
nobody is left out.
It’s the brainchild of local taxi
driver, Barry Carpenter. He said:
“The Gifting Tree is a wonderful
example of local kindness. Every
small act makes a big difference, you
really can help make someone smile
on Christmas Day.”
For more information or to get
involved, or, anyone who is aware
of someone in need who isn’t
connected to these organisations
can also request support by emailing
info@847847taxis.com.
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Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 11
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12 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
‘We must fight for our High
Streets and the people who work
in them’ — MP Nusrat Ghani
BY PAUL GIBSON
AS empty shopfronts multiply along
Hailsham High Street and traders
brace for another difficult winter,
Sussex Weald MP Nusrat Ghani
says the challenges facing local
shops are part of a wider storm of
rising costs, changing habits and
organised retail crime — but insists
there is still plenty to be proud of
and to fight for.
Sitting down with Hailsham News
in her Westminster Office, Ms
Ghani, who is also Chairman of Ways
and Means and the senior Deputy
Speaker of the House of Commons,
spoke candidly about the pressures
on local businesses, the scourge of
shoplifting and the need to support
community spirit as the town adapts
to modern retail life.
THE SHIFTING FACE OF
THE HIGH STREET
Asked about the rising number
of empty shops, Ms Ghani says
she understands why people
feel disheartened, but stresses
that Hailsham still has strengths
worth building on.
“Crowborough is closest to me
and I always find Hailsham more
vibrant, so I think it’s lovely,” she
says. “There’s a nice mix of shops, but
the way people shop has changed. I
won’t be the only mum who works all
day and ends up buying things online
when I shouldn’t.”
She points to the combination of
online shopping, rising business
rates and the cost of employing
staff as a ‘toxic trio’ squeezing
independent traders.
She told me: “When you look at
business rates, national insurance
and paying the national minimum
wage, the costs for small businesses
are really tough. Many are wearing
their hearts on their sleeves, spending
everything they’ve got just to keep
the doors open.”
While the decline in footfall is
partly about convenience, Ms Ghani
believes the answer lies not in
competing with big retailers, but in
making town centres distinctive and
social places again.
“We need a different kind of offer,
something that makes my teenager
want to come into town and spend
time there. Community events
make a big difference, the Hailsham
Festival, the Bonfire Society,
markets and cultural events. These
bring people in and help the other
shops benefit too.”
But she admits there’s a need
for quicker local responses when
things go wrong.
“When disruption happens,
roadworks, or utility works, the
council needs to lean in fast and
minimise the impact. Anything that
deters people from visiting town
makes things worse.”
Her message to local authorities
is clear: keep costs down, promote
activity and protect traders.
“If we don’t, people will just think it’s
not worth it and go to a neighbouring
bigger town and that would
make things worse.”
THE HIGH COST
OF SURVIVAL
Reflecting on conversations with
local business owners, Ms Ghani says
many are struggling simply because
of uncertainty.
“When we had the Budget, things
changed overnight and suddenly
small shops were facing costs they
hadn’t prepared for. People just want
stability. They don’t want surprises
that mean they have to let staff go.”
She says the government needs to
look again at business rates — a longstanding
issue that hits high street
traders harder than online giants.
“Unless we properly reform
business rates, we can’t expect these
small independent businesses to
carry on absorbing more and more
costs. We can’t assume they have
reserves. They don’t.”
SHOPLIFTING: “IT’S
ORGANISED CRIME AND
IT’S DISGUSTING”
As if rising costs weren’t enough,
retailers are also facing a sharp
increase in shoplifting, an issue being
widely discussed across Sussex.
Nusrat Ghani MP
Ms Ghani is blunt about the scale
of the problem: “It’s awful. I’ve got
shops in Crowborough, Wadhurst,
Heathfield, Hailsham and even
the smaller villages where they’re
seeing repeat offenders. Sometimes
these things are stolen to order,
this is organised crime, not people
stealing food to eat. It’s disgusting and
it’s got to stop.”
She says she has been working
closely with Sussex Police and Crime
Commissioner Katy Bourne, who
recently announced that serial
shoplifters will be electronically
tagged, to help prevent reoffending.
“I know Katy has been putting
in more resources, and I’ve been
pushing both her and ministers
to make sure offenders are
properly identified, arrested
and criminalised.”
For smaller businesses that
can’t afford security staff,
she acknowledges the toll it
takes on morale.
“It’s another cost they just can’t
carry. My sympathy is entirely with
the shop workers who have to face
this, they live locally, they serve their
neighbours, and they shouldn’t have
to bump into these criminals after
reporting them. It makes them feel
deeply insecure. We’ve got to nip
it in the bud.”
KNIFE CRIME SHOULD
BE TACKLED
Turning to the issue of knife crime,
Ms Ghani expresses sympathy for the
family behind Charlie’s Promise, the
Sussex charity founded after 17-yearold
Martin Cosser was killed in West
Sussex two years ago.
She said: “Any knife crime is awful
and it has a dreadful impact on
families and communities. We are
lucky that our constituency has very
low levels of violent knife incidents
and I want it to stay that way.”
But she warns that complacency
would be a mistake.
“When it does happen, it’s a shock
because we’re not used to it here.
But as more knife crime is reported
across the country, we’re seeing
perpetrators and victims who are
younger and younger and that’s
something we need to talk about.”
She praises the courage of
campaigners who use their personal
loss to warn others: “It’s remarkable
that people who’ve suffered such
tragedy still have the emotional
resilience to go into schools and talk
about their experience. We’re so lucky
to have people like that across Sussex.”
FINDING REASONS
FOR OPTIMISM
After a sobering discussion about
business struggles, crime and social
challenges, Nus is keen to end on a
more positive note.
“I know people are anxious about
the town centre, but I just think it’s
very pretty. There are lots of shops,
yes, we’d love a bit more choice, but
the people are wonderful.”
She points to the run-up to
Christmas as a time to focus on
community and local pride. She
added: “We’ve got good schools, good
businesses, very low levels of crime
and fantastic community spirit. I
just love coming back home after
London, it’s calmer, more peaceful,
with friendly people.”
She concluded: “We must support
local businesses because they’re the
local job creators at the end of the
day. And I’ll keep working with the
Police and Crime Commissioner
and everyone involved to tackle
shoplifting and lower-level crime as
much as we can.”

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 ADVERTORIAL 13
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14 NEWS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Hailsham Bonfire
Society delivers
best event yet to
celebrate 20 years
THOUSANDS took to the streets of
Hailsham on 18 October to mark
a landmark anniversary of the
Bonfire Society, which has been
hailed as the ‘best yet’.
Hundreds of people from bonfire
groups from around Sussex took
part in the procession prior to an
incredible fireworks finale at the
Western Road Recreation Ground.
This year marked the 20th
Anniversary of the society since it
returned after a break in 2005.
The group said visitors could
expect the best show yet and that was
certainly achieved by the volunteers
who work all year to raise funds and
ensure the events take place.
Residents are being urged to donate
what they can, as it’s only down to
donations and support from local
businesses that pays the £13,000 costs
to host the evening.
Our photographer has uploaded
almost 200 images from the evening
which can be purchased and
downloaded online. All proceeds
will be donated to the Hailsham
Bonfire Society.
HBS prides itself on keeping
Sussex’s unique bonfire traditions
alive, while welcoming new
generations to the fold. Younger
members have joined the committee
to help bring fresh ideas and ensure
the society remains relevant for
years to come.
The society also runs a junior
section, whose young members
proudly carry their own banner and
represent the future of Hailsham’s
bonfire heritage.
True to tradition, the event is not
just about spectacle but also about
giving back. This year’s nominated
charities are Inspire Sussex and the
Children with Cancer Fund, both of
which provide vital support to people
across East Sussex.
Scan the QR code to
view all our images and
download to support
the society, or visit
https://bit.ly/Hailsham-Bonfire-2025

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 NEWS 15

16 IN REMEMBRANCE
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
The Day Sussex Died
BY IAIN LUXFORD
THIS month we will remember the
millions of lives lost and destroyed
on the battlefields of World War One
and in conflicts since. During the
1914-18 war — supposedly the war
to end all wars — there were many
unimaginable days of horror. One of
the lesser known but darkest days
of the conflict has become known as
“The Day Sussex Died”.
Over the four years of the First
World War there were more than 16
million civilian and military deaths
— making it was one of the deadliest
conflicts in the history of the human
race. For Sussex, one particular
infamous but often forgotten
day stands out.
The Battle of the Boar’s Head was an
attack on 30 June 1916 at Richebourgl’Avoué
north of the Somme. It was
the day before the infamous main
Somme offensive and members of the
Listen to the wraiths of morning in Flanders fields of grey,
Can you hear The Royal Sussex who came and went away
And linger still in graves unknown amidst the furrow and the thorn.
But never flinched, duty done, these sons of Sussex bred and born.
Anon.
British Army, most of them members
of the South Downs Battalions from
the Royal Sussex Regiment, were
told their objective was the nearby
salient, a bulge in the line known
as ‘The Boar’s Head’. It was to
be ‘bitten out’.
The 11th, 12th, and
13th battalions bore
the unofficial title of
‘Lowther’s Lambs’, men
of the South Downs who
had joined up together to
fight together and became
part of the wider Royal Sussex
Regiment. The Battle of The Boar’s
Head would be their first real action
in the war. For very many of them, it
would also be their last.
The truth of the situation was
this was really a diversionary
raid designed to distract the
Germans and draw them
away from the preparations
for the main Somme
battle a day later.
Initial plans had been
made which involved
the 11th Battalion leading
the attack, with the 12th
Battalion on their right, and
the 13th Battalion in reserve. When
he saw the plans, Lt.-Col. Harman
Grisewood, expressed serious
misgivings that if his untried troops
attacked over unfamiliar ground a
disaster might result. He is reported
to have informed his brigade
commander: “I am not sacrificing my
men as cannon-fodder!”
Harman Grisewood was
promptly sent home on leave
and the preparations for the
attack continued.
Two of the South Downs battalions,
containing men recruited from
across East and West Sussex, attacked
the enemy front position before
dawn. They expected to have surprise
on their side, but sadly they were
wrong. The Germans had known they
were coming for several days and the
artillery bombardment had had little
effect on the German wire. As a result,
the attack was a futile disaster.
Despite all the odds, heavily outnumbered,
and suffering withering
machine gun attack, the Sussex
soldiers initially took and held the
German front line trench and then
the second trench for several hours.
Left: 11th Battalion Southdowns. Image credit, Ian Barton. Above: Southdowns at Cooden camp

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 IN REMEMBRANCE 17
Battle map showing Sussex battalions
Eastbourne VC Nelson Carter
The recruiter, Lowther
But running low on ammunition and
facing a fierce German counter-attack
the battalions eventually had no
choice but to retire.
There is even a story that one man
brought back a notice in English
from the German lines, announcing:
“Come on, Sussex boys. We’ve been
waiting for you for three days!”
Following the short but hugely
costly attack there were tales of great
courage. Company Sergeant Major
Nelson Carter from Eastbourne
single-handedly captured a German
machine gun post and used the
weapon to cover the retreat before
fleeing German trenches himself.
He then repeatedly re-entered No
Man’s Land to rescue wounded men
and carry them to safety. On his final
trip he was shot through the chest
and killed. He was posthumously
awarded the Victoria Cross
for his bravery.
A fellow officer wrote the following
to Carter’s widow: “When I last saw
him he was close to the German line,
acting as leader to a small party of four
or five men. I was afterwards told that he
had entered the German second line, and
had brought back an enemy machine
gun, having put the gun team out of
action. I heard that he shot one of them
with his revolver. I next saw him about
an hour later (I had been wounded in the
meanwhile and was lying in our trench).
Your husband repeatedly went over the
parapet. I saw him going over alone and
carrying in our wounded men from ‘No
Man’s Land’. He brought them in on his
back, and he could not have done this
had he not possessed exceptional physical
strength as well as courage. It was in
going over for the sixth or seventh time
that the was shot through the chest. I saw
him fall just inside our trench.”
Other awards for the South Downs
included twenty Military Medals,
eight Distinguished Conduct
Medals, four military crosses and a
Distinguished Service Order.
In fewer than five atrocious hours
the three South Downs battalions
of the Royal Sussex Regiment had
366 killed - 17 officers and 349 men,
including 12 sets of brothers, three
from one family. A further 1,000 men
were wounded or taken prisoner. The
13th battalion was almost completely
wiped out. No wonder in the
regimental history it is known as “The
Day Sussex Died”.
Returning from his enforced leave,
Lt Col Harman Grisewood, who
had been sent home for refusing to
“sacrifice my men as cannon fodder”
was relieved of command.
Of all the dark days of war, for Sussex
this surely has to be the darkest.
They shall grow not old, as we that are
left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor
the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.
THE LOWTHER’S LAMBS
Lieutenant Colonel Claude Lowther,
owner of Herstmonceux Castle.
The son of a Royal Naval Captain,
Lowther was educated at Rugby
School and after leaving school he
entered the Diplomatic Service.
In South Africa during the Second
Boer War he served in the Imperial
Yeomanry until 1900 and was
recommended for the Victoria
Cross for gallantry at the 1900 Battle
of Faber’s Put. After leaving the
army he became MP for Eskdale in
Lancashire until 1906. He was fond
of the arts and a man of refined taste.
In 1911 Lowther moved to Sussex
where he bought and began to restore
Herstmonceux Castle.
In 1914 he raised three battalions
for the Royal Sussex Regiment —
the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Southdowns.
These battalions became known as
“Lowther’s Lambs”, a nick-name
referring to the well-known Sussex
breed of Sheep, the “Southdown”.
Their mascot was Peter, a lamb
from Applesham Farm at Lancing.
The last reunion of the Lowther Lambs
Peter died in 1928 and is buried at
Herstmonceux Castle.
Lowther wanted all the men who
served in these battalions to be truly
Sussex men. It didn’t matter where
they were living at the time, as long as
they were born in Sussex.
He said: “If you join the Southdowns
you will join a very gallant regiment
— one of which every man can
be justly proud. You will know by
the Roll of Honour how they have
distinguished themselves. And if they
do not return, their names will live for
ever to the glory of the county — the
county where I have made my home;
the county I love very much. I am
determined to make it impossible
for any man in my regiment to
go into the workhouse or die in
destitution. It is four to one against
them, and I call every one of you to
join the Southdowns, for Sussex is to
stand by her sons.”
Boars Head history board
Boars Head Memorial Nelson Carter memorial in Eastbourne A corner of France, forever a piece of Sussex

18 REGULARS
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
OPEN EVERY WED & SAT UNTIL 22 OCT
For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk
and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden
“That soft autumnal time… The woodland foliage now… Is gathered by the wild November blast” — John Howard Bryant (1807-1902), “The Indian Summer”
AS autumn arrives, many of us start
to wind down our gardening activities,
tidying beds and borders in anticipation
of winter. However, this season is a
golden opportunity to transform your
ornamental garden into a haven for local
wildlife. With a few thoughtful choices,
you can provide vital food, shelter, and
habitats for birds, invertebrates, and
small mammals during the toughest
months of the year. Not only does
this help wildlife survive, but it also
brings life and interest to your garden
all winter long.
One of the simplest ways to support
garden birds is by planting a variety
of berry- and seed-bearing shrubs and
perennials. As insects become scarce,
birds rely heavily on berries and seeds.
Consider including native options such as
hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), holly
(Ilex aquifolium), and rowan (Sorbus
aucuparia). These provide a rich supply of
berries well into winter.
Other excellent choices are cotoneaster,
pyracantha, and crab apple (Malus),
which attract blackbirds, thrushes, and
other fruit-loving visitors. Ornamental
grasses like Panicum virgatum and
Miscanthus produce seed heads that
goldfinches and sparrows will appreciate.
Cone of cones. Photo John Glover
Remember, the more diverse your
planting, the wider the range of birds
you’ll support.
Invertebrates — such as beetles,
worms, and spiders — are the backbone
of a healthy garden ecosystem and a
crucial food source for other wildlife.
Leaving some areas ‘untidy’ can make
all the difference. Piles of logs, twigs,
or stones offer shelter for insects,
newts, and hedgehogs. Allow leaves
to accumulate in corners or under
hedges, as these create warm hiding
spots for overwintering invertebrates
and small mammals.
Dead stems and seed heads left
standing through winter not only look
attractive with a dusting of frost but also
provide shelter for insects and seeds for
birds. Resist the urge to cut everything
back; instead, tidy selectively and leave
some areas for wildlife to enjoy.
Shelter is as important as food for
wildlife in winter. Evergreens such as
holly, box (Buxus sempervirens), and
yew (Taxus baccata) offer year-round
cover for birds and small mammals
to roost and hide from predators.
Dense, twiggy shrubs like dogwood
(Cornus) and hazel (Corylus avellana)
give extra protection, especially
during harsh weather.
Consider also the value of ornamental
grasses and taller perennials with
strong stems — these not only create
winter interest but form windbreaks and
sheltered spots for a range of creatures.
The garden that I am fortunate to
work in, Bates Green Garden, provides
an inspiring example of how gardens
can support wildlife through winter.
The wildlife pond remains a lifeline for
birds and mammals, offering drinking
water and a home for overwintering
amphibians. The dead hedge — a simple
barrier made from woody prunings
— offers nesting sites and shelter for
invertebrates and hedgehogs.
Artist Emma Lindsay collaborates
with us in the Garden periodically.
Emma is constructing an artwork
titled The Cone Of Cones, which is
installed in the Wildlife Garden beneath
the scots pine that supplied all the
cones. This installation is intended
to serve as a visual feature, provide
habitat for wildlife, and prompts many
discussions with visitors.
Compost piles in the garden not only
recycle plant waste but also generate
warmth and habitat for a myriad
of creatures, from slow worms to
beetles. Similarly, the leaf mould pile
is a haven for fungi, woodlice, and
other decomposers, enriching the soil
and supporting the food web. These
features prove that a natural approach
to gardening benefits both wildlife and
the garden itself.
Here are some practical ideas for
you this month-
• Plant a mix of berrying shrubs, fruit
trees, and seed-producing perennials to
provide a continuous food supply.
• Leave some seed heads and dead stems
in your borders until the spring arrives.
• Build a log pile or dead hedge using
prunings and twigs — these are simple
and effective habitats. This is a
delightfully warming winter project.
• Allow leaves to accumulate in a
quiet corner or start a leaf mould
pile for extra habitat and future
soil improvement.
• Consider a small pond — just an
old washing-up bowl sunk into the
ground can make a difference for
amphibians and birds.
• Trim hedges and dense shrubs in late
winter, not autumn, to avoid disturbing
sheltering wildlife and to preserve
berries for food.
• Install nest boxes and insect hotels in
sheltered spots.
• The most important of them all is avoid
using pesticides and herbicides; let
nature balance itself.
Supporting wildlife over winter doesn’t
require a wild or unkempt garden — just
a thoughtful approach and a willingness
to share your space with nature. By
taking cues from Bates Green Garden
and integrating features like ponds, dead
hedges, and leaf piles, you’ll help birds,
invertebrates, and small mammals find
food and shelter when they need it most.
In return, your garden will be richer in
life and beauty, even in the depths of
winter. Every small action counts, so
let us all start preparing our garden for
wildlife this autumn.
Enjoy your gardens in November.
UK
Pantomime
Award Winner
2025!

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 NEWS 19
Community raises
money for local families
affected by cancer.
FAMILIES, volunteers and
local dignitaries gathered at
Knockhatch Adventure Park on
Tuesday, 28th October to celebrate
and support the work of the
Children with Cancer Fund (CWCF)
— a charity helping families across
East Sussex, Brighton and Hove for
over 27 years.
Cllr. Paul Holbrook, from Hailsham
Town Council, donated a large panda
bear soft toy to the charity. The funfilled
day featured a teddy tombola,
where visitors could win prizes while
helping to raise vital funds.
The idea began as a light-hearted
competition entry that soon turned
into a community collaboration,
with Knockhatch hosting the
charity’s stall.
Chris, representing Children with
Cancer Fund, said: “We currently
support 157 families locally. The
teddies we receive go onto our
tombolas and raise the pennies that
make a big difference — allowing us
to grant wishes, run fun events, and
bring families together. We’re so
grateful to Paul for donating the teddy
and to Knockhatch for welcoming
us this week.”
The event was attended by East
Sussex County Council Chairman,
Cllr. Roy Galley, who praised the
charity’s achievements and its lasting
impact on the community.
He said: “Children with Cancer
Fund has grown tremendously
over the years and continues to do
astonishing work. They’re one of
many fantastic East Sussex charities
I’m proud to promote. It’s also great
to be here at Knockhatch — tourism
and leisure play an important role in
our local economy, and it’s brilliant
to see them giving back through
partnerships like this.”
The event highlighted the strength
of community spirit in East Sussex
— bringing together families, local
businesses, and volunteers with
one shared goal: helping children
and families affected by cancer find
moments of joy and respite.
Ambition to
Action gives
business a boost
BUSINESSES across the area
will soon be able to access
tailored support to help them
grow and develop.
Ambition to Action programme
is available to small and medium
enterprises in Eastbourne, Lewes,
Wealden and Rother districts, will run
until the end March 2026.
The programme is run by Oxford
Innovation and managed by
East Sussex County Council who
successfully secured £355,000 of
funding through the UK Shared
Prosperity Fund allocations awarded
to Eastbourne, Lewes, Rother, and
Wealden councils.
Cllr Penny di Cara, the county
council’s lead member for
economy, said: “This is fantastic
news for businesses wanting to
grow and will give the East Sussex
economy a real boost.
“Through the Ambition to Action
programme small and medium
enterprises can access one-to-one
expert advice and tailored action
plans to remove barriers to their
growth, improve productivity and
help them thrive.”
The programme provides
support across a range of areas
including leadership and strategy,
digital adoption and AI, access to
finance, export readiness, and low
carbon transition.
Cllr Christine Bayliss, Rother
District Council’s portfolio holder
for regeneration and economic
development, said: “The Ambition
to Action programme will be a real
asset to Rother — not only for small
and medium businesses, but for
communities in our largely rural
district. Helping businesses to
diversify and modernise will unlock
much-needed jobs and boost the
economy in our towns and villages. I
would encourage businesses to see
if they are eligible for support and
take advantage of the programme to
help them thrive.”
Businesses based in Eastbourne,
Lewes, Rother or Wealden districts
can find out more by visiting
www.ambitiontoaction.co.uk
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20 MOTORING
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
From Top Gear legend to
the Beachy Head roads
REPORT AND PHOTOS
BY PAUL GIBSON
WITH no traction control, no
ABS and no compromises, the
TVR Tuscan S is one of the most
exhilarating cars ever built, so when
Eastbourne specialists HPC Classics
handed me the keys to the very car
that outpaced a speed camera on
BBC’s Top Gear, I discovered exactly
why it’s become a British legend.
The car is now almost 25 -yearsold
and is in the hands of the
Eastbourne-based specialist classic
car company. On a recent visit they
did something extraordinary: they
handed me the keys.
The sun broke through the clouds,
the roof came off, and together
with HPC co-founder Miles Hardy,
we headed for the winding roads
around Beachy Head.
Within seconds, I understood why
the Tuscan S earned its reputation
as one of Britain’s most thrilling
supercars. The noise was intoxicating
— a deep, mechanical roar that
vibrated through the steering wheel
and up your spine.
Every twist of the road demanded
your full attention and the Tuscan
S will soon let you know if you’re
not concentrating on getting
round the corners.
TVR has always done things
differently. The small British
manufacturer built bonkers sports
cars. Brutally fast, strikingly
beautiful and with absolutely no
electronic driver aids.
The Tuscan S, introduced in 2001,
was a refined evolution of the earlier
Speed Six, featuring a 4.0-litre
straight-six engine delivering over
390bhp in a car weighing less than a
small hatchback.
I first encountered one in 2002
while working at Gatwick Airport.
I was handed the keys to park a
customer’s Tuscan S, and spent half an
hour figuring out how to open the
door (for the uninitiated, it’s a hidden
button under the wing mirror).
Stepping inside felt like stepping
fifty years into the future, all curves,
chrome and controlled chaos. But,
as it wasn’t my car, the drive was
cautious and brief.
Fast-forward 24 years, and this time,
the Tuscan wasn’t just for parking — it
was for driving.
This Tuscan S has quite the
pedigree. Initially a factory press car,
appearing in all the famous motoring
mags and tv shows, it’s only had only
three owners since it left the factory.
Its biggest moment of fame came
when Top Gear’s Richard Hammond
used it to test how fast a car needed
to travel to beat a speed camera. The
answer? Around 170 miles per hour,
and this very car did it. Today, it still
wears that history proudly, with its
aggressive stance, outrageous curves
and unmistakable sound.
HPC Classics was born from the
shared passion of Chris Phipps, Miles
Hardy, and François Calvino. Three
men with deep roots in motorsport
and specialist vehicle engineering.
Based on Lottbridge Drove in
Eastbourne, HPC Classics sits
alongside its sister company
JAGTechnic, founded in 1998, which
has become one of the area’s leading
Jaguar and Land Rover specialists.
Together, the trio offers a bespoke
suite of services: car sales, full
restorations, servicing, race car
building, maintenance and track
support. Its mission is to combine
expertise with enthusiasm and give
every car the care it deserves.
Stepping into HPC Classics’
workshop is like walking into an
automotive dreamscape. Everywhere
you look, there’s something to make
your jaw drop from perfectly restored
1960s Jaguar E-Types to a 1957 Austin
Healey, alongside modern classics
from Porsche and Jaguar.
But HPC Classics is about more than
appearances, they engineer these cars
to perform as spectacularly as they
look. Take the Tuscan S, for example.
Its engine was rebuilt in 2022 by
Powers Performance, ticking off
a major milestone. But raw power
alone wasn’t enough, the car needed
to handle as sharply as it roared.
Over the past year, HPC Classics has
meticulously refined it, carrying out
work that ensures the Tuscan S isn’t
just a showpiece, such as rebuilding
the differential and drive shafts,
whilst all dishes, washers and bolts
have been replaced, with new wheel
bearings, new front drag arms and
ball joints, a full geometry set up
are just some of the work which has
recently been carried out.
The result? A car that not only
turns heads but drives flawlessly
and is a testament to HPC Classics’
philosophy: every nut, bolt, and curve
meticulously attended to.
When Miles invited me to
experience a car from what I now call
‘the smile factory’, life just can’t get
any better driving around the iconic
Eastbourne countryside, sunglasses
on, roof down and in charge of one of
the most stunning cars on the road.
What’s also just as remarkable, is
how this Eastbourne-based business
has built such a global footprint.
Many vehicles restored and sold
by HPC Classics now end up in the
United States, where recent law
changes allow enthusiasts to import
cars over 25 years old. For many
overseas buyers, HPC has become the
trusted gateway to owning a piece of
British motoring heritage.
As we rolled back into the workshop
after two hours of pure driving bliss,
the Tuscan S still ticking and popping
as it cooled, it struck me that HPC
Classics isn’t just in the business of
restoring cars, its in the business of
restoring dreams.
In a world of electric efficiency
and automated driving, it’s
comforting to know there are still
people keeping the spirit of raw,
analogue motoring alive right
here in Eastbourne.
Fore more information on HPC
Classics, visit hpcclassics.co.uk

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 NEWS 21
Brenda celebrates her
102nd birthday in style
THERE were smiles all round at Woodside
Hall Nursing Home recently (16 October),
as resident Brenda celebrated her 102nd
birthday with a day full of surprises, visitors
and celebrations.
The milestone occasion was marked with fun
activities organised by staff at the home, and
Brenda was showered with affection from the
local community. She received an astonishing
238 birthday cards, countless gifts, and even
her very own front page from Hailsham News to
mark the special day.
The celebrations included a visit from
members of the Eastbourne Historic Vehicle
Club, who arrived with a display of beautiful
classic cars, as well as flowers and even more
cards for Brenda. Later in the day, Beata and
Barry, a ballroom dancing duo, had Brenda up
on her feet and joining in the fun.
Natalie Hoare, who helped organise the
celebrations, said: “Today we celebrated our
wonder woman Brenda’s 102nd birthday. She
started the morning opening a whopping 238
cards so generously given by you lovely humans
on Facebook, and to the absolute angels that
showered her with gifts.
“Then the Eastbourne Historic Vehicle Club
visited with their beautiful classic cars, more
cards and flowers, followed by Beata and Barry
the ballroom dancers who had Brenda up on
her feet for an afternoon of dancing!
“After all that, Brenda is having a family tea
party and will definitely sleep well tonight!
Thank you to each and every one of you who
helped make this the best birthday ever.”
LAURIE’S POEM CORNER
My poem for this month is a quite recently written one and it features in my
14th book “Poetic Wisdom” that was only published November 2024.
It is also very appropriate as I wrote it while on a cruise last September
24, and so it will come out to you in this newspaper when I am on
another cruise.
Please forgive all this ‘cruise talk’, but the poem will give you the reason
for it, as I actually wrote this poem in bed, asleep in my cabin, following
jokes with the waiting team.
Well, I woke up to write it, as sadly I cannot quite write my poems in my
sleep, but I do get many ideas! So yes, I still enjoy some humour at myself,
thus please enjoy.
Arise, Sir Laurie, Sir Laurie, arise
But it is only because of my name,
For when recently on an ocean cruise
The staff decided I had a bit of fame,
As when they were reading my pass
It had my legal name Laurence on,
So I said although my registered name
I answered to Laurie and was no con.
So after that the word quickly spread
Among all the staff and guests too,
That it was preferred to call me Laurie
For that is what the staff like to do.
ARISE, SIR LAURIE!
To purchase Laurie’s books, visit www.lauriewilkinson.com
However, after this the word soon got out
I was a multi-published, successful poet,
Who donated all above costs to charity
Help for Heroes, for people to know it,
Because after that I seemed to now have
Sir put in front of Laurie when addressed,
Which then was taken on by everyone else
And thus with “Sir Laurie” I was blessed.
Now I am quite a simple sort of chap
Well that is what I would really hope,
Apart from spreading the charity word
With which I find it all easy to cope.
So it seems that there is a win all round
With Laurie and Help for Heroes known,
And now joined to make very sure that
Heroes and Sir Laurie are well shown.
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Vauxhall Astra
2013, 1.7 CDTi, 147,000 miles, new clutch and
flywheel, new MoT, full service history, 5-door, £20
annual road tax.
£2,195
BMW 320d
2013, 2.0, diesel, manual, finished in silver with a
black leather interior, 135,880 miles, new clutch and
flywheel, £20 annual road tax, MOT valid until
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£4,295
Kia Sportage
2012, 1.8 petrol, full MoT, Manual, 130,000 miles,
2 owners, white exterior, black interior, spacious,
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£3,595
MINI One
2015, 1.2 petrol, manual, 149,000 miles, ULEZ-compliant,
12 months MOT, service history, just serviced,
£20 Annual Road Tax, 2 owners from new, Air
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£3,495
Ford Fiesta Econetic
2013, Econetic Technology 1.6 TDCi, 143,300 miles,
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See our latest stock at nextgenvehiclesales.co.uk

22 SPORT
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Official opening of
hockey pitch celebrated
HAILSHAM Academy is celebrating
the official opening of the school’s
newly renovated all-weather
pitch — all thanks to funding from
Wealden District Council, Hailsham
Academy, Hailsham Hockey Club
and Hailsham Town Council.
The funding provided by the local
organisations was used to provide
essential upgrades to the facility,
including the replacement of the
astro carpet and the installation of
new LED lighting. The pitch is now
in full use. The work safeguards
the future of community-use
hockey at this site.
Representatives, including Wealden
District Council’s Councillor Kelvin
Williams, joined Hailsham Academy
staff, partners, and students on
Wednesday 22 October, to celebrate
the official opening of the facility with
speeches, a ribbon-cutting ceremony
and to watch hockey games played on
the newly renovated pitch.
Anna Robinson, Executive
Headteacher of MARK Education
Trust, with Natalie Chamberlain
and Tom Redman, Headteachers
of Hailsham Academy, and Max
Dyer, Head of PE, said, “We are
delighted to officially open our
new Astro pitch — a much-needed
resource for both our school and the
wider community. As a school, we
have been working to raise funds
to improve this vital facility, but
the renovations would not have
been possible without the generous
grant of £216,406 from Wealden
District Council.
“We are also extremely fortunate
to have the support of Hailsham
Town Council and Hailsham Hockey
Club, who through fundraising,
member donations and financial
planning over the years, have
together contributed £25,000
towards this project.
On behalf of all students, staff,
and trustees at Hailsham Academy,
we would like to thank our parents
and carers, Wealden District
Council, Hailsham Hockey Club
and Hailsham Town Council
for their part in securing this
outcome for our school and wider
community. The completion of this
campaign represents a real boost
for school sport and for community
activities alike.”
Councillor Kelvin Williams,
Alliance for Wealden (Liberal
Democrat) and lead councillor
for Public Health and Asset
Management, said, “The renovation
of the school’s hockey pitch is a vital
investment in the health, well-being,
and future of both the school and
the wider community. This project
forms part of the council’s ongoing
adopted wellbeing strategies to
support local communities by
providing the upgrading of local sport
infrastructure.”
The school has extended special
thanks to Hailsham Active
for their invaluable support
throughout the campaign.
The pitch is now in use and is
available to hire to other local
sports clubs. Please contact
Play Sport UK for further
information or email booking
enquiries to info@playsportuk.com

Your local independent
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Residential Lettings Land New Homes
MEET YOUR
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TEAM
ST ANDREWS CLOSE - £499,950
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WENTWORTH CLOSE - GUIDE £425-£450,000
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JOHN STEVENS
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Benefits include off-road parking, sunny rear
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MARLOW DRIVE - £349,950
Spacious four-bedroom townhouse in a modern gated
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The master suite occupies the top floor with ensuite
and fitted wardrobes. Includes off-road parking, garage,
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3D virtual tour available.
WOODACRES WAY - £329,950
Beautifully presented three-bedroom semi-detached
home in a popular location, within walking distance
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master, modern family bathroom, and two further
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and 3D virtual tour. Viewing highly recommended.
FREE VALUATIONS FOR SELLING & RENTING
SAMUEL TOWNSEND
NICK RUSSELL
LUCY BROWN
SAIL STREET - £325,000
Immaculate three-bedroom semi-detached home
built in 2021, beautifully upgraded and positioned
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GOURNAY ROAD - £310,000
Beautifully presented three-bedroom semi-detached
home, tucked away in a well-connected part of Hailsham.
Features a front-aspect lounge, stylish kitchen/
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GORDON ROAD - £265,000
Charming two-bedroom Victorian cottage ideally
positioned near Hailsham town centre. Combines
period character with modern upgrades, including rewiring,
new roof, modern boiler, and double glazing.
Features a front lounge, open-plan dining area, fitted
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ready and full of charm.
LAURA STEVENS
47 HIGH STREET, HAILSHAM, BN27 1AN
CALL 01323 840444 or visit stevensandcarter.co.uk

6 7 3 5 1 9 4 8 2
24 PUZZLES
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Cryptic Clue: Where to get a fruity Tagine that sounds like it might be dear,
but really is exceptionally well priced.(10)
Solution : Check page 25 or Call 01323 842400 for the answer.
PUZZLES
WORDSEARCH
Rocks and Minerals
Can you find all the listed words hidden in the grid below?
They may run either forwards or backwards, horizontally,
vertically or diagonally, but always in a straight line.
AGATE
ARKOSE
BASALT
CHALCEDONY
CHERT
COAL
EMERY
JET
ONYX
PLUMBAGO
RUTILE
SANIDINE
SCHIST
SOAPSTONE
TUFF
URALITE
VESUVIANITE
ZINC
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
Z E R U C D E E M F C O A
M P F B A S G A T I F F G
U A W N O E L L P A Q O U
E D X K O W A D Q Z G R R
T R R T F S O A D A S A A
I A R Z A C C A B I J Y L
N Z R B O H P M F Z X F I
A V M N E A U J F F K X T
I Q Y R Y L S T X J U Y E
V X T R P C P O S Q Y T K
U J E T C E R U T I L E E
S M E N I D I N A S H B B
E R I F B O D A P Y Z C S
V Z K T E N O T S P A O S
Z Q V S A Y H V Q V V L I
CODEWORD
Each letter of the alphabet has a different number. Substitute numbers
for letters to make words that will complete the puzzle. The letters at
the side and the check-box below the grid may help you keep track.
23 7 5 1 3 3 1 11 4 6 14 6 23 1
3 3 1 7 4 26 24
7 11 4 6 9 1 12 6 7 1 24 14 4 1
24 24 6 14 3 8 21 21
14 15 1 20 1 3 23 7 16 17 24 17 21 2
6 19 26 24 16 15
1 1 3 6 1 4 24 23 17 19 6 1 20
24 17 22 3 6 7 24 6
23 4 14 15 8 3 7 24 9 6 12 25 23
1 8 1 1 23 25
10 4 8 6 9 7 24 23 26 25 6 21 1 14
A N T
4 4 17 26 7 17 7 23
9 7 22 1 24 6 24 18 9 4 1 24 13 7
1 22 1 7 12 6 24
5 3 17 18 1 14 14 17 3 25 17 7 3 22
Check-box
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
A
T
N
N
O
P
Q
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S
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U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Across
1 Former name of Ho
Chi Minh City (6)
7 ABC (8)
8 At the summit of (4)
10 Song or hymn of
mourning (6)
11 Savoury taste
experience (4)
12 List of contents
of a book (5)
13 Deal with in a
routine way (7)
17 Receptacle used
by smokers (7)
19 Strong, lightweight
wood (5)
21 Establishments where
alcoholic drinks
are served (4)
23 Distributor of
playing cards (6)
25 State parliament
of Russia (4)
26 Animal or plant that
lives in or on a host (8)
27 Remained (6)
Down
1 Nazi emblem (8)
2 Material effigy
worshipped as a god (4)
3 Devoid of clothing (5)
4 Arrogant or
presumptuous person (7)
CROSSWORD
1 2 3 4 5 6
8 9
7
10 11
12 13 14 15
17 18 19
16
21 22 23 24
26
5 Extremely quick (4)
6 Game associated with
Wimbledon (6)
9 Father or mother (6)
14 Maddened (6)
15 Sheath for a sword,
dagger or bayonet (8)
16 Box in the garden in
which children play (7)
18 Sailor (6)
20 Projecting edge
of a roof (5)
22 Chair (4)
24 Deep red gemstone (4)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in
such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal
row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.
1 4 2
9 7
8 6
7 8 9
2 8 4 3 1
5 3 2
5 3
4 1
7 6 2
20
27
SOLUTIONS
25
7 9 6 3 2 1 8 4 5
4 3 5 7 8 6 1 2 9
8 2 1 4 9 5 7 3 6
9 5 4 1 6 3 2 7 8
2 6 8 9 4 7 3 5 1
3 1 7 8 5 2 6 9 4
5 8 2 6 7 4 9 1 3
1 4 9 2 3 8 5 6 7
6 7 3 5 1 9 4 8 2
7 6 2
SUDOKU
T A P E R R E Q U T E
A Q U E G E N S U E
K E W T X N M Y
E E R U N T O E W
T S K B R A N G H T
U B
N T
C M E S
D E N N U E N Z A
R O F E S S O H O A R D
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I E V I 9 7
N O D R I A N I
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F L I L E D E5 A 3 G I N
P4 1R © Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)
Est 2011
CODEWORD
S A I G O N U F T
W D A L P H A B E T
A T O P K S S N
S L A M E N T T A N G
T R D A I
I N D E X P R O C E S S
K N S T R C
A S H T R A Y B A L S A
E N E Z B
B A R S D E A L E R B
M E P V D U M A
P A R A S I T E B R
N T T S T A Y E D
CROSSWORD
Z E R U C D E E M F C O A
M P F B A S G A T I F F G
U A W N O E L L P A Q O U
E D X K O W A D Q Z G R R
T R R T F S O A D A S A A
I A R Z A C C A B I J Y L
N Z R B O H P M F Z X F I
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Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news NOVEMBER 2025 NEWS 25
Pavilion Players debut with dark
and powerful production
VHS TAPE
TO DVD or USB SERVICE
THE Pavilion Players are the latest addition
to the developing live arts programme at
the town’s iconic art-deco cinema, music
venue and theatre.
Formerly known as The Dicker Players, they
have relocated and rebranded themselves,
launching their new look with a thrilling
piece of original writing by Ellie Hale-White,
who also directed.
Hunting for Witches was perfectly pitched
for the time of year, being a dark piece
exploring the psychology of persecution,
greed and envy. The one act play is set in the
17th century in an unnamed village where
sister turns against sister in a bitter and sinister
examination of the underbelly of familial and
community relations. Stirred up and steered
by the witch hunter himself, played forcefully
by Peter Owden.
In a very punchy forty-five minutes the two
lead actresses, Katherine Drew and Lauren
Hickman Smith, both deliver excellent,
nuanced performances as the two sisters. They
are ably supported by a convincing ensemble
who create detailed characters in the context
of a stressed, enclosed and storm-wracked
world where only the words of Father Moore
(a very strong Clive Hale) and Samuel (a
powerful and protective Chris Giles) try to hold
back the hysteria.
The casts work was skilfully supported by
Gareth Jones on lighting, and Richard Todman,
who not only operated but also created the
excellent sound effects, particularly around the
brutal tempest that throws everyone over the
edge of reason.
Gareth has expressed thanks to Liz Overs for
“permission to use her beautiful music based on
Sussex Folklore”.
The production takes place at the Hailsham
Pavilion on 16th & 17th October. Tickets can be
booked at hailshampavilion.co.uk.
IDEAL
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Season’s favourite; Classic Prawn Cocktail.
Filo wrapped Feta, Honey & Sesame dressing.
Lightly Spiced Soup of Allotment Vegetables.
Pheasant & Wild Mushroom Risotto.
Now in our 15th year,
no one does
Christmas better than us.
Fabulous festive Roast Turkey Dinner.
Includes all your favourite traditional trimmings: Pigs in blankets,
stuffing, roast potatoes & vegetables, gravy and cranberry sauce.
Beef Brisket, slow cooked & tender.
Silky red wine & port gravy with smoked paprika creamed mash potato.
Venison Tagine, rich & warmly spiced.
Succulent braised local Venison, Moroccan style curry, served with rice and flat bread.
Char grilled Sword Fish Steak.
Colourful selection of Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables and baby potatoes.
Chopped Roast Half Duck and Parsnip Purée.
Partnered perfectly with a sticky shallot & plum sauce.
Steamed Pudding of Root vegetables and Puy Lentils.
A delicious meat free choice (vegan on request), with a rich red wine gravy.
for the amazing
price of £29.95p.p.
You are invited to join us and
celebrate Christmas 2025
let’s start with
followed by the main event
All main courses to be served with a lovely selection of seasonal
vegetables and potatoes where appropriate.
and desserts to finish
Warm Sticky Rum & Date Chocolate Brownie.
Orange Crème Brûlée in a short crust case.
Cappuchino Mousse and Hazelnut meringue.
Callenders’ Family Recipe Christmas Pud.
www.callendersrestaurant.co.uk

26 SPORT
NOVEMBER 2025
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Hellingly Battles Hard
in New League
BY IAN HANNAFORD
HELLINGLY Rugby Club’s new
league campaign is officially
underway, and our teams have
already delivered a mix of
challenging battles and dominant
victories, setting an exciting tone for
the season ahead.
1st XV: A Learning Curve and a
Dominant Win — Our 1st XV, fresh
off last year’s historic league title
and promotion, faced an immediate
test in their new division. The
season opener saw them host Hove
2s, resulting in a tough 17-36 loss.
Despite the result, the team showed
flashes of the championship spirit,
demonstrating that they are ready to
compete at a higher level.
However, the team quickly
found their rhythm and proved
their quality in their second fixture
against Shoreham. In a statement
performance, Hellingly roared to a
commanding 13-82 victory! The result
showcased the team’s potent attack
and structural discipline, sending a
clear message to the rest of the league
that Hellingly intends to solidify its
position and thrive in the new division.
2nd XV: Drawing First Blood
— This season marks the exciting
introduction of our 2nd VX, created to
offer more game time and integrate
new players into the club family.
They kicked off their debut campaign
with a nail-biting encounter away
against Burgess Hill.
In a fiercely contested match,
the 2nd XV showed tremendous
resolve to secure a hard-fought
15-15 draw on the road. This result
is a huge positive for the new squad,
highlighting their immediate
competitiveness and the successful
integration of new players.
Big October wins
keep Stringers
on track
BY STUART FAIRWAY
HAILSHAM Town recorded two big
league wins — and a vital away draw
— to keep the team on track entering
the middle third of the season, as
well as progressing in the Sussex
Intermediate Cup.
The month began with a 2-2 draw
away at defending champions
Rustington, highlighted before the
campaign as one of Hailsham’s biggest
rivals in the promotion race, with
the returning Henry Thompson and
Sammy Townsend both on target. The
Stringers followed that up with a brace
of 4-0 wins against sides relegated
from Division One last season,
beating both Alfold (11/10) and then
Storrington (18/10) 4-0 at Peacehaven;
Harry Mills, Michael Lloyd, Toby Brett
and Ola James scoring in the first game
with Pout, James, Owen Brown and
Albery scoring in the second.
Hailsham have also progressed in
the Sussex FA Intermediate Cup, with
a 3-0 win against Wittering United
on Saturday 25th October setting
up a Third Round tie against fellow
Wealden side Rotherfield. Ola James
bagged two in the trip to deepest
West Sussex, with the ever-reliable
Sammy Townsend also on target. Cup
action continued in midweek with the
Hastings FA Intermediate Cup Quarter
Final away to Westfield II seeing a
rotated Stringers exit to a team packed
with County League experience.
Hailsham will look to continue their
good form in November with league
games against Brighton Electricity,
Alfold, Upper Beeding and league
leaders TD Shipley, as well as the
Cup tie against Rotherfield, whilst
the Women also have a busy month,
taking on Mile Oak, Haywards
Heath, Brighton Seagals, TD
Shipley and The View.
The Women’s side meanwhile
earned their first league points of the
season with a late Amelia Bowerman
goal sealing the win against
Crowborough (5/10), but exited the
Sussex FA Women’s Challenge Cup
against Premier Division opposition,
beaten 11-3 by Three Bridges despite
goals from Bowerman, Kelsey
Birchmore and Shantelle Omar.
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Sports Clubs unite to
strengthen links
HAILSHAM Cricket Club and Hailsham
Hockey Club have announced a new
partnership that will see the cricket club’s
Western Road Pavilion become the official
venue for the hockey club’s post-match
hospitality at weekends.
The collaboration marks a significant step in
strengthening ties between two of the town’s
longest-established sports organisations. With
their playing seasons running at different times
of the year, both clubs say the partnership
makes perfect sense and will help build a
stronger sporting community in Hailsham.
The Western Road Pavilion will now host
players, umpires and visiting teams from
the hockey club’s seven sides throughout the
season. Match-day catering will be provided
by Diplocks Café, a local business that already
sponsors both clubs.
Club representatives have welcomed
the move as a positive example of local
organisations working together to enhance
facilities and create a more connected sporting
scene for the town.
In other news, at the club’s final game of the
season, young gun Monty was honoured with
the prestigious Dorothy Hobden Award for 2025
— a recognition given for a standout cricketing
contribution across the year.
Monty earned this award through his
unwavering commitment and dedication to
the game. Whether it’s early mornings or late
evenings, Monty has spent countless hours at
the cricket facility with his dad, embodying the
true spirit of hard work.
He has also shown incredible leadership
as captain of the U12s, always putting his
teammates first and leading by example. The
care, time, and thoughtfulness he gives to those
around him is a joy to witness — a true team
player both on and off the field.

Join us for
our next
event
Bowes House care home,
Hailsham
Supporting people with
advanced dementia
Wednesday 12th November, 2pm - 4pm
Join Alison Butler to find out more about how
the brain changes during the advanced stages of
dementia and how you can support your loved
with their changing physical and emotional
needs, and behaviours.
Trusted to care.
To book please call
01323 886719 or email
lisa.phillips@careuk.com

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