Hailsham News, January 2026, Issue 53

JANUARY 2026 | ISSUE 53

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2 NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news

WELCOME

AS WE turn the page on another

year, I would like to begin by wishing

all our readers a very happy, healthy

and successful New Year.

Across our communities, there is

always much to celebrate, much to

protect and, inevitably, challenges

to face. As ever, our aim is to report

honestly, fairly and locally on the

stories that matter most to you.

In this month’s edition, we are

proud to feature a fascinating look

at the essential restoration and

maintenance works recently completed

at Herstmonceux Castle. The project,

which has cost millions of pounds,

has been vital in safeguarding one

of Sussex’s most iconic and historic

landmarks for future generations.

Thanks to some truly striking images

and detailed insight into the scale of the

work involved, our feature offers a rare

glimpse behind the scenes of a complex

and carefully planned operation.

Local heritage plays an important

role in shaping our identity, and

stories like this remind us just how

much care, expertise and investment

goes into preserving the places that

define our landscape.

I attended so many community

events in December across the county

— it was great to see communities

coming together to celebrate Christmas

together. It was exhausting, but I tip

my hat to all the organisers who pull

these incredible events together.

We hope you were able to enjoy

a relaxing break over the festive

period and return to the New Year

feeling refreshed. We look forward

to reporting on another year of

challenges, achievements and

community stories as they unfold.

Thank you, as always, for your

continued support.

Paul Gibson, Group Editor

THE TEAM

PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR

paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

VIKTORIA COWLEY — FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS

viktoria@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

MIKE LEGG — SPORTS REPORTER

sports@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

DEAN COOK — PRODUCTION

design@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

CONTACT

ADVERTISING SALES — 01323 33 70 70

sales@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

Hailsham News is a publication by Regional

Media Group Ltd, a company registered in

England and Wales number: 13746177. We have

taken care to ensure that the information in this

newspaper is correct. Neither the publisher,

nor contributors can take responsibility for loss

or damage resulting from errors or omissions.

Hailsham News does not endorse the accuracy

of the advertisements or the quality of the

products/services being advertised.

Information provided by businesses and

community organisations are provided directly

by their own representatives; please direct any

queries or comments regarding content directly

to the organisation. Any opinion or views

expressed within this publication are solely

those of the author. © 2026: No part of this

newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole

without express permission of the editor.

Post box removals spark

anger in pre-Christmas rush

ROYAL Mail is rolling out thousands

of new solar-powered ‘postboxes

of the future’ across the UK – a

move that follows the covering

up of several traditional post

boxes in Hailsham just before

Christmas, which sparked anger

among residents.

Residents have reported post boxes

in The Avenue and Hawthylands

were covered over in the run-up to the

festive period, prompting complaints

from locals who said the timing could

not have been worse during one of the

busiest posting seasons of the year.

Royal Mail has now confirmed

it plans to install 3,500 of the newstyle

post boxes nationwide after

a successful pilot earlier this year,

marking the biggest redesign

of the iconic red post box in its

175-year history.

The modernised boxes will allow

customers to send and return labelled

parcels up to the size of a shoebox

directly from a post box for the first

time. Customers will also be able to

request proof of posting and track

parcels using the Royal Mail app.

Royal Mail says the changes reflect

a major shift in how people use the

postal service, with letters in decline

and parcel volumes continuing to

grow due to online shopping and

second-hand marketplaces.

The new post boxes feature a

barcode scanner which opens a

secure drop-down drawer for parcels,

a separate slot for letters, and a solar

panel mounted on top to power

the technology.

However, the redesign may also

spell the end of a much-loved

local tradition. Hailsham is home

to groups of Yarn Bombers, who

regularly decorate post boxes with

knitted and crocheted toppers to

mark Christmas, Remembrance

Day and other community events.

The addition of solar panels

means the new boxes cannot be

covered, bringing an end to the

colourful displays.

The new post boxes were piloted in

Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire

in April and are now being rolled

Core funding for orchards

GRANTS of up to £3,500 are being

offered to help communities

across the Wealden district to

create, restore, and enhance

community orchards.

The Wealden Community Orchard

Fund is part of Wealden District

Council’s wider work on climate

action, biodiversity recovery, and

community wellbeing. Community

orchards provide spaces for people

to connect with nature, learn new

skills, grow food, and strengthen

community ties.

The orchard fund is open to

a wide range of communityfocused

organisations which meet

eligibility criteria, this includes

community and voluntary groups,

community interest companies,

town and parish councils, local

schools, residents’ associations,

friends-of groups, environmental

or horticultural organisations, and

Post Box located in The Avenue

registered charities.

Projects may include planting new

orchards, expanding or enriching

existing ones, or bringing neglected

orchards back into community

use. Funding can also support

orchard-related community events

and educational activities such as

forest schools, as well as biodiversity

improvements like wildflower

planting or wildlife habitats.

The aim is to help communities

create shared outdoor spaces that

support nature, food growing,

climate action, and social wellbeing.

Councillor Paul Coleshill, Alliance

for Wealden said, “It’s fantastic to see

the success of the first round of the

Wealden Community Orchard Fund

and the enthusiasm it’s generated

across our towns and villages.

Orchards are more than just trees,

they’re places for people to connect,

learn, and take part in caring for

Post Box in Hawthylands

out across England, Scotland, Wales

and Northern Ireland, with major

cities among the first locations. Royal

Mail has not yet confirmed when or

where the new boxes will be installed

in Hailsham, or whether they will

replace those recently removed.

Jack Clarkson, Managing Director

of Out of Home and Commercial

Excellence at Royal Mail, said:

“We are all sending and returning

more parcels than ever before. This

trend will only continue as online

shopping shows no signs of slowing,

particularly with the boom of secondhand

marketplaces.

their local environment. We’re

delighted to be able to offer further

funding to help communities grow

greener together.”

Applications close on 30 January.

Funding decisions are expected to be

announced in February 2026, and all

funded projects must be completed

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

To write to the editor,

email: letters@hailsham.news

“There are 115,000 postboxes in

the UK located within half a mile of

98% of addresses, making them by

far the most convenient network

of parcel drop-off points in the UK.

Our message is clear: if you have

a Royal Mail label on your parcel,

and it fits, put it in a postbox and

we’ll do the rest.”

Royal Mail says the new parcel

post boxes form part of a wider

expansion of its network, which now

includes more than 23,500 locations

nationwide, including lockers, Post

Office branches, Collect+ stores and

customer service points.

by 1 March 2027.

Applicants are advised to read the

full Guidance Document before

starting their application. The

document can be found on the

council’s climate change hub or a

copy can be requested by emailing

the climate change team.

4 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Council staff awarded for long service

TWO members of staff at Hailsham

Town Council have been recognised

for their dedication to their roles

and the time spent with the council.

Hailsham Youth Service Manager

Andy Joyes was formally recognised

for over 20 years of exceptional

service to the town’s young people

and wider community. Mr Joyes

was recently presented with a

Certificate of Long Service and

commemorative gifts.

Since joining the Council in

1999, Mr Joyes has played a pivotal

role in developing and delivering

high-quality youth services

across Hailsham. His work has

encompassed the management of

youth programmes, coordination

of activities and outreach initiatives,

and the ongoing support of young

residents through safe, inclusive and

engaging opportunities.

Throughout his 26 years, Mr Joyes

has been instrumental in expanding

the Council’s youth service offering —

overseeing club sessions, community

projects and partnerships with

local organisations to ensure

that young people have access to

meaningful support and positive

experiences. His leadership has

helped shape a service recognised for

its consistency, creativity and strong

community value.

Emily Hastings, Corporate Services

Manager, said: “Andy’s dedication

to Hailsham’s young people is

From left: Andy Joyes with Town Clerk, John Harrison

truly inspiring. His commitment,

compassion and forward-thinking

approach have made a profound

impact on the lives of countless

residents over many years. The

Council is incredibly grateful

for his continued hard work

and leadership.”

Town Clerk John Harrison added:

“Andy’s 26 years of service represent

an outstanding achievement.

His ability to connect with young

people and deliver essential support

has enriched our community in

immeasurable ways. This recognition

is well deserved, and we thank him

sincerely for all he has done and

continues to do.”

Reflecting on the milestone, Andy

Joyes said: “It’s been an incredible

privilege to work with the young

people of Hailsham over the past

26 years. I’ve seen so many positive

changes and achievements, and

I’m proud to have played a part in

supporting the next generation. I’m

deeply grateful for this recognition

and look forward to continuing our

work in the years ahead.”

Phil Hobden, Warden for the

Common Pond in Bellbanks Road,

has also been formally recognised for

Phil Hobden receives his award

30 years of service to the community.

At a small presentation held in

December, Mr Hobden received

a Certificate of Long Service

along with an accompanying

gift from the Council (a Wilesco

Stationary Steam Engine from

Forest Classics), marking three

decades of commitment under the

Council’s employ.

Mr Hobden has served as Pond

Warden since the mid-1990s,

undertaking vital duties to ensure

the environmental health, safety

and long-term sustainability of one

of Hailsham’s most valued natural

landmarks. His work includes

regular pond maintenance, wildlife

monitoring, community engagement

and supporting conservation

improvements throughout the site.

Over the past year, Mr Hobden

has worked with colleagues and

project partners on several important

projects at the Common Pond,

including improvements to water

quality and bankside vegetation.

His knowledge and hands-on

approach have been instrumental in

maintaining the pond as a cherished

local amenity in recent decades.

Tony Lee, Operations and

Facilities Manager, praised Mr

Hobden’s dedication. He said:

“Phil’s contribution to the Common

Pond and the wider community

has been truly exceptional. His

knowledge, reliability and passion

for the environment have made

a lasting impact, and the Council

is incredibly grateful for the

commitment he has shown over the

last 30 years.”

Reflecting on his 30-year milestone,

Phil Hobden said: “I’ve always

taken great pride in looking after

the Common Pond and ensuring

it remains a place the whole

community can enjoy. It’s been

a privilege to work here for so

many years, and I’m grateful for

the recognition. I look forward to

continuing the work we’ve started

and supporting the pond’s future.”

Charity and energy

firm join forces to

help older people

this winter

INDEPENDENT Age, a national

charity focused on improving

the lives of older people facing

financial hardship, has partnered

with energy distribution network

operator UK Power Networks to

provide advice to older people in

the winter months.

In response to the freezing

temperatures across the country

Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive

of Independent Age, said: “With

rising energy costs and falling

temperatures, thousands of older

people in our community face

an impossible choice: heat their

homes or eat a hot meal. Last year,

Independent Age answered nearly

8,000 calls about Pension Credit — our

highest ever on this topic.

“Cold homes and inadequate food

put older people at serious risk of

ill-health during the winter months.

That’s why each year Independent

Age produces the Winterwise guide,

a free resource packed with practical

tips and information about financial

support to help older people stay

safe and well.”

The charity is also joining UKPN to

encourage anyone over State Pension

age to sign up to the Priority Service

Register, which ensures additional

assistance during power cuts.

If you, or someone you know, might

benefit from some extra support

this winter, visit independentage.

org or call 0800 319 6789 for your

free Winterwise guide. By spreading

the word, the charity hopes to make

this winter safer for countless older

people in the area.

New resources for

Mental Health announced

NEW resources to help people in

Sussex get support for their mental

health have been developed by NHS,

local authority, voluntary sector

organisations and people with

lived experience.

They aim to ensure that every

person in Sussex knows how to find

the right mental health information

and support, and when to get help,

with a focus on people who are

neurodivergent, digitally excluded or

may feel less confident using English.

The mental health signposting

resources have been translated into

five languages: Arabic, Farsi, Polish,

Bengali and Ukrainian.

The resources, which ask the

question ‘How Are You Really

Feeling?’ include guidance on when to

seek help and where to find free and

confidential mental health support

for adults aged 18 and over living

across Sussex. It brings together

information from local NHS services,

local authorities, community groups

and voluntary organisations, helping

people understand what support is

available and how to access it.

This includes the Staying Well

services, which offer same or nextday

mental health support to support

people experiencing a mental health

crisis, and Talking Therapies, a

self-referral service which supports

people with common mental health

problems like feelings of depression,

excessive worry or social anxiety.

People can also find information

about how to access help with issues

that can have a negative impact on

a person’s mental health, including

housing or financial worries.

To find out more and access the

mental health signposting resources,

visit: www.how-are-you-reallyfeeling-sussex.nhs.uk

Giles Store

Hailsham

Introducing our new services for Winter 2026

We now have more to offer you from your local store

Free Local Delivery: Orders over £25 delivered

free within a 2 mile radius via Snappy Shopper

Great Range: Everyday essentials, treats, and top brands,

in-store or delivered

Fresh Baked Goods: Artisan baked goods from

Sussex Kitchen, baked daily

Tasty Ready Meals: Delicious, chef-made dishes

from by Ruby

Value & Variety: A 2,000 sq ft store, supplied mainly by

Booker (part of Tesco), ensuring great prices

Hot Food & Drinks: Served from 7am, with the store

open until 9pm

Easy Parking & Outdoor Seating: Convenient on-site and

nearby parking, plus tables and chairs in our yard.

At Budgens, we’re your friendly,

fully stocked local store, offering

quality, value and convenience

close to home.

We’re proud to serve our

community and would love to see

you soon - whether you pop in for a

coffee, pick up your essentials, or

enjoy a doorstep delivery.

Thank you for supporting

your local store!

2,000 sq ft store

Vast range of products

Prepared lunches

All our deliveries are made by our

own staff, bringing you that local

community touch.

You’ll always pay the same prices

as instore*, with free delivery on

orders over £25 (or just £2.99

otherwise) - delivered within

30 - 60 MINUTES

and within a 2-mile radius.

Follow us on Facebook - ‘Giles Store - Budgens Hailsham’

for our announcements including exciting offers & value promotions.

*With the exception of tobacco all prices are identical to our in store prices.

Giles Store Budgens

84a London Road, Hailsham,

BN27 3AH

www.gilesstore.co.uk

6 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Proposals for zero

increase in Council Tax

WEALDEN District Council’s

Cabinet has proposed a freeze on

Council Tax for 2026/27 to help

many struggling households.

The freeze proposal comes from

a move from the council to support

residents with the continuing cost-ofliving

crisis. If agreed, residents will

see a zero percent rise to the council’s

element of the Council Tax next year,

which accounts for around 8% of

the overall bill.

Whilst Wealden collects the full

Council Tax from residents on behalf

of all the local authorities, once

Wealden council takes its share of

8%, the rest of the bill is split between

East Sussex County Council, Police

and Crime Commissioner, East

Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, and

parish or town councils.

Councillor Greg Collins, Alliance

for Wealden (Green Party) and

lead councillor for Finance, HR

and Customer Services, said, “For

many years this council has built

up reserves which were unspent

whilst, almost without exception,

increasing the burden on local

residents by increasing their

council tax. Today that changes.

A zero-tax rise is affordable and

does not jeopardise Wealden’s

future. We are using Wealden’s

reserves, whilst we still can,

to make the district a greener,

kinder, fairer place.”

The proposal will need to be fully

ratified at the next Full Council

meeting in February.

Charity and energy firm

join forces to help older

people this winter

INDEPENDENT

Age, a national

charity focused

on improving the

lives of older people

facing financial

hardship, has

partnered with

energy distribution

network operator

UK Power Networks

to provide advice

to older people in

the winter months.

In response to the freezing

temperatures across the country

Joanna Elson CBE, Chief Executive

of Independent Age, said: “With

rising energy costs and falling

temperatures, thousands of older

people in our community face

an impossible choice: heat their

homes or eat a hot meal. Last year,

Independent Age answered nearly

8,000 calls about Pension Credit — our

highest ever on this topic.

“Cold homes and inadequate food

put older people at serious risk of

ill-health during the winter months.

That’s why each year Independent

Age produces the

Winterwise guide[www.

independentage.org/

get-advice/winterwise],

a free resource packed

with practical tips and

information about

financial support to

help older people stay

safe and well.”

This year’s guide

was produced in

partnership with UK

Power Networks (UKPN), who own,

maintain, and deliver electricity

across London, the South East and

East of England.

The charity is also joining UKPN to

encourage anyone over State Pension

age to sign up to the Priority Service

Register, which ensures additional

assistance during power cuts.

If you, or someone you know, might

benefit from some extra support

this winter, visit independentage.

org or call 0800 319 6789 for your

free Winterwise guide. By spreading

the word, the charity hopes to make

this winter safer for countless older

people in the area.

Childminding

recruitment campaign

A campaign encouraging people to

consider becoming childminders

has been launched by East Sussex

County Council.

The Do Something Big — Work with

Small Children campaign aims to

highlight the benefits of childminding

as a career. The campaign is

supporting the Government’s ‘Be

part of something big’ initiative to

promote early years careers.

Childminding can mean anything

from working flexible, part time

hours to creating a business similar

to a small nursery. Childminders can

work at home, in a community hall,

or partner with a local school and

they can also employ assistants.

No formal qualifications are needed

and the county council can offer

support with training, registering

with Ofsted or a childminding

agency, and grant applications.

Councillor Bob Bowdler, the

council’s lead member for children

and families, said: “Childminding is

changing. Whether you’re looking

for a part-time opportunity or a fulltime

career, childminding offers a

rewarding career with the flexibility

to work around your family. It’s also a

chance to shape young lives and make

a difference to your local community.”

For more information about

becoming a childminder in East

Sussex, visit www.eastsussex.gov.

uk/jobs/become-a-childminder-1.

Alternatively, people can contact the

Childcare Support Team on 01323

463026 for an informal chat about

childminding as a family-friendly,

flexible career option.

Newspaper photos raise

funds for charities

PHOTOGRAPHS published in

Hailsham News have helped

raise valuable funds for local

good causes, thanks to readers

purchasing images from some of the

town’s biggest community events.

Throughout the past year, images

taken by Hailsham News editor and

photographer Paul Gibson, have been

made available online for readers to

download, keep or give as gifts.

The photographs capture popular

occasions such as the Hailsham

Bonfire celebrations, Remembrance

events and the town’s festive

Christmas Tractor Run.

Proceeds from the sale of these

images have now been passed on

to local charities and community

organisations.

Publisher Regional Media Group

has donated £35 to Hailsham Bonfire

Society, £105 to the Poppy Club,

and £25 to the Charles Hunt Centre

following last month’s Tractor Run.

The initiative has proved popular

with readers who want a lasting

memento of local events while

Recycle your Christmas tree

for St Wilfrid’s Hospice

ST Wilfrid’s Hospice has launched

its Christmas tree recycling

service to help raise vital funds

for patient care.

In return for a donation, a band

of hospice staff and volunteers

will collect your real Christmas

tree between Thursday 8th and

Sunday 11th January.

Areas covered include Eastbourne,

Seaford, Polegate, Hailsham,

Uckfield, Herstmonceux and

Heathfield. Online bookings

are open until 10pm on Tuesday

6th January to allow for the

routes to be planned.

Corporate Fundraiser, Debra

Elliott, said: “When we launched this

service in January 2025, it proved

to be more popular than we ever

expected, and we were amazed to

raise over £9,000.

“We’d like to thank our sponsors,

Enterprise Mobility and East Sussex

also supporting good causes

close to home.

Looking ahead, the 2026 Hailsham

Calendar will also support the

community, with £1 from every

calendar sold being donated to a

local cause. The beneficiary charity

is expected to be announced in

the coming months.

Readers wishing to view or purchase

photographs from recent events can

see the full portfolio online at

www.regionalmediagroupltd.

shootproof.com

College, as well as the volunteers

and businesses who have signed up

to help out with the collections — we

couldn’t do it without their support.”

For more information or to book a

collection, visit www.stwhospice.

org/tree, email corporates@

stwhospice.org or call 01323 434221.

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JANUARY 2026 NEWS 7

SCAN, KNOW & GO!

Every bus stop in East Sussex has a QR

code that can tell you everything you

need to know about your journey.

Simply scan the code with

your smart phone for

departure times and

service updates.

BEAUTIFUL LOCAL SCENES

ALL YEAR ROUND

£1.00 FROM EVERY

SALE DONATED

TO CHARITY

The 2026 Hailsham Calendar is now available

with FREE local delivery

This A4 calendar is an amazing roundup of photos we’ve

taken throughout the year in a glossy flip planner.

Order online today for only £8.99 or pick up a copy from

Dippy Doodah’s on Hailsham High Street today.

We’ve only printed 100 copies, so be quick!

Visit https://bit.ly/Hailsham-Calendar-2026 or scan

the QR code for free local delivery.

8 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Herstmonceux Castle

New chapter begins for

Herstmonceux Castle

after multi-million

pound restoration

BY DOMINIQUE AYLING

HERSTMONCEUX Castle has

now fully reopened to the public

following a restoration project

costing more than £3 million.

Scaffolding has been removed, and

the castle’s south elevation is finally

on display in all its full glory.

The completed works include

expertly rebuilt parapet walls on

the gatehouse, replacement stone

corbels, meticulous brickwork

repairs, and the installation of new

roof coverings and rainwater goods.

As part of the painstaking

process, original brickwork was

carefully dismantled, set aside and

reinstated to retain the historic

character of the castle.

Original flooring was replaced

throughout the castle, and cracks

were repaired both inside and outside

of the building.

The 15th Century moated castle

was forced to close due to structural

safety concerns discovered while

roof repairs were carried out in 2023,

meaning owners Queen’s University

and Bader College’s students

and staff had to return home to

Ontario, Canada.

Matthew Evans, Provost and

Vice-Principal (Academic), Queen’s

University (Canada), who has

responsibility for the Estate, told

us: “While a £3m-plus renovation

inevitably presented challenges,

we chose to see it as an opportunity

for reinvention. We’ve used this

period to build a more sustainable

future for the Estate, creating new

Gatehouse from east after the project

revenue streams and reimagining our

educational offering. The completion

of these works marks an exciting new

chapter for Herstmonceux Castle and

Bader College.”

There are now plans to welcome

students back from not only Canada,

but also other parts of the world, as

well as allowing visitors to tour the

castle and grounds until it closes for

the winter break on December 19.

The castle will reopen on January 5

for members, and possibly the wider

public depending on demand.

Mr Evans added: “With the

restoration work complete and the

castle looking its best, we want to

give as many people as possible the

chance to enjoy it this autumn. We’ve

listened to feedback and are delighted

to extend public access through

December. We encourage everyone

to come and see the results of the

conservation project against the

beautiful backdrop of our gardens.”

“The successful completion of this

important project secures the future

of Herstmonceux Castle and allows

us to move forward fully with a new

educational programme as well as

our public and private events.”

The Estate is looking forward

to a busy 2026. This year, online

ticket sales increased 35% with

annual visitor numbers estimated

at around 30,000.

Visitors will be able to learn more

about the restoration process at an

exhibition in the castle grounds,

while the impressive building

will continue to host events,

exhibitions and weddings.

Couples can celebrate their

marriage in the castle’s spectacular

ballroom, beautiful period gardens

and enclosed courtyard, providing

a breathtaking backdrop to

their special day.

Indeed, keeping the castle running

smoothly is a big operation.

“We have a dedicated team who

work to maintain the Estate —

gardeners and groundskeepers,

security and maintenance staff,

The castle before the works began Stephen Hawkin at Herstmonceux Castle in 1961


Elizabethan bay ceiling before the works

Improved and more stable brickwork

The renovated Elizabethan bay ceiling

Southeast tower cracking before the works

tour guides, reception, and many

volunteers,” said Mr Evans.

“Considerable time and effort is

required to ensure the castle and its

gardens, along with accommodation

spaces in the separate buildings,

are looking their best and all

runs smoothly.”

The Herstmonceux Castle

restoration project team was led

by Gould Baxter Architects and

Surveyors, main contractors Valley

Builders and specialist craftspeople

from Archer Stone Restoration.

Michael Doherty, Partner at Gould

Baxter said: “We are immensely

proud to have reached this point. The

completion of these works not only

addresses the structural concerns

with the gatehouse parapets but

also reveals the true splendour of

the castle’s south wing. The quality

of the craftsmanship is a testament

to the skill and dedication of

everyone involved.”

The castle was last renovated back

in the 1920s, and it’s those renovations

that the team’s structural engineers

say caused the problems.

Contractors used state-of-theart

3D modelling to identify what

repairs were needed whilst strict

archaeological recordings took

place during the works. Special

conditions had to be created to

allow workers to use lime water

mortar, which will only set in certain

temperatures. This presented the

team with many challenges whilst

the renovations took place over

the winter months.

Engineers tackled structural

concerns with the gatehouse and

parapets, cracking throughout

the towers, decay of stone and

brickwork, damp and defective

windows and roofs.

Now plans are afoot to make

Herstmonceux Castle and Gardens a

top East Sussex attraction with a new

farm shop, accommodation, cafe,

retreats, new membership options,

longer opening and land renovation.

Over the last several years, the

University has made substantial

investments into the castle’s

infrastructure and facilities, including

roof and window repairs, installation

of energy-efficient heat pumps, flood

management system upgrades and

replacement of the water treatment

system and heating oil tank.

Students and guests will also

enjoy enhanced facilities with new

science laboratories, renovated

classrooms and library and

modernised washrooms.

They are in good company:

Stephen Hawking spent time at

the Estate’s Observatory Science

Centre studying astronomy

(pictured sitting in front of castle

on steps, 1961).

The Science Centre’s future

looked in doubt when it was told

last year its lease would not be

extended past 2026; but bosses are

in talks to keep the much-loved

educational facility open.

Construction of the castle began

in 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes and

remained in the Fiennes family for

several generations before passing

through various owners in the 18th

century and falling into disrepair.

Restoration began in 1911 and

was continued by Sir Paul Latham

throughout the 1920s. The gardens

are listed as Grade II on the Register

of Historic Parks and Gardens.

Visit: herstmonceux-castle.com

or call 01323 833816 for bookings

or tickets.

Herstmonceux Castle renovation team

Gatehouse west parapet prior

10

JANUARY 2026


Scouts raise cash and

donations for Foodbank

THE 2nd Willingdon Beaver

Scouts have proved that even the

smallest people can make the

biggest difference, after raising

an impressive £175 for the local

foodbank through a week of

chores, challenges and brilliant

acts of kindness.

The colony were set the task of

earning ‘a few pounds’ at home by

helping out – from feeding pets and

taking the bins out, to sponsored

silences, tidying bedrooms and even

learning to make their own drinks.

But true to Beaver style, many

went above and beyond. One Beaver

donated their tooth-fairy money,

while others raised and contributed

as much as £30 each.

Beaver Leader Paula said: “I’m so

proud of every single Beaver. They

threw themselves into the challenge

with such enthusiasm and generosity.

They really lived up to their promise

to ‘do their best’ and to ‘be kind and

helpful’ — and the results speak

for themselves.”

With £175 to spend, the Beavers

used a list provided by the foodbank

to choose exactly what was most

needed. Thanks to the impressive

total, they were also able to add some

more costly items that aren’t often

donated, including advent calendars

to help spread a little festive joy. The

Foodbank confirmed that the Beavers

purchased 102kg of food!

The response from the foodbank

team was heartfelt. Julie Coates

Hailsham Foodbank Manager said:

“We were genuinely moved by the

Beavers’ generosity. Their donation

in a single evening exceeded the

weight of a lot of our Harvest

Festival collections.”

The 2nd Willingdon Beavers’

efforts show what community spirit

looks like – kindness, teamwork and

the courage to make a difference.

A small challenge turned into

something truly impactful and the

young Beavers should feel incredibly

proud of the joy they’ll bring to local

families this winter.

To find out more about the

Foodbanks valuable work, where to

donate and what the most needed

items are visit: www.hailsham.

foodbank.org.uk.

Have your say on the future of our town!

Comment on the new Neighbourhood Plan

The Neighbourhood Plan will help shape how Hailsham

changes and evolves over the next fifteen years. It will

help guide planning decisions.

Whether you are a resident, business owner, or simply

care about the future of the town, please let us know

what you think about the Neighbourhood Plan.

Consultation runs from 3rd January to 14th February.

You can view and respond online, and visit our drop-in

events to find out more.

https://www.hailsham-tc.gov.uk

SCAN FOR

INFO

Scan the QR Code

for the Town Council

website where you

can view the Plan and

the Housing Survey

Events

Wednesday 14th January 2026:

10.30 - 12 noon Railway Club, Station Youth Cente,

Western Road

2.00 - 4.00pm James West Centre, Brunel Drive

6.00 - 7.30pm Dippy Doodah’s Cafe, 52 High St

Wednesday 21st January 2026:

10.30 - 12 noon James West Centre, Brunel Drive

2.00 - 4.00pm Members Room, Hailsham Town

Council, Market Street

6.00 - 7.30pm Dippy Doodah’s Cafe, 52 High St

Wednesday 28th January 2026:

5.00 - 6.30pm Wealden Civic Hall, Vicarage Lane

Why attend?

Please also

complete our Housing

Needs Survey

Live or work in Hailsham? Have family ties here?

We need your voice!

High house prices and a shortage of affordable homes

are affecting local people.

Tell us what homes Hailsham really needs - size, type,

and tenure.

Your views will help us push for the right homes for

young families, first-time buyers, and older residents

looking to downsize.

Everyone is encouraged to take part - even if you’re not

looking to move.

Hailsham

TOWN COUNCIL

• Have your say on the future of Hailsham

• Help influence future planning decisions

• Get informed on progress of the Plan

• Speak with members of the Town Council

• Let us know if the Plan is heading in the right

direction

• Suggest ideas for infrastructure improvements

It takes just 10 minutes and is available online.

Please complete the survey by 30th January.

https://www.hailsham-tc.gov.uk

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JANUARY 2026 11

READER COMPETITION

Win a pair of tickets for

Eastbourne’s Top Hat

Hailsham News is giving away

TWO pairs of tickets to the

incredible Top Hat production

which is coming to the Congress

Theatre in Feburary.

There may be trouble ahead, But

while there’s moonlight, and music,

And love, and romance… Let’s face

the music and dance.

You’re invited to the musical

equivalent of the finest vintage

champagne. Effervescent, elegant

and exhilarating.

Top Hat is a heady romantic cocktail

laced with sparklingly witty dialogue,

stunning choreography, lavish sets

and gorgeous costumes. Irving

Berlin’s irresistible score includes

some of Hollywood’s greatest songs,

the immortal Cheek to Cheek,

Let’s Face the Music and Dance,

Top Hat White Tie and Tails and

Puttin’ on the Ritz.

When Broadway star Jerry Travers

(Phillip Attmore — Hello Dolly,

Broadway) arrives in London to

open a new show, he crosses paths

with model Dale Tremont (Lucy St.

Louis — Wicked, West End), whose

beauty sleep is rudely interrupted

by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel

suite above hers.

Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to

abandon his bachelor life to win

her — but the path of true love never

does run smooth. Especially since

Dale has mistaken Jerry for his

hapless producer Horace, who’s

trying to avoid the wrath of his

formidable wife Madge, and Dale’s

own fiery Italian admirer is planning

a trip to Venice for her to showcase

his couture gowns…

Based on the classic 1935 film which

starred Fred Astaire and Ginger

Rogers, the stage adaptation’s West

End premiere won the 2013 Olivier

Award for Best New Musical and

the Evening Standard Award for

Best Night Out and comes to the

Eastbourne stage 17-21 February 2026

for one week only!

To be in with the chance to win a pair

of tickets, simply answer the question

below and email your answer to

comps@hailsham.news by 9pm on

Thursday, 15th January 2026.

Which of the following famous

songs is featured in Top Hat?

• A) Over the Rainbow

• B) Cheek to Cheek

• C) Anything Goes

• D) Moon River

Winners will be notified by email on

Friday 15th January, and will be able

to choose the performance date they

wish to attend.

COME AND TRY THE BEST IN TOWN!

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12 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


The three brothers during the challenge

Gruelling trek for 10-yearold

to buy toys for children

escaping domestic abuse

A determined 10-year-old from

Hailsham, along with his brothers,

faced challenging trials to win food

as part of a three-day trek across

the Ashdown Forest, to raise funds

to buy toys for children in women’s

refuges this Christmas.

The trek idea came from youngest

brother, Oakley MacDiarmid aged

10, who since he was just 8 years,

has been a young ambassador for

the children’s charity, KidsOut,

which provides wellbeing

experiences for over 21,000 children

annually who have witnessed or

experienced domestic abuse and find

safety in refuges.

Oakley has previously raised

thousands of pounds to help the

children, who usually have to leave

everything they own behind them,

including their toys, when they flee

their homes. His aim each year, to

buy new toys for them so they have

something to open on Christmas Day.

This year, Oakley, from Lewes

Old Grammar School, talked his

two brothers into joining him.

Blindfolded adventures during the challenge

Daniel, known as “Shrimpy” (17)

also attending the same school, and

Calvin (22), this latest challenge tested

them all to the maximum. All three

were stripped of their phones and

electronic devices for the duration of

the trek, a challenge in itself for the

two older brothers.

In December, the brothers

embarked on the ambitious journey

with only a map, a compass, tent and

sleeping bags which they needed

to carry throughout the trek. They

navigated themselves to check points

Oakley having his head shaved for charity

manned by Andy Camis from E3

Adventures, who runs an outdoor

activity centre at Deersleap Park

in East Sussex.

Guiding them was adventurer

and mountain leader, Jonathan

Kattenberg, who spends much of

his time leading treks for adults

to Kilimanjaro and Everest Base

camps. Jonathan, who is currently

training for a solo trek to the South

Pole in 2026, said that he was excited

to mentor the brothers during this

unique endeavour.

Between Jonathan, Andy, and the

brothers’ father, also called Daniel,

they designed challenges that helped

them learn valuable survival skills

whilst relying on each other to win

their daily rations of food.

The brothers’ father said, “I am

incredibly proud of my sons. This

challenge was Oakley’s idea, and he

quickly roped in his brothers, whose

main dread was the thought of losing

their phones. I have worked closely

with Jonathan and Andy to create

challenges that align with each of

their strengths.

His mother, Becky, commented:

“Oakley was eager to learn navigation

and survival skills and did not want to

be outdone by his big brothers.”

Speaking on the brothers’

commitment, Jonathan Kattenberg

said, “These three lads have truly

inspired me with their passion for

helping children who have faced

difficult circumstances. This was

not going to be an easy trek. The

brothers have made it quite clear that

they want to be truly challenged and

learn new skills.

“None of the brothers knew what

they would face when they set off

somewhere in the forest. They

learned to navigate their way to

checkpoints manned by Andy Camis,

culminating on the final day, where

they were put through a number of

other challenges which would force

the brothers to work together to

eat that night.”

Andy Camis of E3 Adventures said,

“The brothers acquired important

survival skills during this endeavour.

They did not have the luxury of a hotel

stay despite the weather, it was just

tents and sleeping bags, come rain,

wind, or shine. A ‘jungle’ experience

in the heart of Sussex.”

Following completing the trek,

Oakley and his parents will head to

buy toys for the children in refuges

using the funds raised through their

efforts. “He manages to haggle with

store owners to get discounts on the

toys,” said his father.

I keep well back as he is far better

at it than I am. Two years ago, when

Oakley was only 8 and Shrimpy, 15,

they both shaved their hair off to raise

money for children in refuge. Whilst

I would like to think we have raised

good kids who care about others,

it’s been them that always made the

decision to help children who aren’t

so lucky as them. That’s what makes

us so proud of them.”

Jonathan Kattenberg documented

the brothers’ journey, sharing

their experiences live on KidsOut’s

social media channels. The charity

runs the famous Giving Tree

Christmas toy collection annual

event. A list of points where you

can donate toys, or buy toys from

the charity’s website which will be

delivered to a child on your behalf,

can be found at www.kidsout.org.uk

To support Oakley’s cause to help

vulnerable children living in refuges

in Sussex, Search: Oakley’s Xmas

Challenge on Just Giving.

Oakley Oakley with the toys he purchased for the cause two years ago Oakley posing as an ‘old man’ to raise money

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JANUARY 2026 REGULARS 13

KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

GARDEN REOPENS WED 25 FEBRUARY 2026

For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk

and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden

“Nature has undoubtedly mastered the art of winter gardening and even the most experienced gardener can learn from the unrestrained beauty

around them.” — Vincent A. Simeone

v

Greetings everyone, I do hope that the

summer has been good to you all.

I’m writing to you from Bates Green

Garden during the quietest month of the

year. January sees our gates closed to

the public, but while visitors are away,

the Garden is very much alive — resting,

renewing, and quietly inviting wildlife to

seek sanctuary and sustenance. This time

of reflection gives us all space to think

about how our gardens and green spaces,

no matter what their size, can become

havens for both Nature and people. As we

turn the calendar to a new year, it’s the

perfect moment to set good intentions

that will benefit birds, hedgehogs,

badgers, newts, and ourselves.

Here are five New Year’s resolutions I

encourage every gardener to consider for

a wilder, more welcoming garden in 2026.

Resolution 1: Create Bird-Friendly

Spaces — Our cherished birds bring colour,

movement, and song to our gardens,

especially through the colder months.

This year, consider adding a variety

of feeders — offering seeds, suet, and

peanuts — to support them when food is

scarce. Place feeders near shrubs or small

trees to give birds a quick escape from

predators. Even better, plant native berryproducing

shrubs like holly or hawthorn

and let any attractive seedheads stand

through winter for natural foraging. Don’t

forget to provide clean, fresh water, as

frozen ponds and puddles can leave birds

thirsty. Lastly, install a few nesting boxes

before spring arrives; many species start

scouting sites surprisingly early.

Resolution 2: Welcome Hedgehogs

— Few sights are as heartwarming as a

hedgehog shuffling through the dusk.

Sadly, these helpful insect-eaters are in

decline, but a few simple steps can make

your garden a safe haven. Pile up logs,

leaves, and twigs in a quiet corner for a

cosy winter nest and a welcoming buffet

of insects come spring. If your garden is

fenced, create a small “hedgehog highway”

hole (13 x 13cms) at the base — this helps

them to roam safely in search of mates

and food. Most importantly, avoid using

slug pellets and chemicals, as these will

harm hedgehogs and their food sources.

Instead, let nature balance itself; you’ll

find that hedgehogs are excellent natural

pest controllers.

Resolution 3: Support Badgers and

Newts — Badgers and newts hold a

special place in my heart, and I am

committed to doing all I can to support

Photos: John Glover

their survival.

They both thrive in gardens that

offer corridors to wilder spaces and

undisturbed spots to retreat. If you have

room, leave a strip of your garden a

little untamed — long grass, wildflowers,

and piles of stone or wood create

perfect cover. For newts, a small pond

(even a sturdy sunken tub will do) is a

game-changer, especially if you avoid

stocking it with fish. Plant native aquatic

plants and allow part of the edge to stay

muddy and sloping for wildlife access.

Badgers appreciate a mix of foraging

areas and secluded corners, so try not

to tidy everywhere. Leaving these wild

patches can feel like resisting the urge for

perfection — but the reward is the thrill

of knowing your garden is a lifeline for

local wildlife.

Resolution 4: Design for Human Peace

and Comfort — While we’re welcoming

wildlife, let’s also resolve to make our

gardens more inviting for people. In

today’s crazy world, a garden is a true

sanctuary — offering peace, tranquility,

and space to unwind. Think about

adding a bench or seat beneath a tree

or beside swaying grasses, where you

can sit pondering the gentle sound of

plants moving softly in the breeze. If

your garden is sunny, plant a small tree

or install a pergola for dappled shade and

cool respite on hot afternoons. Paths that

meander through borders encourage slow,

mindful walks. By thoughtfully placing

seating and shade, you create places

to pause, reflect, and feel restored — no

matter the season.

Resolution 5: Plant for Winter Interest

— Gardens are far from dull in winter. By

choosing plants with strong structure,

evergreen foliage, or winter-flowering

blooms, you’ll ensure there’s always

something to catch the eye. Try witch

hazel, (Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Arnold

Promise’ is a fragrant gorgeously spidery

one), or colourful dogwoods like Cornus

alba ‘Sibirica’ with its bright crimson

stems. Evergreen shrubs like holly or

pittosporum provide backbone and

shelter for wildlife, while ornamental

grasses, consider Stipa gigantea, sway

beautifully in the slightest breeze.

Seedheads left standing can sparkle with

morning dew and provide food for birds.

Designing for winter interest isn’t just for

wildlife it lifts our spirits, too, and keeps

the garden a source of beauty even when

the days are short.

As we look forward to another year

at Bates Green Garden, I invite you to

embrace these resolutions and witness

how small changes can transform your

own patch of this earth. By opening our

gardens to nature and nurturing our

own well-being, we create a place where

both people and wildlife can flourish —

through every season.

I wish you all a greener, wilder, and

joyful 2026 in your gardens, balconies,

allotments and parks.

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14 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Full House as

Hailsham film ‘Comic’

premieres at Pavilion

PHOTOS BY PAUL GIBSON

A packed Hailsham Pavilion played

host to the premiere of locally

made short film Comic recently

(December 15), as around 200

people gathered to celebrate the

youth-led production.

Cast, crew, friends and family

filled the venue for the first

public screening of the 20-minute

film, created by Shining Knight

Productions, a community group

dedicated to giving children and

young people free, hands-on

experience in filmmaking.

Among those attending the

premiere was Ryan Whittle, a former

Hailsham School student who has

gone on to enjoy success on the West

End stage, most recently playing

England captain Harry Kane in the hit

production Dear England.

The premiere marked a major

milestone for the project, which

has been made entirely locally and

entirely on a voluntary basis, with

nobody involved receiving payment

for their time. Applause followed the

screening as the audience praised

the film’s performances, production

quality and powerful original score.

Following the screening, the

celebrations continued with an

after-show party at Rustico, where

everyone involved in the project

was treated to unlimited pizza in

recognition of their hard work

and commitment.

Comic has now been submitted

to film festivals across the globe,

including Cannes, as the group looks

to take its work to an international

audience while continuing to put

Hailsham firmly on the creative map.

The film also features an original

score by Eastbourne-based composer

David Creighton, who joined the

project earlier this year after learning

about Shining Knight Productions

through Eastbourne News coverage.

His bespoke music has been

described by the team as a major

creative boost, adding emotional

depth and polish to the finished film.

Shining Knight Productions,

created by Gareth Jones and Paul

Simmons, has built a growing

reputation for nurturing young

talent both in front of and behind

the camera, with all opportunities

offered free of charge and focused

on collaboration, creativity and

confidence-building.

For more information about Shining

Knight Productions, email: hello@

shiningknightproductions.org.


Composer David Creighton

Ryan Whittle and Gareth Jones

16 REGULARS

JANUARY 2026


A MATTER OF TASTE

We send members of the team to check out local pubs, cafes and restaurants to give you an honest review.

These visits are not pre-arranged, and the venues do not know they are reviewing the food and drink!

HEARTY PIES AND HOMELY

SERVICE AT THE BULL INN

originating in the docks of London, then

spreading to the South and East London

with the first M.Manze shop opening in

Bermondsey in 1892.

It’s a minced beef, cold water pie

pastry, with two types of pastry used.

The bottom or base should be suet

pastry, and the top can be rough puff or

short, filled with minced beef and gravy.

The pies are traditionally served upside

down, covered with Liquor which is a

light parsley sauce and mashed potatoes.

My double pie and mash arrived with

the top of the pastry being crisp, the

gravy mince running out as I cut it with

BY GARY VAN DEN BUSSCHE

THE BULL INN in St Leonards is in fact

just outside Bexhill, but is a traditional

pub specialising in pies.

The restaurant menu is what you

would expect from a traditional pub

menu, such as Scampi, Fish N Chips,

Lamb Shank, Lasagne, Gammon steak,

pasta bakes and a lot more with most

mains under £15, so great value.

This pub looks quite traditional and has

been run by Peter and Pauline for over

seven years. The pub is very popular

with the locals who dine here regularly.

The service by the owner’s daughter

was very friendly and helpful.

My friend started with a Prawn

cocktail, which looked as good as I’m

sure it tasted; she really enjoyed it.

I ordered the South Londoners’ favourite

M.Manze’s Pie, Mash with Liquor.

Pie & Mash is a cockney classic

the liquor served on the side, it was

delicious and bringing back memories of

traveling from my home in the west end

of London to be taken to a street market

in the south of London and eating this

London classic in a Pie and Mash shop.

As the pub specialises in pies and

actually has a pie board to choose from,

my friend thought she’d better choose

one too. She selected the Sausage,

Onion pie. It came with a choice of peas,

carrots, cabbage or baked beans and

either mash or chips.

The pie was a slice, maybe that’s

where the expression ‘a slice of the pie’

comes from? It was accompanied by

vegetables and chips.

The pie had a nice taste of sage running

through it, which she enjoyed. She was

expecting a whole pie, but the portion

was a good size.

The bill for two mains and a starter,

with a tip, was £46.

Nothing fancy here, but their clientele

love what they are getting — traditional,

honest pub food served with a

friendly smile.

They are open for lunch and dinner

every day and often host quiz and

karaoke nights to rock n roll bingo.

There is a nice beer garden and a large

car park to the rear of the pub. Make

sure you book! Food serving times

(last orders on food 15 mins before the

kitchen closes and 30 mins on Sundays).

Happy New Year, everyone — may

2026 bring you some delicious food!

530 Bexhill Road,

St Leonards on Sea, TN38 8AY

01424 424 984.

www.bullstleonards.co.uk

FIRE AND LEGO WALK

28 MARCH 2026

MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR THE TOWN!

Hailsham Lions in association with UK

Firewalk are hosting an exciting Fire and

Lego Walk on 28 March 2026.

The Lions are a well established and much loved

charity, while UK Firewalk is a trusted leader in

this extraordinary adventure, having twenty years

of experience and over one thousand successful

events.

Entries for this early evening event are now invited

to raise money for a charity or group of choice. Or

just for the fun of it! Registration is £100, with a

deposit of £50 to be made at the time of

registration. The balance to be paid by

28 February 2026.

Included in the registration fee is a free pitch for

participating charities, and a free t-shirt for all.

Training will also be given before the walk.

At least six members of the Hailsham Club, including

the president, have already registered to take

part in the evening’s fun. Hailsham FM will provide

the music, the market cafe will be serving hot food,

and a variety of stalls will welcome visitors.

Registration forms, sponsorship forms (if

required) and further information contact

Geraldine Gurr on 0345 833 9828 or

email: geraldine.gurr@btinternet.com


FOSTER CARERS LOOK LIKE YOU

LIGHTHOUSE FOSTERING OPENS NEW OFFICE IN EAST SUSSEX

Lighthouse Fostering is proud to announce the opening of our new East

Sussex office in Heathfield, strengthening our commitment to supporting

Foster Carers across the county.

For more than ten years, we’ve provided our carers with 24/7 support, specialist

training, competitive pay, and a dedicated team that ensures no one faces

challenges alone.

Our new office allows us to be even closer to the incredible people who open

their homes and hearts to children in need. Right now in East Sussex, children

urgently need safe, stable, and nurturing homes.

If you have a spare bedroom and the desire to make a difference, you could

transform a child’s life.

If you’re ready to explore fostering — or simply want to learn more — Lighthouse

Fostering is here to guide you every step of the way.

For more details visit our website

lighthousefostering.co.uk or call us on 01424 32002.

www.hailshamjewellers.co.uk

36 High Street,

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18 TRAVEL

JANUARY 2026


modern architecture and prime

location but also for its commitment

to sustainability. The hotel is a sleek,

glass- fronted oasis, just minutes from

Playa del Duque, designed with both

families and adults-only travellers

in mind. The GF Victoria hotel in

Costa Adeje has three restaurants.

These include Chaboco (a main

restaurant with buffet), Donaire (a

la carte restaurant with Canarian

cuisine), and Amaina (a varied menu

restaurant) situated adjacent to one of

the main pools.

Its split-zoned layout includes

the Zambra Sky Bar and a

stunning adults-only glass pool

that hovers dramatically above

the front of the building, while

family-friendly areas feature a

water park and surf simulator.

The spa, with its Himalayan salt

room and hydrotherapy pools, is a

destination in itself.

Discovering Costa Adeje,

Tenerife’s Chic Escape

BY DAVID POWELL

TENERIFE is famed for its dramatic

volcanoes and lively resorts but

tucked away on the island’s sundrenched

southwest coast lies Costa

Adeje — here I found a destination

that’s mastered the balance

between indulgent relaxation and

coastal charm.

Glistening Atlantic views meet stylish

promenades, golden beaches and a

dining scene that confidently rivals

mainland Europe. For British travellers

like me in search of winter warmth

Costa Adeje offers an elegant choice

WHERE STYLE

MEETS THE SEA

Costa Adeje definitely has an upmarket

feel — clean boulevards lined with

palm trees, designer boutiques in

the sleek Plaza del Duque shopping

centre and refined restaurants. It’s no

accident that this area attracts both

discerning travellers and sunseekers

who want a little more than all-day fryups

and noisy bars.

Playa del Duque is the beach

that most encapsulates this spirit.

With soft golden sand (shipped in

of course) and a relaxed, almost

exclusive atmosphere, it’s ideal

for leisurely days lounging under

parasols or dipping into the warm,

turquoise waters.

Adventure is never far either.

Whale watching trips depart

daily from nearby Puerto Colón

marina, where visitors can spot

pilot whales and bottlenose

dolphins all year round, thanks to

Tenerife’s rich marine ecosystem.

The island’s star attraction, Teide

National Park, is just over an hour’s

drive away. A cable car whisks

you most of the way up to the top

of Spain’s highest peak, Mount

Teide, where stark landscapes

and dramatic views offer a surreal

contrast to the beach scenes below. A

great day out.

EAT AND DRINK

Costa Adeje’s food scene is a particular

delight, with everything from

traditional guachinches (rustic local

eateries) to high-end dining with

Michelin stars. British tourists will

also appreciate how welcoming the

region is to families and couples alike.

There’s something incredibly easy

about holidaying in Costa Adeje, the

infrastructure is excellent, English is

widely spoken, and it’s only a fourand-a-

half-hour flight from London.

STAYING AT GF

VICTORIA HOTEL

My chosen hotel was the 5-star GF

Victoria right in the heart of Costa

Adeje. Among the many luxury

hotels in Costa Adeje, GF Victoria

stood out for me, not only for its

BEYOND THE SUNBED

For those who like to venture out,

Costa Adeje’s location is perfect

for exploring Tenerife’s diverse

landscapes. Head north to the cobbled

streets of La Orotava, where traditional

Canarian balconies drip with flowers,

or to Garachico, a town rebuilt after a

volcanic eruption and now home to

stunning natural rock pools.

Golfers can enjoy lush fairways

with Atlantic backdrops at Golf Costa

Adeje, while hikers can take to the

Barranco del Infierno, a dramatic

ravine with a guided trail leading

to the island’s highest waterfall.

For a cultural twist, the Casa Fuert

ruins offer a glimpse into Tenerife’s

colonial past.

And then, of course, there are the

sunsets. Nowhere does them quite

like Costa Adeje, especially if you’re

watching from a clifftop bar in La

Caleta, sipping a local wine as the sun

slips into the sea.

Costa Adeje is more than just a

sunny getaway, it’s a polished yet

authentic slice of Tenerife that caters

to holidaymakers looking for both

relaxation and refinement. With

its blend of coastal beauty, smart

hotels like GF Victoria, and a dining

scene that keeps getting better, it’s no

wonder many first-time visitors soon

become regulars.

Whether you’re heading there for

the sun, the sea, or simply a break

from the everyday, Costa Adeje

delivers — with style.

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JANUARY 2026 REGULARS 19

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LAURIE’S POEM CORNER

A5 a22/05/2024 1 24/01/2023 16:15:43

18 th Hastings

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Piano Competition

26 February – 7 March 2026

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My poem offering this month is one of my sardonic jousts, and this time aimed

primarily at some Facebook users.

Now I have nothing against this social media site as it has found some lost or long

time ago friends for me, among other things, but like all wide reaching platforms it

can have some amusing results.

I was discussing one such trend in 2016 with a local radio presenter friend who

challenged me to write a poem on the subject, and so I did.

The subject? Well it is on the the trend of people insisting on taking photos of their food and meals,

even including the left overs with all the half chewed or part eaten scraps. Poem fodder indeed.

Thus in my 4th book “Life Scene in Verse” came my acceptance of the offered challenge, and I read

it live on the radio as “Tripe and Onions”. A good old style meal that, and so chosen to aid my facetious

consideration of this subject. I hope you find it amusing as well, for here comes “Tripe and Onions”...

Tripe and onions, bangers and mash

Even spaghetti bog as well,

These are meals we love to have

But why do we have a need to tell

About everything we eat and drink

On news and social media’s view?

For if that is not all enough

We have to see photos of it too.

Here is our lovely meal just served

Doesn’t it all look rather grand,

With a photo of smiling faces

Just for fun you understand?

So now a full view of ordered meal

To be scoffed by the wild rovers,

And yes that we can just about take

But not the photos of your left overs.

TRIPE AND ONIONS

With shots of half eaten bits of food

Or perhaps a plate that’s almost clean.

As it was the best food ever you said,

As if we had all never been

Out for a meal or even a banquet

As that’s how your description seems,

To us spectators on media logged

And seeing everybody’s dreams.

Though I must admit to my cynicism

Like Mister Shakespeare’s touch.

For if everything is so wonderful

Why do you have to say so much

About the very best of food

That only you seem to have had?

So come on you can’t really believe,

We don’t all think you a trifle mad?

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To purchase Laurie’s books, visit www.lauriewilkinson.com

20 MOTORING

JANUARY 2026


Elon, watch out,

there’s an MG IM6 about

REVIEW AND PHOTOS

BY PAUL GIBSON

THE MG IM6 Launch Edition is a

bold statement from the British-

Chinese marque, and after spending

four days behind the wheel of the

Performance model, it’s clear that

MG is gunning directly at Tesla.

With its striking styling, innovative

tech and impressive performance,

the IM6 isn’t just another electric

SUV, it’s a genuine contender in

the EV market and one that could

leave its competition rethinking

their approach.

From the moment you lay eyes on

the IM6, it’s clear MG has prioritised

looks. In my opinion, it’s more

head-turning than anything in the

current Tesla range. The Launch

Edition features a muscular, elegant

design that manages to look sporty

without resorting to gimmicks. Its

proportions are well judged, giving

it a presence that feels substantial

without being bulky.

CABIN COMFORT

Step inside, and the cabin continues

the impression of quality. Unlike

Tesla’s minimalist approach, the

IM6 surrounds the driver with a

dashboard that feels both functional

and luxurious. The central column of

screens and controls gives the cockpit

a wrap-around feel that feels modern

without being confusing.

The seats are ultra-comfortable in

both front and rear, with the driver

enjoying a massage function, a

feature that elevates long journeys

to a new level of luxury. Rear

passengers did note the ride could

be a bit ‘thumpy’, even in Comfort

mode, but it’s not uncomfortable,

just noticeable.

MG has gone big on tech. The

ultra-wide 26.3-inch touchscreen

dominates the dash, complemented

by a 10.5-inch central vertical display

for secondary functions. The cabin

is also packed with driver aids,

including an “iAD” intelligent driving

system, Rainy Night Mode, and even

Four-Wheel Steering.

The IM6 has eight cameras around

the vehicle, so the small rear window

isn’t a compromise, it’s a design

choice justified by exceptional

visibility and safety systems.

The auto-parking system is one

of the most impressive I’ve tried.

Normally, I’m sceptical of such

systems, but the IM6 executes it with

near-flawless precision. The only real

gripe I had inside the cabin was the

lack of physical buttons for frequently

used functions like air conditioning

or music. Even after four days, I never

located the hazard lights, which is a

small but noticeable frustration in an

otherwise well-thought-out interior.

The Launch Edition I tested was

the Performance AWD variant,

delivering 751 hp (553 kW) and 802

Nm of torque. The result is mindblowing

acceleration: 0-62 mph in

just 3.5 seconds.

It’s unquestionably one of the

fastest EVs on the road today. Yet,

the thrill comes at a cost: battery life.

Rapid acceleration drains the battery

quickly, so while the IM6 is capable

of supercar-like bursts, it’s not

something you can enjoy constantly

without regret.

Handling is composed, with ride

comfort generally impressive.

The suspension absorbs road

imperfections well, although the rear

can feel slightly firm under certain

conditions. The steering is precise,

and the car feels planted at speed,

giving confidence whether on the

motorway or winding country lanes.

The IM6’s all-wheel-drive system

provides excellent traction, making it

feel agile despite its size.

CHARGING SPEED

Range varies depending on the model.

The Performance AWD version has

a 100 kWh battery and a range of 313

miles, while the Long Range RWD can

reach 388 miles.

During my test, I used a 300 kW

charger at Morrisons in Eastbourne.

I added 80 miles in just eight minutes

which was incredibly impressive, but

it came with a £26 cost!

Maximum DC charging speed is 396

kW, with a 10-80% charge achievable

in roughly 17 minutes, and a full AC

charge takes around 13 hours. Realworld

costs and speeds like this will

be key considerations for EV buyers,

and the IM6 performs respectably

here, though the expense of rapid

charging is something to bear in mind

and makes home charging essential.

The interior is spacious and inviting,

with ultra-soft leather-style seats

offering heating and ventilation.

The driver-centric cockpit and wellthought-out

ergonomics make long

journeys pleasurable.

The boot is reasonable for an SUV

of this size, and the practical layout

of controls and storage areas ensures

the car works as well in daily life as it

does on spirited drives.

The MG IM6 Launch Edition comes

in at £52,995, with the Performance

AWD variant priced around £50,995,

and the Long Range RWD from

£47,995. Considering the technology,

performance, and interior comfort on

offer, the IM6 represents exceptional

value for money. When compared

with Tesla, MG has managed to

undercut its rival on price while

arguably offering a more engaging

cabin and more characterful styling.

The MG IM6 Launch Edition is one

of the most compelling EVs on the

market right now. It’s fast, luxurious,

and packed with technology, all while

remaining reasonably priced.

MG has delivered a car that doesn’t

just compete with Tesla, it challenges

it. The IM6 is stylish, practical, and

fun to drive, offering a complete

package that could very well redefine

expectations in the EV segment.

Check out the MG range at

Birchwood MG in Eastbourne.

Call 01323 412612 or visit

birchwoodgroup.co.uk/mg.


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22 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Plans for busier Community

Run for 2026 get green light

HAILSHAM’S popular Community

Run is set to return this year after

the Town Council confirmed it

will once again help fund the

much-loved event.

Councillors have agreed a £6,000

contribution to support the fourth

Hailsham Community Run, helping

to cover essential costs such as

participant medals, toilet facilities,

event publicity, licences and

planning requirements.

The annual run has grown in

popularity in recent years, attracting

runners, joggers and walkers of all

ages and abilities, and establishing

itself as a highlight in the town’s

community calendar.

The event will take place on Sunday,

May 17, and organisers are already

encouraging people to sign up early,

with registration now open and

strong interest expected.

With previous runs drawing large

crowds and enthusiastic support,

the upcoming event is shaping up to

be another successful celebration

of fitness, community spirit

and local pride.

Building on the momentum of the

2025 event, which saw over 1,000

participants across a range of routes

— including the 10k, 5k, 3k, and

inclusive 1-mile options — organisers

are aiming for 1,200 entries in 2026.

With demand increasing each year,

early registration is strongly advised

to avoid disappointment.

Mary Laxton, Project Lead,

commented: “We are excited to

welcome participants back for

another unforgettable day of fitness,

fun and community spirit. The

atmosphere at last year’s event was

incredible, with over 2,000 people

lining the High Street to cheer on

the runners. We are committed to

HAILSHAM ACTIVE with Steve Wennington

making the 2026 event even more

special and we look forward to

another successful year.”

Now recognised as one of the

fastest-growing community sporting

events in East Sussex, the Hailsham

Community Run has become the

second-largest public event in the

town’s annual calendar.

Inclusivity remains at the heart

of the event, with routes designed

to ensure that participants of all

ages, abilities and backgrounds

can take part. Whether seasoned

athletes or first-time participants,

HELPING TO SAVE THE NHS

families and individuals with

additional needs are all encouraged

to join in the celebration of

community togetherness.

Karen Nicholls, Project Inclusivity

Lead, said: “Our mission is to make

the event accessible to all. Whether

you’re aiming for a personal best,

walking the 1-mile with your children

or participating with a disability

or health condition, you’ll receive

support and celebration. The

Hailsham Community Run is about

more than just running — it’s about

coming together as a community.”

Colin Mitchell, Project Co-

Organiser, added: “Last year’s

event sold out early, leaving many

disappointed. To accommodate

growing demand, we’ve increased

capacity for 2026 to 1,200 runners.

However, we expect demand

to be even higher this year,

so we encourage everyone to

register early.”

Organisers are also inviting local

schools, charities, sports clubs

and community groups to get

involved — either by entering teams,

volunteering or using the event as a

fundraising platform.

A limited number of sponsorship

packages are still available for local

businesses wishing to support this

popular event and become part of its

growing success.

The technical operations for the

event will once again be managed by

Sports Systems Ltd.

For sponsorship enquiries, please

contact Mary Laxton on 07723 444209

or email marylaxton70@gmail.com.

Register for the run at: register.

enthuse.com/ps/event/

HailshamCommunityRun2026/.

Steve Wennington

HAILSHAM BOXING CLUB

This has definitely been a pivotal year

for the club. The current premises are

not ideal for the longer term, and plans

are afoot to redevelop Grovelands Barn.

Fortunately, Hailsham Town

Council Assets committee have

formed a sub-committee to support

the club in its quest to find a way of

making this happen.

Early indications are that this is not

only possible, but that it could have a

really positive knock-on effect on other

local groups, who have all very much got

on board with supporting the project.

In my last article, I briefly mentioned

Empire Boxing Club from Bristol, which

came to meet Sam and his team to

explain how they developed from a

small club to become a leading national

community support group for clubs like

Hailsham. The story is as inspiring as it is

relevant to us in town.

Basically, two local boxers from Bristol

set up a boxing club and were doing ok

with it. After one of their sessions, they

went into a local park and noticed a

couple lads ‘doing drugs’.

This was a poor area of Bristol, so not

necessarily a surprise. They chatted to

the lads and offered them free access to

the boxing club.

They came along and loved it and

began to learn the disciplines and

camaraderie of the boxing life. Within

two months, another 50 youngsters

joined the club. The need for fitness,

discipline, and become part of a

‘positive community’ was clear and

had a profound positive impact on

these youngsters.

Sam and his team have been invited

to Bristol to learn more and become

part of an associate organisation. This

will be wonderful news for Hailsham, so

let’s do all we can to support the town

council in their support of the project

and also funding from local businesses,

community groups and indeed Wealden

District Council, who may support

with the CLIF fund.

HAILSHAM ACADEMY

There are two projects we hope to

build on this year.

The first, on the back of the very

successful upgrade of the Hockey

pitch and lighting. Again, thanks to

Wealden for the lions share of funding,

with support from the Hockey club,

local fundraising, the school and also

Hailsham Town Council. It is already

fully utilised for the school, Hockey Club

and local football club training.

Hailsham is very short of tennis

and Hockey facilities, so this will be

a tremendous benefit. (In a Wealden

Playing pitch analysis, it was identified

that Hailsham required 14 tennis courts –

and that was over 10 years ago). Netball

is also the fastest-growing UK sport, so

we know the demand is there.

A similar approach will need to be

taken to achieve the desired results. We

already have some amazing work going

on with tennis and netball in Hailsham,

with some really successful events on

Monday evenings at Hailsham Academy,

plus work with Junior (primary school

age) netball at James West on a

Tuesday evening.

Demand is growing for both sports,

and if we can link Wealden/Sports clubs/

Hailsham Academy and local support,

we can definitely make some very

positive changes.

The second and quieter project is

looking to see if pupils from Hailsham

Academy can assist with PE/sports

lessons at local primary schools. This is

such a good project as we know primary

school pupils react very positively to this

sort of involvement, plus it allows some

of the older pupils at Hailsham Academy,

the opportunity to see how they get

on in this environment, especially if

they are considering a career in sport/

teaching in the future.

Recreation grounds and clubs

Hellingly Parish Council, work with the

sports club have come up with a whole

raft of improvements for Horsebridge

Recreation Ground/Hellingly Sports Club.

Pitch drainage

Work commenced in September and

has now concluded with an amazing

upgrade for the junior football team

(Link), who now have up to six teams

playing (boys and girls).

The drainage will have such a

wonderful effect on allowing the season

at Horsebridge to continue almost

throughout the year, saving the club a

lot of money on 3G pitch rental as well

as helping the club become a year-round

social facility.

Further work on a fully lit perimeter

path, extra parking, large (5-a-side size)

MUGA with lighting and redevelopment

of the clubhouse changing facilities

are all in the pipeline, much of which

we hope to complete this year, with

architect designs and quotes for work

already underway.

Finally, from everyone associated

with Hailsham Active, we wish you all

success with whatever positive plans

you have for 2026.

Your local independent

property experts...

Residential Lettings Land New Homes

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room with patio doors, three bedrooms including

ensuite to main, family bathroom and downstairs

WC. Low maintenance rear garden with seating areas,

artificial lawn and gated access to allocated parking.

HARMERS HAY ROAD

GUIDE PRICE £240k - £260k

Well presented mid-terrace home on the popular

Harmers Hay development, ideal for first time buyers.

Offering two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes,

a bright dual-aspect lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen

and gas central heating. Benefits include a garage,

attractive front wildflower garden, and private rear

garden. Conveniently located within walking distance

of shops, schools and transport links.

47 HIGH STREET, HAILSHAM, BN27 1AN

CALL 01323 840444 or visit stevensandcarter.co.uk

LAURA STEVENS

8 3 4 2 5 7 6 1 9

24 NEWS

JANUARY 2026


Cryptic Simple Clue: clue Where - Where to get a fruity good Tagine food that meets sounds a warm like it might welcome be dear,

but really is exceptionally well priced.(10)

on the high street. (10, 10).

Solution : Check page 25 or Call 01323 842400 for the answer.

PUZZLES

WORDSEARCH

Nuts and Seeds

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.

ALMOND

ANISE

BRAZIL

CARAWAY

CARDAMOM

CHESTNUT

COCONUT

CORIANDER

CUMIN

DILL

FENNEL

FLAX

HICKORY

PEANUT

PECAN

PINE NUT

POPPY

WALNUT

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

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.

Check-box

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

T

CODEWORD

26 12 5 17 8 12 20 24 26 16 17 1 11 19

10 11 4 12 11 26 16

5 5 23 13 23 1 26 26 5 10 26 21 11 17

12 8 8 19 15 19 12 1

3 16 23 5 12 7 12 2 23 1 12 26 20 22

16 18 2 19 18 18

11 22 11 5 11 1 23 14 24 23 2 11 20 1

26 20 8 22 14 23

2 5 12 20 2 4 11 14 6 11 20 12 1 4

8 5 22 17 20 12

14 1 19 23 20 17 23 1 5 23 20 1 12 2

26 12 9 1 23 5 11 8

25 4 23 5 11 10 26 23 1

T U N L E H B S N E A E E

E S A X O D O A A O T S I

B R A Z I L L J C L E I S

G L Z K P M F I E C E N M

F U R S O I E N P O K A W

R H E N I D N G A C C A C

E S D P M J N E E O L M T

D F I B C G E P N N F U U

N Y E M A Y L S U U N D N

A W A A R B R T Y T T I A

I Y F W D L C O S X E C E

R C P I A U G E K Q T D P

O G E P M R H Y O C I L E

C R N I O C A G A L I I R

Y E N W M P Q C L E J H B

17 19 20 12

11 21 23 13 12 20 11 2 23

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

R

1 23 20 18 26

T

23 17 19

A

19 9 11 19 22

R

A

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

Across

4 First book of the

Old Testament (7)

8 Once more (5)

9 Shaft in a building

in which a series of

steps is built (9)

10 Copy on thin paper (5)

11 Book containing

a classified list of

synonyms (9)

13 Treeless Russian

plain (6)

16 Sickness (6)

20 Cause to feel selfconscious

(9)

23 Develop (5)

24 Frightened greatly (9)

25 Asian water lily (5)

26 Christmas firewood (4,3)

Down

1 Strategy (7)

2 Equilibrium (7)

3 Beginning of an

offensive (5)

4 Short, pointed beard (6)

5 Place of complete bliss,

delight and peace (7)

6 Cut the wool from (5)

CROSSWORD

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8

10

9

11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18

20 21 22

24

26

7 Cut-price events (5)

12 Application (3)

14 Woollen cap of

Scottish origin (3)

15 Incomplete (7)

17 Fill to satisfaction (7)

18 Mollify (7)

19 Audacious (6)

20 Act of going in (5)

21 Coloured transparent

gemstone (5)

19

22 In an unfortunate manner (5)

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.

3 2

6 5

1 7 4

5 3 6

4 3 7 9 1

8 9 4

5 2 4

7 1

8 9

23

25

SOLUTIONS

3 4 1 7 6 8 5 9 2

7 9 8 5 3 2 1 4 6

5 6 2 9 4 1 3 7 8

6 8 7 1 2 9 4 5 3

4 2 3 6 7 5 9 8 1

9 1 5 3 8 4 2 6 7

2 5 9 8 1 6 7 3 4

1 7 6 4 9 3 8 2 5

8 3 4 2 5 7 6 1 9

8 9

SUDOKU

O I L S K I N J O U S T E R

B E H I E O U

L L A M A T O O L B O X E S

I K K R P R I T

Q U A L I F I C A T I O N Y

U 3G 2 C R G G

E Y E L E T A D J A C E N T

6 5

O N K Y D A

C L I N C H1 E D 7 Z E4

N I T H

K 5 3L Y S 6 N I

D

4

T

3

R A N

7

S A

9

T L A

1

N T I C

O I V T A L E K

8 9 4

W H A L E B O A T T A N G O

S5 R 2 4 N I A S R

E7 X A M I N E 1C A R V E R Y

© Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)

Est 2011

CODEWORD

T B O G E N E S I S

A G A I N O I H A

C L S T A I R W E L L

T R A C E T V A E

I N T H E S A U R U S

C C E N S

S T E P P E N A U S E A

A A D A P

E M B A R R A S S T P

N E T R A R I S E

T E R R I F I E D A A

R Y A N L O T U S

Y U L E L O G Y E E

CROSSWORD

T U N L E H B S N E A E E

E S A X O D O A A O T S I

B R A Z I L L J C L E I S

G L Z K P M F I E C E N M

F U R S O I E N P O K A W

R H E N I D N G A C C A C

E S D P M J N E E O L M T

D F I B C G E P N N F U U

N Y E M A Y L S U U N D N

A W A A R B R T Y T T I A

I Y F W D L C O S X E C E

R C P I A U G E K Q T D P

O G E P M R H Y O C I L E

C R N I O C A G A L I I R

Y E N W M P Q C L E J H B

WORDSEARCH


ISLE OF WIGHT ESCAPADES

£735

per person

TOUR DEPARTS ON 11th MAY, 2026

The Isle of Wight is a treasure trove of

attractions, beautiful coastline with a rich

cultural heritage, making your visit full

of unforgettable moments.

Price is per person in a double or twin room,

a small allocation of single rooms at no

supplement subject to availability.

YOUR TOUR INCLUDES

l Return ferry crossings

l 4 nights half board in the

3* Bourne Hall Hotel Shanklin

l 1 nights entertainment

l Full English Breakfast

l 3 course dinner with choice of

tea or coffee

l Admission to Carisbrooke castle, visit

to the Isle of wight Donkey Sanctuary,

21/2 hour ‘two ports’ cruise. Visit to Isle of

Wight Pearl, admission to Osborne House,

return journey on the Isle of Wight railway.

To book, call Tracey on 01323 808080

Attention all Home Owners

and Council Tax Payers!

DO YOU HAVE A BOILER FROM 2005 OR

BEFORE THAT NEEDS REPLACING?

PUBLIC NOTICE

GOOD VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE

Perfectly Green Ltd

of

Unit M1 Swallows Business Park, Diamond Drive, Hailsham,

East Sussex, BN27 4EL

to

add an operating centre to keep 5 goods vehicles and 0 trailers at

Unit M1 Swallows Business Park, Diamond Drive, Hailsham,

East Sussex, BN27 4EL.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centres who believe that their

use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic

Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons, within 21 days of this

notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the

address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at:

www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-making-representations-objections-and-complaints-goods-vehicle-operator-licensing

DATE: 2 JANUARY, 2026.

You can now qualify free if you have limited mobility,

respiratory or cardiovascular issues, or if you’re

household income is less than 31k per year

FREE Boiler Replacement

FREE Cavity Wall Insulation

FREE Heating Grants

FREELoft Insulation

Call FREE today on

0800 702 2183

for a no obligation survey from a fully accredited

surveyor to see if you qualify

26 SPORT

JANUARY 2026


Grit, growth and festive spirit

in the mid-season grind

BY OWEN HUGHES

AS the winter frost settles on the

pitch, Hellingly Rugby Club finds

itself in the thick of a challenging

and formative quarter. Following

a blistering start to the season, the

league has truly tested the mettle of

our squads, providing formidable

opponents and uphill battles that

have required every ounce of

resilience the club is known for.

FINDING EQUILIBRIUM

ON THE PITCH

For both the 1st and 2nd XV, the last

few months have been about finding

their “equilibrium” in a higher tier of

competition. While the score lines

haven’t always gone our way, the

performances have been anything

but quiet. We’ve seen hard-fought

battles where the boys have left

absolutely everything on the pitch,

proving that Hellingly belongs

in this new league through sheer

determination and work rate.

This period of “levelling out” is a

natural part of any promotion journey.

The coaching team continues to focus

on structure and discipline, ensuring

that even in the toughest games, the

Hellingly spirit remains unbroken.

The experience gained during these

difficult fixtures will undoubtedly be

the foundation for a strong finish to the

season in 2026.

A FESTIVE BOOM

FOR THE MINIS

While the seniors are battling for

league points, the Minis section is

witnessing a period of incredible

growth. We are thrilled to announce

that we now have over 35 young

players regularly turning out on

Sunday mornings!

The future of the club was on

full display recently at the Minis’

Christmas party. With the clubhouse

full of festive cheer and high spirits, it’s

clear that the “family presence” we set

out to build this year is thriving. The

energy and rapid growth of the junior

side continue to be a massive highlight

for everyone involved with the club.

JOIN THE GREEN

AND GOLD

WHETHER you are looking to

blow off the holiday cobwebs

or your child wants to try a new

sport, there is always room for

more in the Hellingly family.

We are actively recruiting

for all levels!

• Senior Training: Tuesdays at 7:00

PM at the Clubhouse.

• Minis Training (Ages 5-11):

Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM.

Stay updated with all the latest

news, match reports, and events by

following us on Instagram @

Hellinglyrfc or finding us on at

Hellingly Rugby Club.

Sixteen goals in three

games for Stringers

Drawn Doubles Tournament

Wraps Up The Year

BY STUART FAIRWAY

HAILSHAM Town remain second

in the Southern Combination

Football League Division Two

table after a superb December saw

three wins from three games with

16 goals scored.

The Stringers began the month with

a Division Two Cup Quarter Final

against ASC Brighton Rangers, with

an Ola James brace and one from Eric

Caicedo setting up a semi final tie

against Rustington, before a superb

performance saw Hailsham return to

league action with an 11-0 win away at

Worthing Town.

Eight different goalscorers were

on target at Palatine Park, with Matt

Fear, Sammy Townsend and Connor

Townsend all scoring two each, with

Harry Mills, Will Ridgway, Ola James,

Bayly Wright and Ollie Albery also

netting in Hailsham’s biggest league

victory since 1975.

The final game of the year saw

Hailsham take the lead against third

placed Chichester City B within 30

seconds through Caicedo, only to

be pegged back midway through

Cricket 2026 season training

HAILSHAM Cricket Club has

announced the return of pre-season

indoor training, as preparations

begin for the 2026 season.

From February, the club will be

offering training opportunities for

players of all ages and abilities,

providing a fantastic chance to

sharpen skills, build fitness and

reconnect with teammates ahead of

the new campaign.

With a strong focus on

development and enjoyment,

the sessions are designed to

ensure everyone is ready to hit the

ground running once the outdoor

season begins.

Hailsham Cricket Club prides

the first half.

After the break Hailsham kept up

the pressure, with Will Ridgway

scoring what proved to be the winner

on 66. The Stringers start January

with the longest trip of the league

season, away to Bosham, on the

third, before playing Jesters Town

(Intermediate Cup, 10th), Southwater

(17th), Ferring (24th) and finishing

the month against Rudgwick (31st).

Hailsham Town Women only

played the once in December, with a

Sian Heather goal for Hailsham in a

1-1 draw with TD Shipley.

itself on being an inclusive,

community-focused club and

looks forward to welcoming both

returning and new members

back into training.

For further information or to get

involved, please contact the club

at hailshamcc@outlook.com or

call 07980 146841.

Drawn Doubles Ladies’ finalists Val

Jackson, Georgia Lee, umpire Matt

Dean, Lye Kin Fong and Narun Chea

HAILSHAM Tennis Club finished

off their year with their annual

Drawn Doubles tournament. All the

entrants’ names are put into a hat

and partners drawn at random.

In the mixed doubles, Neil Downer

and Jenny Harrison prevailed against

Simon Farey and Mary Srey 6-1, 6-1,

although the score belies the play, as

the losing pair put up a bold fight.

In the ladies’ doubles there was

a real contest, with the ladies’ first

team first pair, Narun Chea and

Georgia Lee on different sides

of the net, Narun with Lye Kin

Fong, the unofficial team coach,

and Georgia with second team

captain Val Jackson.

In a close first set, Narun and Lye

Men’s Drawn Doubles winners

Tim Fellows and Neil Downer

Kin won a tie break 7-6, but Georgia

and Val came back to win the second

set 6-4. The title had to be decided

by a championship tie break (first to

10 points) and both pairs had match

points before Narun and Lye Kin

settled it 11-9.

The men’s doubles was an anticlimax,

as Simon Wells was unable to

make it on the day, so, by the rule of

the tournament, he and partner Sean

Chea had to concede to Neil Downer

and Tim Fellows.

Well done to all the players in the

tournament and Chris Witt, who

organised it with his usual precision.

You can follow events at Hailsham

Tennis Club on their Facebook page

or Instagram, or website.

Save £200

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If you’re considering care,

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Scan the QR code to

view all our courses.

Find your FIX in ‘26!

Here’s what nobody tells you about learning as an adult: it’s not just

about new qualifications - it’s about discovering what you can do and

opening doors you never expected.

Whether you want to boost your career, change direction, or learn for

the joy of it, our adult courses starting this January could be your

perfect first step.

We’ve got free community learning courses to help boost your

wellbeing or a whole range of online qualifications to boost your CV.

• You could qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover

the cost of your course

• English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

courses available.

92.8%

STUDENT

SATISFACTION RATING

compared to 83.4% nationally.

NSS data 2024/25

RECRUITING NOW

FOR SEPTEMBER 2026!

Scan the QR

code to view all

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COURSES

STARTING THIS

JANUARY!

YOUR

FUTURE IN

RAIL STARTS

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Rail is vital to the UK

economy and the

industry needs skilled

workers now.

Our fully funded 6–8

week City & Guilds

Rail Maintenance NVQ

and Diploma prepares

you to help keep the

network safe and running

smoothly.

Scan the QR to

sign up for our

next information

session.

adult.escg.ac.uk - 030 300 39699 - @EastSussexCollege

Hailsham News, January 2026, Issue 53

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