Hailsham News, June 2026, Issue 58

JUNE 2026 | ISSUE 58
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR HAILSHAM, POLEGATE, HELLINGLY AND SURROUNDING AREAS
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2 NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
WELCOME
I THINK I’m one of many when I
say how disappointed I was when
the Hailsham Community Run was
postponed last month.
To no fault of the organisers, a simple
decision by an outside party can have
such an impact on these events and
caused so much disruption.
I can only take my hat off to the
organisers for dealing with the
situation and pulling all the stops out to
make sure everyone knew what was
going on, when someone decided to dig
up the road on one of the routes.
I know it was emergency works, but
I do feel there’s been a communication
problem somewhere, as I don’t think
authorities would decide to dig up a
road just days ahead of the London
Marathon — would they?
Anyway, it will give us something to
look forward to in July, and once again
welcome so many people to the town
centre for one of the biggest events in
the annual calendar.
There’s two big events to look
forward to this month at the Western
Road Rec, all details are in this edition.
Please do come out and support these,
as organising events is not an easy job,
and we must all come out, support and
enjoy them when we can.
I’m pleased to see so much sports
news happening at the moment. This
edition also highlights all the amazing
things going on for sports lovers. I was
pleased to be the first to photograph
the new football pitch (page 13) and
other things like the new Boxing
Club, really gives us reasons to love
living in Hailsham.
Paul Gibson, Group Editor
Reform secures all three
local County Council seats
REFORM UK has secured all three
East Sussex County Council seats
covering Hailsham following the
local elections, as voters across the
area delivered a decisive result at
the ballot box.
Residents went to the polls on
Thursday (May 7) to choose who
would represent them at County Hall,
with divisions covering Hailsham
New Town, Hailsham Market, and
Arlington, East Hoathly & Hellingly
all falling to Reform candidates.
In Hailsham New Town, Reform
UK’s Paul Soane was elected with
1,192 votes, ahead of Liberal
Democrat Gavin Blake-Coggins, who
secured 800 votes, and independent
Barry Carpenter on 768. Conservative
Trevor Botting received 500 votes,
while Green Party candidate Simon
Wells polled 248. Turnout in the
division was 40 per cent, with
3,519 votes cast.
In Hailsham Market, Reform’s
Neil Cleaver claimed victory with a
commanding 1,455 votes, ahead of
Liberal Democrat Steve Murphy on
1,099 votes. Conservative candidate
Jordan Beech received 456 votes,
while Green Party candidate Ali
Stevens polled 356. Turnout was 38
per cent, with 3,380 votes cast.
In the larger Arlington, East Hoathly
& Hellingly division, Reform UK’s
William Boone was elected with
1,784 votes, ahead of Conservative
Nick Bennett on 1,176. Green Party
candidate Ricardo Canha received
835 votes, Liberal Democrat Laura
Murphy secured 789, and Labour’s
Brendan Clegg polled 133 votes.
Turnout in the division was the
highest across the Hailsham area at
46 per cent, with 10,223 votes cast.
Reform UK’s county councillors
have elected a leader. They have
named long-time parish councillor
and the newly-elected county
councillor for Heathfield and
Mayfield, Andrew Woolley as leader.
In a statement included in the press
release, Cllr Woolley said: “We have
22 seats, and we are under no illusions
Charity delivers 140,000 tissue
packets to schools and charities
about what that means. Forming
an administration will require the
genuine support of others, and we are
seeking that in good faith.
“We have already reached out to the
other groups. We are not asking them
to abandon their identities or their
principles. We are asking whether
we can find sufficient common
ground — on the roads, the finances,
the quality of care — to work together
for the people of East Sussex. We
believe we can, and we will continue
making that case.”
As Hailsham News was going to
press, no deals between parties had
been struck to form any majority
coalition, so Reform UK will lead a
minority administration — meaning
they are the largest party but not
enough to have a majority. The
Conservatives stressed there were
no deals and they would decide
on a case-by-case basis whether
they would support Reform
decisions or not.
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
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A HAILSHAM-based charity has
distributed 140,000 packets of
tissues to schools, charities and
community groups across Sussex,
with thousands more now set to
be sent overseas.
Over the past few weeks, Medi Tech
Trust has delivered donations to
more than 90 schools and charitable
organisations across East Sussex and
Brighton and Hove, after receiving an
unexpected stock-clearance donation
from a distributor.
Rather than letting the mountain
of tissues sit in storage, the charity
quickly launched a major distribution
effort to ensure the supplies reached
organisations that could make
good use of them.
In addition, a further 5,000 packets
are due to be sent to Ukraine next
week, while additional supplies will
later be delivered to the Bethesda
Children’s Centre in Sierra Leone
in partnership with Hailsham
Gospel Mission.
The large-scale operation saw the
Medi Tech Trust team working flat
out to move stock from its Hailsham
warehouse to schools, charities,
food banks and community groups
across the region.
Stuart Flynn, Warehouse Manager
at Medi Tech Trust, said: “It’s been
a privilege delivering tissues to so
many smiling faces — and having
a laugh with people whose football
rivals happen to be printed on the
packets! Unfortunately, I dipped
into a bus lane in Brighton, so that
delivery cost me £35.”
Bob Lewis, Honorary CEO of
Medi Tech Trust, said the initiative
reflected the charity’s ongoing
commitment to supporting
local communities.
He said: “Supporting our local
community is always our top priority.
Not only will these donations
save schools and community
groups money, but we hope
they’ve also brought some joy and
laughter along the way.
“We are always pleased to receive
more opportunities like this to
continue serving our community.”
Medi Tech Trust, which is based
in Hailsham, regularly supports
both local and international
charitable causes through the
redistribution of donated medical and
community supplies.

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

4 NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Community Run postponed
until July due to utility repairs
THE Hailsham Community Run has
been postponed for a second time
after ongoing emergency utility
works in the town centre failed to be
completed in time.
Organisers had hoped the popular
event, which attracts around 1,000
runners and thousands of spectators,
could go ahead over the May Bank
Holiday weekend after its original
postponement from 17th May.
However, Sports Systems and
the Hailsham Community Run
organisers have now confirmed
the event will now take place on
Sunday, July 12.
The setback followed continued
repair works on Station Road, where
UK Power Networks has been
carrying out emergency works.
Liam, from Sports Systems, said
a further complication emerged
during excavation work when a highpressure
gas main was discovered
close to the repair area.
He said: “Over the past few days,
we have been in discussions with
Wealden District Council and East
Sussex Highways regarding the
ongoing situation.
“Unfortunately, the UKPN repair
works on Station Road have still not
been completed. During excavation
works, the team on site identified a
high-pressure gas main close to the
area requiring repair. As a result, they
are now awaiting sign-off from SGN
before work can continue.
“At present, that sign-off has not
yet taken place, and therefore there
is still no confirmed timeframe for
completion of the repairs.”
Organisers had been told there was
a strong possibility a temporary road
surface could be installed to allow
the event to proceed the following
weekend before permanent
repairs resumed.
But, due to a delay in starting
them, organisers said they made
the decision to avoid another lastminute
cancellation.
Liam added: “We wanted to give
all entrants as much advance notice
as possible so that, if required, they
would have time to make alternative
plans for the Bank Holiday weekend.
“There are also many other people
involved in delivering the event,
including volunteers, sponsors,
suppliers and partners and we felt it
was important to provide clarity early
this week rather than risk another
last-minute postponement.”
Project Lead of the Hailsham
Community Run, Mary Laxton,
said: “Its been a very difficult and
taxing five days since this trench was
brought to our attention. The impact
on the community, businesses and
partners has been very taxing, but
the support and understanding
from everyone made the days more
bearable. We look forward to seeing
you all on the 12th July .”
All entrants have been contacted
directly with information
regarding their entries.
Organisers acknowledged the
revised date may not work for
everyone and apologised for the
continued disruption.
Arlington Bluebell Walk
raises over £100k for charity
MORE than 21,000 visitors helped
make this year’s Arlington Bluebell
Walk & Farm Trails one of the most
successful in its 53-year history,
raising a record-breaking £109,054
for local charities.
The annual attraction, which
has become a springtime tradition
for thousands across Sussex and
beyond, welcomed huge crowds
during its 2026 run, with organiser
John McCutchan (pictured inset)
describing it as ‘an exceptional year’.
The remarkable fundraising total
means the event has now raised
£1,278,419 for good causes since it
first began in 1972.
Despite a damp start on opening
day, the weather soon turned in the
event’s favour.
John said: “There was light drizzle
on Good Friday when we opened,
but then every day was dry and
generally sunny.
“The waiting list of other charities
wanting to participate grows year
on year, so it’s always a balancing
act to choose which participating
charities have sufficient volunteers,
to ensure our visitors, in whatever
numbers, have a good experience
when they visit.”
A total of 26 charities benefited
from this year’s event, with several
organisations reporting their bestever
fundraising totals.
Among the standout successes was
the Arlington Church Plant Stall,
which opened every day and raised
a record £9,848.
Eastbourne AM Rotary Club also
enjoyed a bumper year, raising its
highest ever weekend total of £10,294.
Two charities that expanded their
involvement from one day to two
days also saw significant gains.
Children with Cancer Fund raised
£6,233, while Children’s Respite Trust
brought in £6,342.
The event’s impact has also
continued to benefit the local village
itself, with Arlington receiving
£323,020 over the years to support St
Pancras Church and the Village Hall.
Visitors to the hall can see a
special weather vane featuring
John’s late wife, Carolyn, depicted
pushing a wheelbarrow through
the bluebells, a fitting tribute to the
Café at Bluebell Walk
woman whose idea sparked the very
first Bluebell Walk.
John has continued to evolve
the event in recent years, with
new attractions and accessibility
improvements helping to
broaden its appeal.
This year saw the introduction of
different makes of classic cars on
Sundays, a move John says could
return in 2027.
He said: “The introduction of
different makes of Classic Cars
on Sundays was an innovative
idea, so with some tweaks may be
continued next year.
“The introduction of the two-person
mobility scooter has been successful,
plus with an additional 24 individual
scooters, word is getting around that
those who have impaired mobility
can also enjoy our walk.”
Planning is already underway
for next year’s event, although
predicting exactly when the bluebells
will bloom remains one of the
biggest challenges.
John added: “The planning for
2027 has already started with a list
of improvements to enhance the
visitor experience, but what we can’t
anticipate is when the bluebells will
look their best, as each year it gets
earlier, so choosing the dates for next
year is just a gamble.”
It has already been a memorable
year personally for John, who
recently received The Times
Sternberg Active Life Award at 11
Downing Street.
He added: “A big thank you to
everyone who has made it such
a marvellous, successful and
enjoyable year.”

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6 NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Residents grill Councillors
on anti-social behaviour and
empty shops at Annual Meeting
RESIDENTS raised concerns over
anti-social behaviour, empty shops,
public services and councillor
attendance at Hailsham Town
Council’s annual meeting on May 13.
Around 60 residents turned out for
the meeting, chaired for the first time
by Town Mayor Cllr Chris Bryant at
the annual gathering.
A lengthy public question session
saw residents quiz councillors on
a wide range of issues affecting
the town, from the future of the
high street and youth provision
to highways, policing and the
financial performance of the
town’s Post Office.
One resident challenged the
council over councillor meeting
attendance, claiming one councillor
had attended just three out of 26
meetings, while another recent full
council meeting had seen only eight
members present.
Responding, Cllr Bryant said: “By
law, a councillor only has to attend
one meeting every six months.
We can’t change that. It’s up to
each individual councillor if they
attend, or not.”
Concerns were also raised over
anti-social behaviour around the war
memorial in the town centre, with
one resident saying they now avoided
the area due to drunkenness and the
smell of suspected drug use.
Cllr Bryant said the Town Council
had been working with police on the
issue, but stressed incidents needed
to be reported.
New Gatwick
Airport bus route
Roadshow stops
in Hailsham
STAFF from Metrobus visited
Hailsham as part of a roadshow
promoting the new Route 500 bus
service linking Eastbourne with
Gatwick Airport.
The roadshow stopped in Hailsham
High Street, where members of the
public were able to speak with staff,
pick up timetables and find out more
about the new direct route.
Metrobus representatives answered
questions from residents about fares,
journey times and how the new
service will operate when it launches
later this month.
The new Route 500 service connects
Eastbourne with Gatwick Airport
via Hailsham, Uckfield and East
Grinstead, providing what operators
describe as a more convenient
and sustainable alternative to
travelling by car.
The service has been introduced in
partnership with London Gatwick,
East Sussex County Council and West
Sussex County Council.
Route 500 officially launched
on May 9, 2026.
He said: “Drinking in public
isn’t illegal, but if there’s an
issue with behaviour, then the
police need to know.”
Councillors said they had looked
into alcohol restrictions in the area,
but noted the issue was complex.
The future of Hailsham’s struggling
town centre also featured heavily.
One resident questioned how
the council intended to achieve its
strategic aim of making Hailsham a
stronger destination for shopping,
leisure and culture, asking how the
town could realistically attract new
businesses amid growing vacancy
rates and the rise of online shopping.
Another raised concerns over the
growing number of barber shops
and vape or sweet shop-style outlets
appearing in empty premises on
the High Street.
Cllr Bryant acknowledged the
concerns, saying the loss of variety in
the town centre had been identified
and discussions were taking place
with the Chamber of Commerce and
Wealden District Council.
He said one immediate initiative
would see vacant shop units fitted
with display stickers to improve their
appearance, while the council also
hoped to encourage pop-up shops.
Town Councillor Anne Marie
Ricketts said: “I’ve lived in Hailsham
56 years. This town used to have
everything in it — fruit and veg
shops, shoe shops and much
more. My passion is this town,
and I really want to encourage
businesses to come here.”
Karen Giddings from the Town
Council said upcoming events,
including Sussex Day celebrations,
the Christmas lights switch-on
and trial markets, were all aimed
at bringing more people into
the town centre.
The future of the relocated market
was also discussed after newlyelected
County Councillor Paul
Soane asked why it had been moved
from the town centre to the council
offices car park, and if the trial had
been successful.
Cllr Bryant said the move was
part of a trial due to restrictions
on what could be offered in the
original location.
Ms Giddings said one trial market
remained, with the issue due to return
to the Communities Committee on
June 1 before any decision is made.
Youth services were also defended
after questions about their impact
and value for money.
Andy Joyes from Hailsham Youth
Service said around 600 young
people were currently registered,
with around 60 attending each
drop-in session and approximately
3,000 attendances recorded over the
past three months.
He said the service also offers
counselling, used by around 30 young
people a month, and plans were in
place for a family support centre and
expanded sports provision.
Questions were also asked about
major infrastructure projects,
including roadworks expected on
South Road and Ersham Road.
County Councillor Neil Cleaver said
East Sussex County Council highways
officers had assured him that the
Ersham Road roundabout project
was fully funded and expected to
proceed next year.
The future of local services was
another concern, with residents
raising the loss of Burfield School and
a doctors’ surgery.
Cllr Bryant said the Town Council
lobbied wherever possible but
acknowledged it had no power to
force other authorities to act.
On Hailsham Post Office, Chair of
Finance and Governance, Cllr Colin
Mitchell, said the Town Council had
subsidised the service by £303,000
since opening it in 2019, but said
finances were improving.
He said: “The banking hub has
turned it around and we should be
turning a corner this year.”
A resident praised the service,
saying the town “wouldn’t know what
we’d do without it”.
Questions were also raised over
the future of local government
reorganisation and the possible move
to a unitary authority structure.
Councillors said there remained
significant uncertainty, with Mr
Soane concluding he thinks the plans
will be ‘kicked down the road’.
Cllr Bryant concluded the meeting
by thanking all the residents for
attending, and reiterating that
anyone is welcome to attend the
regular council meetings to make
their views known.

Monday, 8th June, 26 Saturday, 20th June, 26
7pm - 9pm
10am - 12pm
The Blue Room, Hellingly Community Hub

8 NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Concern over rising
wildlife cruelty
incidents in Hailsham
RESIDENTS are being urged to
stay vigilant following a series of
troubling incidents involving harm
to wildfowl in local green spaces,
particularly at Hailsham Country
Park and the Common Pond.
Recent intelligence from national
animal welfare organisations
indicates that Hailsham has become
a focal point for offences involving
the use of high-powered catapults to
injure and kill birds. Over the past few
weeks alone, additional cases have
been recorded, adding to a pattern
of incidents previously identified
in collaboration with local wildlife
rescue services.
These acts form part of a wider
national issue being addressed
through ‘Operation Lakeshot’ — a
coordinated initiative involving
police and charities aimed at tackling
the growing misuse of catapults
against wildlife. While such offences
are occurring across the UK,
evidence suggests they are especially
concentrated in the southeast,
with Hailsham experiencing
a notable share.
Within the town, confirmed
reports have highlighted recent,
confirmed attacks at the Country
Park lake off Gleneagles Drive, whilst
incidents have also been recorded
at the Common Pond in Bellbanks
Road in the past. Ducks, geese and
other wildlife have been found
injured or killed, often as a result
of projectiles such as ball bearings,
marbles or stones.
Investigations suggest that many of
these incidents involve small groups
of young people, although there
have also been cases linked to older
individuals, including offenders using
vehicles. Authorities are additionally
aware of a concerning online trend in
which attacks are filmed and shared
on social media platforms.
A significant challenge in
addressing these crimes is the
accessibility of catapults, which
can be purchased legally and
without age restrictions. While
ownership is not prohibited, their use
as a weapon constitutes a criminal
offence — though proving intent
can be difficult.
The Town Council encourages
anyone witnessing an incident
in progress to contact Police
immediately by calling 999.
Non-emergency information
or reports can be made via 101.
Additionally, incidents can be
reported to the League Against
Cruel Sports through its Animal
Crimewatch service online, by phone
on 0300 444 1234 or via email at
crimewatch@league.org.uk.
Bonfire Society’s Flaming
Fun Day set to return
HAILSHAM Bonfire Society’s
popular Flaming Fun Day will
return to the Western Road
Recreation Ground this month to
raise month for the society.
The free community event on
Sunday, 28th June from 11am to
4pm, will feature entertainment
and activities for all ages, including
live music, family entertainment,
stalls, fairground rides, a dog show,
miniature railway, games, food
and drink stalls, face painting, a
performing arena, tug-of-war, charity
stalls, a licensed bar and much more.
The Town Council has awarded
£4,500 towards the event to help
fund promotion, live music, toilet
hire, first aid provision, security and
associated stage costs. Other event
sponsors include Harvey’s Brewery
and Tinkers Park.
Town councillor and Honorary
Vice President of Hailsham Bonfire
Society, Dave Chapman, said: “It’s
that time of year again when the
Society invites residents and visitors
to come together for our Flaming
Fun Day. It’s a completely free event
for everyone to enjoy and there will
be plenty to see and do throughout
the day for families, children and
visitors of all ages.”
“As a volunteer-led organisation,
the Society works incredibly hard
throughout the year to support
local charities and contribute
positively to the community. Events
such as Flaming Fun Day not only
raise valuable funds but also bring
people together and help maintain
the strong community spirit that
Hailsham is known for.”
“Thanks must go to the Society’s
Fundraising Secretary Jo Salmons
and her team for all their hard work
from the outset.”
Dave added: “We are always keen
to welcome new members who
would like to get involved and help
us continue making our fundraising
events and annual October
bonfire celebrations bigger and
better each year.”
The Mayor of Hailsham, Cllr
Chris Bryant, who will be attending
the event, welcomed the return of
Flaming Fun Day and praised the
work of the Bonfire Society and
its volunteers.
“As a member of Hailsham Bonfire
Society, Flaming Fun Day is one of my
favourite local events and a fantastic
opportunity for the community to
come together and enjoy a fun-filled
day,” said Cllr Bryant. “Hailsham
Bonfire Society makes an enormous
contribution to the town through
its fundraising, voluntary work
and community events, and the
Town Council is proud to support
this year’s event.”
“I would encourage residents to
come along, support the Society
and enjoy everything the day
has to offer. Community events
like this play an important role
in bringing people together,
supporting local organisations and
strengthening community spirit
within the town.”
For further information and
membership details, visit the
Hailsham Bonfire Society website.
Brownies celebrate
Sprint with creative
competition
BARRATT Homes has partnered
with Hailsham Brownies to
celebrate the season with colour
and creativity by hosting a special
decoration competition.
During their spring break, 12
members of Hailsham Brownies were
invited by Barratt Homes to decorate
small wooden eggs, transforming
them into unique works of art with
stickers, sequins and coloured pens.
The initiative aimed to inspire
creativity, celebrate the arrival of
spring, and provide a fun, hands-on
activity for the Brownies.
As it builds the Cuckoo Fields
development nearby Barratt Homes
has worked with the Brownies group
to set creative challenges and host
bee walks to celebrate local nature
and biodiversity.
Janet Whittle, Hailsham Brownies
leader, said: “This was a fantastic
opportunity for our Brownies to get
creative and try something new. They
thoroughly enjoyed decorating the
eggs and expressing themselves in
different ways. We’re very grateful
to Barratt Homes for making this
activity possible and supporting the
Hailsham Brownies.”
Phil Hurring, Marketing Manager
at Barratt Redrow Southern Counties,
added: “We are committed to working
with local groups and encouraging
creativity in young people, to support
thriving communities. Developing
strong relationships with local groups
is incredibly important to us, and the
effort and imagination shown in this
activity has been a wonderful way to
welcome the spring season.”

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 NEWS 9
New Strategic Plan sets out Town
Council priorities through to 2030
Hailsham charities invited
to cash in at Airbourne
HAILSHAM Town Council has
published an updated Strategic
Plan, setting out the authority’s
priorities, ambitions and objectives
for the four-year period from May
2026 to May 2030.
The revised Plan, presented to
the public at the Annual Town
(Electors’) Meeting held recently,
will guide the Council’s work
and decision-making to ensure a
coordinated approach that reflects
the best interests of residents,
businesses and all those who use
Town Council services. It outlines
the Council’s vision, values, purpose
and long-term goals, while providing
a clear framework for future activity
and investment.
Designed as a ‘living document’,
the Strategic Plan will be monitored,
reviewed and updated regularly to
ensure it remains responsive to local
needs and changing circumstances.
The document will also help shape
the Council’s wider strategies and
priorities, particularly in relation to
financial planning and the annual
budget-setting process.
“This updated Plan builds on the
foundation laid by the previous
version and provides a sharper focus
on key priorities to enhance our
town and maintain quality services
for residents,” said Town Mayor Cllr
Chris Bryant. “Over the past four
years, the Council has achieved a
great deal and successfully navigated
numerous challenges. In revising
our Strategic Plan, we reaffirm our
commitment to the continuous
improvement of Hailsham and its
surrounding areas — for the benefit
of residents, businesses and the
wider community.”
“The Council remains confident
in the town’s future, even in the
face of significant upcoming
changes. By adopting fresh
perspectives and reviewing our
priorities, we have developed an
updated strategy that highlights the
critical issues we aim to address in
the years ahead.”
Cllr Bryant added: “The revised
Strategic Plan is designed to be
clearer and more target-driven,
demonstrating relevant timelines. We
recognise that important decisions
lie ahead — particularly concerning
how we allocate funds from our share
of the precept and other revenue
sources. Our commitment is clear:
to enhance our land, services and
facilities while delivering value
for money, ensuring long-term
sustainability and maintaining strong
community support.”
The Strategic Plan includes an
overview of the Town Council’s
structure, committees, finances,
staffing arrangements and key
services. It also sets out detailed
action plans linked to areas including
asset management, corporate
services, youth provision and
business enterprise activities.
Corporate Services Manager
Karen Giddings commented:
“Having an agreed and updated
working plan or strategy provides
a clear foundation for the Town
Council to work during the next f
our-year period and, simultaneously,
the Strategic Plan will help residents
to have a better understanding of
the Town Council responsibilities,
services and activities.”
“We welcome any feedback from
the people of Hailsham on the
content of this plan, which should be
directed to either the Town Clerk or
the Town Mayor & Chairman.”
The updated Strategic Plan is
available to download via the
Town Council’s website. Printed
copies can also be requested
from the Town Council offices
in Market Street.
LOCAL charities are being offered
the chance to raise vital funds at this
summer’s Airbourne, as organisers
of Eastbourne’s international
airshow launch a fresh appeal
for volunteers.
The UK’s biggest free airshow
returns to Eastbourne seafront from
13 to 16 August, with organisers
urging community groups and
charities to join the annual
fundraising bucket collection that
helps keep the spectacular flying
displays in the skies.
Volunteer teams collecting
donations across the four-day event
will receive 30 per cent of the money
they raise for their chosen charity,
with the scheme having generated
more than £100,000 for good
causes since 2012.
The collections, co-ordinated by the
Rotary Club of Hailsham, Eastbourne
Hospitality Association, and a large
team of volunteers, play a crucial
role in supporting the future of
the popular event.
Charities can now apply to be
part of the bucket collecting teams
by completing the online form by
15 June and pledging a number
of volunteers to participate in
the collection.
Volunteer positions are also
available across a range of roles at
the airshow from wayfinding and
public information to supporting
emergency response, with
registration available online. All
bucket collectors and volunteers
receive free parking with Park n Ride
permits supplied each day.
Airbourne 2026 is supported
by Bella & Duke, Cloud Connx,
Eastbourne Hospitality Association,
Eastbourne News, Elite Medical,
Environment First, Euro Self
Drive, Frontier Fireworks, Kent,
Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance,
The Lansdowne, More Radio,
Neighbourhood First, NTB Outdoors,
PRG Marketing Communications,
Pureprint Group, The View Hotel,
Visit Eastbourne and Zephyr Tech.
To volunteer or register
a charity, visit www.
EastbourneAirshow.com/charity.
It’s now time to Subscribe
or renew your
Garden Waste Collections
New subscription year 1 August 2026
to 31 July 2027
Please renew by 15 July to avoid
any disruption to your service.
✓ Pay in full, on-line, by debit or credit card at:
www.wealden.gov.uk/gardenwaste
✓ You can request up to four bins at £66* per bin.
✓ If you don’t have internet access, please call
Customer Services on 01323 443322.
✓ You will be sent a licence sticker to attach to each
brown bin. This should arrive within 10 working
days of payment.
Find further information about our garden waste
service including what can be collected, how
the garden waste is composted and the terms
and conditions at: www.wealden.gov.uk/
recycling/garden-waste-service
* New customers signing up before 15 July will also be charged for the
last quarter of the current subscription year.

10 NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Hailsham Heroes:
Hailsham Bonfire
Society
BY VIKTORIA COWLEY
AS nominations continue to flood
in for the 2026 Hailsham Hero
Awards, we’re continuing our
series celebrating the inspiring
winners from 2025.
Each month we’re taking a closer
look at the individuals, organisations
and businesses whose dedication
helps make Hailsham such a strong
and vibrant community.
This month, we’re highlighting the
Hailsham Bonfire Society, which
received the Group / Organisation of
the Year Award in recognition of its
ongoing contribution to the town and
its commitment to preserving one of
Sussex’s most treasured traditions.
Every October, thousands of people
line the streets of Hailsham to watch
the torchlit procession wind its way
through the town, before gathering
for the spectacular bonfire and
fireworks display.
For many residents, it is one of the
highlights of the year, an event woven
deeply into the town’s identity and
enjoyed across generations.
But behind the flames, fireworks
and atmosphere, is tireless
months of work carried out
entirely by volunteers.
Hailsham Bonfire Society has
become one of the town’s bestloved
community organisations,
bringing together people of all ages
in celebration of Sussex’s historic
bonfire traditions while also raising
money for important local causes.
The annual celebrations
commemorate the failure of the
Gunpowder Plot of 1605, a tradition
that has become an iconic part of
Sussex culture over the centuries.
In Hailsham, the modern society
has gone from strength to strength
since reforming in 2005, recently
celebrating its 20th anniversary with
what many described as its biggest
and best event yet.
Hundreds of participants from
bonfire societies across Sussex
joined the procession, with crowds
gathering throughout the town
centre before heading to the Western
Road Recreation Ground for the
evening finale.
The scale of the event is
impressive, but so too is the
amount of preparation involved
behind the scenes.
From organising road closures
and safety measures to fundraising,
logistics, costume preparation and
event coordination, planning begins
long before the first torch is lit.
The society is entirely volunteerled,
with members dedicating their
own time to ensuring the event can
continue year after year.
Events on this scale are also
expensive to stage, with significant
costs involved in delivering the
fireworks display, insurance, safety
management and infrastructure
needed to host thousands of
visitors safely.
The society continues to rely
heavily on donations, fundraising
and community support to make the
event possible.
If every resident who comes out to
enjoy the evening donated just £1, this
would secure the future of this long
tradition in the town.
While Bonfire Night is the society’s
flagship event, its work extends far
beyond a single evening in October.
The organisation actively supports
charitable causes and uses its events
to help raise awareness and funds for
local organisations.
This year’s nominated charities
included Children With Cancer Fund
and Inspire Sussex, both of which
provide vital support within the
local community.
One of the things Hailsham Bonfire
Society is particularly proud of is its
commitment to encouraging younger
members to become involved.
The society runs a junior
section, helping introduce
younger generations to Sussex’s
unique bonfire heritage and
ensuring traditions are passed on
into the future.
By welcoming new members and
involving younger volunteers, the
society continues to evolve while
still preserving the customs and
atmosphere that make Sussex bonfire
celebrations so distinctive.
It is this balance of heritage and
renewal that has helped keep the
society thriving for two decades.
Recognition from
the community
WHEN Hailsham Bonfire Society
was nominated for a Hailsham
Hero Award, members were
already honoured to have been
recognised by the public.
Winning the Group / Organisation
of the Year Award made the moment
even more meaningful.
A Spokesperson from the society
said: “Firstly, to be nominated as a
society for a Hailsham Hero Award
was amazing, let alone winning the
Group Organisation Award.”
The society explained that being
chosen by local residents made the
recognition especially important.
They added: “It was a reward from
the public to us and shows their
appreciation for Bonfire Night. We
were so proud as a society to have
won this award, and having the public
choose us makes all our hard work so
much more worth it.”
Preparations are already underway
for another exciting year for the
society with the popular Flaming Fun
Day returning on 28th June.
While this year’s Bonfire Night
celebrations are set to take place on
17th October, when Hailsham Bonfire
Society will once again light up the
skies above the town.
As always, the society hopes local
residents will continue to support
the tradition that has become such
an important part of community
life in Hailsham.
Stories like this are exactly why
the Hailsham Hero Awards exist
— to recognise the volunteers and
organisations whose dedication helps
bring communities together.
For many people, Hailsham
Bonfire Society represents far
more than fireworks and torchlit
processions. It represents
teamwork, heritage, community
spirit and countless volunteer hours
given freely to create something
memorable for others.
As nominations open for the
2026 Hailsham Hero Awards,
residents are encouraged to think
about the groups and individuals
whose efforts continue to make
Hailsham such a strong and
connected community.
Because behind every flaming torch
and every firework bursting across
the night sky are volunteers working
tirelessly to keep the tradition alive
for future generations.
To nominate a local group/ charity
or person for the 2026 Hailsham
Hero Awards, simply visit
www.hailshamhero.co.uk
Bob Sandells from Hailsham Bonfire Society collects the award

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 11
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12
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Weekend in
Bath and Bristol
4 Day break staying at the
Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Centre
from £441
31st July 2026
Gower Peninsula @ Pixaby
• Bristol Packet Boat Trip
• Guided Tour of Aerospace Bristol
• Visit to Bath with free time to explore this beautiful city
• Home pick up
Secure online or card
payments over the phone
Call now to book your place on
01323 808080 or book online at
www.eastbournecoaches.co.uk
Lighthouse Fostering is continuing its search
for compassionate new foster carers to join its
growing network of dedicated carers across
East Sussex, all supported from its new office in
Heathfield.
This reflects Lighthouse’s ongoing commitment to
strengthening support for foster carers throughout the
county and ensuring that vulnerable children can access
safe, stable, and nurturing homes close to their
communities.
For more than ten years, Lighthouse Fostering has
provided carers with dedicated 24/7 support, specialist
training, competitive financial packages, and an
experienced team that ensures no foster carer ever faces
challenges alone.
Our new East Sussex office means we now offer even
more local, hands-on support to the remarkable people
who open their homes and their hearts to children in
need.
Right now, children across East Sussex urgently need
caring foster families. If you have a spare bedroom and
the desire to make a real difference, you could help
transform a child’s future.
Whether you are ready to begin your fostering journey,
thinking of transferring agency or simply want to find
out more, Lighthouse Fostering is here to guide and
support you every step of the way.
For more details visit our website
lighthousefostering.co.uk or call us
on 01424 320036.

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 NEWS 13
New pitch installed as Beaconsfield
Stadium transformation continues
HAILSHAM Town FC’s new home
at The Beaconsfield has taken
another major step forward, with
the artificial pitch now laid and
fully marked out.
Our aerial image captured by drone
shows the scale of progress being
made at the redeveloped stadium,
which is rapidly taking shape ahead
of its opening.
The completion of the new playing
surface marks a significant milestone
in the project, with work continuing on
the wider redevelopment of the site.
The derelict previous clubhouse
has now been demolished and will
be replaced by a modern new facility
featuring team changing rooms,
two dedicated referee changing
rooms and improved amenities
for spectators.
As part of the development, new
male, female and accessible toilets will
also be installed. The facilities will not
only serve football supporters but will
be available for use by visitors to the
adjoining recreation ground when not
required by the club.

14 BACK IN TIME
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
An Ariel view of Horsebridge Mill, 1947 A view of the mill 1915
Horsebridge Mill: Centuries
of History Behind the Ruins
BY PAUL ENDERSBY
MANY residents of Hailsham,
and in particular those in north
Hailsham, including Horsebridge
and Hellingly, will be familiar with
Horsebridge Mill, which today
stands abandoned and derelict.
Despite this sad ending, it has
had an interesting history and it is
apparent that there has been a mill
at Horsebridge for many centuries.
The first records are dated 1260, when
Richard de Herstbridge pledged to
pay a yearly rental of six shillings to
William Lungivere for the mill and
land at Hurstbridge. In May 1600,
the property was sold to William
Borrowdale, a citizen and merchant
tailor from London. Several
properties were included in this sale,
including the water mill in Hellingly
called Horstbridge Mill. There was
a further sale in 1630 to Anthony
Cruttenden and his son and heir,
also Anthony. The younger Anthony
sold the mill to John Mepham of
Ninfield in 1713.
Further evidence for the existence
of the mill is included in the Hellingly
Parish Register, which records a
drowning in Horsebridge Mill in
1634. Later, in 1792, a scheme was
prepared to construct a canal from
the River Ouse near Beddingham
to Horsebridge Mill to open the
area for trading, but the project
was abandoned. The mill itself took
its power supply from the River
Cuckmere, which passes under it.
DOGGED BY FIRE
Through the years, the mill seems to
have been dogged by several fires.
There was certainly one in 1884,
which was reported in the Sussex
Advertiser dated 30 September of
that year. Following this fire, the mill
was put up for sale by auction fixed
for 21 October 1884, at which time
it seems no attempt had been made
to repair the damage caused by the
fire. The sale details stated that, “the
property comprises the remains of
the well-constructed mill lately burnt
out including the walls, loose fallen
bricks, the large waterwheel, nearly
intact shaft and large cog wheel in
mill, a new 20hp boiler undamaged,
the boiler house and shaft in nearly
perfect state.”
The sale details went on to state that,
“the mill has recently been destroyed
by fire and the owners and occupiers,
being men in advanced years, are not
practical millers, are desirous to leave
the reconstruction to younger hands
and opportunity is thus given to an
energetic man to fit up a new building
with modern machinery under his
own superintendence.”
It is unclear as to who purchased
the mill, but in 1906, there was a
major change in the method of
producing flour at the mill. The

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 BACK IN TIME 15
owners, The Horsebridge Roller
Milling Company, removed the
traditional machinery and installed a
new system which could be driven by
either water or steam. However, the
owners could only use the expensive
steam engine if the water level of
the Cuckmere was low or increased
production was required.
There was a further serious fire on
Sunday, 2 January. However, there
seems to be some confusion as to
whether this was January 1908 or
January 1910. Either way, the mill
was badly damaged. Apparently,
two young men who were passing
saw smoke coming from windows
on the second floor. They quickly
found the manager, a Mr Rankin,
who lived close by and raised the
alarm. A message was sent to
the Hailsham Fire Brigade and a
telephone call was made to the
Eastbourne Brigade in Grove Road. In
the meantime, employees of the mill
made strenuous efforts to contain the
fire using a small hose connected to
a fire hydrant.
A rocket was fired at Hailsham at
12.55pm and, in seven minutes, the
brigade was on its way to the mill.
Using the plentiful supply of water
from the Cuckmere, the firefighters
were able to send a powerful jet
of water through the windows.
However, due to the dense volume of
smoke, it was impossible to enter the
building. The fire continued to spread
at what was described as ‘an alarming
rate’, at which point the Eastbourne
Brigade arrived. Again, there is some
confusion in the records regarding
the length of time it took for them to
arrive from Eastbourne, which vary
from 25 to 57 minutes.
The Eastbourne brigade brought
their horse-drawn pump. This was
already steamed up and ready to
pump because during the journey,
which was at breakneck speed, the
stoker was stood on the rear step,
hanging on with one hand and
stoking the fire with the other to
raise steam for the pumping! They
apparently came from Eastbourne
along the Stone Cross Road, as this
is more level and therefore quicker
for the horses. The alternative was
to have come via the Willingdon/
Polegate road, but Willingdon Hill
and the long pull up Nightingale Hill
at Polegate would have slowed the
horses down. On arrival, the horses
were white with lather and so some of
the local lads unharnessed them and
walked them up and down the road to
cool them off and prevent them from
getting a chill.
THE MCDOUGALL ERA
AND MODERN DECLINE
Despite the best efforts of the two
brigades, the fire had taken such a
hold that it was impossible to save
much of the building. The firemen did,
however, manage to save some parts
of the mill. The Eastbourne Brigade
left at about 5.00pm, but the Hailsham
men remained throughout the night.
The mill was then rebuilt as a
large roller mill grinding corn
from England and also Canada
and Romania, still under the
ownership of the Roller Milling
Company until 1922 when James
McDougall took over the running of
the business. He was the grandson
of Alexander McDougall, a miller
who founded the famous baking
company. James went on to become
chairman of McDougalls.
The mill continued to operate
using water from the Cuckmere and
the old waterwheel was completely
overhauled in 1939. This continued
until 1945, after which the mill relied
on electricity as its power source.
The last owners were Rank Ltd and
the mill continued working until
1969. Although the mill ceased to
operate and the building was largely
abandoned, other buildings on the
site remained in use and the last
owner is listed as the Mill Precision
Engineers, who occupied the newer
buildings opposite.
The mill now stands neglected and
seemingly beyond repair. However,
it has attracted an artist who has
painted two murals at the rear of
the building. They are signed Curio.
However, it is unclear whether this
is the name of the artist or an art
gallery of that name.

16 REGULARS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
SUSSEX POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER, KATY BOURNE OBE
SUSSEX FRAUD VICTIMS LOST £19MILLION
THROUGH INVESTMENT FRAUD LAST YEAR
HOW CAN YOU
KEEP YOUR
MONEY SAFE?
In 2025 across the
UK, there was a 31%
increase in reports
of investment fraud
Katy Bourne OBE compared to 2024,
with nearly 35,000 people becoming
victims and losing an average of
£25,000 each. The City of London Police
have said that £2.4 million is lost to
investment fraud every day — equivalent
to £1,675 every minute.
In Sussex, 662 victims of
investment fraud lost over £19 million
pounds last year.
Police Constable Bernadette Lawrie,
Sussex Police’s Financial Abuse
Safeguarding Officer said the force
had seen “a range of scams being
reported, from fraudulent bond
schemes and trading platforms to
bogus cryptocurrency opportunities.”
Fraudsters often use AI-manipulated
deepfakes on social media which
feature celebrities endorsing
investment schemes.
Victims have been cold-called
by fraudsters posing as reputable
investment companies or banks. They
report being convinced the calls were
genuine because the criminals had
details of existing transactions and
investments and personal details — some
of which they can harvest from people
oversharing on their social media posts.
Report Fraud is the new national
platform for reporting cybercrime
and fraud to police. They have issued
advice on spotting the warning signs of
investment fraud. These include: being
contacted out of the blue via ‘phone,
email or social media; being pressured
to respond quickly to a time limited
offer; and being promised unusually high
returns. If you can’t find the company
on the FCA register, you should be very
cautious and you should attempt to
verify the company’s identity, location
and regulatory status. If a celebrity
appears to be endorsing a scheme, you
can check on their official website or
search for reports of their image being
misused. It’s worth seeking independent
financial advice and signing up for
Report Fraud alerts.
One of my key responsibilities as Police
and Crime Commissioner is to ensure
there are quality-assured and accessible
services for victims of crime. For over
ten years now I have commissioned
Victim Support to provide multi-crime
support in Sussex, including dedicated
fraud caseworkers. Last year, our Sussex
Fraud Caseworkers received 1,269
referrals and supported 1,162 victims.
Many of these victims, who had already
experienced substantial financial losses,
were vulnerable to further fraud attacks
due to their mental and physical frailties
and adult social care issues.
Over the last year, our Fraud
Caseworkers were able to help many
of these victims and recover £125,000
from banking institutions — bringing the
total recovered for Sussex victims over
three years to £2.75 million pounds.
Sussex Police was a trailblazer in
tackling fraud and supporting potentially
vulnerable people. Operation Signature,
which is led by PC Bernie Lawrie, has
been adopted by police forces nationally
as the right way to recognise victims
of all types of fraud as victims of crime
and to provide preventative measures
to support and protect them from
further targeting.
Our Victim Support Fraud Peer
Support Pilot offers one-to-one, group
work and peer support to vulnerable
fraud victims who have experienced
relationship fraud across London,
Sussex and Kent. ​Relationship fraud
includes any fraud where a relationship
has developed for example: Romance
fraud; Carer fraud; Investment/Pension
fraud; Doorstep fraud; and Financial
abuse by relatives and partners. You can
email them: FraudPeerSupportPilot@
victimsupport.org.uk or call 0303
313 2955 or you can find out more
on my specialist website Safe:Space
Sussex in this section: https://www.
safespacesussex.org.uk/about-differenttypes-of-crime/fraud/
Finally, the East Sussex Fraud
Prevention Group has recently been
established, chaired by Sussex Police.
This means there is now a dedicated
fraud focus across East Sussex too,
building on existing work in West
Sussex and Brighton and Hove. With
criminals using AI tools, deepfake videos
and, with so much of our shopping and
banking and businesses conducted
online, we need all our agencies to
sharpen our awareness of potential
frauds and scams and we need to
encourage all victims to come forward
and report every incident.
Victims who are vulnerable or elderly
should report to Sussex Police by
calling 101. Otherwise, reports should
be made to Report Fraud: https://www.
reportfraud.police.uk/ or by calling
0300 123 2040.
Sussex Police have a useful page
on their website with links to several
organisations who can help: https://
www.sussex.police.uk/advice/adviceand-information/fa/fraud/usefulcontacts-for-fraud-cyber-crime-advice/
Applications for my current round of
Safer in Sussex Funding are now open.
One of the most satisfying parts of
my job is being able to provide modest
financial grants to community projects
where local people have ideas to
prevent crime or improve community
safety. The current round of my Safer
in Sussex Community Fund is now
open and can award grants of up to
£5,000 for projects that meet the
criteria. The closing date for applications
is 6 June 2026.
You can read more and apply here:
https://www.sussex-pcc.gov.uk/getinvolved/apply-for-funding/safer-insussex-community-fund/
or you can
email my team direct: pcc.funding@
sussex-pcc.gov.uk
SussexAirImaging
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FROM ABOVE
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Email: info@sussexairimaging.co.uk | Call: 07970 245934 | Visit: sussexairimaging.co.uk

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 REGULARS 17
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
““The wise traveller is he who is perpetually surprised.” Vita Sackville-West
GARDEN REOPENS WED 25 JUNE 2026
For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk
and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden
AS Head Gardener at Bates Green
Garden, I am fortunate to spend my
days among plants, yet even for those
of us rooted in gardens there is always
something new to learn. A recent
holiday to the Greek island of Kythnos
reminded me of that very powerfully.
Kythnos has a rugged beauty: hillsides
silvered by light, stony paths edged
with wild flowers, and a planting palette
shaped by sun, wind and summer
drought. What struck me most was the
effortless harmony of airy umbels of
wild carrot, flashes of scarlet poppies,
aromatic herbs, bold thistles and the
shimmering movement of grasses. It
was a landscape both tough and delicate,
and I returned to Sussex thinking
many readers might enjoy creating
a small echo of that Greek hillside in
their own gardens.
The good news is that parts of south
east England are better suited to this
look than one might expect. We too
increasingly experience dry summers,
though our winters are much wetter
and colder than those of the Cyclades.
Success depends less on copying Greece
exactly and more on borrowing its spirit
while choosing plants that can tolerate
winter damp. Drainage is the first
consideration. If your soil is heavy clay,
create a raised mound and incorporate
generous quantities of grit, sharp sand
and organic matter. Mediterranean-style
plants dislike sitting in cold, wet soil, so
aim for a lean, free-draining root run in
full sun. A gravel mulch will reflect light,
suppress weeds and keep crowns dry
through winter.
Among the easiest plants to use are
Daucus carota (wild carrot), field poppies
such as Papaver rhoeas, and species of
Malva (mallow). These capture the loose,
spontaneous character of a Greek verge
or hillside. Wild carrot produces frothy
white flowerheads, poppies bring a burst
of red in early summer, and mallows
add saucer-shaped blooms in pink and
mauve. All prefer open, sunny conditions
and relatively poor soil; overfeeding
simply encourages floppy growth. Add
drought-tolerant grasses such as Stipa
tenuissima or Festuca glauca and
you immediately gain the soft, windstirred
texture so characteristic of
Mediterranean landscapes.
For stronger structure, thistles
and spurges are invaluable. Thistles
such as Eryngium or Cirsium provide
architecture and excellent nectar
for insects. Euphorbia characias is
especially useful because it has that
glaucous Mediterranean look yet
generally copes well with our climate
if grown in sharp drainage. The horned
poppy, Glaucium flavum, with its
blue-grey foliage and yellow flowers,
instantly suggests hot coasts and dry
banks. It needs very sharp drainage,
resents transplanting, and can be shortlived
in wet winters, but in the right spot
it is unforgettable.
Two plants on my Kythnos wish list
need more careful thought. Dittany,
Origanum dictamnus, is a delightful,
softly felted herb with pink flowers, best
in a pot or very sheltered raised bed. It
demands excellent drainage and dislikes
winter wet, so I would recommend it
only for a warm, sunny corner or for
gardeners prepared to overwinter it
under cover. Nerium oleander (oleander)
is iconic in Greece, but it is not reliably
hardy in most of inland Sussex. It can be
grown in a large container and moved to
shelter in severe weather, but I would
not suggest it for an open border here.
The secret, then, is thoughtful
selection and restraint. Choose plants
that relish sun, avoid rich feeding, and
water only until they are established.
Cut back grasses and spent stems in
late winter rather than autumn, and
allow a few plants to self-seed, because
that natural scattering is central to the
effect. A Greek-inspired border need
not be formal or crowded; it should
feel open, resilient and full of light. My
holiday on Kythnos was inspirational
not because it offered a planting scheme
to copy exactly, but because it showed
how beauty can arise from simplicity,
toughness and a sense of place. With
careful soil preparation and the right
species, a little corner of south east
England can carry the memory of a
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18 FEATURE
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
A night inside
East Sussex’s most
iconic landmark
BY VIKTORIA COWLEY
ONE hundred years ago, plans
were announced to build a brand
new town on the cliffs above the
Seven Sisters, one of the last truly
undeveloped stretches of coastline
on England’s south coast.
Thankfully, history had other ideas.
Author Rudyard Kipling joined
a campaign led by the Society of
Sussex Downsmen to protect the
land from development. Against the
odds, enough money was raised to
purchase the Crowlink Estate and
preserve the landscape forever.
Today, the Seven Sisters coastline
remains one of the most recognisable
and breathtaking locations in
southern England. Rolling chalk
cliffs, dramatic sea views and the vast
open landscapes of the South Downs
National Park continue to draw
visitors from across the world.
Standing proudly amongst it all
is Belle Tout Lighthouse. For most
of my life, Belle Tout has simply
always been there.
I’ve admired it from the winding
roads around Beachy Head, walked
around it countless times and stood
beneath it in every kind of weather
imaginable. Sometimes it appears
postcard-perfect under blue skies.
Other times it stands wrapped in mist
and sea spray like something from an
old maritime painting.
And yet, despite living only seven
miles away, I had never stepped
inside — until now.
FROM MARITIME HISTORY
TO PERSONAL DISCOVERY
As we turned off Beachy Head Road
and onto the private drive, a sign
reading ‘Access for Guests Only — Belle
Tout Lighthouse’, suddenly made the
whole experience feel very real indeed.
The road climbs steeply uphill,
briefly obscuring the lighthouse
before curving sharply to the right.
And there it is — Belle Tout.
Standing proudly on the clifftop as
though greeting arriving guests with
quiet confidence.
Pulling into the gravelled courtyard
immediately felt exciting. This was
somewhere we’d known all our lives,
yet somehow had never properly
experienced for ourselves.
Owner, Ian, greeted us warmly
at the entrance and explained the
workings of the lighthouse, from
the quirks of the historic front door
lock to breakfast arrangements and,
of course, the jewel in Belle Tout’s
crown: The Lantern Room.
INSIDE THE LANTERN:
A ROOM WITH A VIEW
Our room, The Beachy Head Room,
was calm, elegant and intentionally
understated, allowing the spectacular
views to take centre stage. From one
side, rolling South Downs countryside
stretched endlessly into the distance;
from the other, the English Channel
shimmered beneath dramatic skies.
The tea and coffee facilities were
exceptionally varied and beautifully
provisioned, while luxurious Temple
Spa toiletries added an indulgent
touch that elevated the experience
far beyond what many would expect
from a traditional B&B.
The television in each room is
conveniently set up to watch a
documentary called Build a New Life
in the Country, which was filmed in
2008 and featured the then owners
battle to renovate the building to what
it Is today. It was a good opportunity
to see the struggles they went through
to complete the project, in the hour
long programme.
Exploring the lighthouse itself
became part of the adventure.
Narrow spiralling staircases led to
cosy communal lounges filled with
books, board games and oversized
chairs overlooking the coastline,
before eventually narrowing further
towards the very top of the tower.
And then came the moment
everything builds towards — The
Lantern Room — quite simply, the
ballroom of the lighthouse.
A spectacular panoramic lounge
suspended high above the cliffs,
offering uninterrupted 360-degree
views across the South Downs, Seven
Sisters and English Channel.
The weather on our visit was far
from ideal, with heavy rain and
strong winds battering the coastline
throughout the day. Yet somehow,
the dramatic skies only enhanced the
experience. Sunlight pierced through
mottled storm clouds while seabirds
fought against fierce gusts sweeping
in from the Channel.
Inside, however, The Lantern
Room remained calm, warm and
strangely mesmerising.
As darkness fell, the atmosphere
shifted entirely. The room glowed
softly from within while reflections
bounced endlessly around the
circular windows. Thick blankets
encouraged guests to remain long
after nightfall had swallowed the
coastline outside.
From within Belle Tout’s warmth
and shelter, the experience served
as a powerful reminder of why this
lighthouse has stood watch over the
coastline for generations.
The following morning brought
mist, fierce winds and yet more
dramatic scenery.
Breakfast overlooking the South
Downs towards Birling Gap and East
Dean felt wonderfully peaceful as
walkers battled the weather outside
and birds glided unpredictably
through the air currents.
Modern life rarely gives us
uninterrupted horizons anymore.
Here, however, the landscape
encourages your mind to slow
down completely.
Belle Tout, which roughly
translates as ‘Beautiful Lookout’,
could not possibly be more
appropriately named.
Over the years, the lighthouse
has appeared in productions
including Quadrophenia, The
Life and Loves of a She-Devil, The
Living Daylights, Brighton Rock
and Top Gear, cementing its place
as one of the South East’s most
recognisable landmarks.
Yet despite its fame, Belle Tout
somehow still feels deeply personal.
On leaving, we realised we had
experienced something that would
remain with us forever.
We hadn’t simply visited Belle Tout
Lighthouse — we had lived inside it.
Prices to stay at this unique B&B
depends on the time of year and what
day of the week you choose to stay.
Prices start from £210 per night, it’s
a reasonable price to pay to stay in a
building which cannot be matched
elsewhere and will stay in your
memories for years to come.
To book and more information,
visit www.belletout.co.uk or
call 01323 423185

Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news JUNE 2026 FEATURE 19
Royal Indian’s Bingo Night is
full of food, fun & ‘Vindaloo’
BY VIKTORIA COWLEY
THERE are many things you expect
from a visit to The Royal Indian.
Excellent food — Absolutely, warm
hospitality — always and a lively
atmosphere — without question!
But competitive cries of ‘Vindaloo’,
echoing around a packed restaurant
full of bingo players? Perhaps not.
Yet, somehow, it works brilliantly.
Held once a month and now
rapidly growing in popularity,
The Royal Indian’s Bingo
Night has become one of the
town’s most unexpectedly
entertaining evenings out.
Having now run successfully for
around six months, staff told us
that this particular evening was
their busiest yet and judging by the
atmosphere, it was easy to see why.
Our evening began in classic
Royal Indian style, with drinks,
papadums and relishes arriving
quickly at the tables as diners settled
in and prepared for the night ahead.
Unlike a normal restaurant service,
however, diners are asked to preorder
their meals in advance during
the week before the event.
At first, some people may hesitate
at the idea. After all, many of us like
to browse a menu on the night and
decide in the moment what we fancy.
But honestly? The system works
exceptionally well.
With a full restaurant and bingo
games running throughout the
evening, pre-ordering allows
the entire operation to run with
astonishing efficiency.
There’s no lengthy delay taking
food orders table by table, no kitchen
chaos, and no disappointment if a
favourite dish unexpectedly sells out
halfway through service. Instead,
everything flows seamlessly.
In true Royal Indian fashion, the
service throughout the evening was
slick, attentive and impressively well
organised. Staff moved around the
packed restaurant with what can only
be described as military precision,
while somehow still managing to
remain warm, friendly and relaxed.
Food arrived promptly, drinks
were constantly topped up, and staff
checked regularly that everyone had
everything they needed without ever
making the evening feel rushed.
That balance is incredibly difficult
to achieve in such a busy setting,
but Royal Indian has clearly
perfected the formula.
Then came the bingo.
Paul, brought in specially to host
the evening, arrived complete with
his own PA system, bingo equipment
and full Bingo Master energy,
transforming the packed restaurant
into organised chaos within minutes.
Moving from table to table,
handing out bingo books and
explaining the rules for newcomers,
it quickly became clear this wasn’t
his first rodeo.
Each £5 bingo booklet contained
three separate games, with six cards
per game, meaning six opportunities
to win during each round. Between
our group of five, we somehow ended
up with seven books between us,
which in hindsight may have been
slightly ambitious once the numbers
started flying around the room at
breakneck speed.
Game one featured prizes of one
line winning £10, two lines £20 and a
full house receiving £50 prize money.
But in keeping with the restaurant’s
theme, players didn’t shout ‘Bingo’
when they won; instead, the
victorious cry became ‘Vindaloo’.
Hearing an entire restaurant erupt
into cries of ‘Vindaloo’ throughout the
evening somehow made the whole
event even funnier.
Game two followed the same format
and, much to our excitement, our
table actually managed to win the £20
two-line prize.
Naturally, this only fuelled the
competitive spirit for the final round.
For game three, the stakes increased
to £20 for one line, two lines winning
£40 and a full-house receiving £80!
By this point, the atmosphere had
shifted from relaxed entertainment
to near sporting event levels of
concentration. Eyes narrowed.
Numbers were repeated aloud.
People hovered protectively
over their bingo books while
simultaneously trying to continue
eating and drinking.
It was chaotic, loud, competitive
and enormous fun.
At the end of the final game, once
the Full House had been won and
verified, the entire restaurant erupted
into a chorus of Vindaloo by Fat
Les — the perfect chaotic finale to an
evening that had somehow combined
excellent food, competitive bingo and
complete mayhem in equal measure.
What makes Royal Indian’s Bingo
Night work so well isn’t simply
the bingo itself, but the way the
entire evening has been carefully
thought through.
The pre-order system, the speed
of service, the pacing of the games
and the friendliness of the staff all
combine to create something that
feels far more like a proper event than
simply ‘bingo in a restaurant’.
Judging by the packed restaurant
and buzzing atmosphere, word has
clearly spread quickly.
If you’re looking for an evening
that combines excellent food,
plenty of laughs and the chance to
shout ‘Vindaloo’ at the top of your
voice in public without judgement,
Royal Indian’s monthly Bingo Night
might just be one of Hailsham’s
best nights out.
Contact The Royal Indian
on 01323 442323 or visit
royalindianhailsham.com
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8 1 9 7 5 2 3 4 6
20 PUZZLES
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Who’ll give you a delicious glass of Rosé to enjoy with every main course salad ordered.
Spring time offers : Call 01323 842400 for the answer.
Est 2011
PUZZLES
WORDSEARCH
Fabrics
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.
ACRYLIC
ANGORA
BAIZE
BOMBAZINE
BROCADE
CANVAS
CHINTZ
ERMINE
GAUZE
LACE
LEATHER
LINEN
MOIRE
NEEDLECORD
PLAID
SERGE
SILK
VOILE
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
A
CODEWORD
12 3 10 10 25 11 1 8 19 3 23 2 20 18
23 25 20 5 5 25 20
22 4 11 3 24 17 17 5 15 20 11 9 25 26
13 22 26 3 26 22 3
1 6 20 15 3 8 4 13 24 20 26 5 23
4 20 4 22 1 10 5 1 14
4 13 20 20 8 1 13 21 4 5 7 17 25
25 13 11 5 5 13 20 20
24 1 3 12 20 16 4
25 21 22 13 25 23
P E N I M R E P C A P C P
B L J Y J E E Z I A B T W
G C A O G H Q B L A C E B
V A C I I T N F Y Z I O O
W P O E D A C O R B M J E
Z B D Y W E L B C B M M A
M T E R W L S V A O P X S
C Q N S O G R Z I U D N X
I X S I E C I R Q U V W C
V F S H H N E A N G O R A
O S P A E C E L A K J R E
I V A Q V D I U D V L G P
L H Y S H N Z G I E R I J
E J V Y E E A U O E E U S
P T O N H Y R C S C A N L
26 20 20 16 22 24 20 11
13 1 10 11 3 23
H
1 20 4
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
A
24 1 3 18 7
1 1 17 17 22 4 4
8 13 5 11 5 25 10 13 8 11 3 9 26 20
5 24 26 20 20 26 1
11 20 21 1 24 17 15 5 11 11 7 3 23 10
M
M
H
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Across
1 Despise (6)
4 Women (6)
9 Alongside each other (7)
10 Shorten, curtail (7)
11 Lining of the stomach
of a ruminant used
as food (5)
12 Scarper (5)
14 Limited periods
of time (5)
15 Discontinue (5)
17 Bring dishonour
upon (5)
18 Casual tops (1-6)
20 Consider in detail (7)
21 Very frightened (6)
22 Niche or alcove (6)
Down
1 Scarcity (6)
2 Thin Mexican
pancake (8)
3 Relative magnitude (5)
5 Female stage
performer (7)
6 Decorated with
frosting (4)
CROSSWORD
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
9
11
14
8
10
12 13
15 16
18 19
20
21 22
7 Shriek (6)
8 Ill-fated (4-7)
13 Member of one’s family (8)
14 Flat area in a series
of slopes (7)
15 Juicy fruit, such as
lemon, orange, etc (6)
16 Precious stones (6)
17 Platform (5)
19 Polynesian rain dance (4)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in
such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal
row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.
1 4
5 9 6 8
3 2 5 9
8 6 1 3 9
1 4 2 7 5
9 3 7 4
7 8 5 2
8 9
17
SOLUTIONS
1 8 2 3 7 4 6 9 5
7 6 4 8 9 5 1 3 2
9 3 5 2 6 1 8 7 4
6 9 1 4 2 7 5 8 3
2 7 3 5 8 9 4 6 1
4 5 8 6 1 3 9 2 7
3 2 6 1 4 8 7 5 9
5 4 7 9 3 6 2 1 8
8 1 9 7 5 2 3 4 6
8 9
SUDOKU
Z I G G U R A T J I N X E D
N U E O O U E
S C R I M P P O W E R F U L
H S L I L S I
A B E W I T C H M E L O N
C 1 E C S A G4
O A Q
C H E E T A H V C O Y P U
5 9 6 8
U H R O O H E E
M3 A2 I Z E K C H5 A9
G R I N
U V 8 S6 H1 U3N 9 A E C
L E E K S M E R M A I D Y
A A P P S C C
1 4 2 7 5
T H O R O U G H T R I F L E
O9 3 M L E E7 4 L A
R7 E V A M8 P 5W O R R2
Y I N G
© Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)
CODEWORD
D E T E S T L A D I E S
E O C S C C C
A B R E A S T T E R
R T L A B R I D G E
T R I P E R E A
H L C S C R A M
L T E R M S E
C E A S E O L J
I R S S H A M E
T S H I R T S T T W
R U A E X A M I N E
U L C D G V L
S C A R E D R E C E S S
CROSSWORD
P E N I M R E P C A P C P
B L J Y J E E Z I A B T W
G C A O G H Q B L A C E B
V A C I I T N F Y Z I O O
W P O E D A C O R B M J E
Z B D Y W E L B C B M M A
M T E R W L S V A O P X S
C Q N S O G R Z I U D N X
I X S I E C I R Q U V W C
V F S H H N E A N G O R A
O S P A E C E L A K J R E
I V A Q V D I U D V L G P
L H Y S H N Z G I E R I J
E J V Y E E A U O E E U S
P T O N H Y R C S C A N L
WORDSEARCH

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22 HAILSHAM TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
HAILSHAM TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
Town Mayor elected
at Annual Meeting
CLLR Chris Bryant was re-elected as
Town Mayor and Chair for a second
consecutive year at the council’s
Annual Meeting held on 20 May.
After the meeting, Cllr Bryant
spoke about his ambitions for
the coming year, highlighting
the importance of strengthening
community engagement,
maintaining high-quality local
services and ensuring the council
continues to respond effectively to the
needs of residents.
Cllr Bryant said: “It is a privilege
to continue serving the town as
Mayor, and I’m incredibly grateful
for the confidence my fellow
councillors have placed in me.
Hailsham is a town with a strong
sense of community, and I want to
build on that spirit over the next year
by ensuring the council remains
approachable, active and focused on
delivering practical support where it
matters most.”
“Like many local authorities, we
continue to face financial pressures,
but our priority remains clear — to
provide reliable services, invest
responsibly and work in partnership
with residents, community groups
and local organisations to help
Hailsham thrive.”
Cllr Colin Mitchell has also been
reappointed as Deputy Town Mayor
and Vice-Chair for a second term.
Report It, Stop It:
residents encouraged
to report vandalism
THE Town Council is reminding
residents to make full use of its
online vandalism and graffiti
reporting system, as incidents
across the town continue to put
pressure on public resources and
community spaces.
The reporting scheme allows
members of the public to quickly flag
damage to Town Council-maintained
property using a straightforward
online form: hailsham-tc.gov.
uk/report-damage-to-towncouncil-property/
In light of the rise in incidents,
including at the children’s play area
next to the Western Road Recreation
Ground, residents are urged to report
any vandalism immediately to Sussex
Police by calling 101, as
well as submitting details through
the Council’s own reporting system.
Prompt reporting plays a key role in
helping teams respond quickly and
prevent further damage.
A full list of sites is available at
hailsham-tc.gov.uk
Tony Lee, Operations & Facilities
Manager, said: “Every report we
receive helps us build a clearer
picture of where problems are
happening and ensures we can
respond as quickly as possible. When
residents take a moment to report
what they see, it directly helps protect
the places we all share.”
“Working together in this way is
one of the most effective ways we can
tackle vandalism and keep Hailsham
a place people are proud of.”
Hailsham to celebrate
Sussex day with free event
THE Town Council will be marking
Sussex Day with a vibrant free
community celebration in Vicarage
Field and Hailsham High Street on
Saturday 20 June, from 9am to 3pm.
Celebrating the rich heritage and
culture of Sussex, there will be a wide
range of market stalls, refreshments,
a beer tent and a full schedule of
performances throughout the day
including maypole dancing by local
Brownies and musical performances
from Hailsham Choral Society, the
Sussex Stompers and the Long Man
Morris Dancers.
There will also be mini dance
performances from Holdance
Studios, close-up magic, balloon
modelling and a Punch and Judy
show performed by Jonathan Cann.
Local radio station Hailsham FM
will provide live coverage and music
throughout the celebrations.
To ensure the safety of visitors and
participants, Hailsham High Street
will be closed to traffic from 7am to
5pm on the day of the event.
Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts said:
“Sussex Day is a wonderful
opportunity to celebrate our
county’s heritage while bringing
people together to enjoy local
entertainment, traders and family
activities. We also hope our
businesses will embrace the occasion
by decorating their shop windows
and helping to create a vibrant
and festive atmosphere across
the town centre.”
HAILSHAM TOWN COUNCIL
Inglenook, Market Street, Hailsham, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702
Email: enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk
Website: www.hailsham-tc.gov.uk
Facebook: @hailsham.towncouncil.3
X: @HailshamTC • Instagram: @hailsham_town_council • TikTok: hailshamtc

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ORCHARD END - £724,995
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HORAM GROVE - OFFERS OVER £499,950
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GUIDE PRICE £800,000
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SHETLAND CLOSE £339,950
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LAURA STEVENS
47 HIGH STREET, HAILSHAM, BN27 1AN
CALL 01323 840444 or visit stevensandcarter.co.uk

24 REGULARS
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
HAILSHAM ACTIVE with Steve Wennington
A RUNNING TRACK FOR HAILSHAM ACADEMY?
RECENTLY, Hugh Thomas (fellow
director of Hailsham Active) and
I, met up with Anna Robinson and
Amanda Dennis, Head and Estate
Manager of Mark Education Trust
(Hailsham Academy).
We were talking about a wish list
of opportunities to improve sports
and recreation at the school and Anna
mentioned a running track.
It wasn’t on our radar, but actually,
the more we thought about it, the
more it made sense.
Running is now a really fast-growing
sport and is available to all abilities, so it
ticks a massive box for the community.
Hailsham Harriers are the Sussex Grand
Prix champions again, 4th year in a
row, so we have a great community
support network.
Wealden planned for a running track at
Welbury Farm back in the early 2000’s
and it only got cancelled because of the
financial crash of 2008, so there was a
recognition of need even 20 years ago.
SO WHAT ARE THE OBSTACLES?
Cost of course, a proper running
track is not cheap, but the concept of
community sport fits into the Wealden
funding model and they have shown
a commitment to supporting our local
schools with the upgrade for the Hockey
Pitch (Hailsham), and 3g football etc
at Crowborough.
In fact, at the opening ceremony of the
newly refurbished Hockey Pitch, Kelvin
Williams, of Wealden District Council
said the council would be very keen to
support other projects for the school, so
the door appears to be open.
MATCH FUNDING
Hailsham Town Council has shown
a willingness to support some of the
town’s sports projects with funding
for Cricket, football, boxing and
hockey, all recent examples of a
collaborative approach.
MAINTENANCE
Hailsham Harriers currently have
to use the Eastbourne track as the
nearest venue and would obviously
love to switch to Hailsham and pay the
appropriate fee for hiring. Many other
sports clubs would do the same, adding
to the college’s community use targets.
NEXT STEPS
We need to draw up a plan of how it
would look, identify costs, and see who
would support it.
This would also tie in with a few other
minor upgrades to facilities at the school
(upgrade of netball courts, extra safe
storage areas etc).
Max Dyer, Head of PE said ‘An
athletics track would be a dream come
true, giving students the opportunity
to use the facility most of the year and
enabling us to host events such as the
Preliminary South Downs Partnership
annual athletics event, involving 12
secondary schools from Eastbourne,
Seaford, Newhaven and Peacehaven.
It would also create opportunities
for local primary schools to access
and benefit from the facility. With the
support of the council (Wealden and
Hailsham), this could really put Hailsham
athletics back on the map’.
On a final note, Hugh and I were really
impressed with the vision that Anna has
for re-energising Hailsham Academy
to the school it can be. We also know a
number of key staff at the school, and
there is a positive energy that is already
turning things around. We must do all
we can to support the initiatives and
enthusiasm of this team
CANCER REFERRAL AND
REHABILITATION
Freedom Leisure Hailsham has launched
a new cancer referral and rehabilitation
programme to help individuals rebuild
strength, confidence, and wellbeing
before, during and beyond treatment.
The programme offers supported
sessions in a welcoming environment,
helping people feel more confident as
they return to exercise. It is designed
to be accessible, with low-cost courses
and discounted membership options
at completion. Referrals are simple—
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Chris, Freedom Leisure Hailsham’s
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during treatment and beyond.
If you have any questions or would
like to contact the team call 01323
846755 or email gphailsham@
freedom-leisure.co.uk.
WHAT CAN YOU AFFORD?
I know that many times, people can’t
afford the ongoing monthly membership,
or they would like an alternative, maybe
a smaller environment.
We are liaising with the Freedom
team to give alternatives at the end of
the course for those that need a lower
cost option (Hailsham Active can point
you in direction of low cost exercise
classes with great friendly people)
or indeed those that may want more
specialised support such as with Natalie
at Fortior Fit.
It’s really important to find something
to help you after the initial sessions.
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CELEBRATING LOCAL PEOPLE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Know someone extraordinary in Hailsham?
A volunteer, fundraiser, young achiever or community champion?
NOMINATE YOUR LOCAL HERO TODAY
THE 2026 CATEGORIES ARE:
Outstanding Young Person Award
Business Contribution of the Year Award
Fundraiser of the Year Award
Charity of the Year Award
Group / Organisation Award
Special Recognition Award
Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award
THE AWARDS NIGHT:
Wellshurst Golf & Country Club
Friday, 13th November, 2026
NOMINATE NOW AT HAILSHAMHERO.CO.UK
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
EVENT SPONSORED BY
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HAILSHAM
HailshamNews
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR HAILSHAM, HELLINGLY & SURROUNDING AREAS

26 SPORT
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Boxing Club celebrates
new home opening
HAILSHAM Boxing Club officially
opened the doors to its new facility
in May, completing a journey from
uncertainty to a brand new home.
The club welcomed a large crowd
of supporters on opening night at
its new premises on Station Road
Industrial Estate, including local
MP Nusrat Ghani and Hailsham
Mayor Chris Bryant, as residents,
businesses, councillors and
members gathered to celebrate the
milestone moment.
The evening marked the
culmination of a challenging period
that, at one stage, had placed the
club’s future in serious doubt.
Founded during the COVID-19
pandemic, the club began in humble
surroundings, operating from a field
during a time when many people
were struggling. What started as
a place to train quickly grew into
a vital community hub, offering a
safe space, support network and
a pathway for both young people
and adults to rebuild confidence
and discipline.
However, that progress was
threatened nine months ago when
the club’s previous premises were
declared unsafe, forcing sessions to
stop and leaving its future hanging
in the balance.
Support from partners, including
Empire Fighting Chance and
Matchroom Boxing proved crucial
in helping the club regroup
and push forward.
At the same time, efforts were
underway locally to secure a
long-term solution.
Steve Wennington from Hailsham
Active, highlighted the scale of
the challenge, revealing the club
had come close to folding due to
its premises no longer being fit for
purpose and its lease running out.
He described how a long effort to
find a new home had led to a difficult
but ultimately successful proposal for
Hailsham Town Council to subsidise
a commercial rent.
The move, initially met with some
resistance, was eventually approved
unanimously by councillors,
recognising the club’s impact
on the community.
That decision paved the way for
the club to secure its new base
on the Station Road Industrial
Estate, a facility expected to
house two full-size boxing rings
alongside a gym.
Reflecting on the opening, Sam
Buchanan said the support received
had been overwhelming.
“To stand in our new facility
surrounded by so many amazing
people was a very proud and
emotional moment.
“Through resilience, determination
and strong community backing, the
club has not only survived — but is
now entering what it believes is its
most exciting chapter yet.
The journey has already produced
a national champion, with a new
generation of talented boxers now
coming through the ranks.”
But organisers stress the
club’s purpose goes far beyond
success in the ring.
Sam added: “Hailsham Boxing Club
has never just been about boxing,
it’s about changing lives, building
confidence and giving people
a path forward.
For more information on
the Boxing Club, visit
www.hailshamboxing.club
Dame Kelly Holmes celebrates
Abbot’s Wood parkrun launch
MORE than 340 runners, joggers and walkers
gathered at Abbot’s Wood for the successful
launch of the area’s newest parkrun event
— three years after the original vision was
first conceived by Event Director (ED)
Chris Findlay-Geer.
A total of 347 people took part in the inaugural
5km community event on Saturday. 9th May,
which winds through the scenic Forestry
England site near Arlington, featuring
woodland trails, gravel paths and stunning
countryside views.
The launch was made even more special by
the attendance of Olympic champion Dame
Kelly Holmes, who joined participants and
volunteers to celebrate the occasion and
support the new event.
Following the run, commemorative cakes
specially baked for the launch were enjoyed by
attendees, helping to create a real community
atmosphere at the finish area. Dame Kelly also
stayed after the event to chat with participants
and volunteers, pose for photographs and
congratulate the team behind the new parkrun.
Abbot’s Wood parkrun has been several years
in the making, with ED Chris first identifying the
site as a potential location for a parkrun around
three years ago.
Speaking after the inaugural event, Chris said:
“It’s incredible to finally see the vision become a
reality. There has been a huge amount of work
behind the scenes from so many people to get us
to this point, and seeing 347 people enjoying the
course today made it all worthwhile.”
The project received vital backing from
local running clubs, volunteers and
Forestry England, who worked together to
help finance and support the event setup.
Community fundraising and local support
played a significant role in helping the event
become operational.
Chris added: “This event simply would not
exist without the support of the local running
community, Forestry England and our amazing
volunteers. parkrun is about inclusivity,
community and wellbeing, and it was fantastic
to see people of all ages and abilities taking
part together.”
The event team also paid tribute to the
volunteers who made the launch possible,
including marshals, timekeepers, barcode
scanners, tail walkers and setup crews.
Abbot’s Wood parkrun will now take place
every Saturday morning at 9am and organisers
hope it will become a long-term fixture for the
local community and visitors alike.
For more information visit
www.parkrun.org.uk/abbotswood

Join us for
our next
event
Bowes House care home,
Hailsham
Let’s talk about dementia
Tuesday 26th June 2026
2pm - 3.30pm
We will shine a light on some aspects
of dementia that you’re not often
told about, why a loved one might be
behaving differently and what you
can do to support them.
Trusted to care.
To book please call
01323 315137 or email
lisa.phillips@careuk.com

28 SPORT
JUNE 2026
Latest local news, visit: hailsham.news
Sport
Hellingly celebrates
back-to-back league glory
BY OWEN HUGHES
THE dust has settled on the 2025/26
campaign, and the verdict is
clear: Hellingly Rugby Club has had
a fantastic couple of years.
For the second consecutive season,
silverware is coming back to Lower
Horsebridge, proving that when a
group of mates plays for the sheer
love of the game, good things happen.
Following last year’s brilliant
achievements, our fantastic 2nd XV
absolutely exceeded expectations
this season, enjoying a run to finish as
league Champions.
Winning back-to-back league titles
across different senior squads over
the last two seasons shows exactly
what this club is built on: friendship,
a great team spirit, and a genuine
passion for grassroots rugby. The
whole town should be incredibly
proud of the boys for bringing the
trophy home while keeping the true
spirit of social rugby alive.
Our brilliant Junior section, ages
5–11, has officially wrapped up a
spectacular year of rugby. From
muddy winter Sunday mornings to
brilliant tournament showcases across
Sussex, including great recent runs
at Haywards Heath and Lewes, our
young players have done us proud.
The boots are getting a well-earned
wash, and the Minis are now on their
summer break. A massive thank you
goes out to every parent, coach, and
young player who brought so much
energy to the club this year. Enjoy
the summer, we will see you all back
on the pitch this September to do it
all over again.
We might be a social club, but we
do love getting back out on the pitch
together. If you are looking to dust
off the cobwebs, enjoy a bit of light
fitness, and have a laugh with a great
group of people ahead of the 2026/27
campaign, we want you down here.
Senior Pre-Pre-Season training kicks
off this week. We are an incredibly
welcoming club, so whether you are
a seasoned player, someone looking
to return to the game, or a complete
beginner who fancies a social runout,
come along.
While the regular Sunday mornings
are paused, the club isn’t going
completely quiet for the kids. The
Junior management team will be
hosting a series of special pop-up
events throughout the pre-season to
keep the squads connected and active
over the summer.
These events will lead us right into
the big one, our first-ever Hellingly
Minis Invitational Festival this
coming October for the Under 8s
and Under 11s. The planning is well
underway, invitations are out, and it
promises to be a wonderful day for
our Junior section.
A final shout-out to our incredible
volunteers, the clubhouse crew, the
committee, and the coaches who
gave up their spare time behind the
scenes to make this season possible.
You keep the wheels turning, and
the club wouldn’t exist without your
kindness and effort.
We are incredibly excited to
announce the launch of our brandnew
website, Hellinglyrugby.com,
which has all the latest festival news
and schedules as they drop.
This is now the central place for
everything Hellingly. Whether you
are a player checking fixtures, a
parent looking for Minis updates, or
a local supporter wanting to see what
we are about, everything you need
is now just a click away. Head over,
bookmark the page, and take a look
around. It is a brilliant new home for
the club’s digital footprint.
Whether you’re a senior player
looking for a proper social club or
a parent looking to get your child
into a thriving, supportive team
sport, Hellingly is the place to be
with Seniors (18+): Tuesdays at
7:00 pm and Minis (Ages 5–11):
Returning September.
Cricket Club thriving as
new season hits full swing
BY ROB WILKINSON
THE cricket season is firmly
underway at Hailsham Cricket Club,
with the club continuing to grow
both on and off the field as hundreds
of players, families and supporters
enjoy a busy summer of cricket.
Junior cricket is booming at the
club, with more than 100 young
players aged between four and
16 taking part in weekly training
sessions and competitive matches.
Boys and girls from across the
local community are turning out
in record numbers as the club
strengthens its reputation as one of
the area’s leading environments for
youth development.
The senior section is equally active,
with five senior teams representing
the club across Sussex league cricket,
alongside two ladies teams and a
number of midweek sides catering
for players of all ages and abilities.
Club officials say the continued
growth reflects the welcoming
atmosphere and strong
community spirit that surrounds
cricket in Hailsham.
A club spokesperson said: “This is
one of the busiest and most exciting
periods the club has seen for many
years. From Dynamos and junior
training right through to senior
cricket and the women’s game, there
is something happening almost every
day of the week.”
Away from the pitch, the club’s
thriving bar continues to attract
members of the local community
and is open to the public on
Saturday and Sunday afternoons
throughout the season.
Anyone interested in joining
Hailsham Cricket Club as a player,
social member, volunteer or club
official can contact the club via email
at hailshamcc@outlook.com or by
phone on 07980 146841
Tennis Fun in the
Bank Holiday Sun
BY MANNY GALITZINE
HAILSHAM Tennis Club’s members
braved the Bank Holiday heatwave
to play an American tournament
(their favourite).
The players’ names all go into a hat
and random pairs play against each
other, swapping partners
halfway through and keeping their
own individual scores.
Tournament director, Chris
Witt, then calculates the best
performing players and puts
them into a final. The club were also
celebrating their Social Secretary,
Bridget Dodman’s 80th birthday,
and miraculously she found
herself in the final.
After the final, Chris extrapolated
the numbers and the winners
were declared to be Sean
Chea and Mary Srey.
Then all the players retreated to the
shade of the clubhouse and shared a
communal meal with delicious titbits
provided by all, including a birthday
cake for Bridget.
Watch out for the club’s Open Day
on 28th June, when you can come
down to the courts (behind the
cricket pavilion on the Western Road
Recreation Ground) and try tennis
for yourselves.
If you like it, there’s a great halfprice
deal on annual subscriptions
for new members.