Crowborough News, July 2026, Issue 12

1ST ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
JULY 2026 | ISSUE 12
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2 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
WELCOME
AND there it was, in the blinking
of an eye…Crowborough News first
year complete! On page 25 you’ll
be able to read more about those 12
months and the story behind this
community newspaper.
But I also want to use this column
to say a huge thank you to all the
advertisers, readers, and local
organisations that have supported
us along the way, without whom we
wouldn’t be able to do what we do.
As you’ll find out, Crowborough
News was never planned. In early
2025 I felt Crowborough needed
to celebrate itself a bit more. So I
started using social media to promote
local organisations, achievements
and events. That resonated with a
lot of people — and I mean a lot. And
once the snowball was rolling…!
I said from the outset this was very
much a local community initiative
with the intention of informing
and celebrating that community,
galvanising it when necessary, and
bringing people together. It came
from my personal strong belief in the
strength of community and the role
we all have to play in it.
When people open Crowborough
News I want them to see people
and places they recognise, read
about issues they want to be
involved with, and relive events
they’ve been part of.
Over the year I have met some
properly amazing people and I hope,
as we have told their stories, we have
inspired you — this is our town, our
home, our community.
Iain Luxford, Editor
THE TEAM
IAIN LUXFORD — EDITOR
editor@crowborough.news
PAUL GIBSON — REGIONAL EDITOR
paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
JAKE HEASMAN — SPORTS REPORTER
editor@crowborough.news
DEAN COOK — PRODUCTION
design@magazineproduction.com
CONTACT
ADVERTISING SALES — 01892 577124
sales@crowborough.news
Crowborough News is a publication by Regional
Media Group Ltd, a company registered in
England and Wales number: 13746177. We have
taken care to ensure that the information in this
newspaper is correct. Neither the publisher,
nor contributors can take responsibility for loss
or damage resulting from errors or omissions.
Crowborough News does not endorse the
accuracy of the advertisements or the quality of
the products/services being advertised.
Information provided by businesses and
community organisations are provided directly
by their own representatives; please direct any
queries or comments regarding content directly
to the organisation. Any opinion or views
expressed within this publication are solely
those of the author. © 2026: No part of this
newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole
without express permission of the editor.
Vital youth service
future uncertain
BY IAIN LUXFORD
A youth service which provides vital
support and advice to more than 900
Crowborough young people each
year faces an uncertain future.
Clued-Up, a charity which shares
a building with the now closed
Lloyds Bank, has appealed to East
Sussex County Council (ESCC) to
safeguard its future.
Its immediate problem is its
premises. The landlord of the
building — the old Regent Cinema
— is happy for the charity to stay
but is asking for an annual rent
increase of approx. £3,000 — a rise
of almost 30 per cent. This is money
it doesn’t have.
Crowborough Town Council funds
50 per cent of the charity’s budget but
the longer term issue it also faces is
the funding it receives from Wealden
District Council. This is set to end
in 2028 with the district council set
to be abolished and replaced with a
single unitary authority for the whole
of East Sussex.
Creative
fun across
bridges
generations
MEMBERS of Crowborough Beavers
spent an afternoon at Heather View
Care Home recently. The youngsters
enjoyed finger painting and then
planting flowers with residents.
A spokesperson for Heather
View said: “The residents really do
enjoy the company of the younger
generation and their wonderful
enthusiasm. Everyone had a fabulous
time enjoying the fresh air and
sunshine. It was a lovely afternoon
full of smiles, laughter, creativity, and
friendship between generations.”
In a Crowborough News story last
month about the lack of ESCC youth
services in Crowborough compared
to Heathfield, Uckfield and on the
coast, the county council said: “We
remain committed to working flexibly
and creatively to support families in
Crowborough...” and it was “working
closely” with Clued-Up.
It provides no funding for Clued-up
however, and Crowborough News
has asked, therefore, what “working
closely” means.
Rosy, the senior youth adviser
and manager of the service said:
“Clued Up supports so many young
people in the town on a wide range
of issues and has done for 20 years.
It used to be that they didn’t know
where to get information or help
— now with so much online our
role is often to help them navigate
through all the information to get the
support they need.”
Clued-Up is open weekday
afternoons and provides a wide range
of advice and support for young
people on subjects such as education,
employment, mental health, money,
and relationships. The drop-in centre
provides free and confidential advice
and emotional support to more than
900 young people from Crowborough
and the surrounding area every year.
It offers 1-2-1 appointments for
confidential advice or acts as a safe
space for children and young adults to
spend time after school or in between
activities to do homework, read, or
just meet with friends.
Rosy added: “So many young people
come here for confidential support
and advice, or to talk about things
they don’t want to talk about with their
school or their parents. If it doesn’t
continue they won’t have anything at
all unless they can get to Uckfield or
Heathfield. That’s not acceptable.”
The charity’s trustee, Richard
Hallett, said he had turned to East
Sussex County Council for help with
funding to help ensure the future
of the service but was still waiting
for a response.
Concerns about the service’s
future have also been raised by
Sussex Weald MP, Nus Ghani, who
visited the centre. Ms Ghani said:
“Clued-Up is a fantastic local asset,
run by a dedicated team of youth
workers offering free, confidential
and non-judgemental advice and
support to young adults in the area.
The Crowborough drop-in centre is
a great resource and can be used as
a safe space to spend time without a
prior appointment.”
We asked ESCC if it would intervene
to provide the funding to ensure
Clued-Up’s future (especially
given its lack of investment in the
town compared to others). We
also asked what “working closely
with Clued-up meant”, and what
would ESCC provide for young
people in Crowborough if Cluedup
had to close.
A spokesperson said: “Although it
doesn’t fund Clued-Up directly, the
county council’s youth service has
worked closely with the charity for
many years offering practical and
strategic support to help it operate
and develop. We are aware of the
challenges the charity faces as a result
of reductions in external funding.
“With the county council’s own
significant financial challenges,
we are limited in the additional
support we can provide but remain
committed to supporting the charity
within our current capacity. This
includes offering professional
advice and guidance to the Clued-Up
management committee, continuing
the secondment arrangement
for a sessional youth worker,
partnership delivery of a second
youth work session supported by a
county council youth worker, and
identifying and assisting with external
funding opportunities.
“We are committed to supporting
young people across the county,
with a local youth offer provided by
both ESCC Youth Service and CVSE
partners. Our priority is to ensure
that young people in the area have
access to appropriate support within
the council’s limited budget and by
working in partnership with others.”

4 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Minister admits Crowborough
was “failed” over army camp
BY IAIN LUXFORD
THE Government has admitted it
“failed” the people of Crowborough
in how it set up the army camp to
house asylum seekers.
The asylum minister, Alex Norris,
told the House of Commons said
he “deeply regretted” how things
had played out.
Crowborough News broke the story
last autumn after a tip off that plans
were being put in place to house up
to 600 asylum seekers in the training
camp instead of in hotels. The Home
Office, criticised for not consulting
Wealden District Council, local MP,
Nusrat Ghani, or residents, did finally
agree to attend what turned out to be an
angry public meeting.
But despite apologising for the lack
of information and engagement,
AlexNorris MP
there has been little since from the
Government by way of updates
or information.
At Westminster, Mr Norris finally
broke this silence. He told MPs:
“We failed on Crowborough and the
failure is mine.”
The minister told the Home Affairs
Committee: “I’ve had a long time to
think about this and I regret deeply that
parliamentary colleagues and council
leaders found out through the news
rather than from me and other senior
officials about what was taking place.
“That shouldn’t have happened and
it won’t happen in the case of future
sites,” Norris said.
But, while accepting that the Home
Office had not got things right in
the initial stages of setting up the
camp, he added that he didn’t agree
with what critics have said about
the process since.
“WDC, along with the local
community, have quite rightly wanted
to know more at every point, but, while
I appreciate there’s a desire for an
update daily, there isn’t always more to
tell.” He added.
A spokesperson for WDC said: “We
recognise the significant national
challenge of accommodating asylum
seekers and the pressures this places
on government to find solutions.
“However, the lack of timely
information, engagement and clear
operational planning from the
Home Office has made the situation
more difficult for the council,
local community and partner
agencies to manage.
“This approach continues to
contribute to uncertainty and
increased tension locally, which could
be mitigated with earlier and more
open communication.”
Last month we reported the
council had uncovered details in
court papers that two government
departments have agreed between
themselves to allow the camp an
option of remaining open until 2030,
despite repeated promises from it
would be open for no longer than 12
months. The Home Office told us no
decision had been made.
The council said it would “continue
to call for a more coordinated
and transparent approach from
the Home Office”.
Crowborough walkers
complete 50-mile challenge
Rotherfield road
closure complaint
ROTHERFIELD Parish Council
has lodged a formal complaint
after UK Power Networks
closed the main route in and out
of the village.
Church Road was closed by UKPN
on 2 June and East Sussex Highways
confirmed the firm had breached
its road works permit and had been
fined accordingly.
However, the Highways team
accepted UKPN’s explanation
that it had closed the road after an
investigation showed further repairs
needed to be carried out in the centre
of the carriageway just down from St
Denys’ Church.
The closure was scheduled to be in
place until for three days but UKPN
hoped to complete works sooner.
The closure meant unexpected
diversions and changes to public and
school transport.
A spokesperson for Rotherfield
Parish Council said a formal
complaint had been lodged with
UKPN about how the works had been
approached and handled.
The start
A group of walkers from
Crowborough Beacon Golf Club has
conquered a 50-mile challenge and
raised thousands for charity.
The group of club members and
staff joined forces with fellow
adventurers to take on the challenge
of walking 50 miles around the
coastline of the Isle of Wight
in just two days.
The walk was organised in support
of the Beacon Club Captain’s Charity,
Brainstrust a charity that supports
people living with brain tumours and
their families.
On day one, 19 walkers gathered at
the start line in Cowes at 8.30am on
Saturday morning, ready to begin
the challenge.
A spokesperson for the group said:
“The first day was both the longest
and toughest of the two, taking us
along the eastern coastline of the
island. As the miles ticked by, spirits
remained high, but after around
23 miles the challenge became
significantly tougher.
“The weather turned, the rain
arrived, and what felt like an endless
series of hills and muddy fields
stretched out before us. Every step
became harder than the last.”
But worse lay ahead. “We were
greeted by a seemingly endless
staircase near the finish. It quickly
earned the nickname “Stairway
to Hell” and remains one of the
strongest memories from the
entire weekend.
“When we finally crossed the finish
line for the day, tired and soaked,
there was a sense of achievement
mixed with a lingering question in
everyone’s mind: how on earth were
The End
we going to do it all again tomorrow?
Sunday brought a shorter route
around the western side of the
island, but the arduous day one had
claimed some victims. “Of the 19
walkers who started the challenge
on Saturday morning, only six lined
up to complete the second day. The
rest had already pushed themselves
to their limits.”
As the group crossed the finishing
line it had completed 50 miles, 19.5
hours walking, and 3,714 metres of
ascent. But more importantly almost
£12k raised for charity.
The spokesperson added: “Whilst
the statistics are impressive, they
only tell part of the story. The real
motivation behind every step was
supporting a remarkable family
and helping Brainstrust continue its
incredible work.”
The new postbox toppers in Crowborough celebrate the launch of the movie Toy Story 5.
Once again the Sewing Crow-bees and Yarn Bombers have done a fantastic job. This one,
outside Costa, features Buzz, Woody, Jessie and Bullseye. The Sewing Crow-bees and Yarn
Bombers was first set up in April 2020 to make face coverings and masks during the covid
pandemic. Now they make items for charity and keep the community smiling with their
amazing post box creations.

A NEW LIGHT
ON DRY MACULAR
DEGENERATION
TREATMENT
Valeda uses precise wavelengths of light
to help support retinal cells and improve
quality of life for people with Dry ARMD.
REVOLUTIONARY TREATMENT FOR DRY MACULAR DEGENERATION NOW AVAILABLE IN CROWBOROUGH
For many people, good eyesight is something that is taken
for granted until changes begin to affect everyday life.
Reading a newspaper, recognising familiar faces, driving
confidently and enjoying favourite hobbies all rely on
healthy vision.
As we get older, the risk of developing Age-Related Macular
Degeneration (ARMD) increases. ARMD affects the macula,
the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.
The macula allows us to read, recognise faces, watch television
and carry out tasks requiring fine detail.
There are two forms of ARMD, Wet ARMD and Dry ARMD.
Dry ARMD is by far the most common. Symptoms can
include blurred central vision, difficulty reading, colours
appearing less vivid and distortion where straight lines
appear bent or wavy.
For many years, treatment options for Dry ARMD have been
limited. Crowborough Opticians is proud to offer Valeda®,
an innovative treatment designed specifically for suitable
patients with Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration.
‘For many years, patients with Dry ARMD have had very limited
treatment options available to them. We are delighted
to be able to offer Valeda treatment locally and provide
suitable patients with access to innovative technology that
may help support their vision.’
Matthew Smee, Optometrist
WHY IS ARMD BECOMING
MORE COMMON?
As life expectancy increases, ARMD is becoming increasingly
common. More people are living longer and age-related
eye conditions are affecting a greater proportion of the
population. This makes regular eye examinations more
important than ever.
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing ARMD
including age, family history, smoking and general health.
Whilst it is not always possible to prevent the condition,
early detection can make a significant difference.
LIVING WITH ARMD
Many people with Dry ARMD continue to lead active and
independent lives, but the condition can present daily challenges.
Reading books, newspapers and medication labels
may become more difficult. Some people find recognising
faces increasingly challenging, whilst others notice greater
difficulty driving, particularly in poor lighting conditions.
UNDERSTANDING
PHOTOBIOMODULATION
Photobiomodulation is an area of growing interest within
eye care. Research suggests that carefully controlled wavelengths
of light may help support cellular function within
the retina and encourage healthier retinal activity.
3 TARGETED WAVELENGTHS
590nm Yellow Light
Targets lipotuscin
660nm Red Light
Targets mitochondria
850nm Near-Infrared Light
Penetrates deeper retinal layers
NON-INVASIVE
LIGHT TREATMENT
4
4
4
4
No injections
No surgery
Quick sessions
Comfortable & safe
EARLY DIAGNOSIS
MATTERS
Many people are unaware that ARMD can
develop gradually.
In its early stages there may be very few
symptoms, which is why regular eye
examinations are so important.
Modern retinal imaging allows subtle
changes to be detected and monitored
over time.
THE IMPORTANCE OF
MONITORING
Regular monitoring remains an important
part of ARMD management.
Detailed retinal imaging can help identify
subtle changes over time and support
informed treatment decisions.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM
A VALEDA ASSESSMENT
Patients referred for assessment undergo
a comprehensive examination to
determine whether
Valeda treatment is suitable for them.
Detailed retinal imaging and a thorough
discussion of symptoms help ensure that
each patient receives individual advice
and support. Treatment sessions are
straightforward and non-invasive, with
patients remaining comfortable and fully
awake throughout.
SUPPORTING PATIENTS
FOR THE FUTURE
At Crowborough Opticians, our aim is
not simply to provide treatment but
to support patients throughout their
eye care journey. Ongoing monitoring,
personalised advice and access to the
latest technology help patients maintain
confidence and independence.
As research and innovation continue
to develop, there is increasing hope for
people living with Dry ARMD.
Basepoint Business Centre, Room 16, Pine Grove,
Crowborough, TN6 1DH
Call: 01892 489499
reception@crowboroughopticians.co.uk
www.crowboroughopticians.co.uk
BOOK YOUR
ASSESSMENT TODAY
Protect your vision. Enhance your life.

6 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Rare bird filmed live for
the first time from its nest
in Ashdown Forest
BY IAIN LUXFORD
ONE of the rarest birds of prey
in the UK is nesting on Ashdown
Forest and has been sensationally
featured on BBC’s Springwatch
programme — and you can watch a
live stream of the nest.
Presenter Chris Packham couldn’t
hide his excitement as the show cut
live to a hidden camera watching the
nesting pair of honey buzzards laying
eggs. It was the first time a live honey
buzzard’s nest had been broadcast.
He said: “It’s time for a drum roll as
we go live to a honey buzzard’s nest!
Superb! Oh, what a bird, look at that.
We’ve been keeping an eye on this
pair and they are doing really well.
There’s been plenty of activity.”
The footage showed the pair of
extremely rare and secretive birds,
very different from the common
buzzard, feed, mate, and even
showed an egg in the nest. The honey
buzzards feed mainly on wasps
and up to 80 per cent of their diet
is wasp larvae.
As the egg was spotted on camera,
Chris said: “This is the moment of
truth. Yes, look, peer through the
sticks in the nest and you can see
that little bit of russet red — that’s the
colour of a honey buzzard’s egg. Look
at that, down there in Sussex.”
As he closed the item Chris said:
“That’s absolutely sensational. It
was certainly a first for Springwatch
and probably for the UK too.
Honey buzzards on the nest —
absolutely sensational.”
The live filming of the undisclosed
location is thanks to a partnership
between Ashdown Forest, the Sussex
Ornithological Society (SOS) and
Wildlife Windows — a tech company
that specialises in filming wildlife
in remote areas.
The birds are protected under the
Wildlife and Countryside Act, so
the technical crew needed a special
licence to install the equipment before
the birds arrived in the UK to avoid
any disturbance and maximise the
chance of capturing their behaviour
throughout the breeding cycle.
Ashdown Forest Head of
Countryside Ash Walmsley said: “This
is an incredible opportunity to find
out more about the Honey-buzzard.
The more information that we gather
about these birds, the more it will help
us understand and protect them in
the future. While ensuring the safety
of the birds, we also wanted to share
this fascinating species with as many
people as possible. You don’t have to
be a keen bird watcher to appreciate
them. The live cam on our website
will give everyone the opportunity
to reconnect with a part of nature
and to learn more about their
fascinating lives.”
Mark Mallalieu from the Sussex
Ornithological Society (SOS) said:
“Honey-buzzards are the UK’s rarest
regularly breeding raptors. There are
believed to be around 130-150 pairs in
the UK but very few people have been
able to observe their breeding habits
so intimately, observing exactly
what they’re feeding on, nesting
behaviours and in time, what they
will feed their young and hopefully a
successful fledging.”
The Honey-buzzards migrate to
the UK from West Africa in May and
return to their wintering grounds in
September. Each pair normally lays
two eggs and will only have one brood
each summer. The eggs are incubated
for 30-35 days with chicks leaving the
nest after a further 40-44 days.
The Honey-buzzard livestream
can be accessed via the Ashdown
Forest and SOS websites
www.ashdownforest.org
and www.sos.org.uk
Pine Grove
Pictures —
July movies
HAMNET (10 JULY)
In late 16th-century England,
Agnes, a healer sensitive to the
world around her, builds a home
with William, a local tutor and
aspiring playwright. When their
son Hamnet dies, their lives
fracture and they are tested by
distance, silence, and grief.
See behind the scenes at wildlife rescue centre
A wildlife charity on the outskirts
of Crowborough which rescues and
rehabilitates thousands of injured
wild animals each year is opening its
doors to the public.
Set up in the early 1990s by husband
and wife team Annette and Dave
Risby, Folly Wildlife Rescue is now
Full steam ahead for the summer holidays
CROWBOROUGH’S Miniature
Railway is on track for a busy
summer holidays. The railway starts
its summer timetable from 25th July
to 31st August inclusive with train
rides on Saturdays, Sundays and
Bank Holiday Monday 2pm to 5pm.
The excellent miniature railway will
be open for CrowFest as it takes place
in the Goldsmiths Grounds on 11th
July with extended opening hours
from 1pm to 6pm.
The railway is operated by the
Crowborough Locomotive Society
which is keen to promote hobbies and
practical interests whilst operating,
maintaining and improving the
Miniature Railway.
The membership is formed of men
and women of all ages and welcomes
new members to help maintain and
led by sisters Liz Chandler and
Hannah Hall with a team of workers
and more than 250 volunteers.
And now it is inviting people to
book a place for its fundraising
open day which is being held on
Saturday, 25 July 1-4pm.
When the Risbys first started taking
run the railway. Every one of them is
a volunteer, and the organisation is
not-for-profit.
in injured wildlife it was at their
home at Folly Cottage in Eridge. As
word spread about how they would
help wildlife in need of care, more
and more people started bringing in
patients. As the wildlife hospital grew
and grew, fundraising began for a
dedicated wildlife hospital building.
The raised dual gauge (three and a
half and five inch) track runs around
the Crowborough Centenary Boating
Finally the dream became a reality
and in 2012 Folly moved into its new
home in the Broadwater Forest.
It has some high profile supporters
including Hollywood A-lister, Johnny
Depp. To book a place at the open
day visit: https://fundraising.fwrt.
org.uk/event/open-day
Lake and the trains are beautifully
made replicas of full sized engines
of various types.
A spokesperson said: “Many visitors
are shocked to discover the steam
locomotives really do operate on just
steam, there is no electricity to make
them work. We light a tiny fire to heat
the water in the boiler and once we
have enough steam pressure they
work just like a real steam engine
hauling our visitors around our
meandering track.”
Further details for those
wanting to visit for themselves
or who may be interested in
joining the Crowborough
Locomotive Society should make
contact via the website www.
crowboroughminiaturerailway.com
or via Facebook @CroMiniRailway.
Chloe Zhao’s reimagining of
Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling
novel is a contemporary, hugely
lauded work of fiction set in
the historical heavyweight
of Shakespeare’s origin story
of Hamlet. Paul Mescal and
Jessie Buckley are set to stun
us in a rare treat of a costume
drama whose roots are old but
whose body is fresh.
“The film serves as a lovely
reminder of why art is important,
how watching something
can make you feel, make you
understand, make you consider.
The fluidity of movement
allows for every emotion to
sneak up on you”.
Jessie Buckley won Best Actress
award at both the Oscar and
BAFTA awards this year.
Director: Chloé Zhao. Stars: Jessie
Buckley, Paul Mescal, Zac Wishart
www.pinegrovepictures.org.uk/films

8 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Anger at A26 resurfacing
“unfinished” work
BY IAIN LUXFORD
Drivers have taken to social
media to criticise East Sussex
Highways for not completing the
full resurfacing of the A26 between
Eridge and Boars Head.
Motorists have been complaining
for months about the state of the
road and, ahead of the resurfacing
work, East Sussex County Council’s
highways contractor put a 40mph
speed limit in place for safety.
Work replacing the broken and
pitted road surface took place in May
and East Sussex Highways posted
a three minute video on Facebook
showing the extent of the work and
how it had been carried out.
In the post it added: “During
the scheme, we carried out full
resurfacing along with patching
repairs, ironwork adjustments,
gully cleaning, the installation of
high friction surfacing (HFS), and
refreshed road markings to improve
safety and provide a smoother
journey for road users.
“In total, we resurfaced 2,500 metres
of carriageway — the equivalent of
over 222 London buses parked end
to end. We also completed additional
patching works outside of the original
closure area where sections of the
carriageway had deteriorated or were
identified as safety defects.”
However, the video and post
appears to have backfired with many
drivers bemused at why one of the
worst sections of the road — the
piece between Sandhill Lane and
the top of the hill at Boars Head itself
was not touched.
Anna Braithwaite wrote: “You
didn’t finish the job! Don’t go to
all the trouble of closing the road
and doing such great resurfacing
on two thirds of it only to leave the
entire stretch of the carriageway
from Boars Head to Sandhill Lane
in both directions incomplete. The
whole uphill carriageway going
towards Crowborough is a disaster.
Please, please come back and finish
the job properly.”
And she was not alone. Lisa
Williamson added: “It’s not
completed. The bit leading to
Boars head is still a state. Would
be good to have the whole road
actually finished.”
Dean Stocks added: “It looks a
lot better, but I don’t understand
why you didn’t do some of the dual
carriageway that goes up towards the
top of the hill because that will need
doing in another year or so. You’ve
gone all the trouble of doing the rest
of it and you missed that bit — I just
don’t understand the reasoning. I
use the analogy of a leaking bucket.
There’s no point blocking five holes if
you still got a sixth.”
And Dave Pettitt spoke for many
when he wrote: “Job half done. The
top half is shocking now and after
winter is going to be appalling. Do
your celebration once you have
actually finished the job!”
An East Sussex County Council
spokesperson said: “With a limited
budget available for highway
repairs, it’s important that we
carefully prioritise our work and this
sometimes means that extensive
work like resurfacing is carried
out in phases on longer routes. We
recognise that this can result in
our contractors stopping next to
sections that could also benefit from
work, which can be frustrating.
This approach enables us to balance
investment across the entire road
network and ensure that essential
maintenance can also be carried out
as quickly as possible.”
Battle of the
Bands comes to
Crowborough
BUDDING musicians in
Crowborough are being invited to
take part in a new competition to
showcase young talent.
The latest Crowborough Youth Club
and Artytime project in partnership
with Crowborough Social Club is
“Battle of the Bands”.
Bev Pashley said: “We want to have
a showcase for young musicians
in bands to perform live. They can
play original or covers. It’s a great
opportunity for young people and
we are looking for local bands
wanting to take part.
The plan is to hold three heats during
August with bands performing live on
stage with the winners taking part in a
grand final. All finalists will win a cash
prize and the overall winner will get a
trophy as well as the chance to stage a
full gig at the social club.
Anyone interested should contact
bev@artytime.co.uk.
Wine bottles
dumped in forest
car park
THANK you once again to the
volunteers involved with Brighter
Crowborough and its partner
organisation Brighter Ashdown
Forest who continue to be busy
each week collecting litter and
improving our community.
Among the hundreds of bags of
rubbish collected by the groups,
they recently shared an unusual and
remarkable find in a ditch off St John’s
Car Park — more than 50 wine bottles!
Brighter Crowborough, run
by husband and wife duo, David
Collumbell and his wife Doris,
was founded eleven years ago and
is a growing band of like-minded
volunteers who strive to keep streets,
paths, hedgerows, waterways and
woodlands free of litter. They also
manage and maintain the planters at
Crowborough Railway Station.
Its sister organisation, also run by
the Collumbells, Brighter Ashdown
Thirty Days for Tay
Forest is a similar volunteer
community group that partners
with the Conservators of Ashdown
Forest to keep the local landscape
clean, tidy, and free of litter. Working
closely with the related Brighter
Crowborough initiative, the group
regularly tackles remote woodlands,
car parks, and busy road verges in
and around the area.
Both groups meet on a Sunday
morning. For more information visit:
www.brightercrowborough.co.uk
New fire
engine for
village
THE village of Forest Row is set to
get a new fire engine this year.
The upgrade is part of a funding
programme that has seen £7.5
million pounds invested in East
Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s
(ESFRS) fleet and equipment over
the last five years.
This year three of its oncall
fire stations Broad Oak,
Herstmonceux and Forest
Row will receive their brand
new fire pumps.
Louis Thompson, Strategic
Engineering Manager, said: “East
Sussex Fire and Rescue Service
carries out so many different
types of emergency response,
from animal rescues, flooding
incidents, road traffic collisions
and of course fires. Our fleet and
equipment is an essential part of
delivering that. We are already
looking at how new technology
can influence what our future fleet
will look like and how it can help
better serve our communities.”
A Crowborough based charity
which supports children and their
families with life-limiting illnesses
is inviting everyone to get involved
in a special campaign in September.
Taylor-Made Dreams was set up by
Suzi Mitchell in memory of her son,
Taylor, who died after a four year
battle against an incurable illness.
To honour what would have been
Taylor’s 30th year, it has launched
“30daysfortay”, a 30‐day campaign
to raise £30,000 — money that will be
able to fund a full year of its Sibling
Support Service and help launch
its new parent support group in
2027, supporting families when
they need it most.
A spokesperson for the charity said:
“Our aim is to get as many people as
possible pledging to do something
either on one day or on every day
in September, to make as big an
impact as possible, whilst having fun
doing it! September may seem a long
time away, but it’s not too soon to
start planning.”
What will you take on? 30 acts of
kindness in 30 days? 30-minute silent
disco every day (the whole office)?
1930’s fancy dress party? 30 is just a
suggestion, and any fundraiser in
September will support 30 Days for
Tay. TMD’s CEO Suzi, will be braving
the shave and shaving her head
for a fundraiser!
Find out more about getting involved
here: www.taylormadedreams.org.
uk/news/30-days-for-tay

“Congratulations to Crowborough News on your
1st Year Anniversary - It’s been a pleasure supporting you!”
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T: 01892 611811 (24 hours) Email: information@testerandjones.co.uk www.testerandjones.co.uk

10 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Anger as food
waste bin is missed
for ten weeks
A Crowborough resident has
criticised the district council after
his food waste bin went 10 weeks
without being emptied.
Nigel Peacock, who has a flat in
Beacon Road, shares a communal
waste bin with his neighbours
and says it is now smelling and
attracting flies.
He said the bin was emptied the first
week of the new food waste scheme
was ignored since — even though he
has reported it eight times.
Following the intervention of
Crowborough News, Wealden District
Council investigated, apologised and
the bin has finally been emptied.
Only last month Crowborough
News reported how the new food
waste collection service — operated
by Biffa on behalf of the Joint
Waste Partnership which includes
Wealden District Council — had
experienced teething problems
but managers promised it would
“improve dramatically”.
Mr Peacock said even though he had
reported the issue eight times to WDC
by phone, online, and via Facebook,
nothing had been done.
“It should not take eight reports over
several weeks for action to be taken
to remove the smelly, fly-infected
contents of the communal food waste
bin and to fix the weekly collection.
But no action has been taken to
arrange a late collection or to start
weekly collections.”
And he cannot understand why
the communal bin for his block was
being missed. He said: “Food waste
bins outside the other two blocks at
the location are being collected. And
all the normal collections of refuse
and recycling are being collected
on the appropriate days. It is just the
food waste bin that is being ignored.
All bins outside the four flats are in
the same place.”
Mr Peacock said WDC needed to do
more to ensure the contractor does
its job properly. “I am of the opinion
that Wealden is completely inept here
and appears to have zero control over
the contractor.
“On the assumption that Wealden
has passed the (so-called) escalated
reports to the contractor, why
has the contractor ignored their
instructions? Why is the contractor
being paid, and is there a clause in
their contract to reclaim payments for
non-performance?”
A spokesperson for Wealden District
Council said: “We apologise for the
inconvenience caused to residents
by missed food waste collections
at this location and understand the
frustration this has caused.
“Our investigation found that the
issue arose because the precise
location of the bin store was not clearly
known to collection crews. This has
now been identified and addressed.”
She added: “We are working closely
with our contractor, Biffa, to ensure
the bin is emptied as a matter of
urgency. Measures have also been
put in place to ensure all crews
servicing this site are fully aware of
the bin store, so collections resume
as scheduled and continue reliably.
We are confident these actions will
resolve the issue and help prevent this
happening again.”
Well done to members of the All Saints Slimming World Group who took part in the recent Race for Life in Tunbridge Wells. Led by the group
co-ordinator, Mary Watkins, the team raised almost £10,000.
Crowborough
surgeon — one of
the country’s best
A hip and knee surgeon based in
Crowborough has named one of the
best in the country — by his patients.
Mr Andrew Skyrme from The
Horder Centre, secured a place
on Doctify’s ‘UK Top 100 Medical
Professionals List 2026’ for Patient
Experience, based entirely on verified
reviews submitted by his patients.
Doctify, which is a review platform
for patients to rate and review
medical professionals, says “At
present, Andrew is the second busiest
combined hip and knee surgeon in
the UK, performing over 650 joint
replacement procedures annually.”
Its Top 100 list is determined by a
weighted analysis of verified patient
reviews, assessing volume, recency
and consistency of feedback.
Users are prompted to review
several aspects of their experience
from bedside manner to the
cleanliness of the clinic. Reviews
are submitted by verified patients
following their appointments,
ensuring the feedback that
determines a place on the
list is authentic.
A place on this list cannot be bought
or applied for, and with more than
30,000 specialists listed on Doctify
the Top 100 represents the very best
patient experiences in the UK.
Mr Skyrme said: “I am delighted
and honoured to be named among
the Top 100 Specialists in the UK on
Doctify. This recognition reflects the
dedication of my entire team at The
Horder Centre and the exceptional
care we deliver. Seeing patients
achieve good results each day fills
me with immense happiness and
reinforces why I am passionate
about this work.”
Mr Skyrme has received hundreds
of positive reviews to date — with
an average trust score of 4.97/5,
from 832 reviews with hip and knee
replacements amongst his most
popular procedures.
One Doctify reviewer said in their
review: “I had a total hip replacement
which ended months of pain and
allowed me to walk again pain free.
Mr Skyrme gave me confidence
immediately during the first
consultation and throughout the
entire procedure.”
In addition to his Top 100
placement, Mr Skryme also ranked
amongst the Top 5 orthopaedic
surgeons in the list.
Sign up now to
run for Hospice
HOSPICE in the Weald is celebrating
20 years of its annual fundraising
run this year, and it wants
you to join in!
Over the years the community has
come together in support of hospice
care, raising hundreds of thousands
of pounds of vital funds for those
who need it most.
Last year more than a thousand
runners and walkers took part —
raising an astonishing £140,000.
Choose your challenge: 5k, 10k,
Half Marathon — whatever your
ability, you can run, walk, or just
come along on the day to cheer on the
incredible runners.
A spokesperson said: “We ask each
runner to raise £100 for the Hospice.
If you went above and beyond this
and raised £155, this would fund a
three-hour session of care for one
child by two children’s healthcare
Mr Andrew Skyrme
assistants, offering fun and engaging
activities for the child whilst offering
valuable respite for carers.
“If a team of five raised £150 each,
they could fund the cost of our entire
therapies team for a day, offering
physio, occupational therapy, group
classes and securing vital equipment
for patients to make life easier and
more comfortable.”
The event takes place Sunday
morning 20 September at the
Lower Common Cricket Ground in
Tunbridge Wells.
For more information and to
register for the event please visit
the events section of our website
https://www.hospiceintheweald.
org.uk/events/hospice-run-2026/.
Alternatively, you can contact
our fundraising team on 01892
820533, or email fundraising@
hospiceintheweald.org.uk

CASH OR AUCTION
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Gold and Silver Jewellery in any condition
Costume Jewellery • Watches working or not
Coins, Medals and Militaria • Wines & Spirits
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FULL Probate and House Clearance Service in Operation

12 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Could Rotherfield speedwatch
scheme restart?
ROTHERFIELD Parish Council has
made an appeal for volunteers from
the local community to restart the
parish speedwatch initiative.
In a statement about highway
safety across the parish, the council
said it was hoping to restart the
scheme which involves volunteers
using speed detection devices to log
motorists’ speeds. It said it was due
to meet with Sussex Police, but any
scheme would need volunteers.
A spokesperson said: “We are
continuing our commitment to
improving highway safety, transport
infrastructure, and accessibility
throughout the parish by working
closely with East Sussex County
Council, Sussex Police, local
residents, and community partners.”
While responsibility for road
management and maintenance rests
with East Sussex County Council, the
parish council said: “We play a vital
role in identifying local concerns,
gathering evidence, representing
residents’ views, and advocating for
improvements that enhance safety
and quality of life.”
Appealing for volunteers it added:
“One of our priorities is tackling
speed and improving road safety. The
speedwatch scheme would enable us
to gather vital data to share with East
Sussex Highways and Sussex Police.
This evidence helps strengthen the
case for traffic calming measures and
targeted enforcement.”
Speedwatch volunteers receive
training, and support from the
neighbourhood policing team.
They use detection devices to
monitor local vehicle speeds and
report drivers exceeding the speed
limit to the police.
Community speedwatch does not
result in prosecution itself. However,
if a persistent speeding driver is
Charity to benefit from
choir’s concert
identified through the scheme, police
can use this evidence to take action
against them. If there is a persistent
general speeding issue where
highway improvements are required
(eg speed bumps), the relevant
agency will be contacted.
For more information contact
Rotherfield Parish Council at https://
rotherfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk/
Verge cutting
delay explained
THE county council has explained
why the first cut of Crowborough’s
roadside verges was delayed by
almost three weeks.
Each year ESCC publishes a
schedule detailing dates communities
across East Sussex can expect their
verges to be cut. In Crowborough
this should have been 7 May.
However, one concerned motorist
contacted Crowborough News on 26
May to complain.
Jayne Brown said: “I visit an elderly
relative in Southridge Rise regularly
and there’s a bend on a hill with
a junction that, when the verge is
uncut, is so dangerous because
you simply can’t see any other
cars coming the other way or out
of the junction.”
Ms Brown said she was pleased
some verges, especially those in rural
areas, are left to grow out for wildlife
and environmental reasons. “But in
towns when you can’t see other traffic
properly, it’s a safety issue.”
Previously ESCC carried out six
seasonal routine cuts of verges beside
public roads, by roundabouts and
junctions. But in 2024, as part of
budget savings, this was reduced to
two. Town and parish councils were
told they would have to pay more for
ESCC to do more, or do it themselves.
When approached by Crowborough
News on 26 May, a spokesperson
for the county council said the cut in
Crowborough had now begun.
She said: “We are currently cutting
verges in Crowborough and are due
to be finished this week as it takes
around six days to complete.
“Our grass cutting schedule is
designed to give residents an idea of
when we expect to be grass cutting
in an area but is subject to change
depending on a number of factors
including urgent work.”
Crowborough’s second cut will take
place from 14 September.
For more information visit:
https://live.eastsussexhighways.
com/services/urbangrass-cutting-2026-27
Book amnesty sees hundreds
returned to libraries
A total of 683 lost books have been
returned to libraries in East Sussex
in this year’s fines amnesty.
Among them was a book loaned
from the East Sussex library service
almost 43 years ago. The Potter’s
Book of Glaze Recipes by Emmanuel
Coope has been handed in to Rye
library having been originally due
back in June 1983.
The books and overdue items were
reclaimed in this year’s amnesty
which saw the county council waive
fines if books were returned before
the end of March.
East Sussex County Council’s
assistant director of communities,
Nick Skelton said: “Since the amnesty
began on Monday, February 16, a
total of 22,160 overdue loans and
683 lost books have been returned
or renewed. It is great to have
these titles back on library shelves
and available once again for even
more people across the county to
borrow and enjoy.
“The annual amnesty is an effective
way of reclaiming books without the
public fearing being judged or fined
for returning overdue books — the
library service is simply happy to
have them back. It is also an effective
way of helping to ensure we are
continuously striving to provide a
comprehensive and quality range
of items for loan at all our libraries
in East Sussex.”
The majority of overdue loans
(65.4%) were in junior fiction at the
start of this year’s amnesty. The
longest overdue item ever returned
during the amnesty was missing from
bookshelves for 48 years. Havelok
The Warrior by Ian Serraillier, which
was taken out from Hastings library,
should have been returned in April
1975 and was returned in 2023.
Details of East Sussex libraries,
information about renewing library
books and access to online library
services can be found at www.
eastsussex.gov.uk/libraries
CROWBOROUGH’S Singing for
Fun Choir is set to hold its popular
summer concert in aid of charity.
The event on Monday, 6 July at
the United Church will be raising
money for Crowborough-based
The Good Company People which
supports hundreds of older people
and their families to keep active
and socialising.
Last year the ladies choir raised
£2,000 from its two annual concerts
for Hospice in the Weald.
Singing for fun is a friendly choir
which aims to inspire a love of
singing, alongside developing
musical skills, and welcomes
all regardless of experience.
The most important thing about
the choir is having fun and
building confidence.
As well as its two fundraising
concerts a year, it often performs
at other local community events.
It has recently performed for the
Wealden Dementia Group, at the
pop-up market, the Blind Group at
All Saint’s Old Hall and the Good
Company People at the Blue Anchor.
And later July they’ll be at the Darby
and Joan Club.
The 6 July concert starts at 7pm and
entry is by donation.
Crowborough’s Silver Jubilee Play Area (off Green Lane) has had a makeover thanks to
Crowborough Town Council. Following a £55,000 refurbishment, the updated park features
inclusive equipment, fresh surfacing, and serves as a gateway to The Ghyll nature reserve.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 ADVERTORIAL 13
Employment Rights Act 2025:
Is your organisation ready?
BY MOLLY MACKAY, ASSOCIATE
SOLICITOR, CORPORATE
AND EMPLOYMENT,
COOPERBURNETT LLP
In December 2025, the Employment
Rights Act 2025 received Royal
Assent and became law, promising
to deliver some of the largest
amendments to employment law in
a generation.
Some of these changes have already
started to take effect. For example,
as of April 2026, there is a duty on
employers to keep records in relation
to annual leave for six years and
paternity leave became a ‘Day One’
right for employees. This means that
employers must act now to ensure
that their organisation is ready to
implement these changes, by taking
the necessary steps.
In this article, we look to the year
ahead and report on some examples
of the changes that are proposed to be
introduced and how businesses can
prepare for these.
October 2026 — The next tranche of
changes is scheduled to be introduced
in October 2026 and employers
should be prepared for what these
entail. We have covered a few
A D V E R T I S E R P R O M O T I O N
of the changes.
Duty to take all reasonable steps to
prevent sexual harassment — This
means employers must now take all
reasonable steps to prevent sexual
harassment of their employees. A
new duty will also be introduced
which prohibits employers from
permitting harassment by third
parties. Employers will permit such
harassment only if it occurs during
the course of employment and the
employer cannot show they took all
reasonable steps to prevent it.
Considerations: Employers must
be alert to this new duty, as it will
no longer be enough to merely
enrol staff in a training course, for
example, to satisfy the test. What is
reasonable will likely depend on the
size and resources of the organisation
but in any event, steps must be
consistently taken and kept up to
date. This means regular reviews of
policies and procedures and ensuring
employees are aware of what is
expected of them.
Tips — There will be a new
requirement for employers to
consult with the representatives of
recognised trade unions, worker
representatives or workers that are
likely to be affected by the policy
before a new policy is introduced
or a current one amended. After
this is complete, an anonymised
summary must be given to all
workers at the business. Employers
must also ensure that the policy is
reviewed regularly and at least once
every three years.
Considerations: Any relevant
industry that has a tipping/gratuities
policy must ensure that they review
this document in line with the
statutory requirements and make the
relevant consultations when needed.
Employment Tribunals — There
will be an increase to the time limit in
which certain claims can be brought
from three months to six months.
Considerations: Whilst this may
not initially appear to be a significant
increase, allowing claimants longer
to submit a claim means further
uncertainty for both parties as the
employer awaits to hear whether
a claim has been brought and the
employee has longer to consider their
options and whether they wish to
pursue litigation. Employers should
be alive to this update and how this
can affect their business.
January 2027: Unfair dismissal —
Perhaps the most highly anticipated
change is that to the regime that
governs unfair dismissal, due
to come into force on 1 January
2027. The qualifying period of
service that an employee must
have to bring an unfair dismissal
claim is being reduced from two
years to six months. In addition,
the compensatory cap on unfair
dismissal awards granted in a
tribunal, is to be removed.
Considerations: Employers must
be aware of these new changes,
as employees who have started
employment before 1 July 2026
will automatically qualify for
this protection. This adds a new
dimension to importance of a
probationary period — employers
must now ensure that this is used
to its maximum potential and
proper process is followed at all
stages. Indeed, where potential
issues are identified, for example
with performance, this must be
dealt with properly and in line with
company policy.
The removal of the compensation
cap is perhaps most significant
when considering cases of higher
earners bringing unfair dismissal
claims, when the cap on earnings will
no longer apply.
Next steps — As a starting point,
employers should review their
policies and procedures, updating
these as necessary. Reconsideration
should be given, for example, to
the way that probationary periods
are structured and whether three
or six month periods are the most
appropriate. Undoubtedly, the best
prepared employers will be the
ones most equipped to deal with the
ongoing changes.
If you wish to discuss this
further, please do not hesitate to
contact Molly Mackay by email:
mxm@cooperburnett.com or
tel: 01892 515022.
This article is not intended as legal
advice that can be relied upon.
CooperBurnett LLP
Napier House, 14-16 Mount
Ephraim Road, Tunbridge
Wells, Kent TN1 1EE
www.cooperburnett.com
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.

14 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Hospice to end
children’s support?
THE services supporting children
and young people with terminal
illnesses look set to be axed because
of lack of funding.
Hospice in the Weald has been
carrying out a consultation on
ending its Children’s and Young
People’s Service because of budget
pressures. The move could also
leave some Hospice employees
facing redundancy.
In a message to supporters of the
charity, which provides care and
support services to people and their
families with terminal illness in the
high weald area, it described the
proposal as “difficult”.
Chief Executive Nick Farthing said:
“We have begun a 30‐day consultation
on a proposal to withdraw from
providing our Children’s and Young
People’s Service. This means that
a number of colleagues are at risk
of redundancy. We are supporting
them through what we know is an
incredibly difficult time. Families
who use the service have been
contacted personally.”
He said the proposal was not about
the quality of care, but funding. “We
are incredibly proud of the support
our team provides. The reason for
this proposal is the financial reality
we are facing. Like many hospices,
we are experiencing rising costs
and funding that has not kept pace.
National Insurance increases, NHS
pay uplifts, National Living Wage
rises, and wider inflation have all
added significant pressure.”
The Children’s and Young
People’s Service currently supports
33 families, but according to Mr
Farthing “it has not grown in the
way we had hoped, and the gap
between the resources required and
the number of people we are able
to reach has become increasingly
difficult to sustain”.
He added that by making difficult
decisions now, the charity was
safeguarding its future and ensuring
it could “continue being here for our
community for many years to come”.
But the decision has obviously not
been taken lightly. He said: “None
of this takes away from how hard
this feels. We value the service for
Children & Young People deeply,
and we are proud of the difference it
has made. We know this news may
feel upsetting, and we are grateful for
your understanding, compassion and
continued support. Your kindness
helps us continue providing vital care
for local people every day.”
Mr Farthing said the announcement
came at a time “when hospice
funding is not fit for purpose”.
He added: “Hospices across the
country are having to make difficult
decisions because funding for
children’s and adults’ hospice care
has not kept pace with need. We
continue to support Hospice UK’s
Fair Funding campaign and will
keep advocating for a sustainable
national solution.”
Pets blessing as
church holds
community event
A church in Jarvis Brook is preparing
to throw open its doors to visitors
with two legs — and more!
On 18th July 10am-2pm St Michael
and All Angels Church will be open
to share the life of the local parish
church with its neighbours. There
will be music, displays and a quiz. The
displays will include pictures from
years gone by.
The church hall will be open for
light refreshments, children’s craft
and information on the groups and
activities that take place in the hall
during the week. Information too
on how you can hire the hall for
your own event.
The next day, 19th July, the doors will
be open again at 3pm to welcome those
with 4 legs (or less) as the church holds
its first Pet Blessing! Visitors are being
invited to bring along their animal
companions or a photo of them for
a brief service of blessing. There will
also be an opportunity to remember
pets we have loved.
Revd. Judith Wilkinson, priest
in charge, said both events will be
free of charge and “we look forward
to seeing you”.
Fundraising South Downs walking
challenge for group of friends
Where is Sherlock Holmes when you need him? The newly reborn Rotherfield Horticultural
Society is on the search for something missing. The society has recently reformed and has
now launched the “Great Cup Hunt” in a bid to track down its historic show trophies. Of the
original 14 cups, awarded to show winners, the society has successfully traced nine. Now it’s
asking villagers to turn detective to search out the remaining five.
A Crowborough man and five of his
friends are undertaking a gruelling
walking challenge to raise money
for Rare Dementia Support.
Ian Baverstock, along with his
five oldest school friends, will be
attempting to walk 50km in under
12 hours across the South Downs,
starting and ending in Brighton.
He said: “We are walking to raise
money and awareness for a charity
campaign very close to my heart —
Rare Dementia Support. My Dad
passed away with non-fluent primary
progressive aphasia in July 2023.
“This form of dementia is a very
rare neurological condition that
gradually takes away a person’s
ability to speak and communicate.
The condition has a huge impact on
not only the sufferer, but also those
around them especially primary
care-givers, which often includes a
spouse or children. It is heartbreaking
for all to see someone you love get
frustrated, confused and eventually
lost within themselves.”
So, in the year that he turns 50 he
decided he wanted to do something
that helps support those affected
by the disease.
“Along with my closest friends
from school, one of whom is flying in
from Bangkok, we are hoping to raise
upwards of five thousand pounds
for the charity and have already
amassed nearly two thousand from
generous donations. We have walked
enough miles to takes us to Edinburgh
and back in our training and even
dropped a few pounds in the process!”
The group of friends will tackle the
challenge on 18 July. To support
them visit: https://www.justgiving.
com/page/50km50years

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 15
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16 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Body cameras to be worn after rise
in abuse of highways workers
BY IAIN LUXFORD
WORKERS mending potholes and
removing illegal flags from lamp
posts in Crowborough and across
East Sussex are to be issued with
body-worn cameras after a spike in
abuse from the public.
Balfour Beatty, the highways
contractor for East Sussex County
Council (ESCC) said increasing
levels of road rage over potholes
and the state of the roads was
behind the move.
On other occasions, road workers
have had their picture taken to be
shamed online, or have received
abuse while taking flags down
from lamp posts.
The company, which also manages
contracts for a number of other
councils, said its road workers across
the country have complained of about
600 incidents each week, which can
range from verbal abuse to being
threatened with a baseball bat.
Staff have been assaulted,
confronted with a knife, and on one
occasion, had a firecracker thrown at
them from a moving vehicle.
As well as the body cameras, the
company has also now developed an
app to map and establish the abuse
hotspots, and increased CCTV use
in those areas.
Staff have also been offered conflict
resolution training, which includes
a five-hour course to understand
how to reduce risks with aggressive
members of the public. This includes
telling staff to “avoid matching the
energy” of the abusive individual
and that “tactical withdrawal is not
failure, it’s smart”.
Ben Francis, an operations manager
based in East Sussex, said: “In recent
years it has got worse. There has been
a huge spike in these incidents here
and across the country.
“We had a driver decide to go
through a road closure the other day
and they mounted the footpath and
drove at teams who were actually
working. After they were stopped and
asked to leave they started racially
abusing one of our operatives. That’s
with the police now.”
Ambulance response improving
despite increase in calls
AMBULANCE response times across
Crowborough and East Sussex are
improving despite a huge leap in
emergency calls, according to the
latest figures.
South East Coast Ambulance Service
NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb)
has made a strong improvement
in Category 2 (C2) response times
for 2025/26, achieved despite a
significant increase in demand for
emergency care.
NHS England asked the trust
to deliver an average Category 2
response time of 28 minutes and
Best foot forward for
Beacon students
19 seconds. SECAmb achieved an
average response time of 27 minutes
and 46 seconds, while responding
to an additional 30,000 emergency
calls over the year.
A spokesperson said the
performance reflected a combination
of frontline ambulance response
and improvements across the wider
urgent and emergency care system.
In particular, SECAmb’s
Unscheduled Care Navigation Hubs
have played an important role by
supporting more patients with timely
clinical advice and appropriate care
pathways. This has helped to ensure
ambulance resources are available
for those who need them most.
Chief Executive Simon Weldon
praised staff for their commitment
and the impact this has had on patient
care. He said: “This is a significant
achievement for our organisation
and for the communities we serve,
particularly given the sustained
increase in demand we have seen
over the past year.
“Delivering faster responses while
handling tens of thousands more
emergency calls is only possible
Despite reporting incidents to the
police, the company said they had
only secured one prosecution.
In recent years, motorists have
become increasingly frustrated
with the state of disrepair across UK
roads, with recent data showing that
local authorities face a £18.62 billion
backlog of carriageway repairs.
Locally, in 2024 ESCC said it would
need £300 million to bring all our 2,000
miles of roads up to perfect condition.
Regarding flags, a spokesperson
for ESCC recently told Crowborough
News: “We know the pride many take
in seeing our national flags over East
Sussex. However, the government
guidance is clear that flags can only
be flown where permission has
been given by the site’s owner. The
unauthorised flying of flags from
lampposts and street signs is illegal
and can interfere with people safely
using the roads or other transport.
“We are working with Sussex
Police to remove unauthorised flags
as quickly and safely as possible,
prioritising those that present road
safety risks, and are balancing
this work with scheduled or
urgent highway work.”
because of the professionalism
and compassion shown by
colleagues across SECAmb.
“Our hubs have also made a
real difference by supporting
more patients safely and
effectively, helping us use our
resources where they can have the
greatest impact.”
Category 2 calls include time
critical conditions such as
suspected heart attacks, strokes
and serious injuries, where timely
assessment and care can make a vital
difference to outcomes.
Yee-haw!
Country
and western
theme for
school
summer fair
THERE will be a break with
tradition as Sir Henry Fermor
School stages its annual summer
fair on Saturday, 4 July.
This year’s fair, organised by
the Friends of Fermor, will have a
country and western theme
Organisers promise “fun
aplenty”, including cowboy boot
(welly) wanging, remote control
monster trucks, horseshoe
hoopla, the Sherrif’s shooting
range, soft toy roundup, tug
of war, axe throwing, our
ever-popular bottle and toy
tombolas, and more!
Visitors will also be invited
on to the dancefloor for a line
dancing hoedown and there will
be plenty of food and drink from a
chuckwagon BBQ, saloon bar and
ice cream stall.
The fair takes place at the
school from 12pm. The raffle
draw is at 2.30pm and the fair
finishes at 3pm.
STUDENTS from Crowborough’s
Beacon Academy have raised more
than £20,000 from their annual
sponsored walk.
The annual event follows an 8km
route through the Crowborough
countryside and involves
pupils in years 7-10.
The money raised will help fund
outdoor social areas for our students
and educational resources across
the school. The school will also be
making a donation to its chosen
charities: Taylor-Made Dreams and
Charlie’s Promise.
A spokesperson said: “A huge thank
you to everyone for their incredible
support and enthusiasm. We so
proud of our students. Every single
person played their part, whether
walking, running, or supporting back
at school — a fantastic team effort.”
At its Parish Council Meeting, Cllr Robert
Harris was elected Chair of Rotherfield
Parish Council for the 2026/2027 Council
Year. Cllr Beverley Johnstone was elected
Vice-Chair.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 CROWBOROUGH TOWN COUNCIL 17
Crowborough Town Council update
Crowborough Town Council is working hard to protect the services and facilities that matter most to our
community — and to make sure residents are kept up to date on what’s happening in the town. From health
services and transport to civic awards and local planning, here’s the latest news.
CrowFest 2026 —
The Biggest Day of the Summer
Mayor Currently Judging
Allotment Competition —
Winners Announced Soon!
SUMMER in Crowborough is
always a special time, but this year
promises to be bigger and better
than ever as Crowborough Town
Council’s packed programme
of events gets underway. At the
heart of the summer calendar is
CrowFest, taking place on Saturday
11 July at Goldsmiths Recreation
Ground. This free community
festival has become one of the
town’s most popular annual events,
bringing together residents,
local businesses, community
organisations and visitors for a day
filled with entertainment, music
and family fun.
CrowFest is a celebration of
everything that makes Crowborough
such a vibrant and welcoming
town. Throughout the day, visitors
can enjoy a lively atmosphere with
community stalls, local organisations,
activities for children, food and drink
vendors and plenty of opportunities
to meet friends and neighbours.
Whether you’re attending for
the first time or you’re a regular
visitor, there will be something to
appeal to all ages.
The highlight of the day is the
fantastic programme of live music
on the main stage. Opening the
festival at 1pm is local performer
Stella Jackaman, followed by Layla
at 1.35pm, Chris Harper at 2.15pm,
My Left Eye at 3pm, The Midnight
Project at 3.50pm, The JL Collective
at 4.50pm, Chunky at 5.50pm and
Superzero at 6.50pm. Bringing the
day to a spectacular close will be
headline act The Varlies, taking to
the stage at 8pm.
Keeping the energy high between
performances will be DJs Chris
Prole and DJ Raggo, who will be
entertaining the crowd throughout
the afternoon and evening. Their
sets will ensure there is never a
dull moment as the festival moves
seamlessly from one act to the next.
CrowFest is about much more than
music. It provides an opportunity
to showcase the incredible range
of talent, creativity and community
spirit that exists within Crowborough.
Local groups and organisations will
be on hand to share information
about their activities, while families
can enjoy a variety of attractions and
entertainment throughout the site.
CHECK OUT OUR ARENA ACT
TIMINGS TO SEE OUR FANTASTIC
ARRAY OF FAMILY FUN
Another one of our popular attractions
each year is the Crowborough
Miniature Railway, and we are
delighted that the Crowborough
Locomotive Society will once again be
opening the railway during the festival.
The miniature railway has been a
much-loved part of Crowborough life
for many years and offers a unique
experience for visitors of all ages. The
dedicated volunteers who maintain
and operate the railway contribute
enormously to our community,
and CrowFest provides a wonderful
opportunity for residents to enjoy this
treasured local attraction.
As a free event organised for the
benefit of the community, CrowFest
continues to grow year after year
thanks to the support of local
residents, volunteers, performers,
sponsors and community groups. It
reflects the strong community spirit
that makes Crowborough such a
special place to live, work and visit.
So make a note in your diary,
bring your family and friends,
and join us for a fantastic day
of music, entertainment and
community celebration. We look
forward to seeing you there and
making CrowFest 2026 another
unforgettable highlight of the
Crowborough summer.
THE Mayor is currently busy
judging this year’s Allotment
Competition, with winners set
to be announced very soon —
watch this space!
Open to all allotment tenants, this
fun and free-to-enter competition
celebrates the hard work, creativity
and dedication of growers of all ages.
Whether you’re an experienced
gardener or just starting out, it’s a
fantastic opportunity to showcase
your plot and be recognised
for your efforts.
Competition winners will receive
a £25 National Garden Gift Voucher,
presented by the Mayor. In addition,
the winner of the Best Kept Allotment
Award will have their name added to
the prestigious winners’ board at the
Town Council Offices in Pine Grove.
2026 Competition Categories:
• Best Kept Allotment Award
• Ecological Allotment Award
• Children’s Allotment Award
• Best Newcomer Award
Good luck to all entrants, and thank
you for helping make our allotment
sites such vibrant and thriving spaces
for the whole community.
Do you fancy growing your own
fruit and vegetables? Why not take
the plunge and take on an allotment?
Allotment gardening is a great way
to keep fit and meet new people. We
have three wonderful allotment sites
around the town, each of which has
their own unique character. If you
are a resident of Crowborough and
want to get stuck in, why not have a
look at what each of our sites has to
offer. A £50 refundable deposit will
be charged for each new allotment
plot held and some concessionary
rates will be available. Please see our
website for further information.
NEXT MEETINGS
Tuesday 7th July Finance, Personnel and General Purposes Committee
Monday 13th July Planning and Development Committee
Tuesday 21st July Sport and Recreation Committee
Tuesday 28th July Environment Committee
All meetings are held at Pine Grove Council Offices and are
open to the public. Check our website for timings.
CROWBOROUGH TOWN COUNCIL
Council Offices, Pine Grove, Crowborough, TN6 1DH
Telephone: 01892 652907
Email: info@crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
Website: www.crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
Facebook: @crowboroughtowncouncil
X: @CrowboroughTC • Instagram: @CrowboroughTownCouncil

18 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Sun shines on
annual bonfire
fete and dog show
PHOTOS BY IAIN LUXFORD
THE sun was shining on
Crowborough as large crowds
gathered for the annual bonfire
fete and dog show organised by the
Crowborough Bonfire and Carnival
Society (CBCS).
With a range of fund-raising stalls,
refreshments, rides, and arena
displays, the event was held to raise
money for the CBCS chosen charities.
It was another glorious day with
the dog show attracting dozens of
pooches and their owners hoping
to win a rosette in one of the ten
different classes. These included best
puppy, best trick, dog the judge would
most like to take home, and dog most
like its owner.
The always popular bonfire fete
and dog show is one of the fundraising
events organised by the
society, the main event being its
annual torchlit procession, bonfire,
and carnival in September. This
year that event takes place on
Saturday, 12 September.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 NEWS 19
Beacon Academy celebrates 70 years
CROWBOROUGH’S Beacon Academy has
marked a significant milestone with a special
event celebrating 70 years of the school,
welcoming back former students and past
and present staff.
The celebration offered an opportunity for
alumni and former colleagues to reconnect,
share memories and reflect on Beacon’s rich
history and lasting impact on generations of
students. Visitors enjoyed reminiscing, touring
the school and seeing how Beacon has evolved
while retaining its strong community spirit.
As part of this celebration, and in preparation
for the school’s 75th anniversary, the school
is inviting former students and staff to help
capture key moments from its history.
Alumni are encouraged to share memories,
photographs and stories that highlight
important events and achievements by
contacting alumni@beacon-academy.org.
It is also keen to grow its alumni network,
enabling former students to stay connected
with the school, one another and future events.
Find out more at www.beacon-academy.org/
join-us/alumni.
Beacon Academy looks forward to continuing
this journey towards its 75th anniversary and
strengthening links with its alumni community.
Last year, as Beacon prepared to celebrate
its 70th anniversary we heard from former
Crowborough Parish and Wealden District
councillor, John Bailey, who was one of its
very first pupils. He recalled the school’s early
days when the boys did metalwork, the girls
did needlework, and if it rained at lunchtime,
ballroom dancing was the indoor option…
“On the 6th September 2025 it will be 70 years
since Crowborough County Secondary Modern
School now Beacon Academy was opened to
its first cohort of student on the 6th September
1955. The official opening by the then Minister
of Education, Sir David Eccles took place on
29th June 1956.
“The pupils who, including myself, had failed
their 11 plus examination, which meant they
could not go to Skinners Grammar School in
Tunbridge Wells, were therefore the first to
attend the first year of the new school. The
school was an impressive building with facilities
we had not seen before.
“The first cohort of pupils consisted of 550
who came from such schools as Whitehill
Crowborough, Sir Henry Fermor Crowborough,
Rotherfield and Groombridge where up until
1955 they had taken their elementary and
secondary education.
“There were 22 teaching staff and several had
transferred to the new school. For example
Miss Griffiths, Mr Spence, Mr Ward and Mr
J.A.Club came from Sir Henry Fermor Church
of England School.
“The first headmaster was Mr John
Pennington. The deputy head was Miss
Churchill. The staff included Mrs L Parker, Mr
T Dunn, Mr M Beamish, Miss D.F.T.Cummant,
Miss Harvey, Mr Ralph Sands, Mr J Knott, Miss
D.G.Shannon, Mr Jeffrey Lee, K Laughton,
M.R. Ingham, L.H.Moore, Vera Bensusan and
B.E.Weali. There were two male teachers with
surname Lee, so they were often referred to as
English Lee and woodwork Lee. Mr Mckerrow
taught metalwork.
“The School, which was local authority
controlled, had 4 houses. Innes (Red), Neville
(Blue), Sackville (Green), and Ashdown
(Yellow). The school adopted a streamed
system A, B and C. Most students left before
taking O Levels.
“So, therefore, what was taught between
the age of eleven and fifteen (which was the
school-leaving age until 1972); included English,
maths, history, geography, rural science, art
and religious education. Girls also did domestic
science and needlework. Boys did technical
drawing, woodwork and metalwork.
“Music and drama lessons were included,
songs were sung, recorders played and plays
acted. Physical Education included the usual
team games and sports day activities. If the
weather was wet ballroom dancing would
provide an alternative activity in the main hall.
“Night School, which was open to the public
also provided further opportunities, included
most of the practical subjects including typing.
Most students left at 15 and were able to find
several employment opportunities in the late
1950’s and 1960’s.”

20 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Crowborough filmmaker
breaks cinematic new ground
A student from Crowborough is
hoping to reshape how films are
made, shared and experienced
with a new short film ‘What
I Meant to Say’.
Leading a team of filmmakers at
UWE Bristol Madeline Jeffs from
Crowborough has produced the
film alongside writer and director
Jarred Sullivan.
According to UWE Bristol, the film
explores themes of communication,
identity and belonging, while
bringing to the fore deaf and
hard‐of‐hearing perspectives. It
draws on Maddy’s own experience as
a hard-of-hearing filmmaker.
The drama follows Aaron, a shy,
deaf 16-year-old adopted into a deaf
family. His hearing birth-mother
Marie unexpectedly reaches out and
the film follows them as they spend
the day together in hopes of striking
up a connection. Communication
proves far harder than imagined
but mother and son finally begin to
understand each other through their
emotional resonance, rather than
perfect language.
The project has been developed
through close work with Deaf
individuals and British Sign Language
(BSL) consultants to ensure a
nuanced and authentic approach.
For Maddy, soon to graduate from
her BA (Hons) filmmaking course,
being hard-of-hearing herself has
shaped the way she works as a
producer: “This project was very
personal and important for me as I
am passionate about acknowledging
unrepresented voices, and ensuring
filmmaking is accessible to all.
“It was a challenge to complete:
working with children, organising
quick turn arounds, and overseeing
a low budget and sustainable
production that included a mix
of hearing and Deaf individuals. I
believe we have made an emotional,
poignant and complex piece of short
cinema, that celebrates disability
within the everyday.”
Maddy is now looking for a film
or TV role as an access coordinator
or welfare producer, where she
can ensure inclusive practices are
made throughout the production
and that everyone involved feels
supported and valued.
Dr Charlotte Crofts, Professor
of Cinema Arts, said: “I could not
be prouder of our students for the
leadership they have shown through
this project. Their commitment to
rethinking accessibility — across
creative practice, production
processes and audience experience —
has challenged us as an institution to
reflect and act.”
Poetry competition
winners announced
THE Ashdown Forest Foundation
has announced the winners of its
second annual poetry competition.
The competition was run in
partnership with the Royal Literary
Fund with support from the
Conservators of Ashdown Forest.
Inspired by Pooh’s connection to
his iconic storybook friends, the
challenge for this year’s competition
entrants was to capture the theme
of ‘Friendship.’
The winners of each category are:
• Ages 6-10 years: Yici Zhang,
“Friendship in all her forms”
• Ages 11-17: Esme
Coulter, “Salt ritual”
• Age 18 and over: Miriam Mason,
“Conversations”
This year’s esteemed panel of judges
included Joseph Coelho OBE, Jane
Riordan, Gyles Brandreth, Kathryn
Aalto and Fiona Sampson.
Gyles Brandreth, author of
AA Milne and Winnie-the-Pooh
biography Somewhere, a Boy and
Bear, said: “Winnie-the-Pooh and
Yici Zhang — Winner
6-10 years category
Esme Coulter — Winner
11-17 years category
his friends have been friends to the
world for a hundred years — since the
first Winnie-the-Pooh stories were
published in 1926.
“As someone who loves Pooh
and poetry — and the magic of the
Ashdown Forest — I was honoured
to be one of the judges of this special
competition marking Pooh’s and
I’m thrilled by the quality — and
thoughtfulness and heart — of
the amazing winning entries.
Congratulations!”
Robin St Clair Jones, Chair of The
Ashdown Forest Foundation, was
delighted that the theme attracted
so many entries. He said: “Ashdown
Forest is the place that inspired the
home where Christopher Robin,
Pooh, Piglet and all the other
characters we love formed their own
life-long friendships.
“This special yet vulnerable
landscape has continued to be a place
of great importance for people and
for wildlife for the last hundred years
and we hope will be so for another
Miriam Mason —
Winner adult category
century and beyond.
“We are delighted that this theme
has inspired so many poets from
across the generations to share
their talents and perspectives on the
theme through the competition. We
are deeply grateful to all the judges
who had the tough job of selecting
the winners and thank everyone
who took part.”
The three winning poems
are available to read on the
Ashdown Forest website: https://
ashdownforest.org/explore/poetrycompetition-winners/
FRIENDSHIP IN ALL HER FORMS
By Yici Zhang
Tag you’re it!
Blood rushes through me as I leap
away from her hand.
We twirl like dancers around
the playground as
Giggles and screams fill our ears, this is
the music of friendship.
My favourite is a lolly pop, I make sure to
have an army of them
To share. It makes me happy to
see friends smile
As the fizz fills their mouths.
Friendship is in the bond you share with
your favourite pet,
Or the breath of relief you sigh as you
enter your bedroom
After a long day. It is in your delight at
a beautiful sunset,
And the comfort of your
favourite jumper.
Innovative ambulance
partnership promises
better service
AMBULANCE bosses say patients in
Crowborough and across the area
will benefit from more consistent,
high-quality ambulance care with
a new partnership of services — the
first of its kind in England.
Our ambulance service — South East
Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb)
and the South Central Ambulance
Service (SCAS) have come together
to form the South Central and South
East Ambulance Group.
And managers say: “The new group
model marks a proactive move to
strengthen patient care, ensure
sustainable services, and build a
more resilient ambulance system
across the region.”
By working together more closely,
the two services will be better placed
to share expertise and resources,
harness innovation, and invest
in improvements that directly
benefit patients.
Through the new group model,
both trusts will continue to operate
independently, retaining the
flexibility to meet the specific needs
of their local communities, but
will collaborate on key priorities
such as digital innovation,
clinical best practice, and
workforce development.
The Group will introduce a shared
leadership model, with a single Chief
Executive and Chair supporting
both Trusts. This will enable greater
strategic co-ordination while
maintaining each organisation’s local
accountability and identity.
The move is fully supported by
NHS England (South East) and aligns
with the NHS 10 Year Plan, ensuring
ambulance services across the
region remain safe, equitable, and
financially sustainable.
The transition to the new South
Central and South East Ambulance
Group will take place in phases
through to 2027.
Simon Weldon the Chief Executive
of SECAmb said: “This is a forwardlooking
partnership designed around
patients and our people. Together
we can build stronger teams, provide
better support for our staff, and
ensure ambulance services across the
South East are fit for the future.”
Anne Eden, Regional Director
for NHS England in the South East,
added: “The proposed move to a
group model for our region’s two
main ambulance service providers
is a real opportunity to improve care
and access for our patients, while
offering better value for money. A
shared leadership model will ensure
both services are fit for the future as
the NHS continues to transform to
deliver now and in years to come.”

8 2 3 9 7 5 1 4 6
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 PUZZLES 21
PUZZLES
WORDSEARCH
Waterfalls
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.
ANGEL
BLENCOE
BRIDAL VEIL
BROWNE
HAVASU
HOPETOUN
HORSESHOE
KRIMML
OLO’UPENA
PALOUSE
RHINE
RINKA
SHOSHONE
TOLMER
TUGELA
VICTORIA
WATSON
WISHBONE
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
C
W L P H P G I W A O R A E
Q I E F G U A K D E R N H
E E D H S W N Y M F O E O
N V D A Z I A L G H O P F
O L V K R J O T S H X U W
B A G G O T O O S H H O M
H D A X U L H E E O O L J
S I M I M S S S P E N O A
I R Q M R R U E A N G E L
W B I K O O T A T T G O Q
Z R P H L O T U N N R N L
K O X A U U G C N T H W P
R W P N C E V C I Q I H J
J N A K L B L C V V N F E
L E X A S S E O C N E L B
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
E
CODEWORD
26 18 17 8 23 12 23 21 21 1 26
6 14 9 23 8 4 9
23 9 24 23 25 23 12 4 8 8
17 15 12 19 22 25 2
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23 9 16
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17 3 12
15 4 13 17 15 23 17 19 12 26 1 26
1 4 26 15 26 1 12
23 1 17 9 12 23 21 10 17 15 22 1 17
17 20 17 4 3 9 1
3 24 26 21 21 25 17 15 15 24 4 18 19
15 4 25 23 4 23 1
17 11 15 3 23 12 23 5 17 9 8 10
3 8 22 3 23 21 10 19 16 23
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23 15 15 17 16 26 15 17 17 16
3 7 17 17 15 1 8 23 12 3 24
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Across
1 Chair used as a
carriage (5)
4 Using jointly or
in common (7)
8 Eat (7)
9 Capital of Bolivia (2,3)
10 Step (5)
11 Implore (7)
12 Commotion (6)
13 Bother (6)
16 Type of hunting dog (7)
18 Strangle (5)
20 Force out (5)
21 On the Origin of ___, work
by Charles Darwin (7)
22 Curving in and out (7)
23 Childish word for
scrumptious (5)
Down
1 Fires from a job (5)
2 Tooth doctor (6,7)
3 Having no personal
preference (7)
4 CD player (6)
5 Distribute (5)
CROSSWORD
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9
10 11
12 13 14
15
16 17 18 19
20 21
22 23
6 Style of painting
associated with the late
19th century (13)
7 Title used by some
newspapers (7)
12 Swimmers (7)
14 Sport of shooting arrows
with a bow (7)
15 Emergency (6)
17 Presentation, briefly (5)
19 Short formal piece
of writing (5)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in
such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal
row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.
7 5 1
9 1 7
6 5 3 9
8 7
9 6 2 7
3 9
8 7 6 2
7 3 5
4 1 5
SOLUTIONS
6 3 4 1 5 2 7 8 9
1 7 2 8 6 9 3 5 4
5 8 9 7 3 4 6 2 1
2 5 7 3 4 6 9 1 8
9 4 6 5 8 1 2 3 7
3 1 8 2 9 7 4 6 5
7 6 5 4 1 3 8 9 2
4 9 1 6 2 8 5 7 3
8 2 3 9 7 5 1 4 6
4 1 5
SUDOKU
A P E R I T I F F D A
W X N I R O N I N G
I N H I B I T O R R C I
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© Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)
CODEWORD
S E D A N S H A R I N G
A E E T L M A
C O N S U M E L A P A Z
K T T R O R E
S T A I R E N T R E A T
L A O S T
B U S T L E H A S S L E
A U C R I
T E R R I E R C H O K E
H G N I H N S
E J E C T S P E C I E S
R O R I R S A
S I N U O U S Y U M M Y
CROSSWORD
W L P H P G I W A O R A E
Q I E F G U A K D E R N H
E E D H S W N Y M F O E O
N V D A Z I A L G H O P F
O L V K R J O T S H X U W
B A G G O T O O S H H O M
H D A X U L H E E O O L J
S I M I M S S S P E N O A
I R Q M R R U E A N G E L
W B I K O O T A T T G O Q
Z R P H L O T U N N R N L
K O X A U U G C N T H W P
R W P N C E V C I Q I H J
J N A K L B L C V V N F E
L E X A S S E O C N E L B
WORDSEARCH

22 NEWS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Happy birthday Crowborough News!
BY IAIN LUXFORD
This edition of Crowborough News
marks a milestone for your local
community newspaper — it’s our
first birthday!
As editor (also main writer,
photographer, tea maker, and
delivery driver), I never set out to
create a newspaper. To be honest, it
was a bit of an accident!
In early 2025 I was getting more and
more disillusioned by the amount of
negativity on social media about our
town and our community so decided
to start spreading some better news
— things in our community we could
celebrate, or information that would
bring us closer as a community.
This gathered pace and the
embryonic Crowborough News
Facebook page and website seemed
to resonate with lots of people who
love this area and being part of it. The
Facebook page ticked off milestones
as the number of followers rose
to 100, then 500, and then 1,000.
That page now has more than
4,500 followers.
It was then I had a call from Paul
Gibson, who runs similar community
newspapers in Hailsham, Eastbourne
and Bexhill. He asked if I had ever
thought about compiling all the
Crowborough content into a monthly
newspaper. No, was the answer…but
maybe that might be a good idea! My
only concern was I would have to do
it in my spare time so I didn’t want
it to takeover.
But nothing ventured, nothing
gained, and the rest, as they say, is
history. With Paul’s support — and
contacts with designers and printers
— Crowborough News was born.
KEEPING IT LOCAL IN A
DIGITAL WORLD
It perhaps seems counter-intuitive to
launch a newspaper in a world that
has embraced digital channels so
whole-heartedly, but in my opinion
there is still room for the local paper
in which people see people they
know, read about places they go, and
understand issues on their doorstep
that will impact them. The fact that we
issue up to 10,000 copies each month
provides good evidence for that!
That’s what weekly local
newspapers were doing when I
was doing my journalism training
in the late ’80s and early ’90s. And
that’s what I want Crowborough News
to remain — a proper community
newspaper with content about
Crowborough and its immediate
surrounding area or relevant to
Crowborough people.
We can’t ignore the bad news, of
course, and I’m proud it was little
Crowborough News that broke the
news about the army camp, and
also about the birthing unit closure.
But above all I wanted the paper to
highlight some of the achievements,
celebrations, history and people that
often get overlooked.
I want to say a huge thank you to the
very many people who have come up
to me at community events like the
farmers’ market and had very kind
and supportive words to say. And I
can only produce a free newspaper
with the support of local companies
and their advertising. Some have
been remarkably and consistently
supportive since day one.
I’m also grateful to the various
contributors who provide content on
a monthly basis about local groups,
sports clubs, and organisations
— they help me fill the pages with
relevant and interesting information.
And a word of thanks also to the
dozens of care homes, pubs, shops,
cafes, clubs and other community
venues that take copies for their
customers and members to read.
It would also be remiss of me not to
thank Crowborough Town Council
for its support. The councillors and
officers really are committed to
Crowborough and doing everything
they can to maintain the strong
community we have always been.
A SURREAL FULL CIRCLE
FOR LOCAL JOURNALISM
On a personal level, this has
been a slightly surreal 36 year
full circle! Back in 1990 I did my
journalism training with the Kent
& Sussex Courier at its branch in
Crowborough High Street.
After a few years in newspapers,
what followed was a career in PR
and marketing working for Kent
Police, COI Communications,
five years working at 10 Downing
Street in the Prime Minister’s Office
comms team, then within the East
Sussex County Council comms
team where I managed the Media
& Marketing Team at ESCC for
almost ten years.
I have lived in Crowborough since
2003 and my two daughters have
grown up here — both attending
Sir Henry Fermor School and then
Beacon Academy before going on
the university. For many years I was
part of the management team of
Crowborough Foodbank — including
during the covid pandemic — and I’ve
worked for and supported various
other local charities.
So now I’m back where it all
started! And as we move ahead
into our second year I’m excited. I
really do believe in our community,
and I’m convinced a better
informed community is one that
is more strongly connected, feels
more engaged, and has a greater
sense of belonging.
I hope Crowborough News has
played its part in that and will
continue to do so.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 REGULARS 23
BY THE MAYOR OF CROWBOROUGH, CLLR NATALIE WHITTLE
SPIRIT OF KINDNESS,
COMMITMENT AND CIVIC PRIDE
WHEN I was honoured to be re-elected
as Mayor of Crowborough for a second
term in May, I felt both grateful and
humbled by the opportunity to continue
serving our town. While the role carries
important civic responsibilities, one of
the greatest privileges is the chance to
meet people from every corner of our
community and learn more about the
place we all call home.
Over the past year, I have discovered
that being Mayor is very much a
journey. No matter how long you have
lived in Crowborough, there is always
more to learn, more stories to hear, and
more remarkable individuals making
a difference behind the scenes. My
second term has already provided many
opportunities to continue that journey,
and I am enjoying every moment.
One of the highlights was attending
the recent Rotary Club fundraising event
at Beacon Golf Club, in support of Taylor
Made Dreams. The evening showcased
not only the extraordinary generosity
of local people and the dedication of
the Charity who work tirelessly to help
families facing the most challenging
circumstances. It was inspiring to see
our community come together for such
an important cause.
Another memorable occasion was
solicitor Claire Nash Solicitors art
exhibition featuring work created by
members of Rotherfield St Martin’s. The
exhibition was a wonderful celebration
of creativity, talent and inclusion. The
artwork on display reflected not only
artistic skill, produced and giving a real
sense of our Sussex landscapes, but also
showed the confidence and enjoyment
that participation in community
activities can bring. It was a reminder of
the many organisations that enrich lives
across our area every day.
This month also marks the first
anniversary of Crowborough News, a
milestone that deserves recognition
and celebration. Over the past year, the
publication has become an important
part of community life, helping
residents stay informed about local
issues, events and achievements,
indeed, breaking national news stories.
Much of that success is due to the
dedication of its editor, Iain Luxford. In
an era when trusted local journalism
is more important than ever, Iain has
demonstrated a strong commitment to
fairness, accuracy and public service.
His editorial integrity, combined with
a genuine passion for our town and its
people, has helped create a publication
that informs, connects and strengthens
our community. We are fortunate to
have such a thoughtful and committed
voice championing local news. I hope
you will join me in wishing Crowborough
News, many successful years to come.
These events, and many others, have
reinforced my belief that Crowborough’s
greatest strength lies in its people. From
community groups and charities to local
businesses, schools and volunteers,
there is a tremendous spirit of kindness,
commitment and civic pride that helps
our town thrive.
As I begin my second year as Mayor, I
remain committed to listening, learning
and supporting the organisations and
individuals who make Crowborough
such a special place. I look forward to
meeting many more residents in the
months ahead and continuing this
rewarding journey together.
Art club skills showcased by solicitors
Celebrating Sussex Day
THE culture and heritage of our
historic county was celebrated in
Crowborough in style.
Sussex Day, celebrated on 16 June
each year, is a dedicated day to
honour the heritage, traditions and
folklore of Sussex.
Under blue skies on Chapel
Green, Crowborough Town
Council hosted a family event to
mark the occasion. The free event
included various activities and
refreshments for families to enjoy
— including singing from Sir Henry
Fermor school children, and a
Punch and Judy Show.
The Sussex Charter was read, and
members of Crowborough Guides
and the Trefoil Guild were on hand to
with a teddy bear tombola and cake
sales to raise money.
Similar events took place at towns,
villages and local communities
across both East and west Sussex.
The town council also draped the
Sussex flag across the High Street to
mark the event.
First held in 2006, Sussex Day falls
on St. Richard’s Day, commemorating
the patron saint of Sussex, Richard
of Chichester, and often features the
raising of the Sussex flag, community
events, and local festivities.
It serves to celebrate the unique
identity of both East and West Sussex,
promoting its traditions, folklore, and
natural beauty.
The day is also a reminder of
the county’s long history, from
its prehistoric roots and ancient
kingdom status to its role as a
“frontline” county during times of
conflict, encapsulated in the local
motto “We wun’t be druv”.
THE artwork of members of
Rotherfield St Martin Art Club has
been showcased thanks to support
from a Crowborough law firm.
Claire Nash Solicitors hosted
the art event during Volunteers’
Week to exhibit artwork created by
members of the art club, inspired
by the landscapes of Ashdown
Forest and beyond.
A spokesperson for the firm said:
“A real highlight was welcoming
all of the artists to see their work
on display. It was a wonderful and
uplifting social occasion, with
plenty of smiles as they shared their
creativity with one another.”
Cllr Natalie Whittle, Mayor
of Crowborough, Matt Allen,
President of Crowborough and
District Chamber of Commerce
and Vicky Cheeseman, Charity
Manager at Rotherfield St
Martin also attended.
The spokesperson added: “Special
thanks go to Annie Benthack, Art
Teacher for the Rotherfield St Martin
Art Club, whose encouragement and
guidance continue to support the
artists’ confidence and creativity. The
afternoon was enjoyed over tea and
cakes, and despite the thunderstorms
outside, the atmosphere remained
warm, positive and full of
community spirit.
“It was especially fitting that
it took place during Volunteers’
Week to celebrate the people who
make moments like this possible.
Rotherfield St Martin relies heavily
on the dedication of its volunteers,
whose time and support make such a
difference in the community.”
Rotherfield St Martin is a charity
whose aim is to prevent isolation and
loneliness by building a strong and
supportive community in the village.
It offers a weekly programme of
regular activities, including trips out,
social gatherings, learning new skills,
clubs, exercise classes, therapies,
signposting, befriending, a volunteer
driver scheme, holiday at home
scheme, hydrotherapy and more.

24 REGULARS
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
U3A with Rob Stone
CROWBOROUGH U3A
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP
AMONGST the many interest groups
with Crowborough U3A is this group
for members who have an interest in
taking photographs. We are a friendly
group who like to share our knowledge
and build upon our own experiences
when taking photos.
As such we have a range of abilities
within our members and who use a
variety of equipment, from phone
cameras to higher end digital cameras
and members are happy to share their
skills. Your skill level does not matter nor
the camera you use.
At our monthly meeting we might set
a subject for members to photograph,
but this is not competitive, rather a
‘show and tell’ of our work. We can then
constructively comment on our own, and
others photos, to discuss why we chosen
a particular image, the techniques used,
viewpoint taken and camera settings and
post processing.
Nothing in this chat matters as much
as the end results — were we pleased
with the result? If not, how could we
perhaps have changed things to improve
the photo and, in this way, get a more
pleasing image. We occasional invite
outside speakers to our meetings to talk
to us about photography but we also
encourage those with knowledge to give
a presentation to the group.
An Example of Table Top photography
— We have a number of practical
sessions throughout the year, be they
Table Top, Portraiture and on occasions
when the weather allows, we have
Away Days to experience photographing
different subjects such as Sport, Still
Life Flowers or Landscape and even the
occasional photographic scavenger hunt.
The aim is always to enjoy the experience
and for members to try to photograph
something new to them. The more
experienced members are always around
to offer help if wanted so it makes for an
easy-going relaxed atmosphere.
Some members act as community
photographers providing support to local
sports teams and societies helping them
get publicity for their clubs and and at
the same time getting much enjoyment.
The direction of the group is set by its
members, be it Art or Action, so how
about joining us and get more out of
your photography.
We meet on the third Monday of every
month at the Crowborough Community
Centre from 2pm till 4pm. Why not
come along one Monday and speak to
out Group Leader David. Charging a very
modest fee of £15 per person for six
months to cover room rental.
VMA FITNESS with Ellie Lear
SUMMER GOALS FOR FITNESS
vmafitness.co.uk
HOPEFULLY July will bring some
more stable and consistent sunshine
which makes it more appealing to eat
well, stay hydrated and get outside for
some exercise.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the
outdoors while improving your health
and fitness. With the hope of longer days
and warmer weather, there are many
opportunities to stay active without
spending hours in a gym. The key is to
finding enjoyable ways to exercise which
can then make a big difference to your
physical and mental well-being and slot
into your daily routine.
Walking is one of the easiest and most
effective summer activities. A brisk
morning or evening walk around the
neighbourhood or local park can improve
heart health, strengthen muscles, and
reduce stress. Walking with friends
or family also makes exercise more
enjoyable and helps build stronger
community connections. Grab a friend
and take a 10minute walk tomorrow
to get started.
Cycling is another option for those
that have a bicycle. It provides a
cardiovascular workout while allowing
people to explore local trails and scenic
routes in the local area. If you are looking
for a low-impact activity, swimming
is ideal. It is no impact so kind to your
joints and keeps the body cool during
hot weather while improving endurance,
flexibility, and muscle strength.
Gardening can also be surprisingly
beneficial, as digging, planting, and
weeding burn calories and improve
mobility and strength.
It is important to exercise safely
during the summer months. Drink
plenty of water before, during and after
physical activity to stay hydrated. Wear
lightweight clothing, apply sunscreen,
and avoid exercising during the hottest
part of the day, usually between late
morning and mid-afternoon. Early
mornings and evenings are often the best
times to be active.
Setting realistic fitness goals can help
maintain motivation. Instead of aiming
for intense workouts every day, focus on
regular movement and gradual progress.
30 minutes of moderate activity most
days of the week can lead to significant
health benefits and will build that
essential foundation for a healthier
future and longevity.
Summer fitness does not have to
be expensive or complicated. Simple
activities like walking, cycling,
swimming, or playing games with
children can help people stay healthy
while making the most of the season.
By embracing active habits now, you
can enjoy improved energy, better
mood, and lasting health benefits
throughout the year.
This summer, take advantage of the
sunshine, gather friends and family, and
make fitness a fun part of everyday life.
Your body and mind will thank you for it
in the months and years ahead.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 REGULARS 25
ASHDOWN FOREST with Beth Morgan
THE BIG ONE HUNDRED ARRIVES
ON ASHDOWN FOREST
THE first sightings of ‘Poppet’, a giant,
inflatable puppet creature inspired
by the landscape of Ashdown Forest
and the special species of animals
and plants that live here have been
reported as rehearsals get underway
for ‘The Big One Hundred’ — the very
special event taking place at the Forest
Centre on 18th and 19th July marking
the centenary of Winnie-the-Pooh. The
creative brainchild of Trigger creative
director Angie Bual and costume
designer Jack Irving, ticketholders will
get the opportunity to meet the giant
puppet for themselves at the event,
along with a programme of activities set
to engage all ages!
Tickets are free but are limited and
must be booked in advance, so make
sure to get yours at soon as possible
from www.thebigonehundred.co.uk.
‘Poppet’ is also going on tour to other
locations through July and August — see
the website for more details.
Six new walks will also be launched
on the Forest this summer as part of the
Big One Hundred centenary celebrations
— look out for more detail in our next
monthly update.
In the meantime, we’re pleased to
share more information about the
weekly Health Walks which take place
on the Forest. First initiated in 2013,
the walks are led by members of the
Forest’s volunteer team and take place
every Wednesday at 10am. The nature
of the area means routes are generally
on rugged footpaths which can be
uneven in places and can be muddy in
winter. Sturdy footwear with good grip
is advised. Free parking is provided
for participants.
The walks start in the
following car parks:
• 1st Weds of month: Broadstone car
park, Coleman’s Hatch Road; approx
postcode RH18 5JP; What3words
arriving.poses.dwarf
• 2nd Weds of month: Long car park,
A22 Wych Cross Road; approx.
postcode RH18 5JN; What3words
pigs.nest.tradition
• 3rd Weds of month: Box car
park, Crowborough Road; approx
postcode TN22 3JA; What3words
solo.hike.users
• 4th Weds of month: Four Counties
car park, B2026 High Road; approx
postcode TN22 3JD; What3words
abandons.combining.using
• 5th Weds (if there is one): Millbrook
East car park, A22 Millbrook
Hill; approx postcode TN22 3PJ;
What3words koala.cloak.lilac
But speaking of special visitors to
the Forest… Two very special birds
have made a nest in the wider Forest
landscape their home. Available to view
now on our website is the first ever live
stream of one of the rarest and most
secretive breeding raptors in the UK: the
Honey-buzzard (Pernis apivorus). Take
a look as the parents prepare for the
chicks to hatch and later fledge from
the nest. It really is a rare opportunity
to get such a front-row view. Check out
the link on the ‘Explore’ menu on our
website.
The project would not have happened
without funding from the Sussex
Ornithilogical Society, the Friends of
Ashdown Forest, the Ashdown Forest
Foundation, and the Smew Fund, with
technical and ecological expertise
provided by Wildlife Windows. The data
we collect from this unique opportunity
is vital to our understanding of this
special species and its long-term
survival in the UK.
Congratulations go to the winners
of this year’s poetry competition run
in partnership with the Royal Literary
Fund. Inspired by Pooh’s connection
to his iconic storybook friends, the
challenge for this year’s competition
entrants was to capture the theme of
‘Friendship’ (See separate news article)
Last but not least, we’re getting for our
programme of summer holiday activities
for 5-12 year olds and their families!
Spaces can be booked now for Wild
Wednesdays and Nature Thursdays,
when Lisa and Will from the Forest’s
Education team will lead a series of
fun, themed sessions with intriguing
names such as ‘Creatures of the Night’,
‘Stream Explorer’, ‘Hoppers and Leapers’,
‘Creepers and Crawlers’ and more!
Find out more and book places via the
links in the ‘What’s On’ page under the
‘Explore’ menu on the website — www.
ashdownforest.org
Crowborough MOT Station is an independent company
specialising in all aspects of vehicle servicing and MOT testing.
We provide an honest and reliable service and are proud of our
competitive prices.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE LICENSING ACT 2003
Regulation 25 Advertisement. To: WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
I/We (1) Realms Group Ltd, do hereby give notice that /we have applied to the Licensing Authority at
Wealden District Council for the grant of a Premises Licence
(3) Unit 3, Lexden Lodge Industrial Estate, Crowborough, TN6 2NQ
and known as (4) Realms
The application is to:- (5) Sell alcohol on premises:
Thursday 4pm - 10pm, Friday 4pm - 10pm,
Saturday 10am - 10pm, Sunday 11am - 8pm.
Any person wishing to make representations to this application may do so by writing to Licensing
Officer, Wealden DC, Vicarage Lane, Hailsham, BN27 2AX or email licensing@rother.gov.uk not later
than (6) 15th July 2026 Representations received after this date cannot be considered.
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26 SPORT
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Crowborough women
feature in national sport
health campaign
A major film about women’s health
in sport and supporting sporting
injuries has featured members of
Crowborough Rugby Football Club.
Last November, the club hosted the
filming of a major national marketing
campaign for Bupa’s flagship London
hospital, Cromwell Hospital, which
focused on women’s health in sport.
The filming session featured both
the club’s junior girls and women’s
teams, with training led by Women’s
Rugby World Cup winner Rosie
Galligan. A total of 60 women and
girls from the club’s U14, U16, U18,
and Women’s teams took part.
Various members of the club were
also interviewed.
The club had been selected for the
campaign due to its rapid growth and
commitment to female rugby and
its development. That rapid growth
has been astonishing — from just five
members six years ago, to more than
70 women and girls now.
“Crowborough RFC is immensely
proud to have been selected by
Cromwell Hospital (part of Bupa)
to host this important national
campaign,” said Alex Hunn, Chairman
of Crowborough Rugby Club.
“It shines a spotlight on the
phenomenal progress we have
made in women’s rugby, and it
provides invaluable visibility for
our sponsor, Servomex, who makes
this growth possible. Seeing over 60
girls and women engaging directly
with an England player proves how
critical their support is. We also
want to extend our heartfelt thanks
to Rosie for dedicating her time;
she is a true inspiration on and off
the field and was a lovely person to
have at the club.”
Victoria Hammond, HR Director of
Servomex: “We’re incredibly proud
to support Crowborough RFC’s
Women’s and Girls’ section and to see
the wonderful progress being made—
not only in growing participation but
in building a strong pipeline of talent
for the future.”
The video campaign follows recent
research showing that nearly half of
respondents feel women’s injuries
are not taken as seriously as men’s in
sport — something the campaign aims
to help change as participation and
visibility in women’s sport continues
to grow rapidly across the UK.
As women’s rugby continues to
thrive nationally, Crowborough
RFC is proud to be part of the
movement helping inspire the next
generation of female players both on
and off the pitch.
To watch the video scan/
click the QR code.
30 years of
success for
Crowborough club
CONGRATULATIONS to
Crowborough’s Taekwon-Do
club which has celebrated its
30th anniversary.
Based in the town centre at VMA
Fitness, Vision Taekwon-Do has
become one of the leading centres in
the country and members routinely
secure places in the England
team to compete in international
tournaments around the globe.
Crowborough athletes have secured
dozens of international medals for
their country, including World and
European titles.
It was set up by Philip Lear, who
together with his wife Ellie, runs
the club and the fitness centre. He
said the evening at the community
centre celebrating 30 years
had been “amazing”
He said: “It was an emotional
evening meeting up with many
old faces who used to train in
Crowborough and in particular
seeing the “Originals” there was an
absolute pleasure. It was great to
chat with so many people from the
past and present.”
Philip presented the black belts
past and present with a specially
commissioned commemorative coin.
“Bowls in Bloom” —
Wolfe Bowls Club holds
community event
Captain’s charity
day success
Young
tennis stars
celebrate
ORGANISERS of a special event at
Crowborough Wolfe Bowls Club
are inviting residents to enjoy a
taste of the club.
Established in 1937, the club has
been a fixture of the East Sussex
sporting community for decades.
Situated in a picturesque setting in the
Wolfe Recreation Ground in Luxford
Lane, the club has evolved from a
small outdoor lawn bowls facility into
a thriving year-round sports hub.
Now it is inviting residents to “Bowls
in Bloom” which it describes as “a day
of gardens, bowls and community.”
Chair, Linda Stevens said: “We
would like to invite people to come
along and visit our Club and enjoy our
gardens and facilities and take some
refreshment, with the added bonus
of watching our Crown Green event
planned in the afternoon.”
The free event, which kicks off at
11am, is being held on 8 August.
Originally founded as an outdoor
lawn bowling green, the Wolfe club
quickly established a reputation for
offering one of the finest bowling
settings in East Sussex. Members can
now enjoy outdoor summer bowls,
and short mat bowls indoor during
the winter months.
THERE was glorious weather and
a big turn-out for the Captain’s
Charity golf day at Crowborough
Beacon Golf Club recently.
The captain’s charities this year are
RNLI and ‘brainstrust’ — the brain
cancer charity and a substantial sum
was raised by way of sponsorship,
golf and a raffle.
The golf was a Stableford team
event and included teams from
near and far with visitors Ian Clark
and his team from Hampton Court
claiming top spot with 119 points.
Second was member Joe Parker’s
team with 112 and in third place was
the ladies 4 ball team from Royal
Ascot led by member Katie Livesey
scoring 110 points.
There were also nearest the pin
prizes but special mention is due
to Dave Bartholemew (Surrey
National Golf Club) who achieved
a hole in one on the Par 3 13th.
Many congratulations to all the
prize winners.
WELL done to members of Beacon
Academy’s Under 15s tennis
team who have been crowned
Sussex Champions.
The team, comprising Bertie,
Jacob, Finn and Tom, beat teams
from across Sussex on their way to
the prestigious titles. They enjoyed
wins over Hurst, Dorothy Stringer,
Brighton College, and Bede’s on
their way to claiming the shield.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news JULY 2026 SPORT 27
Crowborough Hockey Club —
winners on and off the pitch
BY VICKY WAYMAN
Awards evening caps
“fantastic” season
for the Crows
CROWBOROUGH hockey club
representatives travelled to
Leicester to accept their regional
titles at the England Hockey Awards.
Head coach Justin Singleton and
2026 season chair Danni Newitt
collected the Southeast Emerging
Club award. This followed a season
of on-field success and renewed
community connections. Harvey
Holman won the Southeast umpire
of the season award having officiated
at the National Finals of the In2s
school and club competitions, while
Vicky Wayman-Dennett won the Area
Volunteer category.
Four club sides returned to
summer action at the Saffron Sixes
tournament at Eastbourne. The
annual competition raises money and
awareness of the Meningitis Research
Foundation. It is in memory of
Eddie Rosen, who was a much-loved
goalkeeper at the club who died from
meningococcal septicaemia.
The Women’s Ones fielded a strong
lineup with Kate Baxter finishing
as top scorer. There were super
performances from the 10 strong
squad who topped their pool before
going out in the playoffs. Sam
Williams and Amanda Catling were in
fine form, as were the defence whose
attacking play saw the whole side
dangerous in front of goal.
The Women’s Twos soared to the
plate final with a 4-2 win against South
Saxons. In a scintillating display,
Grace Mercer, Poppy Cureton and
Matilda Whitney all scored, with
Whitney taking the ball from the
defensive circle and taking it all the
way to goal. There were assists for
hardworking midfielders Vicky
Dennett, Isla Potter and Flo Fuller. A
finals defeat to Burgess Hill included
strong defensive performances, with
Cath Rawlings making three penalty
saves with Sharon McGinley and
Claire North providing saving tackles.
Jethro Hook’s Men’s Tier Two
side finished second with some
classy strikes from Rohan Milne,
flair play from Ted Fulham and
Ethan Blake and excellent team play
throughout the squad.
Sunday saw Crows Juniors take
to the field. Managed by Baxter,
the energetic group gave a series
of wholehearted performances,
battling brilliantly against some of
the County’s top youth sides. The
Sussex Young Umpires officiated
at the event with Harvey Holman,
Isla Bysouth, Sophia Sharp and
George Lawson from Crowborough
included in the team.
Bysouth and Sharp then travelled
to Lee Valley on Wednesday to be
part of the ball patrol team at the
international Pro League fixture.
They were on duty for Argentina
Men’s victory over Australia. Tomas
Domene scored a brace to see
Argentina take all three points.
CROWBOROUGH Athletic FC has
capped off its season with the
club’s annual awards.
It was a season which the Crows
knew would be challenging as, having
secured promotion to the Isthmian
South East League, the team would be
playing at its highest ever level.
But despite some ups and downs,
the Crows not only survived at the
high level but did so with a solid
mid-table 14th finish, winning 16 of
their 42 games.
Among the award winners were:
Players’ Player of the Season — Harry
Forster; Young Player of the Season
— Josh Turner; Manager’s Player of
the Season — Marcus Goldsmith; and
Goal of the Season — Elliott Duncan
Chairman, Phil Tibbutt, said: “Well
done to all our winners on the night,
a special night and a final sign off of a
fantastic season.”
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28 SPORT
JULY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Sport
Crowborough end
long wait for victory
after tough start
to the season
The return of
junior cricket after
two decades
CROWBOROUGH Cricket Club’s
struggles in both the First and
Second XI’s continued through
May and into June, before a
spectacular individual
performance finally brought relief
for the club’s flagship side.
Since last month’s round-up,
fortunes remained bleak for both
teams as defeats continued to mount.
On May 24, the First XI suffered a
painful nine-wicket defeat to Iden CC,
while the Second XI went down by four
wickets against TW Super Kings. A
week later, football rather than cricket
played a part in Crowborough’s woes.
Arsenal’s appearance in the
Champions League final resulted in
all but two Arsenal-supporting players
making themselves unavailable,
leaving both sides severely weakened.
The depleted First XI travelled to
St Peters CC and were beaten by
97 runs, despite a brilliant battling
100 by Ian Easton. Meanwhile, the
Second XI endured an even tougher
afternoon, losing heavily to Bells Yew
Green by 141 runs.
The arrival of June brought little
improvement despite a rained off
weekend giving both teams 12 points
for cancelled games. Once the weather
improved the following week, the
arrival of Newhaven handed the 1st XI
another setback, winning by 67 runs
despite a remarkable all-round display
from Matt Cole.
The outstanding all-rounder scored
50 runs, claimed four wickets, held
three catches and added a run-out in a
heroic effort that ultimately could not
prevent defeat. Meanwhile, the 2nd
XI came up short by 47 runs against
Heathfield Park.
Eastbourne CC 253/9 (40 overs)
Crowborough 1sr XI 257/4 (34 overs)
Crowborough win by six wickets
With six consecutive defeats behind
them, Crowborough 1st XI travelled
to Eastbourne CC for their seventh
fixture of the campaign, returning
to the same ground where last
season’s dramatic “Great Escape” was
completed on the final day. This time,
memories proved inspirational.
Matt Cole remarkable all-round performance against Newhaven
Skipper Paul Langton led his side
to a long-awaited first victory of the
season thanks largely to a sensational
performance from Man of the Match
Chiggy Chauhan. After Eastbourne
posted 253 from their 40 overs,
excellent bowling from Kyle Hastilow,
Langton and Matt Cole ensured
the hosts were kept within reach.
Chauhan also chipped in with two
wickets and a run out to complete a
superb all-round contribution.
Crowborough’s reply began in the
worst possible fashion when opener
Jamie Anderson was bowled for a
duck in the opening over. However,
Ian Easton and Chauhan quickly
wrestled back the initiative with a
commanding partnership. Easton
made a fluent 33 before falling to
what many considered a harsh
LBW decision, bringing Matt Cole
to the crease.
Once again, Cole played the ideal
supporting role as Chauhan unleashed
a breathtaking innings, smashing 133
runs from just 78 balls to propel the
visitors towards victory.
Both batsmen departed before the
target had been secured, leaving
wicketkeeper Danny Foden and
bowling hero Hastilow to finish the
job. Hastilow’s explosive unbeaten
26 from just eight deliveries ensured
Crowborough crossed the line and
claimed their first win since this very
fixture last season. The 1st XI have
much ground to make up, but the
dramatic victory at Eastbourne may
yet prove to be the turning point in
Crowborough’s season.
What can be said of both sides is that
the team spirit at the club remains
high, and individual performances are
improving week on week. It won’t be
long before the 2nd XI claim their first
victory of the season, and the 1st XI
push on to cement their place outside
of the league relegation zone.
As ever, the club invites all of
Crowborough to come down to
support the teams, and there is
no better way to spend a Saturday
than watching the town’s finest on
a beautiful sunny day at the Wolfe
Recreation Ground.
BY IAN EASTON
CROWBOROUGH Cricket Club’s
junior section have played their first
games for about 20 years.
First were the U11 team against
Linden Park who decided to bat
first and a wicket a piece from
Ava Pollard (bowled) and Evan
Kilpatrick with a fantastic catch from
Hal Finnegan as well as brilliant
fielding all-round the hosts were
restricted to 253
Openers Ava Pollard and Jacob
Taylor faced the opposition’s
best bowlers with courage and
determination chipping away at the
target. They were replaced by Hal
Finnegan and Evan Kilpatrick who
both found the ropes reducing the
deficit even further. The third pair
were Freddy Carruthers and Bryn
Carr who made sure that the game
would go to the wire.
Oli White and captain Harry Smith
needed just less than a run-a-ball for
the final four overs and got to the
last over needing less than 10 and
the game could have gone either
Under 9s
way and although Crowborough
scored more runs they also lost more
wickets (which is minus 5 in junior
cricket) and the game quite fittingly
ended in a draw.
UNDER 9S
On 20 June the U9s travelled to Linden
Park and batting first, the visitors
found 4s and 6s through the first pair of
Matthew Thacker and Xander Oakley.
Rory Gatward and Joseph Penny
continued to score heavily against the
hosts and this was followed by Josiah
Carr and Euan Sunney and the final
pair Millie Carr and Lucas Fotoohi
finishing the innings with a very
respectable 143 for 5.
Defending a score is never easy
but Crowborough began strongly
with good bowling and fielding
by everyone in the team and they
were rewarded with a run-out and a
great catch by Rory Gatward off the
bowling of Josiah Carr.
Linden Park managed to keep up
with the run rate and won with 3 balls
to go as Crowborough were unable to
take another wicket.
Under 11s