Features
Variety is a key word when working at Oakdown House
Who wants to do the same thing day in day out? Not many people! Oakdown House is a residential home for adults with learning disabilities, it supports residents with a range of different needs in four different units within a beautiful country setting. No two days are ever the same so variety is assured when... Read more
28th November
Heathfield Traders unite to bring festive Christmas fun to Heathfield
This time last year, shops in Heathfield were reeling from the impact of having the High Street closed for the best part of the month of November. Campaigns like the one we ran #shopheathfield which promoted the need to support our local shopkeepers coupled with the activities mounted by the businesses themselves helped to keep... Read more
27th November
From Hellas to Heathfield – how a young Greek couple created a thriving business in a small East Sussex town
Dora and Thanasis are from the coastal Greek town of Volos, one of the largest and most attractive cities in Greece. This busy town is backed by the mountainous region of Pelion and enjoys a wonderful seafront with charming little restaurants and of course some beautiful beaches. However, Dora and Thanasis said goodbye to this... Read more
24th November
Monumental stonemasons – Burslem, a thriving business creating memorials large and small
Tucked away on the road between Bells Yew Green and Frant, monumental stonemasons since 1880, Burslem has established a reputation for the highest quality finished products and customer care. They have nearly 140 years of experience providing and restoring memorials for generations of families across the south east of England and larger memorials for clients... Read more
20th November
Which Christmas tree should you choose? We have all the answers and advice
The benefits of having a real tree in your home at Christmas have been well publicised over the last few years. Studies show pine needle aroma can help lighten moods and reduce stress. In addition, while technology is making it easier for family members to do their own thing, choosing and decorating a real tree... Read more
15th November
Vines Cross turkey business is a real family affair
Established over 65 years ago, the Sheffield family farm has produced turkeys for the seasonal market since 1950. The farm was originally brought by Jim’s father and mother, Jack and Rita Sheffield (hence J&R Sheffield). The farm was originally run as a mixed farm and then, following the end of the Second World War with... Read more
9th November
Halloween, bonfire and half-term ideas
It’s a busy time of year with half-term, Halloween and bonfire season coinciding. Love or hate bonfire season and Halloween, we have some ideas for you and tips from our Members. With Halloween falling in the middle of half term there is a big buildup to the main event. Some spooky activities are taking place... Read more
25th October
As nights draw in, it is a good time to think about the challenges of night driving
The nights are drawing in and Winter is on its way. Many people find that they don’t feel comfortable driving at night and reorganise their travel to avoid night driving. While others drive at night but feel less confident. This can be due to many factors. Around 75% of motorists report feeling stress when driving... Read more
22nd October
Putting protection back on the table
Protecting yourself and your family is just as important as investing money for the future. When it comes to exciting financial purchases, life insurance is unlikely to top the list. Most of us would rather bolster our investment portfolio, buy a rental property or improve our pension provision. But it is vital if your loved ones... Read more
16th October
Need some extra space? Safe + Secure Storage can help
Natasha Robinson has turned an empty barn into a thriving business, with her Safe + Secure Storage solution. She showcased the business as a winner of one of the sponsored New Enterprise Zone showstands, at The Heathfield Show, in May of 2019. ” It was a good boost to our business to do the show,... Read more
8th October
Friendly Creatures – a fresh approach to dog training
Friendly Creatures is a new dog training service, created by Lydia Burke an animal behaviourist from Burwash Common. We went over to watch the training and get a feel from Lydia about her ethos and what she is offering dog owners. “As far back as I can remember, I have loved being around animals and... Read more
7th October
Sussex soap company goes from strength to strength
Hidden away on a small, farm-based industrial estate in the sleepy country lanes of Waldron in rural East Sussex is a business that is quietly and confidently flourishing. Christina May started nearly 20 years ago after the co-founders Bob and Juliet Butts discovered some vintage soap moulds lying disused in a machinery workshop on a... Read more
30th September
Bursting the retirement bubble
Savers drawing a pension income they don’t yet need are in danger of leaving a hole in their finances when they eventually hit retirement. New research suggests that people are taking money from their pension long before they really need it, putting them at risk of depleting their savings before they retire. Half of those... Read more
11th September
Was the property market a bit overweight?
Was the property market a bit over weight? Paul Wilson ponders the current market. What most people do when they see the inches piling on is to diet. Losing a bit of weight is a healthy thing to do. The property market acts in much the same way. After a period of excess, when things... Read more
10th September
Five step guide to improving home security
Figures from the Office for National Statistics for the year up to September 2018 show the number of domestic burglaries in England and Wales was 644,000 – and that’s an improvement on the previous year! It’s a statistic that demonstrates to all householders that no home is immune from the threat posed by burglars, but there’s plenty you... Read more
6th September
Archery – an activity with multiple benefits for everyone
I have watched various forms of archery and tried things like air rifle shooting but never thought this very ancient activity would be something I would enjoy or be strong enough to do. An hour or so and a ‘taster’ session with the highly experienced Adrian Caddy who runs ACA certainly changed my mind. We... Read more
29th August
Work experience is a win-win for us and Anna
We often receive requests from students wanting work experience and we are always delighted to help if we can – it’s our way of ‘giving back’ to the community and helping young people embark on their careers. Our recent trainee was a delight and we know she is going to be a successful journalist. We... Read more
8th August
Heatwave led to fan-tastic sales for High Street trader
Temperatures of up to 34.2 degrees encapsulated Heathfield and the surrounding areas last month. Reminders to drink plenty of water, seek shade and stay cool were put in place to help stay hydrated and healthy in high temperatures. Ensuring that the above advice has been taken on board means that you can safely enjoy the... Read more
5th August
Shining a light on wonderful Thorpe Gardens
Perhaps like me you have driven past Thorpe Gardens on the road between Horam and Cross in Hand hundreds of times. I live in Hellingly and belong to Cross in Hand Tennis Club so it is a regular route for me – especially in the summer. Thorpe Gardens is almost apologetic in its marketing –... Read more
4th August
Here’s what to do if you don’t get the A-Level results you want
With A-Level results day just three weeks away, many students are being advised to prepare for clearing. Here’s what you need to know and how you can get ready for results day. Plan now for Clearing!Many people think that university clearing is only open on A-level results day and for a few weeks afterwards – but this... Read more
29th July
Ideas to keep the kids occupied this Summer – clubs and workshops
The Summer holidays can be a real challenge for parents. Some parents are looking to find ways of having their children cared for, while other parents are searching for ideas to keep their children occupied during the long holidays. Parents of younger children often want to find activities they can share with their kids, and... Read more
17th July
Burial vs cremation – the numbers don’t stack up says Heathfield funeral director
Do your loved ones know what you want to happen to your body when you die? A recent poll commissioned by Axell-Eames suggests this is not the case. When the funeral director firm asked people about their funeral preferences, 76 percent of people chose cremation while 24 percent opted for burial. And yet the company’s... Read more
16th July
Investing the exit proceeds of your business
Building a successful business can involve a lifetime of work; so when the time comes to sell; would you know the best options for investing the sale money wisely? It’s important to make sure you and your family can enjoy the benefits for many decades to come, but how? Here Stephen Palmer, Founder and Director... Read more
11th July
Heathfield Ironmongers celebrate their 100 year anniversary!
This year is the 100th anniversary of the Heathfield Ironmongers on Heathfield High St, to mark this milestone in the first week of July you will see some amazing competitions and offers in store. Over a 100 years ago, before World War 1, a Hailsham based ironmongery company called A.F. Smith, opened the original... Read more
27th June
Wine Festival launches, Saturday 1st June 2019 at Hidden Spring, Horam
It’s all go at Hidden Spring Vineyard, Horam, East Sussex. Not only have they just been awarded a silver medal at the 2019 International Wine Challenge for their Bacchus (2017); but they are hosting the first Sussex Weald Festival of Wine on Saturday, June 1st. Five outstanding Sussex vineyards have united to create a FESTIVAL OF WINE a... Read more
29th May
If you love horses – make sure you come along to The Heathfield Show
The Heathfield Show has built up a brilliant reputation over the past few decades as a first- class venue attracting top class exhibitors and serious competitors There are 90 horse classes over the day with almost 600 entries each year. Classes start early in the morning with six dedicated equine rings showing horses and ponies... Read more
24th May
Monster trucks return and first for Shetland Pony Grand National
From the heavy horse parade to the Shetland Pony Grand National and Big Pete, The Monster Trucks & The Grim Reeper, ring one is the place to watch some spectacular entertainment. The Monster Trucks will be returning to the Heathfield Show on Saturday. Big Pete is one of Europe’s largest Monster Trucks with a full-size... Read more
23rd May
Bigger and better Arts and Crafts Marquee at this year’s Heathfield Show
Last year’s new format Arts & Crafts marquee was a huge success. This year 2019 there is an even bigger and better marquee. This dedicated area will be for like minded creative businesses to showcase and sell their hand-crafted, unique products. From wood crafts and metal smiths, glass, ceramics and textiles, through to artists and... Read more
23rd May
Foodie Delights at The Heathfield Show
Food and drink are a major attraction for visitors to The Heathfield Show. You will find everything from fairground fodder to local specialist producers, food trucks and a Food Tent. Farmers’ Markets are a a great opportunity for producers to sell directly to the public. People love shopping at Farmers’ Markets – it’s the only... Read more
22nd May
See some of the best livestock in the country at The Heathfield Show
Cattle, sheep, horses, pigs and poultry will be in abundance at this year’s show. As well as the chance to get up close to all types of livestock you can watch some of the best breeders and handlers in the country compete against each over for the coveted trophies and rosettes. There is also the... Read more
21st May
Explore Country Ways from a bygone age at The Heathfield Show
This year Country Ways will feature old favourites and some new faces. Traditional practices, crafts and activities can be seen in the Country Ways Arena and up close in the Country Ways tent. The live displays will include the ever popular Terrier Racing, displays from gun dogs, sheep dogs, birds of prey and working horses... Read more
20th May
Is it possible to drive 3,000 miles through Europe in a Nissan Leaf?
A Punnetts Town couple who have embraced electric motoring have set themselves a challenge to see whether it is possible to enjoy a driving holiday around Europe using the available charging point infrastructure. Graham and Sarah Hutton will embark on their 3,000 mile Grand Tour of Europe, which they hope will include at least ten... Read more
20th May
Improve your home and your lifestyle
One of the South East’s largest and most successful home improvement companies is based right here in Heathfield. With an ethos of offering the right products, made-to-measure in the right style at the right price, County – The Home Improvers is going from strength to strength. Definitely worth a visit is the impressive supercentre in... Read more
17th May
Fledgling businesses get a leg up in the New Enterprise Zone at The Heathfield Show
Each year, against stiff competition a group of fledgling local businesses win the chance to enjoy a free stand at The Heathfield Show. Located in the New Enterprise Zone, a range of different exhibitors will show off what they do, and give you the opportunity to engage with them. The Heathfield News was offered the... Read more
16th May
The Heathfield Agricultural Show, building bridges between town and country
Complete Land Management have been exhibiting at The Heathfield Show for over ten years, we asked Mandy Ashdown, of the Sussex-based company, to give us some insight into why they keep coming back for more. Farming is changing more quickly than it ever has, so a lot of people in towns and cities have no... Read more
15th May
Paella and palm trees for Heathfield Community College’s orchestra
During the first week of the Easter holidays, the Heathfield Community College’s Music department undertook their 6th European Music Tour. Following visits to Italy, Austria and France, this year saw them return to Spain and the town of Tossa de Mar, Catalonia where they had previously visited in 2014. The aim of these tours is... Read more
3rd May
Calling all Heathfield Show Exhibitors!
The Heathfield News will be running a Heathfield Agricultural Show special all week from Monday 20 May until the show day Saturday 25 May. The week will be packed full of features about the show and competitions to win tickets and more. All exhibitors are invited to send in Press Releases, images and information about marketing initiatives... Read more
1st May
Great bits of advice for effective revision
While many people are relaxing this Easter weekend, local college students preparing for GCSE and A levels will no doubt be getting their heads down to a bit of revision. We have teamed up with Dr Lisette Johnston Head of School at ScreenSpace . She has given us some useful ideas on how to make revision as productive... Read more
18th April
Hidden Spring Vineyard celebrates the bottling of their 2018 vintage wines
Chris and David of Horam based, Hidden Spring are celebrating the first onsite bottling of their wines; although grapes have been grown on the site since 1986, historically the wines were actually made elsewhere. But, this year five wines have been bottled from grapes from the Hidden Spring Vineyard. There are two still white... Read more
9th April
Ideas for Easter – chocolate, eggs and bunnies
Cuculo for a great choice of chocolates and Easter Eggs The ever popular deli on Heathfield’s High St, now stocks a range of luxury chocolates in their new bespoke chocolate chiller cabinet. H&R, English chocolate truffles have pride of place, with a choice of Belgium premium chocolates alongside. The store also has Italian Easter... Read more
6th April
Tax year end countdown
The approach of the financial year-end marks a final opportunity to ensure you have used all your tax-saving allowances. Stephen Palmer of Cranwell Wealth Solutions in Uckfield explores your various options here. Pension plans For pension savers, no news was good news in last year’s Budget. Widespread predictions of cuts to pension tax relief came to... Read more
3rd April
You don’t have to spend a fortune on Mother’s Day to show your mum you care
Mother’s Day is fast approaching but it’s not too late to arrange something to show how much you appreciate your mum – and there are lots of things you can do even if you are on a tight budget. The obvious choice is taking your mother to lunch but many restaurants like The Heathfield Tavern... Read more
22nd March
Now or never for this year’s ISA?
As the days count down to the end of the tax year, how many investors have yet to decide whether, or where, to use their ISA allowance? And how are uncertain times effecting investors? Stephen Palmer of Cranwell Wealth Solutions in Uckfield explores the various options here. It’s often said that time in the market is more... Read more
21st March
Pioneering and incredible work to help animals
Looking from the outside you wouldn’t know that there is pioneering work going on in this small rural practice. But a chat with Practice Manager Donné Stam reveals that behind the doors of Heathfield Vets in Hailsham Road, they are carrying out pioneering and incredible work to help animals. Stem cell therapy is one of... Read more
15th March
A taste of tapas comes to Hidden Spring Vineyard
Horam Home Kitchen has been working with Hidden Spring Vineyard in Horam, for a while now, creating pop up events at the vineyard and catering for group bookings. The latest venture is two nights of tapas on 12 and 13 April, served in the intimate setting of the vineyard’s tasting room, with the stunning view... Read more
6th March
The case for a midlife MOT
A financial health check in your 40s or 50s could significantly improve your chances of a comfortable retirement, according to Steve Palmer director of an Uckfield financial advice firm. Steve from Cranwell Wealth Solutions said retirement was increasingly seen as a long journey to look forward to not, as it once was, a relatively short... Read more
11th February
Need some inspiration? Top pick of great ideas for Valentine’s Day
With Valentine’s Day only around the corner, we have done the hard work, and put together a selection of great ideas for ways to treat your loved one this February 14th. The Middle House, Mayfield, is one of our favourite places to eat, you can enjoy the contemporary bistro or the cosy restaurant area. For... Read more
4th February
As 2019 kicks off, Paul Wilson shares his thoughts on the local housing market
A recent survey showed that East Sussex has some of the most expensive postcodes outside of London, but could that mean that property is over priced and hard to sell? We asked Paul Wilson of Rowland Gorringe for his perspective on the market as we enter 2019. This is what he had to say: If... Read more
9th January
With so many festive foods on offer, how do you choose the right wine?
We asked this question to wine expert James MacNay, of Cuculo Cheese and Wine in Heathfield, and he gave us lots of helpful advice and ideas for festive drinks. “Choosing the right wine can be tricky, especially as turkey has both light meat and the darker more flavoursome leg and thigh meat, and breaking with... Read more
12th December