News
Vice-Chancellor talks of shock following discovery of problems at historic castle
Queen’s University, owners of Herstmonceux Castle, are facing a substantial financial burden following the discovery in early November of structural defects in the South facing gatehouse while roofing work was being carried out. Roofing contractors alerted the management of Herstmonceux Castle Estate to possible problems they spotted while carrying out repairs. A specialist structural survey... Read more
30th November
Heathfield man takes on the competitive world of dog sledding
In a country that falls apart the moment it snows, it’s a bit of a surprise to find a Gold Medal Champion ‘musher’ living in Heathfield. Matt Hodgson has been racing Sleddogs for nearly 20 years. It all started with Alaskan Malamutes and then moved on to Canadian Eskimo Dogs, of which he still has... Read more
29th November
Seventeen recommendations made as a result of independent inquiry into David Fuller case
In December 2021, Heathfield man David Fuller, an electrical maintenance supervisor with Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, was convicted of the murders of Wendy Knell and Caroline Pierce in 1987. On his arrest, police officers conducted a search of his home address. This search uncovered printed photographs and video images, held on hidden computer... Read more
28th November
Sandhurst army scholarship for Heathfield Community College student
Heathfield Community College has received the fantastic news that Amy Washington-Thurston (Y13) has been awarded an Army Officer sixth form scholarship. This means she has been recognised as possessing exceptional leadership potential and following her studies has secured a place to train as an Army officer at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. This prestigious award... Read more
28th November
English Woodlands, Cross-in-Hand, has just become 100% employee-owned following its sale to a newly created Employee Ownership Trust.
English Woodlands, the Sussex tree nursery, has just become 100% employee-owned following its sale to a newly created Employee Ownership Trust. English woodland in Cross in Hand has announced that the business will become an employee-owned company, founder Michael Hardcastle said “We wanted to safeguard the independence of English Woodlands for the future whilst acknowledging... Read more
21st November
Lightning fibre scoop ISPA award
Lightning Fibre has been named as the ‘Best Consumer ISP with fewer than 50,000 customers’ by the Internet Service Providers’ Association at the 2023 ISPA awards. ISPA recognises outstanding excellence in the ISP industry and celebrates 25 Years. The ISPA Awards acknowledge the best and brightest in the industry, and the winners represent the pinnacle of innovation... Read more
16th November
Heathfield Community College celebrates Parliament Week
Politics in Parliament Week Although the news coming out of Westminster this week has been unexpected and bewildering at best. It is as important as ever that our young people understand how politics works and that they are not put off by all of the negative news frequently shared about politicians. Young people are the... Read more
16th November
Don’t miss Heathfield’s Christmas ‘switch on’ and late night shopping on 24 November 2023
Heathfield’s Christmas ‘switch on’ This year the town will come alive with the annual Christmas Lighting Up Event on Friday 24th November 2023 from 3.45pm until 6.30pm at the Fire Station. There will be performances from: Punnetts Town Primary School, All Saints & St Richards Primary School, entertainment from Marco the Magician, Heathfield Community College,... Read more
2nd November
Turkey farm supports farming charity
JR Sheffield turkey farm in Vines Cross, near Heathfield, will be once again be supporting the charity FCN – The Farming Community Network. It’s a voluntary organisation and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. Lucy Sheffield explains: “Since 2019 our lovely customers have given just over £400. People... Read more
26th October
High drama for Off the Line as they get the 2023 harvest in
Although every year brings different challenges in the world of wine production. 2023 certainly dealt Off the Line Vineyard, in Hellingly, East Sussex some surprises. A double decker bus catching fire close to the vineyard entrance in the middle of harvest could certainly not have been predicted! This led to the vineyard being inaccessible by road... Read more
20th October
Heathfield Community College re-opens after shock vandalism
Over the weekend Heathfield Community College in Heathfield, East Sussex was subject to trespassers in the early hours of Sunday morning. As a result, there was significant damage to school property across the site. The damage was physical and potentially put students at risk of harm. Parents received email communication to confirm the impact of... Read more
17th October
Nus Ghani opens new exercise path in Horam
Following more than two years of fundraising by the management committee a new 1km exercise path has been opened at Horam Recreation Ground. Phase 1 – the loop around the perimeter of the top field is now complete and has been officially opened by MP Nus Ghani. A large crowd came to witness the ribbon... Read more
17th October
Simon launches his new community initiative
We recently reported on the retirement from Waitrose of Simon Hudson, a hugely popular character – the community’s fondness was borne out in the huge engagement our Facebook post generated reaching over 30,000 people with over 500 people wishing him all the best for the future. Simon thanked every single one of the wellwishers. What... Read more
9th October
Hospice in the Weald Christmas Market
Hospice in the Weald Christmas Market is set to return this year and promises to be bigger and better than ever! From 10am until 4pm on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th November, the Hospice gardens will be transformed into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, a wonderful Christmas market, games, crafts and performances by Women... Read more
5th October
Jayne Torvill makes a guest appearance at Young at Heart Community Club in Heathfield
Young at Heart Community Club, based in Heathfield were delighted to welcome Olympic gold medal winner – ice dancer Jayne Torvill OBE last Tuesday to talk to the children of All Saints’ & St Richard’s Church of England Primary School who were brilliant with their questions! Other activity on the day included cherryspringstudio who kindly... Read more
2nd October
Heathfield Community College celebrates students’ achievements at awards event
On a sunny September evening last week, parents, staff and students gathered to celebrate the achievements of the students of Heathfield Community College over the course of 2022-23. Award certificates were presented to a number of students in each year group. These include ‘Honours’ for Effort and Progress and ‘Excellence’ awards for individual subjects as... Read more
27th September
New ‘free’ exercise sessions coming to Heathfield parks, plus funding to support additional activity
Wealden District Council, in partnership with town and parish councils and through funding provided by East Sussex Public Health, will be launching the projects. The activity in Heathfield includes the delivery, by industry leaders Our Parks, of weekly, free-of-charge outdoor physical activity sessions. New exercise sessions, tailored for all abilities, will be available and delivered... Read more
27th September
Last Sunday’s fun run raises over 90k for Hospice in the Weald
More than 900 supporters came together for an inspirational Hospice Run From toddlers to seasoned pros, more than 900 people from across the community joined Hospice Run to raise an incredible £91,000 for Hospice in the Weald. Special guest Paralympian Will Bayley officially launched the event, held in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday 17 September, giving... Read more
21st September
Heathfield’s ‘national treasure’ Simon Hudson announces retirement.
Heathfield’s ‘national treasure’ Simon Hudson announces retirement. Simon Hudson has been the welcoming face of Waitrose Heathfield since its opening on 23 September 2015 but, after eight years’ of service Simon will finally say his goodbyes after he has worked his last day later this month. Regulars to the store will have enjoyed his customary... Read more
20th September
The English Soap Company launches new Wintertide range
Waldron-based The English Soap Company has launched a new collection to smooth the journey into winter with festive fragrances and products to help keep the skin clean and nourished as the weather turns colder and brisker. The Wintertide Collection includes four fragrances: Frankincense and Myrrh; Winter Solstice; Polar Lights and Nordic Pine. There are candles,... Read more
18th September
Horam facility receives grant for pathway
The local community and wildlife will benefit after the GAP – Get Active Pathway at Horam Recreation Ground – received grants from The Veolia Environmental Trust, Horam Parish Council, Biffa Award, Pro Eco and Lodge Group Care UK Ltd. Local MP Nus Ghani comes along to support the start of the pathway constructionLeft to Right:... Read more
18th September
Bubbles and fun at Radiant Medical Aesthetics & Skin Clinic’s launch event last Saturday in Heathfield
Last Saturday 9 September saw the launch of a welcome new arrival to Heathfield’s High Street. Radiant Medical Aesthetics & Skin Clinic. Guests were welcomed to the new clinic with a glass of bubbly, a tour of the premisis, an introduction to the treatments and a goodie bag. The new venture is owned by Karen... Read more
14th September
Heathfield woman has been fined and banned for failure to control her dogs
Hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of livestock are injured or killed by dogs every year in the South East. Although, most dog owners are responsible there are others who are not. A woman who repeatedly failed to keep her dogs under control, including around livestock, has been convicted at court. Livia Morvay, 65, of... Read more
4th September
Le Marché’s French and English traders drew huge crowds to Heathfield on Bank Holiday Monday
Bank Holiday Monday 28 August saw the popular Le Marché back in Heathfield, East Sussex. This annual Anglo-French market event is a combination of superb entertainment and 110 French and English stalls. This year’s market was blessed with fine weather which drew huge and happy crowds to the 26th Anglo/French market in Heathfield. The event... Read more
31st August
Herstmonceux Castle Estate awarded Quality Assured Visitor Attraction marque
Visit England has once again awarded their quality assurance marque to the Herstmonceux Castle Estate with an improved score that is nearly 10% higher compared to two years ago. The overall score increased from a 70% to 78% approval rating. The Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme (VAQAS) is a recognised accreditation covering a broad range... Read more
31st August
Davina McCall and Paralympian Will Bayley urge locals to support Hospice Run
TV presenter Davina McCall along with Paralympian Will Bayley are encouraging people of all ages to sign up to the iconic Hospice Run this September. This year’s Run promises to have something for everyone, with a new half marathon, and Hospice Heroes themed Family Fun Run, along with the classic 5km and 10km routes. TV... Read more
17th August
Heathfield Vets given accolade at BestUKVets Awards 2023
At a memorable Gala Awards Ceremony, the winners of the BestUKVets Awards 2023 were announced with Heathfield Vetsbeing named Best in County for East Sussex. In front of an audience of over 150 veterinary professionals in London, Heathfield Vets scooped the accolade having gathered outstanding feedback from their clients. The BestUKVets Awards celebrate vet practices... Read more
10th August
Heathfield Youth Centre receives funding for a major overhaul
Good news for the young people of Heathfield after the announcement of a major upgrade of facilities at the Youth Centre located next to the Co-op. The centre will undergo a major upgrade thanks to a funding share of more than £7 million of Government funding. The Youth Investment Fund will help East Sussex County... Read more
10th August
Rare opportunity to see behind the scenes at Wealden Crematorium
Wealden Crematorium will be hosting an open day event in August. Following on from the success of last year’s open day, another one will be held on the 16 August between 11am-3pm. The friendly crematorium staff will be offering guided tours to go behind-the-curtain and demystify the cremation process – everyone is welcome. The crematorium... Read more
3rd August
Heathfield residents and shop workers mourn loss of popular resident
Heathfield resident Rosemary Westacott passed away unexpectedly on July 11, 2023. Rosemary was a popular and well-known figure in and around the town; a valued friend to many and a much-loved mother. She lived in Ridgeway Court on Mutton Hall Hill. Rosemary, 83, moved to Heathfield several years ago and helped out at Cuculo as... Read more
1st August
Celebrity antiques expert Charles Hanson invites locals to dust off heirlooms for charity valuation day
Find out what your family heirlooms gathering dust in the attic could be worth as TV’s very own antiques expert Charles Hanson hosts a special Valuation Day in Five Ashes. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a treasure found at your local charity shop, discover its secrets and value with Charles Hanson, supported by fellow... Read more
18th July
Horam Village Hall to benefit from local lottery
Horam Village Hall and Recreation Ground is delighted to be one of the causes for the Wealden Community Lottery, an exciting weekly lottery that raises money for good causes in Wealden District. All good causes supported by the lottery will benefit Wealden District and its residents. Play the lottery, support Horam Village Hall and Recreation... Read more
5th July
New bus route connects Heathfield to Brighton via Lewes and north to Tunbridge Wells
New 29A bus route announced as part of the improved Regency network. A new bus route has been announced connecting Heathfield with Uckfield, Lewes and Brighton and Crowborough and Tunbridge Wells to the north. The new route includes connections to the Universities of Sussex and Brighton. Brighton & Hove buses have announced that they are... Read more
3rd July
Heathfield Community College: Good, great, Outstanding: a “vibrant and nurturing school…where pupils flourish”.
Heathfield Community College: Good, great, Outstanding: a “vibrant and nurturing school…where pupils flourish”. Senior leaders at Heathfield Community College have expressed appreciation to the community for the collaborative work that has led to all areas of the College being rated as Good, “great” or Outstanding, following the publication of the latest inspection report. Following a... Read more
29th June
Skooch Media returns with a new film currently in production on location in East Sussex & Kent
Local Heathfield based production company Skooch Media is returing with a new film, currently in production across Sussex and Kent, the new film is The Presence of Snowgood. The film comes off the back of a movie short, ‘A Curious Tale‘, which was released in 2021, a classic ghost story set in the heart of... Read more
8th June
Cousins to walk beneath the stars to remember special mum and aunt
Cousins preparing to walk beneath the stars in memory of their special mum and aunt are encouraging others to join them in this year’s Moonlight Walk. Milli Sales (32) and Molly Smallcombe (22) will be among those taking part in the popular event on Saturday 17th June to raise funds for Hospice in the Weald.... Read more
1st June
New Lib-Dem and Green Party Alliance signed to usher in a new era at Wealden District Council
New Wealden civic leaders appointed A new chair and vice-chair have been appointed at Wealden District Council. At a Full Council meeting on Wednesday 24 May, newly elected Green Party councillor Christina Coleman, who represents Danehill and Fletching ward, was appointed chair and the vice-chair named as Liberal Democrat councillor Gavin Blake-Coggins, who represents Hailsham... Read more
26th May
This year’s Heathfield Show is all set to be a great day out
This year’s Heathfield Show is one of the area’s biggest and most well-attended events and it is just around the corner, the show ground is packed full of stalls and entertainment and it is set to be better than ever. It’s a real look at country life. The Heathfield Agricultural Show, which takes place on Saturday... Read more
23rd May
Erin Denness joins Hughes Solicitors to lead the residential property team
We are delighted to announce that Erin Denness will be joining the team in Heathfield as a partner and head of our residential property department. Erin is a senior solicitor with over 15 years of experience in handling all types of residential property matters both for individuals and corporate clients. She joins Hughes Solicitors from... Read more
23rd May
The New Enterprise Zone – a showcase for start-up businesses at The Heathfield Show
Supporting new businesses in and around Heathfield The Heathfield Agricultural Show was the pioneer of an initiative, back in 2015, to offer businesses, that have started trading since the last Show, an opportunity to have a complimentary trade stand at the Heathfield Agricultural Show. This popular formula for allocating these stands has been copied by... Read more
16th May
Enjoy hidden gems as gates open for Hospice’s Open Gardens season
Visit more than 20 beautiful private gardens not normally open to the public this summer across East Sussex and Kent in aid of Hospice in the Weald. The Hospice’s Open Gardens scheme offers a great day out for the whole family, whether you’re looking for a laid-back stroll or some top gardening tips. Take the... Read more
11th May
Clean sweep for the independents in both Heathfield North & South elections
As we recently reported, Heathfield North and South wards were being contested in yesterday’s May 4 local elections, by independent candidates who were taking on the incumbent Conservative councillors. It has just been announced that both Mike Gadd (Heathfield North) and Kevin Benton (Heathfield South) were elected with large majorities. Mike Gadd (Heathfield South) received... Read more
5th May
Independents try to wrest control from the Tories in both Heathfield South and North in the local elections May 4
The local Wealden Council election on May 4 will see three independent candidates join in the battle to win in both Heathfield North & South. Kevin Benton takes on Conservative Tom Guyton-Day in Heathfield South and Mike Gadd and Mian Naz take on Ray Cade, Conservative, David Newman, Labour in Heathfield North. Heathfield is a... Read more
27th April
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner welcomes new recruitment opportunity
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne has welcomed a new interim programme introduced by Sussex Police aiming to attract a different cohort into policing. Following the Home Secretary’s request that the College of Policing and police forces work together to explore options for a new non-degree entry route into policing, the programme will... Read more
24th April
Heathfield’s Cuculo Cheese & Wine announces an exciting new direction for the business.
Cuculo, cheese and wine specialist store is located on Heathfield High Street, East Sussex – it has been trading successfully for over 10 years, and has just announced a new partnership with two new directors to diversify the ownership of the business. The directors will now include James MacNay and his wife Cinzia Long who... Read more
24th April
A new rural grants programme is set to kick off in Wealden later this year.
Funding to support rural businesses and communities has been awarded to Wealden District Council through the Rural England Prosperity Fund. The council has been allocated £838,120 of capital funding for a two year period starting this month. The fund will allow the council to administer and manage a business grants programme, which will be launched... Read more
20th April
Tributes paid to dedicated, long-serving councillor
TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a long-serving county councillor who died at the age of 70. Cllr Rupert Simmons, who represented the Heathfield and Mayfield division and served as a Cabinet member responsible for economy, died on Monday, April 17. Paying tribute to his friend and colleague, Council Leader Cllr Keith Glazier... Read more
18th April
Lightning Fibre delivers multi-Gig Full Fibre connectivity to the 2023 Heathfield Agricultural Show
Lightning Fibre have agreed to a new partnership to connect their Full Fibre broadband network to the Heathfield Show Showground this year, delivering up to 10Gbps to the event site for free, giving hyper fast broadband access to traders, staff and guests – over 17,000 people are expected to attend on the 27th May. The... Read more
11th April
Police appeal for information on whereabouts of Heathfield man
Do you know the whereabouts of Louis Sawyer? Detectives from Sussex Police who are investigating the theft of a car and subsequent road traffic collision in January 2023 would like to speak to the 26 year old from Heathfield. Louis Sawyer is believed to have information which could assist the police with their investigation. He... Read more
11th April
Give your children a head start this tax year
Here Cranwell Wealth Solutions, a Heathfield-based wealth advising firm provides their guide on how best to support children financially. If you’re part of the ‘sandwich’ generation, with responsibility for a young family and elderly parents, you can feel pulled in every direction financially. Making the most of tax reliefs and allowances now can really help... Read more
9th April
