News
Public speaking is a big hit at Heathfield Community College
Many adults find public speaking a challenging prospect. School age pupils even more so. To help give students valuable experience the school organised for Speakers For Schools to lead a day long workshop. It was hoped that this would scaffold Year 10 students’ response to public speaking into preparing and presenting in front of their... Read more
23rd June
Heathfield production company start filming in East Sussex locations for new TV short
Heathfield based production company Skooch Media has been popping up all over East Sussex whilst filming scenes for its new film ‘A Curious Tale’. A ghost story loosely based on an old english mystery novel about the finding of a Crown which in turn is protected by its supernatural guardian, William Hagar. Story synopsis Pete... Read more
22nd June
Heathfield business fairs well after opening its high street doors just weeks before the first national lockdown in March 2020
Cranwell Wealth Solutions is a financial planning practice with branches in Heathfield and Uckfield. What makes them different is while many businesses are moving online and away from our high streets, Cranwell has a passion for investing in retail space along our much-valued high streets. This not only provides a convenient place to welcome clients,... Read more
16th June
Melina Joy Opticians is changing the way it does things
Melina Joy Opticians, on Heathfield High Street, opened their doors in 1992 – at the core of the practice there has always been exceptional patient care and it remains so to this day. It has continued to invest heavily in the very best equipment and has three outstanding consulting rooms with the latest technology including... Read more
16th June
Vaccinations opened up to 23 year olds amid fears of a surge of cases in Wealden.
In the latest figures published yesterday it notes that there were 64 new COVID-19 cases reported in East Sussex in the latest available 7-day period as published by GOV.UK on Sunday 13 June 2021 at 4pm. That’s up from 46 when last reported. Numbers are increasing Area Rate per 100,000 population East Sussex 12 South... Read more
14th June
Heathfield Youth Drama are back with a splash!
Heathfield Youth Drama Group making a splash After months of drama by Zoom Heathfield Youth Drama are now properly back in action. You can only begin to imagine how challenging socially distanced remote theatre was for the tutors and young actors. Desperate to get back out there performing. The club’s first production, since Covid struck, is Aladdin which will be on stage, outside at the... Read more
10th June
Four Hundred and Forty One…
We hear from Independent Candidate Kevin Benton who took part in the District Council By-election on 6th May 2021 441 is a number that will for ever be embedded in my mind, it is the number of voters who had trustand voted for me in the ward of Heathfield South in May this year.I extend... Read more
3rd June
Rotary Club treats families to the ‘big top’
Everyone loves the Circus, especially children. When John Lawson’s Circus arrived at Hellingly recently, the members of Heathfield & Waldron Rotary Club decided that after such a difficult year it would be good to treat children and carers to a visit. It was hoped to bring some light relief to some of those most disadvantaged... Read more
3rd June
Heathfield Farmers’ Market is back
After being closed for several months the Heathfield Farmers’ Market will be back in the Co-op car park in the High Street on Saturday 19th June from 9am to 12.30pm. There will be lots of lovely fresh produce available including meat, game, fruit, vegetables, cakes, Indian specialities and also fresh flowers and plants. There are... Read more
2nd June
Community Groups in Rother urged to apply for funding
COMMUNITY groups and organisations are invited to apply to Rother’s Community Grants Scheme for a share of £130,000 which funds projects that will enhance the lives of residents. Many of the villages to the east of Heathfield are included. Dallington, Burwash Common, Burwash Weald, and Burwash for example. The medium and large grant schemes for... Read more
1st June
Heathfield Community College is bursting with creativity #EduArtsFest
Celebrating Creativity at Heathfield Community College #EduArtsFest Along with schools all over the country, on 28 May 2021 Heathfield Community College is celebrating the vital role of the arts and the fantastic work created by children and young people. This event will be hosted on a bespoke page of the college website and will join... Read more
28th May
May half-term at The Herstmonceux Castle Estate
An enchanting day out in the East Sussex countryside Within the beautiful 300-acre estate, you can explore formal gardens, woodland trails, meadows, and lakes, all set around a majestic 15th century moated castle. For younger visitors, there is an outdoor play area and giant tree swing plus the family challenge of the Marlow Rope Maze... Read more
26th May
Last Call for entries to the Heathfield ‘virtual’ Show
Never too young to start having fun learning how to milk a cow Virtual Heathfield Show This major agricultural event in Heathfield has been one of the most visible casualties in the rural calendar. So this year, no worrying about the weather incase we are knee deep in mud or alternatively roasting in the open... Read more
24th May
Plans for 370 houses on Hellingly farmland
One of the last green fields in Hellingly is set to disappear after outline planning permission was granted recently for 370 dwellings. The huge development is proposed for farmland off New Road in Hellingly by Taylor Wimpey. According to a post on the Save Wealden From Over Development Facebook page an ’administration error’ meant that... Read more
20th May
Newly elected Wealden District Councillors take their seats
Heathfield South saw a close run race between the Independent candidate Kevin Benton and the winner – Conservative Tom Guyton-Day, with only 250 votes between the candidates. Heathfield North was also retained by the Conservatives. Local election turnouts are notoriously low and this election was no exception. This is worth remembering, because although Wealden District... Read more
20th May
Local causes can apply now for Coop funding
Coop supports thousands of local causes, charities, groups and activities across the nation. Applications are now open with the annual selection of the Local Community Fund causes, being a key event in the diary. If you are a local cause or charity that supports one of either: access to food mental health skills opportunities for... Read more
18th May
Talented cooks’ recipes sought for Horam Coop Community Cookbook
Horam Coop are on the hunt for local culinary enthusiasts to submit recipes for their upcoming Coop Community Cookbook. The book will be a compilation of dishes and recipes from local people; with the aim of bringing the community together after what’s been a difficult year. The Cookbook itself will be available in the store... Read more
13th May
Isenhurst Health and Fitness is open and welcoming members at Cross in Hand
It really has been quite a year for all leisure, gyms and health clubs, but with the doors to Cross in Hand Isenhurst Health Club now firmly back open, the teams are excited to be welcoming back members. Due to the Government’s latest Covid-19 guidelines, the gyms and swimming pools are open and operating, but... Read more
11th May
First independent candidate in Heathfield by-elections for decades
Local authorities in East and West Sussex have polls taking place on May 6th which include county council elections. The UK Government previously postponed elections scheduled for 2020 due to Covid-19. The Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner election will take place on the same day. There are vacancies in four Wards on Wealden District Council:... Read more
4th May
Four million steps in May to help animal charity
Heathfield Vets staff are aiming to complete a staggering ‘4 Million Steps in May’ to raise money for the Oriental Cat Welfare Trust. The whole team will be counting steps as they treat patients, carry out consultations and surgery, and of course, cuddle the pets they are seeing. The Oriental Cat Welfare Trust (OCWT) provides... Read more
30th April
U Vinyl records opening in Horam – satisfy your passion for music
In 2015, Karl decided to set up a business buying and selling vinyl records. As a collector himself since a child, music has always been a true passion. Back then, vinyl was not as popular as it is today and it felt like a huge risk to take. Initially Karl sold records on eBay, mainly,... Read more
27th April
Local charity celebrates breakthrough in brain tumour treatment
The father of a young man diagnosed at the age of 20 months with a medulloblastoma brain tumour has welcomed the news that scientists have found a new way to starve cancerous brain tumour cells of energy in order to prevent further growth. Breakthough Discovery at Queen Mary University, London The findings by Professor Silvia... Read more
21st April
Quiet COVID-19 Vaccination Session available for eligible over 30s at The Brighton Centre
Saturday 17 April, 4.30pm – 7pm Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust is pleased to be able to offer a dedicated ‘Quiet COVID-19 Vaccination Session’ for people requiring their first dose of the COVID vaccination. The details are: WHEN: Saturday 17 April, 4.30pm – 7pm WHERE: The Brighton Centre, Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2GR BOOK: By calling... Read more
14th April
Time capsule to mark opening of new development for older people in Heathfield
This week, Abbeyfield South Downs is launching a time capsule initiative to celebrate the opening of its affordable rental development Holdenhurst – and is inviting the local Heathfield community to get involved. The time capsule will be buried under a Monkey Puzzle tree on the Holdenhurst site on Mill Road in May. It will include... Read more
13th April
Off the Line Vineyard fly the flag for wine exports
First time exporting to Norway Off The Line Vineyard based at North Street, Hellingly BN27 4EA is celebrating as it continues to grow its business with a milestone in wine exporting. The Hip Rosé still wine was selected in a blind tasting by the Norwegian state run wine and spirit monopoly business Vinmonopolet. It is... Read more
13th April
Covid 19 vaccine programme stalls at 50+
The rapid rollout of the vaccination programme has slowed down and appears stuck on 50+ for the time being. This stall is in part due to the fact that second vaccinations are now taking place which is preventing the next group from being called. If you want to find out more it is important not... Read more
12th April
Portrait awards launched to raise money for Demelza
Sarah Tate Photography is launching the Fine Art Portrait Awards next week in an effort to raise vital funds for Demelza Hospice Care for Children. As well as raising money for the charity, the initiative gives people the chance to have a beautiful photo taken by an award-winning photographer and the chance of their image... Read more
8th April
Help for Rother businesses reopening after lockdown
BUSINESSES across Rother can apply for financial help to support them to reopen safely as lockdown restrictions are eased. Many businesses will be allowed to reopen from April 12, with more to follow in the coming weeks and, as part of the national Restart Grant Scheme, Rother District Council has received £9.3 million to help... Read more
8th April
Enjoy the coast safely this Easter weekend and stay away from cliff edges
PEOPLE visiting East Sussex’s spectacular coastline are being urged to stay safe this spring and summer. East Sussex County Council is reminding visitors of the serious risks the unstable cliffs pose to those getting too close to the edge or walking at the base of the cliffs, and the dangers to beach walkers who risk... Read more
1st April
This Easter Churches Together produce a virtual Walk of Witness for Good Friday.
This Easter, with many restrictions still in place, the combined churches of Heathfield and District have created a ‘Churches Together in Heathfield Good Friday Walk of Witness’. It is usually held in Heathfield High Street, but it has gone online this year and will be a virtual wander around the local churches. You can enjoy... Read more
30th March
Frogheath’s Hilltop Hideaway scoops Best in Category
Frogheath Landscapes have been awarded a top accolade at the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) Awards 2021, supported by headline sponsor Bradstone. The company was awarded Best in Category in Project Value £65,000-£80,000 for their work on the project Hilltop Hideaway. At a time when we have all come to appreciate outdoor space, anyone lucky... Read more
26th March
Brightling woman launches #HotCroissantBun Easter adventure
Lorne Magill, who grew up locally in Brightling, has created an experience to get people trying something new this Easter. She has produced a step-by-step guide on how to make Hot Croissant Buns and is making it free and available to everyone via the Breakfast Drop website. Lorne noticed that it is very difficult to... Read more
24th March
Good news for Heathfield as broadband provider confirms roll out in town
Full Fibre network operator and ISP Lightning Fibre Limited has confirmed a multi-million pound project to bring its new full fibre network to over 14,000 additional homes and businesses in Heathfield and Hailsham. The company has confirmed that works have already begun in both towns. Work is already underway in Eastbourne and Hastings, and Lightning... Read more
22nd March
Over 50s being Covid 19 vaccinated now, amid concerns as lack of supply may cause a slow down
People in the Heathfield area aged 50+ are able to book their vaccinations via the National NHS Vaccination system. It is very straightforward, you follow the link, input details and you will then be offered vaccination dates and locations. You do not need an invitation from your Doctor’s Surgery. Most people are allocated a vaccination... Read more
18th March
Herstmonceux Castle Gardens and Grounds to re-open late March
Staff at the wonderful Herstmonceux Castle are gearing up to welcome visitors back at the end of March. From Monday 29th March to Wednesday 31st March, admission will be just for season ticket holders plus those named on their pass. No pre-booking required. For both new and returning visitors, the 300 acre Herstmonceux estate with... Read more
16th March
Proctors Chemists in Heathfield are now offering Covid 19 tests
ADULTS in East Sussex who have to leave home for work or caring duties can now book a symptom-free lateral flow Covid-19 test. In Heathfield, both Proctors Chemists on Station Road and on the High St are offering bookable tests. You can find out more information about symptom-free testing and book an appointment at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/communitytesting Anyone... Read more
11th March
New advice for under 55 age range carers seeking to be vaccinated
Informal carers advice on getting a Covid vaccination Currently age 55 and over are being called for vaccination. However, many people who are not 55 and over, but acting as carers, are also keen to get vaccinated. If they are looking after vulnerable relatives or friends and are in receipt of carers allowance they can... Read more
11th March
97 percent of HCC parents consent to testing, headeacher reveals
Heathfield Community College students finally returned this week to teaching on site with nearly all parents (97 percent) giving consent to testing. In other areas of the country, parents have been reluctant or slow to give consent with some worried about the possibility of false results. “After another period of remote learning and national restrictions,... Read more
11th March
Investigation reveals probable cause of Cross in Hand plane crash
The 65 year-old pilot of a small plane that crashed at Cross in Hand airfield in August last year probably suffered from a cardiac arrest shortly after take off an AAIB investigation has revealed. The Rans S6-116 aircraft took off on 4th August from Bradley’s Lawn airstrip in Cross in Hand. Witnesses then saw the... Read more
5th March
Irony as closed school in Broad Oak is advertised as accommodation with ‘no children’ caveat
There was some surprise when it was spotted that the old building that used to house the much loved Broad Oak Primary School was being advertised for accomodation with ‘no children’. A determined battle to save the school had been fought by both parents and the wider community; sadly for the campaigners the council went... Read more
4th March
BUDGET 2021 SUMMARY
The 2021 Budget announcement yesterday aimed to prioritise restoring the economy and to support jobs, individuals and businesses. So, what changed and what does that mean for your financial plans? Here’s a brief overview from Cranwell Wealth Solutions. Given the size of government borrowing and the chancellor’s strong indication that “repairing public finances” and returning... Read more
4th March
Good news for 60+ as Covid vaccine appointments are now open
In recent weeks, many people in Heathfield must must have been wondering what was happening, as reports had come through that 60+ and in some cases slightly younger had been called for a vaccination over a week ago in surrounding areas. In East Sussex those 55 to 60+ have been called in Hastings and Hellingly... Read more
1st March
Sussex maize growers share expertise at e-workshop
Sussex farmers shared their experiences of innovative methods of protecting water quality through farming, at a workshop held by South East Water on 18 February. Three growers from farms in Heathfield, Hailsham and Haywards Heath are taking part in water company-funded trials to understand how growing rows of grass in-between maize crops can prevent soil... Read more
25th February
Rother encourages young people to have their say on the new seven-year plan
PEOPLE in Rother are being reminded of their last chance to have their say on a new seven-year plan for the district. The consultation on Rother District Council’s Corporate Plan, which sets out its aims and objectives for 2020 to 2027, closes on Wednesday, March 17. The new plan, which has been delayed due to... Read more
23rd February
Tackling leaks takes priority says South East Water
Finding and fixing leaks across a vast network of more than 9,000 miles of pipes has taken priority following the cold snap. Freezing conditions, snow and now a slight thaw has caused a number of leaks to break out across the five counties South East Water supplies top quality drinking water to. The water company... Read more
15th February
Local MP appeals to over 70s to book their Covid jab now.
With one week remaining to vaccinate the first four priority groups of residents in Heathfield and surrounding villages, local MP Huw Merriman, has urged residents to ensure they don’t miss out. Calling the vaccination, the ‘gateway’ for the entire area to return to normality, the MP has also hit out at anti-vaccination groups for ‘putting... Read more
10th February
Extra support highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week.
APPRENTICESHIPS in East Sussex will be given a boost this week as the county council supports National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), which runs from February 8 – 14. As well as highlighting the national campaign, East Sussex County Council is officially launching its £600,000 Transform programme this week which supports businesses to access apprenticeships. Why take... Read more
8th February
All you need to know about Covid 19 scam messages
It is sad to say that there are a number of scams in circulation relating to the COVID-19 vaccination programme. The ones circulating in the last few days are produced to look like an official confirmation of a vaccination appointment, it would be easy to mistake this for a genuine communication. See below an example... Read more
28th January
Covid 19 vaccine frustration set to improve for Heathfield
Before Christmas, while many in other areas were getting their call for the vaccine, patients in Heathfield were left wondering when their turn would come. Patients from the High Street and Firs Surgery only started to receive their vaccinations last week. Without a local centre administering the vaccine, the over 80s were forced to make... Read more
26th January
How to manage Covid-19 business debt
UK businesses borrowed five times more from banks between January and August 2020 than in the whole of 2019 (according to EY Item Club1 – a leading UK economic forecasting group). Over that eight-month period, new borrowings (net of repayments) totalled £43.8bn, compared to the £8.8bn of 2019. And it is small businesses who have... Read more
26th January