Community
Now’s the time to return those overdue library books as the annual amnesty is announced
Have you held on to a book just that bit too long and never got around to returning it? Now you can hide your shame and return them penalty free until the end of March. RESIDENTS are being urged to check their homes for overdue books as East Sussex Library Service launches its annual amnesty.... Read more
15th February
National Apprenticeship Week – a good time for students and employers to think about the opportunities
APPRENTICESHIPS in East Sussex will be given a boost this week as East Sussex County Council supports National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 5 to February 11. National Apprenticeship WeekAs well as highlighting the national campaign, the county council is reminding small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) about the support available to assist with... Read more
8th February
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
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
Why men should think about a career in care – we spoke to Sue Fletcher from Oakdown House to find out more
We spoke to Sue Fletcher, Oakdown House – a care home for adults with challenging learning and physical disabilities, about the opportunities for male carers at Oakdown and their sister home Carricks Brook. She is keen to see more men coming into caring as she explained below: “Statistically there are a lot less men working... Read more
1st May
Wealden Works supports students at HCC for an Employability Workshop
On 9th March 2023 the Year 9 students from Heathfield Community College engaged in a number of workshops all centred around Employability Skills: Finance, Business, Oracy and Finance. In Finance students learnt about different salaries for different jobs, discussed what they thought of these salaries and whether they were fair and learnt about the tax... Read more
16th March
Healthy Walks are looking for new leaders so they can grow the Heathfield Group. Can you help?
Health Walks is a successful programme of walking for health benefits both mental & physical and it runs at lots of locations around the county including Heathfield. The group which runs on a Wednesdays is too big to take any new walkers, but they would like to run another one. Lorna Neville, Leader & Organiser,... Read more
2nd February
Don’t forget that Coronation weekend street parties need permission for any road closures
The Coronation of His Majesty The King will take place on the morning of Saturday May 6 and is set to be one of the most significant events of the year. The Coronation ceremony will see His Majesty King Charles III crowned alongside The Queen Consort, followed by a celebration concert held the following day... Read more
2nd February
Heathfield Youth Drama’s Oliver Jr racks up another success!
Last week the aspiring actors from the Heathfield Youth Drama Group put on their Christmas production of Oliver Jr. This classic take on the story of Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, is very much a musical with the key elements of the much loved story incorporated in it. The sell out performance over four nights... Read more
7th December
A peek ‘behind the curtain’ at Wealden Crematorium
Next week there is the opportunity to ‘go behind the curtain’ at Wealden Crematorium. The public will be welcomed with an open day at the Wealden District Council-run facility on Wednesday 5th October between 11am-3pm. Opened in 2019, the crematorium in Horam is set within 30 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds surrounded by wildflower meadows... Read more
28th September
Flaming torches and fireworks marked the start of the Heathfield Jubilee celebrations.
Heathfield Jubilee celebrations 2022 It’s difficult to beat the drama of flaming torches and the lighting of a traditional beacon. Residents of Heathfield were treated to a wonderful Jubilee celebration last Thursday 2 June to mark the start of the Queen’s Jubilee long weekend. Heathfield & District Bonfire Society (HDBS) worked closely with Heathfield &... Read more
8th June
Oakdown House and Carricks Brook raise awareness of Learning Disability Awareness Week.
Every year in June Mencap organise ‘Learning Disability Awareness Week’. The week gives people the chance to find out more about what it means to live with a learning disability. Sadly, people with a learning disability are twice as likely to experience mental health problems due to many factors including discrimination and social isolation. By... Read more
30th May
Heathfield Community College unveils The Chris Gully Memorial
College unveils the Chris Gully Memorial As many people will be aware Chris Gully was a member of the Heathfield Community College for over 22 years and a much respected Head of Science. Many students passed through his classroom, many staff developed their career alongside him, many parents will also know him well, both as... Read more
26th May
Will this new apprenticeship scheme be real help for vulnerable residents?
People of all ages and situations have found the last two years extremely challenging. A time when, just not having a roof over your head was inconceivable, and our quality of life was defined 100% by our home environment. It is encouraging to see a new scheme that might tackle some of these challenges being... Read more
7th October
Lakedown taproom with sublime views opening in Burwash
Tucked away in an idyllic corner of Burwash lies the Lakedown Taproom. Housed in the fisherman’s lodge with views extending over the lakes you will find the perfect spot to enjoy a range of delicious ales from Lakedown Brewing Company, their microbrewery. There is space both indoors and out, and an online booking system to... Read more
24th August
Finding a job that works for parents
Having children is fantastic but sometimes it does feel as though having a family and a career is nearly impossible. The challenge of finding a job that works with being a parent can often seem insurmountable. The great thing about a career in care is that there are hundreds of avenues to follow. And from... Read more
17th August
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
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
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
Joy at new freedoms for local care homes – Oakdown House and Carricks Brook
Everyone, everywhere is talking about ‘the end of lockdown’, this too is the topic of conversation at two local residential homes for adults with learning disabilities. The prospect of freedom and ‘normality’ is exciting but staff and residents of both Oakdown House and Carricks Brook are moving forward with caution, keeping everyone safe is still... Read more
29th 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
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
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
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
Wellbrook Wines FREE prize draw to win £50 wine voucher
Wellbrook Wines is a local wine importer, offering outstanding wines at unbeatable prices. Based in Mayfield, it has a huge range of wines and spirits available, starting at £6.50 a bottle. Wines are imported directly from South America, France and Spain, and there are exceptional new wines sourced from South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Portugal... Read more
24th February
Looking for a job. Have you considered working with vulnerable adults?
One of the ‘A’ Level students enjoying the garden with one of the residents. If you have been impacted during the pandemic by job loss then read on. Oakdown House have gained many new staff over the past year, quite a few have found themselves furloughed or without work, and have decided to give a... 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
Win a Valentine’s Hamper
This year The Flower Workshop in Heathfield is getting involved with a few small businesses in the local area, the aim is to encourage people to support independent businesses. The lucky winner will receive a £75 Romantic Valentine’s bouquet made of the finest roses, a beautiful Handcrafted piece of jewellery from Bryony Bespoke, delicious valentine... Read more
3rd 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
Major incident declared in Sussex to maximise Covid response
In line with several other parts of the country, a MAJOR incident has been declared in Sussex to best respond to unprecedented pressures of Covid-19 on the county. The same decision has been taken by several other local resilience forums in the South East. The Sussex Resilience Forum (SRF) which co-ordinates and communicates between health,... Read more
6th January
New tuition service for Primary School children
Lockdown has had a significant impact across all years of schooling, but no more so than at Primary School level, as young children find it much more difficult to concentrate and struggle with online teaching. According to the BBC news and Ofsted, children are roughly 3 months behind where they should be, with 44% of... Read more
26th November
Burwash based Indie band go global
Wild Horse, a Burwash based Indie band have been getting creative during lockdown. Unable to perform at live gigs, the boys have been going online to bring their music to their fans. In October they played on a Coastal Currents dedicated music showcase; performing their latest album live to an audience of over 10 thousand... Read more
26th November
Covid 19 shuts Cross in Hand Primary School
Parents were shocked to find out this morning that Cross in Hand CEP School was shutting for two weeks after a member of staff tested positive for Covid 19. The school is a popular local primary on the outskirts of Heathfield, East Sussex. It is the first local school to have had to shut completely.... Read more
20th October
Carricks Brook staff help residents enjoy sports day
The pandemic has been challenging for the staff and residents of Carricks Brook, a small, family run care home in Dallington for adults with autism and challenging behaviours. But, the staff have worked hard to successfully adapt daily life to ensure that the residents can still lead happy and fulfilling lives. This summer the residents... Read more
3rd September
Free Rein Horse Rescue and supporters fight back
It’s been a tough time recently for the Burwash based, Free Rein Horse charity, as it fell victim to some unpleasant trolling on social media. Claire Gerrard founder of Free Rein Horse rescue explained : ” Unfortunately we have had some negative comments made about the charity online, we felt this to be misleading and... Read more
21st July
The Wheel and other pubs are reopening this weekend
Pubs and restaurants have suffered more than most businesses. Ordered to shut down with little notice, stock had to be thrown away and beer went bad. Some tried delivery or takeaway services, but it was hard. However, as the 4th of July approaches when pubs can reopen, publicans are cautiously optimistic. We spoke to Sam... Read more
2nd July
Apprentices sought by Frogheath Landscapes
A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join an award winning garden landscaping team based in Burwash Weald, East Sussex (including the Association of Professional Landscapers Supreme Winner in 2013 and again in 2016, RHS Chelsea Gold medal winners in 2014 and 2015 and Gold medal winner at RHS Hampton Court in 2015). The opening is... Read more
22nd June
Call for nominations for community awards supported by Rowland Gorringe
The Heathfield News has got together with local estate agent Rowland Gorringe to launch a quest to find local people or businesses who have gone ‘above and beyond’ to help the community. Even before the pandemic we reported on selfless acts of kindness, undertaken to benefit the community by individuals and groups. We interviewed Terry,... Read more
22nd June
Don’t miss the deadline for £2.6 million of support for Wealden businesses
Wealden businesses that were not eligible for Covid-19 Small Business or Retail Hospitality and Leisure Grants have until Friday 19 June to apply for the Council’s new Discretionary Business Grant. This support is geared towards helping small businesses not eligible for other support because they do not pay business rates. Typical enterprises which can be... Read more
15th June
Heathfield Community College en route to Ofsted ‘outstanding’
Heathfield Community College is feeling optimistic – they have a real sense that making Ofsted ‘outstanding’ is within their grasp. The college was inspected just before the school closures, when parents, pupils and teachers lives were turned upside down. The results were delayed and although Ofsted are not publishing reports on their website until schools... Read more
29th April
New white wines added to Las Bodegas wine delivery service
Las Bodegas have added two delicious whites to their wine list – a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and a Pinot Grigio. Tasting notes below. Click on the button below for the full list of wines and spirits on offer. FREE delivery for all orders of 12 bottles or more. Call 01435 874... Read more
24th April
What to do if you have a dental emergency
During the pandemic, all Dental Surgeries are closed. Dentistry requires a very special sort of PPE, because of the aerosol generating nature of treatment, and there would appear to be a shortage of this type of PPE. But this is of no consolation to anyone wih a dental emergency. The Dental practices we called, were... Read more
23rd April
Award winning wine importer launches delivery service for Heathfield area
Mayfield based, Las Bodegas, is the UK’s leading importer of wines from South America. They also stock an impressive selection of wines from Spain and France. Normally, they supply exclusively to independent wine shops and restaurant trade customers; but the recent crisis, which has seen restaurants closed, has challenged the business to think about a... Read more
15th April
Great offers on South American Wines from £40 for a mixed case of six
You are in for a real treat. Delicious, South American Wines, normally only available to trade customers, but now on offer for local delivery or drive-thru collection. All you need to know, including price lists, is below or call 01435 874 772 or email sales@lasbodegas.co.uk – they are really helpful! Available to over 18s only.... Read more
15th April
“Our amazing, valued workers – making a difference” life at Oakdown House, Adult Care
Sue Fletcher, a member of staff at Oakdown House, contacted us because she wanted to let people know that during this difficult time, carers and support staff are working harder than ever to keep vunerable people safe at places like Oakdown House, a centre for adults with severe learning difficulties in Burwash Common. This is... Read more
14th April
Corona virus causes unavoidable delay in anyone’s plans to buy or sell a property
There doesn’t seem to be a business untouched by the Corona Virus, and the business of buying and selling homes is no exception. For anyone who has already exchanged with a completion date, the sale can go through and the move take place. But for anyone who is not at that stage, the sale is... Read more
25th March
Worried about rural transport? Get in touch with local MP Huw, the newly elected Chair of Transport Select Committee
Last week the Bexhill and Battle MP, Huw Merriman, was elected as Chairman of the Transport Select Committee in the House of Commons in a contest voted on by the 650 MPs across all political parties. With transport and infrastructure being a hot topic at the moment, brought to the forefront in our community with... Read more
5th February
Heathfield’s innovative Science Project improves learning in Primary Schools
Bringing periodic tables alive in school Heathfield Community College has led an innovative research project throughout 2018-19 with eight local primary schools, which has now been recognised to have significantly improved knowledge and outcomes. This project will form part of a national body of research on what works in education. In summer 2018, Heathfield Community... Read more
29th January
