Community
Heathfield loses another bank as Santander announces branch closure.
Santander announced on January 23 this week, that they are making changes to its branch network and plan to close 140 branches in response to changes in how customers are choosing to carry out their banking. The number of transactions carried out via Santander branches has fallen by 23% over the past three years, while... Read more
25th January
Recognition for a man with a passion for Christmas lights
This year’s winner of The Heathfield News Christmas lights competition, is Brian Austin. Nominations were collected on Facebook and Brian’s house in Alexander Road was the one that most people thought the most deserving. We caught up with Brian and his wife, at Trading 4 U when he collected his winner’s voucher from the store.... Read more
22nd January
Heathfield Tavern taken over by award-winning pub group
Heathfield residents have welcomed the news that The Heathfield Tavern has been taken over by Ridley Inns who run two other pubs in East Sussex. Ridley Inns say that The Heathfield Tavern will have elements of both The Highlands Inn in Uckfield and The Cock Inn in Ringmer with an emphasis on great food and... Read more
17th January
Headteacher warns of increasing pressure on school services for students in East Sussex
A recent survey conducted by ‘Worth Less?’ has gained fresh insight into the state of England’s schools and academies since the introduction of the new National Funding Formula (NFF). The organisation represents over 60 Local Authorities and Boroughs with a reach to several million families. The survey of unprecedented size and scope has gained the... Read more
14th January
Countdown to primary school application deadline
If you haven’t yet applied for a place for your child to attend a state primary school this September – don’t worry, it’s not too late. An East Sussex County Council spokesman said: “Parents have until 11.59pm on Tuesday, January 15 to apply for a school place for their child starting in September 2019. While... Read more
13th January
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
Local businesses back a new boxing skills course for young people
Hannah Joy, the Youth Worker at Kings Church Heathfield got in touch with us to let us know about a new fitness activity starting up in Heathfield. Working alongside Charlotte Scott, she has been preparing a Youth Boxing course, which starts on Thursday 10 January at State Hall in Heathfield. The course will focus on fitness... Read more
8th January
Christmas collection for homeless had brilliant response
A Heathfield woman says she has been astounded by the support for her campaign to collect for the area’s homeless. In previous years Sam Keylock has collected items from family and friends but this year she joined forces with her friend Lara Young from Eastbourne. With people offering to help when they saw the appeal,... Read more
2nd 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
Roger Daltrey shows his support for young people at the Wealden Works Awards
Last Tuesday night December 4, over 150 people attended Wealden Works Annual Awards event, at a packed Heathfield Youth Centre, to celebrate local young people’s achievements. The evening began with Councillor Rupert Simmons, Chairman of the Heathfield Partnership Trust welcoming guests, who included Chris Hardy, Chairman of the Wealden District Council, Ambassador – Roger Daltrey,... Read more
10th December
Law firm to take over former Nat West Bank building in Heathfield
Solicitors H & R Hughes have purchased the Nat West building in Heathfield High Street and will see the team relocate from premises near the roundabout. Rod Hughes told The Heathfield News: “Contrary to local rumours we are not planning to open a Weatherspoons or Pizza Express but rather, following refurbishment, we hope it will... Read more
5th December
Hundreds flock to fire station for carols and festive light illumination
Several hundred children, parents and community representatives turned up on Friday for carols, mince pies, mulled wine and the illumination of the town’s lights. The choir was provided by Cross in Hand Primary School whose pupils donned Santa hats while singing traditional carols next to one of the fire engines. Cllr Andy Wooley had the... Read more
2nd December
High street roadworks finish early
Traders and local residents breathed a collective sigh of relief today when the roadworks scheme in Heathfield town centre finished – two days ahead of schedule. Some businesses say they suffered significant losses during the closure and diversions have caused traffic chaos in the surrounding area. Many of the traders joined in The Heathfield News’... Read more
28th November
“Don’t forget about us” an appeal by Heathfield businesses
Three weeks into the closure of Heathfield High Street, the impact on businesses is just being felt. The Heathfield News launched a #shopheathfield campaign and initially the community rallied in support of the traders in the High Street. This was much appreciated explains James from Cuculo: “We felt very well supported by the community and... Read more
23rd November
Heathfield Community College announces Apple Distinguished School Award
Heathfield Community College has worked with iPads integrated into learning for quite a while now. So it is no surprise to hear that the school has been recognised as an Apple Distinguished School for 2018–2021. This is down to its innovative approach to curriculum design – implementing the iPad as a tool to support both... Read more
21st November
Ronit Furst, eyewear with a difference, comes to Heathfield
Heathfield was the first town to be visited by the eye wear designer Ronit Furst, on her recent tour of the UK,when she popped in to see Melina Joy Opticians. They have been stocking the eponymous brand, since it rose to fame, after being worn on TV by GBBO’s Pru Leith. Ronit Furst has a... Read more
15th November
Local boxer Brandon Davies squares up for his first professional fight in London
After graduating from Heathfield Community College in 2015, local lad Brandon Davies had only one thing on his mind. His goal was to make it in the world of professional boxing. Brandon lives in Horam and from the age of 14 he began to develop an interest and aptitude for boxing. Encouraged by his Dad... Read more
14th November
Axell-Eames partners with Young at Heart to sponsor community club place
Do you know an elderly person living in the Heathfield area who might benefit from a free place at an inter-generational community club? Axell-Eames, the local, independent funeral directors has agreed to sponsor a place within the Young at Heart community club for a deserving elderly person to participate for free, once a month, for... Read more
7th November
No end in sight of austerity for the people of East Sussex
Theresa May announced that the end of austerity was” in sight” at the recent Conservative Party Conference on October 3 2018; so Sussex residents may now be wondering what she meant, after the East Sussex County Council leader Cllr Keith Glazier, explained the recent ‘core offer’: “We’d all like to provide more than a core service... Read more
6th November
Heathfield Cadets take part in National World War 1 Battlefield tour
Four Cadets and two instructors from Heathfield have just returned from a fascinating World War 1 Battlefield tour with Cadets from across the country. The cadets made an early start on Friday 26th of October travelling from a camp in Kent that was originally built in 1916 to house troops waiting to go to France.... Read more
31st October
East Sussex charity celebrates over 30 years’ supporting unpaid carers
The Association of Carers, which provides volunteer-led support to unpaid carers throughout East Sussex, hosted a series of parties during October to mark 30 years of the charity helping to make a difference. This included a party at Holy Cross Priory, Heathfield, where volunteers, carers and cared-for people came together to enjoy afternoon tea alongside... Read more
26th October
A revealing trip to the optician
Getting older can throw up lots of challenges, not least keeping on top of eye health, and ensuring good vision for all occasions. As part of The Heathfield News’s new goal to get more hands on with our members, one of the team visited Pople & Broad for a full sight test and eye examination.... Read more
18th October
Heathfield hosts hilly marathon
Sunday 7th October 2018 saw the 6th Annual Sussex Marathon set off from the Community Centre in Heathfield. Described as ‘possibly the hilliest marathon/half marathon on tarmac’ it attracts top runners who want to conquer the hills of Heathfield and surrounding villages. The course doesn’t pull any punches heading down Ghyll Road, Sandy Cross Lane,... Read more
11th October
Mounting concern from local businesses over the closure of Heathfield High Street in November
Local businesses in Heathfield are bracing themselves for challenging times, ahead of the scheduled November closure of the main road through the town. During this time the High Street will become a ‘no through’ road for all traffic, while the road is reconstructed and street lighting replaced, for the whole of the month. The work,... Read more
10th October
Heathfield girl’s singing talent leads to cathedral appointment
The singing talent of a Heathfield girl has earned her the honour of becoming Dean’s Chorister at a school linked with one of the country’s most famous cathedrals. Chorister Annenora Benians was appointed Dean’s Chorister for Salisbury Cathedral’s girls’ choir last Sunday (23 September) in a special Evensong at which new choristers were admitted and... Read more
29th September
HCC Head to take part in London protest Friday 28 September
As reported on BBC TV news last night, this Friday 28 September, the Heathfield Community College , Headteacher, Ms Barlow, will be joining hundreds of other Headteachers from across the country in support of a mass event intended to gain much improved funding for all schools. A recent letter to parents, from Mr Richard Karn, Chair... Read more
27th September
Scouting legend to be honoured with special campfire event
A fitting tribute will take place next month to honour and remember a remarkable Heathfield woman who touched the lives of many people in the commuity. There will be a traditional scout campfire to celebrate the life of Ivy Winifred Elsey, 82, who was Group Scout Leader and Akela in 1st Broad Oak & Punnetts... Read more
10th September
Young Heathfield artists urged to take advantage of grants
Help is at hand for budding young local artists who could benefit from grants to access courses. The Arts Society is a leading arts charity working to advance decorative and fine arts education and appreciation. It also promotes the preservation of artistic heritage by bringing together groups of like-minded individuals through regular talks, study days, visits,... Read more
6th September
Unity Community Garden – about more than vegetables!
For the second in our series on Hidden Gems, we visited the Unity Community Garden. This oasis of calm is hidden away at the bottom of Leeves Close in Heathfield. The garden, which was started 12 years ago, is essentially a mini allotment for the residents of Leeves Way, Leeves Close, Newnham Way and Waldron... Read more
3rd September
Key things to consider when organising a funeral
For many, planning a funeral is a process defined by chaos, feelings of disorganisation and overwhelming emotion – for others it serves as a focus that can delay the acceptance of loss. No one wants to have to arrange a funeral at what is already a difficult time. But if you do, having an understanding... Read more
30th August
Advice for those picking up GCSE results this Thursday
The climax to years of hard work and high expectations for the GCSE students of Heathfield Community College is almost here. As GCSE results day looms large teenagers are poised to finally find out if it was all worth it. Results day is often full of emotions, from elation to disappointment, for parents, teachers... Read more
20th August
Increase in top grades for A Level students at Heathfield Community College
This week has been a time of highs and lows for all of those across the country who were eagerly awaiting their A Level results. But it was great to see that students at Heathfield Community College have improved further on last year’s high, achieving and high attaining outcomes at A level, embedding a consistent... Read more
18th August
A great FREE day out at Le Marche, Heathfield this Bank Holiday Weekend
Heathfield’s famous Anglo/French LE MARCHÉ is taking place on August 27 Bank Holiday Monday – as it has done for the past 21 years. It is the longest running Anglo/French market in the whole of the South East. It runs all day from 09.30 to 15.30 This fantastic all day event draws visitors into the... Read more
18th August
Sarah’s focus on getting even better pays off
A Heathfield photographer has proved once again that she is at the top of her game by winning a string of awards in a prestigious industry competition. Sarah Tate, who has a studio in Hailsham Road, scooped four prizes at the Masters Photographers Association SE Region awards. These included: first place in the Maternity category;... Read more
13th August
What next? If you don’t get the A Level results you hoped for
Heathfield Community College A level students will get their results next week. For some it will be a dream come true and a clear path to their university of choice, for others it will take a bit more time and perseverance. We spoke to Ruth Sparkes, Editor of teen magazine Future Mag, for some advice... Read more
10th August
TWO MEN AND A TUDOR MAP by Patrick Fletcher and Allan Mackenzie
We first met to discuss old maps acquired from the East Sussex Record Office. Allan was interested in the oldest, dating from 1595. It showed a line around the Heathfield and Burwash Downs, common land situated between Burwash and Heathfield. There were houses with the names of people who lived in them just outside the... Read more
9th August
Warm weather is boosting house sales says local agent
The warm weather is good for property sales – that’s the verdict of estate agents and chartered surveyors Samuel and Son. The company, which has offices in Heathfield and Horam, says it has seen a significant increase in people wanting to view properties since the sunny spell began. Director Andrew Samuel said: “Traditionally things start... Read more
6th August
Local athletes to raise the bar for Air Ambulance
Back for its fourth year, Pick It Up Put It Down is set to once again bring tough workouts and live music to Cross in Hand to raise money for the Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance Trust (KSS Air Ambulance). Saturday the 11th August sees Heathfield and Waldron Rugby Club re-open the doors to the... Read more
24th July
Heathfield students honoured at awards ceremony
On Thursday 12 July, Heathfield Community College held its annual Honours Evening in the Sports Hall at the Heathfield Leisure Centre. The evening was a celebration of student success with selected students from Years 7 through to Sixth Form presented with awards for effort, progress and excellence in particular subject areas.On arrival, students and their... Read more
20th July
Keep your kids busy with Summer Clubs and Activities
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
18th July
Show organisers present donations in return for help
Twenty one local charities and organisations have received a share of the £17,000 raised from the Heathfield Agricultural Show this year as a thank you for helping at the event. They include: 4×4 Assist; Broad Oak Primary School PTA; Broad Oak & Punnets Town Scouts & Football club; Burwash Scouts; East Hoathly & Halland Carnival... Read more
17th July
Win a Willow & Wild nature box for kids
Willow & Wild Box is a monthly subscription box aimed at children, 3 to 8 years of age, packed with a variety of nature-related activities focusing on gardening, craft, cooking and creating. As well as green-fingered activities, different table-top crafts are included every month, as well as an activity booklet and recipe cards for children... Read more
12th July
Golfing day raises over £1,000 for Heathfield & Waldron Responders
Responders are volunteer members of the community, trained by the Ambulance Service, to respond to emergency calls through the 999 system, in conjunction with the Ambulance Service. They provide immediate care to patients in their area and are mobilised to 999 calls by Ambulance Control. Responders are a part of, and live in, their local... Read more
10th July
Willow + Wild Box founder aims to help parents get creative with kids
A Heathfield entrepreneur has launched a children’s monthly subscription box inspired by nature and the great outdoors. The monthly subscription box is aimed at children aged 3 to 8 years of age and is packed with a variety of nature-related activities focusing on gardening, craft, cooking and creating. Designed with busy parents and Grandparents in... Read more
6th July
10% Early Bird Discount on South Coast Tennis Camps
South Coast Tennis are offering 10% off for all Tennis & Multisports Summer Camps booked before 10th of July 2018. Go online and register to book using the code summer10. South Coast Summer Holiday tennis and Multisports Camps run from July 23 until 24th of August at Cross in Hand. Suitable for children aged 5-16.... Read more
3rd July
Get your kids on the road to Wimbledon with tennis camps this Summer
We are lucky in Heathfield to be able to easily enjoy the tennis tournament nearby at Eastbourne. Sadly Wimbledon is that bit further, and much more difficult to get tickets for, so most children will only be able to enjoy the TV coverage. But, if this has fired them up with enthusiasm for the sport... Read more
2nd July
Recent barn fire highlights risk to the countryside in dry weather
The East Sussex Fire Brigade report that every year in the UK, 1,700 farm buildings and 66,000 acres of grassland are destroyed by fire. The hot, dry weather has resulted in parched areas on verges, in fields and woods leading to a serious increase in the risk of fires starting in the Heathfield area. Now, is... Read more
25th June
Heathfield boy hopes to play for England
A Heathfield teenager is on his way to fulfilling a dream of playing table tennis for England. Fraser Kent, age 15, from Punnetts Town, started playing at Broad Oak Table Tennis Club aged just eight. Nicky, his Mother who represented Devon at table tennis in her youth, took him along to a training session and... Read more
25th June
Heathfield school recognised nationally for achievements
Heathfield Community College is celebrating after winning four categories of the Educational Outcomes Awards 2018. Held in London, The Educational Outcomes Awards is a regional event that is held annually to draw attention to the work of high-achieving, improving and innovating schools and teachers. Heathfield Community College won the SSAT Educational Outcomes Award 2017 for... Read more
21st June
Want to cut down on plastic? Here’s how.
There is much publicity given over at the moment to the massive problem of plastic pollution on land and in our oceans and waterways; so many people are trying to cut down their use of plastic. Here is a great way for Heathfield residents to start reducing their use of plastics. Heathfield Wholefoods Health Store... Read more
13th June
