The Wealden Eye Issue 31 by The Wealden Eye

EVENTS I DIRECTORY I SHOPPING I ISSUE 31

HISTORIC HAILSHAM 20 TAKE A BREAK 14 EXPERIENCE HOLIDAYS 38 BOOK REVIEW 43

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COMPLIMENTARY

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015/16

THE

WEALDEN EYE ISSUE 31 CONTENTS Lime Cross Nursery Chapter 12 Events Guide Lils Groom Room Back in Time Hailsham Memorial Institute Hailsham Cricket Club Fidelis Floral Art Take a Break Puzzles The Plough - Upper Dicker Swish Supreme Cleaning Services A Word from Westminster Historic Hailsham The Dental Barn Multi Skills Workshop A Brush With Fate CHIC Pop Up Boutique Winter Recipes Sussex Fireplace Gallery Kamsons Pharmacy The Cottage Experience Holidays Tango & Tapas Whiteman & Son Carpentry Book Review Puzzle Solutions Hellingly RFC Merry Christmas from TWE

4 6 7 8 10 11 12 14 16 17 18 20 23 24 26 29 32 34 36 37 38 40 42 43 44 49 50

THE WEALDEN EYE Hawkland House, Hawkswood Road Hailsham BN27 1UU.....................Tel: 01323 846040 Editor: Charlotte Collinson-O’Toole

charlotte@thewealdeneye.co.uk...............07834785748 Advertising: Jarred O’Toole

jarred@thewealdeneye.co.uk...................07715936394 Artwork & Design: John Kimble Graphic Design

jkimble@btconnect.com .........................01323 848004 We have taken care to ensure that the information in this magazine is correct. The publisher, contributors or the Wealden Eye can not take responsibility for loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions. The Wealden Eye does not endorse the accuracy of the advertisements or the quality of the products/services being advertised. Information provided by businesses and community organisations are provided directly by their own representatives; please direct any queries or comments regarding content directly to the organisation, The Wealden Eye accepts no responsibility for error or omissions. ©2015/16: No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or whole without express permission of the editor.

Welcome to issue 31 of The Wealden Eye… I’m writing this on the evening that the Christmas lights have been officially turned on by Paul Lambert and I must say, doesn’t the town look fantastic? I’ve been made aware that both Hailsham Town Council with their partners Hailsham Forward and Wealden District Council through their streets ahead project are both encouraging festive shop window competitions and so am really looking forward to seeing how our local retailers participate. If you keep an eye on our Facebook page or website we will be posting pictures of all the participating retailer shop windows throughout December. By the time you read the next issue of The Wealden Eye not only will the evenings be getting lighter, but work should have started on the High Street refurbishments funded through the M.A.S.H.H project. Most retailers we have spoken to cannot wait for a more inviting and retail friendly High Street. We understand the works will take approximately 10-12 weeks but the High Street will be open throughout that period. On a personal note, I have recently been made aware of a Facebook page entitled ‘Hailsham Positive’ who’s sole purpose is to promote the happy side of Hailsham and the surrounding area. At The Wealden Eye we think this is great as it is truly aligned with our mission to embrace and promote the town and all that it has to offer. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! As always, thank you for reading, Best wishes, Charlotte X Cover photo: © Marie Stone Photography.

Enjoy me, then pass me on so others can enjoy me and then recycle me! I am 100% recyclable

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Lime Cross Nursery, Herstmonceux

LET OFF A BIT OF CHRISTMAS STEAM! E

xclusive to Lime Cross Nursery, the Christmas rose that really flowers for Christmas! Helleborus niger ‘Verboom Beauty’ is surprising, elegant and chic. This special early blooming variety is bred to flower indoors for up to five weeks and will continue to flower into the New Year. With its mass of buds and attractive flowers this plant creates a beautiful indoor decoration or unique gift. Plant outside after the festive season and it will continue to flower for you! Christmas Trees As specialists in conifers and trees, you can expect only the best in premium quality British grown Christmas trees at Lime Cross; supplying non-needle drop Nordmann varieties along with our own home-grown potted firs, and an unrivalled selection of stunning seasonal plants, wreaths, mistletoe and more, be sure to visit our Christmas shop this month.

Conifères Bijoux®.

Conifers for Life- not just for Christmas Conifères Bijoux® is collaboration between sisters; Helen & Vicky Tate at Lime Cross Nursery and Pépinière des Laurains a conifer nursery based in Champagne, run by sisters Pascal & Marie-Laure Gomblat. The sisters select premium, hand-grafted and propagated dwarf conifers from their respective nurseries and pot them in beautiful handmade

Vicky & Helen Tate showcasing their premiere conifers at Grow London in June. pots that are made by a family run pottery based in Champagne. Bijoux, translating as jewel in French, allude to the fact this is a product intended for adorning your garden/patio/ balcony or courtyard. The conifers are lovingly planted into their pots, fortified with a secret recipe of organic slow release fertiliser, so that they can stay in their pot for at least four years before being re potted-

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Conifères Bijoux® & Hand Cast Iron Statues at Lime Cross Nursery. when this time comespop into Lime Cross for a free re potting service (available only for this product). Conifères Bijoux® creates a bonsai affect without the maintenance element. This is a perfect Christmas gift that comes with its own hessian bag and an optional stain glass support stick. £90 Christmas Shop and Events With a glittering display of Christmas decorations, gifts, cards and gift-wrap, toys, hampers, wine and a whole lot more, you’ll wonder why you haven’t visited before! We’re delighted to invite some of our community friends to join us in December for inspirational events at Lime (left) Nordmann Fir Christmas Tree.

The Lime Cross Alpaca Team. Cross. On Saturday 5th December you’re invited to pop along to watch members of The Hailsham Flower Club who will be demonstrating how you can create stunning table decorations and a centrepiece for your Christmas table! Using foliage and plants from the garden, learn how to arrange them beautifully with flowers and accessories of your choice. Free demonstrations will be taking place throughout the day from 10am. The Downland Singers from Willingdon will be delighting visitors with their carol singing on Saturday 12th December at 2pm. Our ‘Try before you Buy’ Wine Tasting evening is on Thursday 17th December at 7pm, £5 per person with 10% off cases of 6 or more bottles and you’re invited to join us for this fun and informal event. Discover the best wine matches for your Christmas dinner! Sample eight delicious wines including sparkling, white, red and a dessert wine, learn about the production methods

and producers. Join in with slightly unconventional carol singing from members of the Hailsham Young Farmer’s Club this is sure to be an entertaining evening you won’t forget! If you need to escape into your garden to let off a bit of Christmas steam, then head into your potting shed or greenhouse and sow your winter seeds! Broad bean, kale, onions and peas are amongst many you can get in now and at Lime Cross you’ll find a range of Sutton’s seeds to inspire you. Visit our friendly family run garden centre for a warm reception and great ideas for your home and garden.

Visit the Lime Cross Pinetum this Christmas.

Your local garden nursery OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Nursery & Shop 8.30am – 5pm Olives Café 9am – 4pm Visit our website www.limecross.co.uk for seasonal offers and events and to sign up to our mailing list. Follow us on Twitter @Limetate and Instagram @LCNTATE Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/ limecrossnurserypage

Try before you buy wine tasting 17th December at 7pm.

Extensive parking, wheelchair access, children welcome and dogs on leads alsowelcome

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Music File 17

Back in Time JANUARY - PART 1

1976 W

e’ve jumped two decades this time from the fifties into the seventies, with a little opening teaser. Written by Freddie Mercury for their 1975 album “A Night At The Opera”, the six minute single was, to put it mildly, quite revolutionary. Featuring an a cappella introduction, a ballad segment which led into an operatic passage, and an unexpected rock section before closing with a reflective coda, it was, at the time of its release, the most expensive single ever made. It went on to top the UK chart for a

Chubby Checker

staggering nine weeks, and again, upon re-issue in 1991 (following Freddie’s death) for another five weeks, making it the UK’s 3rd top selling single behind Elton John’s “Candle In The Wind” and Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas”. And that’s not all. The accompanying video, shot in a mere four hours, was credited with launching the MTV age. The group decided on a video because at the time of the single’s release the only way the song could be performed on stage was by them miming the lyrics. Due to the complexity of the verses, this would have led to four tongue tied singers looking pretty silly, so was a non-starter. Hah, what am I talking about? Yeh – you’ve got it. Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”. A huge turning point in popular music in both actual construction and length; an adventurous song that has continued to live on through generations as an innovative milestone in our history. And, of course, it’s a great single! Sitting just below Queen was such a diverse sound that almost verged on

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the ridiculous - “The Trail Of The Lonesome Pine” from Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. One can never say that the British taste in music was dull hey? Anyway, this extraordinary song was from the duo’s 1937 film “Way Out West” and its unexpected, yet obviously welcomed, success was down to lovely DJ John Peel who championed it on his evening show on Radio 1. In case you’re wondering (or interested!) the song tells of the singer’s love for his girl named June who – yes, you’ve guessed it - lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I’ll say no more about the song, but would just mention that the bumbling comedy act Laurel and Hardy’s style of slapstick, and their timing of the improbable, was the backdrop to my growing up, and for that I’ll remain grateful. These guys and The Goons – how quirky can one gal get! We’ll continue with 1976 in the next issue, with Chubby Checker and more… Sharon Davis

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Hailsham Memorial Institute

Hailsham Cricket Club

The Premier Local Social Club New Members Always Welcome! g E v e n in e n t m n i a t r E n te g h o u t th r o u a r ! th e y e

Every Monday – Knit And Natter Group 2.00 – 4.00 (Knitting For Charity) Hailsham League darts Cardwell darts Every Tuesday – Indoor Market, 9.00am – 1.00pm Poker league, Harvey darts Every Wednesday – Ladies darts, Super league darts Every Thursday – Bingo 2.00 – 4.00pm Every Friday – Club league darts Every Sunday Lunchtime – Members Card Draw & Meat Raffle Every Sunday Evening – Quiz 8.00pm

• Big Screen Sports from Sky and BT Sport • Afternoon and Evening bingo • Snooker - Darts Poker - Quiz • Hot food available BIG breakfasts on Saturday Contact Information: Western Road, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 3DN Phone: 01323 840459 Twitter - @HMIclub

HMI EVENTS DECEMBER Saturday 5th December Silent Disco & Cocktail Evening

Toad In Hole – Monday’s

Friday 11th December Bumper Christmas Draw

Evening Bingo – Alternate Thursday Evenings 8.00 – 10.00

Saturday 19th December Christmas Family fun day – craft activities – Santa – food – magician Sunday 20th December Christmas Lunchtime Raffle Sunday 20th December Christmas quiz Saturday 27th February Horse Race night

Proba one o bly f th cheap est dr e venue inking s Hailsh in am! Private functions catered for – Weddings, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Baby showers, Retirement parties, wakes, function room available for meetings / training with full facilities Home cooked dishes and hot food available daily. Breakfast freshly cooked to order on Tuesday / Friday / Saturdays £5.00

Find us on Facebook www.hailshammi.co.uk

Darts is played on – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday’s Snooker – Tuesday and Thursday

Junior Cricket at Hailsham Cricket Club

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2016

Is your son or daughter sporty?

Under 10’s County Final.

Do you want them to mix and engage with new friends? If yes then come along to Hailsham Cricket Club winter training

Under 15’s.

Boys and girls aged 5-16, no previous experience required Hailsham Community College Sports Hall

Starts in January

Under 10’s.

For more information on way to join the club either as a playing or non-playing member please contact Rob Wilkinson 07980146841 / wilko27@hotmail.co.uk You can also find Hailsham Cricket Club on social media Facebook – Search Hailsham Cricket Club Twitter – Follow @Hailshamcc Website – www.hailsham.play-cricket.com

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Floristry - FIDELIS FLORAL ART

Flowers say it all… www.fidelisfloralart.co.uk

lowers can be a brilliant way to decorate your home at Christmas. They bring a more natural feel and a great way to help enhance festive decorations, also bringing natural scents to your home. You can also use flowers to add colour to the table on Christmas Day. Carnations come in all sorts of colours making them perfect for Christmas. Reds look fantastic with greenery as well as being a traditional flower, it is also long lasting. Also beautiful white roses or chrysanthemums and hypericum berries can be considered. They looks bright and inviting for a festive table decoration. As well as making lovely decorations, flowers can also be an ideal gift for Christmas, whether a special delivery, or ‘a sorry I can't be there', or a ‘thank you’. Flowers say it all. Fidelis, 3B St. Marys Walk, Hailsham BN27 1AF

Tel: 01323 848899 12

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Take a break... Sudoku How to play Sudoku It s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Quick Crossword

Across 1 4 7 8 9 11 12 14 16 18 20 21 23 24

Wordsearch

_____ Dahl, wrote Matilda (5) Breezy (5) Most furious (8) Streetcar (4) Large passenger aeroplane (8) Lowest female singing voice (4) Horrified, shocked (6) Compel, coerce (6) Perishes, succumbs (4) Complications, obstacles (8) Famous boys' boarding school (4) Italian hard cheese (8) Type of bike (5) Titbit, goody (5)

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 10 13 15 17 19 22

Answers on page 44

Wordsearch - Christmas angel bells boots bow box card

carols chimney eggnog elf family festival

fireplace fruitcake garland gift goose

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Bolting, racing (7) Fourth month, girl's name (5) Female deer (3) Team sport played in a swimming pool (5,4) Popular team sport, mostly played by women (7) Fungus used in bread-making (5) Memo pad (9) Metallic grey poisonous chemical (7) Acrobat, tumbler (7) Bury, place inside a tomb (5) Feudal lord (5) Decompose, deteriorate (3)

holly hope icicle ivy kings

manger Noel party rejoice Rudolph

scarf Scrooge sleigh snow toys

tree winter wonder wreath yule log

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A Word From Westminster

Committees

Nusrat Ghani, Conservative MP for Wealden.

n my last piece for the Wealden Eye, I described what a privilege it is to have a voice in the House of Commons. But the work of an MP in Westminster is not, of course, limited to what they do in the Chamber itself, and during the last few months I’ve been immersing myself in the work of some of Parliament’s committees. On the Home Affairs Select Committee, we’ve been conducting inquiries into changes to the police funding formula, the Government’s approach to extremism, and the investigations into historic child abuse allegations, including the involvement of the Labour

Party’s Deputy Leader, Tom Watson, in the Leon Brittan allegations. Sitting alongside my committee colleagues as we leer across the floor at a poor witness, often hauled in front of us to explain themselves in the full glare of the TV cameras, journalists’ pencils poised in the event of a slip, it can often feel like I’m appearing in an episode of Law & Order. In reality, Select Committees are an invaluable way of asking difficult questions, holding ministers and others to account, and throwing a light on issues that could otherwise stay under the radar.

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Committees are also set up to scrutinise individual pieces of legislation going through Parliament, before they return to the Commons for approval. The two bills I’ve been working on in recent weeks couldn’t have been more different – the Trade Union Bill, a fiercely contested and controversial set of proposals, and the Armed Forces Bill, a non-contentious update of past legislation. Though I am of course on the Government side, this all means that if you’re looking for someone to explain what it means when the Opposition “opposes”, rather than “seeks to improve” legislation, you need look no further…

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paul@paulendersby.co.uk Photographs Hailsham Historical and Natural History Society

Historic Hailsham

The Workhouse – Part 1 W

riting in “Pastoral Visitation” published in 1903, the Rev. H E Savage said,” Visiting a workhouse is apt to be very monotonous and somewhat depressing. There is a subtle influence in pauperdom which seems to eliminate all manliness and independence, and to destroy all enterprise of mind and spirit… work amongst them must not be unlike what the pastoral care of a slave population was before Emancipation, when slaves were destitute of any experience or appreciation of freedom.” The provision of workhouses followed the passing of the 1834 Poor Law Amendment Act which established a national

system of Poor Law Unions, overseen by the Poor Law Commissioners. In Hailsham the Poor Law Union was formed on 10th April 1835 and the new building was erected at the boundary of the parishes of Hailsham and Hellingly, in Union Road, now known as Hawks Road. The building cost £3,960 and accommodated 150 inmates although it was extended later, and by 1867 it could house 300 people. The new building opened in 1836 and was overseen by an elected Board of Guardians, representing its 11 constituent parishes Arlington, Chiddingly, Hailsham, Heathfield, Hellingly, Herstmonceux, Hooe, Laughton, Ninfield, Warbleton, Wartling. Chalvington and Ripe

An early workhouse notice. were added in 1898. The Workhouse was largely selfsufficient with a kitchen garden, kitchens, laundry, delousing oven, an infirmary and a mortuary. Despite the provision of this

Hailsham Workhouse. This appears to be the only photograph of the workhouse in existence.

new workhouse its arrival was not without some controversy and opposition. Many people in the town wanted to retain the smaller local Poor House, Fleur de Lys, for aged and infirm persons, rather than be part of a larger union. As a result Fleur de Lys continued to accommodate people until about 1854. For those who were unable to care for themselves the Workhouse was provided for what Robertson described as, “discipline and help.” They were never prisons, and entry into them was generally voluntary, no one was ‘sent’ to the workhouse, although in reality for many there was no other option. Those entering included people who were too poor, old or ill to support themselves with no family willing or able to provide care for them when they became elderly or sick; those who were simply too poor resulting from a lack of work during periods of high unemployment; the chronic sick; abandoned wives; orphaned children and widowed men and women and their children. Also unmarried pregnant women who were often disowned by their families and the workhouse was the only place they could go during and after the birth of their child. Prior to the establishment of public mental asylums in the mid-nineteenth century (and in some cases even after that), the mentally ill and mentally handicapped poor were often consigned to the workhouse. Entry into the workhouse also

Female residents in the workhouse.

carried with it a change in legal status — until 1918, receipt of poor relief meant a loss of the right to vote. The first book for recording births in the new union began with the entry dated 13 April 1836 when Mary Wright gave birth to an illegitimate baby girl whom she named Harriett. In the first three years of the new union a total of 23 children were born of whom 14 were illegitimate. In 1844 the Poor Law permitted teachers to be appointed in workhouses when basic schooling was made available to children. Prior to this time children were not provided with any effective education. Later children attended Hellingly School.

As children reached school leaving age many were assisted in taking up apprenticeships. Younger children were often boarded out both locally and further afield. As result the Guardians appointed an Officer to visit these boarded out children. The practice of assisting inmates to emigrate was continued by the Guardians. Their fares were paid and they were given a small amount of money on arrival in their new country. An infirmary was provided at the west of the site and enlarged in 1870. A new board-room was erected on the opposite side of Union Road in 1878. This building is still in use as Union Corner Hall. There was always a problem in the new workhouse …continued

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paul@paulendersby.co.uk Photographs Hailsham Historical and Natural History Society

by Paul Endersby

The workhouse board room and coach house in Hawks Road which were built in 1878 and were located opposite the main building.

with drinking water and a new 100 foot well costing £117 was dug in 1881. The pump has been preserved and can be seen outside Southview in Western Road.

The workhouse bell now located in the Hailsham Heritage Museum.

The 1881 census records that there were 119 people resident in the Hailsham Workhouse ranging in age from 3 months to 86 years. Typical of the families in the workhouse was Owen Carter aged 39 and his five children aged between 4 and 11 and James Foord aged 45 and his four children aged between 7

and 13. It is probable that both men had been widowed and were unable to combine work with caring for their young children. There were 38 inmates over the age of 60. There were 36 children under the age of 12. Writing about children in a workhouse, H E Savage remarked that they are, “always living in a mass, without home influences (for good or evil); provided for wholesale; and drilled into uniformity of manner and dress;-they seem to lose their individuality of character, and the attractive freshness and naturalness of ordinary childhood.” There does not appear to be any married couples at this time. If there had been then they would have been placed in separate parts of the building including bedroom accommodation. Through the years attempts were made by the government to alleviate some of the harshness of the workhouse. In 1895 a government circular was issued recommending that Guardians should make surprise visits to the workhouse

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and appoint Committees of Ladies to visit those parts of the workhouse which contained women and children. It also directed that inmates should be classified according to moral character, previous habits etc. It continued, “Guardians may permit married couples to live together, either of whom may be sick or infirm or above the age of sixty years.” It went on to direct that nursing in sick wards should be by paid nurses not by pauper inmates, except in very special circumstances. Children should be in the charge of Officers not

Hailsham workhouse water pump.

pauper inmates and preferably sent to elementary schools and Sunday schools and have the opportunity of mixing with other children. It addressed the question of inmates clothing pointing out that it need not be distinctive and inmates on leave, “should not be dressed in a marked or conspicuous manner.” It concluded, “Guardians it is hoped will fall in with the spirit as well as the letter of this Circular, and there can be little doubt they will be supported by the public.” To be continued…

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Recipes

A taste of Winter!

PANETTONE

EGGNOG

Lovely, light and full of festive flavours: try this Mediterranean Christmas treat.

Serves 12 Prep: 25 mins + rising time Cook: 45 mins Ingredients 1 tablespoon dried active baking yeast 225ml / 7½ fl oz just-warm water 4 tablespoons caster sugar 2 eggs 125ml / 4fl oz low fat natural yoghurt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1/4 teaspoon salt 450g / 1lb plain flour 40g / 1½ oz or a handful currants 40g / 1½ oz or a handful sultanas 1 tablespoon icing sugar melted butter (to brush, optional) Method Combine yeast, water and caster sugar in a medium bowl. Cover and leave to stand for ten minutes, or until foamy. Add eggs, yoghurt, vanilla, lemon zest and salt. Mix well. Stir in flour, a little at a time, until a manageable dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, adding flour as necessary, until the dough is soft and pliable, but not sticky. Place dough in a large, lightly

greased bowl. Cover and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Lightly grease a round 20cm, deep-sided cake tin. In a small bowl, toss dried fruit with icing sugar. Punch down dough in bowl, transfer to floured surface and knead in the fruit. Form the dough into a ball and place in prepared cake tin, cover loosely with a clean

tea towel and leave to rise for another 30 minutes. The loaf will rise above the tin sides and that’s fine. While the dough is rising, pre-heat the oven to 180 C / Gas mark 4. Brush the risen dough with melted butter, if using. Bake for 45 minutes, or until loaf is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool completely before cutting.

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hen I was a little girl I was addicted to old American Christmas films (actually I still am). People always seemed to be drinking eggnog, and it sounded cosy and Christmassy and very American, and though actually I had no idea what it was I longed to drink it too. In fact eggnog traces its roots back to a 14th century England drink called posset. This was a drink of hot milk curdled with ale (bleurgh). Later in history eggs were added. Milk and eggs were expensive commodities in England and so the drink went out of fashion. When the American colonies were formed there was land aplenty for chickens and cows and so it regained popularity over there. The American plantations, sustained by slaves, meant that rum was plentiful too and the drink became alcoholic and was enjoyed by the masses. In spite of its highly questionable history it remains for me the epitome of a festive drink – creamy and sweet; a Christmas cuddle in a glass. Serves 8 Preparation time: 20 minutes plus cooling and chilling time Ingredients 700ml whole milk (I’ve tried it with semi skimmed and it works well too) 240ml double cream 3 cinnamon sticks 1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds removed

1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish 5 yolks, separated 130g granulated sugar 175ml Dark Rum or brandy Cinnamon sticks for garnish Method In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean, vanilla seeds, and nutmeg. Bring slowly to the boil. As soon as it boils remove from the heat and leave to cool so the flavours can infuse. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the egg yolks and

sugar until pale and thick and ribbons form when the whisk is lifted. Strain the milk mixture then slowly whisk it into the egg and sugar mixture and continue to mix until everything is combined and smooth. Add the rum or brandy, and stir. Refrigerate overnight if serving chilled. The argument rages over whether eggnog should be served chilled or warm. Personally I like it warm but chilled is good too. Either way, serve and garnish with whipped cream if desired, grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

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Get to know your pharmacist

New year’s resolutions by Victoria Small Pharmacist Manager at Kamsons Pharmacy, Hawkswood Road, Hailsham

ith all of the rush around Christmas, the thought of New Year’s resolutions may be the last thing on your mind. However when you do sit down over the festive season, why not resolve to make 2016 the year in which you look after your health. If you smoke, or know someone who is a smoker, then call into Kamsons Pharmacy and ask about how we can help you give up for good in 2016. Have you had the flu vaccination yet? You can still, subject to availability, have a flu jab at Kamsons Pharmacy for £10 or free of charge if you are eligible for a free NHS vaccination (eg if over 65) to prevent yourself from suffering from flu this winter. Just call in and ask.

Victoria Small.

Do you know what all of your medicines are for or the best time to take them? If not, call in to Kamsons Pharmacy and ask for your NHSfunded review of how you are taking your medicines. Are all of your family signed up for the NHS electronic prescription service? If not then call in and see us and arrange for your prescriptions to be directly transmitted to us from your doctor. How much exercise are you doing and how much alcohol are you drinking. If you would like advice on a healthier lifestyle for 2016 then please call in and ask us at Kamsons. May we wish all of our readers a joyful Christmas and a very healthy 2016.

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Experience Holidays

KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

outhern Africa, particularly South Africa and Namibia, are incredibly good value at the moment due to the strength of the Pound against the South African Rand and the Namibian Dollar. But this is not the only reason to consider these countries as your next holiday destination. The variety of experiences and interests should be taken in to consideration as well. Whether you love wildlife, sea life, birds, history, geography, geology, scenery, food and wine then this part of the world will oblige you. Taking KwaZulu Natal for example (as I have just come back from my first trip there) the menu of attractions is long. Firstly there is history going back centuries of conflicts between Zulus and Thonga, Zulu and Boers, Zulus and British, British and Boers. Standing on the Isandlwana Battlefield with a descendent of a Zulu chief explaining the ebb and flow of the battle to you and then learning of the desperate battle at Rorke’s Drift, you cannot fail to be moved by the tales from both protagonists. Talk to the Thonga people and learn how the Tsetse fly came to their aid when the Zulu were considering taking their coastal domain. The Tsetse flies are death to cattle, which is/was the wealth of the Zulu. These are just a sample of sites and history of interest that can be found in this region. Hluhluwe National Park is the oldest in South Africa and has been hugely successful in protecting and breeding rhino to the point that there are

around 3,000 white rhino and about 500 black rhino to be found here. Add in the wild dog, lion, elephant leopard and plains animals and a host of birds and you have a park that will keep you watching the plains and bush at all times. For those that like water activities then Isimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly St. Lucia Wetland Park) is for you. With a series of lakes of varying salinity and the beach to the Indian Ocean that is protected, you have plenty of choice of activities - from kayaking on the lakes to diving to see whales, manta rays and all the reef fish you would expect. The beach here is empty of developments and is a favourite for nesting turtles – something that you can see (or the hatching babies) if you go at the right time of the year. A perfect place to relax and we know the best lodges to stay in. Let’s not forget Durban with its beaches and reputation for excellent food, particularly curries. The infra structure is good, making self drive a realistic option and the scenery between locations is constantly changing and, in places, spectacular. But it is the friendliness of the people of the region that makes a trip here special. The lodges, B&Bs and hotels set high standards in service, food and accommodation and the smile you are greeted with is genuine. This is truly a great time to be heading to Southern Africa.

Experience Holidays, 1 Town House Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 2AE T: 01323 446550 E: info@experienceholidays.co.uk

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Book Review

The Hailsham Historical & Natural History Society T

he Hailsham Historical & Natural History Society was founded in 1961 and has produced several books and pamphlets which have illustrated aspects of local history in the town. This year has seen its most ambitious project yet, with the release in October of their new book, “Hailsham Through Time”. Two of their members have put the book together, Richard Goldsmith collected and copied all the old photos and took all of the current views, and Alan Hibbs wrote and edited the captions. The book has 90 black and white photographs ranging from the 1880s to early this century, which are compared with full colour views of the same scene, taken during 2015. Many of these early pictures are from the Society’s own collection, but others came from members and friends, and they provide a really diverse range which mostly has not been published before. For those life-long Hailsham residents, the old scenes bring back longforgotten memories, for others, who may have moved into the area, it shows how the town has changed and developed over the years. Hailsham had its own rope factories, a laundry, a railway line with steam trains, and even a bus station - all now just distant memories. The old

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photographs show a different pace of life, especially views of the Town Centre with little traffic and people strolling across the roads - a vast difference to the trafficclogged streets of today. Many important and historic buildings have been demolished over the years and, as the authors suggest, Hailsham does not have a good record of preserving them. St Mary’s House in Market Square, The Hencoop in Market Street, Ellis’s shop in George Street and the grand houses in North Street, all included in this book, have been demolished. Fortunately there are still some early and historically important buildings left in the Town, and many of these are also featured. “Hailsham Through Time” is published by Amberley Books at £14.99 and is available from book shops in the town. It is also available directly from The Hailsham

For enquiries please call 01323 843206

Historical Society at the launch price of £13.50 and all proceeds will go towards the restoration and protection of the photographs and documents held in their museum in Blackmans Yard, Market Street. The museum is open from May to September on Fridays and Saturdays, 10am to 12.30. The Society also meets every 2nd Wednesday evening of each month, except July & August in the Methodist Church Hall, High Street, at 7.30.

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Take-a-break - Solutions Quick Crossword

Sodoku

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Centra Prime Care

*We are recruiting*

AWARD WINNING HOME CARE PROVIDER

entra Prime Care are now actively looking to recruit in the Hailsham area due the high demand for our award winning home care. At Centra Prime Care our aim is the improve the lives of those we support by providing them with choice, empowerment and control over the service they receive, which includes supporting people with: • Medication • Personal care • Companionship • Socialisation • Managing their home And much more! We are looking for people to join our team who share our

person centred values and want to make a difference to people in our community, particular individuals who are vulnerable or receiving palliative care, so if you have these values, regardless of experience, we want to hear from you. Centra Prime Care currently hold the Gold Rated investors in people standard, this acknowledges our unique approach to developing our staff throughout the organisation and at all levels, with this comes the opportunity for promotions to role such as Key Worker, Senior Carer and Supervisor. We value each and every member of our team and offer:

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• Competitive rates of pay • Mileage • Paid training – Including NVQ’s • Regular supervision and support • Continued professional development Sounds interesting? Want to find out more? If you have a can do attitude, are keen to work flexibly over seven days a week and hold a current driving licence, we’d love to hear from you, we’re a friendly bunch!! Centra Prime Care 13b High Street, Hailsham BN27 1AL Tel: 01323 407010

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Rugby

ARE YOU A TEAM PLAYER? Then come and play for our team

Hellingly Saxons

For more information visit

www.hellinglyrugbyclub.co.uk or find us on Pitchero

ellingly Saxons are the second team of Hellingly seniors and combine a good mix of older players providing the experience and beer money with younger players who provide the flair and loud music. Although a sociable side we do take our rugby seriously and the third half even more seriously! Having been successfully promoted from last season, our competition so far have been stronger and further afield but the team has stepped up to the challenge, with only 1 win away from the top 4 the boys are going well. Fixtures have included matches against Seaford, Ditchling, Heathfield and Newick. Our training has been productive with a good attendance of Saxons. Both senior sides train together under the coaching of Chris Sands which enables Saxons to step up and play first team

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rugby if called upon without having to learn the calls, codes, moves and swear words. Hellingly Saxons rugby continues apace under new skipper Jon Cooley ably assisted by Sam Davies. Several new players joined Saxons and others have returned making a great blend of youth and experience. We are always looking for players of any experience so if you have a pair of shiny new rugby boots you are looking to get some use out of or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re digging around in the dustbin because your other half keeps throwing your old ones away, why not bring them and yourself to a training session. Training starts from 7.30pm Tuesdays and Thursday at the Horsebridge Rec.

For more details call Jon Cooley on 07921811607.

THIS PAGE IS BEING SPONSORED BY THE WEALDEN EYE If you would like your business to sponsor this page or the HRFC itself then contact Jarred07715936394 for more details

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MerryChristmas and

A HappyNewYear As 2015 starts to wrap up the team at The Wealden Eye would like to wish all of our valued clients and of course our loyal readers a very Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. We look forward to a bigger and better 2016.

Testimonials from some of our advertisers TOWN AND COUNTRY TREE SERVICES ‘We love using The Wealden Eye for our local advertising. It has brought a lot of business to my company and look forward to continuing in 2016’ Sam Spiers CALLANDERS RESTURANT ‘We have been a regular feature in The Wealden Eye for some years now and have always had a great response to offers and discounts that have been on the advert’ Killian KEITH LEEVES WOOD STOVE INSTALLATIONS ‘First Class... from the first advert I put in I have had a lot of enquiries and jobs because of it. Will be using The Wealden Eye most definitely in 2016’ Keith Leeves

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