Friday-Ad Finds Christmas 2023

Your local magazine for the sussex area

December 2023

5 Quick and Easy Festive

Desserts Make your festive gathering that little bit sweeter

Are You Ready For THE

Big Day? Follow our Christmas Eve Checklist, built to ensure you enjoy a stress-free and merry Christmas Day with your loved ones!

Want To

WIN

Christmas On Us?

Win your tree, decorations, turkey and a festive hamper, on us - in our latest competition!

Discover local businesses that are here to make your festivities merry and bright!

Welcome!

Just like that, the festive charm of Christmas is surrounding Sussex once again!

The spirit of the festive season isn’t just nestled within the glittering lights and decorated shop fronts, but is most deeply woven into the local businesses and communities that power the city with their sense of unique holiday magic and fun.

Sussex transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, with local residents and businesses coming together to organise festive events, carol singing, and charitable initiatives, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike. The streets echo with laughter and joy, as families and friends gather to celebrate the season with a shared spirit of togetherness.

Discover quaint boutiques, artisanal Christmas markets, exquisite restaurants and more, with each shop window telling a story of creativity and dedication, as merchants showcase their festive offerings, from unique handmade gifts to locally produced foodstuffs. So, as Christmas lights twinkle along Sussex's historic streets and the sound of music fills the air, remember that it's not just the decorations that illuminate the season. It's the collaborative effort of the local businesses and the warmth of the community that truly make Christmas in Sussex a magical and memorable experience for all.

Read on to discover the local businesses that wish to make your festive season bigger and brighter than ever, try our quick and easy festive desserts destined to put a smile on the faces of your loved ones, and consider using our Christmas countdown checklist to enjoy a stress-free and merry Christmas Day with your loved ones.

And don’t forget to enter our HUGE Christmas competition, offering you the chance to WIN your Christmas on us, including a hamper and decorations from UpCountry Garden & Country Store, a 12lb Family Turkey from Wickenden Meats, AND a real Christmas tree from Sussex Christmas Trees!

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01580 241344

www.holepark.com

Benenden Rd, Rolvenden, Kent, TN17 4JA

Celebrating 70 years as a family-run Driving School, covering training in all lorry categories, Mini Bus, Coach, Lorry Mounted Crane, Fork Lift Truck, Car & Trailer Familiarisation. We also offer experience drives and gift vouchers for all categories.

01273 890410

www.hillsdrivertraining.com

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www.realpatisserie.co.uk

Have yourself a merry Real Christmas!

Hosting Christmas? Thrill taste buds with a Real Patisserie selection.

Christmas logs, party food, mince pies, chocolate truffles and much much more.

Order online, call our shops, or pick up a leaflet in-store.

Don't miss out: order deadline is 21st December

TURKEY PLUCKING - ALL BRONZE BIRDS!

Located in Appledore, no experience necessary, starting Monday 27th Nov (Registration Day 23rd Nov).

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Reserve your job: work@appledoreturkeys.co.uk 07387 390 555

appledoreturkeys.co.uk

APPLEDORE, TN26 2DR

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5

Quick and Easy Festive Desserts To Put The Icing On Your Christmas!

Gingerbread Cookies

Make gingerbread people, houses, or other holidaythemed shapes.

These cookies are a classic holiday favourite and are perfect for decorating with royal icing to create festive and delicious treats.

Ingredients (For the Gingerbread Cookies) 3 cups all-purpose flou

3 cups all-purpose flou

1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginge

1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginge

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamo

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamo

1/4 teaspoon ground clove

1/4 teaspoon ground clove

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions For the Gingerbread Cookies In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and baking soda. Set aside In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms. The dough may be a bit sticky, so you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to make it easier to work with Preheat your oven to 175°C Roll out the gingerbread cookie dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, typically about 1/4 inch thick. You can use cookie cutters to create gingerbread people, houses, or other holiday-themed shapes Place the cutout cookies on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just starting to brown.

The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cookies and your oven, so keep an eye on them Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredients (For the Royal Icing) 2 large egg white 3 cups powdered suga 1/2 teaspoon cream of tarta Gel food colouring (optional)

Instructions For the Royal Icing (for decorating) In a clean, dry mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Whisk until frothy Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to whisk until the icing forms stiff, glossy peaks. If you want to add food colouring, do so at this stage Transfer the royal icing to a piping bag or small zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Use it to decorate your cooled gingerbread cookies as desired Allow the icing to set and harden before serving or storing the decorated cookies Once the icing has set, your gingerbread cookies are ready to be enjoyed.

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Snowball Cookies Buttery and nutty cookies covered in powdered sugar

These buttery and nutty Snowball Cookies are a delightful holiday treat.

They’re perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as part of your Christmas cookie platter.

Ingredients 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softene 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coatin 2 teaspoons vanilla extrac 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flou 1/4 teaspoon sal 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the butter. Continue to beat the mixture until it’s well combined and slightly fluffy In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. It may seem crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a cohesive dough Stir in the chopped nuts. You can use either pecans or walnuts, depending on your preference Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and just starting to turn golden around the edges Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat generously. This will give them the signature “snowball” appearance Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar again for a second coating. This second coating adds to the snowy appearance and sweetness.

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Peppermint Bark

A delightful treat made with layers of white and dark chocolate, topped with crushed candy canes.

Peppermint Bark is a perfect treat to enjoy during the holiday season or give as a homemade gift. The combination of dark and white chocolate, along with the refreshing peppermint flavour, makes it a festive and delicious treat.

Ingredients

12 ounces (about 2 cups) of dark chocolate chips or dark chocolate melting wafer 12 ounces (about 2 cups) of white chocolate chips or white chocolate melting wafer 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for extra flavour 3 candy canes, crushed (about 1/4 cup)

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal Melt the dark chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted.

If using a double boiler, stir the chocolate over simmering water until smooth If desired, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the dark chocolate for a hint of minty flavour Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet or pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly into a thin layer, about 1/4 inch thick Place the pan in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15-20 minutes or until the dark chocolate has set While the dark chocolate is setting, melt the white chocolate using the same method as you did for the dark chocolate. You can add peppermint extract to the white chocolate too if desired Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the white chocolate while it’s still wet. Gently press the candy cane pieces into the white chocolate Place the pan back in the refrigerator or freezer and let the peppermint bark set for about 30-45 minutes, or until it’s completely firm Once set, lift the peppermint bark out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place it on a cutting board Use a sharp knife to cut the bark into pieces or break it into irregular shards.

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Meringue Snowflakes Light and crisp meringue cookies shaped like snowflakes.

These delicate and beautiful Meringue Snowflakes make a delightful and festive treat during the holiday season.

They are perfect for decorating dessert tables or for gifting to loved ones.

Ingredients

3 large egg whites, at room temperatur 3/4 cup granulated suga 1/4 teaspoon cream of tarta 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extrac Blue food coloring (optional Edible silver or white decorating pearls (optional)

Preheat your oven to 90°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Soft peaks are achieved when you lift the beaters, and the peaks curl over gently Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until the sugar is fully incorporated, and the meringue forms stiff and glossy peaks. This may take several minutes. (Pro tip: Add the pure vanilla extract and a few drops of blue food colouring to achieve the desired shade of blue for the snowflakes. Mix until the colour is evenly distributed.

Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped piping tip. You can also use a plain round tip or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off Pipe snowflake shapes onto the prepared baking sheet. Start with a small circle in the centre and then pipe six or eight lines radiating outward to create the snowflake pattern. You can make them as large or small as you like. (Pro Tip: If desired, gently press edible silver or white decorating pearls into the meringue snowflakes to add a decorative touch.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringue snowflakes are completely dry and easily lift off the parchment paper Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open slightly, and leave the meringues to cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This helps prevent them from cracking Once the meringue snowflakes are completely cooled and firm, carefully peel them off the parchment paper.

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Candy Cane Brownies Fudgy brownies with a peppermint twist, topped with crushed candy canes.

Ingredients (For the Brownies) 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butte 1 cup granulated suga 2 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powde 1/2 cup allpurpose flou 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions For the Brownies

Ingredients (For the Peppermint Topping) 1 cup powdered suga 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softene 2 tablespoons milk

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extrac 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions For the Peppermint Topping

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Grease and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal

In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted Stir in the granulated sugar until well combined Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and mix until smooth In a separate bowl, sift the cocoa powder to remove any lumps Gradually add the sifted cocoa powder, flour, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth brownie batter Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.

While the brownies are baking, prepare the peppermint topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth and well combined Once the brownies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes While the brownies are still warm, spread the peppermint topping over the surface, creating an even layer Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the peppermint layer while it’s still soft, pressing them gently into the topping Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, and then place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the peppermint topping Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and onto a cutting board Cut the brownies into squares or rectangles.

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TOP #3

RESTURANTS in East Sussex

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About Us

Chef Patron Kerim and Executive Chef Pinar have teamed up to open one of the most exciting restaurants in Hastings.

Our speciality is delicious cuisine created with the ingenuity and passion inspired by the fantastic flavours of the Mediterranean itself.

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Yaaze Cafe Bistro & Meze Bar Book a Table

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www.yaazehastings.com

15 Denmark Place, Hastings, TN34 1PF

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Christmas Hamper 2023 THIS YEAR’S CHRISTMAS HAMPER DEALS

AT LAST YEAR’S PRICES!

ORDER NOW!

Quote “Friday-Ad” and get 1kg of Rump steak added to your order!

01273 683338

24 London Road, Brighton, BN1 4JB

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Blueprint Steel Ltd is one of the most reliable steel suppliers in Hailsham, also serving clients across the Sussex area.

01737 762496 www.blueprintsteel.co.uk

Blueprint Steel, 2 Ashley Gardens, Amberstone, Hailsham, BN27 1NQ

Redhill Tyres

All types of part worn German tyres (10" & 18") and alloy rims. 1000s of German tyres in stock now - all top brands. MoT and servicing also available.

01737 762496

Northside Goods Yard, Redhill, Surrey

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ROB’S LOGS Dry & seasoned hardwood logs:

3 Bulk bags for £250, 2 Bulk bags for £180,

1 Bulk bag for £95, 3 nets of kindling for £16.

07976 725502

57a Marlborough Drive, Burgess Hill, RH15 0ET

Come and join our fun, crazy annual Santa's on the Seafront 5k run in Worthing.

Prizes for the 1st and 2nd male and female, plus a prize for the best dressed Santa/elf.

Click here to register >

Christmas Trees for SALE Massive selection - all opened and displayed.

Netting service and free delivery. Choose your tree and we'll net it for you. Stands are also available.

01323 301286 / 07969 110459

2ft - 12ft

Larger available on request 1A Church St, Old Town, Eastbourne, BN21 1HN

Progress laundrette provides high quality washing machines and dryers in Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill. Coin-operated, with card facilities on some machines. Large machines for extra large loads, such as kingsize duvets. Open 7 days a week, 8:30am to 8:30pm.

01444 461 003 www.progresslaunderette.co.uk

13 Leylands Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 0QF /

1 Commercial Square, Haywards Heath, RH16 1DW

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Our Christmas Eve Checklist The festive season is upon us, and before you know it, it’s going to be Christmas Eve. As we all know, no family gathering is complete without some last-minute panic and chaos, and keeping up with festive traditions, both well-known and unique, is no mean feat. But, to avoid the last-minute rush, make sure you check all the boxes on your Christmas Eve checklist. We have compiled a list of our favourite traditions that we hope you will consider adding to your checklist to enjoy a stress-free and merry Christmas Day with your loved ones.

Are traditions important?

We absolutely love traditions, especially when it comes to the Christmas period. They give us meaning and identity, and they nurture our sense of togetherness and belonging, but keeping up with widespread traditions, as well as the ones that we create, can be a little overwhelming. With so many choices of which traditions to follow, it can be incredibly easy to let something slip through the cracks at a time of year when time simply will not stand still.

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Christmas gifts One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking about Christmas day is all the gifts. Christmas shopping is what dominates the festive season. With just a few nifty tips, we can mitigate the majority of the seasonal stress that is associated with Christmas gifts and fulfil your gift list!

Get organised Our first tip when it comes to planning the shopping is simple, but trust us it’s important.

Making a Christmas gift list (including wrapping paper and Christmas decorations) of who you have to buy for and any ideas you have about what to get will help to organise your thoughts and make keeping track of how much there is still to do much easier.

Set a Budget A budget is one of the most useful tools when it comes to buying gifts. While we would all love to see money as no object, the reality is that we all have financial commitments, and budgeting really helps to protect our wallets from the holiday season.

Just do it!

While one of the best ways to soak up the Christmas cheer is by getting out and exploring a Christmas market or frequenting your favourite shops, it can quickly become a huge source of stress when faced with long queues and crowded shopping centres. Our advice? Shop online! Not only will you avoid much of the stress of busy shops, but you can compare prices and find deals without leaving your sofa. By all means, go out and soak up the atmosphere along with a hot chocolate, but make sure you take advantage of the convenience.

Now before everyone firmly seats themselves on the sofa with a laptop and orders their presents from the farthest corners of the globe, please remember that sourcing as much as Friday-Ad is Local. Friday-Ad is Sussex!

possible from local independent shops is by far the most sustainable way of sourcing your gifts, with online shopping best reserved as a contingency for when we aren’t able to source our gifts in person.

Wrapping gifts The final part of the gift shopping process. When preparing to wrap gifts for your friends and family, make sure you have the correct wrapping paper so that wrapping gifts can become less of a chore and more of an artistic endeavour. The satisfaction that can be experienced by placing well-wrapped gifts for your friends and family under the tree on Christmas Eve, is one of the best parts of the Christmas season.

Be the early bird We know it’s easy to delay holiday shopping until the last minute, but it’s a surefire way of making it feel as though the sky is falling. Starting your shopping as early as possible is possibly the best tip we can give. There are ways of getting through your Christmas shopping without adhering to the other tips on this list, but this is the hill that we will die on.

Be the early bird.

Christmas dinner Yes, we know it can be a particularly overwhelming part of hosting Christmas, organising a festive feast that’ll impress your family and friends. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some tips that’ll make your life easier.

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Planning Planning a Christmas dinner can be a lot of work, especially when you are serving a lot of people with differing dietary requirements. This is why it’s essential to start planning early. Create a list of the dishes you want to serve, and make sure to include some options for those who are vegan, gluten-free, or have any other dietary requirements, and make sure to keep your kitchen’s capabilities in mind too. Once you’ve got your menu sorted, you need to think about ingredients and how you’ll be sourcing them.

When this has been completed, it is worth keeping your schedule in mind. Consider making some of the dishes ahead of time, like the Christmas cake, and freezing them to save time on the day.

Delegating There will be a lot to do, and not a lot of time to do it in. Do yourself a huge favour by assigning tasks to your family members and friends to help lighten the load. Ask someone to bring a dessert or a side dish, or to help with the table setting. This is not only a great way to take some of the work off your plate (pun intended), but it’s also an excellent opportunity to bond and spend time with your loved ones.

entertainment When it comes to Christmas entertainment, there’s something for everyone, from classic Christmas movies to hilarious Christmas games, entertainment is where we bring the “merry”. So grab a cup of cocoa, put on your comfiest Christmas sweater, and get ready for some jolly good times.

Films With the selection of Christmas films growing every year, we truly are spoiled for choice. Whether you’re watching Elf for the hundredth time, or trying something new, Christmas films are one of the cosiest ways to bring the family together for a good dose of festive film fun.

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Games Playing games at Christmas can be some of the earliest memories that we remember as well as a failsafe way of getting the Christmas party started. They can bring each member of the family together and give everyone a chance to get to know each other in a fun way that we don’t have the opportunity for during the rest of the year. Charades, Heads Up, Articulate, etc. The list is endless, with each family and each individual person having their favourites (and least favourites!) that no doubt will make an appearance each year.

Christmas decorations As the holiday cheer bubbles within us, we all love to spruce up our homes to welcome in the festivities. However, for some, this can be a daunting task.

Christmas Tree The most iconic piece of Christmas decoration is the Christmas tree. Real or faux. Big or small. Finding and decorating the tree at Christmas is something that everyone, old or young, can be involved with. Our two simple rules for tree decoration are as follows: spacing is key, and don’t forget to top off your Christmas tree with an angel.

Lights Next up, the Christmas lights. Fairy lights are a must-have for any festive home. Whether you string them around your tree, on your windowsill, or over your fireplace, they bring a warm and cosy glow to the room. Using Christmas lights also comes with the oh-sopredictable task of untangling! It’s all part of the dance, so just make a cup of tea, put on your favourite Christmas album, and get to work!

Wreath And finally, no Christmas decoration guide would be complete without mentioning the exterior of your home. A festive wreath on the door is a perfect way to greet your guests, and some lights around your windows add a touch of magic to your street.

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milk and cookies Have you ever wondered where this tradition comes from? The origin can be traced back to Norse mythology, where children would leave out treats for Odin’s eight-legged horse Sleipner. The legend goes that Odin would fly through the sky on his horse on the winter solstice, visiting households and leaving gifts in return for the treats left for Sleipner. Over time, as Christianity spread throughout Europe, Odin evolved into Santa Claus, and the tradition of leaving treats for his horse evolved into leaving cookies and milk for him and his reindeer.

Although the association with cookies and milk is most commonly associated with the US, other countries have their own versions of this tradition.

For example, in Australia and the UK, mince pies and sherry are the traditional treats left out for Father Christmas. In Sweden, rice pudding is the go-to snack, while in Ireland, Guinness and cookies are the preferred offerings. In France, food for donkeys such as carrots and hay is left out, and wine serves as the beverage of choice. In Germany, children write letters to Christkind (the Christmas spirit), while in Spain, families beat a wooden log called Tio de Neldal until it “defecates” small gifts for children. Lastly, Italy has a “present witch” known as La Befana, who gets treats of sweets and wine.

Other than a means to please Father Christmas, it’s also a way for families to create cherished Christmas baking memories and carry on time-honoured traditions while serving as a reminder of the spirit of giving and caring for others during the holiday season.

In conclusion, Christmas traditions and spending time with family aren’t just cliches; they’re essential. It’s a time to bond, honour tradition, learn, and celebrate. So, while there are a lot of things that need to be done to prepare for Christmas, especially when hosting Christmas Day, please make sure to take the time to be with your loved ones this holiday season. Having an organised Christmas Eve checklist, and preparing for Christmas early, will help to achieve this, you shouldn’t let these things get in the way of enjoying this yearly treat, as it’s not the gifts or the decorations that matter, but the memories that you create with those you hold dear. Mulled wine can also help.

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Give back this Christmas The Yuletide season is nearly upon us and, in the spirit of Christmas, this year we’re taking a special look at how we can give back to those who need it the most.

For many of us, Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ, and how he came to us to bring love, hope and joy. While many share this belief, I think we can all agree that Christmas transcends religious belief and has become a firm fixture of most people’s winter and a general high point of the year.

Whether or not you are religious, Christmas has become known as a time to spread goodwill to all and gives us an opportunity to pause and give thanks for what we have.

Hopefully, it can be a time of year when everyone can feel love and compassion, and know that we are not alone during, what can be for many, the darkest and toughest time of the year.

health benefits of giving Are there any physical benefits of giving?

Christmas has been shown to have many benefits, not only to our moods (or our kids!), but also to our health; singing, spending time with loved ones, catching up on sleep, and indulging in family traditions all have significant benefits for our physical and mental health.

It has also been shown that the fun and thoughtfulness that come with playing games and giving gifts can substantially improve our mental health and general well-being.

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There have been many studies that underline the importance of giving and how it corresponds with improvements in our physical and mental health, as well as promoting positive values and giving everyone involved a good dose of gratitude.

It has been shown that those who live more altruistic lives through volunteering generally experience fewer aches and pains and, through the act of repeated giving, can increase their longevity more so than those who exercise regularly.

How does giving improve your mental health?

Mentally, the benefits can be immediately felt while also helping to contribute to our long-term health. Giving can make us feel positive, increase our confidence and selfworth, help prevent mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as the simple fact that giving makes us happy.

Especially around Christmas, we can fall foul of forgetting how great giving can be. When it comes to gifts, it is easy to focus on the pressures that arise from finding and buying gifts for our friends and family. This can be very stressful, but we can rest assured in the knowledge that the real gift we give each other is knowing that we are in each other’s hearts and minds.

Being able to share gratitude for being in each other’s lives is truly what makes this season so special. From small gestures to bigger shows of gratitude, giving increases our happiness and helps us to grow as people.

what can you do?

In Sussex, we are blessed with many ways that we can spread kindness and support those who are struggling through this cost of living crisis. With many being unable to afford both heating and food, the need for those of us who are able to help by stepping up is greater than ever. We have been looking into ways in which we can make sure that the more vulnerable members of our society can still experience the joys of Christmas.

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Christmas Cheer Project Fresh Start Community Association’s Christmas Cheer Project aims to provide food and presents to families within Brighton & Hove. Through donations in 2022, the Christmas Cheer Project was able to provide 30 families with fresh ingredients for Christmas dinner.

They also provided 66 large boxes of gifts, and 42 bags of food to 60 homes, with 244 individuals impacted by the generosity of others. Hopefully, they will be able to build off the success they had last year and spread the Christmas joy even further this winter.

For more info on the Christmas Cheer Project, visit the Fresh Start Community Association website: www.freshstartbrighton.org.uk/christmas-cheer.html

Be A Secret Santa For Local Children Another charity that focuses on supporting families at Christmas, Pelican Parcels was able to provide presents for 1,100 children and pregnant mothers in Brighton & Hove last Christmas and is looking to continue the good work after an even tougher year.

Looking for donations of gifts and money valued between £5 – £20, Pelican Parcels also supports our community by partnering with local toy shops, Whirligig, Timeless Toys, and Meg & Milo, with each shop participating with either offers or contributions of their own.

For more info on how to Be a Secret Santa For Local Children, please visit the Pelican Parcels website: www.pelicanparcels.org.uk/christmas-2022/

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Christmas Cards The long-running tradition of sending Christmas cards to loved ones is still a firm fixture of many people’s festive season.

Despite there being a shift towards personalised Christmas cards purchased online, many people are turning back the clocks and sending out traditional, physical Christmas cards again.

If this is on your Christmas checklist, then we would recommend taking a look at both Chestnut Tree House and Friends of Sussex Hospices. Chestnut Tree House features a wide range of cards to choose from, with cards ranging from animalbased designs for your furry friends (never forget the pets!) to those of a more traditional festive theme. Friends of Sussex Hospices don’t have quite as large a range but still have lovely designs with the proceeds going to a great organisation.

If you’re worried about having limited time to volunteer or spend time physically giving back, buying charity Christmas cards is an incredibly easy way to support your favourite local charity.

To see Chestnut Tree House’s Christmas card selection, please see their website: www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/onlineshop/christmas-cards/ To see the Friends of Sussex Hospices card selection, please see their website:

www.friendsofsussexhospices.org.uk/ ourevents/cards/

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Brighton & Hove Food Partnership With the cost of living crisis making it increasingly difficult to balance our budgets and tough decisions having to be made regarding the essentials, Brighton & Hove Food Partnership’s work has become more important than ever. If you’re looking for a place to donate or volunteer, then they will have the right opportunities for you, as well as supporting numerous local food projects.

Recently Brighton & Hove Food Partnership has partnered with Brighton & Hove Citizens Advice to create The Brighton & Hove Cost of Living Crisis Campaign. The campaign was aimed as a local appeal to help people in poverty in Brighton & Hove with their food and fuel costs. Accepting vouchers, food parcels and low-energy items to help people to better their energy expenditure, the campaign has now closed, however, it’s not too late to get involved with The Brighton & Hove Food Partnership at a time when spending on food and energy is generally increased.

Please visit the Brighton & Hove Food Partnership website for more ways to give back: bhfood.org.uk/

Santas on the Seafront 9th December @ 14:00-16:00 at Worthing promenade The first event on our list, Santas on the Seafront held by MNDA (Motor Neurone Disease Association), invites you to dress up as Father Christmas, one of his elven companions, or simply wear something nice and Christmassy, and engage in a 5k run along Worthing Promenade, culminating at Splashpoint Leisure Centre. There are 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place prizes for the best-dressed competitor, with the entry fee being £10. The run itself is free to join, with opportunities to register and donate on the day.

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All money raised goes directly towards treating Motor Neurone Disease, a disease that attacks nerves and muscles that no longer work, with one in 300 people developing the disease at some point in their lives.

To get involved, make sure to visit the MNDA website: mndawestsussexsouth.co.uk/event/ santas-on-the-seafront-2023/

Christmas at The Castle 30th November @ 19:00 – 23:00 at Arundel Castle If you’re looking to view some of the best wildlife art in existence at the historic Arundel Castle, then David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s ‘Christmas at the Castle’ event would probably be our recommendation. This event celebrates the work that DSWF has done over the past year. A little further from home, but nonetheless, a topical and worthwhile way to give back, DSWF’s mission is to fight, protect, and engage on behalf of endangered wildlife around the world and have key conservation projects across Africa and Asia.

To book tickets and find out more, visit their Eventbrite page: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ david-shepherd-wildlife-foundation-christmas-at-the-castle-tickets-688008551097

Friday-Ad is Local. Friday-Ad is Sussex!

HRVAB Christmas Fete 9th December @ 10:30 – 12:30 at John Taplin Centre, St. Leonards-on-Sea With a festive tombola and Christmas gifts, as well as cakes and preserves, supporting the blind & partially sighted has never been more appealing. An excellent opportunity to feel a little less guilty when indulging in some retail therapy/Christmas shopping. There’s lots to entertain the kids too!

To donate to HRVAB, please visit their website: www.hrvab.org.uk/events/christmasfete-9december2023

Final Thoughts Don’t forget, an average recipient of each act of charity is someone who is struggling to pay for essential services and, in many cases, doesn’t have enough for a weekly shop. If we can touch the lives of those who can’t afford these essential services, it can serve as a reminder to us all that we each deserve respect and care, not only at Christmas but all year round.

We have spoken about some excellent charities, all of which do great work. If we can act on these opportunities, whether this is buying Christmas cards or running along the beach dressed as Santa, we can not only improve our own physical and mental health, but we can also make an immeasurable difference in someone else’s life.

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Nice and dry logs from A&R Logs Sussex

Due to upcoming energy cost increases, now is the perfect time to buy and store your logs for winter. We offer FREE DELIVERY to most BN and TN postcodes, including Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Seaford, Uckfield, Eastbourne, Hastings and more!

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01323 364 380 / 07928 788 715

Over 4 million homeowners could be eligible for free boiler grants. If you currently own a boiler that’s 15+ years old and receive benefits, you may qualify for free upgrades and reduce energy bills up to 40%.

Click here to apply!

01737 762496

www.getafreeboiler.co.uk

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Payless Tyres have the largest selection of part worn tyres in stock in the UK – approximately 10,000 part worn tyres, at any one time.

Part Worn Tyre Store from Payless Tyres Ltd specialise in part worn tyres for high performance vehicles. We stock all makes and sizes in an unmatched range of high performance premium brands.

Part Worn Tyre Store from Payless Tyres Ltd are a large stockist of run flat, 4×4 and supercar specialist tyres in all leading brands. All our part worn tyres are visually and pressure tested to the highest standards and come with a no quibble guarantee.

Part worn tyres can also be shipped to you by courier, anywhere in the UK mainland excluding Northern Ireland.

01903 821524

01273 680636

www.partworntyrestore.com

Unit 2, 3 Meadow Road Industrial Estate, Dale Road, Worthing, BN11 2RZ / 1 WildPark House, Home Farm Road, Brighton, BN1 9HT

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Man and mini digger for hire: drainage, drives, general groundworks, hardcore. MoT top soil, drives prepared, muck away service.

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Win Christmas Enter now!

Fancy winning Christmas on Friday-Ad? We've teamed up with a host of local Sussex-based businesses to bring you the ultimate prize... your Christmas, on us!

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Christmas Hamper courtesy of UpCountry Garden &

Country Store

Our friends at UpCountry in Scaynes Hill and Stone Cross are supplying a special hamper packed full of festive treats!

12lb Family Turkey courtesy of Wickenden Meats

Family-run butchers, Wickenden Meats in Hove, are providing a whopping 12lb turkey for you to enjoy on the day!

7ft Christmas Tree

courtesy of Sussex Christmas Trees With over 100,000 of the finest Christmas trees around, the team at Sussex Christmas Trees will gift you a tree of your choice from one of their farms in Lindfield or Five Ashes!

Decorations

courtesy of UpCountry Garden &

Country Store UpCountry have also kindly donated a voucher for £60 worth of decorations, so you can choose how to deck your halls!

Enter now to win all of this!

Friday-Ad is Local. Friday-Ad is Sussex!

Thank You! Thank you for joining us on this festive journey! In the spirit of the season, we hope these pages have illuminated the richness of Sussex’s festive events and the diversity of our local businesses.

Your support makes it possible for us to showcase the best of Sussex, celebrating the traditions, creativity and success of our communities and businesses. Your enthusiasm fuels the holiday spirit and keeps our county thriving.

As the festive seasons unfolds, may you find joy in gatherings with those you love, warmth in the traditions we hold dear and continue to cherish the local gems that make Sussex shine.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, and we look forward to bringing you more stories, events and opportunities to recognise our incredible local businesses in the future.

We wish you a season filled with love, laughter and the magic of Sussex.

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Friday-Ad is Local. Friday-Ad is Sussex!

Find great gift inspiration for a greener Christmas with thousands of new and used bargains from local sellers on Friday-Ad.co.uk

All this and much more on Friday-Ad.co.uk