the Hurst
Welcome to the Summer edition of The Hurst. This issue coincides with the conclusion of the Neighbourhood Plan examination.
Following the second formal public consultation of the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Plan, conducted by Rother District Council, the examination of Hurst Green’s neighbourhood plan began in January 2025. The examination serves as a crucial milestone to shaping the future of our community, and focuses on ensuring that the proposed plan meets with national planning requirements and aligns with local policies. An independent examiner, Mr John Slater, was appointed to assess the plan by Rother District Council. Mr. Slater had previously examined several other neighbourhood plans in Rother and the surrounding area. Mr. Slater visited Hurst Green to familiarise himself with the parish and to review key sites, including an accompanied visit to a proposed allocation site for approximately 3 to 4 new dwellings near to the entrance of Iridge Place. This visit allowed the examiner to assess the parish, landscape, the proposed de-
velopment area, and local green spaces.
Following his visit, Mr. Slater issued a series of questions to the Parish Council and to Rother District Council. These questions sought clarification on specific policies, site allocations, and representations made during the Regulation 16 consultation. Rother District Council and the Parish Council responded to these questions.
On the 28th March, Mr Slater published his report, recommending that the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Plan should proceed to a local referendum, subject to some modifications.
The examiner’s key recommendations included: Reinstating two key housing sites on London Road as formal allocations that both already had planning permission; streamlining some design and heritage policies to ensure they align with national planning guidance’ simplifying requirements around sustainable tourism and biodiversity, reflecting recent legal and policy changes.
The Parish Council are grateful for the community’s ongoing engagement, and would like to thank everyone who contributed to the consultations and examination process.
Editor: Francesca Wooldridge. thehurst.hg@gmail.com
Advertising: Allan Cheek. cheekallan@gmail.com
© Hurst Green PCC
USEFUL CONTACTS
Allotment Association 01580 860251
Breakfast Club (75+) 01580 860760/860358
Brownies 01580 860742
Comedy Capers 01580 860221
Cricket Club 07796 976809
Holy Trinity Church 01580 880282
Hurst Green C of E School 01580 860375
Nursery School 01580 860375 x211
Parish Clerk 01580 860111
Rother District Council 01424 787000
Short Mat Bowling 01580 752348
Twinning Association 01580 860977
Village Hall Booking Agent 01580 860425
HELPFUL LOCAL SERVICES
Cars Mobile Car Mechanic: Cliff Mercer 07909 911869
Dogs Holiday and day care: Lorely Watson 01580 880061/07796 392653
Pippin’s Pet Sitting and walking: 07717 681972
Sarah.janeheasman@hotmail.co.uk
Eco-friendly products Joanna Girling 07443 411677 girling.joanna@gmail.com
Electricians Gareth Skinner 07929 839309
Tim Russell 07771 687636 trussell.5@btinternet.com
House Portraits Christine Masters Art 07833 342020
www.christinemastersart.wordpress.com
Leather repairs Kay Lloyd,Wealden Saddlery 01580 860860
Maths tuition Alec Whiteman 01580 861304
Pest control Paul Messenger 07940 744411 paul@roecallservices.com
Plastering and tiling Edd Ripley, 07875 494493
Plumbers Aaron Plumbing & Heating LtdAaron Rowsell 01580 230330
Steve Walker 07564 405702
Private car hire and taxi service
Hugo, 01435 883803 Mob. 07931 605057
If you would like to be included in this list please email thehurst.hg@gmail.com This is a free listing.
Looking to the Future...
As I look out of my window across the rooftops of our village, I see the beautiful shades of green as the trees all blossom into full leaf. Change is occurring. The yearly cycle and constant change of the seasons. In our lives, we often face change. Some changes are welcomed, like the arrival of our new granddaughter. Others are more difficult, such as the loss of a loved one, the closing of a chapter we hoped would last longer, or the quiet ache of uncertainty. Our village church experienced difficult change at the end of last year, and we are now without a vicar.
Yet, in all these situations, we are invited to be brave and move forward. The New Testament is filled with stories of people who faced great change and responded. As we have just celebrated Easter, one of the most powerful examples is the story of the disciples after the resurrection. Their world had been turned upside down. They had seen their teacher crucified and their hopes seemingly dashed. Then, the risen Christ appeared and said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21). Jesus didn’t promise the disciples that things would return to how they had been. Instead, He offered them something better—His presence, His peace, and a purpose. He gave them the courage to go forward, not back. To trust, not in what they had lost, but in what was now possible through Him.
As a village community, we’ve all experienced changes—some joyful, others difficult. Whether your journey is one of celebration or sorrow, know this: God walks with you. His love does not change, even when everything else around us does. Let us be a people who move forward. Not with all the answers, but with hearts open to the new things God is doing in our midst. Let’s encourage one another, pray for one another, and trust that we will all be given the strength to take the next step forward, whatever it may be, and blossom just like the trees I see outside.
Church Details:
Services are every Sunday at 9.30am, with coffee beforehand at 9.00am. We alternate services between Holy Communion and a more Informal Service of Worship. You will receive a very warm welcome from our small but loyal congregation. The church normally remains open until 4pm on Sundays for private prayer or just a few moments peace
and quiet; a space to think away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
We are planning some fundraising events in the coming months, and we hope you will come and support us. A cream tea will be held in July and a quiz night in October, (more details will be advertised on Facebook and Next Door nearer the time).
Alan Digman & Holy Trinity PCC
Contacts:
Our Church Warden is Alan Digman. Alan is the contact for requests for baptisms, weddings and funerals and for access to the church. Phone: 07435 064809.
Mary Digman is our Safeguarding Officer for the church. Phone: 077136 25801
Helen Winning is our Authorised Lay Minister who can offer pastoral care and home visits, including Holy Communion for people who are housebound. Phone: 07788 596115
VILLAGE HALL
Reg Charity no. 229672
MONDAY 5pm Children’s gymnastics
7.30pm Short Mat Bowls
TUESDAY 8.45am Pilates (07798 663820)
7pm Jive & Lindy Hop (07766 881045)
8pm Parish Council Meeting (last Tuesday of each month)
WEDNESDAY 5.30pm Brownies (termtime only)
THURSDAY 8.45am Pilates
1.30pm Short Mat Bowls
8pm Zumba
FRIDAY 10am Breakfast Club (2nd & 4th Friday each month) 4pm Children’s gymnastics
For more information, contact: Sue Endean, 07718 282605, 01580 860425
The Village Comes Together...One tree at a time!
A community planting day has blossomed into the Hurst Green Community Orchard—an inspiring green space created by local residents and Parish Councillors. Planted in the village park, the orchard stands as a tribute to the Coronation of King Charles III and a step toward greater environmental initiatives. Over one weekend, volunteers planted 31 native and heritage fruit trees including apple, pear, plum, cherry, medlar, and black mulberry. These trees were carefully selected with expert guidance for their ecological value and suitability to local soil. The initiative was led by the Parish Council, supported by residents, and funded by Rother District Council through DEFRA’s Coronation Living Heritage Fund.
This orchard project reflects a growing UK movement embracing green living, sustainability, and local food resilience. Unlike decorative planting, orchards offer practical benefits: fresh fruit, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitats, and educational resources.
with prams, and those with mobility needs. A mix of dwarf and semi-dwarf trees further ensures engagement for all ages and abilities— from fruit-picking to seasonal pruning sessions.
A highlight of the project was the “Adopt-aTree” program, which invited individuals, families, and groups to plant and care for a tree. Many residents shared heartfelt stories of connection, belonging, and pride. “It was a magical day,” said one parent. “Watching my children plant ‘their tree’ was unforgettable.” Another former resident commented online about the joy of planting a tree in a place that held deep family memories.
While the orchard adds natural beauty to the park, its purpose reaches further. It is designed to provide food and shelter for pollinators and birds; offer outdoor learning for schools and community groups; and act as a carbon sink, enhancing climate resilience.
To ensure the orchard flourishes, the Parish Council has added its care to the regular park maintenance schedule. This includes watering, pruning, and monitoring for pests. Plans are also underway to form a volunteer group to support year-round maintenance and host workshops on tree care, harvesting, and fruit preservation.
Beyond its environmental value, the orchard is a commemorative space honoring King Charles III’s coronation. A permanent plaque and information board mark the entrance, ensuring the orchard serves as a living legacy and a reminder of local action in the face of global challenges.
Accessibility was a major focus of the design. Utilizing an existing all-weather path, the space is easily navigable by wheelchair users, parents
Parish Councillor Andrew Brown praised the turnout and enthusiasm, saying, “The orchard will serve as a space for nature, reflection, and eventually free fruit for the community.”
Though modest in size, the orchard is a powerful symbol of unity, sustainability, and proactive rural development. As the trees grow, so too will the sense of shared purpose and community pride. Whether you helped plant, water, or simply watched, the orchard belongs to you—and its success relies on continued local involvement.
In a world often defined by crisis, Hurst Green’s orchard shines as a hopeful example of what’s possible when communities come together— one tree at a time.
Community Speedwatch is a national initiative where proactive members of local communities join with the support and supervision of their local police to record details of speeding vehicles using approved detection devices. Registered keepers of vehicles exceeding the speed limit are contacted - initially with a letter explaining the potential risks and consequences of their dangerous behaviour. Repeat offenders will receive a visit from the local police, irrespective of where they live. Beyond these friendly gestures, focused enforcement and criminal prosecution follow based on the collated evidence. CSW Online operates nationally on behalf of the police and communities to organise and join up Speedwatch activity. The organisation coordinates responses based on the collated data from all groups involved. Speeding is not just a local phenomenon - and neither is Speedwatch.
active on our two major roads, the A21 London Road and A265 Station Road. The Hurst Green group is currently supported by volunteers from Etchingham but it is hoped that as more concerned Hurst Green residents apply to join, a standalone group may be possible. The sessions are planned to fit in with volunteers’ availability and are normally half-hour duration.
Full information is accessed via the Community Speedwatch website: https://www.sussex.police.uk/advice/adviceand-information/wsi/watch-schemes-initiatives/ speedwatch/community-speedwatch/
Following a recent appeal from Community Speedwatch for Hurst Green volunteers, a new group has been formed and are already
The MP who came to breakfast!
On the 4th March, Kieran Mullan, MP for the Bexhill and Battle constituency, visited Hurst Green Over 75s Breakfast Club which meets twice a month in Hurst Green Village Hall and this is what he posted on his website after his visit
The club is run by Elaine Ralph and Clive Twort with the support of a group of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers who prepare a Full English Breakfast for its members. The club’s volunteers also offer lifts to and from the village hall for those who may struggle to attend to make sure no one misses out due to transport or mobility problems.
Kieran said “I was made to feel so welcome by the volunteers and members of the breakfast club. Having spent time chatting to everyone, it is clear to see that this social event is so important to the senior members of the Hurst Green village community. The club helps to alleviate loneliness and isolation which can be a real problem for those living in rural areas. And, for some, it is a welcome break from full-time caring responsibilities. One of the social issues that drew me to politics was loneliness and social isolation - as a former A&E doctor seeing older patients in hospital and I saw firsthand the direct impact it had on them.
“It would be great if every village had an Over 75s Breakfast Club like Hurst Green. It creates a sense of belonging to the community, sharing news and enjoying company of friends and making new friends. They also look out for each other and are quick to notice when someone is
experiencing illness or problems.
“I should like to say a big thank you to Elaine and all the volunteers who give so much of their time and energy to running the club. I should also like to thank Hurst Green parish council for their financial support of the club, its exactly the sort of project that a parish council should support, they set a great example to others.”
The Over 75s Breakfast Club is always looking to raise funds to cover their costs. If any other local organisations or businesses would like to sponsor the club or donate to the regular fund-raising raffle, please contact elaine.ralph@ pobox.cc .
If anyone is interested in joining the club and coming to breakfast on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month please contact Elaine for further information
This year the Macmillan Coffee Morning will be held on Saturday 27th September at 10.00am in Hurst Green Village Hall Hopefully lots of folks in the village and local business will come along to support us or make a donation to this very worthwhile cause.
Who was Who?
By Madeleine Janes
In 2020, Holy Trinity Church began the ‘Adopt A Grave’ project, where volunteers care for untended graves. I was invited to research the family history of each grave’s occupant so volunteers could learn more about the individuals they were honoring. This soon expanded into a wider project to research everyone buried in the Holy Trinity Church graveyard.
Though I knew this would be a long task, it has been an enjoyable one. The release of the 1921 census in 2022 meant revisiting the nearly 30 families I had already researched to update their records. I also incorporated information from the 1939 Register. The 1921 census is especially significant, as the 1931 records were lost during World War II and no census was taken in 1941 due to the war. The next release, from 1951, won’t be available until 2052.
To organize the information I’ve gathered, I created a database of grave occupants. I hope to make it publicly accessible online so people
worldwide can check if their ancestors are buried in Hurst Green. So far, the database includes 389 individuals and 136 photos of headstones, which often serve as the starting point for my research. We estimate we’ve documented about half the graves in the churchyard, though we don’t know the exact total or how many headstones remain legible. Although all parishes have been required to keep records of baptisms, marriages, and burials since the 16th century, Holy Trinity’s original records were lost when the church safe was stolen. The East Sussex Records Office (The Keep) only holds modern records, so much of what I’ve found is all we know—especially about the oldest graves.
If you have any historical information, grave details, or photos you’d like to share, please email me at madeleine.janes@btinternet.com.
We also invite volunteers to help maintain the graveyard on the second Saturday of each summer month, starting 10th May, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. For details, contact Elaine at elaine.ralph@ pobox.cc.
New Homes Coming to Hurst Green: Foundry Close Development Update
Work is well underway at Foundry Close, a new housing development located at the end of Foundry Close in the village. The scheme, delivered by Southern Housing, will bring a total of 20 new affordable homes to the village –including a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom properties. 14 of the homes will be available to buy through Shared Ownership, with the remaining six offered for Affordable Rent.
All homes will be prioritised for people with a local connection to the Rother District, aiming to provide opportunities for residents with roots in the area to stay within the community. The development includes: x 2-bedroom houses, x 3-bedroom houses, x 4-bedroom houses. Parking provision has been incorporated into the design, with dedicated parking spaces for residents. In addition, visitors’ parking has been planned. According to Southern Housing, each property will include integrated kitchen appliances such as an oven, ceramic hob, fridge/ freezer, dishwasher, and washing machine. Private gardens are also included with each home. The houses themselves have been designed to reflect the character of Hurst Green. The scheme also includes a new small public green space which will include several benches etc.
Ownership Schemes and Who is Eligible.
In addition to Shared Ownership, there are several other homeownership and rental schemes available, which will apply depending on
each household’s circumstances.
These include: Affordable Rent (homes let at up to 80% of market rent). Rent to Buy (allowing residents to rent at a reduced rate while saving to buy), First Homes scheme (homes sold at a discount to first-time buyers and key workers).
Shared Ownership, backed by the government, allows buyers to purchase a share of a property (between 25-75%) while paying a reduced rent on the remaining share.
Residents may also have the option to increase their share over time, known as “staircasing”.
Further details on eligibility criteria, including the definition of a “local connection” to the Rother District, can be found on the District Council’s and Southern Housing’s website.
We Are Group is a social impact company committed to ensuring no one is left behind especially when it comes to essential services like energy.
Thanks to funding from their partner, UK Power Networks, they have launched a free Energy Advice Service which is designed to help people reduce their gas, electricity and water bills. This could really help individuals and families in need.
Their friendly agents offer personalised and practical advice (all free of charge) which can help service users learn easy hacks which will lead to savings on utility bills; get support with switching to more affordable tariffs; and apply for grants which can be put towards bills. The service is completely free and available to all residents. The free Energy Advice service can be reached via https://wearegroup.my.site. com/EnergyAdvice/s/ or by calling 0113 518 4070.
Primary School celebrates Outstanding Inspection Results
Hurst Green Church of England Primary School and Nursery is thrilled to announce the results of its recent inspection, conducted on March 18, 2025, which highlighted the school’s unwavering commitment to fostering a nurturing and ambitious learning environment for all pupils.
The inspection report reveals that pupils at Hurst Green are not only fiercely proud of their small village school but are also excited to arrive each day. The school embodies ‘Core Christian’ values, creating a climate of trust, friendship, and compassion that permeates all aspects of school life. Older pupils play an essential role in welcoming younger pupils, ensuring a seamless integration into the school community.
Key Highlights from the Inspection Report:
Ambitious Curriculum: The school has developed an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum that meets the diverse needs of all pupils, enabling them to achieve their full potential both academically and personally.
Outstanding behaviour: Pupils exhibit exceptional behaviour, displaying high levels of motivation and attentiveness in lessons.
Enrichment Opportunities: A rich array of trips and visits enhances cultural understanding and deepens engagement with the curriculum, while pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles through initiatives like the pupil council and worship warriors.
Focus on Personal Development: The school’s ‘Life Skills’ curriculum promotes personal, social, and health education, ensuring that pupils develop self-confidence and self-belief.
Commitment to Improvement and Excellence
The inspection report commended school leaders at all levels for their effectiveness and the rapid improvements brought about with the support of the Diocese of Chichester Academy Trust. Mark Talbot, CEO, added, “The outstanding results of this inspection showcase the dedication and passion of everyone at Hurst Green. Our commitment to excellence in education is unwavering, and
we are proud to support such a vibrant school community that nurtures the potential of every pupil.” Governance at the school is strong, with a clear vision that prioritizes the needs and achievements of all pupils. The Chair of Governors, Elaine Lambert remarked, “This inspection confirms our vision for Hurst Green as a place where every pupil is valued and inspired to achieve. We are incredibly proud of the collaborative efforts of our staff, pupils, and parents, which have led to this fantastic outcome.”
Headteacher Allison Flack expressed her pride in the school’s achievements: “This report reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and the entire school community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive.”
Hurst Green Church of England Primary School and Nursery remains dedicated to providing a supportive and engaging educational experience for all pupils, preparing them to become confident, responsible members of their community and discover their individual talents so they can ‘let their light shine’.
For more information about Hurst Green Church of England Primary School and Nursery, please visit Welcome - Hurst Green Church of England Primary School & Nursery
https://hurstgreen.e-sussex.sch.uk/
AN ‘AWAYDAY’ WALK
USING TRAIN AND BUS TO LAKEDOWN BREWERY TAPROOM
Allan Cheek continues his regular feature in the Hurst describing different walks. For information, contact Allan by text/What’sApp 07803 502972.
“As we’ve covered all the local footpaths in Hurst Green we’re offering something different this time. Starting from Stonegate railway station (one stop via Etchingham or drive) the aim of this route is to arrive at the lovely Lakedown Brewery Tap (check opening hours for refreshments. A beautiful setting beside one of the Lakedown Fishery lakes. If coming by train just cross over using the footbridge and head right up the sloped drive past the overspill carpark and after approx 250m look for a bridlepath pointer through a metal gate on your right. Follow this lightly marked path towards the large farm buildings and a redundant yellow digger. Here you’ll see ahead a small gate leading to a bridge over the railway. On entering the field turn right to follow the edge then left to a rough track which again follows the field edge downhill to a gully before heading uphill in a narrow animal drive towards a cottage and gate out onto Peartree Hill. Turn left downhill keeping on the wide verge for just 50m or so before crossing to Witherenden Farm entrance and the beautifully cared for gardens of the house. Follow the track to the farmyard bearing left at the top then straight through the buildings heading downhill to cross the Tide Brook where you take the straight narrow footpath heading right towards the woods and a metal gate on entering. Follow this well used path in a SW directionall the way through to emerge past a pretty house on the left and through Bivelham Forge farm buildings to a junction of narrow lanes. Head left and dowhill to another junction where you can take off the corner heading right and uphill on Witherenden Road to pass the historic Pound Cottage on your left
shortly before reaching a double gated farm track/bridlepath on the right before Pound Bridge. Follow this for 400m where you take the bridlepath straight ahead at the bend in the track. This path leads past two breathtaking properties, weaves a bit (follow blue bridlepath arrows), crosses a stream, before heading out on the access lane uphill ignoring tracks right and left to emerge back out on to Witherenden Road where you walk straight across down to Froghole Farm. On last visit the farmhouse and buildings looked deserted. Turn right at the farm past the open barns then left along a reclaimed track to find a metal gate straight ahead (having just crossed the River Rother, albeit almost unnoticed) into a little used path which could be muddy after rain and unkempt. This continues uphill for about 1km exiting via a metal gate and right onto hard surface once again. Passing Great Bigknowle Farm and eventually reaching a cross road at Knowle Farm where you head left on unnamed lane to T-junction with Swife Lane. Turn left and proceed for about 600m to find the entrance on the right to Lakedown Fishery and Brewery Taproom. Follow the double concrete driveway past the brewery down to the lake.
Measured at 6 miles you should allow around 2.5 hours for the walk.
Your return to Stonegate station is recommended via the very useful East Sussex council Flexibus service.
https://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/roads-transport/ public/flexibus. Phone 01273 078203 - 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Service currently not available Sunday or Bank Holidays.
THE FLORAL BOUTIQUE LTD
20, HIGH STREET, ROBERTSBRIDGE
Open Monday – Saturday
Telephone orders welcome
Wide delivery area
Major
Cricket Club Update Village Bench Scheme Launched
Hurst Green residents now have the opportunity to contribute to the village’s public spaces with the introduction of a new public bench scheme. The initiative, approved by the Parish Council last year, provides a structured way for individuals and families to purchase benches to be installed on councilmanaged land in memory of loved ones or simply for the benefit of the community. Under the scheme, applicants can request a bench for any location managed by the Parish Council. While many will be memorial benches, this is not a requirement, and residents are encouraged to apply. The application process is straightforward, residents submit their request to the Clerk to the Council, including details of the proposed location, bench size, and any desired engraving. Applicants are responsible for the associated costs, including the cost of the bench, its installation and a ten-year maintenance fee of £580. Once installed, the bench becomes the property of the Parish Council, which will ensure its upkeep. Residents interested in applying for a bench can contact the Clerk to the Council for more information or visit the official Parish Council website: hurstgreen-pc.gov.uk
COMEDY CORNER
I went to my doctor a month ago. I would have gone sooner but I wasn’t very well. I said, “I feel terrible Doc. What with Covid, influenza, Ukraine, Gaza – I feel so depressed.”
He said, “Drink a double scotch after a hot bath – that should do the trick.” Well, that was four weeks ago – I’m still drinking the hot bath!!
My wife had essential plastic surgery last week… I cut up all her credit cards !!!
What a glorious start to spring we have had, I can’t remember such a warm March and April, which has really helped with preparations for the season ahead. Last year the incessant rain meant we were unable to play a game until late May but this year, the wicket was ready and a game played in mid-April by TW Superkings, who use our ground for league cricket on Saturdays.
Those who have visited the cricket field will have seen a trench dug up to the pavilion, which has replaced our water supply that sprung a leak last year and our thanks go to Graham Browne on the Parish Council for organising the repairs. We’ve also brought up from Etchingham the poles and astroturf for setting up a cricket practice net, which should be in place by the end of summer.
We switched sports on 1st April to challenge the Royal George Darts Team and although we looked the business in our shirts, sadly our darts weren’t quite up to scratch. Thanks to Leon and the team for a great night and we look forward to the return match on June 27th, a T20 game at the cricket pitch.
Our Tuesday evening cricket practice started on 22nd April and we had new faces turn up, who we hope will go onto play in our squad in the future. Our first game was against Robertsbridge on the 11th May. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates and if you’d like to play or support the club with sponsorship, please email hurstgreencc@gmail.com
