Cuckfield's Big Summer Picnic this July

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Get ready for a fantastic afternoon of fun, music, and community spirit as Whiteman’s Green prepares to host its 2025 big summer picnic.

The free event, courtesy of Cuckfield Parish Council and in partnership with Haywards Heath Rugby Club, promises something for everyone. From live music to family-friendly activities - it’s the perfect way to spend a sunny Sunday with friends and neighbours.

There will be live entertainment from the brilliant Band of Dads (B.O.D.) who will be playing throughout the afternoon, setting the perfect soundtrack for your picnic and friendly blanket gatherings.

Kids can enjoy fairground rides and special activities, plus there’s a free Skate Jam—so don’t forget to bring some cash!

You will also be able to tuck into an array of delicious offerings from a variety of food and drink stalls. And the newly opened clubhouse bar will also be serving up refreshments throughout the day plus running a BBQ.

To help ease congestion on Staplefield Road, we are encouraging people to walk to the event where possible. We are offering drop-off slots for anyone attending with belongings between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

Disabled parking is available in advance by reservation only at kate.west@ cuckfield.gov. uk - please don’t forget to send us your name and car registration.

Extra bins will be available on the day, but we’d really appreciate it if you could please take your rubbish home with you to help us keep the green clean and free of any litter.

The special event will take place on Whitemans Green (in front of the clubhouse) on 20th July from 1pm – 5pm. It’ll be a wonderful opportunity for you to connect with the community, relax with your family, and celebrate summer in style. We look forward to seeing you there.

Mid Sussex District Council celebrates Mid Sussex Applause Awards

Celebration for the unsung heroes of Mid Sussex

Unsung heroes were celebrated at the Mid Sussex Applauds Awards 2025 - an annual event that recognises those people who go the extra mile for their community. More than 100 people attended a special ceremony that was organised by Mid Sussex District Council and held at the South of England Showground, Ardingly. Hosted by Cllr Rodney Jackson, Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council, and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Timothy Fooks, there were 37 individuals, groups or businesses who were recognised for their contribution to the district.

These included nine winners, 10 highly commended and 18 commended nominees. Sponsors of the awards were: Community People, Glendale, Jobs Go Public, Orchards Shopping Centre, Places Leisure, City Science, MUFG and Chroma Vision. For a list of all winners, including those highly commended and commended, visit www.midsussexapplauds.co.uk

To see our showcase of winners and to read the full article, please click the images to enlarge them or pick up your copy of July’s Cuckfield Life.

Heath Rugby Club opens padel courts at Whitemans Green

Padel courts at Whitemans Green

Smash Padel Mid Sussex is now open - a new padel centre for play by all at Whitemans Green. The initiative, driven by HHRFC, follows the opening of the Club’s fabulous new Clubhouse at the end of 2024.

Padel, one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, is a dynamic, fast-paced game that’s easy to learn and addictive to play. It’s accessible for all ages and abilities, making it the perfect sport for families, fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to stay active while having fun.

There are three state-of-the-art outdoor padel courts, each equipped with specially designed canopy covers ensuring year-round playability in all weather conditions. The Clubhouse offers amazing spectator facilities to view live sport on multiple big TV screens, socialise with padel friends over delicious food and drinks now available 8am until late seven days a week and watch others playing padel from the balcony and new terrace.

Phil Herbert, Commercial Director at HHRFC said: “The Club independently raised £2.4m over five years to build a Clubhouse that would become a multi-sports and community hub for the Mid Sussex area. Building padel courts was an important part of our strategy to ensure Whitemans Green Sports Club attracts a wider audience and is commercially sustainable for generations to come. We are delighted to partner with Smash Padel in this venture.”

For more information visit www.whitemansgreensports.club