Bank holiday bloc party returns to Rose & Crown, Cuckfield

By James Clark

I think this must be our fourth consecutive Bloc Party held at the Rose and Crown. Every year, we welcome hundreds of people to our special event and each year we are overwhelmed by the response.
This year nothing has really changed. Our objective remains much the same as it’s always been; the aim of which is to bring people from the community together and for everyone to enjoy a fun day out.

As in previous years, there will be a bunch of food trucks serving high quality street food and a large selection of drinks will be available inside and in the outside bar, all from local breweries, vineyards and distilleries.
And please let’s not forget about the music and all the bands that will be performing throughout the day and well into the night.

We’ve also put a lot of effort and work into our beer garden of late, and it really is looking pretty good. So, by the time the party arrives, we should be equipped with a new ping pong table and a number of jovial garden games to keep people busy while they’re enjoying the summer weather and sharing a few drinks.

On a final note, as before, we’ll be donating a portion of our takings from the event to a designated charity. Date for diary: Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August. Gates open at midday. No tickets. No reservations.

Cuckfield's Big Summer Picnic this July

Click to enlarge

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.