Mid Sussex Choir celebrates 80 years

By Gemma Stedrak-Booth

The Mid Sussex Choir traces its origins to Staplefield in 1943. At the time, Joyce and Don Hayward were farming and missing the joy of singing in a musical group, as they had before the Second World War. By 1946, as Britain began to recover, the couple joined with other local music lovers to form a community choir, led by Hilary Preston. Eighty years on, the Mid Sussex Choir continues to thrive as a vibrant choral group and will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026.

Over eight decades, the choir has performed a rich tapestry of music - from classical masterpieces to modern favourites - delighting audiences across Mid Sussex. Much has been written about the health benefits that singing brings, which is an additional benefit to the simple joy of singing with others and having musical experiences together.

Looking ahead, the Mid Sussex Choir is preparing a spectacular Anniversary Concert: ‘The Last Night of the Proms’ on Saturday 25th April 2026 at All Saints Church, Lindfield. Expect a joyous evening packed with all the Proms favourites, from Elgar’s ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ to beloved singalongs that will lift the roof!

As part of its anniversary season, the choir is warmly inviting new singers of all voice parts - soprano, alto, tenor, and bass - to join for the 2025-2026 season, beginning on Wednesday 3rd September. Whether you’ve sung in choirs for years or are an enthusiastic amateur eager to try, you’ll find a friendly welcome and the chance to be part of something truly special.

To find out more, visit the Mid Sussex Choir’s website at www.midsussexchoir.org.uk, email contact@midsussexchoir.org.uk or come along to a rehearsal and experience it in person. We look forward to meeting you!

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

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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.