
by Bob Scattergood.
Contact: fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com
4th July 2025
FAIRLIGHT OPEN GARDENS Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th July – 10:30 am – 4 pm
Attention green-fingered folk, floral fanatics, and lovers of a well-placed deckchair, Fairlight Open Gardens is back next weekend, and it’s blooming marvellous! Thanks to generous sponsorship from Just Property, this much-loved village event returns in full colour, with 19 glorious gardens throwing open their gates to the public. Whether you prefer grand old gardens with lawns you could land a helicopter on, or cute little plots just finding their feet (or roots), there’s something for everyone, especially if “everyone” likes tea and cake. Proceeds go to two brilliant local causes: St Michael’s Hospice and Fairlight’s Friday Lunch Club, so while you’re admiring the delphiniums, you’re also doing a bit of good. That’s what I call multi-tasking. To help you explore at a civilised pace, and leave time for seconds at the cake table, organisers recommend you take full advantage of the two-day ticket. After all, there’s a lot to get through: cream teas, homemade ice cream, coffee, cakes, Pimm’s, hot dogs, ploughman’s lunches, mimosa cocktails, and even a bar with wine, beer, and Prosecco on ice. Honestly, it’s less a garden trail and more a deliciously disguised village-wide picnic. Tickets are £10 and cover both days. They include a map, but if your sense of direction is more “wildflower meadow” than “well-trimmed hedge,” just follow the orange balloons—they’ll guide you from garden to garden like cheerful, floating rose buds. “Where to buy tickets?” I hear you calling. In advance from MOPP, Hair Base, Garden Gems Plant Nursery, DISH, or the Gardening Club Trading Hut, or on the day at any open garden, or the marshal’s stand at the entrance to the village on Waites Lane. Alternatively, email the green-thumbed team directly: fairlightopengardens@gmail.com
However, if Open Gardens doesn’t rock your boat, and if your idea of gardening involves flinging compost at things and hoping for the best, fear not, help is at hand. Or rather, at STONELYNK ORGANICS, Battery Hill, Fairlight, where actual professionals know their kale from their courgettes. On Saturday, July 12th, 2 pm – 4:30 pm, the green-fingered gurus at Stonelynk are throwing open their gates (and compost heaps) for an event that promises to help you outwit pests, boost biodiversity, and maybe even grow something edible without crying. Learn how to invite the right creatures into your garden, the bees, the birds, the helpful beasties – and gently discourage the ones that eat everything you love.
They’ll also help you prep for winter, because yes, sadly, it will come again. Probably wetter, probably muddier, and probably sooner than you think. Expect advice, inspiration, and some solid reassurance, that even if your lettuces look like lacework, it’s not the end of the world – just the end of the lettuces! Interested? Book your place now at: www.stonelynkorganics.com
CHURCH MATTERS ST ANDREW’S CHURCH — 6th July 2025, 11:00 am.
In a bold move to bridge the gap between the pew and the paw, St Andrew’s Church is throwing open its doors for a special Pet Service, promising praise, paws, and possibly a little polite barking. Villagers are invited to bring their pets, great and small, fluffy and scaly, chatty or chilled, for a short outdoor service celebrating God’s entire creation, from hamsters to hounds. “You’re welcome to join us for a short service, which celebrates all God’s creatures, great and small,” said Reverend Sandi Wickens. Weather permitting, the congregation will be worshipping al fresco. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket, or, if you’re a cat, just sit smugly in the middle of someone else’s picnic rug. Rumours suggest the service may include tail-wagging hymns, meow-meditative prayers, and a few divine dog treats. So, whether your companion is a Saint Bernard or a slightly judgmental goldfish, all are welcome to this unique and uplifting event.
CLUB NEWS
FAIRLIGHT FRIDAY LUNCH CLUB aka MOPP
Locals are once again preparing their appetites and polishing their forks for what promises to be another legendary gathering of the Fairlight Friday Lunch Club, affectionately known to insiders as MOPP (which either stands for “Mystery Of Perfect Peas” or “Munchers Of Peach Pudding”—the jury’s still out). This Friday, tradition is king as the club dishes out that most sacred of British meals: Fish ‘n’ Chips. Sources close to the kitchen hint that mushy peas may make an appearance, but negotiations with the pea supplier remain hush-hush. “We’re hopeful,” said one volunteer, “but mushy peas are a bit like chefs, temperamental and refuse to be rushed.” For dessert, a Peach Crumble will take centre stage, and it’s expected to be drowned in custard, as nature intended.
Musical merriment will be provided by none other than local crooner Ian Williams, who returns by popular demand. Attendees can expect smooth tunes, toe taps, and at least one person trying to dance while holding a forkful of chips.
The fun kicks off at 10 am sharp, and if previous weeks are anything to go by, latecomers may have to fight off Annette for the last spoonful of custard. Consider yourself warned. So, dust off your best cardigan, sharpen your appetite, and get ready for a Friday filled with flavour, friendship, and possibly fish jokes. You batter believe it’s going to be good. (sorry).
TENNIS CLUB
Hidden deep in the undergrowth at the foot of Knowle Wood, a mysterious band of tennis enthusiasts has been discovered, and they want YOU to join them. Operating under the name Fairlight Tennis Club, this friendly outfit claims a booming membership of over 75 people. The club meets on what sources describe as a “delightful, secluded court.” Translation: the perfect place to slice, serve, and occasionally trip over your own shoelaces without an audience.
The club has embraced modern technology with an online booking system at www.courtreserve.com, which members use to schedule games, brag subtly, and spy on each other’s court times.
For those without a racket, fear not. “You don’t have to be Coco Gauff or Novak Djokovic,” reassures long-time member and all-around nice guy Jim Saphin, who also serves as the club’s contact point (tennisfairlight@aol.com). And if commitment gives you the jitters, you’re welcome to ease in by bringing a guest, just £2 per game.
CHECKMATE!
Fairlight residents, brace yourselves, the Chess Club has officially landed, thanks to local mastermind Steve Stewart. The first session kicks off Saturday, July 12th, 2–5 pm, and it’s open to beginners, experts, and everyone who just likes moving horses diagonally (which is wrong, by the way). There’ll be tea, coffee, and tactical tension, all for just £3 a session, cheaper than a latte, and far more satisfying when you get to shout “Checkmate!” dramatically. Contact Steve on M0SSR@aol.com for more details.
PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
In a gripping display of civic enthusiasm, Fairlight Parish Council met late last month for their regular monthly meeting, and yes, it was every bit as thrilling as that sounds. Attendance from the public could best be described as “intimate,” with just a handful of brave souls showing up. For those who thrill at the sound of budget line items and bus shelter updates, fear not: the full minutes will soon be available on the council’s website. Highlights, and I use the term loosely, included the announcement of yet another village survey (because who doesn’t love ticking boxes about the post office and the bin schedule every five years?). The survey, heading your way later this year, will attempt to gauge how residents feel about village facilities and their relative importance on the grand scale of life.
As I reported in last week’s article, it was confirmed that some bus shelters will be refurbished, and there’s even talk of, gasp, a new one. Sitters of the village, rejoice! It’s all part of the Parish Council’s top-secret mission to make the village look less “charmingly scruffy” and more “actually quite nice.” And leading this spruce-up operation is none other than Councillors Geoff Smith and Dominic Prichard, who have both become the Patron Saints of Seating. Geoff and Dom, we salute you—from a newly refurbished bench, of course.
However, in a shocking twist (or perhaps a gentle shrug), the meeting was not recorded on video. Whether this was a technical hiccup or a bold new “anti-transparency” policy is anyone’s guess. Either way, it’s a strange move from a council that once promised to put the “open” in “open government”, and then promptly closed the camera lens.
Next on the council’s social calendar is the July meeting, set for Tuesday, 22nd July. The August meeting has been cancelled, possibly due to the entire council running off to somewhere with better weather and fewer agendas. Until then, Fairlight, stay curious, stay caffeinated, and maybe bring a cushion to the next meeting.
Talking of meetings …………
Don’t forget tomorrow, Saturday 5th July, The Lower Waites Lane – Fairlight Cove – Road Maintenance Association, (Phew!) will be holding their Biennial General Meeting in the village hall at 2:30 pm.
GARDEN WASTE
In what appears to be a radical new approach to organic waste management, a number of residents have decided that Knowle Wood is the perfect place to dump their garden clippings. Several new “eco-installations”, aka suspicious mounds of grass, have appeared around the wood in recent weeks, baffling squirrels, annoying dog walkers, and mildly infuriating the tireless volunteers who do such a wonderful job of maintaining the woods.
Residents are respectfully reminded that garden waste does not belong in the woods, or dumped sneakily behind a tree.
And finally….
Last week, our sleepy seaside village was thrust into a David Attenborough-style nature documentary, as a large and lively pod of dolphins decided to grace our shores, right off Chanel Way, no less. Locals with sea views were treated to what one resident described as “better than anything on the telly, except maybe Bake Off.”
But amidst the oohs, ahhs, and frantic fumbling for smartphone cameras, one particularly excited villager made the bold claim that he had seen an Orca, yes, an actual killer whale, swimming among the dolphins.
“Clear as day!” insisted the spotter, who wishes to remain anonymous (but we all know it was Brian from No. 36 with the massive pair of binoculars). “Big dorsal fin, black and white, I’ve watched Free Willy, I know what I saw!”
However, marine experts and just about everyone else with access to Google have poured a small tidal wave of cold water on the sighting. The only known Orcas to regularly patrol British waters belong to a tiny, tight-knit group called the West Coast Community, and they tend to stick to the far reaches of northern Scotland. It’s a bit like claiming you saw a Highland cow walking down the high street. Possible? Maybe. Likely? Not unless it was wearing sunglasses and licking on a Cornetto! Still, Orca or no Orca, the dolphins certainly brought some excitement to the coast. And for once, the village Facebook pages were ablaze with something other than bin complaints, unwanted bonfires and lost cats. Wildlife experts have encouraged anyone with photos or videos to share them with local conservation groups, or at the very least, double-check them before claiming to have discovered Shamu’s long-lost cousin. Until then, the official position remains: Dolphins, yes. Orcas, hmm… possibly, but only after Brian’s third glass of rosé. Until next time, have a great week.
Bob Scattergood
fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com
27th June 2025
Last Saturday, June 21st, the sleepy village of Fairlight was shaken from its genteel slumber and hurled into full-blown party mode as Fairfest 2025 burst onto the scene like a glitter cannon in a library. After months of anxious weather-watching and emergency poncho budgeting, organisers were rewarded with what turned out to be the hottest, sunniest day of the year. Proceedings were officially launched at noon by Fairlight’s very own Andrew Mier, although seasoned festival pros had already begun their warm-up at the bar, limbering up with a pint of something local and possibly experimental. Kicking off the entertainment, the Raven Drummers shook the arena (and probably a few hip replacements) with their thunderous rhythms. Shortly after, the Aeromax Gymnastics Club flipped, twisted, and somersaulted across the field, reminding everyone just how little stretching they’ve done since 1997.
Over in Arena 2, because one arena simply won’t do, dogs competed for glory in the categories of Most Handsome Hound, Most Gorgeous Girl, and Waggiest Tail, which I can only assume was judged by a high-tech “tailometer” or was it that elderly gentleman with good instincts and a rather large sun hat!
Entertainment for kids, and overly enthusiastic adults, included a bouncy castle, donkeys to pat, face painting, and even a miniature steam train, which caused widespread confusion when a few enthusiastic dads tried to commute to work on it Monday morning.
Pett Level’s brave lifeboat team took command of the BBQ, until real-life heroics called them away mid-sausage. While queues lengthened and mild panic set in, they soon returned, spatulas in hand, aprons flapping in the breeze, to rapturous applause and several half-cooked burgers.
As the mercury climbed, so did demand for refreshment. With the bar running low on drinks, emergency booze reinforcements had to be scrambled. A moment of national mourning was avoided, and although details are scarce, I hear it involved a wheelbarrow, a Tesco Van, and a man called Colin, who apparently knows a guy somewhere!
As dusk descended and people re-discovered their shoulders were sunburnt, the marquee transformed into a disco inferno, before local legends The Kytes took the stage and brought the house (well, tent) down with their unique blend of tunes, charisma, and questionable dance moves.
Over the last 15 glorious years, Fairfest has cemented itself as one of Fairlight’s definitive social events, right up there with bin day and the Co-op’s reduced section. The Committee wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to all the incredible volunteers, generous sponsors, valued partners, community groups, and everyone who attended, supported, and spent their time and money to help make the event such a tremendous success.
And finally, a correction: Last week I erroneously claimed that Fairfest was a biennial event. After several stern emails and one passive-aggressive Victoria sponge, I can now confirm, it is indeed an annual affair. So fear not, it’ll all be happening again next year, probably with more shade, and definitely with more booze.
CHURCH MATTERS
ST. ANDREW’S – Authorities (well, the church warden) have confirmed that St Andrew’s Church will be the epicentre of musical merriment and communal casserole this weekend, as Celtic folk duo Nigel Cameron and Julie Cameron-Hall descend with fiddles blazing.
Dubbed the “Celtish Weekend Extravaganza” by exactly no one, the festivities kick off on Saturday, 28th June at 7:30 pm, with the Celtish Concert — an event so moving it might make a bagpipe weep. Expect haunting melodies, toe-tapping rhythms, and at least one person clapping slightly off-beat. Entry is technically free, but concert-goers are advised that a £5 donation is “gently encouraged.”But wait, there’s more! If Saturday doesn’t satisfy your need for spiritually-infused Celtic grooves, then Sunday’s 10:30 am Morning Praise is your encore. Nigel and Julie will also bless the congregation with their musical talents during the service. No need to bring a harp, just your best singing voice and perhaps a sturdy pair of socks (for stomping purposes).
Following the service, there will be a “bring and share” lunch, also known as “The Great British Potluck”, where mystery quiches, legendary lasagna, and no doubt that one salad someone always brings will make an appearance. All are welcome, and yes, that includes the musically curious, the spiritually hungry, and people who just really love free food and vibes. For those who want to stalk the duo in a socially acceptable way, visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/celtish.org/
CLUB NEWS
FAIRLIGHT FRIDAY LUNCH CLUB (MOPP)
The Friday Lunch Club, fondly known as MOPP (Marsham Older People’s Project), is putting out the call, not just for custard (we’ll get to that later), but for a new Honorary Treasurer to join their merry team. Meeting every Friday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm at Fairlight Village Hall, MOPP is a lifeline for older residents in Fairlight and beyond, offering good food, great company, gentle exercise, and more laughs than a collapsed Bake Off show stopper! Now, organiser Annette Holmes is looking for someone with a head for numbers and a heart for community. “It’s a great opportunity to give back to the village and help keep this wonderful service running strong,” she says. If that sounds like you (or someone you know), get in touch with Annette at 07703 585329 or mopps.fairlight@gmail.com. No mathematical degree required, just a calculator and some community spirit. Not treasurer material? No problem, new members are always welcome. If you enjoy a cheerful Friday outing with a two-course lunch, entertainment, friendly faces, and even help with transport, MOPP is the place to be. This Friday’s line-up features some gentle chair-based exercises (no Lycra needed, please), followed by lasagne and lemon drizzle cake. Though fair warning: there’s growing unrest about the continued lack of custard. A few bold voices have even mentioned launching a “Campaign for Real Custard.” Carol the cook, consider this your official notice. At its heart, MOPP is more than just lunch; it’s community, connection, and comfort served with a side of cake. Come for the food, stay for the friends.
FAIRLIGHT GARDENING CLUB
It’s a Blooming Busy July for Fairlight Gardeners! As summer unfurls its petals across the village, the Fairlight Gardening Club is entering full blossom, and July is shaping up to be a month busier than a bee on a buddleia. Things kick off on Monday, July 7th, with a special outing to Rotherview Nursery, where gardening guru Wendy Bates will show members how to create stunning, long-lasting trough displays. Expect compost, creativity, and possibly a bit of polite plant envy. But the real showstopper looms just around the corner: the Annual Garden Club Show, blooming into life on Saturday, July 19th. This is the horticultural highlight of the year, with 14 glittering awards across 49 fiercely fought categories, from prize-winning parsnips, to cakes that might cause actual elbowing. If you’re planning to enter (and why wouldn’t you, with a Victoria sponge like that?), you’ll need the official show schedule. It’s your passport to glory and is available at the club’s trading hut, open Saturdays 10 am to 12 noon. If you haven’t picked one up yet, hop to it, just don’t trample the marigolds. Founded way back in 1964, the Gardening Club is now the biggest in the village, and it’s not just about digging and dahlias. For just £8 a year, members enjoy a calendar full of events, visits, friendly advice, occasional soil under the nails, and the right to compete for eternal horticultural fame (and possibly a rosette). New members are always welcome, especially those with a love of plants, pots, or just a good old garden gossip. Want to know more? Ring Cas Barlow on 01424 814229.
THE LOWER WAITES LANE – FAIRLIGHT COVE – ROAD MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION: – Clear your calendars and brace yourselves for a bit of bureaucracy, because the Lower Waites Lane – Fairlight Cove – Road Maintenance Association (yes, that’s the full name) is holding its Biennial General Meeting on Saturday, 5th July at 2:30 pm in the village hall. Residents and lovers of long titles alike are encouraged to attend what promises to be an afternoon of thrilling updates, mild applause, and possibly biscuits. The agenda? A tour through the Association’s noble struggles with potholes, overgrowth, and mysterious puddles on Lower Waites Lane and its enigmatic spur roads. There will also be the latest gossip, sorry, updates, on dealings with Southern Water, which may or may not involve polite letters, sternly worded emails, and the occasional eye-roll. While the core of the meeting remains admirably civic-minded, there are whispers, distant, hopeful whispers, that a resolution may be proposed to trim the Association’s name to something less likely to cause muscle strain when typed. Perhaps something like “Waites Watchers” or simply “The Roadies.” Stay tuned. Attendance is open to all residents within the Association’s jurisdiction, roughly defined as “anyone who’s ever tried to reverse into a narrow driveway along Lower Waites Lane”. No secret handshake required. So grab your neighbour, bring a pen, and prepare for the kind of event that only happens once every two years, and feels like it lasted even longer.
VINYL NIGHT
Before streaming, before downloads, before your phone could hold a thousand songs and still have room for cat videos—there were CDs. And before CDs? Glorious, crackly, magnificent vinyl records. This Tuesday, July 1st, The Cove pub invites you to rewind the clock and drop the needle for Vinyl Night @ The Cove. This month’s theme: “All That Jazz.” Whether that means smooth saxophones or show-stopping Broadway numbers… well, I’m not entirely sure either. But I am sure it’ll be a great night. Festivities kick off at 7 pm, hosted by resident vinyl enthusiast, Henry, who apparently owns more records than is strictly reasonable. Bring your own vinyl if you’ve got some, or just bring your ears and a love for music with soul (and possibly sequins).
HEARING AIDS
Fairlight’s hearing aid heroes return! Free fixes and friendly advice – No appointment required. Do you hear that? No? Well, you’re in luck, because East Sussex Hearing is back in the village hall once again on Friday, 4th July, between 10 am and 12 noon, bringing their trusty toolkit and a whole lot of kindness for their monthly hearing aid maintenance session.
Yes, it’s that time again when squeaky tubes, flat batteries, and muffled murmurs meet their match – all thanks to a trained volunteer from the fabulous charity, East Sussex Hearing, whose name I’m sworn not to mention, MI6-style. Services include free new tubes for your NHS hearing aids (remember, these little lifelines need swapping out every 4–6 months), a fresh stash of batteries, because even your ears deserve a recharge, and friendly, knowledgeable advice that doesn’t involve yelling or wildly miming the word “HELLO?” But best of all, did I mention, it’s completely free of charge. Though if you feel moved to drop a donation in the pot, you’ll be greeted with gratitude and probably a lovely smile.
However, this service is strictly for NHS hearing aids only. If you bought yours on the black market or found it on eBay, you may be politely redirected. So come on down, get your hearing back in tip-top shape, and maybe even catch a bit of juicy village gossip while you’re at it!
If you can’t make Friday, fear not! The same service also takes place at Pett Village Hall on the first Wednesday of every month, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Same charity, same great service, slightly different biscuits. So, whether it’s Friday in the village or Wednesday in Pett, come along and tune up those hearing aids, because “What?” is only funny the first dozen times.
FAIRLIGHT PARISH COUNCIL
The parish council held their monthly meeting earlier in the week; unfortunately, this was too late for inclusion in this item, but hopefully I’ll have the details for next week. However, if you’ve wandered around the village recently and thought, “Hmm, that bench looks suspiciously… upright,” you’re not imagining things. Yes, our trusty old seats and benches are being mended, replaced, or gently retired after years of loyal service (and the occasional seagull incident).
Even the bus stops are getting a make-over, soon to be sporting a fresh coat of paint and looking like they’re ready for a good night out. Rumour has it there are plans for more benches in more places. Sitters of the village, rejoice! It’s all part of the Parish Council’s top-secret mission to make the village look less “charmingly scruffy” and more “actually quite nice.” And leading this spruce-up operation is none other than Councillor Geoff Smith, who has somehow become the Patron Saint of Seating. Geoff, we salute you—from a newly refurbished bench, of course.
FAIRLIGHT VILLAGE PEOPLE
In a bold move to tackle road safety and crime at the grassroots level, the self-styled Village People (no relation to the disco band, though I’m told there’s a cowboy hat in circulation) gathered once again at their usual haunt, the legendary Smugglers Way Bench, at 10 am last Friday, as they do every Friday. Joined by representatives from the freshly-launched Fairlight Neighbourhood Watch Online, a Parish Councillor, and two Police Community Support Officers, the meeting quickly escalated from casual chat to full-blown community summit.
High on the agenda: road safety concerns affecting children, pedestrians, and residents with disabilities. Also discussed were neighbourhood nuisances such as cold callers, scams, phone-obsessed drivers, suspected drink-drivers, and the occasional aggressive contractor who may or may not be building a small castle without permission. Despite the serious topics, attendees couldn’t help but express their frustration at the current game of “Pass the Buck” being played by various authorities, especially when it comes to enforcing speed limits and ensuring basic neighbourhood policing. “We call one department, they refer us to another, who refers us to someone else who’s on annual leave until October,” said one exasperated local.
But never fear, this is Fairlight, and no problem goes unquacked. In the most creative protest this side of the A259, the Village People are planning to raise awareness through fancy-dress duck photo booths, drawing attention to a certain controversial local construction site. The PCSOs gave the feathered action a legal thumbs-up but requested to be notified, presumably to avoid panic among confused contractors.
So whether you’re quacking in protest, standing up to scam artists, or just want to say hello at the Smugglers Way Bench, one thing is clear: Fairlight’s Village People aren’t just watching—they’re waddling into action.
And finally….
This week, our sleepy seaside village was thrust into a David Attenborough-style nature documentary, as a large and lively pod of dolphins decided to grace our shores, right off Chanel Way, no less. Locals with sea views were treated to what one resident described as “better than anything on the telly, except maybe Bake Off.”
But amidst the oohs, ahhs, and frantic fumbling for smartphone cameras, one particularly excited villager made the bold claim that he had seen an Orca, yes, an actual killer whale, swimming among the dolphins.
“Clear as day!” insisted the spotter, who wishes to remain anonymous (but we all know it was Brian from No. 36 with the massive pair of binoculars). “Big dorsal fin, black and white, I’ve watched Free Willy, I know what I saw!”
However, marine experts and just about everyone else with access to Google have poured a small tidal wave of cold water on the sighting. The only known Orcas to regularly patrol British waters belong to a tiny, tight-knit group called the West Coast Community, and they tend to stick to the far reaches of northern Scotland. It’s a bit like claiming you saw a Highland cow walking down the high street. Possible? Maybe. Likely? Not unless it was wearing sunglasses and licking on a Cornetto!
Villager and part-time sceptic, coincidentally also from No. 36, offered her own theory: “More likely he saw one of those cheeky dolphins or a seal doing a dramatic impression. Happens every time Brian forgets to clean his glasses.”
Still, Orca or no Orca, the dolphins certainly brought some excitement to the coast. And for once, the village Facebook pages were ablaze with something other than bin complaints, unwanted bonfires and lost cats.
Wildlife experts have encouraged anyone with photos or videos to share them with local conservation groups, or at the very least, double-check them before claiming to have discovered Shamu’s long-lost cousin.
Until then, the official position remains: Dolphins, yes. Orcas, hmm… possibly, but only after Brian’s third glass of rosé.
Until next time, have a great week.
Bob Scattergood
fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com
20th June 2025
Fairlight’s flagship summer event, FAIRFEST, is set to return this Saturday, June 21st, bringing with it a packed day of live entertainment, activities, and community celebration. Taking place at Wood Field Recreation Ground from noon until dusk, this much-loved biennial festival will offer something for all ages. The day will be officially opened by Andrew Mier, the newly elected Fairlight Parish Councillor and Chair of Rother District Council. A highlight of the event will be a live performance by local favourites The Kytes, who will close out the festival in the late evening with their popular brand of music. Among the attractions on offer are the ever-popular dog show, miniature steam train rides, a bouncy castle, and have-a-go archery and tennis sessions. Local artisans will also showcase their wares at various craft stalls, while a wide selection of food and drink will be available throughout the day. The Pett Level Lifeboat team will be running a barbecue, and a fully stocked bar will be open from midday, featuring both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. New to this year’s offerings are kegs of real ale and cider, sure to be a hit with festival-goers. While many stalls now accept card payments, organisers suggest bringing along some cash for the raffle and donation buckets. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a blanket or chair, or simply enjoy dancing to the live music in the marquee. Admission and parking are free, courtesy of the Fairlight Parish Council, and with good weather forecast, organisers are expecting a strong turnout. Fairfest remains a highlight of the local calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike for a day that celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Fairlight community.
After Saturday’s excitement, those seeking a quieter pace are invited to turn their attention to CHURCH MATTERS, with the usual services taking place across the village. Holy Communion will be at St. Andrews at 11 am, and it’s worth making a note in your diary for next Saturday, the 28th, when they will be hosting a Celtish Concert – more details on that next week.
FAIRLIGHT PARISH COUNCIL will hold its next monthly meeting on Tuesday, 24th June at 7:00 pm in the Village Hall. While members of the public are welcome to attend, residents should be aware that this is a working council meeting. Proceedings are typically formal, though by all accounts, the tone has become somewhat more relaxed under the current leadership. For those unable to attend in person, there’s now a convenient alternative. All council meetings are recorded and uploaded to YouTube, usually within a couple of days. This allows residents to stay informed about local decisions and discussions at their convenience. Fairlight Parish Council continues to encourage public engagement and transparency in local governance.
BATTERY HILL residents and commuters are raising concerns over increasing traffic dangers caused by motorists ignoring temporary traffic lights near the Southern Water reservoir. Southern Water has been carrying out more frequent maintenance and top-up operations at the site, requiring the use of large tankers that need to park safely on the roadside. To manage traffic and ensure safety for all road users and workers, temporary traffic lights have been put in place during these operations. However, reports suggest a growing number of drivers are either unaware of—or deliberately ignoring—these lights. Several near misses have been reported in recent weeks, with cars reportedly speeding through red signals, putting themselves and others at serious risk. It’s getting dangerous,” said one local resident. “You see people flying through the red lights as if they’re not even there. It’s only a matter of time before there’s a serious accident.” Authorities and residents alike are urging drivers to pay attention and respect the temporary traffic measures. After all, the rules of the road still apply—even if the lights are temporary.
To help clear up any confusion, here’s a quick refresher:
Red—that’s the top one—means Stop.
Green—at the bottom—means Go.
Simple enough. You’d have thought so, wouldn’t you? With essential utility work continuing on Battery Hill, cooperation and caution from all road users are vital. Let’s not wait for a tragedy before taking a red light seriously.
On the subject of Southern water, residents of Lower Waites Lane were surprised last week when raw sewage overflowed from a section of the local water system, raising concerns following recent infrastructure improvements. The incident occurred despite extensive work aimed at preventing such occurrences. The cause, however, was quickly identified: a blockage caused by half a building brick and a small lump of concrete that had somehow entered the system. Southern Water responded promptly, removing the debris and restoring normal service. No lasting damage was reported, and the situation is now said to be under control. While the immediate issue has been resolved, questions remain about how such foreign objects ended up in the sewer system in the first place. All answers to fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com!
CLUB NEWS
FRIDAY LUNCH CLUB (MOPP) Co-ordinator Annette Holmes is away this week, but fear not—Jim Saphin will be stepping in for one week only. The club is delighted to welcome the well-known harpist Margaret Watson, who will be providing the entertainment. With her vast repertoire and engaging personality, Margaret performs and lectures across the UK. She’s certainly one you won’t want to miss! The fun kicks off at 10 am this Friday, 20th June (and every Friday), with refreshments, followed by a nutritious lunch, which this week includes sausage casserole, and for pud, jelly and ice cream.
ACTIVATE YOUTH CLUB. The Activate Management Team has announced that significant repairs and improvements are needed at the village clubhouse and is appealing to the local community for support. In response to growing concerns over the condition of the facilities, the team is inviting members, parents, friends, and residents, especially those with skills in areas such as building, carpentry, and general maintenance, to attend a community meeting. The meeting will be held at 7 pm on Wednesday, August 6th, at the clubhouse, giving attendees the chance to view the areas in need of attention and discuss how best to move forward. Anyone willing to offer assistance or advice is encouraged to attend the meeting. The team hopes that with enough local support, the project can get underway quickly and efficiently.
SPEAKER’S CORNER: After an impressive 76-year run, one of Fairlight’s longest-standing community clubs, Speaker’s Corner, has officially closed its doors. The club, originally founded as the Fairlight Literary Society, began with a focus on literature, books, and authors. Over the decades, it evolved into a much-loved local institution offering a wide range of talks on diverse and engaging topics. In the 1990s, the society was rebranded as Speaker’s Corner in an effort to modernize its image and broaden its appeal. However, despite the new name and the dedication of its organizers, the club struggled in recent years with declining membership. The decision to close was made reluctantly, after it became clear the club was no longer sustainable. Still, those who attended remember it fondly. As the village says goodbye to Speaker’s Corner, it does so with appreciation for the enrichment it brought to local life over the better part of a century.
FAIRLIGHT CHESS CLUB: As one club prepares to wind down, another is just beginning. Fairlight resident Steve Stewart is leading the charge to establish a new chess club in the village. Following a positive response to his recent call for interest, Steve is inviting residents to an informal meeting to discuss the club’s formation. The meeting will take place tomorrow, Saturday 21st, at 4 pm in the Fairlight Village Hall. All are welcome to attend, regardless of experience level. “It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert or have never played before,” Steve said. “We all have to start somewhere, so come along and have a chat.” The initiative aims to bring together chess enthusiasts of all ages in a relaxed, inclusive environment, with hopes of building a regular community event.
TLC CONTINUES WITH STYLE: Meanwhile, the Tuesday Ladies Club (TLC) continues to enjoy a full calendar of events. Members recently gathered for a delightful afternoon tea at the Fairlight Lodge Hotel. Earlier this week, their monthly meeting featured a compelling talk by Angela Hawksley, titled Living Law. The TLC’s next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 15th, in the village hall at 2:15 pm, featuring guest speaker Peter Allen with a presentation entitled Watching the Detectives. Visitors are warmly invited to attend for a small fee of £3. Sounds like a bargain to me!
GARDENING CLUB: The Fairlight Gardening Club also remains in full bloom. At their recent gathering, popular local polymath Chris O’Donoghue returned to give a fascinating talk on designing and entering gardens in the Chelsea Flower Show. His insights into the planning, creativity, and collaboration involved were met with admiration, and he proudly shared news of his Silver Gilt award. The club’s next outing is scheduled for Monday, July 7th, with a visit to the Friary Gardeners Plant Nursery, a vibrant, community-based social enterprise that supports adults with learning disabilities and autism.
With so many community events on the horizon, it’s clear that Fairlight’s village spirit remains as strong as ever. Whether you’re a chess player, gardening enthusiast, or simply enjoy a good afternoon tea, there’s something for everyone in our wonderful village.
More updates next Friday. Until then, enjoy your weekend!
Bob Scattergood
fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com
13th June 2025
Welcome to a new chapter of the Fairlight Village Voice. Keith Pollard has finally retired after an extraordinary 750 issues over 15 years. I’m sure everyone in the village joins me in thanking Keith for his incredible contribution and wishing him all the very best in his well-earned retirement. Keith’s shoes are certainly big ones to fill, but it’s a real privilege to continue the tradition. I’ll do my best to keep our community informed and connected. For those who don’t know me, I’m Bob Scattergood. I have no qualifications for this role other than having lived in Fairlight for nearly 12 years. Having recently joined “Club 70,” I’ve concluded that there’s nowhere I’d rather be than right here in this wonderful village.
So, let’s get going!
PARISH COUNCIL WELCOMES RETURNING MEMBER
In local governance news, Andrew Mier has been elected to the Fairlight Parish Council, filling the seat left vacant by the resignation of Steven Baker earlier this year. A public vote had been scheduled for June 26th, but since Andrew was the only candidate to step forward by the deadline, no election was necessary. He is therefore duly elected. Andrew brings valuable prior council experience and a strong dedication to village matters. We wish him every success in the role.
CHURCH LIFE – AND A RUMOUR LAID TO REST
St Andrew’s will hold its regular Sunday morning service at 11 am, while St Peter’s “Café Refresh” opens its doors on Thursday 19th from 10:30 am to 12 noon — offering coffee, home-made cakes, and friendly conversation. Everyone is welcome. Also at St Peter’s is the Teddies Toddler Group. This is held every Tuesday during school term, between 10:30 and 12 noon. Meanwhile, rumours about Revd. Sandi Wickens leaving the parish have been firmly laid to rest. “We love it here and have no plans to move,” she confirmed. Clear enough — and very good to hear.
FAIRFEST RETURNS TO ONE-DAY FORMAT – JUNE 21st
One of Fairlight’s flagship events, Fairfest, is back on Saturday, 21st June, at the Wood Field recreation ground. After evolving into a weekend-long celebration in recent years, this year’s event returns to its original one-day format – a classic community gathering. Festivities kick off at noon, featuring favourites like the dog show, archery, steam train rides, bouncy castle, arts & crafts stalls, a bar and BBQ, and much more. Live music begins at 6 pm, headlined by local favourites, The Kytes. Thanks to a team of tireless local volunteers, the event remains free to attend. More info: Fairfest Facebook Event
OPEN GARDENS: JULY 12th –13th
Another gem in the summer calendar is Open Gardens, taking place over the weekend of 12th –13th July, showcasing 19 private gardens across the village. Tickets are now on sale from MOPP, DISH, Hair Base, Gems Garden Centre, or by contacting: fairlightopengardens@gmail.com. More details coming soon — watch this space!
On a related note, one of the most active threads on village social media this week has been gardening! Yes, it turns out that “to mow or not to mow” and “to re-wild or to cultivate” are surprisingly hot and controversial topics. Who knew such a genteel pastime could spark such passionate debate? But then again, it’s social media — and unfortunately, Fairlight is not immune.
CLUB & COMMUNITY NEWS The Activate group is seeking bakers and helpers for their Fairfest stall. If you can contribute, contact: familyhatch1@gmail.com
A new chess group is in the process of being set up by Steve Stewart. Interested players should email m0ssr@aol.com or call Steve on 07581 305310.
Not into chess? The Cove pub is hosting a quiz night on Tuesday, 17th June at 7 pm — a classic pub quiz with a twist. Spaces fill quickly, so book ahead at info@thecovefairlight.co.uk.
The Fairlight Players are already planning their next production, Macbeth – no, not that one! This is The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswoman’s Guild Dramatic production. Auditions will take place on July 17th. If you fancy your chances on treading the boards, email them at: fairlightplayers.org.uk.
FAIRLIGHT FRIDAY LUNCH CLUB (MOPP)
There’s both sad news and good news at MOPP this week. The group recently received generous support from the Fairlight Residents Association, Hastings Lions, and the Parish Council. Sadly, we also mark the passing of long-time member and former membership secretary, Felicity Bullock, who will be fondly remembered by all. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her friends and family. Linda Bancroft will now take over the role of membership secretary. This week’s menu? Steak pie with baby potatoes, followed by jam roly-poly — hopefully with custard! (As a northerner, I believe roly-poly without custard is sacrilege. It’s like having chips without gravy!). The morning will also feature a talk from James Mountford of Gaby Hardwicke on wills and power of attorney.
HIDDEN GEM: FAIRLIGHT’S COMMUNITY WEBSITE
If you’re unsure where to find up-to-date local information on events, clubs, or contacts, try the Fairlight Focus website: https://fairlight.org.uk Despite being an excellent and comprehensive resource, it remains surprisingly underused. Give it a try — you may find exactly what you’re looking for.
If you’d like to contribute, share an event, or offer feedback, please get in touch: fairlightvillagevoice@gmail.com
Until next time, have a great week!