Railway Club Celebrates a Year of Connection in Hailsham

Hailsham’s Railway Club, a weekly social group for residents aged 55 and over, marked its first anniversary today [Wednesday 28 January], celebrating a year of success and growing community engagement.

The anniversary event was attended by local residents, project organisers Cllrs Anne Marie Ricketts and Anne Blake-Coggins, and special guests including the Town Mayor and Deputy Mayor Cllrs Chris Bryant and Colin Mitchell, town councillor Glynn White and the Chair of Wealden District Council Cllr Gavin Blake-Coggins.

Established to support older residents throughout the year, the Railway Club provides opportunities for social interaction, shared activities and community support, helping to reduce social isolation and enhance wellbeing.

The club has been made possible through local grants and community donations, alongside the provision of a venue by Hailsham Town Council at the Station Youth Centre in Western Road. Town councillors also play an active role in organising and overseeing the club’s activities.

Sessions take place every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm and are open to anyone aged 55 or over looking for companionship, conversation or a friendly space to spend time. Refreshments, including tea, coffee and snacks, are provided, and members are encouraged to bring board games, books, jigsaw puzzles and other activities.

Since its launch, the Railway Club has hosted a wide range of events, including quizzes, barbecues, teddy bear picnics, photo competitions and singalong film screenings. The club has also welcomed guest speakers from local organisations such as the Hailsham & District Twinning Association, the community policing team, Heathfield Auction House, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, forensic investigation teams and St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

The Railway Club is fully inclusive and accessible, with facilities suitable for wheelchair users and mobility scooters. Attendance is free, although voluntary donations towards refreshments are welcomed.

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, co-organiser, said: “The Railway Club shows how the Town Council can support residents in a practical and meaningful way throughout the year. Providing the venue, supporting the funding and enabling councillors to be directly involved ensures the club offers a safe, welcoming space for people to socialise, enjoy activities and build friendships.”

Cllr Anne Blake-Coggins, project co-organiser, added: “The Railway Club has become a valued part of our community in its first year. It’s been wonderful to see residents come together, build friendships and participate in a wide range of activities. The Town Council’s support by way of providing a suitable venue for sessions has been key to making this project such a success.”

The Railway Club has quickly become an important resource for Hailsham’s older residents, and organisers look forward to its continued success in years to come.