Inaugural Prom in the Park Event Marks Official Lighting of New Beacon

Hailsham Town Council is delighted to announce the successful official opening of the town’s new beacon at Western Road Recreation Ground, unveiled during the inaugural Prom in the Park event on Sunday [7 June].

The ceremony formed the centrepiece of a highly successful afternoon of community celebration, which saw residents of all ages come together to enjoy live music, family entertainment and fundraising in support of St Wilfrid’s Hospice. With strong attendance from across the community, the event marked the successful launch of what councillors hope will become a popular annual fixture in the town’s events calendar.

Families, friends and neighbours gathered throughout the afternoon to enjoy performances from Warbleton Brass Band, alongside free entertainment including close-up magic, balloon modelling and a traditional Punch and Judy show. Hailsham FM provided music and commentary throughout the event, helping to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

The official unveiling of the beacon took place at 4pm and featured a costumed procession led by members of Hailsham Bonfire Society, culminating in the ceremonial lighting of the beacon. The moment was witnessed by residents attending the event and marked the completion of a project that has been several years in development.

The newly installed beacon now stands as a permanent feature at Western Road Recreation Ground and is expected to play an important role in civic commemorations, national celebrations and community events for many years to come.

The beacon consists of a striking tall structure with a brazier-style top and has been specifically designed to support a range of public events. A permanent basket has been incorporated into the design, enabling Hailsham Bonfire Society to continue using the site as part of its annual Guy Fawkes celebrations and other community activities.

The project was funded through the Town Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is used to deliver improvements that benefit the wider community.

As part of the planning process, local sports clubs based at Western Road Recreation Ground were consulted to ensure the beacon’s location complemented existing facilities and activities within the park.

Councillor Mary Laxton said: “Sunday was a wonderful day for Hailsham. Not only were we able to officially unveil the town’s new beacon, but we also saw the launch of a fantastic new community event which brought together residents of all ages in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.”

“The turnout for Prom in the Park was extremely encouraging and the atmosphere throughout the afternoon was excellent. Seeing different generations and families enjoying the entertainment, supporting St Wilfrid’s Hospice and gathering to witness the beacon lighting ceremony demonstrated exactly what community events should be about. We hope both the beacon and Prom in the Park will become important parts of Hailsham’s future traditions.”

“I’d like to thank Richard and Steve for all their hard work setting up and taking down the gazebos on the day…”

The idea for the beacon was first proposed three years ago by town councillor and Honorary Vice President of Hailsham Bonfire Society, Dave Chapman, who has worked closely with partners throughout the planning and installation process.

Councillor Chapman said: “Seeing the beacon officially unveiled and lit for the first time was a proud moment. Hailsham Bonfire Society’s annual procession and fireworks display continues to grow in popularity, and this new facility demonstrates the Town Council’s commitment to supporting community traditions and recognising the contribution made by our volunteers.”

“The beacon will help strengthen future celebrations and provide a focal point for events that bring residents together, while ensuring Hailsham can continue to build on its proud community spirit for years to come. We invite other organisations such as morris and maypole dancers to use the beacon in any future May Day celebrations.”

Alongside celebrating the unveiling of the beacon, the event also raised valuable funds for St Wilfrid’s Hospice, with donations collected during the afternoon supporting the charity’s essential end-of-life care services for local people and their families.

The Town Council would like to thank Hailsham Bonfire Society, Hailsham FM, Warbleton Brass Band, St Wilfrid’s Hospice, event volunteers and all those who contributed to the success of the day.

Following the positive response from residents, the Town Council is already looking at opportunities to build on the success of the inaugural Prom in the Park event. Councillors hope the afternoon’s combination of live music, family entertainment, charitable fundraising and civic celebration will establish the event as a regular feature of Hailsham’s summer calendar, with the new beacon serving as a lasting symbol of civic pride for generations to come.