Hailsham’s Community Organisations Thanked by the Town Mayor

The Mayor of Hailsham has said that his time in office since May 2025 has reinforced his belief that the town has an exceptionally strong sense of community spirit.

Cllr Chris Bryant reflected on the many civic engagements he has attended since being elected Town Mayor, highlighting the opportunity these events have provided to meet representatives from a wide range of community groups and voluntary organisations across Hailsham.

“The community and voluntary sector play a vital role in Hailsham, meeting a wide range of needs within our local community,” said Cllr Bryant. “Having such a vibrant and active sector brings many benefits to the town – from providing essential services to those in need, to offering volunteering opportunities that help people develop life skills, as well as creating leisure and social activities that encourage residents to get involved in their community.”

Cllr Bryant added that it has been an honour and privilege to be a guest at numerous civic events organised by local community and voluntary organisations during his mayoral tenure so far.

“Through attending these engagements, I have seen first-hand just how strong Hailsham’s community spirit really is. I am continually impressed by the dedication of the volunteers who help to run these organisations. There are many unsung heroes whose commitment underpins successful fundraising events and the delivery of vital services in our town.”

He paid tribute to a number of local organisations, including Hailsham Bonfire Society, Hailsham Choral Society, the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch, Hailsham Photographic Society, Hailsham Festival Committee, Hailsham Railway Club and the Hailsham & District Twinning Association just to name a few, all of which work tirelessly to serve the community and promote the town and often without the recognition they deserve.

Cllr Bryant also highlighted the work of Environment Hailsham, praising its efforts to enhance the appearance of the town and maintaining the town’s floral and horticultural displays: “Taking pride in Hailsham’s appearance comes naturally to its residents, and Environment Hailsham plays a key role in helping to maintain this. Their work in establishing and caring for floral planters, flower beds and hanging baskets adds greatly to the town’s character and can be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike.”

The Mayor also commended Cuckmere Buses, a volunteer-run community transport service that continues to provide an outstanding level of service: “Supplementary transport links such as these are essential for many people in Hailsham and surrounding villages, particularly older residents. It is wonderful to see how well-used this service remains, and the volunteer drivers deserve real praise for the time and effort they dedicate to keeping it running.”

Reflecting on attending the Hailsham Lions’ Charter Lunch, Cllr Bryant praised the charity’s long-standing commitment to supporting those most in need: “The Lions Club has helped countless individuals and families over the years. Their goal of assisting those who cannot help themselves is admirable, and everyone involved in their fundraising and charitable work deserves sincere thanks and recognition.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the staff and volunteers at the Charles Hunt Centre, noting their crucial role in supporting older people in the community: “Much of the Centre’s success is down to the enthusiasm and commitment of its volunteers, who deliver vital services that make a real difference to the lives of older residents. These are ordinary people doing extraordinary work.”

In addition, Cllr Bryant thanked Hailsham Youth Service for its long-standing contribution to the town, providing young people with safe, engaging activities outside of school hours: “For 26 years, Hailsham Youth Service has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for local young people through recreation, personal and social development, and access to information and advice. Its relocation to larger premises in Western Road in 2024 demonstrates the success of the service and the opportunities that exist for partnership working to support young people in new and innovative ways.”

In closing, the Mayor thanked residents, fellow councillors and the wider community for placing their trust in him: “I am grateful to everyone who has given me the opportunity to serve as Town Mayor and to meet so many inspiring community groups and volunteers. A great deal can be achieved in Hailsham, and I look forward to continuing to meet and support these organisations for the remainder of my term.”

“Hailsham is a special place, and I will work hard to ensure that it remains so.”