Three months after the easing of Covid restrictions and return to near-normal daily routines, the Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Paul Holbrook has addressed the town’s residents and calls on everyone to support local businesses in the run-up to Christmas.
“There are many positives which have come about in recent months, including the reopening of society with a new and more optimistic outlook for us – and a recovery from the pandemic that continues to put us back on track both socially and economically. This itself has been a major step forward in the return to ‘normality’ in our lives!
But, as we move further forward in the fight against Covid-19, we still have some way to go – especially during the autumn and forthcoming winter months – and we should all continue to take personal responsibility when it comes to protecting ourselves from the virus and having concern for others around you.
Autumn and the build-up to Christmas has crept up on us more quickly than normal this year it seems, and circumstances have meant that many local businesses have faced substantial challenges since reopening in the summer due to the pandemic. As we approach the festive season, I believe it is crucial that we all show our support for local shops, traders and services to help them after what has been a difficult and challenging year.
The way we need to show our support in the coming weeks and months is simple. Shop locally and help businesses through the remainder of the pandemic and the run-up to Christmas, which for many businesses is the busiest time of year for them.
I know many traders have come out of the pandemic and associated extended closure and managed to get back on their feet successfully. However, there are some which remain close to the edge, and a few more people buying their products or services could make a huge difference. So, now is the time to support our local shops, businesses and traders.
Covid-19 has had a considerable impact on everyone and some of the more hard-hit local, independent businesses are still fighting for survival.
Staying local and shopping local rather than out of town makes Christmas shopping easier, reduces the travel involved in the shopping trip and ultimately results in a businesses or enterprise being supported – and the local economy will benefit in the process, boosting the town during these challenging times.
Speaking of Christmas, families from across Hailsham and surrounding villages are being urged to join in the town’s festivities on Friday 26th November, when the town will officially switch on its Christmas lights – restrictions permitting of course.
After missing out on the big event last year due to Covid restrictions in place at the time, Hailsham is gearing up for a spectacular show in Vicarage Field featuring festive entertainment in addition to the big switch-on, which will see the town centre transformed into a winter wonderland of twinkling Christmas lights.
Santa will be handing out free sweets to children at the event as usual (courtesy of Hailsham Rotary Club) and pupils from Hailsham Community College and Grovelands Community Primary School will be carol singing prior to the official switch-on of the lights, which will take place at 6pm.
If that was not enough, there will be festive refreshments on sale including candy floss (provided by Hailsham Lions), a special appearance for the children from Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Hailsham FM will be playing Christmas music throughout the event. Hailsham Parish Church will be open during the event to warmly welcome visitors after the switch-on, serving free marshmallows and hot beverages.
The switch-on event is about bringing the community together to celebrate the countdown to Christmas with their friends and family, and we are hoping that lots of people will come along, take part and join in the fun.
Thank you and stay safe everyone.”
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk