Hurst Life

Hurstpierpoint's St Lawrence Fair

Welcome to Hurst Life’s St Lawrence Fair event page. Here you will find our most recent information for everything regarding the fair.

Since the 14th century, the village of Hurstpierpoint has celebrated the Feast of St Lawrence with a village fair. The fair is one of the oldest in the United Kingdom.

See also, St Lawrence Fair

We can confirm that fair day will be Saturday 4th July.

St Lawrence Fair news for 2026

By Paul Melling

Hello Hurstpierpoint, greetings from the St Lawrence Fair committee. We trust you had an enjoyable and restful festive period. As I write this, Hurstpierpoint freezes in subzero temperatures with perhaps a little snow forecast. The warmth of Fair weekend seems a long time away, but your committee and team of volunteers are busy preparing for this year’s fair. We can confirm that fair day will be Saturday 4th July.

The theme for this year’s fair will be locked in soon. If you have any suggestions, we’d love to hear them, or any comments, ideas, feedback etc. We really need some more help and are looking for people to volunteer in the following roles:
• Health and Safety – join the committee and co-ordinate these activities. H&S experience needed
• Social Media co-ordinator – join the committee to organise our social media activities; we have volunteers to assist with publishing.
• Fun Run co-lead – no experience needed, just backup our fun run lead
• Procession co-lead – no experience needed, just backup our procession lead

Please contact us if you can help, are curious about what is involved, or just want to help out on anything else at stlawrencefair@gmail.com.

Keep a look out for more information on our quiz night being held on Friday 6th February. Tickets are £12.50 per person and include either meat or veggie chilli; teams of up to eight people.

Details of this and future fundraising activities will be circulated on social media, on our website and more traditional methods. Please support us; we look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the run up to and over Fair weekend.

Japour Gym moves onto Hurst High Street

Jude Poyner, who has been running his gym from the back of Fuel for the last three years, has moved his business to the High Street, opposite South Avenue. Jude started as a personal trainer five years ago and his first job was at a local PureGym, where he began building a steady client base. “After just four months, I felt a pull to create something of my own. I started looking for a space to rent, and by pure luck, I stumbled across Hurstpierpoint—a village I hadn’t even heard of before that day. Excited, I made enquiries about a small space inside a coffee shop on the High Street.”

Slowly but surely, he was able to double his client base and two years ago, he introduced group classes, which welcomed people of every age and ability. “I’ve been part of the Hurstpierpoint community for three years now, and every year I feel more connected and more grateful to be here. It genuinely feels like home.”

Jude needed bigger premises and when the space vacated by the funeral directors became available, he put in a bid, but was beaten to it and reluctantly considered moving to Burgess Hill or Hassocks. “It didn’t feel right—I loved the Hurst community too much. Just as we were about to put in an offer elsewhere, the phone rang. The first bidder for the Hurst property had pulled out. They asked if I wanted to take it on. Without hesitation, I said yes. From that moment, I focused on preparation and taking the time to get the new space looking exactly how it should.”

For more information go to www.japourgym.co.uk

Recycle ink cartridges in Hurstpierpoint

By Colin McFarlin

You may know me best for my articles on recycling at the back of this magazine. As you know, I finish my articles by inviting readers to send to me their recycling questions. And you do, lots of them.

Wanda wrote to me and asked: “Where can I recycle printer ink cartridges locally?”
I had to tell her that the nearest recycling point was in Haywards Heath, but if she would like to set up a local recycling point, I would help her to do it.

Well, thanks to Wanda and the wonderful staff at The Village Centre in Trinity Road, they agreed to host a collection box, an excellent central point and right opposite the car park.

Recently, I visited The Village Centre with Wanda and set up the collection box that is now open and looking forward to receiving, for recycling, your used and your unwanted printer cartridges. We can accept compatible cartridges as well as genuine cartridges - any make.

We cannot accept laser printer cartridges; you still need to take them to the recycling centre (‘The Tip’) in Burgess Hill. Do not throw your printer cartridges used or unwanted in the bin, pop them into the recycling box at the Village Centre reception.

Santa Sunday in Hurstpierpoint

Welcome to Hurst Life’s Santa Sunday event page. Here you will find our most recent information for everything about the event.

A magical Christmas Market in the heart of Hurstpierpoint! Join us for a festive celebration filled with live music, delicious treats, and plenty of Christmas shopping. Bring the family along for fun kids’ activities, exciting fairground rides, and a chance to meet Father Christmas himself! Get into the holiday spirit with us and make unforgettable memories.

See also, Hurst’s Secret Santa

News about 2026’s Santa Sunday will appear here as soon as we hear it!

Santa Sunday in Hurstpierpoint

The heart of Hurstpierpoint will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland of festive fun as Hurst Santa Sunday returns on Sunday 7th December, from 12.30 to 4.30 pm.

This much-loved community celebration brings together families, friends, and visitors for an afternoon packed with Christmas magic, shopping, food, music and cheer, as well as free fun for the kids. Whether you come for the sparkle, the songs, or the smiles, Santa Sunday is the perfect way to start the festive season.

Shop local and support our village businesses Hurstpierpoint High Street will be closed to traffic, but alive with festive spirit as local shops open their doors with special offers, tastings and Christmas treats. Alongside them, a bustling Christmas market will line the streets, offering beautifully crafted gifts, decorations, and handmade delights — perfect for stocking fillers and unique presents.
By browsing the stalls and supporting our independent retailers, you’re helping to keep our high street thriving at the heart of our community.

Eat, drink and be merry
Come hungry! From steaming cups of mulled wine and hot chocolate to mince pies, roast chestnuts and festive street food, there’s something to tempt every palate. Local pubs, cafés and restaurants will also be serving special winter menus — perfect for warming up after enjoying the festivities. Whether it’s a family meal, a snack on the go, or a festive drink with friends, the flavours of Christmas await.

Music, merriment and magic
The streets will be filled with music as local choirs, school groups and musicians bring the sound of Christmas to life. Expect traditional carols, upbeat festive tunes and plenty of sing-along moments to lift your spirits.
For the little ones, the highlight of the day will be a visit from Santa himself, with festive activities including free face painting and other surprises dotted throughout the afternoon.

A huge thank you
Events like Hurst Santa Sunday wouldn’t be possible without the generosity and hard work of so many. A special thank-you goes to our headline sponsor, PSP Homes. We also gratefully acknowledge our other valued sponsors:
• Hurstpierpoint Charity Shop
• Hurstpierpoint College |
• Hurstpierpoint & Sayers Common Parish Council
• The Hurstpierpoint Society
• Freeman Brothers
• Fabulous Floors
• Jamie Stafford Bathrooms

We extend heartfelt thanks to the Santa Sunday Organising Committee and to the countless volunteers who give their time and energy each year to make this event such a success. Your commitment and community spirit are what make Santa Sunday truly special.

Churches of Hurstpierpoint & Sayers Common Christmas services

Welcome to Hurst Life’s churches of Hurspierpoint & Sayers Common Christmas services event page. Here you will find our most recent information for everything Christmas in our churches.

See also, Holy Trinity Hurstpierpoint, The parish of Albourne, Sayers Common and Twineham, Good News Church Hurstpierpoint

Holy Trinity Parish Church


High Street, Hurstpierpoint, BN6 9TS
www.holytrinityhurst.org

Wednesday 3rd December
7.30pm Mothers’ Union Advent Evening with carols, readings, mulled wine and mince pies. Tickets available from Judy Leech 01273 833954

Sunday 14th December
2.30-4.30pm - Family Christmas Crafts. Crafts and activities for pre-school & primary aged children. Book tickets at the website above
7pm - Contemporary Carols. A modern take on traditional carols with a live band and a short Christmas message.

Sunday 21st December
6pm - Candlelit Carol Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies

Christmas Eve
3pm & 4.30pm - Crib Services. A lively services for all ages. Children are invited to dress as a favourite nativity character
11.30pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day
8am - Christmas Communion – a simple said service
10am - Christmas Family Communion. A service for all the family

Good News Church


149 High Street, Hurstpierpoint, BN6 9PU www.goodnewshurst.co.uk

Sunday 21st December
3.30pm - Carols and Cakes – an informal carol service

Christmas Day
10am - Christmas Day Service - Come and celebrate with us our Saviour’s birth

The Parish of Albourne, Sayers Common and Twineham


ascat.ad@yahoo.com – You can also find us on www.achurchnearyou.com

Sunday 21st December
6pm - Nine Lessons and Carols at St Bartholomew’s, Albourne

Monday 22nd December
6pm - Carol Service at Christ Church, Sayers Common

Christmas Eve
4pm - Crib Service (with live animals) at St Peter’s, Twineham
8pm - Midnight Mass at St Bartholomew’s, Albourne

Christmas Day
10am - Parish Eucharist at Christ Church, Sayers Common

HURSTfolk

Welcome to Hurst Life’s HURSTfolk event page. Here you will find our most recent information for everything regarding the festival.

HURSTfolk is the brainchild of Hurstpierpoint resident, Debbie Clare. Debbie is drawing upon her extensive live music career to weave together this community-focused weekend of live music performances.

See also, HURSTfolk

HURSTfolk will be taking a break in 2026 to reflect properly on how and where to take things in future years, though we may announce a few one-off HURSTfolk. events during the year.

HURSTfolk

Hurstpierpoint at its absolute best

By Debbie Clare, Festival Director
This year’s HURSTfolk was an immense mountain of hard work and preparation -months of planning, spreadsheets, emails, and logistics - but the weekend itself ran beautifully smoothly and was everything I’d hoped it would be. The high street was absolutely buzzing from morning till night, the restaurants were full, and every venue looked its absolute best.
We had such a huge variety of shows across the weekend - from heavy rock to folk, pop, and blues - and it was brilliant to see capacity and near-capacity audiences at almost every event. There was such a warm atmosphere everywhere you went, and a real sense that people were proud to be part of something special happening right here in the village.
I’m so grateful to the incredible people working across all of the venues, and to my amazing crew, who were at their absolute best all weekend. It was a huge team effort from a group of dedicated professionals who went above and beyond to make everything run so smoothly.
Over 500 people bought tickets, with another 500 attending the free events, and it felt like a real celebration of the talent, energy, and creativity that our community is full of, as well as a chance to welcome new faces from outside the area discovering Hurst and its venues for the first time.
HURSTfolk will be taking a break in 2026 to reflect properly on how and where to take things in future years, though we may announce a few one-off HURSTfolk. events during the year. Thank you so much to everyone who supported and celebrated with us.

Hurst Festival

Welcome to Hurst Life’s Hurst Festival event page. Here you will find our most recent information for the two week September festival.

A registered charity, Hurst Festival was conceived in 2004 by a merry band of friends over dinner, impressed by the wealth of talent in our village. It has one aim; to provide people with two weeks of enjoyment in September during which we can meet each other, experience something new and feel connected to our community.

See also, Hurst Festival

Festival looking to fill roles

By Michel Olszewski, Chair of Trustees
Following another successful year, Hurst Festival is in the process of putting together the programme for 2026, our 22nd year. Our original objectives remain the same: a Festival planned by the community for the whole of the community and we are actively seeking support and ideas from everyone. Join us in this exciting, stimulating and enjoyable journey by considering joining us in any of the following roles:
Trustees - Hurst Festival is a registered Charity and we are currently seeking applications for new trustees. Being a Trustee is a stimulating and rewarding role and you would be joining a group of local, committed and very friendly people. If you are interested or want to hear more, please contact Michel on michelhurst3@gmail.com.
Festival committee - the Festival is planned and run by an enthusiastic and active committee. Susan, our Festival manager would love to hear from you if you would like to consider joining or would like to hear more about this enjoyable and friendly team. Contact Susan at manager@hurstfestival.org.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued support, encouragement and positive feedback.

Albourne Village Show success!

By Lynne Bannon

What a great day! Held on Saturday 6th September, the Albourne show was a huge success, blessed with sunshine and an incredible turnout from the community. Running from 2pm until 10pm, the afternoon and evening were filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of local talent. Highlights from the day:
Flower Show – Stunning entries, from the best single stem to colourful arrangements, alongside fierce (but friendly!) competition in categories such as flapjacks, crafts, fruit, vegetables, and of course…the longest runner bean!
Dog Show – Sponsored by Pets at Home, Burgess Hill, our four-legged friends strutted their stuff and wagged their way to well-deserved prizes.
Craft Fair – Beautiful handmade creations that showcased the skills of our local makers.
Classic Cars – From a 1960s Jaguar, a 1930s Rolls to a Caterham & a 2CV there was a classic car for every taste on display.
Live Music – Fabulous bands kept the atmosphere buzzing and everyone dancing throughout the afternoon and into the evening especially with the Stanmer Bands fabulous Jukebox experience.
The Hop Tub – Did a brilliant job of keeping everyone refreshed with their delicious local beers and spirits.
Kids Activities – loads of games and fun as well as a chance to decorate a life-size horse.
Community Stalls & local businesses – Including the church stall & tombola, were a hit with everyone.

The show team were thrilled to see even more visitors than last year – a true testament to the wonderful spirit of our community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, sponsored and supported the event. Now, time for a well-earned rest…before we do it all again on Saturday 5th September 2026!

Gearing up for the Albourne Village Show!

By Lynne Bannon

The much-loved Albourne Village Show is just around the corner on Saturday 6th September, and this year’s celebration promises to be the biggest yet, with organisers announcing an even broader lineup of entertainment, competitions and local flavour for the community to enjoy.

Running from 2pm to 10pm at the Albourne Recreational Ground, the show is a celebration of village life with a vibrant mix of live music, local food and drink, family-friendly competitions and artisan stalls.
Returning highlights include the everpopular dog show, craft tent, and photography competition, with new twists and a few surprises in store.

This year (weather permitting) there will also be a display of classic and interesting cars — just for fun, no prizes — so if you’d like to bring yours along, send us a message! The local fire brigade will also be visiting again, giving children (and quite a few adults!) the chance to climb aboard and explore their fire engine. Attendees can look forward to performances from local favourites The Kites, The Tar Babies and The Stanmer Band, alongside an Open Mic slot for emerging talent. Food lovers will find even more to feast on this year, with The Hop Tub from Hurstpierpoint returning to run the bar and an expanded food van lineup showcasing Sussex’s best.

The show’s traditional flower and produce competition continues to grow, so make sure you bring your entries in from the start of the show. The categories include best cake, best jam, recycled crafts, and the ever-hilarious funniest vegetable – to find a list of all the categories, visit our Facebook page.

There’s already some stiff competition hotting up for the best local photographs, and some fabulous raffle prizes have been secured, from Rushfields, South Downs Nursery, Turn and Fire and many others — you’ll need to be in it (and at it) to win it! Now a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), the Albourne Village Show proudly reinvests all profits into local causes and future events. With support from local sponsors Avtrade, Hurst College, Ernest Doe and more, the show is set to be a standout event on the Mid Sussex summer calendar. All in all, it’ll be a fantastic afternoon and evening — so come along from 2pm onwards to enjoy the fun!

Eddy Temple-Morris; from Hurst to broadcasting and beyond

This month, Mike met up with the Virgin Radio DJ to hear all about his life in broadcasting and beyond.

By Mike Thatcher

I felt a movie scene was being described to me as Eddy recalled sitting in front of his housemaster at school. “He slowly and deliberately tore up my UCCA form, saying ‘I’ve talked to your father - you’re not going to art college, you’re going to university.’ My father was a wonderful Member of Parliament and great with strangers, but any kindness did not trickle down to me.” Unlike in my projected movie, it was not the huge crossroads moment in his life; it merely delayed him getting to where he wanted to be, rather than derailing him. He dropped out of university in London at the first opportunity and discovered club culture: Boyclub, KitKat Club, Batcave, Heaven, Alice in Wonderland. “I moved in with a couple of DJs and the rest is history.”

He had led a double life growing up; idyllic summers back in Iran, where his great uncle was Prime Minister and whose home is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, coupled with the tough reality of being a mixed-race boy in a late 70s school in the UK. He has ADHD and the bullying was not confined to his contemporaries: “Once, I had the temerity to put my hand up in class as I didn’t understand something, only for the teacher to announce I was ‘a stupid, stupid boy.’ Naturally, the rest of the class all laughed.”

Like many in his situation, he disappeared into music and he ended up with a record collection, and crucially, music knowledge. The kids who had thrown chairs at him ended up being his friends; he was telling them who the cool bands were. The first record he bought was Rattus Norvegicus by The Stranglers. I asked if this was a political or rebellious statement. “No, it was probably cheap!” Japan was the first band that was ‘his,’ the one he fell in love with to the exclusion of others.

Eddy has had three careers (with one, he hopes, yet to unfold): musician, DJ and TV presenter. As a producer at Radio 1, he used his musical skills to create their jingles, moving it from ‘the hairy cornflake station’ into the era of Chris Evans and Mary Anne Hobbs. When the jingles won awards, he was headhunted by MTV, which was launching in the UK. With no real desire to be in front of the camera, he didn’t prepare anything for the audition. “This made me all the more appealing to them! The screentest went all the way up to the worldwide boss of MTV who loved it and I was told to resign from my job.” His friend and boss Matthew Bannister at the BBC told him to go for it, saying: ‘I look forward to welcoming you back into this building at a vastly inflated salary!’

To read Eddy’s full story, please pick up a copy of July’s Hurst Life today and turn to page 22.

Mid Sussex District Council celebrates Mid Sussex Applause Awards

Celebration for the unsung heroes of Mid Sussex

Unsung heroes were celebrated at the Mid Sussex Applauds Awards 2025 - an annual event that recognises those people who go the extra mile for their community. More than 100 people attended a special ceremony that was organised by Mid Sussex District Council and held at the South of England Showground, Ardingly. Hosted by Cllr Rodney Jackson, Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council, and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Timothy Fooks, there were 37 individuals, groups or businesses who were recognised for their contribution to the district.

These included nine winners, 10 highly commended and 18 commended nominees. Sponsors of the awards were: Community People, Glendale, Jobs Go Public, Orchards Shopping Centre, Places Leisure, City Science, MUFG and Chroma Vision. For a list of all winners, including those highly commended and commended, visit www.midsussexapplauds.co.uk

To see our showcase of winners and to read the full article, please click the images to enlarge them or pick up your copy of July’s Hurst Life.

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