News

Warm your heart with this remarkable story of friendship between a robin and a gardener, as told to Sara Whatley

A blend of antiques, vivid colours and a bohemian vibe characterise this striking Georgian town house which comes alive over Christmas and New Year

From pantomimes to Christmas shopping, here's your guide to all the best local events happening in December

From the return of Feathers McGraw to a new season of Squid Game, here's your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming in December

Love it or hate it, Christmas will soon be upon us. Want to try something different? Lisa de Silva explores some ideas for a festive getaway

Steeped in history, Hastings Old Town offers the opportunity to discover fascinating ancient streets – full of remarkable buildings and interesting shops. James Forryan reports on this delightful destination Steeped in history, Hastings Old Town offers the opportunity to discover fascinating ancient streets – full of remarkable buildings and interesting shops. James Forryan reports on this delightful destination

Planning the perfect Christmas party is all about being prepared, says Sara Whatley. Have fun!

As performers shun their previously crazy lifestyles in favour of healthy diets and wholesome activities, Flo Whitaker raises a glass and tolls the mourning bell for Rock ‘n’ Roll

As we steam ahead with technology and the convenience of digital transactions, Adele Trathan looks at the pros and cons of a cashless society

With the impact of climate change and overtourism now a reality, Lisa de Silva explores how we can be more environmentally conscious when making travel plans

It’s a playful read this month as Sara Whatley looks at crafting for wellness and changing your workout into a playout

Sonja and Lucian Smithers transformed a sixties country house with Scandi style interiors and natural materials

Delve into the world of pre-loved furniture and upcycling projects with Sara Whatley, plus industry expert tips and advice from The Salvage Sister

Sustainable choices and lifestyle edits can go a long way to reducing your impact and saving money. Courtney Holm recommends creating simple systems that help to make those changes stick

After two rounds of public voting and careful deliberations by the panel of judges, Lindfield has come out on top and adds our Best Sussex Towns & Villages Award to its already well-stocked trophy cabinet

A colourful and creative home full of hidden surprises and cleverly up-cycled vintage pieces, this lovingly restored home is full of personality and passion

In a tribute to Remembrance Day, we asked James Forryan to investigate some of the stories and mysteries behind Sussex war memorials and those that they commemorate

Your guide to all the best local events happening in November...

Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming to screens in November...

Music can set the heart alight, not to mention the dance floor, which is why it’s a vital part of the wedding day. Sara Whatley talks beats, bars and crescendos

The UK’s largest train company is surprising commuters in Brighton with free Christmas Party ‘Survival’ Kits, as this week is officially revealed to be the most popular for the annual office Christmas Party. 

The Primary Care Network project team at Active Hastings (Jas Gray, Sarah Ruusuvuori and Emma Bailey) has been named winner of the Health Improvement Award, at this year’s Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards.

A new campaign has launched in Sussex to encourage people to look after their mental wellbeing over the winter months and seek support when needed.

The build up to the festive season is well under way at Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) with a range of great Christmas events organised by the charity and its amazing supporters across the region to help the charity be `Ready to Save Lives’ this Christmas. 

A pioneering UK-wide study spearheaded by a courageous cancer patient and focused on a rare cancer called Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), has topped the £1 million funding milestone.

The festive season is a magical time in the UK, where towns and cities transform into winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and enchanting attractions. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a romantic Christmas escape, these five Christmas attractions offer unforgettable experiences:

The holiday season may be synonymous with cheer and goodwill, but for those who enjoy a darker twist to their Christmas festivities, horror films set during this time of year provide the perfect blend of chills and yuletide thrills. Here are five standout horror Christmas films made exclusively for an adult audience. These movies are filled with gore, suspense, and twisted humour—definitely not suitable for children:

Christmas is celebrated with joy, lights, and heart-warming traditions, but not all the stories surrounding this festive season are cheerful or ordinary. Across the globe, strange and fascinating Christmas legends have evolved, blending cultural beliefs and folklore to create tales that are as eerie as they are intriguing. Here are five of the most unusual Christmas legends from around the world:

Around the world, different cultures embrace the festive spirit with sweet treats that are as diverse as they are delicious. Let’s take a look at five amazing Christmas desserts that bring festive cheer to tables worldwide:

In the world of cinema, there's something uniquely captivating about underdog stories. They inspire us, tug at our heartstrings, and remind us that perseverance and courage can defy the odds. Whether it's a tale of personal triumph or a group banding together against adversity, underdog films resonate universally. Here are five underdog films we absolutely adore for their powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters:

These scrumptious fudgy cookies are a decadent treat for the whole family – delicious after a brisk autumn walk with a warming cup of cocoa

These warming and hearty fillers have succulent chicken, chestnut mushrooms and artichokes in a delicious creamy sauce flavoured with mustard – topped off with puff pastry. Tasty!

Join Sara Whatley in making some yummy festive recipes that the kids (and adults!) will some yummy festive recipes that the kids (and adults!) will love getting stuck into

This is the perfect, homely dinner to look forward to as the autumn nights draw in. Adele Trathan explains how to make this delicious casserole that is baked and served straight from the pumpkin

This is a hearty autumn or early winter version of Minestrone Soup served with a lovely homemade pesto. Containing such a variety of vegetables – it will definitely up your 5-a-day quota

Even in outer space, there’s nothing quite like a cappuccino muffin. Star Trek legend William Shatner goes boldly into the kitchen and delivers the goods...

This month Sara Whatley and her family have gone mad for apples

Deliciously light and fluffy, these red velvet cupcakes with a gorgeous soft cheese frosting are ideal for an afternoon tea – they are sure to impress your guests

This probably features on the menu of every Persian restaurant in the world, the marinade of yogurt and lemon juice tenderises the meat beautifully. This simplified version can be made at home in a conventional oven or grill if you don’t have a barbecue

Try this winning BBQ chicken recipe from Grillstock founders Jon Finch and Ben Merrington and learn how to make both an authentic South Carolina BBQ sauce, and their secret BBQ rub.

From a vegan feast to sausage, mash and gravy, what will you serve at your wedding? Sara Whatley explores the world of wedding catering

James Forryan investigates the history of producing wine, beer and spirits in Sussex, and how we should all say 'Cheers!' to its great success...

Based on a retro classic, this blancmange is a far cry from its wobbly 1970s reputation – instead, this is a light and creamy raspberry and almond dessert

The perfect spare ribs for your summer barbeque!

One of the wonders of Sussex is the capacity to create food and drink of outstanding quality and Highweald Wine is one such example, producing English Sparking Wines of exceptional standard – Robert Veitch went to find out more, and enjoy a glass or two

Baker and author of Postal Bakes, Lucy Burton, will have you drooling at these divine brownies.

This simple but delicious cake is made in a food processor, so it takes just minutes to prepare. Serve it with a simple lemon and sugar glaze and sprinkle with a few roughly chopped pistachios and dried rose petals

Pasta is perfect for an easy spring supper and ‘Pappare’ means ‘to gobble up’ in Italian, which is the destiny of this dish! If you prefer a little less spice, then simply reduce the quantity of harissa

This is a great way to feed the family as the chicken and veg are all cooked in one very large tray in the oven. It takes only minutes to put everything together then it sits in the oven for under an hour with no fussy finishing off to do and only one pan to wash up.

Cooking a curry from scratch can feel a little daunting but this traditional Burmese recipe is really easy. Lightly spiced, warming and stunningly simple, this curry is one you’ll return to again and again

What Christmas traditions do your family follow, and is it time to adopt a new one? asks Sara Whatley

This month, we look at book releases that include film, fame, sport and architecture

Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows to get stuck into in October...

Get crafty with the kids this Halloween and make these spooky spider’s webs with Sara Whatley

This month, Flo Whitaker writes in praise of humanity's greatest invention: the kettle

As Paris returns to its usual state of late- summer slumbering – and the Olympic Games charabanc trundles off to Los Angeles, Flo Whitaker breathes a sigh of relief and comes out from behind the sofa

Mud, glorious mud! Let the kids loose in the mud kitchen, says Sara Whatley, and learn to love mud pies!

Your monthly guide to all the best new films & TV shows coming in July 2024...

Keep the kids cool in the heat and unleash their inner explorer with an ice block treasure hunt! Sara Whatley shows you how

Your guide to all the best new films coming this month, as well as all of the new and returning TV shows to look out for in June...

Bill Murray samples the culinary delights of Amsterdam and the nearby resort town of Almere

Rail companies are guilty of many things – including crimes against the English Language, says Flo Whitaker

This month, Flo Whitaker recalls some words of advice from her father: “Don’t pick an argument with an idiot – you’ll never win. They’re a highly-experienced expert because they’ve been an idiot their entire life”

Get creative with this month’s fun and sustainable activity – mosaic art. Sara Whatley explains what to do

Our monthly guide to all the best film and television coming your way in April...

There is a malaise creeping through society whereby authorities and businesses use absurd interpretations of regulations as excuses not to provide services or assistance, writes Flo Whitaker

From science-fiction epics to supernatural horrors and family adventures, here's our guide to the best new films and TV shows arriving in March...

With elections, resignations and government enquiries aplenty, 2024 is already proving to be a busy year. In these confusing times, Flo Whitaker offers her interpretation of the most frequently-occurring narratives and themes…

Embrace the darkness with our guide to all the stargazing opportunities coming to Sussex over the next week…

In our new series on wellness and movement, Sara Whatley will be diving into two complementary health topics each month. She kicks off with silence and walking

Get in the festive spirit this year by visiting The Holly Crest, a beautiful boat ready and waiting for your maritime themed family Christmas pic, all in the name of charity

We asked Helen Stockton to visit Hailsham House Care Home, she discovered a place where the focus is on creating a warm, welcoming place to call home

Age UK East Sussex is looking for more volunteers, Rachel Kelly from the charity explains how the role often gives a sense of personal reward and comfort through helping others

There’s a reason Parkers Car and Truck Rental are celebrating their 75th birthday, it’s because they excel at what they do, so Robert Veitch went to visit and learn more about the vehicle rental market

With this year’s Coffee Morning just around the corner on Friday 27 September, Adele Trathan speaks to Macmillan Cancer Support, who are calling on supporters to get involved again

With a brand new stand-up tour coming to the UK later this year, including a number of shows in Sussex, we talk to comedian and TV present Nish Kumar about his time on The Mash Report, getting pelted with bread rolls at gigs, and why he always looks forward to playing shows in smaller towns...

Newly opened in Haywards Heath, Inspiration Gift Shop has the perfect present for every occasion. Hanna Prince pays owner Rachel Taylor a visit to find out more

With performing arts known to play a leading role in helping children to develop many valuable life skills, we asked Lisa de Silva to meet with Florence Tingley and Rebecca Goffin to find out more about the local Pauline Quirke Academies

Farming, food and leisure are the three cornerstones of Heaven Farm, where you will find all three in abundance, including the newly refurbished Butler’s Pantry. Sara Whatley reports

The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is striving to improve the lives of people with all types of cancer – including those with the most challenging to treat. Scientist Dr Anguraj Sadanandam explains why support for this research is vital

The Motor Neurone Disease Association is a charity that was established in 1979 to raise awareness, campaign for better care and support for people diagnosed with MND and their families, as Lisa Burnard from the charity explains

Not a coffee morning kind of couple, Alison and Henry are soon embarking on an ambitious UK tour on their 1960s scooters, all to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society. Sara Whatley finds out more

St Catherine’s Hospice popular Midnight Walk is bouncing back to the streets of Horsham on Saturday 8 June, Adele Trathan explains how readers can get involved

As the conflict in the Ukraine continues, Homes for Ukraine scheme is still keen to hear from people that are interested in hosting a Ukrainian guest, as Paul Crompton from East Sussex County Council explains

Volunteers are central to the success of Repair Cafés across Sussex, so we sent Nicola Coughlin along to Lindfield Repair Cafe to talk to volunteers about their valuable contribution

Hove resident Sylvia Holder tells Sara Whatley the inspiring story of how she set up her charity, The Venkat Trust, when she should have been kicking back in her retirement

Jason Palmer, Volunteer Trustee and Director of The Sussex Heart Charity explains what this award winning charity do to save lives in Sussex

As Rushfields Plant Centre in Poynings gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year, James Forryan talked to founders Colin and Kathryn Langridge about the keys to their longevity and what they’ve learned over their 40 years in business

With his new touring show Vertigo about to arrive in Sussex, we talk to Scottish comedian Connor Burns

Husband and wife health gurus Dr Michael Mosley and Dr Clare Bailey are on a mission to bring healthy eating and living to the masses. They talk to Sara Whatley about their upcoming tour and the health benefits of eating a Mediterranean diet...

From designer florists to petrol station forecourts, cyclamen are everywhere at this time of year. They are uniquely different to other flowers – yet have become so ubiquitous, we’re in danger of forgetting how extraordinary they are, says Flo Whitaker

Delve into the world of pre-loved furniture and upcycling projects with Sara Whatley, plus industry expert tips and advice from The Salvage Sister

Sonja and Lucian Smithers transformed a sixties country house with Scandi style interiors and natural materials

Flowering in the coldest months may seem counter- intuitive, but from a plant’s perspective, there is a distinct advantage – a lack of competition. Flo Whitaker picks six of the best winter- scented shrubs

A colourful and creative home full of hidden surprises and cleverly up-cycled vintage pieces, this lovingly restored home is full of personality and passion

Soil is the gardener’s greatest asset. Understand it, look after it – and many of your horticultural problems will resolve themselves, writes Flo Whitaker

Versatile, easy-going hyacinths bring colour and scent indoors and out, writes Flo Whitaker

Phoenix Construction Services has worked on everything from A-list homes to museum conversions – now the company is turning its attention to local projects. Hanna Prince meets director Mark Woods to find out more

Plagued with Vine Weevils? Enraged by Lily Beetles? Despairing of Box Caterpillars? Flo Whitaker investigates three of the most troublesome gardening pests

Rob Wheeler’s passion for inspired carpentry and woodwork is unmistakable and instigated the creation of Eridge Green Kitchens. With a new showroom on the way and business flourishing, Robert Veitch went to visit the workshop

iFit Fires & Flues Ltd are celebrating 10 years of successful business. The warm and genuine couple behind the name, Paul and Jo, share the secrets of with Sara Whatley

Textile designer Zoe Davis and her husband James have transformed a Grade-II listed farmhouse with a vibrant pallet and vintage finds

The clematis family offers flowers in a wide array of colours and shapes, and there are varieties for nearly every month of the year, says Flo Whitaker

When Catherine and her late husband Dr Brian Sack left London for a more rural lifestyle. They bought a 16th century cottage and created a home full of modern artwork and stylish vintage French finds

Are you thinking of a new shed, greenhouse or garden room? Sara Whatley gives you some food for thought on all three

How are your patio pots? Show-stopping, or lacklustre? Time to try some different planting combinations, suggests Flo Whitaker

Read on for some green fingered ideas to get the kids involved in the garden from Sara Whatley

The grass really was greener for this family, who left behind their recently remodelled London house for a new life in the country

Read on for the latest in home and garden lighting ideas for a bright and up to date space, says Sara Whatley

With its exquisitely fragrant, show-stopping blooms, wisteria is the queen of spring climbers – yet it can be frustratingly sulky and thuggish. Flo Whitaker offers a quick troubleshooting guide to floral success

With the festive season fast approaching, Teddy ponders on the vagaries of the weather at Christmas, as explained by Helen Stockton, his human translator

Despite enduring health and weight checks at the vets, Teddy still enjoys a treat when the opportunity arises, as his human interpreter, Helen Stockton explains

As autumn approaches, Teddy ruminates on the changing season and his human translator, Helen Stockton, puts it into plain words

Teddy reveals that dogs, much like their human companions, are individuals with different likes and dislikes, as explained by human interpreter Helen Stockton

Could fostering an animal with Raystede offer the joys of owning a pet without the financial and logistical commitment? Hanna Lindon investigates

This year’s summer of sport has been a testing time for Teddy! His human translator, Helen Stockton explains why

As the nation heads to the polls for the General Election, Teddy ponders the policies he would like to see introduced, as Helen Stockton, his human translator explains...

Hobbies are subjective, what entertains some, may be a bore to others. Teddy ponders on his own interests, as Helen Stockton, his human translator explains

Teddy explains, through his human interpreter Helen Stockton, that currency transactions are not financial ones made through a bank as far as he is concerned...

Teddy has been musing on the origins of national credentials and that the truth of the matter could be quite different to any literal interpretation, as his human translator Helen Stockton explains

Sussex-based animal charity Raystede has been working tirelessly to improve the lives of animals for over 70 years. Hanna Prince visits its Sussex site to find out more

Tap into the super cute side of spring with a visit to some frisking newborn lambs, suggests Sara Whatley

Although he's not allowed everywhere, Teddy tells his human interpreter Helen Stockton that he's actually OK with that

Teddy has discovered that the month of February is far from uneventful – with many special days to recognise and celebrate, as his human interpreter Helen Stockton explains

The annual January household clean up makes Teddy feel a bit anxious. Helen Stockton, his human translator, explains that Teddy isn't the greatest fan of cleanliness

Alice Johnson from the RSPB describes some of the species of birds you might see during the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch this January

Bonfire Night is just around the corner. A night of fireworks and celebrations, it's fun for us, but not always for our pets.

Advertising Feature: The relationship between bees and humans dates back thousands of years, so its reassuring to know that Carl Slade is making beekeeping easier for both the novice and experienced apiarist; we sent Robert Veitch to meet him.

Teddy is looking forward to a chilled out month of rest and relaxation, hopefully with some sunshine to bathe in, as Helen Stockton, his human translator explains.

A Sussex garden is not only a place of beauty and tranquility but also a haven for a diverse range of captivating wildlife. We have complied a list of some of the wildlife that you’re most likely to see in your garden this summer:

We've got THREE family tickets to give away to this brand-new immersive Christmas experience!

We're offering one lucky Hidden member the chance to win up to ten tickets to this fantastic Christmas extravaganza with Eastbourne Music Fest!

We've got a family ticket to offer to this fantastic show (on Tuesday 17 December at 6pm) starring EastEnders legend Steve McFadden!

We've got a lovely Sunday lunch for two up for grabs with a bottle of house wine at this lovely farm kitchen and barn in the Sussex countryside...

We've got a family pass available to this Grade 1 listed gardens for this fantastic festive event along with garden entry and lunch*! Photo credit: © Snowman Enterprises Limited 2024

Whether you’re just curious about the differences between the two, or are totally clueless on both practises, Yoga instructor & Assistant Editor Mary Goodsell sheds some light and advice on the two styles of exercise.

Improving posture is important for maintaining good overall health and preventing musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, and poor circulation. Here are some tips to help you improve your posture:

Mid Sussex has always been a popular area in which to live. The winning combination of beautiful countryside and easy accessibility creates the perfect conditions for a great quality of life, whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a more mature person.

Less is more. Don’t get conned. It’s a scam. These are the sorts of phrases you will hear Consultant Dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings saying about the skincare industry. She candidly speaks to Sara Whatley about ageing, menopause, Botox, and ‘Big Skincare’