PEOPLE, Groups and Charities who make a difference in Hailsham were recognised in the 2025 Hailsham Hero Awards last night (14 November).
Almost a 100 strong audience celebrated the heroes who clinched awards in six different categories at the event, which took place at the King’s Head in Horsebridge.
The awards were organised by Hailsham News and Hailsham FM, with support from Hailsham Town Council and a number of sponsors.
The Winners and Highly Commended runners-up were…
Outstanding Young Person Award
• Rubie Geer – Winner
For showing extraordinary bravery, determination, and kindness while overcoming serious illness and inspiring her community.
• Alfie Manning – Highly Commended
Hailsham Boxing Club: For building confidence, excelling in boxing, and inspiring his peers through determination and self-belief.
Fundraiser of the Year Award
• Keith Dickman – Winner
Hailsham Lions: For exceptional dedication in raising funds and supporting numerous charities through voluntary work.
• Des Parker – Highly Commended
Hailsham FM: For dedication to volunteering and bringing the community together through radio and local fundraising.
Group Organisation Award
• Hailsham Bonfire Society – Winner
For bringing the community together through spectacular events and ongoing charitable contributions.
• Community Crafters – Highly Commended
Dippy Doodahs: For supporting local people through craft, care, and community engagement.
• 2nd Hailsham Scouts – Highly Commended
For developing young people, supporting community events, and nurturing the next generation in Hailsham.
Charity of the Year Award
• Children With Cancer Fund – Winner
For transforming lives and providing vital support to families facing challenging times.
• Hailsham Lions Club – Highly Commended
For over 50 years of fundraising and supporting the Hailsham community through creative initiatives.
• Rotary Club of Hailsham – Highly Commended
For ongoing service, fundraising, and volunteering that improves lives locally and internationally.
Business Contribution of the Year Award.
• White Hart Public House – Winner
For fostering community spirit and supporting local causes through generosity and dedication
• Lightning Fibre – Highly Commended
For supporting local charities and community initiatives alongside their business.
• Stevens & Carter Estate Agents – Highly Commended
For actively giving back to the community through fundraising and charitable support.
Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award
• Kate Anderson-Bishop – Winner
Dippy Doodahs: For creating an inclusive, welcoming space and supporting community groups with care and dedication.
• Steve Wennington – Highly Commended
Hailsham Active: For championing inclusive sports, wellbeing initiatives, and community engagement across Hailsham.
• John McCutcheon – Highly Commended
Bluebell Walk / Bates Green Garden: For transforming personal grief into community generosity through public gardens and charity support.
• Marcos Jarvis – Highly Commended
Warrior’s Breath: For empowering the community with wellness, resilience, and holistic support following his own health journey.
During the evening, a raffle was held in which all proceeds were donated to the Charity of the Year (Children with Cancer Fund). £355 in total was presented to the charity.
The organisers have expressed their thanks to the event’s sponsors, who ensure it can go ahead. These were The Royal Indian, Yes Promo Products Ltd, Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce, Charles Century Estate Agent and Hailsham Town Council.
A date for next year’s awards will be announced in the near future.
