News

Let’s go play in the woods! Come rain or shine Sara Whatley and her brood love a good yomp through the trees – along with a bit of den building of course

Start as you mean to go on by creating your very own home sanctuary, a place to relax and enrich your life, says Sara Whatley

Anxiety UK’s Dave Smithson speaks to Sara Whatley about how the midlife population is experiencing anxiety, and what to do about it

Each month Adele Trathan and Sara Whatley look at seven elements of living the life of a natural beauty, helping you to enrich the mind, body and soul in balance and holistic harmony

Having trouble sleeping? Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity is here to help with her exclusive sleep insight and guidance

We all strive for longevity in life – we want to maximise each day, each experience and each other. Adele Trathan offers ten ways to help achieve this goal

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

Recycling architecture is a concept that fascinates designer Mirka McNeill Farmer. Her talent for creating a unique character property is clearly evident with this mix of ancient and modern

Your guide to the best local events happening near you this month...

Adele Trathan has a sneaky peek into the hot fashion trends that will dominate the quarter-century as we look at five styles for 2025

Adele Trathan explains how just £5 per day can set you off on that dream holiday, with tips on making small changes to make your dreams a reality

Work that body and then relax and revitalise, says Sara Whatley as she looks at massage and spa treatments, and strength training

Jo Hounsell and husband Mark have sensitively restored this 1930s Art Deco house, retaining its character to honour its past, and creating a much-loved family home

Historic Kitchens Manager for Historic Royal Palaces, Sussex born and bred Richard Fitch shares his extensive knowledge of Christmas fare from the last 500 years, and some historic recipes which our readers may like to try at home this year

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

It is promoted as a time for togetherness but for many, Christmas can be an isolating and melancholy period. Beating those festive blues isn’t easy, but these techniques can help raise your spirits

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

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

An arts charity in Newhaven which provides free drama workshops for children and young people has received nearly £5,000 from Newhaven Enterprise Zone’s Community Fund to employ an early years artist.

Sussex community groups were celebrating this week as London Gatwick announced the recipients of £30,000 from the third round of the London Gatwick Foundation Fund, across Crawley, Horsham, Mid Sussex and Wealden.

The new year is a time for many people to think about making changes to their life – but have you considered a voluntary role that would see you make a real difference to your community, teach you new skills, boost your confidence and help your career?

The University of Brighton has received the highest accreditation for its delivery of pioneering sports and physical exercise degrees.

Vital engineering work is taking place this Sunday, 12 January between Gatwick Airport and East Croydon, meaning that there will be no trains running between East Croydon and Gatwick Airport, or stations in between South Croydon and Gatwick Airport, including Redhill.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking time out for self-care is more important than ever. Spas offer a sanctuary of tranquillity, combining luxurious treatments with stunning settings to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Here are five incredible spas around the world that redefine relaxation and elevate wellness to an art form:

January can be a challenging month. The festive buzz has faded, and the cold, dark days can feel endless. But it’s also the perfect time to prioritise your wellbeing. Why not embrace the new year with a rejuvenating escape? Here are five fabulous UK destinations ideal for a January wellness boost:

January might be known as the month of healthier living, but you'd have to be quite brave to give some of these wellbeing delicacies a go!

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, we often set lofty resolutions like "exercise daily" or "eat healthier." While these goals are admirable, they can sometimes feel daunting or a little too serious. Why not mix things up this year? Here are five hilarious New Year's resolutions that are sure to bring some laughter into your life—and maybe even those around you:

Turkey may be the traditional centre-piece of Christmas dinners, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re looking for something new, accommodating dietary preferences, or simply not a fan of turkey, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. Here are five ideas to inspire a memorable Christmas feast:

Start the weekend the right way by making the perfect eggs benedict – wonderfully warming for an indulgent winter brunch

A feast of flavours to satisfy those sweet cravings, this is a belter of a bread and butter pudding, which really packs a punch! Perfect for Christmas gatherings

Brussels sprouts – they’re a festive classic that usually divides people. Yet with a simple addition of pomegranate and flaked almonds, even the most doubting of Christmas dinner diners could be won over by this recipe

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

As this long-running feature celebrates its 10th anniversary this month, we review a decade of It's Dog's Life with Teddy, his young apprentice Bear, and of course our original canine columnist, the late, great Rolo...

This month, it’s spells, silliness, Space Cuties and sublime illustrations...

This month, Flo Whitaker admires the talents of celebrity ghostwriters; a mostly anonymous tribe who can churn out prose on any subject – then sell it by the yard

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...

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...

Considering a New Year’s Resolution for your garden? Grow more pansies, says Flo Whitaker

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 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 half price tickets to this brilliant day out on Easter Monday (April 21) - we've only got a limited amount so hurry!

The stunning Royal Hotel is offering one lucky Hidden member the chance to win a fabulous overnight stay on February 14 with a romantic dinner for two and a full English the next morning!

Ready for February half term, we've got TWO family passes to offer our Hidden members for this fantastic family activity!

The Seasons Kitchen is offering you the chance to win a delicious breakfast or lunch meal for two at their organic wholefood café in Forest Row!

To kick off 2025 - we've got half price entry tickets for international polo at Hickstead!

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’