Muster Green was filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit on Sunday 7th June as Haywards
Heath Town Council welcomed residents to its annual Spring Into Summer celebration.
The popular event attracted thousands of visitors throughout the afternoon, with families enjoying a
packed programme of entertainment, activities, and community stalls. From the moment the event
opened, there was a wonderful atmosphere across the Green. Residents of all ages came together to
celebrate the start of the summer season and enjoy an afternoon of free community entertainment.
A vibrant range of stalls formed a key part of the event and proved a major draw for visitors throughout
the day. Local businesses, charities, community groups, and organisations came together to
showcase the breadth of talent, services, and opportunities available within Haywards Heath. Visitors
enjoyed browsing handmade crafts, gifts, and artisan products, while also discovering local initiatives
and speaking directly with the people behind them.
Community groups used the opportunity to raise awareness of their work, recruit new members, and
connect with residents in a relaxed and friendly environment. Charities shared information about the
causes they support locally and further afield, while small independent businesses benefited from
valuable exposure and the chance to engage with new customers. The stalls added colour and variety
to the event, creating a lively marketplace atmosphere that complemented the entertainment
programme and encouraged people to explore everything the event had to offer.
Haywards Heath Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, officially opened the event, warmly welcoming
residents and visitors and speaking about the importance of community events in bringing people
together. At the end of the day he commented, “It was wonderful to see so many residents, families
and visitors enjoying Spring Into Summer and making the most of everything the event had to offer. It
was a fantastic celebration of community spirit and a wonderful showcase of the talent and
enthusiasm that exists within Haywards Heath.”
The arena programme proved to be one of the highlights of the day, showcasing a variety of talented
local performers. Lucy Songi captivated audiences with her beautiful singing voice and accomplished
piano performance, providing a wonderful soundtrack to start the afternoon. The youngest performers
of the day also delighted spectators: dancers from Baby Ballet charmed the audience with their
heartwarming routines, earning enthusiastic applause from proud family members and visitors alike.
Their performance was followed by Fuego Gymnastics, who delivered an energetic and highly
impressive display, showcasing strength, agility, balance, and flexibility.
Led by Grove Garden, a relaxing and inclusive Tai Chi session took place, encouraging people of all
ages to try something new. As the afternoon progressed, children eagerly gathered around the arena
in anticipation of the final performance from Marco the Magician. Laughter and applause filled Muster
Green as Marco’s interactive performance provided a memorable and fitting finale to the day’s
entertainment.
Away from the arena, attractions across the site remained busy throughout the afternoon. The
fairground rides proved a popular attraction, with children excitedly taking their turns and enjoying the
traditional funfair experience. The rides added colour and energy to the event, creating a lively
backdrop and providing plenty of excitement for younger visitors.
The circus skills workshops also attracted enthusiastic participation, giving children and adults alike
the opportunity to test their coordination and learn new skills. From plate spinning to juggling,
attendees embraced the challenge with determination and good humour, while experienced
instructors offered encouragement and guidance throughout the sessions.
Nearby, the crazy golf course welcomed a steady stream of friendly competition as families and
friends challenged one another around the course. The activity provided a fun and accessible way for
visitors of all ages to get involved, with plenty of laughter and light-hearted rivalry on display
throughout the afternoon.
Long queues also formed for the face painting and balloon modelling provided by Tick Boom, whose
talented artists transformed children into colourful characters and created an array of imaginative
balloon designs. Donations were collected in support of the Mayor’s Charity, Kangaroos Mid Sussex.
Visitors generously contributed to the collection, helping to raise awareness of the organisation and
its valuable work supporting children and adults with learning disabilities across the local area.
Haywards Heath Town Council would like to thank everyone who attended, performed, exhibited,
volunteered, and supported the event. Special thanks are extended to event sponsors Belvoir and
South East Water, whose support helped make the celebration possible.
Spring Into Summer once again demonstrated the strong sense of community that exists within
Haywards Heath, bringing residents together for an enjoyable afternoon of entertainment,
participation, and shared experiences while creating lasting memories for families across the town. If
you would like to provide us with your feedback, please visit the website.
By Kelly Lewis
