> Fairwarp
by Beryl Easton

Fairwarp village is a small, traditionally English one set just off the B2026 a few miles north of Uckfield and on Ashdown Forest.

Fairwarp Christ Church, built in local stone and consecrated In 1881. In 1935 Sir Bernard Eckstein of Oldlands, a nearby great house, added the present tower and chancel in memory of his father. The building is known as The Church on the Forest as it stands quite apart from the village in a beautiful setting. The building is charming and has many interesting features including a modern tapestry that backs the altar. The Vicar is the Revd. Ian Gibson.

Fairwarp Village Market - is held twice a month in the Village Hall.

The Fairwarp Foxes - is the Fairwarp Short Mat Bowls Club that meets every Friday afternoon in the Village Hall. The Foxes welcome new members. The Foxes play home and away games with great skill and verve. Telephone Mrs. Peggy Endacott on 01825-712819 for information.

The Village Hall - has received a Lottery Grant for essential works, plus a grant from both Wealden District Council and Maresfield Parish Council. Work will be going on during the Summer period, so, for news of dates available for hire, telephone Lloyd West on 01825 - 712808 . Lloyd is also the welcoming host of The Foresters Arms. The Hall already has excellent facilities with a fine kitchen and a stage for theatrical productions. The building, though old and built in the 1920's, is well kept and most attractive with shaded wall lights for illumination. These lights were given to the village by Mrs. Carol Suckling when she retired from her post as Postmistress of Fairwarp.

Fairwarp's Village magazine -is The Fairwarp Echo, an excellent publication giving news of all that goes on plus many interesting articles. Editor is Mrs. Reynie Thorne on 01825 - 712686 who could advise you on sales outlets etc. for the magazine.

Sadly, Fairwarp no longer has a school. The old school building has been a private dwelling for many years. Neither is there a shop or post office in the village, the last Postmistress and Shopkeeper retired several years ago. Residents use Nutley or Maresfield Post Offices and shops.

Fairwarp W.I. - had its 79th. Birthday this year. The Institute is a bright and lively one with a large and friendly membership that enjoys all manner of activities. The President is Mrs. Terry Ashby who lives in Nutley, telephone 01825- 712923. The Institute is an evening one, and meets every second Tuesday of the month in the Village Hall.

Village Societies - proliferate in this friendly village. Details may be obtained from The Fairwarp Echo.