Author: Andrew Taylor

It’s incredible to think six months have already flown by since I began my journey as mayor of East Grinstead. Every day since May has reinforced my deep pride in this wonderful, beautiful town and the people who make it so special. I’m endlessly grateful to everyone who has welcomed me and shared their stories along the way.

The past months have brought so many memorable moments and the chance to connect with countless clubs, organizations, and remarkable individuals who give their time and energy to make East Grinstead an even better place. This community spirit—the volunteers and residents who support one another—is truly like the glue that keeps East Grinstead strong and resilient.

Among the standout moments was the Jeunes Sans Frontières event in Bourg-de-Péage, where I had the immense pleasure of witnessing our students become Champions of Europe. Their achievement fills me with pride, and it’s been a joy to meet so many of East Grinstead’s young people, each of whom is a fantastic ambassador for our town. They are the next generation of leaders and community builders, and their enthusiasm and dedication to representing East Grinstead make me incredibly optimistic for the future.

Some other unforgettable highlights include the commemorations of D-Day, where we gathered to honour the courage of those who fought for freedom, and the vibrant East Court Live events, held on two brilliant summer days. Each gathering, from the Fire Station Open Day to Queen Victoria Hospital’s 80th anniversary celebration of the Canadian Wing, the Classic Car Show, and the East Grinstead 10k, has showcased the unique charm of our town and the strong bonds between its people.

A special moment was also hosting the Mayor’s reception, where we celebrated our town’s unsung heroes. These volunteers, working quietly behind the scenes, are the foundation of our community’s strength. It’s their dedication and kindness that keep East Grinstead thriving, and we are all better for their contributions.

One of the most exciting projects we’ve undertaken this year has been raising funds for East Grinstead’s first electric Community Trishaw in collaboration with the local charity Being Neighbourly. Our goal is to raise £12,000, and thanks to the support of so many, we’ve already raised £6,000! This trishaw will provide a life-changing experience for socially isolated, able, and less able-bodied members of our community, giving them the opportunity to feel the joy of cycling. I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported this initiative and helped us get so far. Your generosity will make a tangible difference in the lives of so many. There is still a long way to go so if you’d like to contribute to this wonderful and life-changing project, please click here to donate.

Looking ahead, the next six months promise even more to look forward to, including the Christmas lights and the Big Reveal, both of which will bring our community together in celebration. I am profoundly grateful for every person I’ve met, every story shared, and every act of kindness I’ve witnessed. Serving East Grinstead is a true honour, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead as we continue working together to keep our town as vibrant, strong, and beautiful as ever.

East Grinstead – Champions of Europe

As Mayor of East Grinstead, I had the enormous pleasure of witnessing the phenomenal achievements of our young students and their dedicated teachers from Sackville School, who recently returned from the Town Twinning Youth Games—Jeunes sans Frontières (Youth without Borders). This prestigious event held this year in Bourg de Péage, France, brought together youth from our twin towns in Spain, France, Austria, Italy, and Germany for a brilliant four-day competition of sports and fun. This year’s games were particularly special, coinciding with the passage of the Olympic Flame through the town, adding an extra element of once in a lifetime memories.

Our incredible team—students Lizzie, Evie, Hannah, Addy, Freddie, and Lucas, along with their wonderful teachers Mr. Dupoy and Mrs. Plumb —incredible ambassadors for East Grinstead. They fully immersed themselves in the multicultural community that embodies the true spirit of town twinning and cultural exchange. Their conduct was exemplary, their enthusiasm boundless, and their positive energy really contagious.

From the moment they arrived, our students demonstrated a willingness to engage and immerse themselves with peers from different cultures, initiating conversations and forging meaningful connections. The feedback from other delegates was overwhelmingly amazing, all praising the kindness, friendliness and sportsmanship of our team. Hearing such glowing comments filled my heart with joy and reaffirmed the high regard in which our students are held. I could not have been prouder of them all.

The entire town of East Grinstead shares in this immense pride. The achievements of the Sackville team have made our community proud and really highlighted the spirit and value of town twinning. Not forgetting that without our Town Twinning Association this would not have been possible. Their hard work, passion and exemplary conduct are a credit to both the town and their school. They have set a high standard for future delegations, and their success is a testament to the values and standards fostered at Sackville School.

In an age where global connections and understanding are more important than ever, our students have shown that East Grinstead is not just a town of high achievers but also one of compassionate and engaged global citizens. They have truly embodied the spirit of “Youth without Borders,” demonstrating that through sports, friendship, and cultural exchange, we can build a more connected and harmonious world.

As we celebrate our conquerors of Europe, let us also look forward to continuing our tradition of Town Twinning engagement and celebrating the achievements of our young people, in whatever they do, in the months and years to come.

Congratulations to our champions—you have made East Grinstead incredibly proud!