If there was ever any doubt that Haywards Heath has stories worth telling, Town Day put it firmly to rest. The Our Town Our Story stall was a hive of activity throughout the day, as residents young and old stopped by to find out more, share a memory, or simply ask, “So what exactly is this all about?” By the end of the afternoon, the answer was clear: this is a project the town has been waiting for.
Beyond the steady stream of curious visitors, interest came from some unexpected and very welcome quarters. Local Scout and Girl Guide groups got in touch, keen to get their young members involved, while several other community groups also came forward wanting to know how they could take part. For a project built entirely on the idea that everyone has a story worth telling, it’s hard to imagine a better response.
“Stories are an important part of the fabric of every town,” said local author and Our Town Our Story Founder Matt Newnham. “Telling them, as well as sharing them, is good for everyone.”
That spirit of sharing is about to move from the stall to the streets, with a series of Our Town Our Story Tea, Coffee and a Chat sessions being planned at venues across Haywards Heath in the coming weeks. Informal, welcoming, and open to all, these sessions are designed to be exactly what they sound like: a cuppa, a friendly ear, and a chance to talk about the town and the memories that make it what it is. The first proper story-gathering event was held at the Dolphin Leisure Centre on Saturday 26th September, and was free of charge for anyone who wanted to come along. For that event and any others, there’s no need to prepare anything special, just bring stories, and perhaps something to write with, should inspiration strike.
The Dolphin Leisure Centre event was just the first of many in-person sessions being held over the coming months, at venues including coffee shops, Bentswood Hub, Woodside at Bolnore, local schools, the library and more.
There’s no need to wait for these events to take place, however. Anyone who wants to contribute right now can do so online at the address below, where anyone can upload their Haywards Heath and surrounding villages story for free, either as a written story, an audio recording, or photos.
And of course, a project of this scale doesn’t run itself. Our Town Our Story is actively looking for volunteers, whether that’s helping at events, gathering stories, lending a creative hand, or simply spreading the word. No experience is needed, just an interest in the town and its people.
For details of upcoming events, or to find out how to get involved as a volunteer, visit www.ourtownourstory.com. Every town has a story. This is Haywards Heath’s chance to tell it.