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News & Updates

Regular news and updates from the Chamber, our members, local Councils and other relevant business news will be posted regularly here. 

Don't forget, as a member one of your many benefits is being able to submit your press releases and news for inclusion here as well as on either the members or business news emails and social media, for guidelines please click here. Please submit to lauren@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk 

Business News Items


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  • 08 April 2026 1:20 PM | Anonymous

    Southwick Community Centre set for major refurbishment

    Visitors to historic Southwick Community Centre will benefit from an improved facility once heritage specialist Pilbeam Construction completes a crucial revamp in early May this year.

    New windows and damp proofing, combined with internal and external refurbishment will transform the important community building into a more welcoming space.

    Founded in 1945, Southwick Community Centre is one of the oldest community centres in the country.

    The complex was originally derelict 16th-century farm buildings, including a barn, stables and piggeries.


    Pilbeam Construction commercial manager Matt Hayler said: “It’s a pleasure for us to be working on Southwick Community Centre, a project that’s very close to home for our team and for me personally, as I live just around the corner.

    “The centre brings so much to the local community, so we’re proud to support a building that plays such an important role for local people.

    “With much of the centre remaining open throughout, we’ll ensure the work is carefully managed, clearly communicated and safely separated from visitors to minimise disruption.”

    Work is due to start on April 1 and complete in early May, with specialist timber windows supplied by Ventrolla.

    Pilbeam will work closely with the conservation officer to ensure the specialist windows match the existing ones precisely.

    The £150k scheme will include installing replacement windows to the Barn Café and the George Porter Room, as the current windows are beyond repair. Drainage work will combat internal damp problems.

    The café will be shut for two weeks to allow the work to be completed.

    Southwick Community Centre manager Jayne Routley said: “Our centre hosts a vast array of activities with 50 different groups which bring our community together so it’s vital we provide a more comfortable space for them.

    “We’re looking forward to welcoming our neighbours Pilbeam Construction and seeing their heritage construction skills at work.

    “We know construction causes disruption to visitors, but the results will be worth the very short wait.”

    Pilbeam Construction has previously worked for Adur and Worthing Councils, which owns the community centre, on projects at Worthing Town Hall and Worthing Theatres and Museum.

    For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

    For more information about the community centre please visit: https://southwickcommunitycentre.org.uk/


  • 08 April 2026 1:15 PM | Anonymous

    Expert advice on Closing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing and Engineering at Crawley breakfast event

    Local manufacturing and engineering businesses will hear expert tips on closing the skills gap at the next meeting of METALL, the forum for manufacturing, engineering and technology businesses.

    The breakfast event takes place on Tuesday 21 April at the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology at Crawley College. The practical presentations will be of particular interest for those businesses facing their most capable staff approaching retirement, new recruits arriving without the technical and practical skills their business needs, staff that are irreplaceable in the current market, or issues retaining and developing their best people.


    Speakers Jeff Hughes, Engineering Manager of Welland Medical and Zoe Robson, Head of People at Ceres Power will share how they addressed workforce priorities within their businesses, with support from Crawley College and the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT). Dean Wynter (Vice Principal at Crawley College & SSIoT) will outline how businesses can access funding, tailored training, and qualifications like T Levels, HNCs, and HNDs to upskill staff.

    Tony Summers, Partner and Head of Manufacturing at Carpenter Boxcommented:

    “This is a fantastic opportunity for manufacturing businesses to explore one of the sector’s most pressing challenges – building and retaining a skilled workforce. With practical insight from industry peers and guidance from the Institute of Technology, attendees will gain clear, actionable ways to access training, funding and development pathways to support future growth.”

    The event will end with an open Q&A, followed by attendees having the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art IoT facility on the Crawley College campus. Registration for this free event is at https://www.metall.org.uk/events/

    The event is sponsored by: Carpenter Box, NatWest and DMH Stallard LLP.



  • 31 March 2026 8:59 AM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Link To Hope's Friday Night Live

    Forget Easter Eggs.  Buy a ticket to Link To Hope’s Friday Night Live event instead.

    Friday Night Live is a fun-filled evening of entertainment, laughter and great company on Friday 17th April, from 7.30pm to 10.00pm in Ferring, West Sussex.  Join us for a fantastic evening of games inspired by classic TV game shows including What’s My Line, Blankety Blank, Mr & Mrs, Would I Lie to You, Play Your Cards Right, Copycats and more.

    Tickets are £10 each and fantastic entertainment, raffle and a cash bar are also available.

    Come in teams of 10 or as an individual or couple and we will put you on a table with others. For each game your table decides if you want to play your Joker to double your points.  If was a sell out last time we hosted this fundraiser. Children are welcome over 10 years old.

    The event will take place at Glebelands Centre, Ferring, West Sussex and all profits raised will go directly towards the work of Link to Hope, supporting vulnerable people and communities across Eastern Europe.

    Come along, bring friends, and enjoy a great night out while helping transform lives.

    Buy your tickets here


  • 26 March 2026 2:05 PM | Lauren Martin-Grieveson (Administrator)

    Crowns Venues announce full purchase of Tottington Manor Hotel

    On 17th March 2021 the Directors of Crowns Venues Ltd, Helen & Steve Pomery, Philip Fossey & Jamie Kensett acquired the keys to Tottington Manor Hotel near Henfield. They negotiated an entry deal securing a 5 Year option and fixing the freehold price with the balance deferred until 17th March 2026. On 11th March this year the Freehold was purchased in full transferring 100% ownership to Crowns Venues Ltd T/A Tottington Manor Hotel. 

    The Hotel, now completely transformed and re-invigorated through enormous investment and vision has built up an enviable reputation within Sussex and beyond as well as creating the standalone TERRA Restaurant which is entirely focused on championing the best Sussex Produce, Wines and Spirits all from the heart of the South Downs.


    Since their arrival, the 12 Bedroomed Guest Accommodation has been recognised by the AA as 4 Star and they’ve gone on to be awarded numerous awards and accolades from THE BRAVO’s, The Beautiful South Awards for Best Restaurant in South East (2nd), Best Wedding Venue (Bronze), Gold Ribbon Good Food Guide, Opentable, has recently been featured as one of the Top 50 Restaurants in the UK by Opentable and receivedtheir first AA Rosette. 

    Now employing a local team of 40, Tottington Manor Hotel hosts 50 Weddings every year and they holdevents throughout the year including Live Music and Special Menu nights and have become well known fortheir community Christmas events and the Hotel & TERRA Restaurant are open every day.

    Director Helen Pomery said “On the night of our 5th Anniversary we celebrated with 150 guests to announceour purchase was complete and we were joined by the local Sussex business community, guests, suppliers, friends and neighbours. We are so proud, especially during this very difficult time for the Hospitality Industry to have got the required funding to complete the purchase of Tottington Manor and secured its future foryears to come. We continue to work hard and smart and thank all the guests, our wonderful suppliers and ourteam and look forward to many more happy years here in the heart of the South Downs National Park. 

    www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk


  • 25 March 2026 11:37 AM | Anonymous

    Worthing Businesses Support Sussex Cricket Foundation Through New Networking Events

    Local businesses in Worthing have come together to support the Sussex Cricket Foundation through a growing series of networking events led by Tim Ransley of Bennett Griffin LLP and Sam Hart of Ian Hart Funeral Services.

    The initiative brings together professionals from across the local business community in a relaxed and engaging environment, combining informal networking with guest speakers from the world of cricket.

    The series has already welcomed well-known, international names including Monty Panesar, Ollie Robinson, and Paul Farbrace, Director of Cricket at Sussex, who have shared stories from their careers with guests while helping to raise funds for the Foundation.

    The most recent event, “The Afternoon Session”, took place at Tavola Di Famiglia in Worthing, where around 40 guests enjoyed a three-course lunch, heard from guest speakers Paul Farbrace and Ollie Robinson, and took part in a raffle in support of the Foundation.

    Speaking about the events, Tim Ransley and Sam Hart said:

    “Whilst combining funerals with the law and professional sport all sounds rather novel, we wanted to get local businesses talking, but in a way that we could add a bit of interest. As fans of the old leather on willow, what better way to do that than hear from some of the legends of the game all whilst raising money for the Foundation. We want to say a huge thanks to Ian Hart Funeral Services and Bennett Griffin for supporting us with this. We have some great ideas for the future so watch this space!”


    Across the first two events, a total of £1,500 has been raised to support the Sussex Cricket Foundation’s work across the county.

    Gary Wallis-Tayler from the Sussex Cricket Foundation added:

    “We are extremely grateful to Sam, Tim and the local Worthing community for supporting the Foundation. These events not only raise vital funds but also enables us to raise awareness and the profile of the Foundation, across a town that has strong cricketing tradition and whose recreational clubs continue to provide opportunities for people of all ages, abilities and genders to access the game.”

    The Sussex Cricket Foundation plays an important role in supporting communities across the region, using cricket as a way to improve physical and mental wellbeing, develop life skills and create inclusive opportunities.

    Further events are already being planned throughout the year, continuing to offer local businesses the chance to connect, share experiences and support a meaningful cause.  If you are interested, keep an eye on the Bennett Griffin Social Media feeds, or email Tim tr@bennett-griffin.co.uk to ensure you are on the next invite list.


  • 25 March 2026 10:23 AM | Anonymous

    Turning Tides - Elephant in the Room Appeal

    The Elephant in the Room appeal calls on the community to confront the growing homelessness crisis that many now walk past without a second thought.  Why are we no longer shocked?

    From powerful poetry and thought-provoking webinars to student-led art projects, local homelessness charity Turning Tides has encourages community-wide action to raise awareness and funds. Read about the full Elephant in the Room appeal below. 

    A Community Coming Together  

    Poetry: As part of the appeal, local West Sussex poet, Liz Verlander, has created a moving and powerful poem now featured on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_5pvQDxybnQ?si=Xa76ihU2EPCW_k2q 

    Elephant Auction:  Turning Tides will be auctioning an Eduardo Paolozzi Elephant Sculpture at the Henry Adams at their auction in Chichester on 26th March.  

    Webinar: Schools, colleges, churches and local businesses can get involved with talking about homelessness using Turning Tides’ webinar on YouTube, with discussion points to raise awareness, help understanding and find out more about what to do when you see someone sleeping rough. Understanding Homelessness: A Webinar for Groups, Businesses, Colleges & Schools in West Sussex 

    Local College Support: Northbrook college is also supporting, students from their Future You program, are giving incredible support with an art project, with an Elephant they have designed and will be photographing around Worthing, followed by a bake sale to raise funds.  

    Let’s Talk about The Elephant in the Room 
    Homelessness Must Never be Normalised 

     

    We need to face the Elephant in the Room; homelessness has become such a familiar sight that, too often, people are walking past without seeing the human reality. Once, seeing someone sleeping rough was shocking. Why are we no longer shocked? Turning Tides’ Elephant in the Room appeal challenges this uncomfortable reality, asking people to stop, reflect and recognise that homelessness has become the issue no one wants to talk about, despite its increasing visibility. Do we choose to look away, to assume someone else will help, or to blame the person experiencing homelessness rather than ask how they got there?  

    Homelessness can happen to anyone. Relationship breakdowns, bereavement, mental health crises, job loss and rising living costs. On top of this, systemic issues are driving more people into homelessness: hundreds of thousands of empty homes, over 155,000 in the Southeast alone, increasing pressure on mental health services, too few affordable homes being built (especially for single adults), and a significant reduction in social housing. Yet stigma persists.  

    Operations Manager, Niall Read said “Homelessness socially excludes some of the most vulnerable people in our society. It is like being on the wrong side, on the outside looking in, seeing what everyone has but somehow not being able to reach it. By engaging, making contact and acknowledging those who find themselves sleeping rough, we can all create pathways and connections to bring people in allowing them to feel valued and to make changes.” 

    Through Elephant in the Room, Turning Tides is asking local residents, businesses and organisations to face the issue head-on, talk openly about the realities of homelessness to help raise awareness and vital funds so the charity can continue providing pathways out of homelessness for people in the local community. 


  • 23 March 2026 2:56 PM | Anonymous

    Hercule van Wolfwinkle reaches the halfway point of his epic 500-mile charity walk 

    ‘Rubbish’ pet portrait artist Hercule van Wolfwinkle is supporting local people experiencing homelessness throughout March with another incredible fundraising activity – to benefit the work of Turning Tides Homelessness and StreetVet.

    For 25 days, Hercule is walking 20 miles from his hometown in Worthing (where Turning Tides Homelessness is based), to Brighton – his nearest StreetVet outreach centre. A total of 500 miles. On arrival in Brighton (well Hove, actually!), Hercule draws his pet portrait for the day before setting off on the walk back home.

    He’s now got more miles behind him than in front as he finishes his 14th walk. 

    Hercule Van Wolfwinkle’s pet portraits have been described as ‘hilarious’, ‘cute’, ‘endearing’, and even ‘rubbish’. But however you choose to describe them, there is no denying that they have become something of a phenomenon since Hercule posted his very first portrait on Facebook back in the summer of 2020. 

    Since then, he has raised over £475,000 for charity by drawing pet portraits for free, with the request that people donate to the charities if they are able to. The next target - £500,000 is in sight. And that 500 inspired his latest challenge. 

    It's also, of course, the distance The Proclaimers would walk for someone they love......and Hercule loves these charities very much indeed! 

    To support Hercule, Turning Tides’ Income & Engagement team are walking alongside him on several of the walks. And have also undertaken to walk 500 miles between them – another achievement reached on 16th March. 

    Supporters wishing to donate to Hercule’s Turning Tides justgiving page – and be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets to see The Proclaimers, can go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/hercule-van-wolfwinkle-500milesforturningtides?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=020 


  • 23 March 2026 2:00 PM | Anonymous

    Missing or Destroyed Wills: Presumptions, Proof, and the Probate Battles That Follow.

    Few probate disputes are as emotionally charged or legally complex as those involving missing or destroyed wills.

    When a person dies and their will cannot be found, families face uncertainty: Did the deceased intentionally destroy it to revoke it? Was it lost by accident? Did someone else interfere? Or was it simply misplaced in the course of life?

    The law applies a powerful presumption: if a will was last known to be in the testator’s possession and cannot be located after their death, the court assumes it was destroyed intentionally.

    This presumption can significantly alter how the estate is distributed, particularly if the testator’s intentions in the missing will differed from intestacy rules or previous wills.

    These cases often involve suspicion, family conflict, and allegations of wrongdoing, requiring careful evidence gathering, sensitive handling, and a clear understanding of the legal principles involved.

    Why Disputes Over Missing or Destroyed Wills Are Increasing

    Several social trends have contributed to a rise in disputes involving missing or destroyed wills:

    1. More people keep wills at home – Many store their wills in drawers or filing boxes rather than with solicitors, increasing the risk of loss or accidental destruction.
    2. Increased mobility and multiple residences – Frequent home moves or multiple properties can lead to misplaced wills.
    3. Cognitive decline and vulnerability – Elderly individuals with dementia or other impairments may unintentionally destroy or misplace important documents.
    4. Family tensions and blended families – Strained relationships can lead to suspicions of interference or destruction.
    5. Greater awareness of legal remedies – Families now understand that a missing will does not automatically mean intestacy, leading to more challenges and claims.

    The Legal Presumption: Was the Missing Will Revoked by Destruction?

    The starting point in any missing‑will case is the presumption of revocation.

    When a will was last known to be in the testator’s possession and cannot be found after their death, the law assumes the testator destroyed it with the intention of revoking it.

    Although this presumption is strong, it is not absolute.

    It may be overcome by evidence showing that the will was lost accidentally, that the testator did not intend to revoke it, that someone else destroyed it, that the testator lacked the capacity to revoke it, or that a copy exists which accurately reflects the testator’s intentions.

    The responsibility for proving that the missing will should still be upheld rests with the person seeking to rely on it.

    Rebutting the Presumption: What Evidence Can Prove a Missing Will?

    Courts take a holistic approach when deciding whether the presumption can be challenged.

    They consider why the will went missing, the testator’s behaviour, and all available evidence.

    1. Statements by the deceased – If the testator told others that the will was valid or expressed how they wanted the estate distributed, courts give weight to consistent and recent statements.
    2. Evidence of accidental loss – Wills can be misplaced during moves, hospital stays, or periods of ill health.
    3. Evidence of third-party interference – Courts may consider whether someone with motive and opportunity destroyed or removed the will.
    4. The testator’s capacity – If the testator lacked capacity at the relevant time, they may not have intended to revoke the will.
    5. Solicitors’ files and copy wills – Copies or detailed attendance notes can help reconstruct the testator’s intentions.
    6. The testator’s habits and personality – Courts consider whether the testator was organised, careful with documents, or prone to misplacing items.

    Proving a Copy Will in Probate

    When a copy of a will exists, the court may admit it to probate if it is satisfied that the original was properly executed, that it was not intentionally revoked, and that the copy accurately reflects the contents of the original document.

    Establishing this requires detailed supporting evidence, often including the solicitor’s file, witness statements, and any contemporaneous records that shed light on the will’s creation and the testator’s intentions.

    Although courts approach missing‑will cases with caution, they remain pragmatic; where the evidence strongly indicates that the testator intended the will to remain effective, a copy may be admitted even in the absence of the original.

    Common Scenarios in Missing Will Disputes

    1. The will kept at home disappears – A testator kept their will in a drawer or filing cabinet but after their death, the family cannot find it. Accidental loss is plausible, but suspicion arises if a family member with motive had access.
    2. The will destroyed by mistake – The testator may accidentally discard it, confusing it with old papers.
    3. The will destroyed by someone else – Rare but serious; proving this requires evidence of motive, opportunity, and behaviour.
    4. The testator believed the solicitor held the will – Some testators assume their solicitor holds the original when in fact they took it home. If the will cannot be found, the presumption may apply unless evidence shows the testator believed it was safely stored.
    5. The testator lacked capacity – Cognitive decline may lead to accidental destruction without intent to revoke.

    Evidential Challenges

    Missing‑will cases present significant evidential challenges because the court must reconstruct events without the benefit of the testator’s own account.

    This involves a careful examination of family dynamics, the testator’s behaviour, the chain of custody of documents, the credibility of witnesses, and the reliability of their memories.

    Emotions often run high, and allegations of wrongdoing can permanently damage family relationships, which is why practitioners must approach these disputes with both sensitivity and objectivity.

    The Role of Suspicion and Family Dynamics

    Suspicion and strained family dynamics frequently play a central role.

    Disputes are particularly common where one beneficiary stands to gain substantially from intestacy, where a family member had access to the will, where the will favoured someone outside the immediate family, or where the testator was vulnerable or isolated.

    Courts are careful to distinguish suspicion from evidence and will only intervene when credible proof supports the allegations.

    Practical Steps for Families and Executors

    For families and executors facing a missing‑will situation, several practical steps can help.

    A thorough search should be carried out, including the testator’s home, personal papers, solicitors’ offices, banks, and anyone who held earlier wills.

    Evidence should be gathered as early as possible, as statements from friends, carers, and professionals can be invaluable. All relevant documents—such as copies, drafts, letters, or notes—should be preserved to assist in reconstructing the testator’s intentions.

    Seeking legal advice promptly is essential to avoid missteps and ensure that evidence is properly protected.

    Mediation is also worth considering, as it can help resolve disputes without escalating conflict or causing further family division.

    Conclusion

    Missing will disputes combine legal complexity with human drama.

    Courts must balance presumptions, evidence, and fairness while navigating family tensions and emotions.

    For families, a missing will can be bewildering and distressing. For practitioners, these cases demand meticulous evidence gathering, strategic thinking, and sensitivity.

    The key lesson: a missing will does not automatically lead to intestacy.

    With the right evidence and careful handling, it is often possible to prove the testator’s true intentions and ensure their wishes are respected.

    If you are facing uncertainty about a missing will or a potential probate dispute, our team is here to help.

    Speak to our contentious probate team by calling 01903 229999 or email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk today.


  • 16 March 2026 9:26 AM | Anonymous

    The Sherrards Academy UK Employment Law Course

    CPD accredited training initiative which delivers bite-size employment law/HR related courses to line managers and HR professionals.

    With the Employment Rights Act 2025 receiving Royal Assent in December 2025, the UK is preparing for one of the most significant overhauls of employment legislation in recent years. Although the new requirements will be introduced in stages, organisations need to be ahead of the curve — understanding the direction of reform, anticipating organisational impact, and ensuring policies and practices remain compliant.

    As a leading specialist UK employment law firm, Sherrards brings unparalleled legal expertise directly into training opportunities. Each module of our Sherrards Academy UK Employment Law Course is delivered live by a highly qualified employment law solicitor with hands‑on experience advising employers on complex legal issues. This ensures every session is legally robust, fully up to date, and focused on the real‑world challenges faced by today’s HR teams.

    The course comprises eight core modules, delivered across four one‑hour live webinars, each running from 12:00 to 13:00 via Zoom.

    Course Schedule

    Webinar 1 – Tuesday 28th April                                                        

    • Unfair Dismissal
    • Discrimination and Harassment

    Webinar 2 – Tuesday 5th May

    • Disciplinary Procedures
    • Handling Grievances

    Webinar 3 – Tuesday 12th May

    • Performance Management & Capability
    • Short‑ and Long‑Term Sickness Absence

    Webinar 4 – Tuesday 19th May

    • Flexible Working
    • Redundancy

    Why HR professionals and those in line management should attend:

    • Delivered by specialist UK employment law solicitors, ensuring absolute legal accuracy and best‑practice guidance.
    • Highly practical content, focused on applying the law confidently in everyday HR scenarios.
    • Essential knowledge for all HR and line management roles, from early‑career practitioners to senior HR leaders and management keen for a formal refresher.
    • Interactive and engaging format, with opportunities to ask questions and explore real‑world examples.
    • CPD Accredited, certified by the CPD Certification Service as conforming to continuing professional development principles.

    Cost

    The cost of attending our 15th Cohort is frozen at £750 + VAT per delegate. We offer discounts on multiple bookings however please note a maximum of 3 delegates per organisation may attend each training cohort.

    Find out more and secure your place today and ensure you are equipped with the up‑to‑date legal knowledge every UK HR professional and line manager must have.

    www.sherrardsacademy.com


  • 04 March 2026 12:24 PM | Anonymous

    Local BAFTA-winning animator Laurie Rowan creates playful new identity for Worthing Festival 2026

    Worthing’s biggest arts celebration returns this June with a bold new visual identity created by internationally recognised animator and director Laurie Rowan.

    The team behind Worthing Festival has unveiled the official artwork and dates for 2026, marking the next chapter for the town-wide celebration following a successful inaugural year under independent leadership.

    Fringe events will run from 1–30 June 2026, with the main Festival taking place 19–21 June 2026 in Homefield Park.

    A playful portrait of Worthing

    Created in Laurie Rowan’s trademark style of joyful, character-led illustration, the 2026 identity celebrates community, creativity and connection.

    Rowan, who is based locally, designed a playful cast of characters representing the spirit of the festival and the people who make it happen. Known for building modular, expressive figures in animation software, Rowan adds an unexpected twist, layering real wood textures into his digital creations, so that even the most surreal animated forms feel grounded in natural material.

    The result is a vibrant, tactile world that feels both contemporary and rooted – a fitting reflection of Worthing’s growing creative community.


    Laurie Rowan said:

    “I wanted to create something that felt joyful, welcoming and distinctly local. The festival is about people coming together – performers, audiences, families, artists – so building a playful community of characters felt like the perfect way to represent that energy.”


    Laurie Rowan

    Laurie Rowan is an animator, illustrator, director and art director known for his distinctive style and unique approach to characterisation and playful modular design.

    He began his career as a studio-based creative lead before becoming a freelancer, creating work for major clients including the BBC, Channel 4 and Disney.

    His projects have achieved numerous accolades, including a Children’s BAFTA win, nomination and a Lovie Award. In recent years, his work has gained international recognition, featured by leading design publications and included in “Ones to Watch” lists worldwide.

    Rowan has created commissions for brands including Google, Microsoft, MTV, The New York Times and The New Yorker. His work has received critical acclaim, including a Young Directors Award nomination and multiple Vimeo Staff Picks, and has amassed more than 925 million views online.

    He is represented by Nexus Studios for direction.Despite his international profile, Rowan remains closely connected to Worthing’s creative scene.


    Worthing Festival, building on a breakthrough year

    Worthing Festival builds on the success of 2025’s inaugural year after taking over from the local council.

    Last summer saw Homefield Park transformed for two days of live music, art installations, local food and drink, and roaming entertainment, with the festival even visiting the local hospital children’s ward to bring performances directly to young patients.

    The festival celebrations also included a community parade mid-June, culminating in a street party to celebrate the Worthing Festival month.

    In 2026, the festival returns bigger and more ambitious, with more than 50 bands, performers and artist groups spanning locally-based, national and international talent — from local, emerging voices and young creatives to established professionals. Audiences can expect expanded creative workshops for adults and children, including dedicated children’s sessions at The Haven and a brand-new children’s tent within the festival site. Across the weekend, visitors can explore even more site-wide art installations, alongside the return and expansion of the immersive Sound Garden arts trail. The festival site will also open on Friday afternoon for a special neurodiversity-friendly, relaxed afternoon before the bands start on Saturday – offering access to the arts trail for people to experience the festival at a gentler pace. Enhanced bar facilities will increase capacity and speed of service, supporting a growing audience. The much-loved Fringe community parade and street party will return and kick off the month-long celebrations, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to building, growing and developing an inclusive cultural programme for the whole town.


    A town-wide Fringe throughout June

    Worthing Festival Fringe runs from 1–30 June 2026, supported by the Festival team.

    The Fringe hosts events across venues throughout the town, all promoted via the official website to help increase footfall and visibility for local businesses and creatives. Anyone can register an event as part of the Fringe, making it one of the most open and accessible cultural platforms in the region.

    Jennifer Left, Creative Director said,

    “After the incredible response in 2025, we’re thrilled to be growing the festival for 2026. Laurie’s artwork perfectly captures the warmth, creativity and playful spirit of Worthing. This year is about celebrating our growing community and making June a month the whole town can be proud of.”

    Dates for the diary

    Worthing Fringe: 1–30 June 2026
    Worthing Festival: 19–21 June 2026
    (Homefield Park – Friday evening opening with art installations, food and drink)

    Further programme announcements will follow in the coming months.



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