Very sad news.

Funeral Arrangements 

Rupert's funeral will be held at All Saints Church in Waldron, on 8th June at 11.15am. Parking will be limited but there will be parking at the Lucas Hall, The Street, Waldron, TN21 0RB

Rupert Simmons

It is with great sadness that directors of the Heathfield Partnership announce the death of Rupert Simmons, who for many years was chair of the Partnership and our sister charity Wealden Works. 

Rupert worked tirelessly for the community - as a County Councillor representing  the Heathfield & Waldron ward which includes Mayfield & Five Ashes and as Lead Member for the Economy on East Sussex County Council. 

He served on several Boards and Representative Groups including groups representing South East Employers, the Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee and on the Regeneration Committee for Uckfield Town. 

It was for Heathfield and Waldron however that Rupert demonstrated consistent passion and determination. He worked endlessly behind the scenes to secure the future of the Youth Centre and for many years was a Governor at Heathfield Community College. 

He recognised the challenge for young people moving from education into work and helped establish Heathfield Works to provide practical support for young people to secure jobs and careers with many local businesses. The success of this venture enabled expansion into neighbouring Wealden towns helping even more young people to fulfil their potential. 

As Chair of the Partnership he led the work on rejuvenating the High Street and campaigned hard to retain free parking across Wealden as essential to sustain the health and vibrancy of our High Street. His role in bringing together businesses, charities and public sector in a co-ordinated and consistent network has been instrumental in improving services for residents young and old.

Beyond this Rupert was regularly to be seen supporting local community and charity events and was a well-known face about town in many circles. He will be greatly missed both for his professional and courteous approach and for his friendly encouragement and inspiration. 

Further details of funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced as soon as they are available for those wishing to pay tribute to Rupert’s life of service to Heathfield and Waldron.

Welcome to www.heathfield.net the website serving Heathfield in East Sussex and surrounding villages in the parish of Heathfield and Waldron.   This is a service provided by the Heathfield Partnership Trust Ltd, a charity.

Heathfield is twinned with Forges-Les-Eaux, France.