Fernhurst, West Sussex

Fernhurst, West Sussex, has won the Communications category for the South England region of the 2008 Calor Village of the Year® award.

The West Sussex village of Fernhurst, with a population of approximately 2,750, considers itself to be a special place to live for three main reasons: its strong sense of community, a strong level of self-sufficiency, and a willingness within the community to change and absorb new people and ideas.

With some strong leaders in the village, the community is adept at moving projects forward. Villagers possess a range of skills and occupations and they are prepared to use these to the benefit of all, reinforcing the strong sense of cohesion present within Fernhurst, which is particularly impressive considering the village’s close proximity to a sizable commuter town.

A living and working community, the village shops and the Fernhurst Centre act as a magnet for people from surrounding communities. There are more than 40 community groups serving young and old alike.

In terms of business, following the closure of a major employer five years ago, the village has been forced to adapt, as a result becoming more independent and resourceful.

With a total of 70 small businesses in the community, a Business Club has been established to both support these businesses and to ensure that the community as a whole benefits as much as possible from their presence.

The small businesses play an important role in village life. Many of them act as community hubs where information about upcoming activities and events can be passed on.

The Fernhurst Centre particularly encourages this by offering tea and biscuits as well as broadband access and professional training courses.