Review of 2013
New Staff and Promotions
We have taken on a number of new members of staff this year (with several more to come) to add to our existing professional team. Andrea Fear joined the Family Department as secretary to Nicholas Dennis in Eastbourne; Gill Rutherford joined the Family Department as secretary and assistant to Carolyn Richards at our Hailsham office; Joelle Cornwall joined the firm as a trainee legal executive in Eastbourne and Ann Denyer, as a secretary and conveyancing assistant at Hailsham – both working within the Property Department, and Emma Langley has joined the Civil Litigation department as a trainee solicitor.
Other members of staff have kindly agreed to alter their roles within the firm and others, to move offices either from or to our head office in Eastbourne, or between our two branch offices in Hailsham and Polegate, all with the intention of improving our services to our clients.
This year has also seen two internal promotions with Fiona Gausden being appointed Office Manager and Hayley Matthews, our Finance Manager.
Examination Success
A number of staff members have passed examinations with the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX). Anna Clarke and Karen Hooker passed level 6, Tracey Pugh passed another stage at level 3 and Danielle Archer achieved a Distinction in her first year examinations. We congratulate them all on their fantastic achievements.
Property Advice Surgery
Jacqueline Penfold and Neisha Taylor took part in a Property Advice Surgery in conjunction with Chartered Surveryors and Managing Agents, Ross and Co. The event provided free consultations on any matters relating to the management of residential blocks of flats and extending the terms of leases.
Sussex Over 50’s Show
Hart Reade attended the very popular Sussex Over 50’s Show. This event was held over two days at the Eastbourne Winter Garden. Thought to be one of the largest over 50’s lifestyle shows in the South East, we were pleased to meet with the public on our stand and to discuss the range of services we provide. A free prize draw was held with tea for two at the Grand Hotel, or the preparation of a Will, at no charge.
Let’s Do Business
The firm attended the annual Let’s Do Business show also held at the Eastbourne Winter Garden. This is a business to business event which provides an excellent opportunity of meeting with new and existing contacts. Once again a free prize draw was held for tea for two at the Grand Hotel, or a free Will.
Polegate Older People Information Day
The Polegate office took part in the annual Older People Information Day. The event is arranged by Wealden District Council and provides information about services in the Polegate area, including benefits and pension support, local food deliveries and how to keep active and healthy. Hart Reade were also on hand to offer advice on legal matters. The day was well attended and a free prize draw was held for a luxury hamper, or a free Will.
Hart Reade Summer Party
The firm’s staff from all three of our offices came together in July on the occasion of our summer party. We enjoyed strolling along the promenade on Eastbourne seafront followed by supper at The Beach Deck restaurant.
Women in Business Awards
Hart Reade sponsored the Women in Business Awards for the 3rd consecutive year. This event celebrates the contribution women in business make locally, and also recognises those businesses which provide all of their staff with equal opportunities to succeed. The evening was a great success and gave women in business the opportunity to shine and share their achievements.
Eastbourne Business Awards
Hart Reade were proud to win the Employer of the Year award at the Eastbourne Business Awards. This is the second consecutive year the firm has been awarded this accolade. We were pleased to accept this award, which is a reflection on the excellent team we have across all three branches of our firm.
Hailsham Drinks Reception
The Hailsham office held their annual Christmas drinks reception at the beginning of December. Local business people were in attendance and a business card raffle was offered on the night.
Polegate Dickensian Christmas
Hart Reade operated a stall at the Polegate Dickensian Christmas event in December. A tombola, ‘guess the weight of the cake’ and ‘name the bear’ games were provided, with all proceeds going to Children with Cancer charity in Polegate, and St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Eastbourne. The event was very well attended and Santa made his arrival courtesy of Southern Railway. We are pleased to announce that we raised £180.60.
Hart Reade Christmas Party
The firm’s Christmas party is taking place once again at La Locanda del Duca restaurant in Eastbourne. The members of staff from all of our three offices will come together, at this festive time of year to enjoy lunch before our offices close for the Christmas holidays.
Charity
Hart Reade has been raising funds for the Polegate charity ‘Children with Cancer’ throughout this year. Staff have arranged a number of fundraising events including a Wimbledon raffle, a ‘Puddings and Pies’ day and a Halloween treat sale. The firm also operates a charity library for staff to borrow books in return for a small donation, and a loose change jar. This year, replaced computer equipment was given away in return for a donation to this charity. We are pleased to announce that, to date, we have raised £437.00.
The Under Ground Theatre, Eastbourne
We continue our support for the theatre which is located under the central library. The venue is run entirely by volunteers and offers an extensive programme including drama, comedy, jazz, open stage nights, art exhibitions and more. It is also home to the Eastbourne Arts Centre and is used by many of the various art groups in the town.