History
Ashington, located within the Horsham District of West Sussex, England, stands on the A24 road, 3 miles north-east of Storrington. This village and civil parish has a land expanse of 805 hectares. The 2001 census revealed a population of 2,351 people distributed across 905 households, with 1,286 being economically active. By 2011, the population increased to 2,526.
Prominent features and services:
- The historic Anglican parish church, dedicated to St Peter and St Paul, stands tall in Ashington.
- In 2001, Ashington received two awards in the Calor Village of the Year competition for Business and Community Life, and then bagged the overall title for the Southern region in 2003.
- Metrobus route 23 connects Ashington to places like Worthing, Horsham, and Crawley.
Sports in Ashington: The village takes pride in the Ashington Cougars football club, which accommodates teams from under 6 to under 16. These teams compete in the Horsham and District Youth Football League. Founded in 1999, the club achieved Charter Development status with Sussex FA in 2009.
Their dedication to player and community development was recognized in 2011, where they were finalists in the Sussex “Sports Club of the Year” awards.
Historical Glimpse: Ashington’s history dates back to times when it was part of Washington until around 1190. It underwent several boundary adjustments between 1882 and 1971, resulting in various land area figures. Significant roads traversed the parish, acting as important connection points.
The Roman Greensand Way and the Horsham-Washington road are notable examples.
In 1622, Washington saw its first alehouse-keeper. The Red Lion Inn, a prominent establishment on Ashington Common, has roots possibly dating a century earlier. Just across, the Swan Inn once stood, but closed its doors by 1920, marking the end of an era.
Ashington’s St Peter and St Paul church, dating to the 13th century, was significantly rebuilt in 1872. Originally a chapelry of Washington, Ashington became its own rectory by 1190. Few church features predate the 1400s, but its design hints at 13th-century origins.
The church’s east and west windows have early 15th-century designs. In 1871-72, renovations added a south aisle and porch. By 2009, modern updates like a kitchen and new chairs were introduced.
Roman ruins are near All Saints church in Ashington and Buncton Manor. The medieval era had few builds, with Church Farm House as an exception. Between 1816-1840, many houses appeared on the high road. Ashington grew significantly in the 20th century.
1086 records for Buncton showed more tenants than Ashington. The area is now Wiston village.
Ashington, with its rich tapestry of history, amenities, and community spirit, remains a cherished locale in West Sussex.
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