In photos: a look back at the Great Storm of 1987 in Mid Sussex on its 39th anniversary

It’s been 39 years since the great storm of 1987 hit the Mid Sussex district.

By Lawrence Smith

Published 16th Oct 2023, 10:14 BST

Updated 15th Oct 2026, 10:23 BST

The extratropical cyclone battered the area overnight from Thursday, October 15, to Friday, October 16, pulling down trees and damaging property.

The country-wide cost of the clean-up was £1billion and 15 million trees were lost.

West Sussex bore the brunt of the storm and thousands of UK homes were left without power for days.

In this gallery we take a look at some of the sights in Mid Sussex after the devastating event.

5. Burgess Hill

The winds ripped off the roof of 86-year-old Mary Birchmore's home in Newport Road, Burgess Hill Photo: National World

A huge conifer came to rest on Barry McMenamin's house on the corner of Alexandra Road and Ferndale Road, Burgess Hill Photo: National World

Friends and neighbours help make a house safe in Hassocks Photo: National World

Lindfield Common after the Great Storm of 1987 Photo: National World