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.

13. Lindfield

Part of an oak tree fell on a house in The Welkin, Lindfield Photo: National World

Dave Edwards, Martin Galbraith (centre with chain saw), Barrie Galbraith (second from right), Mayor Martin Ingebretson (right) Photo: National World

Stanford Avenue in Hassocks Photo: National World

Adam and Frances Phelps at Redwood Drive, Haywards Heath Photo: National World