Bexhill News, April 2024, Issue 22

WELCOME

THE POOR state of the roads in Bexhill is a hot topic right now and quite right too. In a nutshell they are an absolute disgrace.

Every time a pothole is repaired it seems another magically appears just a short distance away with drivers having to regularly take evasive action to avoid sustaining damage to their vehicles.

Running a car these days is an expensive business and the last thing anyone needs is additional repair bills.

Excuses simply won’t do. What we need is action to get our roads repaired and properly maintained to ensure a smooth journey.

As we approach summer it is vital our roads are kept in good order for the benefit of residents and tourists alike.

Admittedly repairs are being carried out in some areas but in many cases simply not quickly enough and that is the problem.

Let’s take as an example the junction at the bottom of Bolebrooke Road which leads onto the seafront. Work was started several weeks ago and initially it seemed steady progress was being made.

But then it stopped, barriers were erected and workers have only been conspicuous by their prolonged absence.

We all pay our taxes and all we demand in return is good service from the relevant authorities. At present our roads are failing to deliver.

Kim Mayo, editor

THE TEAM

PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

KIM MAYO – REGIONAL EDITOR kim@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

HSIN-YI LO – REGIONAL EDITOR hsinyilo@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

LYLE ACOTT – ADVERTISING SALES sales@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

VIKTORIA COWLEY – FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS viktoria@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

MIKE LEGG – SPORTS REPORTER sports@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

DEAN COOK – PRODUCTION dean@regionalmediagroup.co.uk

READ ME, SHARE ME, THEN RECYCLE ME!

Projects to benefit from government funding are confirmed

CONSERVATIVE MP for Bexhill and Battle Huw Merriman has welcomed the confirmation of a number of projects which will benefit from £20 million worth of Levelling Up Partnership government funding and support.

Last March, Rother was named by the Government as one of 20 new Levelling Up Partnership areas which would benefit from bespoke placebased regeneration.

Since then, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has carried out extensive consultation with the local MP, local authorities, business, and voluntary sector organisations to finalise a list of projects which are set to gain from the package of direct government funding and support.

The projects include £5 million to establish a new health centre for Little Common, £9 million towards a brand-new King Offa Leisure Centre, over £2.1 million for Rother’s voluntary and community sector, including establishing a new Bexhill Community Hub, £1.7 million to support the visitor economy, £200,000 to support local high streets and introduce a system to tackle shoplifting, and £1.25 million to

more government investment and intervention to ensure that all residents, in both urban and rural areas, and especially the more deprived areas, have equal and fair

access to opportunities.

“Rother is a district which has long been overlooked or lost out to neighbouring towns in terms of

“These projects have been carefully selected to deliver improvements for residents’ health and well-being, strengthen local transport links, boost business and tourism, provide much-needed housing, support learning and skills, as well as extra help for children, young people, and

“I fully welcome this investment in Rother and am pleased to have been directly involved in identifying these projects which will now be progressed thanks to Levelling Up Partnership funding.

“I have a strong working relationship with many of the levelling up partners in Sidley, Bexhill and across Rother and I am confident these projects will deliver for local residents and businesses.”

The full list of funding being allocated so far is as follows:

• £9 million towards a brand-new King Offa Leisure Centre alongside building over 50 brand new homes in the area.

• £5 million to establish the new

Barnhorn Green Health Centre in Little Common, Bexhill to improve access to healthcare and £70,000 to make improvements to the Sidley Family Hub so parents and children can access the support they need.

• £2.1 million of funding for Rother’s voluntary and community sector, including improvements to existing community facilities and establishing a new Bexhill Community Hub.

• £1.7 million to support the visitor economy in Rother, including improving facilities at Camber Welcome Centre and new signage for Rother’s viticulture businesses.

• £500,000 (as part of a joint funding pot with the Hastings Levelling Up Partnership) to improve skills provision across both Hastings and Rother so that residents are equipped to gain well paid employment.

• £200,000 to support high street improvements in Bexhill, Rye and Battle and invest into an information sharing system to tackle business crime.

• £1.25 million for the completion of the much-needed Queensway Gateway Road.

No part of this newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole

Huw Merriman

with state of roads proving to be major obstacle

THE DEPUTY leader of Rother District Council and Labour councillor Christine Bayliss has launched a furious tirade over the appalling state of the roads in Bexhill.

Ms Bayliss said: “The state of the roads in our town are an absolute disgrace and it is time for action. There are no more excuses. It needs to be sorted out as an absolute priority.”

She has therefore issued an appeal for residents to come forward with information about the costs of vehicle repairs due to pothole damage.

Ms Bayliss added: “As the General Election approaches, the state of our roads is likely to be the number one issue for many voters in the Bexhill and Battle constituency.

“Cuts to council budgets, which has seen a spending squeeze on highway maintenance, is leading to hundreds more potholes appearing on local roads and more worryingly, new sinkholes are appearing right across Bexhill.

“Garages and car mechanics have been doing a roaring trade in car and van repairs, however, it’s the motorist who ultimately has to bear the cost.

“One angry resident, Sean from Bexhill, has come forward to tell us about the damage to his car when he hit a pothole in Herbrand Walk.

“The weld and a new tyre set him back £168. Then there is Felicity who hit a pothole in Watermill Lane that rendered her car undrivable. The callout charge for the garage and new tyre came to £170.”

what motorists in Bexhill are having to put up with and to be perfectly frank, it is totally unacceptable.”

Ms Bayliss and the Labour team on the council want to document the costs of repairs and plot the most expensive potholes on a “Map of Motoring Misery” and they are asking for the public’s help to pull together evidence.

She said: “The state of Bexhill’s roads is embarrassing and it feels like the Conservative-run East Sussex County Council has just given up.

“I’ve been waiting months for Highways to fix potholes I’ve reported

roads and hold our county councillors

Several residents in Bolebrooke Road have also expressed their outrage over a perceived lack of action after it was closed off for

One, who asked not to be named, said: “It is absolutely ridiculous, especially as it is a route which is used by many to access Bexhill seafront.

“There was an initial flurry of activity but despite the barriers closing off the road still being in place, nothing has been done for days on end. It is beyond ridiculous.”

Despite being on the opposite side of the political spectrum to Christine Bayliss, East Sussex County Councillor Ian Hollidge acknowledges that there is still plenty of work to be done, although he says

Conservative Mr Hollidge said: As your East Sussex County Council representative for Bexhill Town Centre, chairman of the pothole review board, resident and regular cyclist like everyone else I see each and every defect in our highway

“As poor Oliver in Dickensian times asked for more, I’m constantly asking the same. However, there is only so much money to go around.

“As you can see, we are adopting a Right First Time approach to roads in Bexhill having a large patch or complete resurfacing.

“There was at the last count a £300 million historic backlog of repairs, probably considerably more today.

“The pothole review shows we are looking at more efficient ways of working and not just about demanding more money.

“If anyone sees a defect, please report it to East Sussex Highways or your East Sussex County councillor.”

Councillor Christine Bayliss standing on pothole in Sackville Road, Bexhill

Road repairs in Bolebrooke Road, Bexhill

backdrop of some of the most aweinspiring scenery in the UK.

“Here is the opportunity to gain unforgettable experiences and stories that will stay with you forever, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.”

The challenge will take place between July 4 and July 7 and Steve and his daughter are already looking forward to taking to the mountains even though they are fully aware of what lies ahead.

“It is important to get yourself out there and take on challenges head on,” he added. “I believe in making a difference and this is the perfect opportunity to do so.”

The Trust, based in 140 High Street, Uckfield, has converted a Victorian former print-works into a respite facility, which is full of fun, colour and care for children living with disability.

It is a place where families can come together and know that they are not alone. Parents can meet other parents going through similar experiences and siblings can too.

Across from the open plan kitchen is the sensory corner with bubble tower, star curtains, sensory tiled floor and fibre optics.

Everything in the centre is very accessible so that all of the children can make good use of the facilities.

However, the charity is always in need of additional support which is why Steve, Daisy and so many others are doing as much as possible to raise additional funds.

Steve added: “The CRT Three Peaks Challenge is an amazing opportunity for anybody to test out their own limits while raising vital funds for the Children’s Respite Trust.

“Over three days the climbers, including us, will take on Ben Nevis (1,344 metres), Scafell Pike (978 metres) and Snowdon (1,085 metres) and we will all get to say we’ve hiked to the summit of some of the UK’s giants.

BEXHILL BUSINESS owner Steve Parker is preparing to embark on an extremely tough challenge to raise much-needed funds for charity.

Steve, who runs quirky interior design shop Plum Crazy in Parkhurst Road, is taking on the renowned Three Peaks Challenge in support of the Children’s Respite Trust along with his

daughter Daisy. He said: “It is a challenge I have

really needs support and we are aiming to raise as much money as possible for

The family events held at the centre take many forms from summer barbecues to coffee mornings. They tend to be held more in the school holidays and will often take on a theme, such as an Easter egg hunt or summer

“We took part in this challenge last year, and challenge is definitely the right word but for some reason we’ve decided to tackle it again, and rope in Daisy’s friend Tig for the ride.

“We hope that plenty of people will donate in support of our efforts as the charity is a truly wonderful one.”

To donate, visit: www.justgiving. com/page/daisy-steve-and-

Steve

BEAUTIFUL

VERTICAL

Funding to ensure Sidley Recreation Ground revamp goes ahead

SIDLEY HAS received a major boost with the news that a significant revamp of the Recreation Ground is going ahead.

Back in 2021 Heart of Sidley consulted with residents to find out whether they were in favour of converting the old changing rooms into a thriving community hub, from which everyone could benefit, and the response was an overwhelming “yes”.

As a result, Heart of Sidley and Rother District Council have been successful in obtaining Levelling Up Funds to make the dream a reality.

It has been confirmed that the pitch will remain a grass pitch, with improvements to make it level where possible with no fence, thus keeping the site open and accessible to the community at all times.

Heart of Sidley is also hoping to further improve the area with new equipment such as football goals, benches and other outdoor resources for all to be able to make the best use of the space.

accessible toilets, a cafe space, function rooms to hire for local groups and off-street parking spaces.

Labour councillor Sam Coleman, who represents Sidley on Rother District Council, is delighted that the revamp will now be taking place.

He said: “Sidley has so much to offer and confirmation that this work will definitely be going ahead is great news.

“I am committed to helping put Sidley firmly on the map and if everyone pulls together then that is definitely achievable, especially with other projects hopefully in the pipeline.

“This project is set to be another fantastic improvement in Sidley, following on from the BMX and Skate Park, and the St Mary’s cricket square and RC track.

“It will be a community hub fit for the future, making Sidley the go-to destination for sports and recreation in Rother. I am absolutely delighted and I know the Sidley community are fully behind it too.”

Cook, mayor of Battle Town Council; Baron Hendy of Richmond Hill, the chairman of Network Rail; and Steve White, the managing director of Southeastern.

Mr Merriman said: “This is a magnificent building, built in 1852 to recognise the significance of Battle. I really welcome this project, it’s fantastic to see the building being brought back into use for the community. I’d like to see this done across the country. I wish this initiative every success.”

community.

“I’m grateful for the support of the Railway Heritage Trust and all the other partners who have worked so hard on restoring this wonderful building and bringing it back into use.”

Steve White, managing director of Southeastern, said: “We want our stations to be an asset for the communities we serve, as connecting people and places helps us to add social value and support the local economy.

PHOTOS: ANDY JONES

THE DISUSED former station master’s house at Battle has been turned into a community hub.

The listed building, adjacent to the station ticket office, has been unused for many years, and had started to fall into disrepair.

But major work by the building’s

owner, Network Rail, and the local train operating company, Southeastern, has transformed it into a multi-roomed community space.

Grants were also received from the Railway Heritage Trust and the Community Rail Network.

The Southeast Communities Rail Partnership (SCRP), the community interest partnership which works

to connect local communities with their railway, has been instrumental in working with Battle Town Council to develop the space and find tenants for it.

In recent months, various groups have expressed an interest in using the space for the benefit of the local community.

The space was officially opened by

Vikki Cook added: “It is my honour and my privilege to accept these keys for the station masters house on behalf of the people of Battle.

“I would like to thank SCRP, Network Rail, the Railway Heritage Trust, Southeastern and many others for their work on this amazing renovation and redecoration, and fantastic asset for our town.”

Baron Hendy, chairman of Network

“Battle is one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture on the railway today, and we are very proud to be its current custodian.

“It looks fantastic following the recent restoration work we’ve carried out with our partners, and I’m sure our customers will really enjoy travelling through this stunning station and the new facility will prove to be invaluable to the local community here.”

Guard against glaucoma — regular eye exams can spot chronic condition

AN OPTICIAN has urged people across East Sussex to get their eyes examined to guard against a chronic life-long disease, as eye care professionals across the world vow to ‘get to grips with glaucoma’.

Managing Director, Jeremy Heynes, of Barracloughs the Opticians with seven practices across East Sussex, has spoken out ahead of World Glaucoma Week taking place from March 10 to March 16, to help raise awareness of a condition that is the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss over time. It is caused by an increase in pressure within the eye, which can damage the delicate nerve fibres that transmit visual information from the eye to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss and even blindness.

Jeremy Heynes (FBDO) said: “Glaucoma is a life-long, chronic disease that cannot be cured. Any sight lost due to glaucoma cannot be regained. But the good news is, with effective medical treatment, the damage can be slowed or even stopped in its tracks.

affecting an estimated 80 million people worldwide. In England, about 500,000 people have chronic openangle glaucoma but there will be many more unaware they have the condition. This is because glaucoma often has no symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular eye exams are so important.

Anyone can develop glaucoma but there are several risk factors which make glaucoma more likely.

Age — Primary open angle glaucoma becomes more common with age. It’s fairly rare below age 40,

times higher risk of primary open angle glaucoma compared to those of European origin. People of east Asian origin are at higher risk of developing primary angle closure glaucoma.

Family history — There is at least a four-times higher risk of developing glaucoma if you have a close blood relative who has it. So, if you have glaucoma, you should tell your relatives about the condition as they may need to be tested.

Short sight — People with short sight (myopia) are at increased risk of developing glaucoma.

Plans to build new hospice in Rother and Hastings in place

ST MICHAEL’S Hospice’s Board of Trustees has announced plans to build a new hospice in Rother and Hastings to provide enhanced end-of-life care and support to the community.

The Hospice was established 37 years ago in its current location, which was a former Victorian convent on Upper Maze Hill in St Leonards.

The Trustees’ decision reflects the ever-increasing need for hospice services and the challenge of providing them from an ageing building that was not designed for modern palliative care.

Dr Karen Clarke, chief executive of St Michael’s Hospice, said: “The local population is growing, and people are living longer, which means a greater demand for our services.

“Our base on Upper Maze Hill is in a beautiful location and holds a special place in the hearts of many, but parts of the building date back over 160 years which limits the options for developing it into the modern facility that our community needs.”

The project is still in its infancy, with architects currently assessing the potential of the current site.

Meanwhile, the hospice is exploring alternative suitable locations. A new site would require good transport links to ensure ease of access for patients, their families and friends, the hospice workforce, and the community.

The hospice has a provisional timeline of 2030 for the completion of the new building. While the overall cost of the project has not been established, the organisation will need to raise at least £10 million to support the construction of the new facility, in addition to ongoing operational costs.

Dr Clarke added: “Our vision is for a new hospice that not only meets the practical needs of patients, their families and friends, and our team but also captures the care and compassion that defines St Michael’s Hospice.”

Susan Munroe, Chairwoman of Trustees of St Michael’s Hospice, said: “The Board of Trustees is very proud of the wonderful care and support delivered by the St Michael’s Hospice team to the people of Hastings and Rother.

Our duty is to the community we serve, and we believe that our community deserves their care to be provided in the best possible environment. We are very excited at the prospect of creating a new facility that the whole community can take pride in to ensure a welcoming and comfortable place for people when they need it.”

EVENTS GUIDE

BOOK SALE

Saturday 27th April, 10am to 12 noon

Little Common Community Library, Community Centre, Shepherds Close, Little Common.

Hundreds of used books from stock, Cake and jigsaw stall, tombola. A library run by volunteers for the Community. Contact Wendy on 01424 258036

BEXHILL DOWN LADIES GROUP

Come and join this friendly group of ladies meeting every second Wednesday of the month, between 2-4 pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Cooden Drive TN39 4SX. (Lots of free parking and on bus route). We have entertainers, speakers, craft, fun and food sessions along with chatting, tea and biscuits! Do pop along to make new friends or contact for more information call Janice 07825 085 662 or email janice.takoor@hotmail.co.uk

BEXHILL STAMP & POSTCARD CLUB

St Augustin’s Church Hall, Cooden Drive, Bexhill, TN39 3AZ

Wednesday 24th April, at 7.30pm

Come and join us for some friendly company and an entertaining evening especially if you would like to know more and perhaps join us in our interesting and informative pastime. This month we are being treated to a visit from members of the Tunbridge Wells Society who will bring some displays and information that will keep us attentive and ‘perhaps’ quiet. It should only be interrupted by refreshments and the excitement of our breathtaking ‘star-dine’ raffle.

St. Stephens Church Hall, Down Road, Bexhill, TN39 4HD.

We have 20 Local makers selling their beautiful handmade items. Homemade cakes. Tea & coffee. Hot snacks are available. Free parking and free entry. Opens 10am to 2pm. Please do come along and support local.

CRAFT FAIR

Saturday 13th April from 10am - 2.30pm. FREE ENTRY. St. Barnabas Church, Sea Road, Bexhill, TN40 1JG

We have lots of lovely local crafters selling their beautiful handmade items. We also have a pop-up cafe with homemade cakes, sandwiches and soup. Tea & coffee available with a seating area. Free entry.

LITTLE COMMON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL PLANT SALE

Friday 10th May, 9am to 11am

Little Common Community Centre, (adjacent to the primary school)

Shepherds Close, Little Common, TN39 4SQ. All plants are locally grown by volunteers.

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Therefore,

All

RECEIVED BY 20TH OF ANY MONTH TO ENSURE INCLUSION.

Thriving college is rated as outstanding by inspectors

STAFF AT Bexhill Sixth College are celebrating having been awarded the top ranking by Ofsted following a recent inspection

The college is now officially rated as “Outstanding” which is the highest grade possible.

It was confirmed following a recent Ofsted inspection which looked into all areas of the college.

The Ofsted report highlights how “students thrive in the calm, purposeful and professional environment staff create at the college.”

It went on to describe how the students “relish” the positive culture the college offers and recognise how this makes the environment “highly conducive to learning”.

Students at the thriving college were described as being “highly motivated, arriving for lessons promptly and keen to start learning”.

The college was also confirmed as making a “strong” contribution to meeting skills needs, the highest description a college can achieve in

Principal Karen Hucker was absolutely delighted with the report’s findings which underlined a superb success story. She said: “To be recognised as ‘Outstanding’ is an extremely

of years of hard work, determination, and dedication from all staff.

“I am absolutely delighted for all the students, staff, and everyone connected with the college.

“We strive to provide the highest

college that welcomes, encourages, and embraces its students.

“This report is recognition of that and is something that not just the college, but the town of Bexhill and the surrounding area can be proud of.”

The report outlines the excellent learning and teaching for students.

Inspectors’ comments included: “Teachers plan students’ learning with exceptional care” and they “apply their expertise skilfully to inspire and motivate students.”

Commenting on the students, the inspectors said they become increasingly confident and fluent in their recall and application of the knowledge and skills they acquire as a result of the careful way teachers structure and deliver lessons.

Inspectors concluded that “the standard of teaching is consistently high across the college.”

The excellent range of courses offered by the college was noted along with the wide choice of social action and enrichment activities available.

The report confirmed that “staff provide students with plentiful opportunities to broaden their wider skills and knowledge, which prepares them well for life in modern Britain.”

Ms Hucker added: “Our staff are extremely proud of this recognition of their hard work and the support they give all their students to help them achieve their potential.

“We are also delighted that the excellent behaviour and commitment of our students was recognised by the inspection team.“

Students can still apply via the college website for the September intake online.

Bexhill College staff and students celebrate Ofsted’s ‘Outstanding’ grading

Plea for host families to help Ukrainians

RESIDENTS FROM

across East Sussex are being urged to consider becoming host families for Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their home country due to the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Ukrainian people still need our help, is the message from East Sussex County Council as Ukraine marks two years since the start of the full-scale invasion.

With Ukrainians still being forced to flee their homes and those already in the county looking for settled accommodation, residents are being asked to consider becoming a host family for those seeking refuge.

Since the beginning of the conflict in February 2022, more than 800 host families have welcomed more than 1,800 guests to the county, with local groups and organisations providing support and services to help them settle and achieve independence.

Hosts have played an invaluable role in helping Ukrainian guests to build an independent life in this country.

Kathryn Pogson

“I don’t speak any Ukrainian, but we got by with a lot of hand waving and gestures and with her reasonable grasp of English, we sort of managed, and it became funnier rather than a problem.

“You can’t follow a pattern, you

Fashion show for museum

guests to get involved with. It’s a really

THE POPPY Club in Little Common is hosting a spectacular fashion show later this month with all proceeds going towards the operating costs and maintenance of the various collections at Bexhill Museum, which remains one of the town’s best attractions.

The highly-anticipated event is taking place on Friday, April 25 with doors opening at 7pm and the show getting underway at 7.30pm.

Organisers have emphasised that entrance is by ticket only and they are expected to be snapped up quickly. They can be obtained from Wards in Devonshire Road, Willow in Sea Road or the museum which is in Egerton Road.

There will be men and ladies fashion as well as stalls which

Generous donation gives extra support to Sara Lee Trust

BEXHILL ROTARY

a generous donation to Sara Lee Trust, presenting them with a cheque for £1,000 to give the trust’s funds a great boost.

The Rotary club’s president, James Slinn, visited Nikki Hawes and the Sara Lee Trust fundraising team at the new Therapy Centre in Sidley.

When James took office last July, one of the charities he nominated that he would support was The Sara Lee Trust.

The donation comes from part of the total funds raised by Bexhill Rotarians from the generous public in their Christmas collections.

Sara Lee Trust’s Therapy Centre is tucked away behind the trust’s charity shop in Ninfield Road and provides a calm and therapeutic space right in the heart of Sidley.

The centre is mobility friendly and accessible to all, providing a serene and welcoming environment for individual and group therapies, plus counselling.

In addition, a delightful walled and sensory garden provides colour, scent

and interest all year round.

On presenting the cheque to Nikki, James said: “I hope the money will help the Sara Lee Trust continue their invaluable work supporting families coping with cancer related illnesses.”

is to score enough money for a new car motor so he can win the Grand Prix. When he encounters sexy swimming instructor Rusty, he considers staying around longer.

MIGRATION

29 MAR - 11 APRIL - 10:30 & 14:15

Creators of the blockbuster Minions, Despicable Me, Sing and The Secret Life of Pets comedies, invites you to take flight into the thrill of the unknown with a funny, feathered family vacation like no other in the action-packed new original comedy, Migration.

MADAME WEB

29 MAR - 4 APRIL - 19:30

In a switch from the typical genre, Madame Web tells the origin story of one of Marvel’s most enigmatic heroines. The suspense-driven thriller stars Dakota Johnson as Cassandra Webb, a paramedic in Manhattan who develops the power to see the future.

DUNE: PART TWO

5-8 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

The mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, to prevent a terrible future.

LES MISÉRABLES

10 & 11 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

After 19 years as a prisoner, Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) is freed by Javert (Russell Crowe), the officer in charge of the prison workforce. Valjean promptly breaks parole but later uses money from stolen silver to reinvent himself as a mayor and factory owner.

GHOSTBUSTERS: FROZEN

EMPIRE

12-18 APRIL - 14:15 & 19:30

The Spengler family returns to where it all started, the iconic New York City firehouse to team up with the original Ghostbusters, who’ve developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level.

Sara Lee Trust has been supporting people in Rother and Hastings, who are living with cancer, for more than

The trust is named after Sara, who was a former student at Bexhill College and Hastings College. She moved to London in 1979 and worked as a stylist in fashion photography.

In 1993, she was diagnosed with a sarcoma, a rare cancer, on her wrist and as part of the treatment, Sara had her right arm amputated and underwent chemotherapy.

During her treatment, Sara learnt about diet, relaxation and meditation at the Bristol Cancer Help Centre, now called Penny Brohn. Sara found her own dietician and spiritual healer in London, who supported her through the next two years up until the six weeks before her death.

Sara had spoken about how therapy had assisted her to live life to the full, and how important it is for cancer patients to access such therapies easily and conveniently.

When Sara passed away, her family and friends set up the Sara Lee Trust to carry on her vision to give better support to patients and their families. www.saraleetrust.org.

E: info@hailshampavilion.co.uk W: hailshampavilion.co.uk

DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS

19-21 APRIL - 19:30

This comedy caper follows Jamie, an uninhibited free spirit bemoaning yet another breakup with a girlfriend, and her demure friend Marian who desperately needs to loosen up. In search of a fresh start, the two embark on an impromptu road trip to Tallahassee.

LUCA - K4AQ

20-21 APRIL - 10:30 & 14:15

A coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca (voice of Jacob T remblay) shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, Alberto.

TREASURE ISLAND - AN EASTER ADVENTURE

10 APRIL - 14:00

Hailsham Pavilion is proud to be offering a brand new Easter Family Adventure!

Bursting with Swashbuckling Pirates, Mysterious Mermaids and Dotty Dames, this hilarious show has all the fun-raising elements you would expect. With a fabulous professional cast featuring the Magic of popular entertainer, Krazy Kev, it’s the must-see Easter holiday show for all the family to enjoy! Limited seats and only one performance…Booking Now! Show approx. 2hrs

TICKETS: £14.50-£16.50. GROUP TICKET

PRICE: £14.50-£54.00.

NT LIVE - NYE (EVENT CINEMA)

23 APRIL - 19:30

Michael Sheen plays Nye Bevan in a surreal and spectacular journey through the life and legacy of the man who transformed Britain’s welfare state and created the NHS. Confronted with death, Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan’s deepest memories lead him on a mind-bending journey back through his life; from childhood to mining underground, Parliament and fights with Churchill.

TICKETS: £15 & £13

Bexhill Rotary Club and The Sara Lee Trust Team

Fire services hold joint exercise to spread wildfire safety message

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES from East, West Sussex, Surrey and Kent held an exercise recently on the Ashdown Forest for a joint wildfire training exercise.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service organised the event, which provided the opportunity to test wildfire response capabilities and collaborative working.

There was no live fire on the day, but the incident simulated a rapidly developing fire at the base of a slope on open heathland.

Around 40 firefighters from across the four services responded to the mock scenario working together with our Joint Fire Control, a multiservice incident command team and local land managers, including the Ashdown Forest Rangers. Fire engines and specialist appliances were also utilised, including off-road vehicles, drone teams and a water carrier. Services will now work together to develop learning and recommendations and promote key messages to members of the public and landowners ahead of the wildfire season.

WILDFIRE ADVICE

• PREVENTION IS KEY: Don’t drop cigarettes or burning materials on dry ground, keep children away from lighters and matches, use designated barbecue areas and dispose of glass bottles and litter properly.

• PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR PROPERTY: Remove flammable materials from your garden, check for spaces where burning embers could become lodged, safely store flammable substances, and trim back shrubs or trees near your house.

• HAVE AN EVACUATION PLAN: Make sure you and others know what to do in the event of a wildfire. Don’t delay — if in doubt, get out, away from vegetation and smoke.

• WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A WILDFIRE: Stay calm, follow your evacuation plan, and always call 999 in the event of an emergency.

Historically, UK wildfires are most closely associated with Spring, and this exercise provides the opportunity to relaunch the ESFRS campaign ‘We’re wildfire ready, are you?’ focusing on wildfire safety, prevention, protection and how to respond in the event of an emergency.

Station Manager and ESFRS

Wildfire Lead Trevor Funnell said: ‘’This collaborative wildfire training exercise provided an invaluable opportunity for our teams to test our preparedness and resilience. Our crews honed their skills within a realistic simulation, demonstrating

Jobs fair at De La Warr is another resounding success

ONCE AGAIN, the annual Bexhill Jobs and Apprenticeship Fair at the De La Warr Pavilion proved to be a huge success.

The event, which took place in March, saw hundreds of people descend on the venue to investigate what opportunities were on offer from a wide variety of businesses.

Despite harsh economic times, there are still plenty of vacancies to be filled across East Sussex and there was certainly plenty of interest being expressed by would-be employees.

Bexhill and Battle Conservative MP Huw Merriman is a big supporter of the Jobs Fair, which was staged for the eighth successive year.

He said: “Everyone has worked extremely hard to ensure the Jobs Fair prove to be a big success once more and I was delighted to see so many people attend.

“There were 56 organisations in the room and each one had something to offer whether it be jobs, apprenticeships, training, work experience or essential skills to help those seeking their perfect job.

“I would like to thank everyone involved, especially the local

organisations who offered generous sponsorships. Once again it has proved to be a wonderful success story.”

Bexhill Chamber of Commerce and Tourism President Howard Martin was in attendance along with several other members of the organisation. He was delighted to see a bumper turnout once again despite the poor weather on the day.

He said: “Bexhill Chamber of Commerce were very pleased to once again be able to sponsor the annual Bexhill Jobs and Apprenticeship fair which is organised by the office of Bexhill and Battle MP Huw Merriman.

“Our CV review service was very well received and we were able to help nearly 60 candidates with their CVs and provide advice on their career pathways.

“We were particularly pleased to get firm commitments for interviews for several candidates and to get a young person direct access to an apprenticeship scheme run by one of the country’s biggest builders.

“The event was very well supported by many Chamber members among the 50 or so enterprises that took part.

“About 800 candidates visited the event during the day and everyone involved considered it a great success.”

Although Mr Martin was delighted with the response to the Jobs Fair, he emphasised there is still plenty of work to be done to ensure Bexhill can encourage more businesses both big and small to invest in the town.

He added: “We are certainly not going to rest on our laurels. As a town we are heading in the right direction but we need to continue to grow and thrive.

“It is great news that a large company like Peacocks has decided to open a branch in Devonshire Road. That is a step in the right direction and of course brings more job opportunities to the town.

“But there are still several vacant business premises in the town and the objective is to get them active again, and ongoing enterprises and preferably sooner rather than later.

“As we all know, Bexhill has plenty to offer but it is vital we are proactive rather than reactive.

“Work will continue to try to attract more businesses to our town and help it thrive. That is the priority.”

A very busy day at the Bexhill Jobs Fair

Conservative East Sussex County Councillor for Bexhill North Abul Azad, Howard Martin and Stewart Drew, chief executive of De La Warr Pavilion

Attendants at the Bexhill Jobs Fair at the De La Warr Pavilion

People

REDISCOVER THE FUN & FITNESS OF CYCLING

MOST OF us can remember our first bike and the feeling of joy it gave us to finally own a two-wheeled machine which would bring us so much joy as we learned to master balance, taking control and with it the freedom to move around wherever we chose to go.

So why should we opt for pedal power while eschewing where possible other modes of transport. For this, my first column for Bexhill News, I will attempt to provide some answers.

We all need transport to travel and n East Sussex we have to deal with old roads yet at the same time increasing traffic in the 21st Century.

So, how best to access jobs, shops, meeting up with friends and having fun without too much endeavour while also negotiating our increasingly clogged road infrastructure? After all, who wants to be stuck in a traffic jam on a blazing hot day?

The wheel has been around for approximately 5,000 years while bicycles were first introduced about 200 years ago.

Health and fitness are one of the main reasons for taking up cycling. In a nutshell, it is good for us.

Getting out and about on a bike enables us to fully enjoy our lives, whether it be to meet people for a chat or to help improve mental health, which is of course vitally

environment.

A motor vehicle can take up to 16 times more space than one bicycle and weigh up to 200 times more. They can cause damage to vegetation and because of their speed often prevent all forms of life from moving around safely.

Bikes do not pollute or emit toxic fumes, nor do they require a large, hard surface to move around and park.

Cleaning a bike is so far easier and cheaper with the additional bonus that there is no need to use complex

need while protecting the environment. Bicycles last for years when properly maintained and cared for and, in addition, there is no need to spend potentially hundreds of pounds on costly spare parts.

Bicycles never need refuelling as the only energy required to move about is by human endeavour; that is pedal power!

In short, cycling is carbon offsetting at its very best.

As concerns over climate change continue to grow, steps are continuing to limit the use of ‘gas guzzlers’ on our

New bikes can be purchased for less than £100 and although you can invest significantly more if you wish, there is also a thriving second hand market. Bicycles hold their price well and selling them on is usually very simple.

Maintenance costs are minimal and although insurance is not a requirement it is advisable that regular riders insure themselves via Cycling UK or an alternative provider just to be on the safe side.

Pedalling yourself to any destination

costs absolutely nothing and when you arrive parking is easy and, best of all, free.

There are many secure places with keycard entry and security cameras to ensure your pride and joy does not fall into the wrong hands.

Compare that to the cost of running a car which averages about £4,000 per year. So, if you want to travel while staying healthy in mind and body, help the environment, care for future needs by being sustainable and reducing expenditure then getting on your bike is the simple solution.

Cycling may not be the miracle cure for everything but it is a mighty fine start as far as I am concerned.

Many say that what you drive, ride and own shows of an individual style. Do you take note of how someone arrives at a destination and in or on what mode of transport and make an assumption about them?

Getting on your bike makes a statement about what you stand for, which is fun on two wheels while also enjoying the additional benefits to mind, body and spirit.

Next month I will tell you where to go on your bike by telling you about some of my own favourite destinations, and detail the clubs and groups in East Sussex who can help you on your journey.

Bexhill Wheelers and 1066 Cycle Group on ride out to Brown Bread Street, Ashburnham

PUZZLES

SPONSORED BY

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD WORDSEARCH – BREAKFAST

Cereal

Toast

Eggs

Coffee

Juice

Milk

Pancakes

Bacon

Fruit

Yoghurt

ANSWERS

ACROSS

6 Sedentary kind of General (8)

8 Something of little value (4)

9 Dogma (5)

10 Look up to (6)

11 Activity necessary for scaling Everest (4,8)

13 Disturbed men only met up for inactivity (12)

16 The — Flyer, first heavier-than-air powered aircraft (6)

18 “If It — Been For Love” (Adele song) (5)

19 It’s rolled towards a jack (4)

20 In a manner free from danger (8)

DOWN

1 Members of a flock (8)

2 Beautiful (6)

3 Car exhaust pollutants (12)

4 Organised group of criminals (3,3)

5 “The Sign of ---” (Conan Doyle) (4)

7 It brings one back to Earth (7,5)

12 Don’t mention it (3,2,3)

14 Business big shots (6)

15 Venerated townspeople (6)

17 Chamber (4)

CALLING ALL FRUSTRATED DOG OWNERS

ARE YOU STRONG ENOUGH TO WALK YOUR PUPPY?

HAS YOUR CUTE BUNDLE OF FLUFF TURNED INTO A TEENAGE TROUBLEMAKER WHO IGNORES AND EMBARRASSES YOU?

NEWSPAPER READER SURVEY LAUNCHED

IT’S YOUR time to give us your opinions on the town’s dedicated FREE newspaper.

Bexhill News is dedicated to reporting on all the local news as we approach almost two years old. We want to know what you think of this monthly publication so we can find out how to improve it and continue to offer you an incredible publication.

We’ve launched a reader survey which should take no more than a few minutes to complete and simply asks what you enjoy in the newspaper and what you’d like to see in any future editions.

Group Editor Paul Gibson said: “We launched Bexhill News to fill the gap to improve local news coverage and we have been overwhelmed by how the newspaper has been received locally. Almost all 12,000 copies are now picked up within ten days, which is incredible.”

He added: “The survey is a really important

exercise for us and allows us to find out what our valued readers enjoy and collate ideas and suggestions to help us develop. At the end of the day, it is a ‘community newspaper’; we feel it belongs to the town, so it’s only right we ask readers for some constructive feedback.”

To complete the survey, which only comprises of eight questions, simply either scan the QR Code here or visit https://bit.ly/BN-Survey-Feb24

ARE YOU CONFUSED, LACKING CONFIDENCE AND RUNNING OUT OF TIME TO FIX YOUR DELINQUENT PUP?

THEN SIGN UP NOW FOR MY ‘TAME YOUR TEENAGE TROUBLEMAKER’ TRAINING FOUR WEEK CLASSES.

Mondays at 7:30pm (evening class). Held at Pebsham Community Hub, or Friday’s held at St Stephen’s church 1pm (daytime class).

“I found Harriet very approachable, and she explained things clearly, I feel more confident and in control. The training answered all my concerns. Thank you for providing a fun filled 4 weeks of knowledge and reassurance.” Lisa and River

There’s only 4 spaces in every class, so every owner gets the personalised help they need. My classes are very popular, so you need to apply for a space visit: pawtasticgundogadventures.co.uk/teen-classes/ or scan the QR Code below.

KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

“April brings the primrose sweet, Scatters daisies at our feet” Sara Coleridge

SPRING IS now in full swing, and our gardens are full of promise. Fresh green foliage unfurls, fat buds develop, the grass starts growing in earnest and we should take every opportunity to get out into Nature and soak up the season-whatever the weather!

Here at Bates Green Garden, we enjoy planning, planting and curating our colour-themed Middle Garden. The planting in this area is always being reviewed to reflect the change of climate that we now experience so obviously. We also want to demonstrate current trends in horticulture and what better group of plants to do this with than dahlias?

They come in all shades and shapes and are so flamboyant and dramatic, just what we want in these summer borders.

Carolyn McCutchan, who originally designed and planted Bates Green Garden, put wildlife at the forefront of her plant choices. We therefore only choose the ‘single’ dahlias, which have one layer of petals forming the flowers. This is opposed to ‘doubles’ which some gardeners prefer as they are more showy and the flowers last longer as they cannot be pollinated and develop seed.

The ’double’ flowers are bred to replace the sexual organs of the plant with extra petals, this may look attractive but is frustrating for the pollinators that we garden for; bees, butterflies and hoverflies. These important insects are attracted to signals given off by the flower, the colour and perhaps the scent of the doubles but cannot easily locate the pollen or nectar due to the number of petals to navigate. This wastes important energy for these creatures and does not benefit them. We want our borders to be alive with insect activity and have therefore selected only single dahlias which include all the ‘Bishop’ cultivars.

Dahlias are pricey to buy but easy to bulk up at home by taking basal stem cuttings. When the tubers arrive, pot

them up into shallow trays with the tubers visible above the level of the compost. Place in a warm propagating unit, a windowsill would do, and watch them closely. Once the emerging shoots are about 7.5cms long, remove a few from each tuber with a very sharp knife. This cutting must include a small sliver of the parent tuber.

Pot them up immediately into some peat-free multi-purpose compost and place either in a propagator or in a warm place with a plastic bag secured around the pot with a rubber band. This will keep the moisture in.

Once they show signs of rooting and growing, they can be potted on, regularly fed and will flower this year for you. Why not give this a go in 2024? If you don’t remove every shoot from the parent tuber, you will have nothing to lose and may well end up with extra plants for free.

Hellebores are really enjoying themselves here this year. The wet weather suits them, and they appreciated the mulching they were given last autumn. The colours are so uplifting, but if you want to show them off as a centrepiece in your home you may find that they droop too readily in

a vase. The answer is to fill a decorative, shallow bowl with fresh mains water and then to float the blooms individually on the surface of the water. The display will last for a good while as long as you replace the water every week or so.

Now is a good time to buy hellebores in flower so that you can see exactly what you are getting. Visit a specialist nursery if you can or maybe go to a Plant Fairs Roadshow event. These are a collective of specialist nurseries who organise Fairs throughout the South East. You can order from them in advance and collect your plants on the day. Visit www.plantfairsroadshow. co.uk to find one near you. Gardeners are a creative bunch and

none more so than our WRAGS student, Emma Tee, who has been with us for one year. Whilst carrying out various pruning activities around the Garden, Emma collected many and varied lichen examples on some of the branches. She then created this beautiful piece of art which is on display in the Garden using only the materials that were collected on-site. We love it.

Come for a visit, we are open every Wednesday from 10-4pm, the Garden, Wildflower Meadow and Woods are so uplifting, you will be assured of a warm welcome and can enjoy homemade refreshments in our Barn.

THAI RESTAURANT REALLY IS SOMETHING EXTRA SPECIAL

Bexhill has a plethora of restaurants with varied menus catering for all tastes, so competition for customers is understandably fierce.

Everyone is well aware that running a restaurant is a precarious business with many failing within the first couple of years but fortunately many buck the doom and gloom merchants by making a real success in the local community.

My partner and I have already visited several restaurants in the town but we hadn’t had the chance to check out Thai Chava in Sackville Road.

However, our first visit was hastened when a friend, who had eaten there on several occasions, declared the food is

Therefore, the time was ripe for us to investigate for ourselves, especially as we are both big fans of Thai food.

We decided to celebrate my birthday at the restaurant and fortunately managed to book a table even though it coincided with Mothers’ Day.

Upon arrival the first good sign was that Thai Chava was buzzing with customers and it was immediately clear that the sole waitress on duty that night had her work cut out to keep up with the orders that were being taken throughout the evening, both for those eating at the tables and the many others who arrived to pick up their takeaway orders.

However, everything was being organised with military precision, so there was no agonising wait for the food

to arrive once we had placed our orders.

sugar guaranteed plenty of happy murmurings from the other side of the table.

Both dishes had perfect combination and balance of taste and aroma, without feeling bloated after finishing.

The menu is comprehensive and varied and the aromas emanating from the kitchen very swiftly made our tummies rumble.

We both opted for the same starter with the pork and prawn dumplings (a very reasonable £6.50), proving to be an ideal appetiser.

Silence ensued as we tucked in and they were, as we had been told by our friend, absolutely excellent.

The steamed dumplings consisting of pork, prawns and mushrooms, served with a vinegar soy sauce, and it absolutely hit the spot. In short, they were sensational.

The waitress, despite being incredibly busy, was attentive without being intrusive, which is always a big bonus

when you eat out, so top marks for that.

Following the starters we took a breather by ordering another couple of drinks before moving on to the mains.

It was time for the main courses and my partner, who eats oodles of noodles whenever the opportunity arises, unsurprisingly opted for the Pad Thai with chicken (£8.90).

I, being no expert, chose the beef in oyster sauce (£13.50) with rice and upon arrival it exceeded even my highest expectations. Stir-fried with broccoli and mushrooms, it certainly filled the gap magnificently.

Ditto applied to the Pad Thai noodles which, between mouthfuls, my partner declared were “perfect”.

The flat rice noodles served with egg, bean sprouts, spring onion and palm

We pride ourselves on using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create a range of dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate

Our chefs are passionate about cooking and ensure that each dish is prepared with care to bring out the unique flavors and textures of each ingredient

We

The premises provide an intimate setting without diners feeling overcrowded which is always a bonus on a night out.

Thai Chava is also perfectly located for those looking to dine out before a show at the De La Warr Pavilion as it is handily placed in close proximity to the venue, which hosts a number of high-profile events.

Extra praise also for the sheer array of dishes on offer as making a final decision on what to order took time for the simple reason that so many of them were incredibly tempting.

Those will, however, have to wait for our next visit and we both agreed that our return will certainly be sooner rather than later.

In a nutshell, Thai Chava simply could not be faulted. The food is reasonably priced, the service excellent and the location ideal.

It left us to ponder why we had taken so long to check it out, but, boy, we are really glad we did. Top marks all round.

Thai Chava, 48 Sackville Road, Bexhill, TN39 3JE

Telephone: 01424 219333.

Opening hours 5.30pm until late Tuesday to Sunday. Booking is advised.

LOCAL PROPERTY LAWYER JOINS FORCES WITH SETFORDS SOLICITORS

lawyer Chris Hoadley has left a local traditional law firm to form his own company and enter into a consultancy agreement with Setfords Solicitors.

Eastbourne-born Chris has 10 years experience in providing legal advice on residential property law to Hailsham, Bexhill

to enjoy.

Setfords are a UK top 100 law firm. Their model is to provide background resources to support a network of 500+ qualified lawyers covering all areas of law on a consultancy basis. This allows consultants to manage their own clients and cashflow without the risk and cost of starting up a new firm.

What services will be provided in Eastbourne and the

Chris is a Licensed Conveyancer who specialises in offering legal advice tailored to residential property. These services include Freehold and Leasehold Conveyancing, New Build and Park Home sales and purchases, Remortgages and Lease Extensions. Whilst Chris covers residential property, the network will allow his clients to access all other areas of law, so that a fully serviced law firm is provided through Setfords’ consultants.

Chris will be spending the working week balancing between his new home office, client call outs and the co -working space at the Foundry which is located within the new Beacon centre. He is looking forward to showing this hidden gem to his clients and

Opening hours

Chris can be flexible to the needs of the client. He understands that this may result in working longer hours some days, doing home visits, and not being tied down to a lunch break between 1-2pm, when most clients will want to get hold of him.

Why use Chris and Setfords

• Direct contact with an experienced qualified lawyer

• Responsive

• Limited overheads allowing the need for less volume and more quality

• Background admin support

• Supporting local

• Competitive transparent fees

Chris can be contacted on 01323

402542 and looks forward to assisting the local community with their property transactions.

Pad Thai Noodles

Pork and Prawn Dumplings

Beef with Oyster Sauce

Chris Hoadley, CH Conveyancing Services

CHAMBER ECHOES

We have the back of business in

BEXHILL CHAMBER has had a very busy month making sure we have the back of business and our community.

We have recently nominated two of our members for participation in the globally prestigious Kings Award for Enterprise. These are awards given out by Buckingham Palace to British businesses and other enterprises that excel in international trade, innovation, sustainable development or promoting opportunity through social mobility.

Kings Awards are the highest official UK awards of merit for business and are recognised around the World as a mark of excellence that can be worth hundreds of thousands of

pounds in new business opportunities.

The application process for a Kings Award and the scrutiny of applicants is rigorous but we are sure that the members we have nominated will more than meet the eligibility criteria and deliver outstanding applications.

Our Chamber will offer them any support they need to get through to the shortlist stage when it will be appropriate to make an announcement and celebrate their achievements.

Our Chamber were once again sponsors of the annual Bexhill Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair at the De la Warr Pavilion where over fifty enterprises came together to recruit, offer training, information seminars and advice to over eight hundred

delegates seeking opportunities. Our advisory team ran our very popular CV review workshops and were able to help guide about sixty people on their career pathways. It was particularly satisfying to help several people secure interviews at the fair and assist a young person directly into an apprenticeship.

For April our Chamber has been commissioned by East Sussex County Council to deliver an information seminar for the building trade on retrofitting energy efficiency improvements such as solar panels and ground source heat pumps during renovation, refurbishment and expansion building projects. There is an urgent need to upskill established trades providers and to

it comes to employability and highquality standards in the fast-growing sustainable retrofit market.

Bexhill Chamber is continuing to work with other local stakeholders to prepare the strategies that will be needed to deliver the £60m of Government Levelling Up funding that has been promised to Bexhill and Rother over the next ten years. We are particularly energetic in attracting business investment into our town centre with lots of interest in the empty bank buildings, renewed

Woollen Mill site. However, the biggest challenge we face is the dilapidation of many of the properties and the lack of investment incentives now that grant funding to bodies such as Locate East Sussex has been withdrawn or vastly reduced across the whole region. Bexhill Chamber is run by an executive team of volunteers who are entirely motivated by our passion for making Bexhill a great place to live, work and play while working with our members to bring prosperity to our town.

2018,

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2016,

Ford Tourneo Courier

2020, diesel, 1.5 Zetec, manual, 28,200 miles, only ONE owner from new, main dealer service history.

Volvo V40 Inscription

2018, T3, petrol, manual, 27,900 miles, only ONE owner from new, main dealer service history. ONTHLY

Fiat

Volkswagen Golf TSi

Peugeot

Peugeot 308 PureTech

BMW

Kia Ceed GDi ISG

2019, 1.0T, petrol, manual, 35,100 miles, only ONE owner from new, main dealer service history.

MINI

2019, 1.5, petrol,

Vauxhall

Toyota

Ford

Citroen C3

Ford

Seat

Peugeot

Honda

Ford

Ford C-Max Zetec 2018, 1.0 EcoBoost, petrol, manual, 65,100 miles, only ONE owner from new,

THE FOCUS REALLY NEEDS TO

INRECENT weeks there was only one topic on the news agenda as a plethora of headlines and stories focused on the Princess of Wales.

Any speculation about her health should, however, end now following her candid admission that she is suffering from an unspecified form of cancer.

Nevertheless, the conspiracy theorists and keyboard warriors sadly refuse to be silenced on social media despite her family’s plea to be left in peace.

Let’s look at the bigger picture for once and let sanity prevail. The conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Hamas plus the horrific attack on a concert hall near Moscow were still being superseded by blanket coverage of a “manipulated” photograph of the Princess of Wales and her children as she continues to recover from abdominal surgery and prepares to undergo chemotherapy.

possible light.

But they are by no means the only ones in the public eye to do so. Take, for instance, so-called Insta “stars” who spend hours attempting to raise their profile by posting endless pictures of themselves in various exotic foreign locations.

Remember the pictures of Kim Kardashian on a beach where her cellulite had “magically” disappeared? It is just another prime example of distorting the true picture. Basically, any photograph can be successfully manipulated if you are tech-savvy.

Of course, everyone wants to be viewed in a positive light but image is far less important than being true to yourself.

As a member of the Royal family, Kate Middleton understandably wants to look her best whether attending a high-profile function or being photographed.

If she then decides to add a few tweaks to a photograph of herself and her family then that is her prerogative and no business of ours.

Newspapers have been “tweaking” photographs for years prior to publication for years and I know that for fact having been working in the media for more than four decades. No-one ever batted an eyelid at the minor deception.

The initial furore culminated with the wife of the future King issuing a grovelling apology on social media for making a few Photoshop “tweaks” before the picture was released. Well, so what?

The frenzy which followed was beyond ridiculous. Has anyone criticising her

recently? It is awash with manipulated photographs. Check out the likes of Facebook and Instagram for proof positive that most of those posting pictures of themselves have benefited from digital “enhancement”.

Whether we like it or not, this is the world in which we now live. Social media rules the roost and will no doubt continue to do so for generations to come. Watching television recently something called a Google Pixel mobile phone was

featured during an advertising break. Apparently, this whizz-bang gizmo enables the user to substitute a more alluring image of oneself onto a group photo with friends or family.

Well, all fine and dandy if that floats your boat, but is it reality? No of course it is not, it is just a sign of the times in our increasingly image conscious world.

The Royals have a certain image to project to the general public and have, therefore, had to utilise social media to ensure they are presented in the best

The days of using a Kodak Instamatic camera of a Pentax ME-Super are long gone, especially with the proliferation of mobile phones equipped with in-built cameras.

You want to look like a movie star? Nowadays you can do at the click of a button. I hate being photographed. Always have and always will. But I would never “enhance” a picture of myself. I am me, warts and all, and that is how it should be.

Let’s not divorce ourselves from reality. To do so really is a backwards step and in the real-world perfection is sadly unobtainable.

That tended to be quite a laborious process but no more. In effect anyone with a modicum of knowledge can do it in a matter of minutes.

If you have time on your hands and are inclined to do so, check out Instagram and I guarantee you that the vast majority of pictures have been enhanced to a greater or lesser degree.

It is not reality and in many cases a mirage rather than the real thing. But it doesn’t really matter, does it?

Let’s get a grip people. There are far bigger concerns facing us and the Princess of Wales does not deserve vilification for doing what most people do on social media every day of the week. The focus should be on her ongoing recovery. That is what really matters.

on Loose Road.

We are starting at the beginning with the new suspended ceilings and lots of new additions to the Pet Section, with the huge variety of natural dog treats, foods, accessories, medical products and the continuation of the ‘Burns’ Dog Food Scheme. It’s extended now with the additional ‘Burns’ cat food scheme and ‘Natures Menu’ frozen loyalty scheme, so there is always something for everyone’s pet (including rats/mice). Take a look at our rabbit and small furry section with lots of variety for your furry pet in foods/accessories/ bedding. Lastly, in this section is our huge selection for bird/ chicken (domestic and wild) and wildlife sections.

houses — also now enhanced with the wonderful locally made bird tables/ nesting boxes.

When you have completed your browsing through this “Aladdin’s Cave”, you will see that the Garden Centre has quite literally grown, with different varieties of compost, seeds, lawn seeds, tools, manures — everything for the complete gardener or just the balcony/ beginner. Now with a great range of seasonal plants all ready to add some colour to your garden. You will soon see Warburtons will be including a large seasonal plant range straight from the Nursery. A DIY dog grooming and a professional groomer in the new ‘Dog House’. Please let us know if you want anything delivered — IT’S FREE around the local areas and we can deliver wholesale sacks or just a few things either Wednesday/Friday or even some Saturdays.

This is the largest along the coast with a huge variety of foods and feeders/

OPEN: GOOD FRIDAY: 9AM-4PM • EASTER SATURDAY: 9AM3PM • EASTER MONDAY: 9AM-3PM

BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN COUNCIL UPDATE

This is a formal council meeting where residents can ask questions of their councillors and is preceded by a celebration of the achievements of the council and its residents.

This year the event was held in St Peters Community Centre in Old Town and opened with The Royal British Legion concert band of Bexhill and Little Common. The Band evolved from a Territorial Army Band who were adopted by the RBL. It is now made up of a mixture of ex-military Bandsmen with talented local musicians and is a true Community Band.

The ceremony continued with the awards presented by the Mayor, Councillor Lynn Brailsford. These consist of certificates and mayoral award badges for individuals and groups who offer great service to the town. Two cups are also presented. The Mullins Cup, to the community organisation of the year and the Coghlan Cup, presented to a young person who has done exceptional things for the town. Finally, the council bestowed the

Rother Councillor and as an individual member of this community.

After a short break, the town meeting concluded with a short question and answer session with local councillors, deftly marshalled by Jon Bartholomew, Bexhill-on-Sea’s Town Crier.

CONGRATULATIONS OUR WINNERS FOR 2023-24: Raymond Konyn; Kaye Collyer; Steve Lucas; Lindsay White; Frances Rowland; Emily Ansell; and Besnik Hexha.

Organisation of the Year: The Heart of Sidley were awarded the Mullins Cup

Young person of the Year: Daisy Eagle. She was awarded The Coghlan Cup.

Jimmy Carroll received the coveted title of the Freedom of Bexhill-on-Sea.

A WORD FROM YOUR MAYOR, CLLR LYNN BRAILSFORD

IT HAS been an absolute honour this year to represent Bexhill as the first female Mayor of Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council.

Bexhill is a unique town with a

the residents who we are proud to represent.

I have greatly enjoyed working with our Councillors, who represent so many sectors the community, ranging from our younger people; families with little ones and school age children to representatives from our business sector and many other walks of life.

These councillors have each made a commitment to combine their many skills and give their time in order to make a positive impact for our town and residents. They have recently proposed plans for two wonderful community projects which will greatly benefit Bexhill. The proposals have been unanimously agreed by full council and I am filled with tremendous optimism for what can be done for Bexhill in the not-too-distant future.

It has been such an interesting and

deserved civic awards to some local individuals and groups who have given up their time and energy and have done so much to make life better for our community. I would like to thank all the award winners for the excellent contributions which they have made. This is a very special day for Bexhill, and you should all be proud as we celebrate your exceptional achievements.

SERVICE TRANSFER UPDATES

CLLR LYNN Brailsford is also the chair of the Asset Transfer Committee. In her annual report Cllr Brailsford explained that the Town Council is to take on the responsibility for the cleaning and maintenance of five new bus shelters which are to be financed

BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN COUNCIL

35 Western Road, Bexhill-on-Sea TN40 1DU

The existing bus stops have been in a neglected state for some years, and the Town Council decided to invest existing funds to restore them to an acceptable condition without the need to increase Council Tax.

The proposed lease between Network Rail and the Town Council is being prepared and the cleaning contracts are being signed to improve the appearance and hygiene of the Devonshire Square toilet block. It will take some time to improve the facility however the Town Council is committed to provided better services to our residents.

KEANE UPDATE

WE ARE following up with Keane’s agents to organise the proposed benefit concert — so watch this space!

Open: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10am-12pm, and 12:30pm-2:30pm

Contact: town.clerk@bexhilltowncouncil.gov.uk • www.bexhilltowncouncil.gov.uk

The Mayor’s speech

The concert band playing whilst the town council assembles

Young winner Daisy Eagle collecting her award from the Mayor and Deputy

Jon Bartholomew, Bexhill Town Crier leading proceedings

The Carroll family with the Mayor and Deputy

Freedom of the Town award presented to Jimmy Carroll

Austin’s powers lead to F1 dreams

already boasts a stuffed trophy cabinet as he chases the ultimate dream of competing in Formula One.

The kart racer is currently leading the four-round lAMA Euro Series after a flying start in Zuera, Spain, which saw him finish with a second-place last month and he is aiming high.

Austin told the Bexhill News: “My dream is to be an F1 driver, and my favourite driver is Max Verstappen.”

That may sound like a bold statement but Austin finished ninth out of 101 drivers, aged between 9-12 years old from all across the world, last year at the lAMA World Finals in Portugal and has been tearing up the track ever since getting behind the wheel as a six-year-old.

Austin is cutting his teeth in championships where the likes of F1 stars Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Jenson Button first enjoyed success.

up to become a double champion the following season as he won the Super One Bambino Pro and British Bambino Championships.

Since then, the Little Common School pupil has moved up to lAMA cadet class and last season he claimed second in the British Championship and third in the LGM UK Championship series.

He also came a commendable 18 out of 55 drivers in the lAMA X30 Mini class in Europe, where the engines were unrestricted compared to the UK.

This season he is gearing up for the latest cadet championships over here — where the engines are now unrestricted and even faster — while looking forward to competing again on the continent.

Austin said “I have really enjoyed racing out in Europe, the tracks are much faster which I love.

“I was pleased to finish P2 in the final of the first round of the IAME Euro Series in Spain recently and really happy to be leading the Championship.

Austin’s need for speed is hardly surprising as racing is in the family with dad, Neil, a former Mini Challenge champion and a team owner who had his son crawling round the garages at Brands Hatch as a baby.

Mind you, Austin might easily have been competing on two wheels instead of four if mum Kerry had not stepped in. As a four-year-old he rode Oset electric bike — and won a trials championship — then moved on to a motorcross bike and started racing.

But mum Kerry said: “We went to watch the Superbikes at Brands Hatch which was terrifying, but Austin said, ‘This is amazing’ and quite quickly Neil went out and bought him a go-kart as four wheels is safer than two. However as soon as he started karting, he loved it and hasn’t looked back since.”

Austin races for the successful and well-established Team BMR, which helps in a sport that is notoriously expensive.

Kerry added: “BMR Team owner,

he really looks after him which is just what you want. Obviously, Austin’s dream in the future, is for Red Bull to come knocking on the door offering him a drive.”

And that is not as far-fetched as it may sound as Ferrari’s Brit teenage talent Oliver Bearman has taken a similar route to the top.

Kerry said: “As Austin progresses, there is more and more time and money that goes into making it happen, so the goal, to enable him to go all the way to the top, is for him to get picked up by one of the top teams

something that started as a hobby, quite quickly turned into something more as we recognised even at six years old Austin has a natural talent. There so much that goes into it from a family perspective, with Neil spending so many hours, both on and off the track and, of course, the travel, but we are fully committed to supporting Austin in pursuing his dream. You can certainly see that the time spent, and Austin’s ambition are paying off with the successes he has had to date. We are so very proud of what he has achieved.”

Old Bexhillians on top Sailors take a dip as season begins

BOTH OLD Bexhillians and Little Common Wonderers remain on course for the walking football play-offs against West Sussex opposition in May.

The OBs are leading their Southern Combination division while LCW are well-placed in third spot.

Off the pitch, the club is gearing up for a busy summer of activity with players from all the teams and their families getting together to enjoy nonfootball events such as golf. It is so important that the club promote this social side as it goes toward a great club spirit and atmosphere.

prestigious presentation evening at Highwoods Golf Club where an evening of good music, tasty food and club trophies is on offer. Members eagerly look forward to the annual side as well as the Club Person of Award. Willis was the club captain Wimbledon AFC in its 1960s amateur

The club hold three sessions a week in the town — indoors and outdoors. More details can initially be obtained from the club chairman Mike Davies at mickdavies48@gmail.com or on

The club are grateful for the hard work of all their managers, pictured are (left to right): Brian Cook/Nik Gardner (OBWF Team); Roger Kidney/Mick Southon (LCW & Atha Strollers Over 60s) and Rob Say/ Andrew Burton (Bexhill Seniors).

BEXHILL SAILING Club’s season has started with thrills and spills. The traditional Brass Monkey Race curtain raiser was ‘blown off’ but the Spring Series got off the start line with two races in mid-March.

Milder winds supported a fleet of ten led by Flo and Abi Wright in their Dart catamaran on the Saturday. Tony Witham got his Supernova moving with new mast and fit helm after his Bough Beech winter sailing experiences. He took first ahead of Rick Parker (Laser Radial) and Michael Corzana (Laser full rig). Dave Kerr led home Malcolm Brookes in their Lightning and Comet Xtra respectively.

Sunday’s race was vastly different. Chris Heath’s Zero struggled in force 4 conditions, leading to a catastrophic capsize, loss of centre board, difficulty in righting the boat and a rescue. It is hoped insurance will help repair the dinghy damage from the breakwater. Both Hanna Bolton and Eve Fifield struggled with conditions, too. Fifield capsized, lost, then recovered her rudder, whilst both did not finish as a result. The catamaran of the Wrights was the sole finisher. Praise should be given to the Rib crew, and shore party for managing the situation effectively.

ROB CAREY

Austin Newstead (inset) in European action

If

Trusted

Bowes

Sport

Bexhill edge towards safety

MIKE LEGG

PHOTOS: JOE KNIGHT/ SEASIDE PHOTOGRAPHY

JOHN WRIGHT is looking up the table after Bexhill United all but secured SCFL premier division safety with a 4-0 drubbing of basement side AFC Uckfield.

The Pirates host local rivals Little Common today (April 1) with the fight to avoid the one relegation spot this season appearing to be a shootout between Uckfield and Saltdean.

Victory in the last midweek game of the month (Mar 20) opened an eight-point gap between the Pirates and the bottom side, although that

later when Bexhill slumped to a 1-0 loss to Saltdean at the Polegrove and Uckfield drew 1-1 at Loxwood. Although nothing is certain, beating Uckfield was a huge step in the right direction and boss Wright admitted there were nerves before the crunch clash.

A header from Evan Archibald, who returned to the club from Eastbourne Town during March, eased United into a 1-0 half-time lead at the Polegrove.

Jack Shonk lashed an angled drive into the far corner two minutes after the restart to put the hosts in command, although keeper Alex

Ellis Wright to protect the two-goal cushion.

Samways’ header from six yards made it 3-0 in the 66th minute before Charlie Playford’s determined run into the box was rewarded as he fired in the fourth.

Speaking after the Uckfield win, Wright said: “I think, with Uckfield’s run-in, it is between them and Saltdean now.

“We want to end up mid-table now. We’ve got Little Common here Bank Holiday Monday and a couple of other winnable games, so it is just about getting up that table now.

“We were so poor against Shoreham

nerves early on — not least from me!

“The lads did us proud and, apart from their chance at 2-0, we never looked in any trouble.”

United crashed to fellow strugglers Shoreham (Mar 9) but fought back from 3-0 down to lose 3-2 to Eastbourne Town four days later with Jack Samways and Shonk on target in a much-improved display.

Shonk’s vital goal in the Uckfield win proved his last for the club as supporters were shocked when United revealed their skipper was leaving on the Friday to “take on a new challenge”.

Bexhill United April fixtures (subject to change): Little Common (home, Apr 1); Hassocks (away, Apr 6); Crawley Down (away, Apr 13); Horsham YMCA (away, Apr 27).

LITTLE COMMON visit Bexhill today (Apr 1) knowing they cannot finish below their local rivals this season.

A Jamie Bunn free-kick made sure of that in their 1-0 win at AFC Varndeanians (Mar 23). That win followed a 3-2 loss to title chasers Crowborough (Mar 19), a 2-1 triumph at Horsham YMCA (Mar 16) and 2-0

BRT runners have a spring in their step

JACKIE KNIGHT

MOTIVATED AND confident

Bexhill Runners and Triathletes club members exceeded their own great expectations in a series of half marathons and ultra-racing events.

There is no greater running buzz than completing the Brighton Half Marathon as Jack Matthews demonstrated as he clocked a fabulous PB of 1hr 31mins 00sec, while Dagmara Ginter finished in 2:25:00.

The Eastbourne Half Marathon was successfully completed by several club runners including Oliver Carey with a great time of 1:19:20, Michael Pain (1:37:03), Dan Marsham (1:40:32), John Brooker (1:48:10) and Jeremy Sankey (1:52:30). Matt Smith saw some historical landmarks whilst

being cheered home by an immense crowd in the Cambridge Half Marathon in a time of 1:55:00.

Jackie Knight took part in the prestigious Paris Half Marathon, running through the iconic city of love, filled with over 43,000 runners and thousands of cheering spectators. Taking up this challenge provided opportunity to meet likeminded worldwide runners and post a new PB of 2:21:00.

Steyning Stringer Marathon proved a triumph for Zak Overfield, who ran it in 4:55:56. The hilly cross-country, slippery slopes, mud and loose stones heightened the achievement for all who joined this challenge. Geoff Tondeur smashed a brilliant 5:05:59, while Simon Leonard and David Rogers finished together in 6:00:55. Dagmara Ginter completed the half marathon in an impressive 2:50:09.

cause at Steyning was not helped by a red card for Lewis Parsons and also a sin-bin which took the hosts down to nine players.

A presentation was made by supporter Sam Stevens to Adam Smith (250), Sam Ellis, Lewis Parsons (200) and Bunn (100) before the Steyning game as they achieved appearance milestones.

Player-boss Russell Eldridge said: “We want to finish strong and get in that top half if possible.

“We have had a tough season with the goalkeeper situation, where we’ve played a number of keepers, while we have had players move on to Hastings which doesn’t help our cause but is a good reflection on the club.

“It has led to us giving opportunities to a number of younger players recently, which is good as they deserve their chance and they have shown they are worthy of their place in the squad. That is what it is all about for us.”

Little Common April fixtures (subject to change): Bexhill United (away, Apr 1); Haywards Heath (home, Apr 6); Crawley Down (home, Apr 9); Lingfield (away, Apr 13); Loxwood (home, Apr 27).

Finally, a record number of BRT junior and senior runners turned out in muddy conditions for the final

Pett. Some notable achievements were made as Andrea Harwood received a financial award, Nigel Smith came third in his age group and Rapahel Serano was

If you have ever thought about running with a friendly group of like-minded people, please go to the BRT webpage for more information for both adult and junior membership.

www.bexhillrunnerstriathletes.co.uk

Zak Overfield took on an even tougher ultra race in the shape of the Centurion Hundred Hills

Sussex Cross Country League run of the season at

Little Common presentation

Zak Overfield, Centurion Hundred Hills 50k

Steyning Stringer Marathon and Half Marathon

Jackie Knight, Paris Half Marathon

Jack Matthews, Brighton Half Marathon