MP DETERMINED TO MAKE TOWN A BIG SUCCESS
WELCOME
WELCOME to the latest issue of Bexhill News which this month had the welcome opportunity to have an in-depth interview with Dr Kieran Mullan, the town’s new Conservative MP.
Dr Mullan spoke exclusively to us about his hopes and aspirations for Bexhill, Battle and our rural communities and is determined to have a positive impact.
He also says his party must unite following Labour’s overwhelming victory in the recent General Election.
Politics aside, there has been plenty going on during the summer months now that the sun has finally made an appearance.
Recent events have proved a huge success thanks to the quite excellent 70s Spectacular on the lawns behind the De La Warr Pavilion, Battle Festival and of course the Bexhill Carnival Procession.
However, there are still increasing concerns over the number of businesses closing down in the town centre and it is vital that Bexhill does not become a “ghost town” while nearby towns such as Hastings and Eastbourne continue to thrive.
Clear planning and new sustainable ideas are needed to reinvigorate Bexhill. It is not going to happen overnight. That much is patently clear. A collective approach is required by politicians of all persuasions so that everyone can move forward with confidence.
Let’s put petty squabbles aside because ultimately, they achieve precisely nothing. Bexhill and Battle have plenty to be proud of and it is crucial to shout that from the rooftops.
For now, though, let’s enjoy the remaining summer months while supporting our local businesses.
Kim Mayo, editor
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Bexhill woman jailed for manslaughter of 18-month-old boy
A Bexhill woman convicted of manslaughter following the death of an 18-month-old boy has been jailed.
Shannon Driver, 27, of North Road, was sentenced on Friday, June 28 at Lewes Crown Court.
Driver was jailed for 12 years, with another five to be spent on extended licence.
In January, Driver had been found guilty of the manslaughter of 18-month-old Jaxon Syrett while he was in her care.
Jaxon tragically died in hospital on September 24, 2020, after being admitted several days previously with significant injuries.
On the afternoon of September
called to a property in London Road to a report of a child having been seriously injured.
Jaxon was rushed to hospital for treatment after the informant,
slipped in the shower.
Driver had been looking after the tot while his father was at work.
Despite the best efforts of hospital staff Jaxon did not recover from his
injuries and was confirmed deceased on September 24.
Subsequent examinations by medical professionals found he had suffered significant injuries which the post-mortem suggested to be “nonaccidental, rather that they were due to inflicted trauma”.
A criminal investigation was launched, while Jaxon’s family were supported by specialist officers.
Driver was arrested, subsequently charged with manslaughter and remanded in custody.
Following her conviction, Jaxon’s family issued the following statement: “The tragic loss of Jaxon has changed our lives forever. We will never see Jaxon’s cheeky smile again, nor hear his infectious laugh and will miss every milestone Jaxon yet had to reach.
“Jaxon had his whole life ahead of him. We as a family hold and cherish every memory we have of Jaxon.
“We would like to thank everyone who has been involved with this investigation, and in getting a conviction and some kind of justice for our baby.
“The support we’ve been given in such devastating circumstances has been so appreciated.”
Investigator Dick Hemmings said: “No jail sentence can make up for the unimaginable loss felt by Jaxon’s family, and our thoughts remain with them as they have done throughout this investigation.
“I would like to thank them once again for the resilience they have shown in supporting this investigation, which was delayed multiple times during the court process.
“Shannon Driver has now faced justice for her crime. I hope this resolution allows Jaxon’s family the time, space and privacy to come to terms with their tragic loss.”
Jaxon Syrett
Shannon Driver of North Road, Bexhill
In association with Bexhill College, with support from McPhersons Chartered Accountants
Outside on the lawns at dusk / 8.30pm.
Bexhill’s Conservative MP is determined to deliver renewed optimism for the town
THEY say life begins at 40, and that certainly applies to Dr Kieran Mullan as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.
The former Conservative MP for Crewe and Nantwich is now representing Bexhill and Battle, having won the seat for the Tories, albeit with a vastly reduced majority at the General Election on July 4.
Dr Mullan recently celebrated his 40th birthday with family and friends but knows full well that plenty of work lies ahead for his party following Labour’s crushing victory and the rise of Reform UK under its charismatic leader Nigel Farage.
“Yes, there is plenty of work to be done to rebuild the Conservative Party,” he candidly admitted. The infighting has to stop, and we must unite under a new leader once they have been chosen.
“But my main focus, having had the privilege of being chosen to represent the people of Bexhill and Battle, is to listen to their concerns and act on them whenever possible.”
Dr Mullan stressed that he intends
to be a “hands-on” MP and a visible presence in the town whenever he is not at the Houses of Parliament.
“They are many and varied as you would expect, so it is patently clear there is plenty of work to be done.”
Two other key concerns regularly raised are Southern Water and the state of the roads in the constituency with the seemingly never-ending battle to combat the proliferation of potholes.
Dr Mullan said: “When there are sewage spills and overflows, yes, I will certainly be holding Southern Water to account. It is crucial that we do
“I hear loud and clear that it’s an obvious gap in our town but I think we need to make the space for people to come forward with ideas.
“My door is always open for people to give ideas about what they want to see in the High Street.”
Finally, back to the future of the Conservative party as they look to rebuild after such a shattering defeat which saw Sir Keir Starmer installed as Prime Minister at Number Ten Downing Street.
Dr Mullan bucked the national trend of Conservatives losing seats hand over fist and believes now is a time for reflection as the party seeks to recuperate.
He said: “I would like to see a halt to the infighting. People had enough of that. No-one wants to see all the bickering, they don’t want to see pointless rowing.
“We need to put forward a united message. We need to be seen as competent, restoring trust and being professional.
“In terms of policies, it’s time for reflection. We, as a party, need to make sure we put forward policies we
“We need to restore trust and unite but, first and foremost, I will be focusing on delivering for the people of Bexhill, Battle and our rural communities.”
Dr Mullan met Bexhill Heritage volunteers working on Sainsbury’s Concrete Mural
Dr Mullan says he welcomes ideas on how to improve Bexhill and Battle
Dr Mullan with Battle Town Councillors Andrew Barton and Chelsey Sprong
A Bexhill man who raped and sexually assaulted two young girls has been sentenced to 28 years.
John Armsby, 47, of Ninfield Road in Bexhill, repeatedly sexually abused two girls under the age of 13 between 2017 and 2022.
The offences were reported to Sussex Police on January 24, 2022, and Armsby was arrested two days later.
His young victims and their families were given specialist support by Sussex Police officers and our partners.
Armsby’s home was searched, and digital devices were found containing indecent images of children.
He was subsequently charged with five counts of rape of a child under 13, five counts of sexually assaulting a child under 13, assaulting a child under 13 by penetration, three counts of possessing indecent images of children and one count of possessing a prohibited image of a child.
A jury found him guilty of all
charges at Lewes Crown Court on March 26, 2024.
At the same court on June 6, Armsby was sentenced to 24 years in prison, with another four to be spent on extended licence.
He was also given an indefinite
Sexual Harm Prevention Order, indefinite Restraining Orders against both victims and ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Detective Constable Annie McGarvey said: “John Armsby’s crimes are sickening and depraved.
“My heart goes out to his young victims and their families for the horrific ordeal he has put them through, the effects of which will be long-lasting.
“I thank them all for their support and determination throughout this investigation.
“Without their courage, we would not have been able to put a dangerous offender behind bars where he can pose no further harm to the public.”
If you are a victim of sexual offences, no matter how long ago, please report it to Sussex Police who will believe you, will support you and will do everything they can to get you justice.
Report online, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency.
Debate over Northeye site continues as its future remains unresolved
NEWLY-ELECTED Bexhill and Battle Conservative MP Kieran Mullan admits that the future of the Northeye site in Little Common remains unresolved as he awaits further information from the Home Office.
Under the previous Conservative Government, Northeye had been earmarked as a holding centre for asylum seekers, which had led to vociferous protests in some quarters.
However, those plans have been put on the back burner for now since Labour stormed to victory in the General Election on July 4 this year.
As a result, the future of the Northeye site hangs in the balance, although Dr Mullan is seeking answers.
The Home Office issued an announcement on July 26: “The Home Office acquired the former HMP
Northeye (Northeye Residential and Training Establishment), in Bexhill, in September 2023.
“No decision has been made on the use of this site. The Home Office will consider its strategy and broader requirements before taking a view on the future use of the Northeye site.
“Further information will be shared with local partners and the community once a decision has been made.”
Dr Mullan said: “You might have heard or seen the Home Office has put out an update on Northeye. I don’t think it really says anything.
“It is potentially encouraging that they say they haven’t decided what to do but doesn’t rule anything out either.
“I am due to raise this issue in Parliament with the Home Secretary soon”.
John Armsby of Ninfield Road, Bexhill
Bexhill Rotary Club chooses
new President for term of office
THE new President of Bexhill Rotary Club was confirmed as Hugh Allen at a special ceremony.
The former President, James Slinn, had played a vital role in many community projects including donating to Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance’s major funding campaign to raise £1million to purchase a helicopter and James provided the local Stroke Association with much-needed iPads.
James also took part in The Long Ride in April to help raise money for DISC Dementia Support and the Sara Lee Trust.
Hugh said he is delighted to have the honour of being the new President and added: “I joined Bexhill Rotary Club 14 years ago with the intention of trying to help local people, which is my own personal way of trying to give something back to the area that I have worked in all my life.
“I have enjoyed the fellowship of the Bexhill Rotarians enormously, and in my year as President I hope to reinforce and build upon the relationships that I have formulated since becoming a member of this great club.”
As President, Hugh has chosen two main charities to support in his year in office, one of which is Warming Up The Homeless which is a frontline charity supporting homeless people in the area. It was formed in 2015.
The other charity Hugh is supporting is the Bexhill Foodbank which has been feeding those in need in Bexhill and Battle for well over ten years.
Born and bred in Bexhill, Hugh was educated locally rising to become Head Boy at St Richards Catholic College in the town.
From there it was over to Eastbourne College, then a degree
course at Sussex University. While at Sussex University, Hugh’s father died suddenly so he took the reins of the family building business and continued part-time with his degree at Ealing College in West London. After graduating, Hugh took on a transport managers course and qualified. He also qualified as a member of the Chartered Institute of
Building (MCIOB).
He has been running the family company, Bruce and Co, based in Bexhill, since November 1978 and is happily married to Briony.
In 2010 he decided to move away from Bexhill and now jointly runs a smallholding with Briony in the East Sussex countryside. Apart from being involved with
his building firm and smallholding, Hugh has a number of classic cars, Jenson Interceptors being a favourite of his, which he shows at various classic vehicle events. He also runs a green classic Bedford lorry for his business and a cream Land Rover, both of which are regularly seen about Bexhill and the surrounding areas.
Live safe and well in a unique studio, 1-bed or 2-bed apartment or bungalow at the Hawthorns, a warm and friendly all-inclusive rental retirement community for the over 70s.
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Bexhill Rotary new President Hugh Allen
Bolebrooke badgers are still chilling out as negotiations continue over their removal
ANY residents hoping the badgers that have taken up residence in Bolebrooke Road, Bexhill, will be moved on anytime soon are likely to be disappointed.
Although plenty of work is going on behind the scenes, mountains of red tape make it difficult to implement a speedy resolution.
East Sussex County Councillor Ian Hollidge admits the delays are frustrating but inevitable bearing in mind the badgers are now wellestablished at the site and the situation has to be resolved with care and plenty of planning.
He said: “Clearly none of us expected badgers to move into the roadworks and to then start burrowing and creating their own subterranean environment beneath the road surface.
“But they have and now we are working hard on finding the best way to deal with them in a sensitive and responsible manner.”
The crafty critters are thoroughly
the animals are a protected species.
A licenced ecologist has been contacted to conduct an assessment but they are yet to visit the site and will need to confirm the presence of an active badger sett before further progress can be embarked upon.
East Sussex Highways are in the process of applying for a licence from Natural England, which is necessary to legally interfere with a badger sett. That process is expected to take between one and two weeks depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the licensing authority.
Once the licence is obtained, a plan will be implemented embracing
badgers, which may include creating an artificial sett and relocating the badgers if necessary. That phase involves further ecological surveys and consultations, which can take an additional two to three weeks.
Subject to approval, and further liaison with the appropriate authorities will depend on the specific requirements of ecologists and Natural England.
The ongoing welfare of the badgers will remain paramount at all times but once they have been successfully removed to a safe environment, work on the road will resume.
However, this work is expected to take a further two to three months.
East Sussex County Councillor Ian Hollidge, who also represents Bexhill South, in Bolebrooke Road
Former RAF pilot Roy ‘takes to the skies once more’ in celebration of his 100th birthday
REMARKABLE 100-year-old former RAF pilot Roy Oldcorn “took to the skies” once more at the grand old age of 100.
On Tuesday, July 2, the ex-RAF Flight Sergeant from Bexhill found himself at the simulated controls of an AVRO Lancaster at Manston in Kent.
After “take off” Roy “flew up” to
London, then under the Queen Elizabeth Bridge at Dartford before landing at London City Airport.
After learning of Roys 100th birthday earlier this year Robert Westbrook, manager of the Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Building at Manston, invited him to go to the museum to fly their Lancaster simulator.
In 1944, and at just 20 years old, Roy was a Lancaster pilot on 153 Squadron flying from RAF Scampton
Among other sorties, he was involved in Operation Manna, the dropping of food to the starving Dutch when the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany and during that, it became known as “the hunger winter”.
For that he was recently awarded a “Thank you Liberators” medal by the Defence and Naval Attache form the Embassy of the Kingdom of The
Netherlands in London on behalf of the Dutch people.
Andy Skinner and Clive Hammond of Bexhill on Sea branch, Royal Air Forces Association, arranged to take Roy and his wife Sue to the museum where all the staff treated Roy as if he were royalty. With some effort, Roy was assisted into the pilot’s seat and with Robert Westbrook as his Flight Engineer, Roy took off on his flight to London.
Following his simulator flight Roy said of the experience: “It was absolutely fabulous”.
Andy Skinner said: “It was fascinating to watch, as Roy settled into the pilot’s seat, he automatically commenced his pre-flight checks.
“There were some American visitors in the museum and after explaining Roy’s history and that he had been a Lancaster pilot, a spontaneous round of applause rang out.
“One woman was reduced to tears and they all thanked him for his service. It was quite an emotional moment for us all.”
Robert Westbrook explained: “The front fuselage section of the Lancaster simulator had been built over a period of six years by retired electronics engineer Norman Groom, 86, using original salvaged parts, alongside measurements taken from a Lancaster in the Imperial War Museum”.
“A number of people, including former Lancaster air crew and a former Concorde pilot have flown the simulator but Roy is the first actual Lancaster pilot to have done so. It has been an honour and a privilege”. The Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum welcomes visits from all former wartime aircrew and arrangements for a visit can be made through their website: www. spitfiremuseum.org.uk
After his flight, Roy was invited to sign the visitor log and was presented with his flight certificate and a museum cap.
Roy at the controls of the Lancaster Simulator
Oldcorn receiving his flight certificate from Musum Manager Robert Westbrook
Stone the crows! Festival fun as entries brighten up the centre of Battle
IT was another successful year of the Battle Scarecrow Festival, with plenty of beautiful and highquality entries.
The Scarecrow competition is part of the town’s annual Battle Festival of Arts and Music, which ran from July 4 to July 28.
This year’s theme was Once Upon A Time, which inspired plenty of imagination.
There was a vast array of creations on display across Battle including the children’s classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Shrek, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the ‘Battle Town Council’ Beanstalk and many more. From the quality of the displays, it was clear that participants put in a lot of hard work and effort into their
creations which gained plenty of plaudits and lots of visitors from both near and far.
Scarecrow competitions have proved hugely-popular in recent years with Sussex towns entering into the spirit of the occasion. There was also a huge array of scarecrows encompassing many different themes in Polegate too.
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Pool, darts, boxing machine, large beer garden, large function room available for hire day & night (with screen for presentations) £25 for members & £50 for non-members
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Regular members event days, club-owned bouncy castle, BBQ
Days out & trips for members - Goodwood Racecourse, Ascot Racecourse, Hove Greyhound racing and lots more every year
Every Sunday - meat raffle, chase the ace game, football & tote draw
Free WIFI & Air Conditioning Throughout the whole club.
Shrek and Donkey by 1st Battle Scouts
Scarecrow Hiding
Jack and the Battle Town Council Beanstalk by Battle Town Council
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Saxonwood Women’s Institute
Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay The Scarecrows’ Wedding by Julia Donaldson
Wolfie by Caterpillar Pre-School
Residential care company fined over fire safety regulations failure
THE directors of a residential care company have been fined £124,455 after failing to comply with fire safety regulations, placing vulnerable residents at risk.
Thuraisamy Ravichandran, director and company secretary and Radha Ravichandran director of Care Pro Southeast Limited, pleaded guilty to all 12 offences at Brighton Magistrates’ Court in April 2024.
The sentencing was deferred to the District Magistrates Judge and held at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, July 9.
On October 31, 2022, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Fire Safety inspecting officers visited four residential homes in Bexhill, starting with Park Apartments at 14 Egerton Road and identified the following offences, under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. They were:
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 8 - Duty to take general fire precautions.
• Failure to discharge their duties
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 13 – Fire-fighting and fire detection.
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 17 – Maintenance.
On October 31, 2022, inspectors from ESFRS visited Eden Lodge at 16 Egerton Road and identified the following offences:
under Article 8 - Duty to take general fire precautions.
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 13 - Fire-fighting and fire detection.
Inspectors visited Park View, 25 Egerton Road on November 2 and identified three offences:
• Failure to discharge their duties
under Article 8 - Duty to take general fire precautions
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 9 - Risk assessment
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 13 - Fire-fighting and fire detection
On the following day, inspectors visited Beau Lodge at 7 Jameson Road and identified three offences:
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 8 - Duty to take general fire precautions.
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 9 - Risk assessment.
• Failure to discharge their duties under Article 13 - Fire-fighting and fire detection.
District Judge Szagun, when considering the prosecution sentencing guidelines, upheld culpability to be high and the level of harm to be medium.
In her judgement, she explained that the number of vulnerable residents placed at risk due to the defective fire doors and lack of detection and alarms, raised the level of harm a higher level.
The Judge added that the owners should have taken the time to understand published regulations and guidance when providing this type of service.
The defendants were fined £27,500 per offence, for four of the offences, with guilty charges upheld for the remaining offences but no separate
penalty awarded.
This resulted in a £110,000 fine, a £2,000 victim surcharge and £12,455 for times and costs.
Area manager George O’Reilly, head of Fire Safety for ESFRS said: “I would like to thank the court for their time and deliberations in this matter as well as my legal team and staff for their efforts in bringing this case to a successful conclusion.
“ESFRS are legally required to enforce the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
“We take this responsibility seriously and we will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone responsible for placing people at risk of death or injury from fire due to their failures to meet the requirements of this legislation.”
Group Protection Legislation and Enforcement Manager Craig Williams said: “The fire service considers this one of the most serious cases we have ever prosecuted due to a number of offences found in various premises operated by the company.
“The fine handed down by the court today reflects the serious nature of the offences. Owners and those responsible for any premises where the fire service find fire safety contraventions are reminded of the potential consequences, including unlimited fines and potential custodial sentences.”
Brighton Magistrates’ Court. Photo: Sussexonian via Wikimedia Commons
It is carnival time once again as Bexhill celebrates in style
THE Bexhill Carnival procession on Saturday, July 27 brought spectators out in their hundreds as a week of celebration was brought to an exciting climax.
The procession, as is invariably the case, proves as spectacular as ever with blazing sunshine just adding to the sense of occasion.
As is amply evidenced by these
accompanying pictures, everyone entered into the spirit of the occasion to ensure the assembled throng were thoroughly entertained.
The procession brought the carnival procession to an impressive close, proving once again that Bexhill is the ideal location to host events of this calibre.
Everyone, from organisers to spectators, clearly had a great time, so all we can say is… roll on next year!
PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON
Everyone loves top local events but they do come at significant cost
PHOTOS: JTP53 PHOTOGRAPHY
THE Bexhill 70s Explosion event once again proved to be a roaring success on the lawns behind the De La Warr Pavilion, but staging the show does come at a considerable cost.
Thousands gathered for the spectacular event for a day of music as they looked back on the decade that fashion forgot although much of the music was great.
Take, for instance, the Abba Reunion tribute show which had everyone singing along to the
local legend for organising large scale events locally.
He organised the Olympic Torch relay in Hastings in 2012 and founded Pirate Day in Hastings and in Bexhill.
He has organised Roaring 20s which won two Guinness World Records for the world’s largest Charleston Dances.
He also put together the massively successful 60s Revolution Event just before Covid in 2019 and the immensely successful Medieval Day in Bexhill in 2022.
However he created his biggest success to date with the 70s Explosion
and it’s that that we should be encouraging and supporting”.
Howard Martin, President of Bexhill Chamber of Commerce added:
“Roger is a local legend for bringing the community together to deliver these incredible events.
“But what people don’t see as they enjoy international level artists like Abba Reunion performing is that there is a considerable cost involved.
“Normally an event like this would cost in the region of £35 per head to cover the costs involved.
“The artists alone cost thousands of pounds, safety and security costs
Hounds of love as owners proudly show off their pets at top dog show
A multitude of breeds were vying for attention, although French Bulldogs were clearly the most popular, having seemingly surpassed pugs as the most soughtafter dogs in recent years.
It summed up the old adage that “a dog is for life, not just for Christmas” and so it proved once again with so many displays of mutual respect and love between men and women’s best friend.
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Mark and Loki the Dalmatian. Loki has one blue eye and one brown eye
Dan and Buddy the Whippet
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Maddison and Hogan the British Bulldog Alec Grassby with his pooch Archie
New community hub go-ahead will put
HEART of Sidley rejoiced after Rother District Council approved plans to build a new state-of-the-art community hub.
The new centre will be on Sidley Recreation Ground and the fully accessible Sidley Hub will provide first-class sports, changing facilities for the area, an improved grass football pitch, a café, accessible toilets, off-street parking and extensive function rooms for hire by local groups.
The charity said the success of this project was due to the support of the community, local groups and businesses.
The plans are part of a joint Levelling Up Fund Programme (LUF) by Heart of Sidley, Rother District Council and the De La Warr Pavilion, following a community consultation, and will greatly enhance the local existing sports infrastructure.
The new centre will also have a larger lift, wider corridors and automatic doors have been included, ensuring full inclusivity and accessibility for all.
The team at Heart of Sidley said they are focused on delivering a vibrant
lifestyles, along with opportunities for further learning and skills development.
Jay Carroll, chairman of Heart of Sidley, said: “We are really pleased to see the approval of the Sidley Hub, a facility that will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of community life, and we are eagerly looking forward to starting the work on this build in the Autumn.
“This achievement marks a
District Council, the DLWP and of course LUF for their invaluable partnership.
“Together, we are working to create an exceptional community hub that will enhance the lives of residents and sports enthusiasts both in our local community and further afield.”
Stewart Drew, chief executive and director of the De La Warr Pavilion said: “Many congratulations to Heart of Sidley on the approval of their
planning application for the Sidley Community Hub.
“The Levelling Up monies of more than £19million was for community, creativity and skills for both the capital development of the Pavilion and the Community Hub.
“The Hub will connect Sidley with the Pavilion and the town centre by increasing opportunities and access to education and employment, upskilling local residents and bolstering career progression in the area’s creative and cultural sectors, particularly for young people.
“We are excited that Heart of Sidley is leading the way on this exciting joint project.”
The team at Heart of Sidley also thanked Councillor Sam Coleman for his continuing support of the charity.
In a speech at Rother District Council planning committee meeting, Councillor Coleman said: “I am absolutely buzzing about this application and I’m sure, given the glowing report that the officers have put together, that many of you will be as well.
“I think the members of the public
who commented on the application were absolutely spot on when they said this would be a game changer for Sidley and the wider area.
“It is absolutely incredible that we have managed to secure the levelling up funding to see this project through especially in the current financial circumstances.
“It is an absolute testament to the Rother officers, to (former MP) Huw Merriman and his team to the De La Warr pavilion and to the Heart of Sidley for the incredible effort that they have put into bidding for this funding and developing this plan which is the perfect scheme to make best use of every single penny.”
Councillor Coleman said the new hub is not only a place for people to socialise, but it also provides job opportunities for Bexhill locals.
He added: “I feel it’s important to stress how fundamentally brilliant this planning application is because this is not just policy compliant, this is not just the bare minimum, this is an absolutely exemplary application.
“The use of local materials, the architecture inspired by the De La Warr and even things like the café windows overlooking the play area to enhance child safety or the lift to ensure accessibility to the first floor.
“All of these things have been thoroughly considered and it makes this application almost impossible, in my view, to say no to.”
New Sidley Hub. Artist’s impression
DUBU MERGES SUSHI, BURGERS & TACOS FOR A DELICIOUS ADVENTURE
Bexhill-on-Sea, DuBu.
Western Road, DuBu brings a unique fusion of homemade sushi, burgers, and tacos to the local food scene.
Helmed by the talented chefs Iranian Hamid Fayazipour and Ukranian Elmira Bukhonka, the restaurant promises a fresh and vibrant dining experience. Hamid and Elmira bring a wealth of experience to create DuBu. Hamid honed his culinary skills at Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian in London for over five years, while Elmira’s expertise in sushi spans more than a decade. Their combined experience shines through in the diverse menu and the meticulous care taken in preparing each dish. At DuBu freshness and quality are
Stepping in, we were greeted by a modern and inviting ambience and a firm handshake from Hamid. Although the seating capacity is not extensive, the restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere with seating by the window, providing a glimpse of the bustling Western Road. The decor is contemporary, vibrant and inviting.
The menu is vast, offering something for everyone. From expertly crafted sushi to tasty tacos and mouthwatering burgers, the selection is akin to the best street food from around the globe brought together in one place. Our culinary adventure began with Veg Futomaki from the sushi menu, a delightful roll featuring cucumber, avocado, lettuce, red pepper, crispy onion, rice, sesame seeds and unagi
Tacos, including Fried Squid, Duck Carnitas, and Pulled Pork. Each taco was full of flavour, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and expert preparation. The boys shared the Flaming Devil Burger and Dirty Fries, which were equally impressive with the freshly homemade burger standing out as a highlight. All this was washed down with some Smoothies and ‘Coolers’ which were very fresh and tasty.
DuBu’s commitment to handmade food items using the freshest ingredients is evident in every bite. The attention to detail is remarkable, from ingredient selection to preparation through to presentation. This dedication is not just an empty statement; it’s a promise fulfilled with every dish served.
To call, or reserve a table: 01424 424984 530 BEXHILL ROAD, ST LEONARDS ON SEA, TN38 8AY www.bullstleonards.co.uk Facebook: @bullinnstleonards
Saturday 3rd - 60’s, 70’s & 80’s “Vintage Disco” - from 7:30pm*
Sunday 4th - Folk Session - from 5:30pm
Saturday 10th - “Touchwood” - from 3:00pm*
Sunday 11th - Rock ‘n Roll Bingo - from 6:00pm
Friday 16th - Kevin Tyrell - from 3:00pm*
Sunday 25th - “The Cover-Ups” - from 4:00pm*
Monday 26th - “Lizard Life” - from 3:00 pm*
Friday 30th - Ritchie Lee - from 8:00pm
Saturday 31st - Rick & Bob (swing and Soul) - from 3:00pm* (events marked * will be held in our large beer garden, weather permitting)
stream of customers picking up online orders or receiving deliveries from wellknown delivery companies. This steady flow of patrons is a testament to their growing popularity and its impact on the local food scene.
Beyond the savoury offerings, DuBu also caters to those with a sweet tooth. Their bubble waffles are a crowd favourite, offering a delightful combination of crispy texture and sweet toppings.
DuBu is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination for food lovers seeking a unique and enjoyable dining experience. The welcoming atmosphere and exceptional food make it clear why DuBu is quickly becoming the go-to spot in Bexhill.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a sweet treat, DuBu
quality, Hamid and Elmira have created a dining experience that truly stands out. DuBu is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, expertise, and a dedication to fresh, quality ingredients. I had to ask where the name originated, and the story is really heartwarming. Their pet names for each other are DuDu and BuBu and they put them together to form DuBu.
The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from noon to 9:30pm, and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. If you find yourself in Bexhill, DuBu is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a unique combination of sushi, burgers, and tacos.
Find DuBu at 33 Western Road, TN40 1DU, Telephone: 01424 552 591, online www.DuBu33.co.uk
Traditional Pie, Mash & Liquor available here
risk and learning how to
keys all need different tools in order to maintain them to the required level. Learning what to use and how, keeping
skill which has allowed us humans to progress since the Stone Age. Look after your horse, carriage, plane or ship and they will look after you. Machines and technology can make everything easier but often takes away our understanding of simple skills. Have we lost certain skills in our progress to
Cycling can be challenging because you have to know how to ride, to fix your bike and look out for yourself and
Alternative forms of everyday travel do not require that level of skill or personal responsibility which is often
Next time you see a person riding a bike when you are driving, please consider they do not have power steering, servo-assisted brakes, laser sensors, cameras, sat nav, indicators, automatic gears, seat belts, airbags or turbo power to make their lives easier. Cyclists are just humans using their own power and skills to move forward, having fun while keeping fit.
If you want to learn how to check the basic mechanics on your bike, please join us at Bexhill Day, which is taking place on August 17 on East Parade for free advice, which will be available. Oh, and bring your bike along with you please.
East Sussex Coastal Culture Trail Ride up Galley Hill, Bexhill. Photo: Ian Sier
East Sussex Coastal Culture Train Ride in Bexhill. Photo: Ian Sier
Big Bike Revival. Image: Ian Hollidge
BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN
and restaurants — to participate in Fairtrade Fortnight. This year’s event begins on Sunday, September 8, and concludes on Sunday, September 22, marking the 30th birthday of the Fairtrade Foundation.
Three Big Appeals for Fairtrade Fortnight
1: Switch to Fairtrade Tea and Coffee
• Can everyone please use Fairtrade tea and/or coffee (if this is your normal beverage) during the Fortnight?
• Consider adding a healthy Fairtrade banana to your breakfast.
• Try a couple of Fairtrade chocolate bars in different varieties—you might find a new favourite!
• Look out for Fairtrade Breakfast locations, or perhaps organise one in your street or with friends.
2: Engage Your Community
• Whether at your workplace, business, church, faith-based meeting, school, or exercise group session, you can find engaging ideas and film clips on the Fairtrade website, www.fairtrade.org, to spark positive discussions.
Fairtrade Fortnight is a fantastic opportunity to learn about and support the Fairtrade movement, which ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable practices for farmers and workers in developing countries. By making simple swaps in your daily routine, you can make a significant impact on the lives of
the Finance and Audit Committee on 12th June 2024 the Full Council resolved to adapt the grants and donations budget to allow for £42,000 worth of grants and donations to be allocated to local community organisations this year, and for grants of up to £1,000 to be approved at each meeting of the Finance and Audit Committee. Grants of up to £10,000 may also be approved each January, May, and September. This means that small grants can be considered in a much timelier fashion.
Recent grants include:
£1854 to the St Peter’s Community Centre to replace their lighting with LEDs. Not only will this improvement be more energy efficient, but it will drastically improve accessibility for service users.
£510 to Mindful Oak Sussex CIC to go towards supporting families struggling with dementia, to help them meet other families in similar situations and provide new, exciting, and generous opportunities to make new memories. This is also an excellent opportunity for signposting and support. Mindful Oak Sussex CIC provides refreshments such as teas and cakes along with music, games, dance, and craft to foster a comforting and joyful environment for those involved. This grant will cover expenses for six sessions.
£1000 to Hastings Sinfonia
professional environment. This educational and exciting experience will provide children with a once-ina-lifetime opportunity and give them insight to potential futures in the performing arts world.
£3000 to Bexhill Youth and Community Association to fund the costs of building a nature wall and area for children. This allows local children to observe and learn about nature in a safe, secure and stimulating environment with no risks of nearby roads and associated traffic. This is a brilliant opportunity for children who may not have access to gardens at home. The Bexhill Youth and Community Association’s plan to build a natural retaining wall from sleepers, and then to install a palisade fence, will
about the Society and get involved.
£500 to Margaret Hayles to produce her third annual book Beautiful Bexhill-on-Sea. This book features promotional pictures of the many positive features of our town, with all proceeds from sales supporting Children’s Respite Trust. The Children’s Respite Trust is a charity dedicated to providing respite care for disabled children and support for their families across Sussex and surrounding areas. The Trust operates from a centre in Uckfield, offering both community-based carers and day-care services. Their mission is to ensure that no family caring for a disabled child feels alone, providing vital support that allows parents to take breaks, manage chores, and spend quality time with
their other children. Steve at Sparc PM Ltd, a Bexhill-based printing service helped produce the book and recently completed the Three Peaks Challenge for the charity too.
Margaret Hayles is a notable figure from Bexhill, recognised for her contributions to the local community through her photography and active involvement in community projects. She has made significant efforts to support Bexhill Heritage, a local charity dedicated to preserving the town’s historical and architectural
Margaret generously donated all proceeds from her 2022 Bexhill Calendar to Bexhill Heritage. The funds raised from the calendar sales were directed towards restoration projects, including the Bandstand Shelter No.1 on East Parade and other local conservation efforts.
Margaret Hayles’ dedication to her community and her artistic talents have made her a cherished member of Bexhill, contributing significantly to the town’s cultural and historical
INFRASTRUCTURE
The Town Council also approved a contribution to two new exciting projects, one being a £16,000 grant towards the repair and refurbishment of the toilet facility at Pebsham Community Centre. This will result in accessible toilet facilities to the users of our upcoming Accessible Play Park
The other grant given was £15,000 to facilitate Bexhill Heritage’s restorative work on the bus shelters of De La Warr Road and the junction of Third Avenue and Hastings Road. This will result in the transformation of the bus shelters from the poor condition that they are currently into attractive assets for the community.
FUTURE MEETING DATES
Amenities Committee: 4th September Planning and Development Committee: 11th and 25th September
Finance and Audit Committee: 11th September
Full Council: 25th September
We are currently holding our council meetings at the Bexhill Senior Citizens Club on Eversley Road. Meetings are subject to change, so please check our website for more information.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Memish Huseyin presenting the creative writing awards on World Fair Trade Day
Margaret Hayles, Bexhill resident and local photographer
CROSSWORD WORDSEARCH – TRAVEL
ANSWERS
A
Opening over the August bank holiday the spa will feature three treatment rooms, a vitality pool, infrared sauna, aroma essence steam room, wellness shower, foot spas and heated loungers.
The spa will also house a relaxation lounge and fitness suite.
Partnered with British Skincare brand Pelegrims and Award Winning Aromatherapy Associates, the team have created a luxurious treatment menu with exclusive treatments, Spa Days, Overnight Stays and
Memberships
To celebrate the launch, The Relais Cooden Beach will host a grand opening on the 23rd August 2024 where you will be able to prebook taster treatments with the incredible spa team and enjoy tours of the hotel and spa.
Email: wellness@therelaiscoodenbeach.com for further details.
All treatment bookings will receive a free gift when Quoting - RRSPA24
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
In late summer, I am always soothed by the sight and sound of water in a garden. Foliage can look weary by this time, but water freshens all the senses no end.
There are now so many exciting and sustainable ways you can introduce water as a feature in your garden. (I do wonder if Charlie Dimmock, when she featured in that iconic show, Ground Force, is responsible for the term ‘water feature’.)
Water has always featured in gardens from long ago and was seen as a sacred and precious element in an outdoor space both for functional and aesthetic reasons. In hot climates, such as Egypt, water cooled the air and provided vital irrigation in their ancient gardens.
I was fortunate to visit the Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh a few years ago and was struck by its use of water, which is very reminiscent of Islamic Gardens. There is a system of rills and large tanks that is so effective and cooling. These also provide visual movement, which contrasts effectively with the planting scheme. Rills are considered to be an abstract form of a natural stream and are still a source of inspiration to us today.
The first importance to consider is safety. If children or pets are using the
BATES Green Garden, an RHS Partner Garden, is open every Wednesday between the end of February and late October. For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden
“Don’t forget to drink water and get sunlight. You are basically a house plant with more complicated emotions’
Now, to the type of feature. You do not need a huge amount of space; there are now tiny bowls fitted with solar-powered fountains that will fit on a doorstep. The birds and bees will appreciate this. At home, we have a plain stone bowl outside our window, which we top up daily. It is quite incredible to see how many birds
the rest of your garden. Here at Bates Green Garden, we are in a rural setting with a naturalistic style. We garden for Nature and wildlife, so our Wildlife Pond is perfect. We have oxygenating plants that are wholly or partly underwater. They have submerged leaves and perform several important roles in
There is nothing worse than murky, stagnant water or a pond clogged up with blanket weed and so this possibility must be addressed. Submerged oxygenators
THE UPS, DOWNS AND A SPITFIRE ENCOUNTER DURING CONTINUED PILOT LICENCE TRAINING
I’m literally only 10% of the way through the syllabus and during each training session, I experience nervousness, excitement, apprehension, satisfaction and sometimes, disappointment.
Readers who read last month’s edition may have seen I have begun training at Deanland Airfield, just west of Hailsham, for my National Private Pilot’s Licence (NPPL-M) and I’ve just completed my fourth hour in the air.
Although the training is extremely exhausting, it’s hugely rewarding when I complete each exercise with my instructor, Luke Christophides, who I’ve been working very closely with during
why wait?
knew it wasn’t going to be an easy ride.
It’s probably a good thing that Luke doesn’t really give me warning of what he may ask me to do on each flight although the syllabus is very clear about what I need to be doing, there are areas like radio calls, taxiing, checklists and of course the take-off which you can do at any time under the watchful eye of the instructor.
When climbing aboard the Ikarus C42 in early July, we prepared the aircraft for the flight and I was suddenly told it was my turn to taxi to the runway and make my first radio call. I seriously thought this would come later on in the training, but
In this lesson, I had to complete ‘Straight and Level Flight’, which sounds easy, but in a microlight, there are a lot of different forces to take into consideration to ensure you end up where you intended to fly. I successfully completed this level, even though the weather conditions were a bit against us in some places. Learning from this, I was more than ready (I think) for Luke to continue to throw new challenges my way in my next lesson. I knew we’d be looking at ‘Basic climbing and descending’, but would he instruct me to take off? No, surely not, I was only in my fourth hour of flying. So, after the normal aircraft checks, refuelling, start-up procedure, power checks and taxi, the moment came, that I was dreading. The words “You’re taking off!” came over the intercom from Luke —
this was it!
It’s important to realise that an instructor would never ask you to do something they didn’t think you could safely do. Of course, Luke was able to take over the controls if something wasn’t right immediately. Before we knew it, I was pushing the Ikarus to full power and we were soon in the air the C42 certainly doesn’t hang about and only takes seconds to get airborne. Going back to the emotions experienced during training, there’s so much information to be learned when studying for a license, and sometimes, it’s easy to feel disappointed with myself when I don’t get it right in the air straight away. But, that’s the key to a great instructor. Everything is explained and demonstrated so well, that the disappointment doesn’t last long and I
finally crack the brief.
This particular lesson in late July will always stand out for me in one particular way. I spotted ‘traffic’ ahead (another aircraft), which was in fact a Spitfire, about 3,000ft above Eastbourne. We kept an eye on it to make sure we were well clear of it and was then treated to a stunning aerobatic show from the Spitfire! What a highlight to happen so soon into my training.
Next up for me is performance climbing & descending and turning in flight.
Flying from Deanland can also be a great gift or even if you want to experience flight for yourself. My good friend Viv, who runs the Royal Indian restaurant in Hailsham, treated himself to a flight over the south downs and coastline recently. It was a great opportunity to show him the airfield and what happens there, and he fulfilled his dream of flying over the Sussex countryside.
It can also be a good team-building opportunity for businesses as Deanland has a very relaxed and informal feel and flying is an enormous buzz for most people.
To book, call Shellie at Flight Sport Aviation at Deanland on 07519 527597. Quote ‘Newspaper Ad’ to get £10 off your first flight.
The pilots view from the Ikarus C42
Viv Samuel and Luke Christophides with the Ikarus C42
A take off at Deanland
BEXHILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND TOURISM UPDATE
CHAMBER ECHOES
CH-CH-CH-CH-CHANGES CAN BEXHILL TURN AND FACE THE STRANGE?
THE late great David Bowie once sang, “Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes (turn and face the strange),” which we could take as a rhetorical question for Bexhill: With all the changes going on around us, is Bexhill ready to not only turn and face the “strange” but also embrace and benefit from it?
Bexhill Chamber of Commerce is incredibly proud of our support for the democratic process during the recent general election. As a politically neutral association of members it was good to see that four of our parliamentary candidates were current or previous members of our Chamber who represented varying political views.
Some keyboard warriors have tried to claim that our Chamber is dominated by some sort of secret affiliation to a particular party, which could not be further from
the truth. Our board is currently made up of eight very experienced business and social enterprise representatives; who they vote for is none of our business. We are only aware that since 2021, when an attempt was made to overtly politicise the board, we have reinforced our political neutrality by excluding elected councillors and the MP from eligibility for board membership and enshrined our political neutrality into our constitution.
We cannot yet assess what impact the recent historical change in Government will have on Bexhill and the surrounding area, but we look forward to working with our members to help them “face the strange” and adapt to any changes if necessary.
As we recently reported, Bexhill is
FIVE MINUTES WITH…
ALEX STALLYBRASS OF PLATFORM TWO RECORD SHOP
Alex Stallybrass achieved a lifelong dream when he took over Platform Two and is loving every minute of running the popular business with his Spanish partner Graci
When did you move to Bexhill?
We moved here in 2022. Graci grew up in Spain and I grew up in Brighton, but we met in Hastings before moving to Leicestershire for work. We rushed back to Sussex two years ago when the opportunity arose to take over from our friend Nick when he retired from Platform One Records in sunny Bexhill.
What is it you love about Bexhill?
Having previously lived in Brighton, St Leonards and Hastings, we love that the beach is so quiet in Bexhill. There’s a lovely serene atmosphere when we walk along the promenade after work. We didn’t realise Sussex beaches could be so calm. The sunsets are amazing too!
What do you think needs improving In Bexhill?
When I was kid growing up in Brighton, my father
was a marine biologist and chemist working for the local water authority. He studied our impact on nature and worked hard to minimise any damage done by humans to the marine life that we share our environment with. He would be appalled by the current levels of pollution. Platform Two Records hopes that the council will put more pressure on Southern Water to stop polluting our beaches, for the sake of both residents and marine life. We’ve moved here with our three-year-old daughter and would love to safely get in the sea with her.
How do you visualise Bexhill over the course of the next 10 years?
Lots of people are moving to Bexhill and there’s lots of new housing. We reckon the population will get younger and Bexhill will increasingly be seen as up-and-coming. We hope this leads to more businesses springing up and there being a bustling, vibrant town centre. It would be great to see the town busy with tourists and locals for the whole weekend. We currently close on a Sunday. It would be great for Bexhill to be busy enough to make opening on Sundays viable for our business!
going through a rapid demographic shift brought on (in part) by digital nomads migrating from London and other big urban centres to take advantage of competitive property prices and a coastal lifestyle.
This trend may be accelerated by the new government’s plans to rapidly build more housing. Our hope is that alongside that housing will come the essential infrastructure, as well as investment in new technology and leisure-driven jobs. If businesses have fear from these changes, it is that a mass program of house building may rapidly become the development of low-quality, economically inactive sink estates akin to the concrete and poorly fabricated monstrosities of the 1960s and 1970s that still blight so many of our towns and cities.
To prevent that from happening,
we need a strong and robust local leadership that will ensure that the long-promised high-speed rail links, destination leisure facilities, hotels and technology jobs are given equal priority to the flat blocks and cul de sacs.
In particular, it is essential that sites that are already allocated as employment land remain as such. Beeching Road, for example should not be traded off as suitable for residential when it has long been identified for commercial development. There are excellent “grey” sites that could easily meet housing targets like the Hastings Direct site without sacrificing jobs and social amenities elsewhere. Bexhill is ready to face the “strange” but we need a united effort to embrace it!
in rare and unusual records. We make sure we stock classic albums in great condition, but we also travel far and wide to find stuff you don’t see every day. That makes us a destination shop for customers from around the globe, but locals love us too as we add new stock every week. We have a reputation for treating customers fairly when they’re selling records, which means we benefit from positive word-of-mouth and we’ve
Alex with his partner Graci
Polegrove bowlers on charge in County and National action Walking football club stages hugely-successful tournament
POLEGROVE Bowls Club ladies have had a very successful season so far and now have a big month ahead.
Rachel Mackriell won her county two-woods semi-final and teamed up with Nina Allbut and Denise Hodd to win the Triples semi. Lyndsey Jamison joined them in the Fours for success in their last-four clash.
Margaret Adcock was the fourth member of their senior fours team that was also successful in reaching the final.
Rosamund Wood and Denise Hodd won the County pairs semi-final which gave Wood enough points to be awarded her County badge next season.
All finalists will represent Sussex in the National finals at Leamington in August while the county finals were held recently.
The ladies have reached the County Top Club final and the National Top Club last 16 in England and play a strong Appleyard team in the latter.
Julian Webb and Mark Leary have
reached the area semi-final in the County unbadged singles.
Polegrove BC held the annual Triples competition with Debby Merrett, Lois Crone and Margaret Adcock emerging triumphant. Gilda Gardner, Richard Green (am), Janice Haylock (pm) and Peter Rawles were the runners-up.
Morning trophy winners were Elliott Gatward, Simon Merrett and Clive Jeffrey and afternoon winners Fiona Cook, Julia Miller and Terrry Adams.
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
BEXHILL
BEXHILL STAMP & POSTCARD CLUB. Bexhill
Stamp & Postcard Club hold their Stamp Fair at the Bexhill Sailing Club, De La Warr Parade, Bexhill, TN40 1LA on 16 August 2024 12 noon till 4pm. Bexhill postal history & postcard display & sales. Dealers present. Refreshments available and raffle. Booking/info: 01424 255338
BEXHILL GARDENING CLUB’S ANNUAL SUMMER SHOW. Saturday 10th August 2pm-4.30pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, St Augustine’s Close, Bexhill, TN39 3AZ. Admission £1 adults (children free). There is also a plant sale, tombola and refreshments. See www.lchs.co.uk for more information
LITTLE ARTS FESTIVAL, Rushlake Green, August 1st-24th. A varied line-up of concerts, gigs, exhibitions, theatre and workshops for all tastes. Events are modestly priced or free. More details and how to book tickets, www. littleartsfestival.org and Facebook. Tickets can be bought on the door for some events.
THE BEXHILL ARTISTS’ WORKPLACE returns to the De La Warr Pavilion, 24-26 August, 10am-5pm. Free Entry. The Studio is to the west of the main Pavilion on Bexhill seafront. A feature this year is postcardsized works of art in aid of local charities. For information www.bawuk.org
BEXHILL SEAFRONT FREE MEDITATIONS
Drop in this Bank Holiday Sunday for free guided meditations at Bexhill’s Coronation
Bexhillians Walking
Football Club staged a successful tournament for the CellAED Trophy with more than 100 players taking part.
Twelve teams entered the competition held at Bexhill College’s artificial surface.
Sides representing Chatham, Hastings, Maidstone, Tonbridge, Eastbourne, Woodnesborough, Worthing, Sheerness (Range Rovers WFC), Woodchurch, Bexhill (two teams) and Paddock Wood (Insulators WFC) took part.
CellAED is a kitbag-size defibrillator that could provide lifesaving and should be an essential part of any
Bandstand. Sunday 25th August 11-12. For more information, visit:www.meditateinsussex.org
EASTBOURNE
CONNECTIONS DEMENTIA CAFE Eastbourne Christ the King, every Tuesday 1.30 pm to 4.40 pm, £2.50 entrance for entertainment. Tea and coffee. Bexhill dementia cafe at St. Mark’s Church every Thursday morning, 10.30am to 1.00pm. Please contact Sarah Savill on 07783693522 for more details.
EARLY YEARS FIRST AID CLASS (3-6YRS), EASTBOURNE. Muma Nurture Training Room, Unit 4, Beverley Business Park, 6 Finmere Road, BN22 8QG. Friday 23 August, 10am. Join us for a half term early years first aid session. Ideal for 3-6-year-olds we’ll cover getting help safely in an emergency, 999, minor injuries like small cuts/grazes/head bumps, and what to do if the adult looking after them becomes unwell or unresponsive. Children can bring along their favourite doll/teddy to be their casualty. £10 per child. Book this class at Sussex.minifirstaid.co.uk (classes for children)
LIFE DRAWING Old Town Community Centre, Eastbourne. Every Saturday 6-8pm and Thursday 10.30am-12.30pm. Want to have a creative outlet? How about giving life drawing a go? Costs £10, all abilities welcome. No tickets needed, just come along with a sketch pad, draw and chill out.
SUPER LEROC DANCE NIGHT St Luke’s, Stone Cross, Rattle Road, BN24 5EB. Third Thursday of Every Month, 7.30pm-11pm (15 August & 19 September). Everyone welcome, Free car park,
playing away and the whereabouts of an in-place defib unit is unclear, as has been proven in the past.
The trophy was won by Chatham WFC, and Range Rovers were runners-up. The event was held under walking football association rules with qualified match officials and, to add to the occasion, the weather was kind to all.
Overall, the day was a great success for the club and, as it was the first one, there are a few things to correct for next time. But nobody could fault the effort and work that was put in by club officials Mick Davies, Dave Fricker, Bryan Fisher and Caz Cunningham with the backing of stewards Steve Croft, Bob Nesbit and Sarah Brown.
great music — £8 per person. Free Buffet of HOT sausage rolls, sandwiches, cakes and tea, coffee and cordials all night. You can BYOB too. Beginners 19.35 — 20.00. Freestyle 20.00 — 23.00. £8.00.
CHILDREN’S RESPITE TRUST, COMEDY NIGHT At Langney Sports Centre — 13 September, from 7pm. Get ready for a Comedy Night to remember. For just £15pp you can enjoy a great night out of laughter. For more details: crtcharity.org/event/comedy.
CHERRY DANCE PRESENT THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (15+) The Grove Theatre, Eastbourne. Saturday 21 September, 7.30pm. Join us for a night of fishnets, frolics, and Frank-N-Furter! Special Guests Cherry Dance will be providing a fantastic Rocky Horror-themed #BeMoreSkater aka Jon Campling will then join us to perform a set of classic Rocky Horror songs live. 10% off your first order of drinks if you join us suitably dressed in Rocky Horror attire. Tickets: https://bit.ly/rocky-horror-cherrydance. £8.98 if pre-booked, £10 on the door.
HAILSHAM
BUSINESS LOCAL NETWORK FOR
ENTREPRENEURS Hailsham & Eastbourne — all 10am, £10 per person. Networking Continues in September! Come and enjoy our relaxed and natural atmosphere. At BLN, we cultivate a relaxed vibe with no awkward elevator pitches. Conversations flow naturally, allowing business owners to speak freely and engage in meaningful dialogue, brainstorm and problem-solve allowing you to get to know the person behind the business.
National League came to an end but the Seniors Over 65 squad had a well contested 1-1 draw with Hastings United WFC in a friendly. The last award of the year was presented to the Seniors player of the year, John Martin. Their annual barbecue was rained off and switched to Little Common’s Wheatsheaf Inn. OBs’ chair Mick Davies can be contacted on 07961 008743 or email mickdavies48@ gmail.com and he will gladly answer questions on the club which meets three-times weekly for sessions and runs three teams on a regular league and friendly basis.
Open to men from age 50 upwards and women from age 40 upwards.
This encourages more organic referrals and builds on genuine relationships, which lead to stronger, more supportive business connections. Hailsham: Abbots Wood Manor, London Road, BN27 3AL. Eastbourne: Willingdon Park Manor, King’s Drive, BN22 0AB. To Book: bit.ly/ BLN_Hailsham: www.bit.ly/BLN-Eastbourne
STEVE HOSTS: POKER AT HMI POKER CLUB Hailsham Memorial Institute – HMI, Western Road, Hailsham. Now EVERY Tuesday, 7.15pm-close. MI membership/day rates apply; £2/day. full membership £38, renewal £28. Join Steve’s WhatsApp Chat for more details: https://bit.ly/HMI-Poker-Club
HAILSHAM FRIENDS FOR PEOPLE ON THEIR OWN We meet on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of every month in the back room of ‘The Crown’, 19 High Street, Hailsham at 10.30am. Drop in for coffee/tea and chat to find out what is going on. Website: www.hailsham-friends.club Email: ken@hailsham-friends.club Tel: 01323 893340.
The publishers cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions in this noticeboard.
To submit your listing for publication on this page, visit: www.hailsham.news/ community-noticeboard or scan this QR Code.
Old Bexhillians and Hastings Over-65 squads
Debby Merrett, Lois Crone and Margaret Adcock members of Polegrove Bowls Club
Sport
‘Excited’ Light has the buzz back after Sidley fundraiser is a big hit at St Mary’s
and moved so I am not expecting us to hit the ground running. I expect it to take a little bit of time to get up to speed but once we do, I think we will be really competitive.”
Light hopes signings including Dan Rogers, Aaron and Tyler Capon, as gone.
He will hope to add further players in the coming weeks but said: “We will be a relatively young side to start with — which is not necessarily a bad thing as those players bring enthusiasm and energy. We shall
On the field there was an enjoyable and closely contested game between promising junior players impressed.
enjoyed a bar and barbecue provided by the club’s primary junior sponsor
newly elected Bexhill and Battle MP Kieran Mullan, Mayor of Bexhill Cllr
much positive feedback not just about the day itself, but also on the work it has done to transform St Mary’s from a site that was not being used for sport
This is Sidley’s first year of playing league matches at the St Mary’s Lane
is to replace the shipping container changing rooms with a brick-built pavilion and plans for such a facility have been drawn up.
The new square is already playing well thanks to the hard work of club volunteers and more than 400 runs were scored in Sunday’s 30-overs-perside game. In keeping with the spirit of the occasion, the scores finished level after the Select XI struck the final ball for four.
The club as a whole was the winner, with the occasion portraying Sidley — and their ongoing efforts to rebuild after the loss of their old Gullivers ground in 2013 — in a positive light. Sidley, who run free training sessions for junior players on Mondays from 6pm, thanked Pebbles on the Beach for the catering, all who donated raffle prizes and the two umpires. Heart of Sidley sponsored the matchball.
Duval helps young Sussex stars to hat-trick of titles
Under-21 girls’ crowns respectively. Tavis and Paige also finished with the highest averages for the under-21s. Sussex enjoyed a successful season as the teams combined to win section one overall.
Ryan Light. Photo: Joe Knight
Davie Duval
Sidley Cricket Club’s charity match