WELCOME to the latest issue of Bexhill News and as per usual there has been plenty going on to keep us all entertained.
There was the annual Bexhill Day which celebrated our town and was once again a roaring success with the highlight being a flypast by a Lancaster Bomber, the stalwart of the Second World War.
The record fair at the De La Warr attracted hundreds of visitors of all ages who were keen to augment their vinyl record collections.
Finally, there was the motor show at the Polegrove which is an absolute nirvana for petrolheads and always draws a big crowd on Bank Holiday Monday.
There are cars of all shapes and sizes from classic Minis to iconic top of the range classics such as Aston Martins and Jaguars.
As ever, it is not all good news and the closure of Bexhill’s branch of Lloyds is another major blow to our high street.
That decision follows in the footsteps of banking giants NatWest and Barclays to also shut their branches in the town and it is an increasingly worrying trend.
Despite continuing efforts to persuade us to embrace online banking or to use so-called “banking hubs” many simply do not wish to do so and who can blame them?
Yes, we all accept that technology plays a significant role in modern society but it is not the be-all and end-all.
Interacting with fellow human beings remains the most pleasurable form of communication and we should never lose that.
Let’s all raise a glass or two as the Brickmaker’s picks up top accolade
confirmed by CAMRA South East (Campaign for Real Ale).
doing so we have beaten some of our favourite places to drink in Brighton and throughout Sussex. A great honour indeed.
compete with the best pubs in Surrey and Kent for the regional award. We’d love you all to cheer us on, who knows what the future holds?
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
VIKTORIA COWLEY – FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS viktoria@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
MIKE LEGG – SPORTS REPORTER sports@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
DEAN COOK – PRODUCTION dean@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
Kim Mayo, editor Bexhill
READ ME, SHARE ME, THEN RECYCLE ME!
The team at the pub in Sea Road, Bexhill, said they are extremely proud of the achievement and to be recognised for their work in contributing to the “golden age” for real ales.
Runner-up went to Tower in St Leonards, while Cider Pub of the Year
CAMRA South East also awarded the Albatross (RAFA) in Bexhill to be Club of the Year, while New Beach Club in Pett claimed second place.
Brickmaker’s Alehouse posted on their Facebook page: “We’ve now received official confirmation that we have won CAMRA’s Sussex Pub of the Year 2024.
“This is an incredible achievement
“We want to thank everyone at CAMRA who have given us their support; the incredible breweries, local and national, who are brewing some outstanding ales and making this a golden age for real ales; and, of course, our brilliant bar team who constantly set new standards for great customer service.
“Most of all, though, we want to thank our special patrons and loyal friends who make the Brickmaker’s the vibrant and welcoming community local that we set out to achieve.
Teenager jailed following collision on stolen
motorcycle in Bexhill
a motorbike was stolen from the Mount Idol View area in Bexhill.
At 1.30pm, the rider of the stolen bike, a 17-year-old from Bexhill, failed to give way at the junction of Cranston Avenue and Eastwood Road.
He crashed at speed into a vehicle on Eastwood Road and was propelled off the motorcycle, over the back of the vehicle, and into the road.
The motorcycle was written off in
permission of the editor.
lucky to escape without serious injury.
The 17-year-old was arrested two days later at their home address on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, using a vehicle without insurance, and for driving whilst disqualified.
He was taken to custody and interviewed, and then bailed while necessary enquiries took place.
On July 9, the teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Hastings Youth Court, charged with handling stolen goods, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, using a vehicle without insurance, and for driving whilst disqualified.
He was then bailed from court pending his next hearing.
On August 12 at Hastings Magistrates’ Court, he entered a guilty plea to all offences with the exception of handling stolen goods which remains on file.
He was sentenced the same day to 26 weeks’ imprisonment.
“We’d also like to send many congratulations to the Albatross Club who have picked up the Sussex Club Of The Year award and the Robin Hood Icklesham who are the Sussex Cider Pub Of The Year; making it a clean sweep for South East Sussex.”
Now, the 17 regional winners will compete for the coveted title of National Pub of the Year.
Out of the 17, judges will be selecting four finalists and the contenders will be announced in late September. The winner of National Pub of the Year will be crowned in January 2025.
Officer in charge, PC Grant Freeman said: “These crimes have a significant impact, not just on the victims who lose their vehicles, but on the wider community’s sense of safety and security.
“The teenager involved in this case was fortunate to escape the collision without serious injury, or even losing their life, highlighting the dangers of irresponsible driving.
“Excess speed is the cause of one in three collisions in Sussex, and speeding is one of the main ‘fatal five’ factors in why people are killed or seriously injured on our roads.
“We will continue to prosecute those who engage in criminal activity such as this, and work to make our streets safer for everyone.
“If you’ve been a victim of this type of crime, we strongly urge you to contact police as early as possible.
“Your report could make a crucial difference in helping us bring offenders to justice and preventing further crimes.”
You can make a report online: www. sussex.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/ how-to-report-a-crime/
Or you can call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
Brickmaker’s Alehouse
Brickmaker’s Alehouse team celebrates win
Flying Teddy Bears and plenty of family fun as Bexhill Lions put on spectacular at De La Warr
PHOTOS: BEXHILL LIONS CLUB FACEBOOK PAGE
MOST of us have grown up with a Teddy Bear and they usually stay with us throughout life’s ups and downs.
They are loyal and loveable companions but conversation is minimal as they spend most of the time sleeping in their favourite spot which invariably tend to be on a favourite armchair or at the foot of the bed.
Much like humans, they come in all shapes and sizes, some are brand
However, movement tends to be minimal. At least that was the case until recently when many of those residing in Bexhill were rudely awakened from their slumber.
Why I hear you ask? Well, the reason is simple because Bexhill Lions had organised a special event at the De La Warr Pavilion for families and their furry friends.
It proved to be a hugely popular occasion as more than 200 families took part in a variety of events, including the bears taking to a zip wire and parachuting down from the upper level of the pavilion.
others while one particularly portly individual even failed to make it off the ground!
The bear in question was the aptlynamed Biggest Bear owned by none other than Bexhill Chamber of Commerce President Howard Martin who was left red-faced as his much-loved mate was barred from both parachuting and using the zip wire for having piled on too many pounds.
Needless to say, Biggest Bear went into a major sulk before discovering there were several other events which he could take part in and his smile soon returned.
Biggest Bear had also brought along
his chum Pepe the Biker Bear who fortunately measured up for the two aerial challenges by being less than 18 inches tall and like so many of his contemporaries he had a whale of a time.
The event was held on August 4 to raise funds for Bexhill Lions Club who do so much good work in the community and the response from local residents and visitors was phenomenal.
On a glorious summer’s day as the bears and their owners enjoyed a fun-filled day of activities, thanks to the support of Bexhill Lions, the Royal Marine Cadets and the Pavilion.
This is Growler who is nearly 60 years old
Biggest Bear and Pepe talking about their big day out. Photo: Howard Martin
Howard Martin with his mate, Biggest Bear
Concerns increase as yet another major bank closes doors for final time
ANGER
closure of yet another high street bank in Bexhill after Lloyds confirmed it would be shutting the doors of its branch for the final time in September.
The decision follows the footsteps of fellow banking giants NatWest and Barclays, who have also closed their branches in Devonshire Rod, leaving three gaping holes in the high street.
The decision by Lloyds has infuriated Bexhill Chamber of Commerce President Howard Martin, who was quick to voice his disappointment.
Mr Martin said: “Bexhill Chamber of Commerce is appalled by the lack of action being taken over the closure of Lloyds Bank, the last remaining big four bank in Bexhill.
“This leaves our community and local businesses with no vital counter services and is just another nail in the coffin of cash.
“While the Post Office is expected to take up some of the banking services they are already overstretched and inundated by the demands being put on their counter staff.
“Our politicians have long been
promising us a banking hub run by all the main banks but this has unsurprisingly failed to materialise.
“We have known about this proposed closure for nearly a year and Bexhill Chamber was working
hard with Locate East Sussex to attract inward investment from leading hotel and hospitality providers to take over the premises but now Locate has been abolished and now the councils have
taken over the role that interest has evaporated.
“Empty buildings and the lack of a coherent town centre strategy are creating a vacuum in Bexhill that is being filled by criminality.
“Empty landmark buildings like banks that are not quickly regenerated drag down the town in such a way as to make investment appear unwelcoming.”
Many also believe that so-called banking “hubs” are simply not the answer to an increasing malaise in the financial sector.
For many, a visit to their local branch is a “comfort blanket” as they are not comfortable with using online banking which is being pushed as a preferred option.
But for those who are unfamiliar with using the internet it is proving to be a scary prospect and one which they do not wish to pursue.
However, the closure of bank branches in our high streets is clearly going to continue despite Nationwide and Santander continuing to operate branches in the town, for now at least.
However, as Mr Martin correctly pointed out, there are now three major premises vacant in Devonshire Road with no prospect of them being taken over and repurposed for other use any time soon.
Much has been made of the number of vacant commercial properties in Bexhill. Some ideas have been proposed in recent months but thus far there has been little in terms of real action and that is an increasing concern.
Plans to turn former picture framing shop in Devonshire Road into pub
A MUCH-LOVED picture framing shop in Devonshire Road has closed its doors for the final time but there might be light at the end of the tunnel for the now empty premises.
Priceless was a staple of Devonshire Road for many years but the owners decided it was no longer viable to maintain a presence in the town centre, although there are future plans to continue offering picture framing services although exact details have yet to be finalised.
In the interim plans have now been unveiled to turn the premises into a bar with planning permission being sought.
After the closure on July 31, a sign was displayed on the window stating that a change of use is being applied for.
The notice posted by Paul and Sandra Crone states: “We hereby give notice that we have applied to the Licensing Authority at Rother District Council for the grant of a premises’ licence at 69
premises to a public house called The Strand with the following entertainment, including live and recorded music.” to Sunday between 11am and 11pm.
Circus performer suffers multiple injuries in horror fall from high wire
ONLOOKERS gasped in horror as a circus performer plummeted to the ground after losing her footing during a performance.
The female tightrope walker was part of a troupe who were putting on their act at the Gravity Circus in Glyne Gap field on August 19.
The performer suffered significant injuries to her face but they were described as non life-threatening”.
The injured woman was transported to the Royal Sussex Hospital in Brighton after initially being treated at the scene of the accident.
A hospital spokesman confirmed that the injuries she suffered were “consistent with a fall from height”.
The circus also issued a statement which said:
“An accident occurred which involved one of our tightrope walkers.
“In live entertainment and high-risk performances accidents can still unfortunately happen despite stringent safety checks.
“Our safety protocols were immediately enacted (following the incident) and the performer was immediately transported to hospital.
“Our key concern is the welfare of the performer and their family and the entire circus family. We will be conducting a thorough investigation to establish how this happened.”
Priceless in Devonshire Road closed down in July this year
support network
A dedicated care worker has undertaken a Herculean effort to save three dementia support groups from closing in East Sussex.
Sarah Louise Savill, director of Connections Café, had worked as a coordinator for a charity which operated numerous dementia support groups across the county. However, when the charity closed, Sarah was determined to carry on helping those who rely on support groups as their main social contact.
She said: “It was a very big and difficult job to set up Connections Café but it was worth it. I had loads of support from café attendees and volunteers who helped make it possible.
“I received a lot of advice from services like Dementia Information Service who advised me on how to set up a CIC.
“I set up three GoFundMe accounts for cafes in Eastbourne, Bexhill and Crowborough in order to get the groups up and running.”
Sarah and her team of supporters’ efforts have certainly paid off. Since Connections Café opened in April this year, it has been supporting very reserved. “When he first attended the café, he
and singing and is there on the dot every week.”
According to the NHS, more than 944,000 people in the UK are living with Dementia, and one in 11 over 65 have dementia in the country.
Sarah has been a personal assistant for ten years. When asked about her experience as a support worker, Sarah said one needs to be “outgoing, hands-on and involved”.
Right now, Connections Café is a growing support group; they have six volunteers and between 40 to 50 people attend sessions in Eastbourne, more than 25 in Bexhill and about 30 in Crowborough.
The support groups are open once a week with a small charge which goes towards purchasing tea, coffee and biscuits.
The sessions are held at the following venues and times:
• Christ the King Church, 3 Princes Road, Eastbourne BN23 6HT every Tuesday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, with a £2.50 fee
• St Mark’s Church, Green Lane in Little Common, Bexhill TN39 4BZ every Thursday from 10.30am to 1pm. The meeting is on the second floor with a £2.50 fee.
• Crowborough Community Centre, Pine Grove TN6 1FE every Friday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, with a £5 fee which helps pay for booking charges.
For more information about Connections Café, visit their Facebook page on: www.facebook. com/ConnectionsCafeSussex
PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY SARAH LOUISE SAVILL
Connections Cafe director Sarah Louise Savill (left) with volunteers Samantha Newson and Andrew Newson
Liberal Democrat Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde visits Connections Café
Major boost for Battle as much-needed affordable homes are finally back
MORE than 130 much-needed affordable homes are once again to be included in a council-backed development in Battle.
At a recent meeting, Rother District Council gave its support to a new option for the Blackfriars site which would see affordable rented homes and properties for shared ownership back on the plans.
The affordable homes element of the development was removed from the scheme in November last year after increased costs made it unviable.
But a redesign of the scheme, led by Rother DC Housing Company Ltd (RDCHC) and its Board of Directors, and the appointment of a new main contractor has improved the project’s finances considerably.
Councillor Rauri McCourt, the district council’s portfolio holder for housing, said: “We are delighted to support the reintroduction of affordable homes to this important scheme which will go some way to ease the housing shortage in the district and provide accommodation for families wanting to remain in the area.
the agenda
“The Blackfriars site has been earmarked for housing for many years and it has taken a great deal of work to get to this point.
“I look forward to seeing the
development progress and the community benefit from some muchneeded, low carbon accommodation in the area that will maximise the use renewable energy technologies.
“It is a priority of the Government to increase the building of genuinely affordable homes- and it is our priority in Rother too.”
Richard Thomas, chairman
of
RDCHC, added: “The company continues to deliver on its promise to the Rother Community, to deliver a scheme of 200 environmentally friendly homes, that will be cheaper to run.
“Of these 130 will be much-needed affordable new homes, including rented properties for those on the housing waiting list and low-cost home ownership for young first-time buyers.
“The Board and I are very proud of what the company has achieved to date and cannot wait to get building.
“Contractors should be on site by January 2025. Huge thanks to all involved.”
Funding of £8.7 million from Homes England will help deliver a new road and establish utilities on the site.
A bid for a further £8 million has been made by Rother District Council to enable the first part of the project to be completed by December 2024.
Construction work is expected to begin in January 2025.
Full details about the scheme can be found at www.rother.gov.uk/ housing/housing-development/ blackfriars-site/
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
BEXHILL
BRING & BUY BOOK SALE. Bell Room, St Peter’s Community Centre, Church Street, TN40 2HE Saturday 5 October, 10-4pm. To raise much needed funds to support Alison Giblett’s Missionary Work in Ukraine. Help is especially appreciated as the conflict continues. A variety of books, reasonably priced. Plus Missionary Box Opening 10am-12noon for CMS, The Leprosy Mission and Children’s Society. All welcome.
BEXHILL & ROTHER ENVIRONMENTAL
GROUPS TALK. Beulah Hall, Clifford Road, TN40 1QA. Wednesday 25 September, 7pm . “The Circular Economy: put into practice” A talk and demonstration by teacher Brock Prestney-Vaughan from Robertsbridge Community College. Everyone welcome, entry £2 for non-members. Email: bexhilleg@yahoo.co.uk
COMPANIONSHIP CAFÉ. Home Instead Bexhill. St Augustine’s Church Hall, St Augustine’s Close, TN39 3AZ. Fourth Friday of every month, 1012pm. For the older members of our community, especially those who struggle to get out.. Free but booking is required — Caroline Aherne on 01424 401402 or caroline.aherne@homeinstead.co.uk
Autumnal Crafty Workshop. Mindful Oak Sussex CIC. St Michael’s Church Hall, 20 Glassenbury Drive, TN40 2NY. Thursday 24 October, 9.3012.30pm. A taster session of our Memory Moments Café, including seasonal craft activities. An opportunity for people with memory problems to visit with a family member or carer to enjoy a
BUSINESS LOCAL NETWORK FOR ENTREPRENEURS. Hailsham & Eastbourne — all 10-12pm, £10 per person. Come and enjoy our relaxed and natural atmosphere. At BLN, we pride ourselves on providing a warm and 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. Hailsham: Abbots Wood Manor, BN27 3AL, 17 Sept, 15 Oct — bit.ly/BLN_Hailsham. Eastbourne: Willingdon Park Manor, BN22 0AB, 25 Sep, 23 Oct — bit.ly/BLN-Eastbourne.
EASTBOURNE BLIND SOCIETY QUIZ. Friday 20 September, 7-9:30pm. Thursday 3 October, 2-4pm. Eastbourne Blind Society, 124-142 Longstone Road, BN22 8DA. Join with friends and family for a quiz and a chance to find out more about Eastbourne Blind Society and the services we offer. £15 per team (max of 6). Tea & coffee available or bring your own refreshments. To book, contact Mark Simmons, email: mark@eastbourneblindsociety.org or phone: 01323 729511.
CELEBRATION OF OLDER PEOPLE’S DAY
Eastbourne Seniors Forum. St Saviours Church Hall, South Street, BN21 4UT. Thursday 3 October, 2-4.15pm. Allowing older people to socialise and get together in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and enjoy
an afternoon of magic, comedy and song with Marco the Magician (Member of the Magic Circle) and Stephen Dunnett (Rat Pack type Vocalist). Tea and cake. £3 Booking essential, contact: Gill — email: gill. morris518@btinternet.com, phone: 01323 722256.
EASTBOURNE FOCUS DIGITAL CAMERA CLUB
The club are holding an exhibition on Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 September. This will be held in Gather, inside Eastbourne Beacon from 10-4.
WILLINGDON COMMUNITY CAFE. Home
Instead — Eastbourne and Hailsham. Trinity Church Hall, Coppice Avenue, BN20 9PN. Thursday 26 September, 2pm to 4pm. Thursday 24 October, 2pm to 4pm. A free community café with entertainment and activities for local people. Free refreshments and activities. Everyone welcome! Dementia Friendly. Free but booking is essential. Contact: Phone: 01323 819191, website: homeinstead.co.uk/eastbourne-hailsham
HAILSHAM
STEVE’S HMI POKER CLUB Hailsham Memorial Institute, Western Road, BN27 3DN. Now EVERY Tuesday, 7.15pm-close. HMI 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 FM SING-A-LONG GREASE FILM
SCREENING at HAILSHAM PAVILION. George Street, BN27 1AE. Sunday 8 September, 2pm.Join Hailsham FM for this year’s sing-a-long. The classic film with on-screen lyrics so EVERYONE can join in.
Fancy dress strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential! Tickets £8 & £6 (Plus Booking Fees).
u3a SINGING WORKSHOP. Hailsham Pavilion, George Street, BN27 1AE.Friday 20 September, 10am. A one-day SINGING workshop. £15.00. Suitable for all levels from complete beginner — there is no requirement to be able to read music.. For more info and to book: https://hailshampavilion. co.uk/events/u3a-singing-workshop/
WANT TO CONTINUE PLAYING BOWLS in the winter or try Short Mat Bowls for the first time? If so, come along to Hailsham Community Civic Hall on Monday 16th September at 6.30pm & give it a try. First 3 sessions for FREE! Contact Gary Wright Membership Secretary on 07950 962353.
WOODLAND MOMENTS CAMPFIRE SINGALONG & COOKOUT. Mindful Oak Sussex CIC. Bushy Wood Activity Centre, BN27 3LZ. Monday 16 September, 10-12.30pm.An opportunity for people with memory problems to come along with a family member or carer to enjoy a woodland campfire singalong and cookout surrounded by nature’s autumnal delights. Connect with nature, enjoy seasonal activities and meet new people. A warm welcome awaits. £5 per person, contact Samantha Keylock — email: mindfuloaksussex@outlook.com, phone: 07453 917399.
To submit your listing for publication on this page, visit: www.hailsham.news/communitynoticeboard or scan this QR Code. The publishers cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions in this noticeboard.
Library closure as essential improvement work is carried out
BEXHILL Library will be closing for a significant period of time while renovations and improvements are carried out to modernise the popular facility in Western Road.
At the same time, improvements will be made to the layout of the library including improving child and adult numeracy and literacy and increasing digital inclusion.
Enhancements will also be made to book displays, seating areas, study spaces, the children’s area and the public computer layout.
From September, contractors will begin work on the site to undertake essential maintenance to the building.
This will include the replacement and installation of new glazing, repointing works to the external façade as well a range of maintenance to the internal fabric of the building. These internal works include
fire safety compliance, damp proof treatment, redecoration and new carpeting.
Bexhill Library has recently been fitted with 29 solar panels on the rear flat roof to support energy costs, so these works alongside new glazing, will aim to achieve greater energy efficiency within the building.
Work is due to commence on on September 2 and due to the complex nature of the project, the library will need to close for a period of ten weeks to enable safe management of the site from the main contractor.
The programme is expected to be completed on November 23, with the library re-opening on Monday, November 25.
At present the team are exploring whether a “click and collect” service could operate from a local building, but this has not yet been confirmed. Operational teams are working
with the Home Library Service, Bexhill Care in the Community, as well as other regular volunteers and library users to notify them of the planned
by encouraging individuals to take more items, with a longer loan date to
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?
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.
Fish Food for pond goldfish/ Koi or aquariums
See our fabulous new, Garden and Plant Centre with Seeds, Garden Tools, Plants and Compost
FREE Delivery for £15 minimum spend by your local friendly driver or pop into your new Warburtons store in Bexhill.
Foxes on the run as work finally recommences on Bolebrooke Road
WORK has finally restarted to reopen Bolebrooke Road in Bexhill after a group of badgers finally decided to move onto pastures new of their own volition.
The badgers had brought work to a shuddering halt for several weeks after setting up home by creating a series of tunnels below the road’s surface after initial work had been done.
Much debate subsequently ensued as how best to remove the animals safely as they are a protected species, but it then transpired they had become bored with their surroundings and, undercover of the night, they moved on to God knows where.
It was a Eureka moment for the hard-pressed contractors, but not for long because their place was immediately taken over by a group of foxes who took a liking to the vacant premises.
For a short period of time, it appeared there would be another delay but fortuitously they were spooked by the workmen and also headed off in search of
to the relief of Bexhill Conservative Councillor Ian Hollidge. He said: “First and foremost I want
the foxes.
“It has been a long and frustrating process but it was paramount that
which had to be dealt with in the appropriate manner.
“Having gone through the correct channels our patience has now been rewarded and the repairs can be carried out as swiftly as possible.
“I know some people have allegedly voiced their frustration at the workmen on site which is really not on.
“They are carrying out the work in a very professional manner and they deserve praise for that, not verbal abuse.”
Although no timescale has yet been given for the completion of the work, there are no further obstacle to overcome and it is clear that repairs are now in full swing.
The burrows have now been closed off and the surface has been levelled off prior to Tarmac being applied. Once that has been completed, the road will be reopened.
Councillor Hollidge added:
“Everyone is fully committed to repairing roads across Bexhill and we acknowledge there is still plenty of work to be done.
“But a plan of action is in place to repair our roads as swiftly as possible. Yes, potholes are a major issue, but slowly but surely, they are being addressed.
“We are all aware that the delays were frustrating for some residents but it proved to be a tricky situation
“Bolebrooke Road has almost been sorted out now and other road repairs will follow. That is the most important thing for residents.”
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After the badgers and foxes vacated, workmen sealed the burrows to continue the road repairs
BRAND NEW VETERINARY PRACTICE OPENS DOORS IN BEXHILL
A brand-new veterinary practice has opened its doors in Bexhill, Little Common area, offering comprehensive care for companion animals.
The practice, opened by Andrei Danciu and Istvan Makaresz is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals and is equipped with state-ofthe-art facilities and a commitment to providing exceptional veterinary services.
At the heart of the practice is a team of three experienced veterinarians, Andrei, Istvan and Kirsteen, each with many years of clinical practice under their belts.
Their expertise extends to a wide range of companion animals, including dogs, cats, and
rabbits. To complement the veterinary team, the practice employs two experienced veterinary nurses and two friendly receptionists.
Istvan and Andrei opened their first practice in Newhaven together in 2020, which has gone from strength to strength to become the largest independent vets in the area.
They then decided to expand in Bexhill, Andrei’s hometown for the last ten years, after the closure of the previous Greenleaves surgery site on Little Common Road.
The new practice is equipped with modern facilities designed to meet the highest standards of veterinary care. These
include a sterile theatre for surgical procedures, a well-equipped dental suite for routine dental care and advanced procedures, an in-house laboratory for rapid diagnostic testing, and a digital X-ray machine for accurate imaging.
Whether it’s routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, or surgical procedures, the new veterinary practice in Bexhill is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for companion animals.
The team is committed to building strong relationships with pet owners and ensuring that their furry friends receive the best possible treatment.
Record numbers flock to annual car spectacular
Hundreds of petrolheads had a nice day out
The classic Mini
Classic Red Mini Cooper
This magnificent Bentley was once owned by Sir George Martin, also known as ‘The Fifth Beatle’
This little fella was having a nice chillout day
This classic car has a little ‘mini me’ next to it
This Triumph Renown is name Ruby
The classic MG
Vinyl junkies flock to the De La Warr Pavilion to get their annual fix
HUNDREDS of vinyl fans flocked to the De La Warr Pavilion on Saturday, August 17, to seek out bargains and rarities to boost their record collections.
The event, which has been firmly established for a number of years, continues to grow in popularity thanks to the explosion of interest in record collecting among both young and the more mature enthusiasts.
Make no mistake, record collecting can be an expensive business these days, and the chances of finding bargains at your local charity shop are long gone.
Hence the reason why record fairs have become so popular in recent years because they cater for all tastes and budgets.
There are certain albums that will always command premium prices.
For instance, there was a first pressing of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon complete with its original poster and stickers priced at an eye-watering £800 but then again, where are you going to find another one in such pristine condition?
Organised by Revolver Record Fairs, the De La Warr event once again proved to be a roaring success with dealers vying for customers’ attention
as they attempted to sell their wares.
The biggest conundrum for those packed into the auditorium was where to start your search.
There were thousands of records to peruse across numerous stalls, but one had to be equally conscious of budgetary constraints.
In a nutshell, it is easy to get carried away only to find that for the rest of the month, you are going to have to live solely on soup.
One thing was patently clear though.
The vinyl revival continues apace with
no sign of it abating despite it being an expensive hobby.
My partner and I were on the lookout for one particular album, namely a vinyl copy of the increasingly rare Let It Be Naked album by The Beatles which was released in limited numbers just over a decade ago. We had even failed to find a copy of it during a recent holiday in Spain. It retails for about £200, but fortunately, there was no sign of a copy. At least that meant we could eat for the rest of the month.
it up for free and refund your money.
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A MATTER OF TASTE
MR HAU’S: A CHINESE FOOD GEM
We both agreed that Mr Hau’s has retained its exemplary standards and the food remains amongst the best money can buy in East Sussex and is extremely competitively priced considering how
After a nearly 90-minute stay, we both needed to use “the facilities.” Yours truly did, however, learn one valuable lesson while descending the somewhat tricky stairs: “ Don’t be distracted on the
On the wall are several signed pictures
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
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’ (Unknown)
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 their use of water which is very reminiscent of Islamic Gardens. There is a system of rills and large tanks which is so effective and cooling and 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 to be using the space then your feature must be adapted to protect them, be it a raised container rather than one at ground level, a water sculpture with just a fine film of water or a metal grid placed just beneath the water’s surface.
Secondly, how much maintenance are you prepared to put into your feature? 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 help to keep pond water sparkling, but smaller features will need to be hosed down and the water replaced regularly, especially if they are visited by birds. Do remember that the smaller the container, the more rapidly it heats up in the sunshine and the more difficult it is to create a balanced ecosystem.
Sustainability is of prime importance.
Do consider the source of your water and try to recycle if you can. Any type of pool can be fed and topped up with harvested rainwater.
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
home, we have a plain stone bowl outside our window, which we top up daily. It is quite incredible to see how many birds use it.
Small bubble fountains erupting over pebbles are charming and, again can be solar-powered. Simplicity is all, in my opinion.
Water tanks and bowls can be placed on a terrace or within a planting scheme for a dynamic effect. They work well in a gravel garden. Allow easy access for maintenance.
to be reflected down into your garden.
Still, water is also a beautiful surface on which to see raindrops fall — an important consideration in Britain!
The addition of a rippling or bubbling fountain can add much-needed movement to a small space — do check first that the sound doesn’t send you all rushing for the loo every ten minutes.
Choose a style that will complement 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 and so our Wildlife Pond is perfect. We have oxygenating plants which are wholly or partly underwater. They have submerged leaves and perform several important roles in the pond. During the day, they absorb carbon dioxide from the water and give off oxygen. This process conditions and cleans the pond water without the need for chemicals or intervention.
There is a huge Caltha palustris (marsh marigold) at one end of the pond. I was given this when I worked at the Chelsea Physic Garden, and what a delightful, cheering plant it is. It gets going really early in the season with huge gorgeous yellow buttercup-like flowers. The sprawling enthusiastic foliage provides an excellent shelter for all manner of creatures, and moorhens particularly like to nest here. Another useful and beautiful habitat plant is Potentilla palustris (spot the theme, palustris means ‘inhabiting bogs and marshes), which is an attractive native marginal with lobed leaves and deep red star-shaped flowers.
Rills, troughs, tanks, basins and ponds. The choice is yours.
MOBILITY SPECIALISTS IN THE CENTRE OF BEXHILL
Days Mobility stock a wide range of new and used mobility aids from walking sticks to mobility scooters and riser recliner chairs. We also service and repair most mobility aids. Pop in for a
BEXHILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND TOURISM
CHAMBER ECHOES
must now get a grip on the vicious the local community. This is the dark which is 13% higher than the Sussex
OPINION with Kim Mayo
average. That makes us second only to Hastings.
In June 2024 alone there were 91 crimes reported in Bexhill Central ward. Most worryingly 29 of those were for violence and sexual assault. Add to that, sixteen reported assaults and sexual offences in Sidley along with nearly a hundred reports of anti-social behaviour, public order offences, shoplifting and other crimes across Bexhill over the same period. You can perhaps see why we could quickly become a crime-ridden shanty town.
Of course, statistics only reflect reported crimes. They do not show how people have given up on reporting crime because of the lack of a proper response. Who cares about the people harassed by drug dealers around the station or in the alleys off Western Road?
What about the fear felt by shop assistants as they go to work every day knowing they will face aggressive looters who brazenly walk into shops and walk out with hundreds of
pounds worth of goods?
Who cares for the accountants who were mugged in their offices and now have to work behind locked doors? Where is the sympathy for waiting staff that have had violent confrontations with entire families who eat lavish meals and then just abusively push their way out of restaurants without paying?
While the national chains can afford their hundreds of thousands of pounds in “shrinkage” per year and instruct their security guards not to intervene that merely encourages the criminals and thugs to treat Bexhill as a soft target.
In April, the last Government promised action on the plague of blatant shoplifting, so what are our local politicians going to do about it? Tell us now how Bexhill will benefit from “the full force of law” before it is too late and we are abandoned to the mercies of the looters, vandals, organised gangs and drug dealers. What do you think? Email us at: letters@bexhill.news.
DON’T ACCEPT THE PAIN OF LIVING IN MODERN-DAY BRITAIN — JUST HEAD TO SPAIN
WHEN you finally accept with resignation that you are closer to the grave than the cradle it pays to adopt a more sanguine approach to life. In essence, what will be will be.
Let’s face it: calling the small island we inhabit Great Britain is, to all intents and purposes, a misnomer. Yet we live in Britain but it sure as hell is not great.
At this juncture, it should be pointed out that this malaise has nothing to do with party politics. Rather, it is the fact that the country is in absolute meltdown because those who have governed over the past decade and their recent replacements spend so much time bickering across the dispatch box in the House of Commons that they fail to realise all they achieve is posing more questions than definitive and effective solutions.
The cost of living continues to spiral, crime is at a record high, our prisons are bursting at the seams, and nobody dares mention the small boats crisis for fear of being branded a racist.
This is why so many of us go into “ostrich mode” … burying our heads in the sand and pretending all is hunky dory, which it most certainly is not.
summed up the state of play perfectly by saying: Britain is doomed”. By and large that assessment is spot on, sadly. Don’t get me wrong; I love my country but for what it was, not what it has become, which is a shambolic mess.
and out of the country for a short break to discover how the other half lives. And you know what? They have got it right, and we have got it fundamentally wrong. First, we walked into Bexhill, a trip that took twice as long as it should have due
to having to avoid the piles of dog mess that the owners had decided it was too much of an effort to clear up after their miscreant mutts.
To make matters worse, I nearly broke my ankle, tripping over one of several uneven paving stones before somehow arriving in one piece at the local travel agents to pick up an array of brochures.
Having perused them at length we set off the next day by car to book our four-day break to Seville in Spain but this time drove into town at a steady 12 miles an hour to avoid breaking an axle on one of the myriad potholes populating our streets.
And so it came to pass that we boarded an EasyJet flight from Gatwick after being frisked by some miserable old git at the airport and then told our suitcase was three centimetres too large. Hopefully, nirvana awaited, and you know what? It did.
The average temperature during our stay was 35ºC, and if that is due to global warming, then bring it on. Every Spanish person we met was friendly, and despite the language barrier, they were more than happy to help. The streets were clean, and hiring a
taxi to get around the city was as cheap as chips.
The average price of a meal for both of us was €12, a class of wine (large) €4 and a packet of fags €5.50.
Before the anti-smoking brigade has a go, let me point out I have been addicted to nicotine since I was 14, but my favourite brand (Camel Blue) cost £17 in the UK, so I filled my boots (or rather lungs), and they tasted great.
To put it bluntly, four days was never going to be enough. I wanted to live there forever, and if I had enough cash in the bank, I would.
Sadly, though, all good things must come to an end, and the time passed far too swiftly. Home time beckoned, and our hearts collectively sank as we boarded the flight back to Blighty.
Now don’t get me wrong, there is still much to admire about our way of life but let me tell you this; a day’s interspersed with a siesta, sangria and Tapas definitely appeals.
Maybe my boss’s media empire will one day expand as far as Spain and I can then launch an edition of Seville News. Now there’s a thought although I will need to brush up on my Spanish! Viva España!
Plaza de Espana, Seville. Photo: Sean Pavone, envato
SOARING HIGH: MY MICROLIGHT ADVENTURES
GROUP EDITOR, PAUL GIBSON, REPORTS ON HIS ONGOING TRAINING AS A STUDENT PILOT FLYING FROM DEANLAND IN EAST SUSSEX
THANKS to the incredible weather conditions we’ve been experiencing for the past month, it’s given me a good opportunity to get some hours in behind the stick in the fantastic Ikarus C42 Microlight.
In my article last month, I wrote how I was thrown in the deep end (in my opinion anyway) and completed my first take-off. I knew from that moment that I would be doing each and every take-off from now on — which has certainly been the case.
It’s now standard practice to
we get to the aircraft which include a full safety walkaround (if the first flight of the day), refuelling and completing the long list of pre-flight checks in the cockpit.
So, we’ve got to the point where my instructor, Luke, only touches the controls just after take-off, and I’m doing the rest, which I feel is a long way than I expected to be at this early stage. I’m not going to lie and say it’s an easy process, but I do understand that it’ll get easier with time as it’s simply a process — and with any process, it should get easier the more it’s done.
When we live in such a stunning part of the world, it’s sometimes disappointing when I can’t sit back and enjoy the panoramic views across the coastline - but I’m here to learn how to fly and
The pleasure flights will come when I hopefully get licensed!
of climb, and best glide speed - although basic principles of flying, it’s essential to know the aircraft’s capabilities and how to get the best from it in different scenarios.
Next lesson concentrated on turns in level flight. Sounds really easy but when a plane turns, it creates drag therefore
enjoy cycling. If you are looking at being in the next Games however now’s a good time to start training by getting on your bike. Even if you are not selected you could still have lots of fun dreaming as you cycle along the way.
August’s Olympics were a fantastic time to watch our elite athletes perform, competing and trying their best for themselves and Team GB.
excitement in Olympians wining
meaning they have beaten the best in the word and sharing in their joy gives us all a sense of pride.
Competition cycling is not for everyone. You may not be able to beat the best but we can all try our personal best.
huge amount of lovely people who own planes and fly from there regularly. As a member, it’s nice just to pop down, soak up the peaceful atmosphere and chat to some of the other students and instructors.
This month sees its annual ‘fly-in’ fundraiser, which supports the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Charity. It’s a day where pilots from all over literally descend on Deanland, and it makes for a great day out for plane geeks like me. If the weather is good, I’m sure I’ll publish some photos in next month’s column.
Now is a really good time to book your experience flight from Deanland before the winter sets in. Just give Shellie a ring on 07519 527597 and mention ‘Newspaper Ad’ and she’ll give you a generous £10 discount off. We seriously have some incredible scenery which must be seen from above — and it’s also a fantastic gift for a loved one. If you’re anything like me, it’ll also give you the bug to fly even more.
equestrian, or rowing. We are good as a country at sitting down pedalling and pushing ourselves on two wheels.
Anybody can join in the fun of cycling, bikes can be adapted to suit different abilities.
Whether it’s on the track or the road, two wheels or three, para cycling offers something for everyone who wants to get
It starts with getting a bike, sitting in the saddle and pushing off embracing our beautiful coast and countryside of which we are blessed in Sussex.
The 2024 Paralympics got underway and one can only admire people who are showing their ability to do their best while
Cycling takes many forms and you may not want to be speeding around the velodrome at 40-50 mph. Life is about what you are able to do.
Most fit and able cyclists could achieve 30mph at a push, even on our Sussex roads. Most of us however are content with about 10-15mph.
You may not be able to be the best but we can all try our personal best, which is true whatever you do in life.
Break dancing is something which appeared in this year’s Olympics, quite a breakthrough, what next is another subject. Next month we will be focusing on how to buy the perfect bike.
The club’s two Ikarus C42’s ready to go in the early sun
Former Olympic gold medalist Chris Boardman (right)
Get on your bike and enjoy the warm weather before winter arrives
BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN COUNCIL UPDATE
BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN COUNCIL HOSTS LARGEST BEXHILL DAY CELEBRATION YET
month of August has been a whirlwind of activity for Bexhillon-Sea Town Council, culminating in the much-anticipated annual celebration of Bexhill Day. This year, on 17th August, the town came alive in a spectacular display of community spirit, pride, and excitement, as residents and visitors gathered to partake in what has become the largest and most vibrant Bexhill Day in the event’s history. Town Crier, Jon Bartholomew, kicked off the proceedings.
The introduction of a brand-new Health and Wellbeing Marketplace was one of the standout additions this year. With stalls extending all along East Parade, the marketplace was a hub of activity throughout the day, offering a diverse array of services and information from local groups dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and personal growth within the community.
Visitors to the marketplace were treated to an array of opportunities
to engage with local clubs, fitness instructors, wellness experts, and hobby groups, all eager to share their passions and encourage residents to explore new interests. From Groove Bexhill’s amazing dancing “flash mob” to Bexhill Wheelers bicycle servicing to Bexhill Bowls Club’s temporary bowling green there was something for everyone. With nutrition workshops to craft activities and mindfulness sessions, the marketplace truly showed off our town’s vibrant community.
Complementing the marketplace was a stunning display of classic cars, presented by the Bexhill 100 Motoring Club. This dazzling showcase featured a wide range of beautifully maintained vintage vehicles including Dave Dickinson-Smith’s (Dickie) original Bexhill born and bred Mini, each one a testament to the rich motoring heritage of Bexhill-on-Sea. The classic cars, which gleamed under the summer sun, were a particular highlight for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The display also drew a significant crowd, adding to the diverse attractions on offer and further elevating the prestige of Bexhill Day 2024.
Music was another integral part of the celebrations, with the Coronation Bandstand serving as the heart of the event’s musical offerings. Managed by Bexhill Heritage, the bandstand played host to a variety of performances by
talented local artists, whose music filled the air and created a lively, festive atmosphere. The Royal British Legion Concert Band performed afolk bands to solo performers, the diverse lineup ensured there was something to suit every musical taste, and the energy from the bandstand radiated throughout the event. Attendees couldn’t help but be swept up in the joyous spirit of the day, with many dancing, singing along, or simply enjoying the vibrant sounds as they explored the various attractions.
As the day progressed, one of the most poignant moments came with the procession along the promenade. This solemn and respectful event featured the Royal British Legion Standard Bearers and veterans from Bexhill-on-Sea’s branches, along with the Town Mayor, Mace Bearer and Mayoral Cadet who marched with pride and dignity in honour of those who have served the country.
The procession was more than just a display; it was an emotional reminder of the sacrifices made by so many, and it served to connect the past with the present, highlighting
the importance of remembrance and community solidarity. For many, this was a highlight of the day, reinforcing the strong sense of identity and shared history that defines Bexhill-on-Sea.
As the festivities of this remarkable day began to settle, residents and visitors alike were treated to a truly breathtaking spectacle—a fly-past by the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster Bomber. The aircraft, a symbol of British resilience and heroism, soared majestically across the seafront, its presence evoking awe and pride in all who watched. The roar of its engines echoed through the air, marking a powerful and fitting conclusion to the official Bexhill Day celebrations.
As the evening set in, many attendees made their way to the De La Warr Pavilion lawns for a community gathering to watch a free outdoor screening of the beloved family film Toy Story Two. The screening provided a perfect way to wind down after the day’s excitement, with families spreading out on blankets and enjoying the classic film under the stars. Laughter and cheers from the
audience filled the night air, bringing the community together for one last shared experience and ending the day
Overall, Bexhill Day 2024 was an unparalleled success. The event saw a huge turnout, with residents and visitors coming together to celebrate the unique character and spirit of Bexhill-on-Sea. The Town Council’s efforts to introduce new elements to the event clearly paid off, with the Health and Wellbeing Marketplace and the classic car showcase proving to be major draws. The combination of new and traditional attractions, coupled with the community’s enthusiastic participation, ensured that this year’s Bexhill Day will be remembered as one of the best in the
In addition to the Bexhill Day celebrations, the Mayor of Bexhillon-Sea has been actively engaged throughout August, attending a variety of local events, including Bexhill Carnival, Southlands Place Summer Fete, the first spade in the ground at the Beach Garden and Bexhill open bowls tournament The Mayor’s presence at these events underscores the Town Council’s commitment to supporting and participating in the life of the community. If you would like the Mayor to attend your upcoming event, please visit the Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council website to fill out a mayoral visit form.
Lastly, in other important town matters, the Planning and Development Committee convened for an extraordinary meeting on Friday, 9th August 2024, to discuss the appeal for the Bellway Development on Turkey Road. The meeting saw a strong turnout from residents eager to voice their opinions on the proposed development next toe the Brick Works. The chair of the Planning and Development Committee, Cllr Connor Winter, had been nominated to attend the appeal hearing, where he represented the views and concerns of Bexhill-on-Sea’s residents, ensuring that their voices were heard at the highest levels.
LAURIE’S POEM CORNER
If we consider world news over the last months with wars, strife and conflicts abounding and, even very recently, riots and unrest on our own streets here in the UK, we could all be forgiven for wondering just what is going on and where it will it all end.
However, life and the world go on, somehow, even in the most tragic and impoverished parts of the globe, so perhaps we should count our blessings and reflect on times past.
To this end, I offer a poem this month that I wrote, almost unbelievably, in about 2017 and featured in my 6th book, “Poet Reveals All” (yes, the naked cover book), and this poem offers hope, confidence and peace as it looks back over history, what has been endured, and where we are now and is entitled “Don’t Write it Off” appeals for hope and consideration.
DON’T WRITE IT OFF
I suppose I now have a mission
With my written thoughts in verse, For as I scan the worldwide scene I fear it’s all getting worse.
For it seems there are wars everywhere
With the world once more on the brink.
So great leaders please take care
And give lots of time to think,
Of amazing wonders, good, and values
At new risk from conceited power. Which can lead to mass destruction
In much less than an hour.
Of course there’s been great wars before
And yet somehow we still survived.
Learning from the mushroom cloud That insured we have now arrived,
At a state of chilling acceptance
Of just what harm man can do.
But now it seems we must again Test out if it’s all true!
So what use then is my puny verse
That on a world scale’s just a jot?
But for me it’s hugely important,
To give our opinions than to just not
Do anything or our make a protest,
As generations have done before. When on monumental occasions It did bring an end to war.
So I will scribe away my thoughts
To let my feelings be known,
As you won’t succeed, if you don’t try Thus I may not stand alone!
PATIENT, LADY PIANO TEACHER BASED IN HAILSHAM
32 years teaching experience
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According to our recent reader survey, an average of 2.2 people read each copy of Bexhill News. If you printed 20,000 business cards, it would cost around £160, that’s more the cost of an advert in this newspaper!
Driving instructor waiting lists leave learners in the lurch
WITH recent figures showing there are still long waits for driving tests, new research has revealed that even finding a driving instructor might prove difficult for many learners.
The UK’s largest pre-17 driving school, Young Driver, questioned 150 driving instructors and found that two-thirds (67%) currently have a waiting list for on-the-road lessons.
Although the average wait time is two months, 7% said learners would be waiting over six months to get a lesson with 15% said they had waiting lists of over four months.
Dacia Spring is ‘Bargain of the Year’
THE All-New Dacia Spring is a big deal in every sense after being judged ‘Best Car Bargain of the Year 2024/2025’ by the independent organisation, Best Cars of the Year.
When asked about the main reasons for wait times, 70% of instructors said the lack of driving test availability was leaving learners in limbo for longer,
surge in bookings this year, as parents look to get youngsters learning to drive before they reach their 17th birthday, with over 50,000 lessons
Comprising of industry-leading car designers, engineers and executives together with motorsport icons and automotive media professionals, the Best Cars of the Year judging panel singled out the pure-electric All-New Spring for its value
A star of the Best Cars of the Year stand at the recent British Motor Show, the All-New Dacia Spring is priced at only £14,995 on-the-road, making it the UK’s most affordable new electric car. Ahead of the first customer deliveries later this year, orders are now open and static leftfor an affordable, practical efficient electric vehicle. It’s especially suited to urban environments and short to
compact 26.8 kWh battery can be charged from 20% to 100% on a suitable domestic outlet in less than
Dealership provides eco airshow transport
PILOTS, VIPs and Dignitaries were able to travel in style and with zero emissions during the recent Eastbourne International Airshow. Birchwood Group, which operates Skoda, Ford, Kia and Mitsubishi dealerships in Eastbourne, provided the travel to ensure the safe delivery of pilots from a number of airfields across Sussex in a number of newly released EV models.
As an event sponsor, Birchwood used the new Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Kia EV6, Kia Niro and the Skoda Enyaq VRS which are all fully electric and helped the airshow to lower its carbon footprint.
New Audi A5 to replace A4 models
AUDI has announced the popular A4 model is now a thing of the past after 30 years of service.
Powered by a new generation of ultra-efficient combustion engines, the new A5 and S5 Saloon and Avant models have been revealed with ultra-efficient engines and new specifications.
Priced from £41,950 (OTR) and £43,850 (OTR) respectively, the latest A5 Saloon and Avant ranges are now available to order, with the first examples due to reach UK customers in November.
All A5 variants will initially be available with a choice of Sport, S line and Edition 1 specification, while the S5 Saloon and Avant will be offered exclusively in Edition 1 form. The range will be powered by three state-of-the-art TFSI petrol and TDI diesel engines - two 2.0-litre TFSI units with 150PS and 204PS and a 2.0-litre TDI with 204PS. In the new S5 Saloon and S5 Avant, a newly-developed 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine with optimised combustion technology and 367PS replaced the previous 3.0-litre TDI unit.
Harwood leads sizzling summer for BRT runners
Matthews took a trip to the home of park running, Bushey Park, then with Megan Matthews travelled to Cirencester, Orpington and finished with a free cool beer at Lewes. Joanna Swap took a tour to the historic town of Oxford and returned to Ashford, Kent where the “Heat” was on.
member was ready for a challenge this summer — and she got one as she self-navigated breathtaking views to conquer some on the highest mountains in South Wales.
Zak Overfield certainly tested his endurance when he took on the epic 100k ultra adventure Race to the Stones, which included a mix of woodland, riverside and ridge trail. The trail ventured into the heart of the stunning Cotswolds and finished at Avebury Stones.
BRT’s next club runners took on a 20-miler as they entered the High Weald Challenge. Peter Newstead
distance ironman became the goal for David Palmer, who battled the elements and completed a great race.
He was joined by Jason Earle-Henson, who completed the Sprint Tri-athlon in 01:27.37. Martyn Angus took on the prestigious Outlaw Nottingham triathlon course as an individual entry and secured an incredible finish of 15:18:33. Evey race involved a swim, bike ride and a run that aimed to test the ability of each of our triathletes.
The BigHeat — Hindhead Common in Surrey was a big event to remember for Dagmara Ginter as she took on her first marathon.
the stunning trail course took Ginter a distance of 27.23 miles. The Kent and Woodchurch 10-miler was the next challenge for Michael Pain, who clocked 01:10:19.
Tempo Last Leg Relays provided friendly competition and excitement for local running clubs. This year runners were faced with the extra challenge of 20mph headwinds but performances were still fantastic for the BRT’s men team, who came a fabulous third.
On the evening of Wednesday, August 14, the picturesque course around Bates Green Farm and the Bluebell Walk became the running track for 68 teams from local running
four, competing in five categories: Senior Women, Senior Men, Veteran Women, Veteran Men and Mixed. There were cheers all round for BRT’s senior women category who triumphed with first place.
This summer park running was on a high with Cathy Bate smashing 25O parkruns and sharing this joyous milestone at Eastbourne. Not far behind on 195 is John Brooker with Alison Brooker climbing up on 156, while Stuart Robertson and Paul Zipperlen celebrated their 50th parkruns.
If that wasn’t enough, many BRT runners like the additional challenges of alphabeteer, aiming to get different
Geoff and Amanda Tondeur hit Great Yarmouth North Beach for their destination. And talking of destinations, Alison Brooker has visited 53 different locations and John Brooker is on 66. The BRT takeover was also a day to remember where everyone was able to cover all the volunteer roles, giving the Core team a well-earned rest.
Bexhill Day — “Celebrating all things Bexhill-on-Sea” — gave opportunity for club members to connect with the local community and contributing to the wellbeing roadshow provided a chance to promote club activities.
If you have ever thought about running with a friendly group of likeminded people, please go to the BRT webpage for more information for both adult and junior membership. www.bexhillrunnerstriathletes.co.uk
Polegrove pile up the titles in considerable style
POLEGROVE Bowls Club Ladies wrapped up their county competitions by completing a title double.
They had a good 40-22 win against Norfolk Ladies in the Double Rink. Rosamund Wood, Lorraine Hume, Margaret Adcock and Rachel Mackriell won 22-10, which meant the team of Nicki Dale, Jo Hearsum, Nina Allbut and Denise Hodd did not need to play their final ends as they were leading 18-12.
In the Top Club, Polegrove continued their good form by beating Burgess Hill in all disciplines to retain their title.
Rachel Mackriell won 21-9, Lyndsey Jamison and Denise Hodd
competition.
And along with Allbut and Hodd, they successfully defended their Triples title, again beating Eastbourne 17-4.
Margaret Adcock joined them in the Senior Fours to win 21-8 and qualify for the National finals. And Lyndsey Jamison joined the team to win the county Fours title 21-20.
Rosamund Wood and Denise were runners-up in the county Pairs, losing 23-10.
In the National Top Club competition, Polegrove lost to a strong Appleyard team with only a win in the triples.
At the Nationals in Leamington Spa, Rachel Mackriell had a superb
run representing Sussex in the Women’s Senior Singles (over 55) championship.
Mackriell won 21-19 after 25 ends against Julie Spice (Suffolk) in the preliminary round, then followed up with a 21-15 triumph over Sue Davies of Broadway (Worcestershire) after 24 ends in round one.
A 17-16 win saw Mackriell triumph in the quarters against Sharon Cobb (New Lount, Leicestershire) after 25 ends but her run ended in the last four against Caroline Campion (Banbury Central, Oxfordshire) with a 21-16 loss after 25 ends.
Mackriell bowed out to Diane Double (Sutton, Surrey) in the Champions of Champions last-32 stage.
triumphed
Margaret Adcock and Nina Allbut were 20-12 victors.
Mackriell beat her Eastbourne opponent 14-12 in the Two Woods
Polegrove Ladies
Andrea Harwood, Beacon Way Ultra
Zak Overfield, Race to the Stones 100K
BRT Club Runners at the Hailsham Relays Event
Mandie Henderson, David Rogers, Simon Leonard, Syreeta Watts and Anja Cedilnik, High Weald Challenge
Cathy Bate, 250 Parkrun celebration
Sport
“We want to finish as high as we can and at the moment we do find ourselves in a battle, but I have faith in the group that once we get it right we can start to pick up points and that will breed more confidence going into each game.
“We have some young boys in the group, which is great, and they are learning and have to learn fast. And
Common fixtures Aug/Sept: AFC
Aug
(3-0), Crawley Down (3-0), Haywards Heath (3-0) and FA Cup opponents Eastbourne Town (2-0) previously in August.
Varndeanians (away,
31); AFC Uckfield (home, Aug 3, PB Cup); Wick (home, Aug 7); Saltdean (home, Aug 14); Crowborough Ath (away, Aug 24); Eastbourne Utd (home, Sept 28). Russell Eldridge
Evan Archibald is applauded off last season. Photo: Joe Knight
